If you’ve read the latest housing headlines, you’ve probably seen some conflicting takes.

And when you zoom out, it makes sense as to why: A new Zillow report found that, in half of the country’s largest metros, home values rose over the past year. In the other half, they fell.
So today, we’re breaking down what’s happening nationally, and more importantly, how it compares to what we’re seeing here in Temescal Valley.

National Market Trends.


At the national level, home values have barely moved, rising just 0.2% over the past year.
• Home values rose in 25 major markets, mostly in the Midwest and Northeast. Cleveland (+4.7%) and Hartford (+4.5%) led the pack.


• Home values fell in 25 markets, especially in the South and West. Tampa (-6.2%), Austin (-6%), and Miami (-4.6%) saw the steepest declines.


Aside from home prices, here’s what’s happening across the country:


• Sellers cut prices on 27.4% of listings, the highest rate since tracking began in 2018.


• Homes are lingering on the market longer, with a median 60 days on market, the slowest July in over a decade.


• Mortgage costs are down slightly, about $19 per month compared to last year, but still nearly $1,000 higher than before the pandemic.


That means affordability remains a challenge, even in markets where buyers have the upper hand.



What’s Happening in Temescal Valley.

National trends don’t always tell the full story. Here in Temescal Valley:
• Median home price: Temescal Valley median sale price: $700,000 (down 0.71% year-over-year) (Dec 2025)

• Price cuts: ~15.5% (about 28 price-reduced listings out of 181 active listings).

• Days on market: Homes here are selling in 62 days (median, Dec 2025) on average, compared to the national 60-day median.

In Temescal Valley, prices are essentially flat to slightly down year-over-year, and the market pace is running about in line with the national 60-day median. Translation: buyers have more time and negotiating room than the ‘hot’ years—but well-priced, well-presented homes still sell.



What It Means for Buyers.


Nationally, buyers are seeing more homes sit longer and more price cuts. In Temescal Valley, buyers are seeing more choice and less urgency, and they’re negotiating more often—while the best homes (great condition + correct pricing) can still attract competition.


If you’re looking to buy, here’s our advice:


• Watch for price reductions. It’s a sign sellers are willing to negotiate.


• Get pre-approved so you’re ready to act when the right home hits the market.


• Don’t assume headlines about “falling prices” apply here. Check the local stats.


What It Means for Sellers

The national data is clear: Homes that are overpriced are sitting. Homes that are priced right are still selling.

In Temescal Valley, properly priced homes can go pending in roughly 35 days, while homes that miss the mark often push past the 60+ day range.


If you’re thinking of selling, remember:


• Pricing competitively from the start is more important than ever.

• Buyers are savvy, with plenty of data at their fingertips.


• Making your home shine online with great photos, 3D tours, or floor plans can help you stand out.


The Bottom Line


Kara Ng, a senior economist at Zillow, summed it up best: “Perhaps more than ever, whether it’s a good time to buy depends on where you live.”


The housing market is split nationally, but what really matters is what’s happening locally. If you’re thinking of buying or selling in Temescal Valley, the numbers show that strategy matters more than ever.


Pricing, timing, and presentation will determine who wins in this market.fers, and ultimately, a stronger negotiation position.