It’s easy to get caught up in click-bait headlines, but here’s what’s actually happening in real estate right now—straight facts, no hype:
1. Inventory Is Finding Its Balance
If you’re scrolling online, it might feel like there are zero homes for sale—but that’s not the full picture. While inventory is still on the lean side, it’s been steadily improving. We’ve been hovering around 4.6 months of inventory, which is right in line with pre-pandemic 2019 levels. That puts us in what’s considered a balanced market (typically 4–6 months). Looking ahead to 2026, experts expect inventory to hold steady or even increase slightly—good news for both buyers and sellers.
2. Mortgage Rates Are Easing, Not Spiking
Those ultra-low 2–3% rates were a once-in-a-generation response to the pandemic—and they’re not coming back. The good news? The near-8% rates we saw over the past couple of years appear to be behind us, too. Today, rates are hovering around 6.2% and are projected to remain fairly stable through 2026, offering more predictability for buyers planning their next move.
3. Homeownership Is Still Going Strong
Despite what the doom-scrolling might suggest, homeownership remains resilient, holding steady around 65% nationwide. It peaked near 68% in 2020 and has only dipped slightly since. And here’s a stat that really matters: on average, homeowners have 43 times the wealth of non-homeowners. That long-term value is a big reason demand remains strong—especially from first-time buyers and those ready for their next chapter.
The opportunity is there. The key right now is smart guidance—finding the right home and exploring creative financing options that help buyers move forward with confidence. And that’s where an experienced local real estate professional truly makes all the difference. For more information and to get signed up for custom home searches, be sure to visit OUR SITE!
