2026 Housing Market Outlook: Is This the Year the Market Gets Moving Again?

After a couple of years of high rates, hesitant buyers, and sellers sitting tight, 2026 might finally be the reset we’ve been waiting for. Industry experts are predicting more people will make a move this year—and that shift could open the door for you, too.

Whether you’re looking to upsize, downsize, relocate, or simply get back into the market, here’s what you need to know about what’s driving this change—and how it might impact your plans.

📈 More Homes Are Expected to Sell in 2026

Let’s face it—many Charlotte homeowners pressed pause over the last two years. High interest rates, low inventory, and uncertainty kept a lot of would-be movers on the sidelines. But that pause? It’s temporary.

Experts are forecasting a noticeable uptick in home sales this year as life events, market shifts, and pent-up demand bring more buyers and sellers back into the fold.

What’s behind the projected boost? Two key factors: mortgage rates and home prices. Let’s unpack both.

💸 Mortgage Rates Are Trending (Slowly) Down

If you’ve been watching rates, you already know we’ve been on a bit of a roller coaster. After peaking near 7%, rates have started to ease—and while we’re not back to pandemic lows, we’re moving in a better direction.

Here’s what to expect:

• Mortgage rates will likely continue to gradually decline, but it won’t be a straight line.

• Think: stairs, not an elevator—there will be some ups and downs along the way.

• Projections suggest we could land in the low 6% or even high 5% range before the year is out.

Why this matters: Even a small drop in rates can make a significant difference in monthly payments. Compared to the peak, buyers today could already be saving hundreds per month—enough to unlock affordability for many who were previously priced out.

🏠 Home Prices Will Rise—But Not Too Fast

Now, let’s talk pricing. The good news is that while home prices are expected to continue rising, it’s happening at a much more moderate and manageable pace than we’ve seen in years past.

Here’s the big picture:

• No market crash on the horizon.

• National prices will likely rise steadily, thanks to increased demand and limited inventory.

• Local trends will still vary—especially here in Charlotte, where specific neighborhoods (like SouthPark, Myers Park, and Matthews) have their own supply-and-demand dynamics.

What does this mean for you?

• For buyers, slower appreciation = easier budgeting and less pressure to rush.

• For sellers, your home is still likely gaining value—and in a more predictable market, serious buyers are more confident to make offers.

👋 Bottom Line: More Movement = More Opportunity

2026 is shaping up to be a more balanced, more active year in real estate. With home sales expected to rise, mortgage rates trending lower, and home price growth normalizing, there’s finally a bit more breathing room—for everyone.

So the real question is: Are you ready to make your move?

Whether you want to explore your options, get your home ready to list, or find the right neighborhood for your next chapter, The Zahn Group is here to help you plan your next steps with confidence.

📞 Let’s talk about your goals for 2026. No pressure—just smart strategy, tailored to the Charlotte market.


Source: KCM