A national home price index showed US single-family prices ↑~3%, topping the ~2% forecast and signaling stronger-than-expected housing momentum across major metro markets.
That reading also improved from the prior ~2% level, suggesting the market kept gaining ground as demand stayed firm and available homes remained limited.
Because home prices often reflect broader confidence, this stronger result pointed to healthier economic activity and supportive conditions for housing-related spending and investment.
A resilient housing backdrop can also help adjacent US industries, with construction and home improvement positioned to benefit when buyer confidence and activity hold.
At the same time, firmer price growth may keep affordability in focus, so policymakers and analysts are likely to watch stability and buyer access closely.

Welcome home to 437 Caro Lane, a timeless gem in Chapin, South Carolina! Nestled in the highly desirable lakefront community of The Oaks, this elegant custom all-brick estate sits perfectly on a massive, sprawling 1.09-acre lot. Boasting an impressive 3,722 square feet of meticulously maintained living space, this home blends open-concept functionality with refined craftsmanship. Step inside to find a remarkably bright and spacious floor plan defined by custom architectural touches. The Living Areas: Gleaming, pristine flooring grounds an inviting main-level flow. A gourmet kitchen with extensive premium selections seamlessly connects to a grand formal dining room and a vaulted great room anchored by stately custom built-ins. The main-floor master suite serves as your private retreat, showcasing soaring high ceilings and beautiful, upgraded true hardwood flooring. French doors swing open to seamlessly blend indoor comfort with your outdoor paradise. The en-suite bathroom is beautifully oversized, offering a spa-like escape complete with an expansive walk-in closet. The other 3 bedrooms upstairs are spacious and tastefully decorated. The oversized FROG can be used a media center, home gym, children's playroom, or an isolated home office? The 2-car side-entry garage provides extensive storage space and features a dedicated workshop space, perfect for weekend DIY projects or additional tool organization. Step outside your Primary Bedroom or Great Room onto a large back deck where the flooring has been completely replaced. It is perfectly primed for year-round entertaining, overlooking your vast, private 1.09-acre backyard oasis. The Oaks subdivision provides an exceptional line-up of amenities including a private neighborhood boat ramp, secure boat storage, and a community swimming pool. Families will love being zoned for the top-performing, award-winning Chapin School System (Lexington/Richland School District Five). Don't miss the chance to experience the ultimate lake-access lifestyle on over an acre of pristine land. Disclaimer: CMLS has not reviewed and, therefore, does not endorse vendors who may appear in listings.

It’s been an interesting season for the US housing market, with the national median sale price now standing at $395,000—a 2% increase over last year. Even as sales have dipped about 4% and overall inventory has grown by 5%, buyers have stayed active, but they’re taking more time, weighing their options, and focusing on the homes that truly fit their needs. That’s led to a modest appreciation in prices despite fewer transactions overall.

Single-family homes continue to set the pace, with a median price of $400,000, sales down 4%, and inventory up 6%. Condominiums now average $349,000, and townhomes are holding steady near $360,000. Across all these property types, sales have softened, but the most notable inventory growth is in townhomes, while condos have seen the sharpest decline in sales.

All of this paints a picture of a market that’s increasingly balanced. With more choices available, buyers can be selective—something I’ve seen firsthand here around Lake Murray and the surrounding communities. When the right listing comes along, it still draws attention quickly, and if this trend continues, we could see inventory tighten and prices rise gradually. As always, patience and a thoughtful approach go a long way in finding the right fit, especially in a market shaped by both opportunity and selectivity.