If buying or selling a home is on your radar for 2026, the outlook is brighter than it has been in years. After a long period of uncertainty and slow movement, the housing market is starting to find its footing again. That shift is bringing more balance, improved options, and a clearer sense of direction for everyone involved.
That said, real estate won’t suddenly become effortless. Challenges will still exist. But the difference now is that several key trends are finally moving in a way that opens real opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
What Experts Are Saying About the 2026 Housing Market
Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains that after a tough cycle for the housing industry, 2026 is expected to mark a slow but steady transition toward a healthier, more predictable market.
Economists at the National Association of Realtors echo that optimism, identifying 2026 as a year of renewed opportunity. As mortgage rates are expected to gradually decline and more homes enter the market, buyer and seller activity should begin to recover after years of limited momentum.
Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, adds that for the first time in quite a while, the underlying fundamentals are starting to work together. While interest rates may come down at a measured pace, incomes are projected to rise faster than home prices. That combination should steadily improve affordability. The turnaround won’t be immediate, but the trajectory is finally improving.
Zillow’s Chief Economist, Mischa Fisher, highlights the return of balance. Buyers are likely to see more choices and slightly improved affordability, while sellers can expect more consistent pricing and dependable demand. Overall, 2026 should feel less restrictive for both sides of the transaction.
Why Local Expertise Matters More Than Ever
Despite encouraging national trends, real estate is still driven by local conditions. Markets can look very different from one city or even one neighborhood to the next. Some areas may experience solid growth, while others could remain relatively flat. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, notes that regional economic factors will heavily influence outcomes, making 2026 one of the most uneven housing markets in recent memory.
That’s where working with a trusted local real estate expert, like myself, becomes essential. National data sets the stage, but local knowledge is what turns market shifts into successful strategies.
Bottom Line: 2026 Is Shaping Up to Be a Year of Opportunity
If you’re considering a move in 2026, now is the perfect time to understand how these changes affect your local market. Reach out today, and I’ll help you navigate your options and position yourself to make the most of what lies ahead.
