July 2026 housing market tilts toward sellers despite buyer drought

Redfin’s July 2026 snapshot shows a buyer drought and a seller-heavy national picture: about 967,000 active US buyers—the lowest since Redfin began tracking—roughly 34% fewer buyers than sellers, with mortgage rates at a year-high that keep monthly payments uncomfortable. Nationwide, sellers outnumbered buyers by about 51.3%, though most metros (39 of 49) were still ranked as buyer’s markets. Nassau County, NY led as the strongest seller’s market, while Texas Sun Belt metros (Houston, San Antonio, Austin) posted 100%+-plus seller advantages as new homebuilding comes online. In short, affordability pressures and rising rates are cooling demand, making many markets tougher for buyers and, in some areas, more favorable to sellers.