Helping You Understand What the Numbers Mean
Looking Beyond the Numbers ~ "The headline tells one story. The numbers tell another."
One of the questions I'm asked most often is:
"How's the market?"
My answer is almost always the same...
It depends on which numbers you're looking at, and whether you know the story behind them.
That's why I enjoy putting together these monthly Canyon Creek market updates. My goal isn't simply to report statistics. It's to help homeowners understand what those numbers really mean when making one of life's biggest financial decisions.
Here's what stood out to me in July 2026.
At first glance, six homes sold compared to seven in July of last year, a modest 14% decrease. While July was a little quieter than last year, Canyon Creek remains ahead of last year's pace, with significantly more homes sold year-to-date than at this time in 2025.
The pricing numbers also deserve a closer look.
Average sales price appeared to decline 11% compared to last July, while the average price per square foot actually increased 11%.
📊 July at a Glance
🏡 6 homes sold (down 14%)
💲 Average sold price: $710,967 (down 11%)
📏 Average home size: 2,703 SF (down 21%)
💵 Sold price per SF: $258.97 (up 11%)
⏱ Average days on market: 15 (down 75%)
Why the difference?
Two factors influenced the averages. One home sold substantially below market value because of extensive mold remediation issues, creating an outlier that pulled the average sales price down. In addition, the homes that sold this July were, on average, about 21% smaller than those sold a year ago.
This is exactly why averages don't always tell the whole story.
The encouraging news is that well-prepared homes continued to sell quickly. Properties averaged just 15 days on the market, a 75% improvement over last July.
That tells me buyers haven't disappeared.
They're simply being intentional.
They're waiting for the right home, in the right neighborhood, priced appropriately, and when they find it, they're ready to move.
As we begin August, Canyon Creek has 13 active listings with an average of 57 days on the market. Several have recently been re-listed after coming back to the market with new agents, often reflecting a fresh pricing strategy or improved presentation. Two homes are currently under contract after averaging just 24 days on the market.
With more than 1,388 homes in Canyon Creek, inventory remains limited, and homes that are thoughtfully prepared and strategically priced continue to attract strong buyer interest.
What does this mean if you're thinking about selling?
Today's market rewards preparation.
The homes generating the greatest interest have three things in common:
- They're priced strategically.
• They're beautifully presented.
• They're move-in ready.
Buyers still recognize value, and they're willing to act when they find it.
What does this mean if you're buying?
Preparation matters just as much as patience.
The best opportunities don't always stay on the market very long, so having your financing in place and knowing what you're looking for can make all the difference.
One thing I've learned after many years of helping families buy and sell homes...
Markets don't move because of headlines.
They move because of people.
Families grow.
Jobs change.
Children leave for college.
Grandchildren arrive.
Retirement begins.
Life keeps moving, and real estate moves right along with it.
That's why understanding the story behind the statistics is every bit as important as knowing the statistics themselves.
Market Takeaway
✨ The takeaway: While average sale prices were lower than last July, homes sold this year were significantly smaller. The increase in price per square foot and the dramatic drop in days on market tell the bigger story, a market with buyers ready to act when the right home comes along.
One unusual sale can influence the averages, but it doesn't define the market. Looking deeper reveals a Canyon Creek market where well-priced, well-prepared homes continue to attract confident buyers. Market Matters because informed decisions begin with understanding the story behind the numbers.
Question of the Week
Have you ever seen a statistic that sounded alarming, only to discover there was much more to the story?
I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
—Dorie Dillard
Your Trusted Resource for Real Estate & Community
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