A recent survey from Talker Research asked Americans to choose one word to describe how 2026 has felt so far. The word that came out on top? Stressful. And honestly, with everything going on, it’s easy to see why.
So, if you’ve been putting off buying or selling because you’re waiting for things to settle down, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: you may already be seeing the stability you’ve been waiting for. While a lot has felt uncertain, the housing market has actually become one of the steadier parts of the economy. Just look at the data.
Home Prices Have Leveled Out
After years of rapid price increases, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that home prices have actually remained surprisingly steady over the past four years. Just take a look at the graph below:
And experts say this steady trend is likely to continue. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at Cotality, explains:
““In 2026, we expect home prices to remain broadly stable, with modest appreciation at a national level.”
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No major ups and downs. Just slow and steady growth. That’s a sign of a healthier market. Of course, things can look a little different depending on where you live, but overall, steady growth makes it easier to plan your next move, whether you’re buying or selling.
The Supply of Homes for Sale Has Steadied
For years, the number of homes for sale has been constantly changing. Inventory dropped sharply during the pandemic, then steadily climbed back up. Now, that growth is starting to level off. According to Realtor.com, inventory today is nearly the same as it was at this time last year. Just take a look at the graph below:
That’s good news whether you’re buying or selling. When the number of homes for sale stays fairly steady, you have a better idea of what to expect, from the number of choices you’ll have as a buyer to the amount of competition you’ll face as a seller.
Mortgage Rates Found Their Range
Yes, mortgage rates jumped sharply in 2022. But since then, Freddie Mac data shows they’ve stayed mostly between 6% and 7% for the past three years or so. Just take a look at the graph below:
Yes, mortgage rates jumped sharply in 2022. But since then, Freddie Mac data shows they’ve stayed mostly between 6% and 7% for the past three years or so. Just take a look at the graph below:
And now that this has become a longer term trend, people are starting to see it as the new normal. Buyers are getting more comfortable purchasing at these rates, and sellers are just as comfortable putting their homes on the market.
That sense of comfort matters because when buyers and sellers know what to expect, they’re more likely to keep moving forward. The market isn’t frozen waiting for something to change. It’s simply moving at a steady, manageable pace.
Bottom Line
The world may feel unpredictable right now, but the housing market doesn’t have to. Home prices, inventory, and mortgage rates have all settled into a more stable pattern.
If you’ve been waiting for a more stable market, you may not have to wait any longer. Let’s connect and talk about what today’s market could mean for your next move.
