June's new-home sales rebounded, but here's the catch

New-home sales bounced back in June, recovering some of May's slide. But zoom out: sales are still running below last year's pace. The headline is a rebound, but the subtext is that high prices and mortgage rates near 6.625% (6.674% APR) are keeping buyers cautious. If you've got a seller worried about competition from new builds, remind them that resale closings are faster and the inventory edge is still real.

For buyers, June's data shows modest movement, not momentum. If they're waiting for a big shift, it's not here yet. The next Fed decision is September 16, and until then the rate environment is what it is. The move that works is the one that fits their budget and timeline today, not a guess about next quarter.

I'm here when your clients are ready to run numbers or lock. Call me at (949) 350-8005 or email Brett.Hickman@yourhomefirst.com.

Rates shown are today's average California rates as of 7/30/2026, for general information only and not an offer or commitment to lend. Your actual rate and APR depend on your credit, loan amount, down payment, and property, and rates and terms can change at any time. Brett Hickman, NMLS #2010859. Home First Financial, NMLS #2465048. Equal Housing Lender.