Strategic Long-Term Outlook
Mid-Year Update: May 1, 2026
The Big Picture
The real estate market is currently finding its footing after several years of slower activity. While total sales have been lower than usual recently, the underlying wealth in housing is at an all-time high. Nationally, the value of all homes has surpassed $50 Trillion. In our local market, inventory remains tight because many homeowners are staying in their current homes longer than they used to, which keeps supply low and supports property values.
What to Expect for the Rest of 2026
Expert projections suggest that we will see more activity as the year progresses. However, initial forecasts have been impacted by global events:
- Sales Volume: A projected 14% increase in home sales as inventory slowly returns.
- Home Prices: A projected 4% rise in median values due to continued supply constraints.
- Mortgage Rates: Rates were expected to settle near 6.0%, but the Iran War has kept rates remaining more elevated than initially projected.
Who is Buying Today?
The average age and financial profile of buyers has shifted significantly over the last few years.
- FTB Share21% (All-Time Low)
- FTB Age40 (All-Time High)
- Repeat Age62 (All-Time High)
Source: NAR 2025 Profile
Equity and Money
Homeowners are in a very strong financial position, with personal equity at record levels.
- FTB Downpmt10% (High since ’89)
- Repeat Downpmt23% (High since ’03)
- Home Wealth$40T (Peak Valuation)
Source: Federal Reserve/NAR
National Trends
Shifting economic conditions are affecting how long people stay in their homes and national household data.
- Seller Tenure11 Yrs (All-Time High)
- Buyers w/ Kids24% (National Trend)
- Job Growth1.3M (2026 Forecast)
Source: NAR 2025 Profile
Fiduciary Guidance
In a market where homeowners are staying put for 11 years on average, selling a home requires a precise strategy. I combine these national insights with real-time local data to ensure your home is positioned correctly. We account for these financial and demographic shifts in The Listing Method to protect your equity and achieve the best possible results.
