The Real Estate Market Today: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know in 2026

 

 

The real estate market in early 2026 looks very different than the chaos of the past few years. Instead of frenzy or fear, we’re seeing a more balanced, strategic market—one where knowledge, timing, and local expertise truly matter.

Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just staying informed, here’s a simple breakdown of what’s happening right now and what it means for you.

Mortgage Rates: Lower Than Last Year, Still a Key Factor

Mortgage rates are currently hovering just above 6%, which is noticeably lower than this time last year. While not “pandemic-low,” these rates have brought buyers back into the conversation.

What this means:
Buyers are watching rates closely and acting when dips create opportunity. Even small rate changes can impact monthly payments significantly.

Buyer Demand: Cautious but Active

Buyers are still in the market—but they’re more thoughtful. We’re seeing:

• Strong interest when rates dip

• Fewer emotional decisions

• More focus on value and condition

This creates opportunity for buyers who are prepared and sellers who are priced correctly.

Home Prices: Mostly Stable Nationwide

Nationally, prices are holding steady or rising modestly, not skyrocketing. Appreciation has normalized.

Translation:
This is a healthier market. Well-priced homes still sell. Overpriced homes sit.

Inventory: Slowly Improving, Still Tight

There are more homes for sale than a year ago, but inventory remains limited—especially in desirable neighborhoods.

Many homeowners are still holding onto lower mortgage rates from prior years, which keeps resale inventory constrained.

Days on Market & Negotiation Power

Homes are taking longer to sell than during the frenzy years, which has changed the dynamic:

• Price reductions are more common

• Seller concessions are back

• Buyers have room to negotiate

That said, great homes still move quickly.

New Construction: Where Buyers Have Leverage

New construction has become one of the most buyer-friendly segments of the market.

Builders are often offering:

• Closing cost incentives

• Rate buydowns

• Upgrade credits

For some buyers, new construction currently offers better value than resale.

Regional Differences Matter (A Lot)

Real estate is always local.

In the CSRA / Augusta / Evans / Columbia County area, we’re seeing:

• Stronger performance in Columbia County compared to Augusta proper

• Submarkets behaving very differently even within the same zip code

• Pricing accuracy making or breaking sales

This is where working with a local expert makes all the difference.

What This Means for Sellers

• Pricing matters more than ever

• Presentation and strategy are critical

• Homes that stand out still command strong offers

The market rewards preparation—not guesswork.

What This Means for Buyers

• Preparation gives you leverage

• Watching rates weekly matters

• Opportunities exist, especially with the right guidance

This is a market where smart buyers can win.

The Bottom Line

The 2026 real estate market isn’t crashing—and it’s not overheating. It’s strategic, local, and opportunity-driven.

Those who succeed right now are the ones who understand:

• Their specific neighborhood

• Current buyer psychology

• How to price, negotiate, and time decisions correctly

Ready to Navigate This Market With Confidence?

If you’re considering buying or selling in Augusta, Evans, or Columbia County, working with a local expert matters more than ever.

Ehrin Fairey Real Estate provides clear strategy, honest guidance, and market insight tailored to your exact situation—so you can make confident decisions in any market.

📍 Local expertise
📊 Data-driven strategy
🤝 Service-first approach

Let’s talk through your next move.