After a few years of the housing market feeling like it was stuck in neutral, 2026 might be the year things start moving again. Experts predict more people will be on the move, which could create new opportunities for you to make a move too.

More Homes Will Sell

With all the affordability issues we've seen over the past few years, a lot of people thinking about moving have hit the pause button. But that break won’t last forever. There are always folks who need to relocate, and experts believe even more will start making moves in 2026 (see graph below).

So, what’s driving this shift? Two main things: mortgage rates and home prices. Let’s take a closer look at the latest expert predictions for each, so you can understand why more people are likely to be on the move next year.

Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Ease

Almost every buyer we talk to says the top thing they want is to see mortgage rates come down. After hitting close to 7% earlier this year, those rates have finally begun to ease a bit.

The latest forecasts suggest this trend might carry on through 2026, but it won’t be a smooth, steady decline (check out the graph below).

The newest forecasts suggest this trend might keep going through 2026, but it won’t be a steady drop. (Check out the graph below for details.)

You can expect mortgage rates to improve a bit over the next year, but keep in mind there will be some ups and downs along the way as new economic data comes in. Don’t get too caught up in the short-term fluctuations—the bigger picture shows a gradual decline. Experts predict rates could drop into the low 6% range, maybe even reaching the high 5% range.

Keep in mind, you don’t need a huge drop to notice a difference. Even a small decrease can improve your bottom line.

If you look at where mortgage rates are now compared to when they were at 7% earlier this year, you’re already saving hundreds on your future monthly payment. That’s a big deal and can really improve affordability for many buyers.

Home Price Growth Will Be Moderate

When it comes to prices, the outlook nationwide is that they’ll continue to go up, but only modestly. Since interest rates have dropped from their highs earlier this year, more buyers are expected to jump back into the market. That extra demand will help keep prices from falling and will maintain some upward pressure overall.

Even though a few markets are starting to show small price drops, there’s no need to worry about a major crash. Because home prices went up so much over the past five years, even the areas with declines are still worth more than they were a few years ago.

Price trends really come down to where you live and what's going on in your local market. Inventory plays a huge role in why some areas will experience different rates of appreciation moving forward. That said, experts agree that, overall, home prices are expected to rise nationwide (check out the graph below).

This is great news for buyers and overall affordability. Although prices will continue to rise across the country, the increase will be more gradual and manageable. This steady pace makes it easier to plan your budget and helps you feel confident that prices won’t suddenly spike unexpectedly.

Bottom Line

After a relatively quiet few years, 2026 looks like it’s going to pick up with more activity and opportunity. Sales are expected to increase, mortgage rates are heading down, and price growth is slowing, all setting the scene for a stronger, more dynamic market.

Are you ready to be one of the people who make 2026 their year to move?

Reach out whenever you’re ready to get started.