We Called It

Thinking the market was headed for another massive appreciation boom in 2026? This episode is your reality check. While headlines and early forecasts pointed toward double-digit home price growth, the market is telling a very different story and understanding why matters whether you are buying, selling, or financing a home right now.

In this episode, we break down the recent revision to national housing projections and what is actually happening behind the scenes with mortgage rates, inventory, buyer demand, and affordability. Using real-world examples from both the mortgage and real estate side, we unpack why the market feels competitive in some situations and slow in others, and why strategy matters more than ever in today’s environment. If you are trying to navigate today’s housing market, this conversation gives you the clarity you need to make smarter decisions with confidence.

We cover:

• Why the original 14% home appreciation forecast for 2026 was unrealistic
• The updated projection for home prices and what shifted in the market
• How mortgage rates, oil prices, and job growth are impacting housing trends
• Why a four-month inventory supply is actually considered a healthy, normal market
• What buyers need to understand about competitive offer situations in today’s market
• Why working with an experienced realtor and mortgage broker matters more than ever
• The misconception around locking a mortgage rate before getting into contract
• How quickly mortgage pricing can change even before an offer is accepted
• The strategy behind when to lock a rate versus waiting for market shifts
• How buying down a rate or refinancing later can fit into a long-term financial plan
• Why chasing the “lowest rate” online can sometimes hurt buyers more than help them
• The importance of balancing affordability, qualification, and closing successfully in today’s market

Connect with us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@therealestateplaybyplay

Website: https://therealestateplaybyplay.com