Patti McCormick

The market is shifting into a clearer 2026 landscape, with several regions—especially the Rust Belt—showing steady growth and strong buyer demand.

Rising inventory in Sun Belt markets is opening new opportunities, giving buyers better prices and stronger negotiating power than in recent years.

Midwest and Northeast affordability continues to support resilient demand, helping these regions maintain positive momentum into 2026.

With regional trends becoming more predictable, buyers and builders can move forward with greater clarity and confidence across a diversifying market.

U.S. Housing Market Entering a New 2026 Advantage?

Portable mortgages let homeowners transfer an existing low-rate loan to a newly purchased property.

When upgrading to a pricier home, borrowers must cover cost differences with cash or higher-rate loans.

The U.S. lacks portable mortgages due to long loan terms and reliance on mortgage-backed securities.

Portability works abroad because shorter mortgage terms reduce risk of decades-long interest-rate commitments.

While helpful for current owners, portable mortgages may raise home prices and offer minimal benefit to newcomers.