FORT WAYNE, Ind.—(November 12, 2026)—Northeast Indiana’s housing market continued to move quickly in October, despite declines in listings and sales activity, according to the latest report from the Upstate Alliance of REALTORS® MLS (UPSTAR MLS).
Homes in the Fort Wayne region went under contract in a median of just 15 days, a 32% decrease from October 2025, according to the Indiana Association of REALTORS® (IAR) Housing Hub. The faster pace was a bright spot in a month marked by fewer transactions.
October 2026 Housing Market Snapshot
Compared to October 2025:
| Market Indicator | October 2026 | Year-over-Year |
| New Listings | 885 | ↓ 8% |
| Pending Sales | 586 | ↓ 17% |
| Closed Sales | 637 | ↓ 10% |
| Median Sales Price | $268,900 | ↑ 7% |
Despite fewer sales, the 7% increase in median sales price and shorter time to pending suggest continued competition for well-priced homes.
Mortgage Rates and Market Outlook
Mortgage rates remain a challenge for buyers, with the average 30-year fixed rate hovering around 7% in recent months. Combined with rising home prices, borrowing costs continue to affect affordability and purchasing decisions.
However, today’s rates are closer to historical norms than many buyers may realize. Since Freddie Mac began tracking mortgage rates in 1971, the long-term average has been approximately 7.7%. The exceptionally low rates near 3% during the pandemic were historically unusual. While affordability remains a concern, this perspective suggests that today’s mortgage environment is not unprecedented and that homeownership opportunities remain for buyers who are financially prepared.
Sue Teasdale, 2026 President, UPSTAR MLS
“Although we’re seeing fewer sales than a year ago, homes are still moving quickly, and prices continue to hold strong. Buyers remain active, but affordability is a real consideration. These conditions make accurate pricing and the guidance of a local REALTOR® especially important.”
Looking Ahead
October’s results reflect a market that remains competitive despite slower sales. With homes continuing to move quickly and prices holding firm, buyers and sellers can benefit from understanding local conditions and working with a REALTOR® to navigate their options.
ABOUT UPSTAR MLS
The October 2026 Monthly Market is published by the Upstate Alliance of REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service Inc. (UPSTAR MLS), a subsidiary of the Upstate Alliance of REALTORS®. The report is based on Residential Detached Single-Family homes, townhomes, and condominiums as reported to the Indiana Regional Multiple Listing Service (IRMLS) and collected by the IAR Housing Hub. The report may not reflect all real estate activity in the marketplace.
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