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Top 3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring

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ID, 'property_price', true); $beds = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_beds', true); $baths = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_baths', true); $sqft = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_sqft', true); $mls = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_mls', true); ?>
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<?php } // Save property meta data function bhhs_save_property_meta($post_id) { // Check nonce if (!isset($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce']) || !wp_verify_nonce($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce'], 'bhhs_property_details')) { return; } // Check autosave if (defined('DOING_AUTOSAVE') && DOING_AUTOSAVE) { return; } // Check permissions if (!current_user_can('edit_post', $post_id)) { return; } // Save meta data $meta_fields = array( 'property_price', 'property_beds', 'property_baths', 'property_sqft', 'property_mls' ); foreach ($meta_fields as $field) { if (isset($_POST[$field])) { update_post_meta($post_id, $field, sanitize_text_field($_POST[$field])); } } } add_action('save_post', 'bhhs_save_property_meta');

If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see:

  • Mortgage rates drop a little more.
  • More homes hit the market.

But here’s what most buyers don’t realize. Buying just a few weeks earlier could mean paying less, dealing with less stress, and feeling less rushed.

Here are three reasons why accelerating your timeline over the next few weeks could actually be a better play.

1. Holding Out for Lower Rates May Pay Off 

A lot of buyers are hoping mortgage rates will fall even further. But that’s not the best strategy. Here’s why. Experts are pretty aligned on this: rates are expected to stay roughly where they are.

Forecasts throughout the industry all point to the same thing: rates are projected to be in the low-6% range this year (see graph below): 

And let’s be honest, for a lot of buyers today, every little bit of savings helps. That’s why buying just a few weeks earlier, before prices ramp up, will be better for you and your wallet.

Bottom Line

Buying a few weeks before spring isn’t about rushing. It’s about choosing to be ahead of the curve and knowing you want more leverage, less stress, and meaningful savings.

If you’re ready and able to buy now and want to get the ball rolling, connect with a local agent.

Mortgage Rates Recently Hit a 3-Year Low. Here’s Why That’s Still a Big Deal.

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ID, 'property_price', true); $beds = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_beds', true); $baths = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_baths', true); $sqft = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_sqft', true); $mls = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_mls', true); ?>
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<?php } // Save property meta data function bhhs_save_property_meta($post_id) { // Check nonce if (!isset($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce']) || !wp_verify_nonce($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce'], 'bhhs_property_details')) { return; } // Check autosave if (defined('DOING_AUTOSAVE') && DOING_AUTOSAVE) { return; } // Check permissions if (!current_user_can('edit_post', $post_id)) { return; } // Save meta data $meta_fields = array( 'property_price', 'property_beds', 'property_baths', 'property_sqft', 'property_mls' ); foreach ($meta_fields as $field) { if (isset($_POST[$field])) { update_post_meta($post_id, $field, sanitize_text_field($_POST[$field])); } } } add_action('save_post', 'bhhs_save_property_meta');

If you’re one of the thousands of homebuyers waiting for rates to fall, you should know it’s already happening. And they recently crossed an important milestone. Rates officially dipped their toes into the 5s – something that hasn’t happened in about 3 years.

This moment marked a critical threshold. Now, rates are sitting in the low 6% territory. And expert forecasts project they’ll hover near this range throughout the year.

Here’s why that’s so good for you.

Why Current Rates Are Such a Big Deal

A mortgage rate doesn’t just affect the interest you end up paying on your home loan. It shapes your entire buying experience.

When rates were up around 7% just one year ago, a lot of buyers felt priced out. Payments were higher. Budgets felt tighter. Affordability was a bigger challenge. That’s especially true for first-time homebuyers, who felt the biggest pinch.

But according to industry experts, that’s starting to change now that rates are slowly inching down. Let’s break down why.

Right now, borrowing costs are in their lowest range in almost 3 years . And that can change the type of home you can afford.

At 6% or below, you’ll see:

  • Lower monthly payments. The payment on a $400k home loan is down over $300 compared to when rates were around 7%.
  • More buying power, thanks to the extra breathing room in your budget.

In other words, you can now make a stronger offer, purchase in a different location, or buy a home that checks more of your boxes. And that feels like a big shift compared to when rates were at 7%.

This Opens the Door for 550,000 Buyers

To drive home just how much this helps potential homebuyers like you, consider this research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It shows that when mortgage rates sit around this level, millions more households can afford a home. When rates are at 6% or below:

  • 5.5 million more households can afford the median-priced home
  • And roughly 550,000 of those people will likely buy a home within 12 to 18 months

That’s not just speculation. That’s pent-up demand finally getting the green light they’ve been waiting for. You’ve got the chance right now to get ahead and buy before more people notice the game has just changed.

Because whether rates stay in the low 6s or dip back down into the upper 5s, the math is already working in your favor. And the difference from a low 6% to a high 5% isn’t as big as you may think. But the difference from 7% to 6%? That is very much a big deal, and it’s a number that’s already working in your favor.

An Important Call Out

Mortgage rates don’t operate in a vacuum. Home prices, local inventory, property taxes, home insurance, and your personal finances still matter.

And a rate in this territory doesn’t mean every home suddenly works for every buyer. That’s why getting pre-approved and running your numbers with a trusted lender is key.

Still, this rate environment puts more buyers in play than we’ve seen in years. So, if buying didn’t work for you before, it’s worth taking another look.

Bottom Line

Mortgage rates dropping to a 3-year low isn’t just a headline.

For many buyers, where rates are now could be the difference between watching from the sidelines and finally getting the keys to their next home.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to re-run your numbers and see what’s possible now, this is it.

Connect with a lender to take a look at what today’s rates mean for your budget and your options.

Expert Forecasts Point to Affordability Improving in 2026

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ID, 'property_price', true); $beds = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_beds', true); $baths = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_baths', true); $sqft = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_sqft', true); $mls = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_mls', true); ?>
<input type="number" id="property_price" name="property_price" value="" style="width: 100%;">
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<?php } // Save property meta data function bhhs_save_property_meta($post_id) { // Check nonce if (!isset($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce']) || !wp_verify_nonce($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce'], 'bhhs_property_details')) { return; } // Check autosave if (defined('DOING_AUTOSAVE') && DOING_AUTOSAVE) { return; } // Check permissions if (!current_user_can('edit_post', $post_id)) { return; } // Save meta data $meta_fields = array( 'property_price', 'property_beds', 'property_baths', 'property_sqft', 'property_mls' ); foreach ($meta_fields as $field) { if (isset($_POST[$field])) { update_post_meta($post_id, $field, sanitize_text_field($_POST[$field])); } } } add_action('save_post', 'bhhs_save_property_meta');

Wondering what to expect from the housing market in 2026? You’re not the only one. For the past few years, affordability has been the biggest barrier standing between most people and their next move. And a lot of buyers and sellers have been holding their breath waiting for things to get better. The good news? It’s finally happening.

In 2025, affordability was the best it’s been in 3 years. And experts agree the momentum will keep going in 2026. And that’s based on their analysis of the key factors shaping the housing market in the year ahead: mortgage rates, inventory, and home prices.

Lower Mortgage Rates Are Already Here 

Mortgage rates have already come down from their peak. By some counts, they dropped by almost a full percentage point over the course of the last year. And that’s a big deal, even if it doesn’t sound like it. But how low will they go? And should you wait for them to come down more? Here’s your answer. 

And that’s reassuring if you’ve been fed content on social media saying prices are going to come crashing down. But here’s what you need to remember most about this. It’s going to vary a lot by area.

So, lean on a local agent for the latest on what’s happening where you are. Some markets will see prices rise more than this. Others may see prices come down slightly. It really all depends on conditions in your local market

But overall, prices will continue to rise at the national level. And that’s good for the market as a whole. As Realtor.com explains :

“For homebuyers and sellers, the shift signals a more balanced market—one where price growth steadies, rate relief offers breathing room, and negotiating power tilts subtly toward buyers.”

  • For buyers: Expect more moderate price growth, not the sudden and intense spikes just a few short years ago. That gives you fewer surprises and more predictability, which makes budgeting a whole lot easier.
  • For sellers: This slower price growth restores balance without putting your equity at risk. And that’s a win. 

More Homes Will Sell 

All of this adds up to a better affordability equation in 2026. And that’s exactly why experts are saying we should see more homes sell (and more people buy) this year.

As Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Zillow, says:

“Buyers are benefiting from more inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand. Each group should have a bit more breathing room in 2026.”

The bottom line is, more people are finally going to be able to make their move this year. So, the question is: will you be one of them? The market is giving you an opportunity you haven’t had in a while. Maybe it’s time to take advantage of it.

Bottom Line

Affordability won’t change suddenly overnight. But, with several key trends working together, it should slowly and steadily improve in the months ahead.

That’s exactly why, in 2026, you should see a market with more balance, more predictability, and more breathing room than you’ve had in years.

Want more information about the opportunities unlocking in your local market? Connect with a real estate agent today.

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate

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ID, 'property_price', true); $beds = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_beds', true); $baths = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_baths', true); $sqft = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_sqft', true); $mls = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_mls', true); ?>
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<?php } // Save property meta data function bhhs_save_property_meta($post_id) { // Check nonce if (!isset($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce']) || !wp_verify_nonce($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce'], 'bhhs_property_details')) { return; } // Check autosave if (defined('DOING_AUTOSAVE') && DOING_AUTOSAVE) { return; } // Check permissions if (!current_user_can('edit_post', $post_id)) { return; } // Save meta data $meta_fields = array( 'property_price', 'property_beds', 'property_baths', 'property_sqft', 'property_mls' ); foreach ($meta_fields as $field) { if (isset($_POST[$field])) { update_post_meta($post_id, $field, sanitize_text_field($_POST[$field])); } } } add_action('save_post', 'bhhs_save_property_meta');

If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you’ve probably thought: “I’d like to move… but I don’t want to give up my 3% rate.” That’s fair. That rate has been one of your best financial wins – and it can be hard to let go. But here’s what you need to remember…

A great rate won’t make up for a home that no longer works for you. Life changes, and sometimes, your home needs to change with it. And you’re not the only one making that choice.

The Lock-In Effect Is Starting To Ease

Many homeowners have been frozen in place by something the experts call the lock-in effect. That’s when you won’t move because you don’t want to take on a higher rate on your next home loan. But data from Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows the lock-in effect is slowly starting to ease for some people.

The share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% (the yellow in the graph below) is slowly declining as more people move. And while some of the people with a rate over 6% are first-time buyers, the number of homeowners with a rate above 6% (the blue) is rising as others take on higher rates for their next home: 

Why Are More People Moving Now, if It Means Taking on a Higher Rate?

It’s simple. Sometimes they can’t put their life on pause anymore. Families grow, jobs change, priorities shift, and a house that once fit perfectly may not fit at all anymore – no matter how good their rate was. And that’s okay. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economic Research at Redfin, explains:

“More homeowners are deciding it’s worth moving even if it means giving up a lower mortgage rate. Life doesn’t standstill—people get new jobs, grow their families, downsize after retirement, or simply want to live in a different neighborhood. Those needs are starting to outweigh the financial benefit of clinging to a rock-bottom mortgage rate.”

First American refers to these life motivators as the 5 Ds:

  • Diplomas: People with college degrees typically earn more, and that adds up to more buying power. Maybe you bought your house when you were younger and now that you’ve graduated and have a rising career, you’re ready to move up.
  • Diapers: You’ve outgrown your space. If you’re welcoming a new baby, your current home might not be cutting it anymore.
  • Divorce: Whether it’s ending a marriage (or starting one), it can create the need for a new place to call home.
  • Downsizing: You’re ready to downsize. Maybe the kids have moved out and it’s time to simplify. Smaller house, less maintenance, more freedom.
  • Death: If you’ve recently lost a loved one, maybe you’ve realized you want to be closer to family. Life’s too short to live far from the people who matter most.

Whatever your reason, here’s what you need to think about. Yes, your low rate is great. But staying put means your life may stay on hold. And maybe that’s not working for you anymore.

According to Realtor.com, nearly 2 in 3 potential sellers have already been thinking about moving for over a year. That’s a long time to press pause on your plans. On your needs. On your family’s goals. So, maybe the question isn’t: “Should I move?”

It’s actually: “How much longer am I willing to stay somewhere that no longer fits my life?”

Because we’ve already seen rates come down from their peak earlier this year. And they’re expected to ease a bit more in 2026. When you stack that on top of the very real reasons you may need a new home, it may be enough to finally move the needle for you.

Bottom Line

Life doesn’t wait for the perfect rate. Maybe you shouldn’t either.

With mortgage rates down from their peak and forecast to dip slightly more in 2026, moving may be more feasible than you think. If you’re ready to see what’s possible in your market, connect with a local agent and lender.

The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner Going into 2026

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ID, 'property_price', true); $beds = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_beds', true); $baths = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_baths', true); $sqft = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_sqft', true); $mls = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_mls', true); ?>
<input type="number" id="property_price" name="property_price" value="" style="width: 100%;">
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<?php } // Save property meta data function bhhs_save_property_meta($post_id) { // Check nonce if (!isset($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce']) || !wp_verify_nonce($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce'], 'bhhs_property_details')) { return; } // Check autosave if (defined('DOING_AUTOSAVE') && DOING_AUTOSAVE) { return; } // Check permissions if (!current_user_can('edit_post', $post_id)) { return; } // Save meta data $meta_fields = array( 'property_price', 'property_beds', 'property_baths', 'property_sqft', 'property_mls' ); foreach ($meta_fields as $field) { if (isset($_POST[$field])) { update_post_meta($post_id, $field, sanitize_text_field($_POST[$field])); } } } add_action('save_post', 'bhhs_save_property_meta');

After several years of high mortgage rates and hesitation from buyers, momentum is quietly building beneath the surface of the housing market. Sellers are reappearing. Buyers are re-engaging. And for the first time in what feels like forever, there’s movement happening again.

No, it’s not a surge. But it is a shift – and it’s one that could set the stage for a stronger year in 2026.

So, what’s driving the comeback? Here are three big trends that are slowly breathing life back into the housing market right now.

1. Mortgage Rates Have Been Coming Down

That return to more normal inventory levels is a really good thing. It gives buyers more options than they’ve had in years. And it’s helping to bring the market closer to balance.

3. More Buyers Are Re-Entering the Market

And it’s not just sellers making moves. With more options and slightly better affordability, buyers are getting back in the game, too. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) reports purchase applications are up compared to last year, a clear signal that demand is building again (see graph below):

And experts think this momentum will continue. Economists from Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) all forecast moderate sales growth going into 2026.

Now, this recovery won’t happen overnight. It’s not a flood of activity. But it is the start of steady improvement going into 2026. And that’s something a lot of people have been waiting for.

Bottom Line

After several slower-than-normal years, the market is finally starting to turn a corner. Declining mortgage rates, more listings, and growing buyer activity all point to a market gaining real traction.

Connect with a local real estate agent about what’s changing and how you can make the most of it in 2026.

Would You Let $80 a Month Hold You Back from Buying a Home?

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ID, 'property_price', true); $beds = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_beds', true); $baths = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_baths', true); $sqft = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_sqft', true); $mls = get_post_meta($post->ID, 'property_mls', true); ?>
<input type="number" id="property_price" name="property_price" value="" style="width: 100%;">
<input type="number" id="property_beds" name="property_beds" value="" style="width: 100%;">
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<input type="number" id="property_sqft" name="property_sqft" value="" style="width: 100%;">
<input type="text" id="property_mls" name="property_mls" value="" style="width: 100%;">
<?php } // Save property meta data function bhhs_save_property_meta($post_id) { // Check nonce if (!isset($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce']) || !wp_verify_nonce($_POST['bhhs_property_details_nonce'], 'bhhs_property_details')) { return; } // Check autosave if (defined('DOING_AUTOSAVE') && DOING_AUTOSAVE) { return; } // Check permissions if (!current_user_can('edit_post', $post_id)) { return; } // Save meta data $meta_fields = array( 'property_price', 'property_beds', 'property_baths', 'property_sqft', 'property_mls' ); foreach ($meta_fields as $field) { if (isset($_POST[$field])) { update_post_meta($post_id, $field, sanitize_text_field($_POST[$field])); } } } add_action('save_post', 'bhhs_save_property_meta');

A lot of buyers are stuck in “wait and see” mode right now. They’re watching rates hover a little above 6% and thinking, I’ll buy once they hit the 5s. Because who doesn’t want a better rate?

But here’s the thing: that 5.99% number might not save you as much as you think.

Affordability is still a challenge. There’s no question about that. But the market has given savvy buyers a head start. Mortgage rates have already come down over the past few months. And the drop we’ve seen saves you more than you’d think.

How Much You’ve Already Saved, Without Realizing It

Let’s put some real numbers to it. Rates peaked for the year in May when they inched above 7%. But since then, they’ve been slowly declining. Now, they’re sitting in the low 6s. And while that may not sound like a big deal, that change translates to real dollars.

According to data coming out of Redfin, the typical monthly payment on a $400,000 home is already down almost $400 since May.

That means if you’re buying a home now, you’re saving hundreds of dollars every month compared to what you would have been able to get earlier this spring. That’s real money that makes a real difference for buyers who paused their plans because they thought homeownership was out of reach.

And while it may be tempting to wait even longer to see bigger savings, that’s a gamble that could cost you. Here’s why.

Where Experts Say Rates Are Headed

For starters, Eighty dollars. That’s it. And for the typical family, that’s about one dinner out (or one dinner in, if you have it delivered). That’s not enough to change the game for most buyers. But the savings of nearly $400 we already have compared to when you paused your search in the spring? That might be. 

So, the question to ask yourself is this:

Is an extra $80 savings really worth the wait?

Because while you’re holding out for that small dip, the bigger opportunity might be slipping away.

When Rates Fall, Competition Follows

Right now, you have more homes to choose from, sellers who are ready to negotiate to get a deal done, and fewer buyers to compete with. But once rates fall below 6%, buyer mindsets will shift and all of that will change.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that if rates hit 6%, about 5.5 million more households will be able to afford the median-priced home. Even if only a small fraction of them decide to buy, that could mean hundreds of thousands of buyers getting back into the market.

That creates more competition for you, which would push home prices even higher – maybe high enough to cancel out the extra savings you waited for.

So, if you’re waiting for rates below 6%, just keep in mind… that extra $80 may not be worth it in the grand scheme of things.

Bottom Line

You don’t have to wait for 5.99%. You have the chance to move (and save) right now. So, ask yourself: Would you let $80 hold you back from buying a home?

If you find a home you love and the math makes sense, getting ahead may be the best strategy. Connect with an agent or lender to run your numbers. That way you can see what you’re working with in your market.

Why You Don’t Need To Be Afraid of Today’s Mortgage Rates

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Mortgage rates have been the monster under the bed for a while. Every time they tick up, people flinch and say, “Maybe I’ll wait.” But here’s the twist. Waiting for that perfect 5-point-something rate could end up haunting your wallet later.

The Magic Number

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“. . . a 30-year fixed rate mortgage of 6% would make the median-priced home affordable for about 5.5 million more households—including 1.6 million renters. If rates were to hit that magic number, it’s likely that about 10%—or 550,000—of those additional households would buy a home over the next 12 or 18 months.”

When the market hits that mortgage rate sweet spot, as expert forecasters are starting to say is more likely in 2026, the psychological shift to lower rates will kick in for more of today’s hopeful buyers. That will unleash some pent-up demand that’s been waiting on the sidelines, and the increase in activity will cause prices to rise.

And while a 5.99% rate might sound like a big win, if you’re waiting for that number to make your move, it might not actually save you as much as you think. Here’s how the math looks when you run the numbers (see chart below):

On a $400,000 mortgage, the difference between today’s rate (around 6.2%) and 5.99% is roughly $50 a month. That’s less than many people spend on weekly coffee runs or occasional DoorDash orders. And as prices tick up with more buyers in the market, that could quickly negate any of your potential savings.

So, if you’re waiting for 5.99%, that difference might not be worth missing out on today’s opportunities, like having more homes to choose from, better negotiation leverage with today’s sellers, and fewer buyers out there looking for the same houses.

Because the reality is, those benefits start to slip away when more buyers begin to make their moves – and a rate under 6% is exactly they’re waiting for.

Why Acting Now Makes Sense

Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at NAR, says:

“Over the last 5 weeks, mortgage rates have averaged 6.31%. This has provided savvy buyers a sweet spot to reexamine the home search process with more inventory, widening their choices.”

And like Matt Vernon, Head of Retail Lending at Bank of America, notes:

“Rather than waiting it out for a rate that they like better, hopeful homebuyers should assess their personal financial situation—if the house is right for them, and the upfront and monthly payments are affordable, it could be the right chance to make a move.”

Bottom Line

If moving at today’s rate scares you, remember, waiting doesn’t always pay off. Once rates dip below 6%, as some experts project they’ll do next year, more buyers (and higher prices) will be back.

So, don’t be afraid of today’s mortgage rates. Because if you’re ready, this might just be your chance to make a move before the market wakes up again.

The $280 Shift in Affordability Every Homebuyer Should Know

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If you paused your plans to move because of high rates or prices, it may finally be time to take a second look at your numbers. Affordability is improving in 39 of the top 50 markets, according to First American. And that’s the 5th straight month where buying a home has started to get a little bit easier.

Let’s break this down into real dollars, so you can see the difference this could make for you (and your move).

Monthly Payments Are Coming Down

One of the clearest signs of this shift is in monthly payments. The latest data from Redfin shows mortgage payments on a median-priced home are now $283 lower than they were just a few months ago (see graph below):

This kind of monthly savings adds up fast, and totals nearly $3,400 over the course of a year.

While this isn’t enough to completely change the affordability game overnight, think about it this way. When you’re putting together a homebuying budget, a few hundred dollars could be the difference between being comfortable buying and feeling like money’s a bit tight.

And from a home-search perspective, it could even be enough to change the price point you can look at. According to Redfin:

“A borrower with a $3,000 monthly budget can now afford a $468,000 home, about $22,000 more than in June.”

And that’s a big deal if you haven’t found a home you love in your price range yet. It gives you a little more flexibility to find the one that’s right for you.

Either way, that’s a big win.

What’s Behind the Shift?

Two key factors are working in your favor right now:

  • Mortgage rates have eased from their high earlier this year
  • Home price growth is slowing in many markets

Both of those things help your bottom line and give you a bit of breathing room if you’re buying a home. As Andy Walden, Head of Mortgage and Housing Market Research at ICE Mortgage Technology, says:

“The recent pullback in rates has created a tailwind for both homebuyers and existing borrowers. We’re seeing affordability at a 2.5-year high . . .”

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or someone looking to move-up into a bigger house, the shifts happening this year could make your move possible. Connect with a trusted agent or lender to see what your monthly payment would look like at today’s rates.

For you, the savings could be the difference between “not yet” and “let’s go.”

Bottom Line

Affordability is improving in many markets. And that resets the math on your move.

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, this is your cue to start looking again. Connect with a local agent or trusted lender to run the numbers together so you can get a rough estimate of how much more buying power you may have than you did just a few months ago.

2026 Housing Market Outlook

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After a couple of years where the housing market felt stuck in neutral, 2026 may be the year things shift back into gear. Expert forecasts show more people are expected to move – and that could open the door for you to do the same.

More Homes Will Sell

With all of the affordability challenges at play over the past few years, many would-be movers pressed pause. But that pause button isn’t going to last forever. There are always people who need to move. And There’s a saying: when rates go up, they take the escalator. But when they come down, they take the stairs. And that’s an important thing to remember. It’ll be a slow and bumpy process.

Expect modest improvement in mortgage rates over the next year but be ready for some volatility. There will be volatility along the way as new economic data comes out. Just don’t let it distract you from the bigger picture: the overall trend will be a slight decline. Forecasts say we could hit the low 6s, or maybe even the high 5s.

And remember, there doesn’t have to be a big drop for you to feel a change. Even a smaller dip helps your bottom line.

If you compare where rates are now to when they were at 7% earlier this year, you’re already saving hundreds on your future mortgage payment. And that’s a really good thing. It’s enough to make a real difference in affordability for some buyers.

Home Price Growth Will Be Moderate

What about prices? On a national scale, forecasts say they’re still going to rise, just not by a lot. With rates down from their peak earlier this year, more buyers will re-enter the market. And that increased demand will keep some upward pressure on prices nationally – and prevent prices from tumbling down.

So, even though some markets are already seeing slight price declines, you can rest easy that a big crash just isn’t in the cards. Thanks to how much prices rose over the last 5 years, even the markets seeing declines right now are still up compared to just a few years ago.

Of course, price trends will depend on where you are and what’s happening in your local market. Inventory is a big driver in why some places are going to see varying levels of appreciation going forward. But experts agree we’ll see prices grow at the national level (see graph below): 

This is yet another good sign for buyers and overall affordability. While prices will still go up nationally, it’ll be at a much more sustainable pace. And that predictability makes it easier to plan your budget. It also gives you peace of mind that prices won’t suddenly skyrocket overnight.

Bottom Line

After a quieter couple of years, 2026 is expected to bring more movement – and more opportunity. With sales projected to rise, mortgage rates trending lower, and price growth slowing down, the stage is set for a healthier, more active market.

So, the big question: will you be one of the movers making 2026 your year?

Connect with an agent if you want to get ready.

Why Experts Say Mortgage Rates Should Ease Over the Next Year

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You want mortgage rates to fall – and they’ve started to. But is it going to last? And how low will they go?

Experts say there’s room for rates to come down even more over the next year. And one of the leading indicators to watch is the 10-year treasury yield. Here’s why.

The Link Between Mortgage Rates and the 10-Year Treasury Yield

For over 50 years, the 30-year fixed And that opens the door for mortgage rates to come down even more. As a recent article from Redfin explains:

“A lower mortgage spread equals lower mortgage rates. If the spread continues to decline, mortgage rates could fall more than they already have.”

The 10-Year Treasury Yield Is Expected To Decline

It’s not just the spread, though. The 10-year treasury yield itself is also forecast to come down in the months ahead. So, when you combine a lower yield with a narrowing spread, you have two key forces potentially pushing mortgage rates down going into next year.

This long-term relationship is a big reason why you see experts currently projecting mortgage rates will ease, with a fringe possibility they’ll hit the upper 5s toward the end of next year.

Here’s how it works. Take the 10-year treasury yield, which is sitting at about 4.09% at the time this article is being written, and then add the average spread of 1.76%. From there, you’d expect mortgage rates to be around 5.85% (see graph below):

But remember, all of that can change as the economy shifts. And know for certain that there will be ups and downs along the way. 

How these dynamics play out will depend on where the economy, the job market, inflation, and more go from here. But the 2026 outlook is currently expected to be a gradual mortgage rate decline. And as of now, things are starting to move in the right direction.

Bottom Line

Keeping up with all of these shifts can feel overwhelming. That’s why having an experienced agent or lender on your side matters. They’ll do the heavy lifting for you.

If you want real-time updates on mortgage rates, reach out to a trusted agent or lender who can keep you in the loop and help you plan your next move.

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