Real Estate News

NAR Pending Home Sales Report Shows 4.0% Increase in August

The National Association of Realtors reports a 4.0% increase in pending home sales for August, signaling renewed buyer interest. This uptick suggests positive momentum in the housing market despite economic headwinds

flareAI Services

05 Dec 2025 — 6 min read

Quick Listen:

Podcast

The U.S. housing market is showing signs of life, with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reporting a 4.0% surge in pending home sales for August. For buyers and sellers in regions like Michigan, West Michigan, Holland, and Florida, this uptick signals cautious optimism amid a challenging landscape. High interest rates and affordability concerns persist, but platforms like Side Door are empowering independent homeowners with tools to navigate transactions confidently. By blending transparent pricing, tailored services, and expert guidance, Side Door is redefining real estate for those searching for “sell my home for less” or “buy a home in Michigan.” Meanwhile, new commission rules post-NAR settlement are reshaping how deals are structured, offering both opportunities and complexities.

Home buying or selling shouldn't mean paying for services you don't use or need. Now, with new rules, you can choose exactly what you pay for. Side Door's smart match engine connects you with vetted agents offering flexible service levels, so you pay only for what you use. Keep the guidance, skip the extras, and save thousands and still get the keys in hand. Join Side Door for FREE today!

A Cautious Thaw in a Frozen Market

The U.S. housing market remains in a state of cautious stagnation, with J.P. Morgan Research forecasting a modest 3% rise in house prices through 2025 and mortgage rates dipping slightly to 6.7% by year-end. The report highlights a market constrained by elevated interest rates, with demand tracked through existing home sales remaining notably subdued. The NAR's August data, showing a 4.0% increase in pending home sales, offers a glimmer of hope. These contracts, which signal future closings, suggest buyers are slowly returning, particularly in regions like West Michigan and Florida, where local dynamics create unique opportunities.

In West Michigan, communities like Holland attract buyers with their affordability and charm, offering a quieter alternative to pricier coastal markets. Florida, meanwhile, continues to draw retirees and remote workers, though affordability challenges persist. J.P. Morgan notes that policy shifts under President Trump could further complicate affordability, potentially impacting demand. For independent buyers and sellers, platforms like Side Door provide a lifeline, offering streamlined workflows and vetted professionals to navigate these regional markets with clarity and cost efficiency.

New Commission Rules: What's Changed?

The recent NAR settlement has upended traditional real estate commission structures, introducing greater flexibility but also new complexities. According to U.S. News, the settlement has altered how commissions are negotiated, moving away from the standard 5-6% model. Buyers and sellers now have more room to negotiate fees directly with agents, potentially lowering costs. However, Yahoo Finance reports that these changes haven't significantly reduced overall transaction costs, as market dynamics and agent incentives still play a role.

For buyers searching “where to start with home buying” in Michigan or Florida, this shift means greater control but also a need for vigilance. Sellers, particularly those exploring FSBO options, can now cherry-pick services such as hiring a title company or inspector without committing to a full-service agent. Side Door capitalizes on this trend, offering an à la carte menu of services that aligns with the needs of cost-conscious homeowners. By connecting users with vetted professionals, Side Door ensures that transactions remain transparent and tailored, whether you're selling a lakeside cottage in Holland or buying a condo in Florida.

Empowering Homeowners with Choice

Side Door's platform is built on a simple premise: empower homeowners to take charge of their real estate journey. Unlike traditional models, which often lock clients into full-service contracts, Side Door lets users select only the services they need. This approach resonates with those searching for “michigan real estate” or “where to start in real estate,” reflecting a growing demand for flexibility. By offering guided workflows and access to trusted professionals, Side Door helps buyers and sellers navigate complex markets without unnecessary fees.

In regions like West Michigan, where the real estate market demands precision, Side Door shines. Buyers exploring “buy a home in Michigan” face a range of options, from Holland's quaint lakefront properties to Grand Rapid's suburban neighborhoods. Side Door's platform simplifies the process, connecting users with local experts who understand these nuances. For sellers, particularly those pursuing FSBO sales, Side Door provides tools to manage listings and connect with title companies or lenders who prioritize their needs. Real estate agents also benefit, gaining access to deals they might otherwise miss, fostering relationships with clients who value expertise over full-service commitments.

Navigating Objections in a Competitive Landscape

As a startup, Side Door faces hurdles in a competitive real estate space. Established players like Real Estate One and Premier Lakeshore dominate Michigan's market with polished websites and hefty marketing budgets. Some prospects hesitate to trust a newer platform, perceiving it as less refined. Side Door counters this by focusing on value and transparency, leveraging its social media presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to engage users with content tailored to queries like “get more leads for my real estate business.”

Another challenge is the perception that startups can't compete with industry giants. Side Door flips this narrative by emphasizing its unique strengths: a platform led by experienced real estate practitioners and a collaborative model that integrates title companies, lenders, and inspectors as partners. Unlike traditional setups, where these professionals often operate separately, Side Door fosters direct connections, ensuring services align with homeowner's specific needs. This approach not only reduces costs but also builds trust, particularly for those wary of high fees and rigid structures.

Negotiation Strategies for the New Era

The NAR settlement has opened the door to commission negotiations, but success requires strategy. List With Clever outlines steps for negotiating lower fees, such as researching local commission rates and comparing agent proposals. For example, a seller in West Michigan might negotiate a 2.5% commission instead of the traditional 3%, saving thousands on a $300,000 home. Buyers, meanwhile, can clarify who pays the agent's fee upfront, avoiding surprises at closing.

Side Door enhances these negotiations by offering transparency and choice. Sellers can opt for specific services like a professional appraisal or legal review without committing to a full commission. Buyers benefit from access to vetted lenders who provide competitive rates, crucial in a market where mortgage rates hover near 6.7%. By demystifying the process, Side Door empowers users to make informed decisions, whether they're first-time buyers in Florida or seasoned sellers in Holland.

The Future of Real Estate: Control and Confidence

The NAR's 4.0% increase in pending home sales is a modest but meaningful signal that the housing market is stirring. Yet, with J.P. Morgan forecasting a subdued 3% growth through 2025, the path forward requires adaptability. For independent buyers and sellers in Michigan, West Michigan, Holland, and Florida, platforms like Side Door are paving the way. By offering choice, transparency, and expert support, Side Door addresses the needs of those searching for “michigan real estate” or “sell my home for less.”

The new commission rules add another layer of opportunity, allowing homeowners to negotiate better deals and avoid unnecessary costs. But challenges remain affordability, competition, and market uncertainty loom large. Side Door's collaborative model, rooted in industry expertise and digital innovation, offers a solution. Whether you're selling a cozy bungalow in Holland or buying a sunny condo in Florida, the future of real estate is about control. With tools like Side Door, homeowners can navigate this evolving landscape with confidence, turning cautious optimism into tangible success.

Frequently Asked Questions

How have the new NAR commission rules changed real estate fees for buyers and sellers?

The recent NAR settlement has shifted real estate commission structures away from the standard 5-6% model, giving buyers and sellers more flexibility to negotiate fees directly with agents. While this creates opportunities for cost savings such as negotiating a 2.5% commission instead of 3% on a $300,000 home overall transaction costs haven't dropped significantly yet due to ongoing market dynamics. Homeowners now have greater control to select à la carte services rather than committing to full-service agent contracts, potentially reducing unnecessary expenses.

What does the 4.0% increase in pending home sales mean for Michigan and Florida real estate markets?

The 4.0% surge in pending home sales for August signals cautious optimism in the U.S. housing market, particularly for regions like Michigan and Florida. In West Michigan, communities like Holland are attracting buyers with affordability and charm, while Florida continues drawing retirees and remote workers despite affordability challenges. These pending contracts indicate that buyers are slowly returning to the market, though J.P. Morgan forecasts modest 3% house price growth through 2025 with mortgage rates expected to dip slightly to 6.7% by year-end.

How can independent homeowners save money when buying or selling a home in 2025?

Independent homeowners can reduce costs by negotiating commission rates directly with agents, researching local market rates, and selecting only the services they need rather than full-service packages. Platforms that offer transparent pricing and à la carte options allow sellers to choose specific services like professional appraisals or legal reviews without paying full commissions. Buyers should clarify upfront who pays agent fees and connect with vetted lenders to secure competitive mortgage rates, especially important as rates hover near 6.7% in the current market.

Disclaimer: The above helpful resources content contains personal opinions and experiences. The information provided is for general knowledge and does not constitute professional advice.

You may also be interested in: Commercial Real Estate Sees Slow Recovery in Urban Centers