If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the “perfect moment” to buy a home, this is your wake-up call. New projections from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) are in—and they paint a clear picture: prices are going up, demand is rising, and waiting will cost you.
The Big Headline
NAR is forecasting a 14% jump in existing-home sales in 2026, driven by easing mortgage rates, job strength, and ongoing housing shortages. Even more important: home prices are expected to rise another 4% next year. This isn’t a market heading for discounts. It’s a market building momentum.
Why This Matters Right Now
1. Prices are not dropping — they’re climbing.
2. More buyers are coming.
3. Rates improving means more demand.
4. Supply cannot catch up fast enough.
What This Means for Buyers, Builders & Investors
– Homebuyers: Waiting will almost certainly cost you more.
– Builders & Developers: This is a green-light market.
– Agents: Lead with the data: prices rising = urgency.
– Investors & Flippers: Rising prices boost margins—if you buy early.
Your Built-Different Playbook
1. Get pre-approved now.
2. Run numbers based on rising prices.
3. Lock rate options early.
4. Focus on markets with job growth.
5. Educate your buyers and clients.
Mindset Shift
Discipline beats hesitation. You win by acting when everyone else waits.
Final Word
2026 will not be cheaper. It will be more competitive and more expensive. The buyers who step in now will be sitting on equity next year.
Let’s go win.
— Levi Wanner
