US pending home sales drop unexpectedly in January as low inventory hampers market growth
US pending home sales fell 0.8 percent in January as low inventory limited buyer options. Realtors warn that tight supply could push home prices higher.
Insights:
Contracts to purchase previously owned homes in the US
US unexpectedly fell in January, signaling a potential decline in near-term resale activity. The National Association of Realtors reported on February 19, 2026, that its Pending Home Sales Index dropped 0.8% to 70.9. This result was unexpected compared to economists' forecasts, as a Reuters poll had predicted a 1.3% increase.








