Author: Michael Hoke

Looking ahead through 2028, experts predict that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate will hover in the mid-6% range. This means we’re unlikely to see dramatic rate drops, so buyers and sellers may want to plan accordingly. At the same time, home prices are expected to rise modestly—good news for those who value steady growth. With more inventory on the market, competition should ease a bit, making the process less stressful for everyone involved. As for refinancing, the potential benefits are limited unless you need to switch loan types or tap into your home’s equity. As someone who’s spent two decades helping York County families and investors navigate these market changes, I know how important it is to have a clear plan and the latest information. My approach is always rooted in honest advice and creative solutions, whether you’re buying your first home, selling, or exploring investment possibilities. Let’s make your next real estate move as smooth as possible—knowledge is your best tool in this shifting market.

August brought a slight uptick in builder confidence, which rose to 35. While this is still below the 50 mark that signals strong optimism, it’s a detail worth noting for anyone keeping an eye on the housing market. The Midwest and Northeast saw improvements, while activity in the South and West either leveled off or dipped. High costs, rising fuel prices, and ongoing economic uncertainty continue to make things challenging for builders—though custom projects and smaller markets are showing a bit more resilience. As someone who’s spent years helping York County families and investors navigate shifting market conditions, I know how important it is to keep tabs on these trends. My focus is always on providing you with clear, current insight so you can make informed decisions, whether you’re ready to buy, sell, or invest.

Dreaming of owning your own home in York, Pennsylvania? The path to homeownership starts with understanding what you can comfortably afford, securing mortgage preapproval, and learning how the local market is moving. Recent York-area data shows a median sale price near $175,000, making thoughtful preparation especially important as you compare neighborhoods, financing options, and available homes. These slides offer practical steps to help you move from wishing to planning—and invite you to connect with a local real estate agent who can guide you from the first search to the closing table.

This summer, many in our community are feeling the effects of rising costs in the housing market. Recent numbers show existing-home sales dipped 1.7% from June to July, though they remain 0.7% higher than last year. With mortgage rates hovering around 6.6% and inventory staying low, it's no surprise that buyer activity has slowed and affordability is a growing concern—especially for first-time buyers facing a median home price of $434,100. As someone who’s spent 20 years helping York County families and investors make sense of the real estate landscape, I know how overwhelming these shifts can feel. My approach blends creative problem-solving with up-to-date local insight, so you can navigate these market changes with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re planning your first move or your next investment, understanding the numbers is the first step to making the best decision for your goals.

The enchanted fairy festival is the perfect inspiration for exploring the magic of York, Pennsylvania—and imagining where your next chapter could unfold. With a median residential sale price of $174,884 and homes spending a median of 33 days on the market, local buyers can benefit from clear planning and quick action. Start by setting a realistic budget, getting pre-approved, and exploring neighborhoods that match your lifestyle. Whether you are searching for a cozy cottage, a family-friendly retreat, or a home with storybook charm, a local real estate agent can help turn your vision into a confident next step. Message me to begin your York home search.

Home prices continue to climb across the country, with the U.S. median for single-family homes reaching $418,610 in July 2026—a 3.93% increase over last year. Mortgage rates have also moved up to 6.66%. For some perspective, Washington, D.C. tops the list with a median price of $1,342,343. As someone deeply rooted in the York County market, I keep a close eye on these shifts to guide clients through every stage of their real estate journey. Whether you're navigating your first purchase, planning to upsize, or looking for investment opportunities, understanding these numbers is essential. My focus is always on providing honest insights, creative solutions, and support that extends well beyond closing. Let’s make sense of the numbers together and position you for success—whatever your real estate goals may be.

Mark your calendar for the Enchanted Fairy Festival on September 19, 2026, at Springettsbury Township Park. This family-friendly celebration brings a little magic to York County with immersive themed lands, interactive activities, creative crafts, live performers, animals, local artisans, and food vendors. Families can also enjoy a free public fall-festival area filled with seasonal fun. As a York-area real estate agent, I love highlighting the experiences that make our community feel like home. Save the date, invite your festival friends, and follow along for more local events and neighborhood insights.

As we step into September, it's clear that the U.S. housing market is experiencing a shift. August saw a slight slowdown—pending sales dipped by 0.2%, and contract signings dropped 3.7%. Median list prices have now decreased 1% for the tenth consecutive month. Inventory has crept up by 3.6%, though it’s still not back to pre-pandemic levels, and affordability remains a challenge for many. In my 20 years working with York County families and investors, I've learned how crucial it is to stay ahead of these market movements. My focus is always on simplifying the process, equipping clients with the latest insights, and navigating changing conditions together. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding these trends can help you make confident decisions and achieve your real estate goals.