Friday Finds: Fall Real Estate Opportunities, Market Updates & Things to Do in Salt Lake This Weekend
September 25, 2026
If you've been watching the real estate market lately, you've probably noticed one thing: interest rates have gone up.
And yes, that matters.
But it doesn't mean buyers should automatically hit the pause button.
In fact, I think there are still some pretty interesting opportunities in the Salt Lake City real estate market right now—especially for buyers who are willing to look beyond the headline interest rate.
Interest Rates Are Higher—But There Are Still Deals to Be Found
One of the things I'm watching closely right now is seller-paid closing costs and credits.
Depending on the property, the seller's situation and how the offer is structured, buyers may be able to negotiate seller concessions that can help with closing costs or potentially be used toward buying down the interest rate.
That can make a meaningful difference in the overall cost of buying a home.
The important thing is to look at the whole deal, not just the interest rate.
A home that's been sitting on the market, for example, may provide more room for negotiation than one that just hit the market and already has multiple interested buyers.
That's where having someone who knows the local market—and knows how to negotiate—can really help.
Why Fall Real Estate May Work Better Than You Think
Fall sometimes gets overlooked in real estate.
Everyone talks about the spring and summer markets, but there are some real advantages to buying or selling in the fall.
Serious Buyers Are Still Shopping
The buyers who are actively looking in September, October and November often have a reason to make a move.
They may be relocating for a job, coming to the end of a lease, looking for a home before the holidays or simply ready to stop waiting.
That can mean you're dealing with buyers who are more motivated to actually get something done.
Less Competition
Some buyers decide to wait until spring.
Some sellers do, too.
That can mean fewer people competing for the same homes, which can create opportunities for buyers who are willing to shop now.
For sellers, it means your home needs to stand out. Pricing, condition and exposure become especially important when buyers have choices.
Motivated Sellers
If a home was listed during the summer and didn't sell, the seller may be more open to a conversation about price, closing costs or other terms as we move toward the end of the year.
That doesn't mean every seller will negotiate.
But it's worth asking.
Fall Has Its Own Appeal
And let's be honest—there's something about walking into a warm, well-staged home on a crisp fall day that just feels like home.
A cozy fireplace, fall decorations and a house that feels comfortable and welcoming can create a different kind of emotional connection.
Sometimes you don't need to wait until spring to find the right house.
Salt Lake City Real Estate Market Update
The Salt Lake market continues to give buyers more choices and, in many cases, more negotiating room than we've seen during some of the extremely competitive markets of the past.
But this is still a very neighborhood-specific market.
What's happening in West Jordan may look different from what's happening in South Jordan, Saratoga Springs, Sandy or Salt Lake City.
And a $400,000 home can behave very differently from a $900,000 home.
That's why I don't love broad statements like "it's a buyer's market" or "it's a seller's market."
I want to know:
- How many similar homes are currently for sale?
- How long are they taking to sell?
- Are sellers offering concessions?
- Are prices changing?
- What are comparable homes actually selling for?
- What is happening in YOUR neighborhood?
Those details are much more useful when you're trying to make a real decision.
🏡 Two Homes Worth Checking Out This Weekend
If you're out looking at homes this weekend, I have two very different opportunities worth putting on your list.
✨ Luxury Living in Saratoga Springs
I'm hosting a beautiful luxury home this Saturday, September 26, from 12–2 PM.
📍 3248 S Forest Ave, Saratoga Springs
Built in 2023, this approximately 4,647-square-foot home offers incredible Utah Lake and mountain views, plenty of space and beautiful finishes.
It's a great opportunity for anyone considering a move to Saratoga Springs, looking for more space or simply curious about what you can get in today's luxury market.
Come see me Saturday from 12–2!
💰 A Townhouse Under $300K With Lots of Possibilities
The second opportunity is completely different—and that's exactly why I love it.
If you're looking for a first home, investment property or housing option for a college student, this townhouse is worth a look.
5358 S Baldwin Park in Murray, UT
It's under $300,000. Open house is this Friday, 9/25 from 5-7p and Saturday, 9/26 from 11a-1p.
It could potentially make sense for someone who wants a home they can live in now and rent later, an investor looking for a longer-term rental opportunity, or parents considering a home for a college student rather than paying rent for several years.
And if you're looking for something that's a little more stable and longer-term than an Airbnb-style rental, this type of property may be worth exploring.
Real estate doesn't always have to be a giant luxury home or a massive investment property.
Sometimes the smaller properties are the ones that make the most sense.
🍂 Things to Do in Salt Lake City This Weekend
Of course, if you're taking a break from house hunting, there's plenty happening around Salt Lake this weekend.
This is one of my favorite things about living here—there's always something going on.
Whether you're looking for a farmers market, live music, sports, theater or something outdoors, fall is a great time to get out and explore the valley.
And if you're new to Utah, this is also a great time to explore the different neighborhoods.
Take a drive through Salt Lake City, Millcreek, Cottonwood Heights, Sandy, Draper, South Jordan and West Jordan and see what feels like home.
Because buying a house isn't just about the house.
It's about where you want to live.
Thinking About Buying This Fall?
You don't have to decide today.
If you're curious about what's available, wondering what your payment might look like with current rates, or want to see whether a seller may be willing to contribute toward your closing costs or rate buy-down, I'm happy to run the numbers.
And if you're thinking about selling, fall isn't necessarily a reason to wait until spring.
There are still serious buyers out there.
The key is having a strategy that fits the current market—not the market we had three years ago.
I'm always happy to be your resource, whether you're buying, selling, investing or simply keeping an eye on what's happening around Salt Lake.
No pressure. No sales pitch.
Just real information and a conversation about what might make sense for you.
— Nancy Bergman
Your Neighborhood Realtor
Homes International
📱 858-617-9449
🌐 SaltLakeHomePros.com