MilAgent Tips For Starting the New Year Strong

2026 Housing Market Predictions: A Year of Stabilization and Modest Growth

As we move into 2026, housing market forecasts from major industry sources suggest a shift toward a more balanced market after several years of tight inventory, high prices, and affordability challenges. While the market is not expected to return to the frenetic pace seen during the pandemic, key indicators point to gradual improvements that could benefit both buyers and sellers.

Price and Sales Trends

Most analysts project modest home price growth in 2026. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) forecasts a roughly 4 percent rise in prices, supported by steady demand and limited supply. Other forecasters expect smaller gains — Realtor.com projects typical home prices increasing around 2.2 percent, while some industry outlooks anticipate even more subdued growth in the 1–2 percent range. National Association of Realtors+1

Importantly, affordability pressures may ease slightly. Rising household incomes combined with slower price growth could make homes more attainable, with Realtor.com forecasting a slight reduction in average mortgage payments as a share of median income. Media | Move, Inc.

Sales activity is also expected to pick up. Several forecasts indicate rising existing-home sales in 2026, with estimates ranging from modest increases of 1–5 percent to more robust gains approaching 10–14 percent year-over-year as mortgage rates trend lower and buyer confidence improves. National Association of Realtors+1

Mortgage Rates and Inventory

Mortgage rates remain a central factor shaping the market. While still elevated compared to pre-pandemic norms, many economists expect rates to moderate toward the low-6 percent range, offering some relief for buyers relative to the highs seen in recent years. Round Table Realty

Housing inventory — a persistent challenge for much of the past decade — is projected to continue its gradual recovery. Inventory gains in 2026 are expected to improve choice for buyers, though levels may still remain below long-term averages. Round Table Realty

Regional and Market Variation

As always, regional dynamics will influence outcomes. Some markets that cooled after pandemic-driven surges may see slower price appreciation or moderate corrections, while areas with strong job growth and sustainable demand are poised for healthier gains. Investopedia

Outlook Summary

Overall, 2026 is widely forecasted to be a year of stability and normalization rather than dramatic expansion or contraction. Modest price growth, improving affordability, slightly lower mortgage rates, and a rising inventory of homes for sale suggest a housing market that is less overheated and more accessible than in recent years. Buyers may find a window of opportunity with more balanced negotiations, while sellers can still benefit from sustained demand and solid price support.

2026 New Year Checklist for Military Realtors

1. Compliance, Credentials, and Education

• Verify active real estate license status and renewal dates for all operating states

• Complete required continuing education (CE) credits early in the year

• Review updates to state and federal real estate regulations effective in 2026

• Reconfirm understanding of:

  • Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)

  • Military Lending Act (MLA)

  • VA loan entitlement and residual income guidelines

• Renew or obtain military-focused certifications (e.g., MRP – Military Relocation Professional)

• Confirm E&O insurance coverage limits and policy expiration dates

2. VA Loan and Financing Readiness

• Review 2026 VA loan limits, funding fee changes, and eligibility updates

• Update lender partner list with VA-experienced loan officers

• Reconfirm processes for:

  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

  • Assumption of VA loans

  • Joint VA loans and non-spouse co-borrowers

• Refresh educational materials explaining VA loan myths vs. realities

• Audit past VA transactions for process improvements

3. Military Market Intelligence

• Review PCS season timelines for major installations in your market

• Track base-specific trends:

  • Housing waitlists

  • On-base vs. off-base demand

  • Rental shortages or surpluses

• Update knowledge of BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) rates for 2026

• Identify upcoming unit deployments, activations, or drawdowns affecting inventory

• Rebuild relationships with housing offices and relocation assistance programs

4. Client Experience and Communication

• Update buyer and seller guides tailored to:

  • Active duty

  • Guard/Reserve

  • Veterans

  • Military spouses

• Review and standardize PCS-friendly timelines and contingency language

• Improve communication protocols for:

  • Deployed clients

  • Clients in different time zones

  • Power of Attorney (POA) transactions

• Refresh intake questionnaires to capture military-specific needs early

5. Marketing and Brand Positioning

• Audit website and marketing materials for accuracy and compliance

• Update messaging to reflect 2026 market conditions

• Highlight military specialization without violating DOD endorsement rules

• Refresh content calendar with:

  • PCS season campaigns

  • VA loan education posts

  • Military spouse and veteran-focused content

• Confirm social media profiles and Google Business listings are current

6. Systems, Tools, and Operations

• Clean and update CRM with military tags (rank, branch, PCS date, referral source)

• Review transaction management workflows for remote closings

• Test e-signature, virtual tour, and video consultation tools

• Review data security practices for handling sensitive military client information

• Set annual KPIs specific to military transactions (VA deals, PCS clients, referrals)

7. Referral Networks and Partnerships

• Re-engage military-friendly vendors:

  • Inspectors

  • Appraisers

  • Property managers

  • Title and escrow officers

• Review referral agreements for RESPA compliance

• Strengthen out-of-area referral network for PCS moves

• Identify new installation-adjacent markets for expansion

8. Financial and Business Planning

• Set 2026 income and transaction goals segmented by military vs. civilian clients

• Review commission structures and brokerage fees

• Plan for PCS season cash flow fluctuations

• Update budget for marketing, travel, and continuing education

• Meet with tax professional to review military-related transaction nuances

9. Risk Management and Contingency Planning

• Review cancellation and termination scenarios common in PCS orders changes

• Update strategies for low appraisals on VA loans

• Prepare scripts for explaining appraisal Tidewater procedures

• Review insurance requirements for military buyers and landlords

• Confirm backup plans for delayed closings due to deployments or orders changes

10. Personal and Professional Readiness

• Set boundaries and availability expectations for high-demand PCS periods

• Schedule time for professional development in military housing trends

• Review stress management and workload capacity for peak seasons

• Reaffirm mission, values, and service standards when working with military clients

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