If buying a home is one of your goals for 2026, the current market is giving buyers something we haven’t seen in a while: more opportunity.
Over the past year, interest rates have come down significantly. We’ve seen rates drop from the mid-7% range to around 5.75%. That shift alone can make a real difference in what homeownership looks like month to month.
To put it into real numbers, we recently spoke with a lender about what this means for buyers. On a $300,000 home with 5% down, today’s lower rates can save you roughly $230 per month compared to where rates were previously. That’s not just a small change — that’s real money that can go toward savings, home improvements, or simply breathing room in your budget.
But interest rates aren’t the only factor working in buyers’ favor right now.
We’re also seeing more months of inventory in the market. In simple terms, that means there are more homes available and fewer buyers competing for the same property. When inventory is low, buyers often feel rushed, face bidding wars, and have fewer options. With more inventory, buyers gain flexibility — more choices, more time to think, and more room to negotiate.
When you combine lower interest rates with increased inventory, the result is better affordability and less pressure. Buyers aren’t just saving on their monthly payment; they’re also gaining leverage in the process.
This is especially important if your goal is to buy your first home in 2026. Starting the conversation now allows you to understand what you can afford, prepare financially, and build a plan so you’re ready when the right home hits the market. Waiting until the last minute can mean missed opportunities, while early planning puts you in control.
At the Lucas Howard Group, we help buyers look beyond headlines and focus on strategy. Whether you’re just starting to think about homeownership or actively planning for the year ahead, having a clear game plan can make all the difference.
If purchasing a home in 2026 is on your vision board, now is the time to start the conversation. Give us a call and let’s talk about how today’s market can work for you.