Some economists expect 2026 to be a year of adjustment for housing rather than a big comeback. The market may steady itself instead of taking off. Be that as it may, real estate mogul and Shark Barbara Corcoran does not believe buyers should feel discouraged.
Barbara Corcoran’s 2026 Housing Forecast
The longtime real estate investor and “Shark Tank” personality says timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible. What matters more is whether a buyer is financially stable and ready to commit. If the budget works and the plan is to stay put for a few years, she sees no reason to wait.
A slower market can even help buyers. There may be less pressure, fewer bidding wars, and more space to negotiate a fair price. If you are prepared and confident, do not let cautious predictions stop you from moving forward.
Rising mortgage costs have made many buyers think twice about jumping into the market. Even so, there is reason to believe some relief could be on the way in the coming year.
Falling Mortgage Rates Could Lift Prices
As of February 5, 2026, as per reports, the average rate on a 30-year fixed home loan stands at about 6.11 percent. That figure is more than a percentage point lower than it was a year ago. Rates are still higher than what buyers saw a few years back. But they have eased compared to last year and may dip a little further in the months ahead.
Why Mortgage Rates Have Stayed High
After years of steep borrowing costs, many prospective homeowners are waiting for a break. Rates climbed to levels not seen in a long time, and that has kept plenty of buyers on edge.
Barbara Corcoran says the rise in rates was part of a deliberate effort by the Federal Reserve to curb inflation. By increasing its main rate, the Fed aimed to slow spending and cool the economy. In her view, that approach has helped steady things.
She does think mortgage rates will ease at some point. She also expects the Fed to keep its benchmark rate steady until inflation is back where officials want it. Until that goal is met, any major decline in borrowing costs is unlikely.
What 2026 Could Mean for Housing Supply, As Per Barbara Corcoran
The housing market in 2026 may feel a little less strained than it has in recent years. More properties are expected to hit the market, which could give buyers options they simply have not had for a while.
Loan rates are still on the higher side, but they are no longer sitting at their recent highs. That alone can make a difference for buyers trying to make the numbers work. Even a small drop can ease the monthly payment and open the door for more people.
Things also seem to be moving toward a more even playing field. Price growth is not likely to take off, and conditions will vary depending on the city. Some areas will still see strong demand and quick sales. Others may give buyers more leverage at the negotiating table. Where you plan to buy will shape your experience more than anything else.
Barbara explained her ideology by adding, “The housing market is strong. Everybody is surprised by it. Houses are not staying on the market. They all sell. One-third of them sell for over the asking price, and there are just not enough houses to go around.”
She further added that, “There’s not a lot [of inventory] out there. House prices are not going to come down. I believe that when the … mortgage rates come down … every buyer on the sidelines is going to jump into the market. As long as interest rates come down to 5% or 4% … I wouldn’t be surprised if houses go up 10 to 15% when that happens.”
Basically, the market may look solid on paper, but it has been tough on buyers. Higher home prices, rising living expenses, and concerns about job stability have left many people stuck with properties they want to sell but cannot easily move.
What Today’s Conditions Mean for Homeowners
Thinking about selling? You’re not stepping into a ghost town. In many neighborhoods, homes are still moving, especially those that look good and are priced carefully.
That said, it’s not the frenzy it once was. More sellers have entered the scene, and buyers are taking their time. The market is starting to even out, but it hasn’t fully settled. If you plan to list, go in with a clear head, price it smartly, and be open to adjusting as you go.
