February 7, 2026 | MB Daily News | Los Angeles CA
Zillow 2026 Housing Market Forecast: What Buyers & Sellers Should Expect
By One West Realty | Raleigh, NC
Zillow’s latest outlook points to a steadier U.S. housing market in 2026—with modest home-value growth, improving affordability in some metros, and slightly higher sales activity compared to recent years. For buyers and sellers in the Raleigh area, this can mean more strategy, more negotiation, and better planning.
Key takeaways from Zillow’s 2026 outlook
- Home prices: Expected to grow modestly in 2026 (forecasts can change as conditions shift).
- Home sales: Zillow projected a gradual rebound in transactions as affordability improves.
- Mortgage rates: Likely to ease slowly, remaining elevated versus pre-2020 norms.
- Rents: Zillow’s outlook suggests rent growth may cool in many areas, improving renter affordability.
What this means for Raleigh buyers
When the market becomes more balanced, buyers often gain leverage in practical ways: more choices, fewer bidding wars, and increased flexibility on terms. If inventory improves locally, buyers may have better opportunities to negotiate.
Buyer strategies that can work well in 2026
- Build a payment plan: Compare scenarios like points, buy-downs, and different loan terms.
- Negotiate beyond price: Ask for closing credits, repairs, or timeline concessions when possible.
- Stay ready: Strong pre-approval and quick document turnaround still matter in competitive pockets.
What this means for Raleigh sellers
A calmer market can still be strong for sellers, but it rewards smart pricing and excellent presentation. With more listings competing for attention, homes that are staged, repaired, and priced accurately tend to sell faster.
Seller priorities in a steadier 2026 market
- Price to today’s comps: Focus on current neighborhood-level sales, not old peak headlines.
- Improve first impressions: Clean, declutter, refresh paint, and address obvious repairs.
- Use incentives wisely: Consider closing cost credits or rate buy-down contributions when it improves results.
2026 forecast snapshot
Use this quick framework to interpret national trends and apply them locally:
| Indicator | What it suggests for 2026 | How to use it in Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Home values | Modest growth nationally (updates can vary month to month). | Track neighborhood comps and days on market—micro-markets matter most. |
| Sales volume | Gradual rebound as affordability improves. | Be prepared for returning buyer demand in well-priced segments. |
| Mortgage rates | Likely to remain elevated vs. pre-2020 norms. | Compare payment options and negotiate seller concessions where possible. |
| Rents | Potentially slower rent growth in many areas. | Investors should focus on cash flow, vacancy, and local demand drivers. |
Internal resource
Looking beyond the U.S. market? Explore our investment guide here: San Pedro Sula real estate investment .
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Bottom line
Zillow’s 2026 outlook points to a market that’s more predictable than recent years: modest price movement, a gradual pickup in activity, and affordability that improves slowly—not overnight. If you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest, the smartest approach is combining national trends with local Raleigh data and a clear timeline.
Related reading
For additional perspective on high-end market trends, see: Luxury home sales trends (MB Daily News) .
