If you’ve been asking “Is now a good time to buy or sell a home?”, you’re not alone. Early 2026 data shows some real shifts in the housing market that could create opportunities for both buyers and sellers — especially here in Texas and the broader U.S. market.
🏡 Mortgage Rates Still Relatively Low & Stabilizing
Mortgage rates have been holding steady in the low 6% range, giving buyers more confidence to lock in financing without the extreme highs we saw in recent years — and we may see potential relief if economic pressures continue to ease.
This level makes monthly payments more manageable than they were when rates were above 7%, and economists anticipate rates could stay around these levels throughout 2026.
📉 The Job Market & Rate Expectations
Recent economic data showed a softer jobs report, something many analysts are watching closely. When the labor market cools, the Federal Reserve often becomes more open to interest rate adjustments, which can influence mortgage rates further.
While nothing is guaranteed, buyers in particular should pay close attention — even a small downward shift in rates can mean thousands in savings over the life of a mortgage.
📈 More Inventory = More Opportunities
Home inventory — the number of homes available for sale — has been gradually climbing. That’s good news for buyers who previously faced bidding wars and limited choices. Listings haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms yet, but the trend toward more options continues.
More homes for sale typically leads to:
✔ Less competition for buyers
✔ Greater negotiating power on price and terms
✔ More realistic expectations for sale timing
This is especially true in markets across the South, including parts of Texas where affordability has improved.
🧠 Market Balance Is Improving — Not Peaking
Real estate experts describe 2026 not as a quick rebound, but as a market reset — one where conditions gradually balance between buyers and sellers.
Here’s what that means:
- Home prices may see only modest growth — keeping affordability in reach for motivated buyers
- Sales activity is expected to trend upward moderately
- Mortgage rates likely to hold stable or dip slightly
Affordability overall is improving as wage growth and housing conditions stabilize.
🏠 What This Means for You
🔑 Buyers
- More homes to choose from than in recent years
- Mortgage rates still historically favorable
- Negotiating leverage is improving
If you’ve been waiting for “the right time,” the balance may be tipping in your favor sooner than later.
📈 Sellers
- Buyers are returning as rates stabilize
- More inventory means staging and pricing strategy matters more than ever
- Homes priced correctly are still attracting strong interest
Sellers who prepare their homes well and price them strategically are seeing excellent results in this shifting market.
📌 Bottom Line
The 2026 housing market is shaping up to be more balanced and predictable than the past few years. While dramatic swings aren’t expected, meaningful improvements in affordability, inventory, and mortgage rate expectations are creating real opportunities for both buyers and sellers who act with strategy and timing in mind.