Real Estate News 03/20/2026

Pending home sales rose 1.8% in February as mortgage rates briefly dipped near 6%, reflecting resilient demand amid tight inventory and ongoing affordability pressures. Investors should watch how rising rates and inflation influence market momentum in the coming months.

In The News:

Reuters –“U.S Pending Home Sales Rebound in February.“ (03-17-2026)

“Mortgage rates dipped briefly, boosting pending sales, but inventory constraints continue to shape the market..”

The Street –“J.P Morgan Predicts What's Next for Mortgage Rates & the Housing Market“ (02-05-2026)

“J.P. Morgan projects a high-rate, flat-price housing market in 2026, with 30-year mortgage rates staying above 6% and local oversupply, particularly on the West Coast and Sun Belt, shaping affordability dynamics..”

Housing Wire –“2026 Housing Market Sees More Balance as Inventory Rises and Price Growth Slows” (01-21-2026)

“Early 2026 shows a more balanced U.S. housing market, with rising inventory, steady prices, and stronger pending sales signaling healthier conditions for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.””

Forbes –“Housing Policy Inflection Point: What Changes May Impact 2026 ” (01-26-2026)

“2026 brings a housing policy inflection point with bipartisan support for supply-side reforms, but builders still face labor shortages, rising costs, and regulatory pressures that will define success in the year ahead”

Realtor –“The Best Markets for First-Time Homebuyers in 2026 “(01-07-2026)

"Our 2026 analysis identifies the top U.S. markets for first-time homebuyers, focusing on affordability, amenities, and housing availability to help young Americans put down roots and build wealth..”