Why 2026 Looks Promising for the Housing Market
Insights from Benson & Mangold Real Estate on Maryland’s Eastern Shore
If a move is on your radar for 2026, there’s more working in your favor than there has been in quite some time.
After several years of uncertainty, the housing market is beginning to find its footing. At Benson & Mangold Real Estate, we’re seeing signs that 2026 will bring more balance, more opportunity, and greater clarity for buyers and sellers alike—not because the market is suddenly “easy,” but because key conditions are shifting in a healthier direction.
What the Experts Are Saying
National housing economists are echoing what many in the real estate industry have been anticipating:
Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, notes that after a challenging period, 2026 should represent a modest but meaningful step toward a healthier housing market.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) describes 2026 with one word: opportunity. With mortgage rates expected to ease and housing inventory gradually rising, long-awaited movement could return after several years of stagnation.
Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, points out that income growth is beginning to outpace home price appreciation. While affordability won’t improve overnight, buyer purchasing power is expected to strengthen steadily—creating momentum in the right direction.
According to Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Zillow, buyers are benefiting from increased inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand—giving both sides more room to move forward in 2026.
Why Local Insight Matters More Than Ever
While the national outlook is improving, real estate remains highly local.
Market conditions will continue to vary by region, community, and neighborhood. As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains, 2026 is expected to be one of the most geographically divided housing markets in years, with performance closely tied to local economic conditions.
On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, factors such as waterfront demand, seasonal inventory, second-home purchases, and local growth trends all influence the market. Understanding how national trends translate locally is essential when making real estate decisions.
Bottom Line
The outlook for 2026 is encouraging, but the right strategy depends on your goals and your local market. To better understand what these trends mean for the Eastern Shore—and how they may impact your plans—contact our agents to learn more.
Our team at Benson & Mangold Real Estate is here to provide trusted local insight and guidance every step of the way.
