Mortgage rates are expected to settle near 6%, easing the “lock-in effect” and encouraging more homeowners to list their properties.
Housing inventory could rise about 8.9%–12%, giving buyers more options and slightly improving negotiating power.
Home prices are forecast to grow modestly, with most projections ranging from roughly 0% to about 4% in 2026.
Regional trends will vary, with stronger price stability in the Midwest and Northeast and softer conditions possible in parts of the South and West.