The 2026 Real Estate Outlook
Introduction
As we approach the end of 2025, it’s time to look ahead to what the housing market might bring in 2026. While the past few years have been anything but predictable, the data from well-regarded sources points toward a more balanced market, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers who plan strategically.
Here’s what your go-to real-estate planner (that’s us at The Mavins Group) thinks you should watch for and how you can act now to be ready.
Key Data Points to Know
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) forecasts a ~3% increase in median existing-home prices for 2025, with a slight acceleration to ~4% in 2026. Global Property Guide+2Norada Real Estate+2
According to Fannie Mae, home-price growth was revised lower: they project ~2.8% for 2025 and only ~1.1% for 2026. Fannie Mae
Inventory and time-on-market trends from Realtor.com show that active listings grew 28.9% year-over-year in June 2025, and median list price rose only 0.2% from a year earlier. Realtor
These numbers show a market that’s still moving, but slower, and in a more nuanced fashion than the frenzied years we’ve seen.
What This Means for Buyers
✅ More Options, But Selectivity Will Win
With inventory rising, you’ll likely find more homes to choose from. That said, higher options don’t always mean easier deals. Homes in markets with strong fundamentals (good schools, access to transit, growth potential) will stand out.
Tip: Make a short wish-list of must-haves and wants. Then work with The Mavins Group to target homes that check both.
✅ Borrowing Costs Will Matter Even More
Mortgage rates aren’t collapsing, and many analysts believe they’ll stay elevated. For example, high borrowing costs remain a concern in forecasts through 2026. Investopedia+1
Tip: Lock in a sensible budget now, rather than assuming dramatic drops in rates later. Make sure your payment, not just the list price, fits your long-haul plan.
✅ Long-Term Value Still Counts
Even if price growth slows, real estate remains one of the few assets with both utility (you live in it) and wealth potential. Align your purchase with life-stage goals, whether that’s starting a family, scaling up, or investing.
Tip: Identify homes that can work for you 5-10 years from now (flex rooms, good yard, proximity to transit/work) so you won’t feel boxed in.
What This Means for Sellers
✅ Pricing for Realistic Growth
Since many forecasts suggest modest price increases (1-4%), expecting double-digit gains may lead to disappointment.
Tip: Work with The Mavins Group to price your home with a realistic but competitive mindset. A home that’s accurately priced often sells faster and for closer to asking.
✅ The Advantage of Presentation
In a market with more inventory, the homes that shine will typically be those that look well-maintained and move-in ready. Our staging, decluttering, and move-management services can help you capture the best value.
Tip: Spend part of your budget on presentation as first impressions often translate into higher offers.
✅ Timing & Life Stage Should Guide Strategy
If 2026 is expected to see slightly more activity (according to some forecasts) but also more competition, then prep work becomes even more vital.
Tip: Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, incorporate your next move into your plan before going to market, so you're ready when the right buyer arrives.
Market Risks & Watch-Points
Affordability remains a constraint. With wage growth lagging and rates holding above historical norms, some buyers will stay on the sidelines.
Geographic variation will be significant. Some metro areas may outperform (or underperform) the national average i.e. local market dynamics will matter a lot.
Macroeconomic surprises still loom. Inflation, regulatory changes, and global events could shift forecasts mid-year. Use them as a guide, not a guarantee.
How The Mavins Group Helps You Navigate 2026
We provide personalized real-estate planning that looks at your goals (first-home, investment property, legacy holding) and maps them into a tangible strategy.
We help you prepare or present your home with staging, organizing, and move-management support, so you’re ahead of the curve in a price-growth-modest market.
We monitor local data & trends continuously, helping you understand when to act, when to wait, and how to position yourself based on your life stage.
Final Thoughts
2026 looks less like a runaway boom and more like a steady climb, one where preparation, budget discipline, and strategy will matter more than hoping for massive price jumps. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, let this be your year to act intentionally rather than react to the market.
👉 Ready to talk about what 2026 means for you? Reach out to The Mavins Group today. Let’s build your plan together—and make your next move your smartest one yet.