What did existing-home sales look like in November?

Sales of existing homes increased in two of four regions across the nation in November compared to the previous month, a report released today by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) said.

It was reported that existing-home sales, which the NAR defines as completed transactions for properties that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, increased as much as 0.5% from October.

Compared to the previous month, the Northeast noticed the greatest increase of existing-home sales in November of 2025, up 4.1% from last month and unchanged from the year before.

Total homes for sale at the end of November were 1.43 million units, down 5.9% from October and up 7.5% from November 2024. With more options on the market, potential buyers have a better chance to search for their dream home than they did last year.

A continuing drop in mortgage interest rates was a factor in the sales increases, the NAR suggested, but cautioned that buyers might have more than rates to contend with.

"Existing-home sales increased for the third straight month due to lower mortgage rates this autumn," NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said. "However, inventory growth is beginning to stall. With distressed property sales at historic lows and housing wealth at an all-time high, homeowners are in no rush to list their properties during the winter months."

Which regions showed changes in pending home sales?

Two of the four regions the NAR tracks in the U.S. showed increases in sales of existing homes in November, the NAR said.

The report expressed some optimism that buyers will be able to afford homes.

The report expressed some optimism that buyers will be able to afford homes.

“Wage growth is outpacing home price gains, which improves housing affordability. Still, future affordability could be hampered if housing supply fails to keep pace with demand,” Yun said.

Fall and winter typically see a drop in existing home prices. On top of that, mortgage rates have seen a steady decline since May. With mortgage rates dropping and winter in full swing, it might be the right time for buyers to start looking for a new home.

Did mortgage rates show any change?

According to data from Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 6.21% as of Dec. 18. That’s down from 6.22% one week ago and down significantly from 6.72% one year ago.

A continued reduction in mortgage interest rates will likely be a welcome sign to prospective homebuyers. A decrease in mortgage rates could also signal a continuing thaw in the housing market as we reach the end of the year.

Are you ready to start seeing the benefits of homeownership? Apply for a mortgage pre-approval and begin your journey toward your dream home with Rate! A pre-approval shows buyers and real estate agents that you’re serious and gives you an idea of how much of a mortgage you’re likely to get approved for.

*National average rates from Freddie Mac as of Dec. 18, 2025, are not advertised rates from Rate.

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