As we look ahead to 2026, the real estate market is shaping up to be a year of opportunity and balance after several years of uncertainty. According to the National Association of REALTORS® 2026 housing forecast, buyers and sellers should prepare for positive market shifts, thoughtful decision-making, and locally driven outcomes that vary depending on your region.
📈 What the National Forecast Says
Here’s a snapshot of the national outlook for 2026:
1. Home Sales Are Set to Increase
NAR economists are forecasting a 14% increase in existing home sales in 2026 compared to the past few stagnant years. This suggests more buyers returning to the market and more transactions flowing through—good news for sellers and agents who have been waiting for momentum to build.
2. Inventory and Affordability Get Better, Not Perfect
While inventory levels are expected to remain below historical norms, they should improve enough to offer more choices for buyers. Mortgage rates are also projected to ease toward around 6%, creating an environment where buyers have a bit more power than they did in recent years. We do not have a crystal ball but time will tell.
3. Prices Will Continue to Rise—but Moderately
NAR predicts home prices will grow by about 4% nationally, indicating that values continue to increase—but at a more sustainable pace than in the past decade.
4. Local Markets Still Matter Most
National trends offer a big-picture view, but you can expect different conditions depending on where you live. While some regions may experience a fast-moving market with rising prices and limited supply, others may enjoy more balance and negotiating leverage.
🏘 What This Means for Buyers
If you are looking to buy a home in New Jersey or Metro Atlanta:
✅ More inventory means more options.
The forecast points to growing inventory in 2026, which can give buyers more to explore and consider.
✅ Buying is still competitive.
A rebound in activity means serious buyers need strategy, patience, and a keen understanding of local market nuances—especially in areas with strong demand like Northern New Jersey and Metro Atlanta.
🏡 What This Means for Sellers
Sellers should also take confidence in the 2026 forecast:
📌 Balanced markets favor prepared sellers.
With more inventory and a more stable pace of sales, properly priced and well-presented homes are likely to get attention and offers.
📌 Price strategy will be vital.
A moderate price increase outlook suggests that homes listed at fair market value, and backed by strong marketing and staging, can stand out—even as buyers gain a bit more negotiating power.
📌 Local expertise wins.
Because conditions such as school districts, neighborhood desirability, and lifestyle amenities vary widely, working with a local expert ensures that your pricing and timing strategy reflects real market behavior.
📍 Why Local Matters — Especially in New Jersey & Metro Atlanta
The national forecast provides a strong baseline, but real estate is hyper-local. New Jersey’s diverse markets—whether suburban luxury, commuter-friendly towns, or waterfront communities—respond differently than urban or exurban areas in Metro Atlanta. Here’s how I help you navigate both:
✨ Data-driven pricing tailored to your neighborhood
✨ Insight into where buyers are most active
✨ Marketing that speaks to lifestyle—not just square footage
✨ Guidance that aligns with your goals, not just market trends
Whether you’re preparing to sell a luxury home or looking for your next dream address, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in this market.
💬 Final Thoughts
2026 is shaping up to be a balanced and opportune year for real estate, with improving affordability, more inventory, and steady price growth. But the difference between a good outcome and a great one comes down to strategy, preparation, and expert
If you are buying, selling, relocating, or just wondering “Is now the right time for me?”—I’m here to break it down for your specific goals and your local market.
📩 Reach out today and let’s make 2026 your best real estate year yet.
