Realtor.com Projects Continued Home Price Growth for 2026

Existing-home price growth for 2026 is forecasted to slow from 2.2% to 1.2%, with mortgage rates steady at 6.3%. Home sales are slightly down, and inventory growth is reduced to 3.6%. Affordability improves mainly due to slower price increases rather than lower rates, with monthly mortgage payments expected to fall 1.9%. Rents are predicted to decline 1.2%, easing pressure on renters. Housing momentum may build in the year's second half.