Redfin just called it. The housing market will “reset” in 2026…or at least it’ll be the start of it.
Chen Zhao, Redfin’s head of economics research, has 11 predictions she and her team have formulated for the 2026 housing market. A long, slow period of progress could be upon us, as buyers get what they’ve been asking for: better affordability, a more normal market, and the chance to own where there’s work.
But what does this really mean? Will mortgage rates fall? Will home prices drop? We’re going through each of the 11 predictions with Chen, discussing prices, rates, rents, refinances, transaction volume, and even how AI could become the “matchmaker” for Americans looking for their first or next property.
Make no mistake, this is good news for many, and could be just the start of a cycle that finally puts average Americans in the position to purchase a home. But, for real estate investors and landlords, there could be another big benefit coming in 2026, one that has a direct impact on your cash flow.
Ashley:
Welcome back to another episode of Real Estate Rookie. I’m Ashley Kehr. We are heading into the final stretch of the year. The gifts are piling up under the tree, and while everyone else is winding down for the holidays, we are teaming you up for what could be one of the most important market conversations of the next few years. But before we do that, I want to thank the rookie audience for another wonderful year together. To all the guests that have taken the time to share their story, successes, and lessons learned, the rookies listening wouldn’t be where they are today without you. I am so inspired all the time by the action taken by you all, the honesty, the vulnerability, and the community. I can’t wait to see what 2026 brings us all. Today’s rerun is from the podcast On The Market. This episode features Redfin’s head of economics research, and she talks about the housing market having a full reset in 2026.
Not a flashy…