According to Compass, the Fed held steady on its benchmark rate, while mortgage rates dipped just below 7%. Stock markets remain elevated, though with some volatility, and consumer confidence has wavered amid uncertainty. A devastating climate-related disaster struck the state, bringing significant human and financial impacts. Meanwhile, shifting national and global political landscapes continue to introduce unknowns for the economy and housing markets.

Locally, the real estate market is following its usual new-year momentum. New listings and pending sales are rebounding from December’s seasonal slowdown and are expected to climb further. In the Bay Area, spring is already on the horizon—historically the most active season for buyers and sellers, often bringing competitive conditions and peak home prices.