US Buyers Gain as Price Growth Cools

US home price growth is now forecast near 1% in 2026, below expected inflation, giving buyers improving affordability as housing costs shrink in real terms.
Existing-home sales outlook eased to 4.1M for 2026, yet still points to ~1% yearly growth as mortgage rates stay ~6% and activity builds later.
Rental prices are still expected to fall in 2026 as multifamily supply adds relief, though construction slowing before demand catches up could stall it.
Sellers adjusted earlier with more realistic asking prices, creating fewer later reductions, more buyer negotiating power, and projected monthly payments ~2% below yearly levels.
A second-half wildcard is the growth of private off-market listings, which could reduce visibility, buyer competition, and clarity around fair pricing for everyone.