Will 2026 Improve Housing Affordability?

In 2026, national home prices are forecast to rise just 0.5%, remaining nearly flat.
Median household incomes are projected to grow about 4%, gradually improving housing affordability.
The price-to-income ratio is expected to ease from above 5x to around 4.9x.
Inventory is forecast to be roughly 15% higher than 2025, giving buyers more options.
Approximately 10 million homeowners with mortgages above 6% may sell, increasing market mobility in 2026.