As we begin another new year, the stage is set for fresh opportunities and emerging trends in the real estate market. From shifting affordability to bold design statements, here’s what to watch for in the year ahead.
Interest Rates And Home Costs
Mortgage rates are likely going to hover around 6.3% according to Realtor.com. Existing-home sales should see a small gain from 2025, as a 1.7% increase is expected. Inventory is also projected to continue climbing in the upcoming year, opening up more options for homebuyers, easing competitive pressure and giving buyers more room to negotiate.
Affordability is similarly forecasted to continue improving in 2026 as wages outpace inflation. This means buyers should gain more leverage in many markets. Ultimately, these forecasts signal a more balanced market is on the horizon with improved accessibility and more transactions.
Smarter Selling Techniques
The real estate industry is set to be more tech driven in 2026. Experts are on track to develop more realistic augmented reality and virtual property tours for those shopping from long distances, allowing prospective buyers to gain a true sense of the home without actually being there.
According to Forbes, virtual staging has become far more convincing than it used to be thanks to the power of AI. More budget-conscious sellers are poised to utilize AI staging tools in 2026 to help make their listings stand out, and leave a lasting first impression. This type of innovation offers a more cost-effective way to showcase homes on the market, without sacrificing the polished look and inviting feel provided by traditional staging.
Design Trends
According to Zillow, 2025 saw a notable shift in listing descriptions with the rise of “color drenching.” This trend, where homeowners paint walls, ceilings and trim in one bold hue, is likely to continue in 2026.
While saturated tones continue to make waves in real estate, the design world is slated to embrace softer, more simple hues. Pantone recently announced its Color of the Year for 2026: Cloud Dancer (11-4201), described as a soft, serene, white. The Associated Press describes Pantone, a limited liability company that influences global design trends, as “the world’s authority on color.” Cloud Dancer may appear minimal compared to bolder hues, but it symbolizes renewal and calmness. The color can also serve as a reminder that simplicity never goes out of style!
The upcoming year is anticipated to bring steady growth, fresh trends, increased tech innovation and a healthier housing market for both buyers and sellers. Ultimately, no matter what the market brings, AmeriHome will be here to guide you every step of the way.
Looking to start saving today on your home loan? Let’s upgrade your mortgage and put money back in your wallet with a new Purchase or Refinance Loan.*
6 Money-Saving Tips To Start Today:
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Pay Off Your Loan Sooner Switch to shorter loan terms to save on interest.* |
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Lower Your Monthly Payment Refinance with longer terms, so more money stays in your wallet.* |
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Consolidate Debt Cash-out to reduce high-interest credit card debt. |
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Pay For Larger Expenses Invest in your home with updates that will yield a higher return should you decide to sell in the future. |
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Get Extra Savings After you have financed a home with us once, save up to $750 on all your future refinances and new home purchase loans with your AmeriWallet Benefits.** |
If you are interested in learning more about how a refinance or new home purchase loan can benefit you, just give us a call at 877.715.9908 or get your instant rate quote here.
Imagine The Possibilities With Your Better Home Loan!
*By refinancing, your total finance charge could be higher over the life of the loan.
**As a member of the AmeriHome family, borrowers are part of the AmeriWallet Rewards program. If you completed a home loan with us once, you will qualify for a $750 lender credit for all of your future refinances or home purchases done with AmeriHome, for any property you own. To qualify for this offer, you must have previously financed the purchase of a home or refinanced with AmeriHome. You have financed with AmeriHome when AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC appears on the previous Promissory Note for your loan, and you are listed as a borrower on the Note. Credits will be applied only if your loan closes with AmeriHome. This offer can not be combined with any other offers and is not applicable for FHA Streamline, or VA IRRRL Refinance transactions. Other restrictions may apply. Terms and conditions are subject to change. AmeriWallet Rewards program is subject to termination without notice. *By refinancing, your total finance charge could be higher over the life of the loan.
