📉 January Sales Down Over 8% — Should We Be Concerned?
January sales in Las Vegas dropped by just over 8%. At first glance, that sounds dramatic. But zoom out and look at historical trends — January is typically one of the slowest months of the year.
When compared to long-term averages (not just the post-COVID frenzy years), these numbers are slightly lower — but not catastrophic. The media loves short-term comparisons. The smart move? Look at the bigger cycle.
This feels seasonal — not systemic.
🚨 Foreclosures & Distressed Sales Double
Here’s where things get interesting.
Distressed and foreclosure listings jumped from roughly 60 in January to more than 160 in February. That’s a noticeable increase.
Is it a crash signal? No.
Is it something to watch? Absolutely.
Some homeowners are clearly feeling financial pressure. As a result, we’re seeing more properties priced aggressively to avoid foreclosure while sellers still have equity. That can create short-term pricing pressure in certain pockets of the market.
📈 Inventory Is Climbing as Spring Approaches
Total on-market properties rose from about 9,100 to over 9,700.
That’s not panic — that’s seasonality.
Spring traditionally brings more listings as sellers regain confidence after the holidays. And despite slower January sales, many homeowners still believe they can command strong prices.
Confidence is rising. The question is whether buyers will meet those expectations.
💰 Pricing Strategy Matters More Than Ever
In this market, pricing correctly is everything.
Homes sitting 60–90 days without offers typically have one issue: they missed the market. Sellers who refuse to adjust often become the inventory that lingers.
The properties that win right now?
✔️ Priced accurately
✔️ Presented well
✔️ Positioned strategically
Overpricing in a rising-inventory environment is risky.
📊 Interest Rates: The “Freeze” Effect
Interest rates appear to be in a holding pattern. That stability can help buyer confidence — but it’s not creating urgency.
When rates aren’t falling, buyers become patient.
When inventory rises, buyers gain leverage.
That dynamic is shaping what we’re seeing as we move toward peak season.
🌷 Opportunity Is Emerging for Buyers
Spring always brings activity — but it also brings options.
If you’re buying:
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Watch properties sitting 60–90 days.
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Look closely at distressed listings with equity.
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Negotiate strategically — especially as we move into early summer.
If you’re selling:
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Price based on today’s market, not last year’s headlines.
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Understand that inventory competition is rising.
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Strategy beats optimism.
Bottom Line
January’s dip isn’t a crisis.
The foreclosure spike isn’t a collapse.
Inventory growth isn’t panic.
But together? They signal a market in transition.
Spring 2026 in Las Vegas isn’t about fear — it’s about positioning.
If you want a personalized breakdown of your home’s value, buying power, or investment strategy here in Las Vegas, let’s talk.
— Rob Hau
ROCKSTAR Realtor 🎸
