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2026 Feels Like a “Breathing Room” Year — and That Matters

If the last few years of real estate have felt like constant whiplash—multiple offers, rushed timelines, pricing surprises—you’re not imagining it.

But one line from Zillow’s latest outlook really stuck with me:

Buyers are seeing more inventory and improving affordability. Sellers are seeing more price stability and more consistent demand. And as Zillow’s Chief Economist Mischa Fisher put it, “Each group should have a bit more breathing room in 2026.”

And honestly? That’s the kind of market a lot of people have been waiting for.

What “more breathing room” can look like (in real life)

In a calmer, healthier market, you may notice things like:

  • More choices to compare before making a decision (instead of “take it or lose it”).

  • Less panic bidding and fewer emotional snap decisions.

  • More balanced negotiations—repairs, timelines, contingencies, and terms become part of the conversation again.

  • Steadier pricing (not necessarily “cheap,” but less wild swings week to week).

That doesn’t mean every town or every price point will behave the same way—real estate is always local. But nationally, the shift Zillow describes is toward a market that feels more normal than what we’ve all gotten used to.


If you’re buying in 2026

This kind of market rewards people who move thoughtfully.

Instead of racing, you can focus on:

  • the layout that fits your day-to-day

  • the location that matches your life right now

  • and a payment that feels sustainable

You don’t have to “win” a house. You just have to choose the right one.


If you’re selling in 2026

A steadier market can actually be a good thing—especially if you want predictability.

The sellers who tend to do best are the ones who:

  • price with the market (not with last year’s headlines)

  • prep the home well

  • and make it easy for buyers to say yes

Buyers may be a little more selective when they have options—but serious demand is still there, and Zillow expects that demand to stay more consistent.


My take for Georgia’s small towns

In small-town markets, the biggest advantage is usually clarity—knowing what’s actually happening on your street, not just what’s happening nationally.

If a move is on your radar this year (even as a “maybe”), this is a great time to:

  • watch what’s sitting vs. selling quickly

  • track price changes in your exact area

  • and build a plan that fits your life—not just the market

If you want, message me your town + your “maybe” timeline, and I’ll tell you what I’m seeing locally—no pressure, just real context.

Work With Ansley

Born and raised in the peach state, I take pride in what I do and genuinely enjoy helping my clients. Let me be your go-to gal in real estate and help you personally through the process!