Mid-February Acceleration Signals Broad Buyer Re-Engagement

Market momentum accelerated meaningfully this week as contract activity expanded across both boroughs, signaling that buyers are stepping back into the market ahead of the spring season. The Howard Hanna NYC Consumer Sentiment Index increased sharply from –5% to +29%, underscoring a clear improvement in buyer confidence.

Manhattan led the rebound in signed contracts, while Brooklyn continued to build on its recent strength. Liquidity is improving, and absorption trends indicate that well-positioned properties are clearing the market more efficiently as competitive dynamics begin to re-emerge.

Outlook: Expect further deal velocity as inventory gradually builds and competitive positioning intensifies. Well-priced properties are transacting efficiently, while aspirational pricing continues to face resistance.

Bottom line: Momentum is now clearly constructive. Liquidity is strengthening, and serious buyers are positioning ahead of peak seasonal competition.

Manhattan Supply: Inventory Stabilizes as Listings Temporarily Contract

For the third consecutive week, Manhattan active inventory held steady at 5,313 homes (0% WoW | –4.9% YoY). New listings declined to 260 units (–22% WoW | –19% YoY), continuing to trail last year’s pace. This mid-February slowdown in new supply appears transitional rather than structural. As spring approaches, listing activity is expected to reaccelerate.

Brooklyn Supply: Gradual Expansion Continues

Brooklyn inventory increased slightly to 2,919 homes (+0.1% WoW | +2.5% YoY), effectively stable week over week but showing annual growth. New listings edged higher to 159 units (+2.6% WoW | +18% YoY), signaling that mid-February is beginning to unlock additional supply. Brooklyn’s supply growth remains measured and orderly.

Manhattan Pending Sales: Increased +1.3% WoW to 2,752 units

Brooklyn Pending Sales: Increased +0.4% WoW to 1,661 units

Pending sales increased in both boroughs, confirming that signed contract strength is translating into forward pipeline stability.

Photo by Rihards Gederts | Howard Hanna NYC

Manhattan Consumer Sentiment: Strong Rebound in Contract Activity

Manhattan recorded 228 signed contracts (+62% WoW | +7% YoY). Weekly deal volume surged, reinforcing the improvement in sentiment and marking one of the strongest readings of early 2026. Buyer engagement is broadening beyond selective pockets, though pricing discipline remains critical to execution.

Brooklyn Consumer Sentiment: Confidence Surges Further

Brooklyn logged 135 signed contracts (+24% WoW | +5% YoY). The Brooklyn Sentiment Index climbed from +48% to +82%, indicating accelerating buyer confidence entering mid-February. The borough continues to exhibit relative strength, particularly among value-oriented and first-time purchasers.

New Development Insights: Momentum Expands in Core Locations

New development activity strengthened this week based on Marketproof data, with 38 signed contracts across 33 buildings, reflecting expanding buyer engagement as mid-February approaches. Top-performing developments included:

• 1122 Madison Ave (Upper East Side) with 2 signed contracts

• The Broad Exchange Building (Financial District) with 2 signed contracts.

Activity continues to concentrate in prime, well-positioned assets, reinforcing that pricing alignment and location quality remain the primary drivers of liquidity.

If you would like to chat about the most recent market activity,

feel free to contact us at [email protected] or connect with one of our Advisors.

Howard Hanna NYC brings the nation’s largest independent and family-owned brokerage to New York City, uniting the strength of a national network with the insight and sophistication of a local firm. Formed through joining forces with Elegran Real Estate, Howard Hanna NYC delivers a seamless, full-service experience backed by more than 15,000 agents across 500 offices in 14 states. The firm’s forward-thinking, agent-first culture continues to shape the future of real estate across Manhattan and the Tri-State area.Learn more at www.howardhannanyc.com.