The 2026 housing market is already taking shape, and buyers and homeowners in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex are asking one big question: Will it finally get easier to make a move?
As we analyze the 2026 housing market, understanding the trends becomes essential.
The 2026 housing market is expected to show more stability as we head into the new year.
The latest national forecasts from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), Realtor.com, and Zillow point to a slow but meaningful improvement in housing market conditions.
We’re not looking at a dramatic reset. But it is a step toward balance.
Here’s what the experts expect, and how it could impact your plans for 2026.
Experts forecast that the 2026 housing market will provide better opportunities for buyers.
In analyzing the 2026 housing market, one must consider the various economic factors at play.
Table of Contents
Sales Activity and Insights on the 2026 Housing Market: Slow Improvement, Not a Surge
All three forecasts show more home sales ahead nationwide in 2026 as affordability gradually improves, although their projections vary. Zillow expects the strongest growth, NAR sees a solid rebound, and Realtor.com is more cautious but still trending upward.
National experts expect:
- NAR: A 14% increase in home sales
- Zillow: A 4.3% increase to about 4.26 million total sales, with pent-up demand releasing as more buyers return to the market
- Realtor.com: A 1.7% increase in existing home sales to about 4.13 million.
Looking at the forecasts for the 2026 housing market, we can anticipate a shift.
Realtor.com’s more modest prediction stems from their expectation of persistent low turnover because four out of five homeowners have mortgage rates below 6%
In the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, the pace of change may vary. Watching how quickly new listings go under contract is one of the clearest signals of shifting demand.
Home Prices: Still Rising, With a Bit More Relief
Prices are still expected to rise, though not at the breakneck pace seen during the pandemic. Waiting for a significant price drop isn’t likely to pay off. For homeowners, continued equity growth is a significant advantage.
National forecasts show:
- Prices rising between 1.2%(Zillow) and 4%(NAR)
- More markets are maintaining price stability as fewer cities see declines
- Fewer large markets posting price drops: from 24 in 2025 to 12 in 2026 (Zillow)
Homeowners in Dallas/Fort Worth can still expect strong resale value, while buyers may find a little more negotiation power.
Mortgage Rates: Better Than 2025, Not Returning to 3%
All forecasts expect rates to hold above 6% in 2026, though comfortably below the early-2025 highs. Improving affordability should help more buyers get back into the game.
Next, we should examine the implications of the 2026 housing market on local economies.
As we delve deeper into the 2026 housing market, it’s crucial to weigh the options available.
National experts expect:
- A roughly 6.3% average mortgage rate in 2026 (Realtor.com)
- Gradual improvement, but definitely no return to 3% rates (NAR and Zillow)
- More buyers reentering the market as payments become more manageable (Zillow)
Granted, these forecasts don’t account for unexpected catastrophes (like a pandemic), which is why a return to 3% mortgage rates is not on the menu.
All that to say, if you’re buying in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in 2026, connecting with a lender early helps you understand what’s possible with your budget.
Inventory: More Choices, Still Below Normal
Supply’s growing again after years of record-low inventory. More homes coming to market benefits everyone. Buyers get more options and sellers get healthier demand.
National forecasts predict:
The evolving trends observed in the 2026 housing market could redefine buyer expectations.
- 8.9% increase in existing home inventory
- Months of supply averaging 4.6 months, pointing to a balanced market
- Builders offering rate buydowns and incentives to keep new homes moving
In the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, increased inventory may relieve some buyer competition, but standing out still matters when you’re making an offer.
Affordability: A Slow Shift in the Right Direction
For the first time in a while, affordability trends are moving toward buyers. It doesn’t mean housing will suddenly feel cheap, but it does mean more people can stay in the market.
National indicators show:
- The typical payment share of income dropped to 29.3% in 2026, the first dip below 30% since 2022
- More first-time buyers can qualify as conditions ease
- Rent affordability is improving, helping renters save faster for a down payment
If you’re renting in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, this could be the window to start prepping for ownership.
Furthermore, the 2026 housing market indicates a potential shift in buyer demographics.
As the 2026 housing market evolves, affordability will play a key role in decision-making.
What It Means If You Want to Buy
Minor improvements add up when you are trying to secure your first or next home. Buyers in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex can take advantage of:
- Slightly lower borrowing costs
- More homes to choose from
- Less intense competition than in the past few years
The most critical move is to get a clear picture of your price range and timeline early. That gives you leverage when the right home hits the market.
What It Means If You Want to Sell
Sellers are still in a strong position. Prices are still rising, and equity remains a powerful tool. But as buyers become more payment-sensitive, pricing strategy matters.
Sellers in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex benefit from:
In conclusion, the upcoming changes in the 2026 housing market will affect many potential buyers.
- Strong resale values supported by demand
- A growing pool of buyers who can now afford to move
- Solid equity gains to put toward the next chapter
If a move better supports your lifestyle or finances, 2026 could be a smart time to take action.
Bottom Line
As we forecast the 2026 housing market, insights will guide both buyers and sellers.
If you want to explore your options and build a smart strategy for 2026, reach out anytime. I live for these strategy sessions, and I would love to help you get closer to your home-related goals for the coming year.
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