National Housing Inventory Up Two Percent in October

Oct 31, 2018

Do you agree with me that today’s housing supply has narrowed, and mortgage demand is uncertain

The national housing inventory grew by two percent, or 25,000 listings, in October, according to new data from Realtor.com. This marks the first time in four years that the inventory level increased.

The fastest inventory growth was found in condominiums and townhomes, which are now up seven percent year-over-year, compared to single family homes which are up one percent. The five markets that saw the largest inventory jumps were San Jose, Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego and Nashville, all of which posted increases of 32 percent or more.

The increased volume of new listings in October were eight percent less expensive than existing homes for-sale. During October, the national median listing price remained at $295,000, a seven percent increase year-over-year but lower than last year's 10 percent increase.

"Buyers have been struggling for four years to find homes in their price range, while dealing with bidding wars and multiple offer situations," said Danielle Hale, Chief Economist for Realtor.com. "The inventory increase will not solve the problem overnight, but it should provide some relief to those still in the market, especially if the growth we're seeing in more affordable homes and condos holds steady. However, affordability is still an issue with increasing mortgage rates and prices keeping many would-be buyers on the sidelines."

About the author

Phil Hall

Link copied

Published

Oct 31, 2018

Industry News

Newfi And Addy AI Announce Partnership

Newfi and Addy AI today announced a collaboration focused on the continued evolution of artificial intelligence in mortgage lending

Newfi and Addy AI today announced a collaboration focused on the continued evolution of artificial intelligence in mortgage lending.Newfi has built innovative lending products and a modern approach to the mortgage market. As the industry evolves, the company continues to exp...

Analysis and Data

Smaller Down Payments Give Buyers More Room, But Rates Limit The Savings

The typical down payment fell 9% from a year ago, while shifting market conditions are giving originators different affordability conversations across the country

Homebuyers are putting less money down than they were a year ago, another sign that increased inventory and greater negotiating room are changing the purchase market.The typical down payment fell to $27,100 in the second quarter of 2026, the lowest second-quarter dollar amou...

Nov

Pasadena, CA

More from

Industry News

CHLA: More Freddie Mac MBS Buying Could Narrow Mortgage Spreads

Trade group estimates greater Freddie participation could compress spreads another 10 to 12 basis points as Fannie has taken the lead in GSE mortgage-bond buying

Industry News

Sep 23, 2026

Early Loan-Limit Race Splits Into Three Tiers

Lenders are now offering $845,000, $847,440, or $850,000 before FHFA sets the official 2027 limits

Industry News

Sep 23, 2026

Better, Garg Clash Over Claimed 46% Shareholder Support

Better disputes its former CEO’s preliminary consent count as the two sides trade accusations and an Oct. 2 target date approaches

C-Suite Strategies

Sep 23, 2026

Fannie Changes How Rent From A Former Home Counts

Fannie now prohibits leases for departing residences and permits market-analysis tools instead of Form 1007, creating a key documentation difference from Freddie Mac

Regulation and Compliance

Sep 22, 2026

MPF Expands Eligibility For Manufactured And Renovation Loans

The Mortgage Partnership Finance Program has expanded MPF Traditional eligibility for affordable loans, manufactured homes, renovations, and lender-funded assistance

Industry News

Sep 22, 2026