Priya Jacob Realtor

Fed Raises Key Rate to 3.75%-4%
The Federal Reserve has just raised its key rate by 0.25%, bringing it to a range of 3.75%-4%—the first increase since July 2023. As someone who guides families through the home buying and selling journey, I pay close attention to these moves. Rate changes like this can have ripple effects on mortgage rates and affordability, which is why I’m committed to helping you understand how these shifts might impact your plans. The Fed also signaled that another hike could be on the horizon this year, with inflation still sitting above their 2% target. Their next meeting is set for October 27-28, 2026, when they’ll reassess economic conditions. My mission has always been to provide clarity and support as you navigate the financial and emotional sides of moving. Staying informed helps me give you the best guidance possible as you consider your next steps in real estate.

New Listings Rise as Summer Comes to a Close
As summer winds down, I’m noticing a subtle uptick in new home listings—up 1.2%, reaching a three-month high. At the same time, pending sales have dipped by 1.3%, marking their lowest point since March. Median asking prices slipped by 0.1%, even as median sale prices climbed 1.8% year-over-year. These shifts come as higher mortgage rates and economic uncertainty continue to influence the market. For many families, deciding to buy or sell is about more than just numbers—it’s a major life transition. My experience as both a Realtor and a certified life coach has shown me how important it is to navigate these changes thoughtfully, keeping both financial and emotional well-being in focus. Whether you’re getting ready to make a move or just keeping an eye on the market, understanding these trends can help you make confident decisions about your next step.

What Smaller U.S. Homes Could Mean for Buyers
As someone who’s guided families through both the financial and emotional sides of homeownership, I’m always watching how the landscape shifts for buyers. Over the past decade, the average new single-family home in the U.S. has become smaller—shrinking from 2,700 to 2,400 sq-ft—even as the price per square foot jumped roughly 72%. By 2025, about 1 in 4 new homes sold measured under 1,800 sq-ft, compared to just 1 in 6 ten years ago, while homes 3,000 sq-ft and above have become less common. Builders are responding to rising land, labor, and material costs by designing smaller homes, aiming to keep prices manageable as mortgage rates hover around 6% to 7%.

For budget-conscious or first-time buyers, this shift can make down payments and monthly payments less daunting—even though the higher price per square foot reminds us that affordability is still a challenge. As a Realtor and life coach, I see these changes as opportunities to help families approach their next move with confidence and clarity—making sure they understand both the numbers and the bigger picture.