Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell in January as rising mortgage rates and prices put off many would-be homebuyers despite a wider selection of properties on the market.

Mortgage rates are down to a nearly three-month low. But if you’re thinking of buying a home, beware of these hidden costs.

Tight conditions are squeezing buyers across the country. In Westchester County, New York, real estate agent Pamela Grunstein is navigating a market that has 1.6 months of supply – a far cry from the 6 months or so that’s long been considered the sign of an evenly balanced market.