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
Over the past few years, affordability challenges caused many would-be movers to hit pause. But that pause isn’t permanent — life keeps moving, and housing needs change. Experts predict that in 2026, more of those sidelined buyers and sellers will re-enter the market.
What’s driving this renewed activity? Two major forces: lower mortgage rates and stabilizing home prices. Together, they’re setting the stage for a healthier, more balanced housing market.
Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Ease
The number one thing nearly every buyer has been waiting for is lower mortgage rates. After peaking near 7% earlier this year, rates have started to ease — and experts believe that trend will continue into 2026.
That said, the decline won’t happen overnight. As industry experts like to say:
“When rates go up, they take the escalator. When they come down, they take the stairs.”
Expect a gradual, sometimes bumpy path toward lower rates, with projections suggesting we could see the low 6s or even high 5s next year. Even modest decreases can significantly improve affordability, saving buyers hundreds of dollars each month compared to earlier highs.
This easing trend could finally unlock pent-up demand, motivating more buyers to act — and giving sellers a larger pool of potential buyers.
Home Price Growth Will Be Moderate
While rates may cool, prices aren’t expected to fall dramatically. Instead, home price growth will continue at a moderate, more sustainable pace.
Here’s why that’s actually good news:
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Stability breeds confidence. Predictable price growth allows buyers and sellers to plan with greater certainty.
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No major crash expected. Even in areas with minor declines, most homeowners still hold significant equity thanks to the appreciation of recent years.
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Local trends matter most. Some markets with tight inventory will see stronger price growth, while others may experience slower gains.
On the national scale, prices are expected to rise modestly — enough to sustain equity without creating the affordability issues we saw in previous years.
The Real Estate Landscape in 2026
All signs point to a more balanced, opportunity-filled housing market next year. With mortgage rates trending lower, prices growing steadily, and more transactions taking place, 2026 could be a refreshing change of pace for both buyers and sellers.
For buyers, this means a chance to re-enter the market with more manageable monthly payments. For sellers, it means increased demand — and a greater chance to make a profitable, timely move.
Bottom Line
After a quieter few years, 2026 is shaping up to be the year the housing market regains momentum. With sales projected to rise, mortgage rates easing, and home prices stabilizing, the stage is set for a smoother, healthier market.
So, the real question is: will you be one of the movers making 2026 your year?
👉 Connect with The Ace Estate Team today to explore your options, plan your next move, and take advantage of the opportunities this new market cycle brings.
