The U.S. Real Estate housing market in 2026 is expected to continue a slow thaw, not a dramatic rebound.
Affordability is improving unevenly, with gains strongest where supply expands and weakest in constrained regions.
Wage growth and easing mortgage rates supported affordability in 2025, while price growth slowed to the weakest since 2012.
Life events and demographics may lift demand, as 52 million Americans in their 30s drive gradual buying activity.
Inventory rose from 14 to nearly 15 homes per 1,000 households, still below the 25 historic average.
