(Inspired by Redfin’s latest market predictions & a must-watch episode of “On The Market”)

I just finished this powerhouse episode breaking down Redfin’s forecast for a Great Housing Reset in 2026 — and the insights are too important not to share.

Here’s what stood out to me:

📉 Mortgage Rates:
Expect low 6% rates — not the dramatic drops many hope for, but enough to open the door for more movement.

📈 Affordability Slowly Improves:
For the first time in years, home prices are projected to grow more slowly than wages.
This is the start of a long-awaited affordability shift… though the reset could take 5–6 years.

🏡 Sales Will Gently Rise:
Existing home sales may inch from 4.1M → 4.2M, showing cautious confidence returning to the market.

🏘️ Rents Will Creep Up:
With multifamily construction slowing, expect rent pressure in late 2026.

👥 Household Formation Slows:
High costs = more roommates, delayed moves, and quieter household growth.

📜 Affordability Becomes Policy Priority:
We’ll see serious conversations around supply — though local resistance makes change slow.

🔧 Refinance & Renovation Boom:
With rates stabilizing, refi volume could jump 30%, and many homeowners will upgrade rather than uproot.

🌎 Market Winners & Losers:
2026’s hottest markets: NYC suburbs + affordable Midwest metros.
Softer markets: Florida, Texas, and parts of the Sun Belt, influenced by return-to-office trends.

🔥 Climate Migration Quietly Increases:
Within-metro moves driven by climate risk — with insurance premiums as the leading indicator.

🏛️ Industry Reshaping Ahead:
NAR steps back; MLSs step up.
Advocacy becomes the new focus.

🤖 AI Becomes a Real Estate Matchmaker:
Conversational search will help buyers choose where to live and which homes fit their lifestyle.

RI Specific Predictions-

Looking ahead into 2026, the Rhode Island housing market is expected to remain steady and resilient, with home prices projected to grow at a more sustainable 4–6% pace and the statewide median edging toward the $525,000 range. Inventory is showing signs of modest improvement, and paired with easing mortgage-rate pressures, Rhode Island is poised to enter a more balanced market than we’ve seen in years. For buyers, that means slightly less volatility and more strategic opportunity; for sellers, well-priced, well-prepared homes will continue to shine in a landscape where demand still outpaces supply. And this is exactly where expert guidance matters. As a former Brown University varsity athlete, I bring a competitive edge and relentless drive to every transaction. As a former Brookline, MA teacher, I deliver a deeply thorough, detailed, and guided approach that ensures every client feels informed, empowered, and supported from start to finish. If you’re considering a move in 2026, let’s strategize together — with grit, precision, and the Huard Hustle working entirely in your favor.

Bottom Line:

There’s no crash coming — just a slow, steady reset that brings the market back into balance.

As someone immersed in the RI & Southeastern MA markets every single day, this aligns with so much of what I’m experiencing on the ground with buyers, sellers, and homeowners preparing for their next chapter.

If you’re wondering how these trends might shape your 2026 move, I’m here to guide you with the Huard Hustle + Heart. 💙🏡