News Corp’s Realtor.com cuts 2026 sales forecast to 4.10M; price growth at 1.2%
NWS•Realtor.com trimmed its 2026 existing-home sales forecast to 4.10 million units from 4.13 million and cut expected home price growth to 1.2%, trailing inflation. Rental prices are projected to decline 1.2% while average mortgage rates remain at 6.3%, improving affordability for buyers.
1. Forecast Revisions
Realtor.com lowered its 2026 existing-home sales forecast to 4.10 million units, down from 4.13 million in the December outlook, reflecting a 1.0% year-over-year increase rather than the previously projected 1.7%. Median home price growth was revised to 1.2% year-over-year, trailing the expected 4.0% inflation rate and indicating real-term price declines.
2. Mortgage Rates and Affordability
The average mortgage rate forecast remains unchanged at 6.3% for 2026, supporting a projected 1.9% decline in the typical monthly payment compared to last year. Steady rates combined with slower price growth enhance buyer negotiating power and lower the housing cost burden as sellers adjust asking prices upfront.
3. Rental Market Outlook
Rental prices are now forecast to fall by 1.2% in 2026, extending the cooling trend from 2025 and easing overall housing costs. For-sale inventory is seen rising 3.6% year-over-year and single-family housing starts are expected to increase 2.0% to 0.96 million units, contributing to more balanced market conditions.
