Zillow Group Inc. has released its January Market Report, indicating improving affordability for U.S. home buyers. The Zillow Home Value Index shows that home values have declined for six consecutive months, with the typical U.S. home value now at $358,968. Monthly mortgage payments on a typical home have dropped to $1,733, which is 8.4% less expensive than a year ago, largely due to lower mortgage rates. Inventory remains higher than last year, with 1.11 million homes for sale, though new listings were down 5.5% year over year. Home sales in January were 4% lower than the previous year, influenced in part by poor weather. Meanwhile, the typical nationwide rent has risen 2% over the past year to $1,895, but growth in rent prices is showing signs of cooling, and the share of rental listings offering concessions has decreased. Zillow forecasts gradual improvements in both sales and affordability throughout the year.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Zillow Group Inc. published the original content used to generate this news brief on February 04, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.