2026 Real Estate Market Predictions | What are your Real Estate Goals?

Here is the outlook for the 2026 Real Estate market based on the 3 well-known Real Estate resources. Of course, no one has a crystal ball, but the predictions for the coming year will surprise you. Inman News, Realtor.com, and Zillow had a lot to say. Lastly, how do we see the coming year along with the National Association of Realtors?

Inman News Forecast for the 2026 Real Estate Market
As we look ahead to 2026, Inman News—a leading authority in real estate industry insights—provides an optimistic yet realistic forecast for the housing market. Their analysis highlights several key trends and factors that will shape the market, offering valuable guidance for buyers, sellers, and investors planning their next moves.

Realtor.com Forecast for the 2026 Real Estate Market
Looking ahead to 2026, Realtor.com offers an insightful forecast that paints a promising picture for the real estate market. Their analysis focuses on key trends that will influence home prices, inventory, and buyer behavior, helping you make informed decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or investing.

Zillow Forecast for the 2026 Real Estate Market
As we look toward 2026, Zillow’s forecast offers valuable insights into the real estate market’s trajectory, helping buyers and sellers prepare for what lies ahead. Zillow’s data-driven approach highlights key trends that will shape the housing landscape, providing a clear picture of opportunities and challenges. Zillow predicts that home prices will continue to appreciate through 2026, but at a more moderate and sustainable rate compared to the rapid increases seen in previous years. This steady growth supports a balanced market, making it more accessible for buyers while still benefiting sellers.

1.  📈 Will there be Market Growth & Price Appreciation?
INMAN NEWS
Steady Market Growth with Moderate Price Appreciation
Inman predicts that the real estate market will continue to grow steadily through 2026, with home prices appreciating at a moderate pace. Unlike the rapid spikes seen in recent years, this more balanced growth is expected to create a healthier market environment, reducing the risk of bubbles and making homeownership more accessible.

REALTOR.COM
Moderate Home Price Growth
Realtor.com anticipates that home prices will continue to rise through 2026, but at a more moderate and sustainable pace compared to the rapid increases seen in recent years. This steady appreciation helps maintain market stability and makes homeownership more attainable for a wider range of buyers.

ZILLOW
Moderate Home Price Appreciation
Zillow predicts that home prices will continue to appreciate through 2026, but at a more moderate and sustainable rate compared to the rapid increases seen in previous years. This steady growth supports a balanced market, making it more accessible for buyers while still benefiting sellers.



2. 🏦 What is expected with Interest Rates and Financing?
INMAN NEWS
Interest Rates & Financing Trends
While interest rates may fluctuate, Inman forecasts that they will remain relatively stable, supporting continued buyer activity. Lenders are also expected to offer more innovative financing options, helping a broader range of buyers enter the market.

REALTOR.COM
Interest Rates & Financing Outlook
While interest rates may experience some fluctuations, Realtor.com expects them to remain relatively manageable, supporting continued buyer activity. Innovative mortgage products and financing options will also help more buyers qualify for homes.

ZILLOW
Impact of Interest Rates
While interest rates may fluctuate, Zillow anticipates they will stay within a range that supports ongoing buyer activity. This stability in financing conditions will help maintain market momentum.



3. 💰 What about Affordability, Housing Supply, & Demand?
INMAN NEWS
Focus on Affordability & Housing Supply Solutions
Addressing housing affordability remains a critical challenge. Inman highlights ongoing efforts by policymakers and developers to increase housing supply through new construction, zoning reforms, and incentives, which will gradually ease inventory shortages.

Inman News expects there to be an increased Demand for Suburban and Secondary Markets. The trend toward suburban living and relocation to secondary markets is expected to persist. Buyers are seeking more space, affordability, and quality of life, driving demand in these areas. This shift opens up new opportunities for investors and developers focusing beyond traditional urban centers.

REALTOR.COM
Shift Toward Affordability, Value, & Housing Supply
Buyers in 2026 are expected to prioritize affordability and value more than ever. This means increased interest in homes that offer good long-term investment potential, energy efficiency, and locations with strong community amenities and access to transportation. One of the most encouraging aspects of Realtor.com’s forecast is the expected improvement in housing inventory. As new construction projects come to fruition and more sellers enter the market, buyers will have more options to choose from, easing the competitive pressure that has characterized recent years.

Realtor.com highlights expect a continued demand in Suburban and Emerging Markets. This is the ongoing appeal of suburban and emerging markets, driven by lifestyle changes and remote work flexibility. These areas are likely to see steady demand, presenting opportunities for both buyers seeking space, investors looking for growth, and sellers looking for a strong selling but negotiable market.

ZILLOW
Shift Toward Affordability & Value
Affordability remains a central theme in Zillow’s forecast. Buyers are expected to focus on properties that offer long-term value, including homes with energy-efficient features, good locations, and potential for future appreciation.

Zillow believes there will be a Gradual Increase in Housing Inventory which is one of the positive signs Zillow points to a gradual increase in housing inventory. As new construction projects progress and more homeowners decide to sell, buyers will find a wider selection of homes, reducing the intense competition that has characterized recent markets.

With a Continued Demand in Suburban and Secondary Markets, Zillow notes that demand will remain strong in suburban and secondary markets, driven by lifestyle changes such as remote work and the desire for more space. These areas are likely to see steady growth, presenting opportunities for both buyers and investors.



4. 🖥️ Will Technology, Sustainability, & Energy Efficiency be Key Buyer Priorities?
INMAN NEWS
Technology and Data-Driven Transactions
Inman emphasizes the growing role of technology in real estate transactions. From virtual tours and AI-powered home searches to blockchain for secure transactions, technology will continue to streamline the buying and selling process, making it more efficient and transparent.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency will be Key Buyer Priorities 2026. Environmental consciousness is becoming a significant factor in home-buying decisions. Properties with energy-efficient features, sustainable materials, and smart home technology are expected to command premium prices and attract more interest.

REALTOR.COM
Technology Enhancing the Home-buying Experience
Technology will continue to play a vital role in shaping the real estate experience. From virtual tours and AI-driven home recommendations to streamlined digital closings, technology will make the process more convenient and transparent for all parties involved.

ZILLOW
Technology and Innovation in Real Estate
Zillow highlights the increasing role of technology in streamlining the home-buying and selling process. From virtual tours to AI-powered home recommendations, technology will continue to enhance the experience and increase market efficiency. Inman

What does this mean for you, and what do we think?
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, build, or invest in 2026, the market outlook, in my opinion, is encouraging. Happy to put 2025 in the rear view mirror and come out strong for 2026. We all need to put the fear factors of 2025 behind us and reach forward with an optimistic plan for our families and our futures. Over time, real estate has consistently proven to be a reliable and time-tested asset for achieving long-term financial goals and securing a stable future. 

There is no right or wrong time to buy or sell. Any market can be navigated with the right information so that you can make informed, rational decisions. The reality is that it is really up to your personal needs. The right time to buy is when you decide to start to create your own personal wealth. With steady price growth, although currently modest, combined with expanding opportunities in emerging markets, and technological advancements simplifying transactions, the real estate landscape is poised for success in 2026 and beyond. 

Working with the right expert is crucial, and an experienced professional who understands these trends, like Ann Milano and the House America Group, can help you navigate the ins and outs of what can be a tricky market with confidence and capitalize on the opportunities ahead.

So with that, I ask you, "What are your real estate goals for 2026?"

What to do next?
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Who is Ann Milano and the House America Group
Overall, Greater Atlanta offers a lifestyle of comfort, convenience, and community, making it a highly desirable place to call home. For those interested in exploring the opportunities within this remarkable community, Ann Milano and the House America Group are here to guide you every step of the way. With a motto of "Luxury at Every Price," Ann and her team are dedicated to helping you find your perfect home in this idyllic setting. Reach out today to discover how you can become part of this extraordinary community.