Home Price Growth Stalls Near 1% As Local Divide Widens

U.S. home-price growth stalled near 1% annually for the third month in July, with a 0.5% monthly decline, reflecting weak demand and mixed inventory levels. National prices remain flat as affordability limits buyers, while local markets diverge: Chicago saw a 6.4% rise amid tight supply, whereas Austin experienced a 2.9% decline with elevated inventory. Starter-home prices rose notably in some cities, highlighting varied conditions across regions and price tiers.