Sales rose nearly 8% compared to a year earlier.

If the housing market is a roller coaster, mortgage rates are at the controls. If they drop, things could speed up.

But the cost of fixing up can be high.

It’s all about expectations. Mortgage rates fell in anticipation of the Fed cutting interest rates. But then came the strong September jobs report.

Real estate agents say buyers are showing patience, possibly hoping for a longer-term rate-cut scenario.

Properties sold through a dual agent tend to move faster, but for less money, research shows. In some states, the practice is illegal.

The increase in housing supply will help bring down, or at least steady, prices, experts say.

Young adults increasingly need help from a parent, or other older adult, to buy their first home. The tough market is removing some of the stigma.

Softer demand for second homes has led to greater inventory in some markets, but overall, the climate is still competitive for buyers.

More agents might start charging buyers hourly rates or working on retainer.