US Confidence Hits Seven-Mo Low | When Experience and Results Matter

Consumer confidence in the US has slipped to a seven-month low, even as people feel relatively positive about their current situations. The present-conditions index rose by about 7 points to 121, yet the expectations index dropped nearly 6 points to 68—a threshold historically linked to increased recession risk. Early in Q3, we also saw employers cut 23,000 jobs and unemployment edge up to roughly 4%, mostly due to fewer people in the workforce rather than stronger hiring. Despite these headwinds, homebuying sentiment has remained resilient, only easing slightly in mid-Q3 and in fact continuing to rise, even as around 61% anticipate higher interest rates. With federal policymakers holding rates steady and markets projecting little immediate relief, buyers can expect elevated borrowing costs through the end of the year. Navigating these shifts requires a strategic approach—one I bring rooted in fiduciary responsibility and deep market insight, always tailored to your goals.