Utah Real Estate Market Update: September 2026 — Deals Are Out There!
By Nancy Bergman | Salt Lake Home Pros | Homes International
Are you thinking about buying a home in West Jordan, Salt Lake City, or anywhere in Salt Lake County? You may want to take another look at the market. More homes are available, properties are taking longer to sell, and opportunities for buyers may be opening up.
As a local Realtor serving West Jordan and the greater Salt Lake Valley, I keep an eye on what's happening in our market so my clients can make informed decisions. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, looking to move up, downsizing, or considering an investment property, understanding the numbers can help you recognize an opportunity.
And yes — deals are out there!
September 2026 Utah Real Estate Market Statistics
According to the September 2026 MLS Housing Market Update from UtahRealEstate.com, here are the statewide figures:
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4,998 new listings entered the market, up 1.4% from September 2025.
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3,123 homes sold, down 10.7% from a year ago.
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14,997 average listings for sale, up 10.2% from last year.
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4,637 average listings under contract, down 8.6% from last year.
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50 median days on market, up from 46 the previous month.
Source: UtahRealEstate.com, September 2026 MLS Housing Market Update. These are statewide figures, not West Jordan-specific statistics.
What Do These Numbers Mean for Homebuyers?
The increase in homes for sale means buyers have more options to consider than they did a year ago. Meanwhile, fewer closed sales and longer marketing times suggest that some sellers may need to adjust their expectations.
For buyers, that can create opportunities to negotiate on price, closing costs, repairs, or even an interest-rate buydown, depending on the property, financing, and seller's circumstances.
I've already seen properties with price reductions of $25,000–$40,000 or more from their original asking prices. Of course, every home and situation is different, but it reinforces why it's worth looking beyond the original list price.
My advice? Don't assume a home is out of reach until you've explored the numbers.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Home in West Jordan or Salt Lake County?
There isn't one perfect time to buy that applies to everyone. Your financial situation, monthly budget, job stability, plans for the future, and the specific home all matter.
However, a market with more available listings and motivated sellers may give buyers more room to negotiate than a highly competitive market.
Here are a few things I encourage buyers to consider:
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Look beyond the asking price. A seller may be willing to contribute toward closing costs or a rate buydown.
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Compare recent comparable sales. The asking price doesn't necessarily reflect what a home is worth today.
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Pay attention to days on market. A property that has been sitting for a while may present an opportunity to start a conversation.
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Get financing information early. Understanding your budget and loan options puts you in a stronger position when the right home appears.
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Don't wait solely for interest rates to fall. Lower rates can bring more buyers into the market, potentially increasing competition. Compare the cost of buying now with the possibility of buying later.
There are no guarantees that prices or mortgage rates will move in a particular direction. The goal is to understand your options and make a decision that works for you.
First-Time Homebuyers: What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a Home?
One of the most common questions I hear is, “What credit score do I need to buy a house?”
The answer depends on the type of mortgage, your overall financial profile, and the lender's requirements.
Here are some general guidelines:
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FHA loans: Some borrowers may qualify with credit scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% minimum down payment. Scores between 500 and 579 may qualify under FHA guidelines with at least 10% down, although lender requirements can be stricter.
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Conventional loans: Some programs allow scores starting around 620, while certain specialized programs may have different requirements.
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VA loans: The Department of Veterans Affairs does not set a universal minimum credit score, but individual lenders often have their own requirements.
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Other loan programs: Depending on eligibility, income, location, and other factors, additional options may be available.
These are general guidelines, not a guarantee of approval. Your credit history, income, debt-to-income ratio, available funds, and the lender's underwriting standards all play a role.
What If Your Credit Score Isn't Perfect?
Don't automatically rule yourself out.
A conversation with a knowledgeable lender can help you understand where you stand, what loan programs might fit your situation, and whether a few adjustments could improve your options.
As a Realtor, I can help you connect the dots between your home search, financing questions, and the buying process. You don't need to have everything figured out before asking questions.
Halloween Fun Around the Salt Lake Valley
Real estate isn't the only thing happening this weekend! October is a great time to explore the community, enjoy the fall weather, and have some Halloween fun.
Trunk or Treat in Midvale
Join us Saturday, October 24, from 4–7 PM for candy, food, carnival games, and family-friendly Halloween fun at the Homes International office.
Location: Homes International, 7070 S Union Park Avenue, Midvale, Utah.
Bring the family and come enjoy the festivities!
Homecoming at the University of Utah
It's Homecoming weekend at the U! The Utah Utes are set to host College GameDay as they take on the University of Houston. Whether you're heading to campus or cheering from home, it's a fun weekend for college football fans.
Looking for Haunted Houses and Halloween Attractions?
If you're searching for spooky attractions around the Salt Lake Valley, check out this Halloween guide:
Best Haunted Houses Near Salt Lake City — FrightMaps
Have fun, enjoy the decorations, and remember to stay safe while celebrating Halloween!
Your Neighborhood Realtor: Here to Help, Without the Pressure
Whether you're buying your first home, selling your current property, relocating to Utah, or looking for an investment, having someone who understands the local market can make the process easier.
I'm Nancy Bergman with Salt Lake Home Pros | Homes International. I work with buyers and sellers throughout West Jordan, South Jordan, Herriman, and the greater Salt Lake Valley.
My approach is simple: listen to your goals, give you honest information, explain your options, and help you decide what makes sense for you.
You don't have to be ready to buy or sell to ask a question. Sometimes a quick conversation is all you need to get started.
Curious about homes for sale, your home's current value, or whether this market could work in your favor? Let's talk.
Nancy Bergman
Salt Lake Home Pros | Homes International
Phone: 858-617-9449
Website: www.saltlakehomepros.com
Have a fun and safe Halloween weekend! And remember — the right real estate opportunity may be closer than you think.