05/25/2026
he Realtor.com 2026 National Housing Forecast predicts that the U.S. housing market in 2026 will become more balanced and stable after several difficult years, although activity will still remain relatively slow compared to historical norms. Mortgage rates are expected to average around 6.3%, slightly improving affordability, while home prices are forecast to rise modestly by about 2.2%, below the rapid appreciation seen during the pandemic years. Existing-home sales are projected to increase only slightly, reflecting cautious buyers still affected by high borrowing costs and affordability concerns. At the same time, housing inventory is expected to continue recovering, giving buyers more options and somewhat stronger negotiating power. The report also highlights that incomes are expected to grow faster than inflation and home prices, helping affordability gradually improve for the first time since 2022. Renters may also see relief, particularly in Southern and Western markets where rents are softening due to increased supply. Overall, the forecast describes a market transitioning away from the extreme seller’s market of recent years toward a healthier equilibrium between buyers and sellers.
In 2026, we expect a steadier housing market, but it's not yet off to the races. Mortgage rates are forecast to average 6.3%, easing affordability pressures slightly, while home prices rise modestly by 2.2%. Existing-home sales should climb about 1.7% to 4.13 million, a small but meaningful gain fro...
