Author: Maher Khatib

Current existing-home sales beat estimates, with activity ↑~2% MoM but ↓~2% yearly, showing better-than-expected closings even as the broader pace stayed below year-earlier levels.
The sales snapshot likely lagged current borrowing costs, and the outlook pointed to some further market softening ahead, though the shift was described as manageable.
Current US housing inventory stands at 1.6M homes, still below the 2M to 2.5M range seen as a more traditional supply level.
Even so, inventory has recovered from extreme lows, price growth has slowed, wages are outpacing home-price growth, and buyers now have more leverage.
The market was described as healthy between buyers and sellers, with a gradual return toward normal conditions expected into 2027 and beyond.

In the current US market, existing-home sales reached a ~4M annual pace, up modestly MoM while remaining slightly below the yearly level.
Median price reached $417.5K, extending a long yearly gain streak, while inventory rose to 1.6M homes and supply stayed at 4.8 mo.
Closings reflected contracts signed when rates were lower, but financing costs later moved above 7%, making budgeting more important for buyers nationwide currently.
First-time buyers took 31% of sales, cash deals eased, and single-family homes outperformed condos as listings sat longer on market in the current environment.
For the rest of 2026, the market was expected to stay slow, with flatter pricing and more negotiating room as conditions gradually favored buyers.

Monson gives buyers more elbow room in the hills, with a median near $419K and yards that often stretch to actual acreage.
A 2-mi loop climbs a local mountain to a 1,227-ft lookout over the valley, making repeat hikes a favorite for plenty of locals.
A local orchard and winery helps fill fall weekends with apple picking, flower fields, and tastings, adding a seasonal draw close to home.
Near the center, a local park offers a playground and two soccer fields, while the town library sits a 10-min walk away.
For buyers seeking a first home, Monson still offers room to start small and grow, with space, trails, and nearby everyday amenities.