First American Financial Corporation's latest Home Price Index $(HPI)$ report shows that national home prices have cooled, with a year-over-year increase of just 1.1% from September 2024 to September 2025. The report highlights regional differences, noting continued price growth in the Northeast and Midwest, while several Sun Belt markets, including Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, have seen declines. Specifically, home prices in the Houston metro area decreased by 0.6% year-over-year, though they experienced a slight 0.1% uptick month-over-month from August to September 2025. Chief Economist Mark Fleming emphasized that the market's cooldown has resulted in slower annual price appreciation, offering buyers more choices and negotiating power. The data reflects ongoing adjustments in demand due to affordability constraints and improving inventory levels.