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If the last few years of real estate felt like running uphill in sand, you’re not imagining it. Affordability has been the single biggest roadblock for buyers and a constant question mark for sellers. But here’s the shift everyone’s been waiting for: experts say affordability is improving—and 2026 is shaping up to be the most balanced market we’ve seen in years.

No crash. No chaos. Just a calmer, more predictable housing market where smart moves actually feel possible again.

Let’s break down what’s changing—and why this could be your year to make a move.

Mortgage Rates: Lower, Steadier, and More Livable

Mortgage rates already stepped down from their recent highs, dropping nearly a full percentage point over the last year. That may not sound dramatic, but in real life? That’s hundreds of dollars a month for many buyers.

Looking ahead, most forecasts expect rates to hover in the low 6% range throughout 2026. Translation: this isn’t a temporary dip—it’s the new normal.

Think of it like traffic finally flowing again. Not wide open highways, but no more gridlock either.

For buyers:

Lower rates = lower monthly payments and more buying power. Homes that felt just out of reach suddenly come back into play.

For sellers:

Rates in the 6s are workable—especially if you’re sitting on equity. Waiting for the 3% days to return could mean waiting forever.

Inventory Is Growing (And That’s a Big Deal)

Remember when buyers had to waive everything and decide in 12 minutes? That era is fading.

In 2025, inventory jumped about 15%, restoring something buyers hadn’t had in years: options. And in 2026, Realtor.com expects inventory to grow another 8.9%.

That extra supply is doing two powerful things:

1. Giving buyers negotiating leverage
   
   
2. Slowing price growth (which directly improves affordability)
   
   

For buyers:

More homes. More time. More leverage. Less pressure.

For sellers:

Pricing strategy matters more than ever. Homes that are priced right will still move—homes that aren’t will sit.

Home Prices: Still Rising, Just Not Running Wild

Despite what doom-scrollers on social media may say, experts overwhelmingly agree: home prices aren’t crashing.

Nationally, prices are projected to rise about 1.6% in 2026. That’s slower, steadier, and far more sustainable than the rollercoaster we’ve been on.

Think of it like a healthy heartbeat—no dangerous spikes, no flatlines.

And yes, this will vary by market. Some areas will outperform. Others may cool slightly. That’s why local expertise matters more than headlines.

For buyers:

Predictable price growth means fewer surprises and easier budgeting.

For sellers:

Your equity stays protected while the market regains balance. That’s a win-win.

More Sales, More Movement, More Opportunity

When rates ease, inventory grows, and prices stabilize, something important happens: people move again.

Zillow’s Chief Economist Mischa Fisher puts it perfectly:

“Buyers are benefiting from more inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand.”

In other words, 2026 is giving both sides breathing room—and that’s exactly what unlocks momentum.

So… Is 2026 Your Year?

Affordability won’t magically fix itself overnight. But with multiple trends finally moving in the same direction, the market is offering an opportunity we haven’t seen in a long time.

More balance.

More predictability.

Less stress.

The real question is whether you’ll take advantage of it.

Bottom Line

2026 is shaping up to be a smarter, calmer, more approachable real estate market. Whether you’re buying, selling, or considering a career move in real estate, this is the kind of environment where good decisions get rewarded.

📞 Thinking about your next move?

Call or text us at 855-935-MORE. Let’s talk strategy while the market is finally working with you—not against you.