#RealEstate, #HousingMarket, #BuyerGhosting, #ContractCancellations, #HomeBuyingTips, #DoomScrolling

In this eye-opening episode of Coffee With Real Estate, host Susan and producer Kurt dive into a chilling 2026 housing market trend: buyers ghosting the market. With inventory rising and mortgage rates hovering around 6% (as of February 2026), more homebuyers are snapping up properties under contract only to back out later—leading to record cancellation rates, like 16%+ nationally in late 2025 data, hitting hardest in metros such as Atlanta, Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Antonio, and Riverside. Discover why sudden borrowing cost worries, economic jitters, inspection fears, or cold feet are causing deals to fall apart, even as the market tilts buyer-friendly with higher active listings and negotiating power.

Susan shares real-life stories from her experience as a seasoned realtor, including a recent young couple who ghosted after strong negotiations, and practical tips to minimize risks. Sellers: qualify buyers with solid lender pre-approvals, uncover true motivations, price competitively, fix deferred maintenance, and consider stronger non-refundable option fees or earnest money to keep buyers committed. Buyers: don't wait for the "perfect" home or lower rates—act on today's abundant inventory, negotiate aggressively, and remember refinance options if rates drop further. Prices may stall or grow modestly in 2026, offering opportunities now before potential rebounds.

Plus, a fun, relatable shift to modern life: exhausted parents "doom scrolling" in their cars for a moment of peace before home chaos—highlighting the need to unplug amid constant connectivity.

Whether you're buying, selling, or just curious about real estate trends, this episode delivers actionable advice, market insights, and a dose of humor. Subscribe for more Coffee With Real Estate updates on navigating homeownership in 2026!

#HomeSelling, #MortgageRates, #RealEstate2026, #BuyersMarket,