How the Real Estate Market is Starting to Trend

Fall 2026: What’s Happening in Real Estate?

Hey there, I’m Cody Huelsman, founder of mygoodagent. As someone who’s navigated the market as an agent (and as a dog dad and musician—you’ll hear my guitar before you see my car), I know the question on everyone’s mind these days: where is the market heading this fall?

Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening right now and what you might want to expect if you’re considering buying or selling a home.

Signs of a Shifting Market

Every real estate market cycles—sometimes it’s a seller’s paradise with homes flying off the shelves, sometimes buyers get a little more breathing room. October 2026 is shaping up to show us a bit of both.

Inventory is slowly increasing: There are more homes for sale than there were this time last year, giving buyers more choices. If you’ve been frustrated by competition, things are starting to even out.
Days on market are stretching: Homes aren’t going under contract overnight as often, and sellers are seeing that it might take a little longer to find the right buyer.
Pricing is stabilizing: Instead of those dramatic increases we got used to, prices are growing at a calmer pace—or, in some places, holding steady.

This doesn’t mean the market is stalling or heading for trouble. In fact, a balanced market often means a healthier environment for everyone.

What’s Guiding These Changes?

Several factors are at play, just like always. Mortgage rates, while not as low as a few years ago, have found a consistency that’s helping people plan. Economic confidence is steady enough that sellers are feeling ready to list, but everyone is watching the market to see how quickly homes move.

Lifestyle changes—like job moves, changing family needs, or the search for more space—still drive buyers and sellers. And, of course, the time of year matters: fall often brings a different energy after the rush of spring and summer.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

If you’re thinking about buying:

Explore more listings. With a little more inventory on the market, your home search might feel less rushed.
Get your financing pre-approved. Reach out to a lender to understand your numbers before you shop.
Be ready to act if you find the right place, but know you might have more time to decide.

If you’re looking to sell:

Presentation still counts. Homes that shine—clean, well-staged, with minor fixes handled—are the ones buyers remember.
Pricing is crucial. It’s tempting to shoot high, but setting a smart, realistic price brings more potential buyers to your door.
Stay flexible on timing. With homes taking a bit longer to sell, patience pays off.

The Bottom Line

No matter where the trends go, real estate is about finding what works for you, your family, and your future. Fall 2026 isn’t about big surprises—it’s about steady opportunity, whether you’re settling in for another year or gearing up for a move.