Housing Affordability Could Make Improvements in 2026

Housing affordability may improve slightly in 2026 due to moderating mortgage rates.
Mortgage rates are expected to settle in the low-6% range, easing some buyer pressure.
Home prices will continue rising but at slower, more manageable rates than recent years.
New home construction faces cost, labor, and permitting challenges, slowing single-family starts.
Government policies and builder incentives could influence affordability and buyer opportunities next year.