Barbara Laib - Realtor

Real Estate Market Trends

The Mid-Year Housing Market Update: Why Forecasts Changed in 2026

The housing market hasn’t rebounded as quickly as experts originally hoped. But that doesn’t mean it’s stalled.

Higher inflation and lingering economic uncertainty caused economists to revise their forecasts for this year. But importantly, when those two things settle down, many experts believe the market will regain its momentum.

So don’t see this revision in forecasts as a sign of trouble. See it as a temporary reaction to overall conditions and uncertainty.

If you want to know what’s happening in our local market, and what it could mean for your plans for the rest of this year, let’s connect.

If you want more info, please call or text me at: 920-585-5400.

The Mid-Year Housing Market Update: Why Forecasts Changed in 2026 If the housing market feels confusing right now, you’re not alone.

A quick Google review might feel small, but it carries real impact.

It helps future buyers and sellers feel confident in who they are working with. It builds trust before a conversation even begins.

Real experiences from real clients speak louder than any marketing ever could.

If you have had a great experience working with a real estate professional, sharing it helps more people than you realize.

It takes a minute but lasts for years.

Real Estate Market Trends

Smaller homes are having a moment.

That’s because affordability is tight and, for many buyers, smaller is what fits the budget. And builders are listening.

Newly built homes have been trending smaller since 2014 – and that’s on purpose.

They're more affordable than larger homes. And many come with built-in community amenities like walking trails, fitness centers, and even co-working spaces, so less space still delivers.

If you've been feeling priced out of bigger homes, a smaller one could fit your budget and your lifestyle. And with brand-new everything, it may not feel like as much of a compromise as you think.

DM me to walk through what's available in our area.

If you want more info, please call or text me at: 920-585-5400.

First impressions are everything in real estate.

From the curb to the front door, buyers are forming opinions immediately. Landscaping, cleanliness, lighting, and even scent all play a role.

Inside, clutter free spaces and neutral tones allow buyers to picture themselves living there.

You do not get a second chance at that first feeling.

The goal is to make them want to stay the moment they walk in.

Real Estate Market Trends

One of the biggest questions I’m getting right now is: “What’s going to happen with the housing market in the second half of the year?”

And it makes sense why everyone is asking.

Affordability is tight. Rates feel high. Prices do too.

And people want to know if the second half of the year is going to be better.

Here's the honest answer. A lot of it depends on what happens with inflation – and the lingering uncertainty overseas. But even in today’s market, there’s opportunity, if you know where to look.

Want a breakdown of what’s impacting the market, where experts think things could go from here, and what you can actually do about it?

Send a DM or drop a comment below and I can send you over an article that breaks it all down.

If you want more info, please call or text me at: 920-585-5400.

Before scrolling listings or booking showings, the most important move is getting pre approved.

This is what tells you your real buying power, not just a guess. It also puts you in a stronger position when you find the right home.

In competitive situations, sellers take buyers more seriously when financing is already lined up.

Confidence in your numbers leads to better decisions.

The search becomes clearer, faster, and far less stressful.