“Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”

— Carl Bard

Meet Corey, our passionate and knowledgeable in-house mortgage officer. He’s here for all of your mortgage questions!

Reasons To Be Optimistic About the 2026 Housing Market

If a move is on your radar for 2026, there’s a lot more working in your favor than there has been in a while.

After a stretch where many people felt stuck, 2026 is shaping up to be a year with more balance, more options, and more clarity for people who want to make a move. Not because the market is suddenly “easy,” but because several key conditions are shifting.

Here’s what the experts are saying you have to look forward to.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com: “After a challenging period for buyers, sellers and renters, 2026 should offer a welcome, if modest, step toward a healthier housing market.”

The National Association of Realtors (NAR): “Top economists have one word to sum up the housing market for 2026: opportunity. Lower mortgage rates and a rising supply of homes are expected to open up the housing market . . . something the real estate industry and potential home buyers and sellers have been waiting for, following three years of stagnation.”

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American: “. . . for the first time in several years, the underlying forces are finally aligned toward gradual improvement. Mortgage rates may drift down only slowly, but income growth exceeding house price appreciation will provide a boost to house-buying power — even in a higher-rate world. Affordability won’t snap back overnight, but like a ship finally catching a steady tailwind, it’s now sailing in the right direction.”

Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Zillow: “Buyers are benefiting from more inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand. Each group should have a bit more breathing room in 2026.”

Why Local Insight Matters More Than Ever

Just remember, while the national outlook is improving, conditions will still be different based on. . .

Are you in search of a property in Middle or East Tennessee with over 5 acres of land or a budget of under $400k? Look no further! We have meticulously curated lists that are updated daily, making the process of finding your dream home even easier.

Meet Corey, our passionate and knowledgeable in-house mortgage officer. He’s here for all of your mortgage questions!

Here are properties that have recently dropped in price in Tennessee. We update this list DAILY to keep you informed.

Tickets are officially LIVE for the SNR Cares Winter Gala! ✨ This Valentine’s-themed evening is perfect for a special date night while giving back to a cause that truly matters. 💚 Join us for a night of great food, music, and community as we come together to support the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center and help protect and empower children in our area. RSVP and secure your spot below. 👇

Upcoming Upper Cumberland Events!

• Sawmill Poetry's Openmicstravanganza! - Monday, Jan 5th, 7 PM - 8:30

• Repair and Mend Sewing Class at Wonderfill - Monday, Jan 19th, 6 PM - 7 PM

• The Bend Class: Lower Back Intensive at A Better Me - Friday, Jan 9th, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

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Upcoming East Tennessee Events!

• 7th Annual Hike to Remember "22" - Saturday, Jan 10th, 7:30 AM - 12 PM

• BUZZED! Adult Spelling Bee - Friday, Jan 9th, 7 PM

• Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert - Saturday, Jan 10th, 8 PM

• An Evening in Narnia at Ancient Lore Village - Friday, Jan 16th, 6 PM