What 2025 Taught Us About the Housing Market—and What to Expect in 2026

As we move into 2026, many homeowners are wondering what the housing market is really doing—and what that means for their home value, equity, and future plans. Looking back at 2025 gives us some helpful clarity.

After several years of rapid change, 2025 marked a return to a more balanced housing market in both Kent County and Ottawa County. While the pace shifted, the fundamentals remained strong—and that matters for homeowners.

What We Learned From 2025

More homes came on the market, giving buyers additional choices compared to the extreme shortage of recent years. Even with those added options, there still weren’t enough homes available to weaken values.

Home prices held steady and remained strong. Most homes sold very close to the seller’s asking price, showing that demand is still there when homes are priced and marketed correctly.

Homes took a little longer to sell—but not long. The market slowed just enough to feel healthier and less rushed, while still moving quickly by historical standards.

Ottawa County saw slightly more growth in available homes than Kent County. Instead of hurting values, this helped create a steadier pace for buyers and sellers. In both counties, prices remained resilient, supported by strong homeowner equity and people moving for real-life reasons like family, lifestyle changes, or downsizing.

What’s Expected in 2026

Looking ahead, most experts expect this balanced rhythm to continue.

Mortgage rates entered 2026 in the high-5% to low-6% range, with forecasts suggesting gradual easing over time. While some movement is always possible, the overall outlook points toward stability rather than sharp swings—a welcome shift after years of uncertainty.

Stable rates help support consistent buyer demand, which in turn helps protect home values in our local communities.

What This Means for Homeowners

The biggest takeaway is reassuring:
This is a market that rewards planning over pressure.

Whether you’re thinking about moving soon, planning for a future transition, or simply keeping an eye on your home’s value and equity, understanding what’s happening puts you in control. Real estate decisions are still being driven by life—not headlines—and good information makes all the difference.

If you have questions about your home, your neighborhood, or what these trends mean for you personally, I’m always happy to help.