After a few years of stop-and-go housing activity, experts are forecasting that home sales are expected to rise in 2026. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines—whether as a buyer, seller, or investor—this could be your year to make a move.
Why Sales Are Set to Climb
Several factors are lining up:
Interest Rate Relief: Mortgage rates are projected to ease slightly as inflation cools. Even a half-point drop can unlock affordability for thousands of buyers.
Pent-Up Demand: Many families postponed moves in 2024–2025. Expect them to re-enter the market, especially first-time buyers and move-up families.
New Inventory: Builders are responding to buyer demand with more entry-level and move-up homes, creating better choices for buyers and fresh comps for sellers.
What Buyers Should Know
Competition is coming back, so locking in a home early in 2026 could mean less bidding pressure.
Creative financing (buy-downs, VA/first-time buyer programs, and adjustable options) will play a huge role.
What Sellers Should Know
Rising buyer activity means your pool of potential buyers will grow.
Updated pricing strategies will be critical—homes positioned well will move faster than they did in 2024–2025.
Preparing your home with turnkey upgrades and strong digital marketing will give you a competitive edge.
What Investors Should Know
More sales = more rental demand as mobility increases.
Watch for opportunities in growing submarkets like Southwest Riverside County, where affordability still beats San Diego and Orange County.
Bottom Line
2026 is shaping up to be a turning point in real estate. Buyers will finally see more opportunities, sellers will find stronger demand, and investors will have new chances to grow their portfolios.
