Fewer Seller’s Markets as Inventory & Demand Decline
MARKET IN A MINUTE NATIONAL VIEW
Housing Market
Sales of new single-family homes dropped 13.7% in May and 6.3% from a year ago, well below both the six-month and the one-year average.
However, pending home sales picked up in May after a sharp decline a month earlier, with contract signings rising 1.8% as inventory levels ease.
Home mortgage applications dropped 0.4% last week compared with the previous week, but were 11% higher than the same week a year ago.
Economy
Readings show that in June, consumers grew less pessimistic about the economy and inflation as global trade tensions showed signs of easing.
Although new unemployment claims decreased last week, continuing claims increased to 1.97 million, the highest level since November 2021.
Some Fed members have come out saying they would like to see the Fed cut policy rates as soon as next month’s meeting, if inflation stays low.
TENNESSEE PENDING HOME SALES UP IN MAY 2025
by Phil Hall | June 26, 2025
Pending home sales during May were up by 1.8% from April and up 1.1% from one year earlier, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
All four regions experienced month-over-month increases while contract signings were up year-over-year only in the Midwest and South – the Northeast and West reported declines during that period.
“Consistent job gains and rising wages are modestly helping the housing market,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Hourly wages are increasing faster than home prices. However, mortgage rate fluctuations are the primary driver of homebuying decisions and impact housing affordability more than wage gains.”
Yun added, “The Northeast’s housing shortage is boosting home prices, with more than a quarter of homes selling above list price. Conversely, more inventory in the South gives home buyers greater negotiation power. Price declines in the South should be considered temporary given the region’s strong job creation.”
TIPS TO SELL YOUR HOME IN THE SUMMER
Summer in Arizona isn’t just about fun in the sun, pool parties and triple-digit temps — it’s also one of the busiest seasons for home buying and selling real estate. School is out and families are looking to make their move before the new school year starts. But, just because it’s a busy season doesn’t mean your home will automatically get multiple offers and go under contract right away …
It’s HOT literally and figuratively and the way your home is positioned is the ultimate strategy.
Here are a few tips to consider when selling your home.
STEP Up the Curb Appeal
In the desert, your home’s “great” first impression is the best way for buyers to actually picture themselves living there and making memories. If you have a burnt, scorched front yard … well, they may just drive by and not even enter the home. The summer curb appeal isn’t just about fresh paint and a clean walkway; it’s about presenting a fresh, rejuvenated landscape & hard scape that brings life to the home not just a plain “desert landscape” full of rocks.
Replace or refresh any tired-looking desert landscaping.
Add seasonal color with potted succulents or drought-tolerant blooms like lantana.
Power wash your driveway and front walkway — it makes everything feel brighter and cleaner.
Keep your lawn (if you have one) trimmed and well-watered, or consider artificial turf for a green, low-maintenance look.
Keep the TEMPS Cool Inside
Buyers are walking in from 110°++ heat. The moment they step inside, they should feel like they’ve entered a luxury resort — calm, cool, and comfortable.
Keep the thermostat a few degrees lower than usual during showings. Yes, your electric bill might spike temporarily — but one extra day on the market costs more.
Use ceiling fans to create soft air movement.
Close blinds or shades before showings to block the blazing sun while still letting natural light in.
Light citrus or fresh linen-scented candles can trigger positive emotions.
The Goal is to keep the buyers buyers lingering in your home for as long as possible while they picture themselves living there.
Highlight Summer Features
Does your home have a pool? Covered patio? Misting system? Energy-efficient windows? These are not just features they’re a lifestyle.
Stage your backyard as a summer escape: set the patio table, add string lights.
If you have a pool, make sure it’s crystal clear, add loungers or colorful floats, bright beach towels on chairs to say, “Let’s Cool Off & Take a Dip”.
Emphasize solar panels, low utility bills, and insulation upgrades so that buyers are very aware of summer operating costs.
Quick Tip: Include utility bill averages in your listing especially if low.
Showing Times
Not all times of day are created equal during an Arizona summer.
Avoid midday showings when buyers are hot, irritable and in a rush.
Target early mornings, evenings, and weekends when people are more likely to take their time.
Consider twilight open houses with refreshments and backyard lighting to create a memorable experience.
If your home shows well at dusk, take advantage of that ambiance.
Price it to Sell / Not Just Show
The summer market moves fast, but that doesn’t mean you can over price. Be realistic. Buyers are searching all the time & looking at a myriad of online outlets. And, they’re comparing your home to 10 others they’ve seen that weekend and 4 others at Open Houses.
Work with a local seasoned agent. .
Price competitively from the 1st day on market.
If your home isn’t getting action in the first 7–10 days, the buyers are speaking, its adjustment time.
Remember: The 1st impression & 1st 10 days on the market IS optimum.
If you’re thinking about selling this summer, let’s connect. You’ll receive a complimentary valuation of your home along with a custom strategy that really fits YOU.
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