Housing Market Forecast: Why 2026 Looks Promising for Buyers & Sellers

If you’ve been watching the real estate headlines lately, you’ve probably seen a little bit of everything. One article says the market is cooling. Another says prices are still rising. So what’s really going on, and what does it mean for your next move?

The truth is, the market is shifting again, and 2026 is shaping up to be a comeback year for real estate.

Here in Kent County and across Delaware, that doesn’t mean a wild boom or a scary crash. It means a smarter, more strategic market, one that rewards buyers and sellers who plan ahead.

The 2026 Comeback: What Experts Are Seeing

According to new projections from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the next couple of years will look something like this:

"2026 is expected to bring more movement, more opportunity, and a more balanced housing market. the kind that rewards preparation, clarity, and strategic decision making."

#1: More Homes Will Sell

NAR’s Chief Economist is forecasting about a 14% increase in existing-home sales in 2026 compared to 2025, plus additional growth in new-construction sales.

After a relatively “stuck in neutral” 2025, we’re expecting more buyers, more movement, and more opportunity.

#2: Prices Are Expected to Keep Rising

Despite what you may hear or even have felt, experts are not calling for a nationwide price drop.

Forecasts show:

• +3% price growth in 2025

• +4% price growth in 2026

This means your equity remains solid and likely continues to grow for at least a little bit more.

#3: Mortgage Rates May Ease... But Don’t Expect 3% Again

Forecasts show mortgage rates likely settling in the 6% range as the market stabilizes. Not the historic lows we all remember, but enough to help ease affordability slightly. After all remember that when the rates fell to 2% - 3% it was carefully crafted in order to stimulate the market.

#4: The Fundamentals Are Still Strong

• Job growth is steady

• Foreclosures remain historically low

• Buyer demand indicators (like purchase applications) have increased year over year

This is a cooling, recalibrating market not a collapsing one.

"IN this market, preparation isn’t optional, it’s your advantage. Homes that are priced right and presented well still sell quickly and profitably. It’s the guesswork that gets expensive."

What This Means for Sellers in Kent County

You live your life locally, so here’s how this affects you if you're considering selling in Kent County or the surrounding Delaware communities.

You Still Have a Strong Equity Position

Values are still rising, just at a more normal pace which means your equity is a strategic asset, especially if you're:

• Moving up

• Considering new construction

• Downsizing

• Planning a relocation

Strategy Matters More Than Ever

Homes that sit too long end up needing reductions:

• 0–14 days → 5%

• 15–30 days → 6%

• 120+ days → 14%

Those numbers matter and proper planning helps you avoid them.

What This Means for Buyers

If you're waiting for a crash or 3% rates to return, the data says that’s not happening.

But if you're positioning for 2026, you may find:

• Slightly lower rates

• More inventory... FINALLY

• A more balanced, less frenzied market. You will have time to think and make decisions you can feel confident in.

The Bottom Line

This is a market for planning, not guessing. Clients who prepare with us as your Real Estate team today will be in the strongest position tomorrow.

And that’s exactly what my team and I help you do. We plan your next move with confidence, clarity, and strategy.

Have questions? Call us directly at 302-346-2719.