REMAX National Housing Report: How Local Markets Influence National Trends

The May 2026 REMAX National Housing Report surveyed 51 metro areas across the U.S. and showed home sales and inventory both increased in May, while price growth remained modest, offering a picture of a market that is active nationally but increasingly shaped by local conditions. 

National trends point to a market still in motion 

Across all markets in the report, home sales rose 7.9% from April to May, while active inventory climbed 8.4% month over month. The median sold price reached $450,000, up 1.1% from the previous month and 1.4% from a year earlier. 

At the same time, new listings fell 3.3% from April and 8.4% year over year, a sign that fresh supply is still not building fast enough to fully ease competition in many areas. Homes sold in an average of 42 days, three days faster than in April, and the national list-to-close price ratio reached 99%. 

"The housing market was finding its footing this spring, with steady month-over-month sales gains showing that buyers are still engaged," said Chris Lim, REMAX President and Chief Growth Officer. "At the same time, the slowdown in new listings limited inventory growth. That's keeping conditions competitive in many markets, even as price growth remains relatively moderate. For buyers and sellers alike, this is a market where timing and expert guidance matter more than ever." 

Cincinnati shows how value can drive demand 

Cincinnati was one of the clearest examples of buyer activity in May. Sales rose 17.4% from April and 4.5% from a year earlier, while inventory increased 14.2% month over month and 21.9% year over year. Even with more homes on the market, the median sold price climbed to $329,000, up 4.4% both month and year over year. Homes averaged just 22 days on market. 

That combination helps explain why the region continues to stand out. “Cincinnati offers something many buyers across the country are struggling to find, and that is value,” said Donna Deaton, Managing Vice President of REMAX Victory + Affiliates. “Compared to larger cities, our housing remains affordable while still providing job growth and desirable suburban communities. That is attracting local move-up buyers and people relocating to the region.”  

Compared with the national median sold price of $450,000, Cincinnati remains a lower-priced market with strong sales momentum, reinforcing the appeal of markets where relative affordability and economic stability still align. 

Atlanta reflects resilient demand despite fewer new listings 

In Atlanta, sales rose 8.0% from April and 0.9% from May 2025. Yet new listings were down 8.7% from both last month and last year, while inventory was also slightly lower year over year. The median sold price rose to $408,000, up 2.0% from a year ago. 

“Atlanta’s May numbers show that buyer demand remains remarkably resilient,” said Kristen Jones, Broker/Owner of REMAX Around Atlanta. “Even though new listings were down nearly 9%, home sales still increased. That’s a strong indication that buyers are continuing to move forward with their plans despite higher borrowing costs and a more limited selection of homes. When well-priced properties come to market, they’re still attracting serious interest.” 

Atlanta’s May data underscores a broader national theme: when supply remains constrained, pricing and presentation matter even more. 

Miami offers a look at a more balanced market 

Miami’s numbers tell a different story, one that points to a market moving toward greater balance. Sales dipped 3.0% from April but were still up 7.7% from a year ago. Months’ supply stood at 5.4, much higher than the national figure of 2.5, and homes averaged 78 days on market. The median sold price was $525,000, up 1.0% year over year. 

That shift is reflected in how local professionals are advising clients. “Some of our sellers are still adjusting to the market change from a strong seller’s market to a more balanced market,” said Anthony Askowitz, Broker/Owner of REMAX Advance Realty. “Our agents are working hard to educate them on positioning the property realistically rather than speculatively in the market to attract educated buyers.” 

Miami stands apart from tighter markets in the Midwest and Southeast, but it also shows how local seasonality and market psychology can shape the pace of activity even when annual sales remain positive. 

Raleigh highlights the importance of pricing discipline 

Raleigh added another layer to the national story. Sales rose 7.5% from April and 4.5% from a year earlier, while inventory increased 9.5% month over month and 6.9% year over year. The median sold price was $449,000, nearly in line with the national figure, though slightly below last year’s level. Homes spent about 50 days on market on average. 

For John Wood, Broker/Owner of REMAX United in Raleigh, buyer interest is improving, but only for homes that meet the market. “Encouraged by slightly lower mortgage rates, more buyers are entering the market,” Wood said. “Buyers should know that homes in the right location, condition, and priced correctly will sell quickly and often at the list price or higher. Sellers must understand that initial pricing is crucial; buyers are ignoring overpriced homes and often won’t wait for sellers to adjust the price.” 

That message resonates well beyond Raleigh. In a market where inventory is rising in some areas, but new listings remain uneven, strategy matters as much as timing. 

The May report suggests the national housing market is still moving forward, but not in one uniform direction. Some markets are driven by affordability, others by persistent buyer demand, and others by a resetting balance between buyers and sellers. 

To read the full REMAX National Housing Report, click here.