Introduction: Why This New Year is the Perfect Time for a Real Estate Reset

As we stand at the threshold of 2026, it's natural to reflect and recalibrate. If your real estate career feels stagnant, overwhelming, or limited by the solo-agent grind, let this be your year of transformation. The new year symbolizes fresh starts and bold moves. For licensed agents in Oregon, aligning with a high-performance team could be the most impactful resolution you make.

The market is shifting, and success increasingly favors those with leverage: leverage through systems, support, and shared resources. Discover why moving into the new year with the Rockwell Real Estate Group could be the key to unlocking your highest-earning potential.

New Year, New Model: Leave the Old "Do-It-All" Struggle Behind

Make 2026 the year you stop trying to be a one-person agency. The outdated model of juggling lead generation, marketing, admin, and client service alone is a recipe for burnout. This new year, resolve to specialize in what you do best.

Embrace the Modern Team Platform in 2026:

• Resolution: Focus on Clients, Not Tasks. Let a dedicated inside sales team handle lead qualification and appointment setting for you.

• Resolution: Eliminate Admin Overhead. Start the year with full transaction, marketing, and operational support.

• Resolution: Adopt Proven Systems. Gain immediate access to the processes that scaled one team from $38M to over $120M in sales.

This new approach allows you to build a scalable business centered on relationships and expertise, not paperwork and cold calls.

Five New Year's Resolutions for Your Real Estate Career. Achieved in One Move.

Joining a growth-oriented team like Rockwell allows you to fulfill multiple career resolutions simultaneously.

1. Resolution: Gain Consistent, Qualified Leads

Stop resolving to "spend more on ads" or "cold call more." Instead, let a system deliver. With 20+ buyer leads filtered daily and listing appointments set for you, you can start 2026 with a pipeline already in motion.

2. Resolution: Reduce Stress and Overhead

Vow to work smarter, not harder. From transaction management (via SkySlope) to professional photography, the team handles the backend. This frees up your time, finances, and mental energy, the ultimate gift for the new year.

3. Resolution: Accelerate Your Growth

Commit to continuous learning within a mentorship-rich environment. Learn the same systems that fueled rapid growth, turning the new year into a period of accelerated skill and income development.

4. Resolution: Build Equity and Wealth

Move beyond just commission splits. With eXp Realty's stock awards and revenue share programs, you can start building ownership and long-term wealth as part of your 2026 financial plan.

5. Resolution: Find Better Work-Life Balance

Promise yourself more time for life outside of work. By focusing only on high-value client activities, you regain hours for family, hobbies, and rest, making 2026 a more sustainable and enjoyable year.

Is 2026 Your Year? Who Thrives on a Team Like This?

This model is a powerful launchpad for the new year, especially for:

The Agent Ready for a "New Year, New Me" Shift: You have a license and drive but are tired of the slow, costly solo start. You want to begin 2026 with instant business and momentum. (Imagine starting the year like one Rockwell agent who had 10 properties in escrow within their first 60 days.)

The Experienced Agent Seeking a "Career Refresh": You're successful but plateaued. You're spending the new year doing the same exhausting grind. You desire a refresh: better systems, support, and a clear path to the next level without working 80-hour weeks.

Your First Steps for a New Year Career Change

Considering a move? Start the new year with smart due diligence. Ask any team:

• "What does the onboarding process look like to get me started quickly in the new year?"

• "How are leads distributed to ensure I can build momentum in Q1?"

• "What is the full financial structure, including splits, caps, and fees?"

• "What training and mentorship are in place to support my 2026 goals?"

Conclusion: Ring in 2026 with a Career Designed for Growth

The new year is synonymous with opportunity and forward motion. For Oregon real estate professionals, partnering with a top-tier team represents a decisive step toward a more prosperous, balanced, and successful future.

Don't let another year pass doing the same thing and expecting different results. Make 2026 the year you trade isolation for collaboration, effort for leverage, and limits for scale.

As the new year settles in, Scottsdale is buzzing with a dynamic mix of culture, sound, and flavor. Whether you’re seeking a soulful escape, a night of iconic rock, or a culinary adventure, our city delivers. Here’s Rockwell’s curated guide to the best events happening this week.

A Week of World-Class Performance

Live on Stage & In Concert

• THE BOOK OF MORMON (Jan 6-11 @ ASU Gammage): The nine-time Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon brings its "genius" and "phenomenal" comedy to Tempe. A must-see for theatre lovers.

• DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: The Twenty-Sided Tavern (Jan 8-11 @ Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts): Experience a blend of live theatre, gaming, and interactive storytelling. No two adventures are the same in this critically acclaimed production.

• My Generation Tour (Jan 9 @ Talking Stick Resort): Take a hip trip back in time with The Lovin’ Spoonful, The Hollies Greatest Hits starring Terry Sylvester, and Gary Lewis & The Playboys. Thirty hits from 1965-1975 promise a night of nostalgia.

• Yale Whiffenpoofs (Jan 9 @ ASU Kerr): The world’s oldest collegiate a cappella group brings their legendary harmonies and charm to Scottsdale, kicking off their tour right here.

Musical Journeys

• Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience (Jan 8 @ Arizona Musicfest): An unforgettable night where the Mississippi Delta Blues meets a symphony orchestra, guided by the iconic voice and vision of Morgan Freeman himself.

• Neil Berg: The 70's (Jan 10 @ Arizona Musicfest): Relive the golden age of rock with epic songs and stories from Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Queen, The Eagles, and more in two powerhouse performances.

• Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Chopin—The Romantic (Jan 13 @ Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts): A brilliantly polished concert with commentary, offering an engaging and accessible deep dive into Chopin’s romantic masterpieces.

Moments of Resonance & Relaxation

Healing and Harmonic Experiences

• Glow Up @SMoCA: Sound Bath (Jan 8 @ Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art): Refresh your aura. Bathe in the serene light of Squidsoup’s Infinite installation as a guided sound bath eases you into deep relaxation. Tickets are limited for this intimate experience.

• Frequency Healing: Light Language & Sound Healing with Bailey Olivas (Jan 10 @ Shanti Sound): Step into a sacred evening of channeled sound and light codes for multidimensional healing and soul remembrance in a heart-centered community space.

• Flute Fridays: Flute Duets Through the Ages (Jan 9 @ Musical Instrument Museum): Enjoy a pop-up performance by talented Arizona flutists, a perfect complement to MIM’s stunning special exhibition, The Magical Flute.

Culinary & Can't-Miss Happenings

For the Food Connoisseur

• WINTER 2026 Menu at Course Restaurant (Jan 2 - Mar 25): Chef Cory Oppold presents cuisine as an art form. Experience a thoughtfully designed, seasonally-driven prix fixe menu—an immersive exploration of flavor and technique to be savored slowly.

The Major Spectacle

• Vrbo Fiesta Bowl (Jan 8 @ State Farm Stadium): Experience elite college football as the College Football Playoff comes to Arizona. This destination event is the perfect anchor for a Scottsdale getaway, pairing top-tier sports with world-class resort amenities.

Local Vibe & Free Fun

• Banda La Excepcional (Jan 8 @ Casino Arizona): Feel the vibrant energy of a 15-piece banda. This FREE show in the CAZ Showroom is a fantastic way to experience local, high-energy music and celebration.

Plan your perfect Scottsdale week. For more insights on luxury living and local culture, stay connected with Rockwell Group.

The turning of the calendar is a powerful moment to reset and prioritize your well-being. In Southern Oregon, the pursuit of health isn't confined to a gym; it's woven into the very fabric of our landscape and community. Here, your wellness goals are supported by pristine air, abundant trails, local nourishing food, and a culture that values balance. Whether you aim to move more, eat mindfully, or find mental clarity, this region provides the perfect environment to thrive.

Nourishment from the Ground Up

Wellness begins with what fuels your body, and Southern Oregon's local bounty makes healthy eating a pleasure, not a chore.

• Farm-Fresh Vitality: Start at your local Grants Pass or Medford Growers Market. Fill your basket with organic, seasonal produce directly from the farmer, ensuring maximum flavor and nutrition.

• Mindful Eating Out: Enjoy meals that are as good for you as they are delicious. Seek out cafes and restaurants that highlight locally sourced ingredients, from hearty farm-to-table salads to innovative plant-based dishes.

• Home Sanctuary: The foundation of a nourishing routine is a kitchen that inspires you. Whether it's a sunny nook for morning smoothies or space for fermenting vegetables, your home environment is key to sustaining healthy habits.

Movement in Nature's Gym

Forget sterile workout rooms. Southern Oregon offers an unparalleled natural playground that makes activity an adventure.

• Mountain Energy: Hike or bike the trails of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument or the new Dollar Mountain Trail System. The varied terrain offers challenges for all levels, with rewarding vistas that refresh the spirit.

• River Flow: The iconic Rogue River is the region's lifeblood. Kayak, raft, or simply walk its scenic banks. The sound and sight of moving water are inherently calming and restorative.

• Forest Therapy: Immerse yourself in the healing practice of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) among the ancient stands in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. Guided walks, like those from local wellness groups, can help you deepen your connection.

Cultivating Community & Mindfulness

True wellness encompasses connection and peace of mind. Southern Oregon's towns are hubs for holistic practices and supportive communities.

• Local Wellness Hubs: Explore studios like No Mud No Lotus Yoga in Grants Pass for movement and meditation, or visit an Herb Shop for natural remedies and knowledgeable guidance.

• Arts & Culture for the Soul: Engage with the vibrant local arts scene. Attending a play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland or browsing the Grants Pass Museum of Art feeds creativity and reduces stress.

• The Ultimate Wellness Foundation: Lasting well-being is deeply supported by your living environment. A home that serves as a peaceful sanctuary, with space for a morning practice, a garden for growing herbs, or proximity to nature trails is the cornerstone of a balanced life in Southern Oregon.

Your Wellness Journey and Your Home

As you envision your healthiest year, consider how your physical space supports your aspirations. Does your current home provide easy access to the trails you want to hike? Is there room for the home yoga practice you're starting? Do you feel a sense of peace when you pull into your driveway?

The journey to "New Year, New You" is about aligning your daily environment with your deepest goals. In Southern Oregon, that often means finding a home that isn't just a place to live, but a foundation for living well.

Find Your Foundation for Wellness with The Rockwell Group

At The Rockwell Group, we understand that a home is more than square footage. It's the launchpad for your lifestyle. As Southern Oregon's leading real estate team, with over $1 billion in property sold, we help individuals and families find properties that align with their vision for health, happiness, and connection.

If your wellness goals this year include finding a home that brings you closer to nature, community, and your best self, let our dedicated team guide you. We combine deep local knowledge with a client-first approach to make your real estate journey seamless.

Start your year with a step toward the home that supports your whole life.
Discover Your Home's Value | Contact The Rockwell Group

Jake Rockwell & The Rockwell Real Estate Group | eXp Realty

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Medford, Oregon: 6 Local Events to Ring in the New Year

Looking for New Year’s Eve events in Medford, Oregon? Whether you want a late-night party, live music, dancing, or a family-friendly countdown, all of the events below are happening in Medford, making it easy to plan your night without leaving town.

Here’s your Medford NYE 2026 guide, curated by Rockwell Group for locals and newcomers alike.

🎭 Masquerade Party @ H2O Bar & Bistro

An upscale New Year’s Eve celebration in Medford

Ring in 2026 with a full-on Masquerade Extravaganza. No long lines, no cold waits.

Event highlights:

• Dress up in party attire with a masquerade mask

• DJ Komma spinning all night

• Appetizers, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight

• Pre-sale tickets available (limited capacity)

📍 Medford, Oregon
Best for: Couples and groups looking for a polished NYE night out.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/events/820176854061251

🤠 New Year’s Eve Party @ Rocky Tonk Saloon

A high-energy country New Year’s Eve in Medford

This Medford favorite brings dancing front and center.

Schedule:

• 7:00 PM – Line dance lessons with Matthew

• 9:00 PM – DJ Poppa plays dance hits

• Midnight – New Year countdown

📍 Medford, Oregon
Best for: Country fans, social dancers, and lively crowds.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/events/1952422492003279/

🥂 New Year’s Eve Party @ The Trophy Club

Classic Medford NYE celebration with prizes

A traditional New Year’s Eve party with nonstop energy.

What’s included:

• Free champagne toast

• DJ dance party

• Swag giveaways every 15 minutes starting at 8 PM

• Best Dressed Couple prize

📍 Medford, Oregon
Best for: Groups who love giveaways and interactive fun.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/events/1415785213235377/

🎈 NOON Year’s Eve Celebration @ ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum

A family-friendly New Year’s Eve at noon in Medford

Perfect for families who want to celebrate without staying up late.

Details:

• 🕚 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Two balloon drops at 12 PM

  • Main Gallery: high-energy countdown

  • Da Vinci’s Garage: sensory-friendly celebration

• Hands-on science activities and updated Egg Drop Challenge

• Food donations welcomed for Ashland Food Bank

🎟️ Free with membership or admission (pre-sale tickets available)

📍 Medford, Oregon
Best for: Families, kids, and daytime celebrations.

Learn more: https://www.scienceworksmuseum.org/noon-years-eve

🎸 Smiley T & The Tall Trees @ The Copper Plank

Live music New Year’s Eve in Medford

Celebrate with a full-band performance and late-night vibes.

Event info:

• Doors open at 8 PM

• Music into 2026

• $15 cover

📍 Medford, Oregon
Best for: Live music lovers and concert-style NYE fans.

Learn more: https://www.thecopperplank.com/

🍷 The Pozitronics NYE Party @ Naumes Suncrest Winery

An early New Year’s Eve party in Medford

Celebrate early and keep your night flexible.

Details:

• 🕒 3:00–6:00 PM

• Afternoon dance party

• Wine, music, and a relaxed crowd

📍 Medford, Oregon
Best for: Wine lovers, early celebrations, and low-key NYE plans.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/events/1354924196134490

🎆 Why Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Medford?

From nightlife and live music to family-friendly events, Medford offers a surprisingly wide range of New Year’s Eve experiences all close to home. It’s one of the reasons locals love living here: convenience, community, and something to do for every age and style.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Medford or Southern Oregon in 2026, getting to know the local scene is the best place to start.

Rockwell Group proudly serves Medford and the surrounding Southern Oregon communities.
Have questions about neighborhoods, schools, or what it’s really like to live here?

 Reach out anytime. We’re happy to help you start the new year in the right place.

Whether it’s at a family gathering, your company party, or catching up with friends over the holidays, the housing market always finds its way into the conversation.

Here are the top three questions on a lot of people’s minds this season, and straightforward answers to help you feel more confident about the market.

1. “Will I even be able to find a home if I want to move?”

Yes, more than you could a year or two ago.

The number of homes for sale has been rising over the past few years. According to data from Realtor.com, there have been more than one million homes on the market for six straight months, something that hasn’t happened since 2019 (see graph below):

That means two things:

• Buyers have more options.
• Sellers have more places they can move to next.

Many homeowners who held off are realizing the shelves aren’t bare anymore. So, if you hit pause on your home search last year because nothing fit your needs, it may be worth another look. With more homes on the market now, you’re not competing for the same handful of listings like you were a couple of years ago.

And because there’s a bit more to choose from, homes aren’t disappearing the minute they hit the market. That gives buyers more space to breathe, more options to compare, and a little more time to make a confident decision.

2. “Will I ever be able to afford a house?”

Affordability is starting to improve. Finally.

It’s been a tough few years for buyers. But this year brought some much-needed good news:

• Mortgage rates have been easing.
• Home price growth has been moderating.

That adds up to a monthly mortgage payment that’s hundreds of dollars lower than it would have been just a few months ago (see graph below):

Buying still isn’t easy, but the numbers are starting to improve. For a lot of people, that means buying a home is becoming a more realistic goal again.

3. “Should I wait for prices to come down?”

A lot of people worry that the housing market is about to crash, but the data doesn’t point in that direction. Yes, the number of homes for sale has been rising, but it’s still nowhere near the level needed for prices to fall significantly on a national scale. On top of that, homeowners today have a lot of equity and are in a much stronger financial position than they were back in 2008.

Of course, every local market is a little different. Some areas are still seeing prices climb, while others that saw huge spikes a few years ago are leveling off or seeing small corrections. But overall, the national picture is clear: experts surveyed by Fannie Mae project home prices will keep rising, just at a slower, more normal pace (see graph below):

That’s why waiting for a major price drop to get a deal isn’t a very strategic plan. History shows the same thing over and over: people who spend time in the market tend to build the most long-term wealth, not the people who try to time the market perfectly.

Bottom Line

Talk about the housing market can feel loud and confusing, especially when you’re hearing so many different takes. A trusted local agent can help you make sense of the data and understand your options. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, reach out to a local professional.

Courtesy of Keeping Current Matters

Mortgage rates have been the monster under the bed for a while. Every time they tick up, people flinch and say, “Maybe I’ll wait.” But here’s the twist. Waiting for that perfect 5-point-something rate could end up haunting your wallet later.

The Magic Number

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“. . . a 30-year fixed rate mortgage of 6% would make the median-priced home affordable for about 5.5 million more households—including 1.6 million renters. If rates were to hit that magic number, it’s likely that about 10%—or 550,000—of those additional households would buy a home over the next 12 or 18 months.”

When the market hits that mortgage rate sweet spot, as expert forecasters are starting to say is more likely in 2026, the psychological shift to lower rates will kick in for more of today’s hopeful buyers. That will unleash some pent-up demand that’s been waiting on the sidelines, and the increase in activity will cause prices to rise.

And while a 5.99% rate might sound like a big win, if you’re waiting for that number to make your move, it might not actually save you as much as you think. Here’s how the math looks when you run the numbers (see chart below):

On a $400,000 mortgage, the difference between today’s rate (around 6.2%) and 5.99% is roughly $50 a month. That’s less than many people spend on weekly coffee runs or occasional DoorDash orders. And as prices tick up with more buyers in the market, that could quickly negate any of your potential savings.

So, if you’re waiting for 5.99%, that difference might not be worth missing out on today’s opportunities, like having more homes to choose from, better negotiation leverage with today’s sellers, and fewer buyers out there looking for the same houses.

Because the reality is, those benefits start to slip away when more buyers begin to make their moves – and a rate under 6% is exactly they’re waiting for.

Why Acting Now Makes Sense

Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at NAR, says:

“Over the last 5 weeks, mortgage rates have averaged 6.31%. This has provided savvy buyers a sweet spot to reexamine the home search process with more inventory, widening their choices.”

And like Matt Vernon, Head of Retail Lending at Bank of America, notes:

“Rather than waiting it out for a rate that they like better, hopeful homebuyers should assess their personal financial situation—if the house is right for them, and the upfront and monthly payments are affordable, it could be the right chance to make a move.”

Bottom Line

If moving at today’s rate scares you, remember, waiting doesn’t always pay off. Once rates dip below 6%, as some experts project they’ll do next year, more buyers (and higher prices) will be back.

So, don’t be afraid of today’s mortgage rates. Because if you’re ready, this might just be your chance to make a move before the market wakes up again.

Courtesy of Keeping Current Matters

Here’s something you should know before you sell your house. The homeowners who win in today’s market aren’t the ones waiting it out or stepping back. They’re the ones who adapt from the start.

A number of homeowners this year didn’t get the outcome they wanted. But it’s not because something’s wrong with the market. It’s because something wasn’t right with their expectations.

Realtor.com reports 57% more homes have been taken off the market compared to last year. That means they listed… but didn’t sell. But here’s the honest truth. It was mostly because of two things: price and timing.

And if the seller had come in with the right mindset on each, their sale would’ve gone differently. Here are the top 2 things you can learn from those other sellers.

1. Price It Right from Day 1

Let’s start with the most common sticking point: the asking price. Today, 8 in 10 sellers expect to get their asking price or more. But that confidence doesn’t always line up with reality.

According to Redfin, only 1 in 4 (25.3%) sellers are actually getting more than their list price.

And here’s where the mismatch is coming from.

A few years ago, you could set any price and buyers would come running, no matter what the price tag said. Odds are, you’d still sell for over asking. But things are different now.

Buyers have more options than they’ve had in years, so they can afford to be more selective. If your price feels even a little high to them, it’ll get overlooked in a heartbeat.

And for the homeowners who had that happen, some end up pulling their listings instead of making a simple adjustment that could have changed everything. Which is a shame, honestly. Because a small price tweak is usually all it takes to bring buyers in and get the deal done.

According to HousingWire, the average price cut right now is just 4%.

Think about that. Other sellers are listing too high and giving up rather than dropping their price 4%. If they’d just started 4% lower, they may have already sold. So, before you list, talk to your agent about what’s working nearby. They’ll help you find the sweet spot that’s competitive, realistic, and still protecting your bottom line.

And here’s the kicker. If you’ve been in your home for a while, your equity gives you room to set your list price more competitively and still come out way ahead. Unfortunately, those other sellers didn’t seem to realize that.

2. Don’t Rush the Process

Another common misstep: expecting your house to sell in a weekend.

Many sellers right now remember when homes sold in as little as hours – and they expect that to happen today. But in most markets, that’s not the reality anymore.

It takes closer to 60 days to go from listed to sold, which is actually normal (see the gray in the graph below):

It just feels slower because they’re comparing it to the lightning-fast pace of 2020 and 2021.

Think of it like driving 65 mph on the highway, then exiting and going 25. It feels like you’re crawling, but it’s actually the right speed for where you are. That’s what other sellers can’t seem to get over. But you can get ahead of that, by knowing what to expect.

Today’s buyers are more intentional. They’re taking their time, weighing their options, and making thoughtful decisions, which is creating a much healthier housing market.

So, if you’re planning to sell, don’t expect it to happen instantly. And don’t assume your house won’t sell if it doesn’t go under contract in the first weekend.

It’s normal for these things to take time.

If you want to make sure your house sells as quickly as possible, talk to your agent about ways to stand out, whether that’s through staging, photography, or strategic pricing. With the right advice, the right price, and the right prep work, it can still sell quickly.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about selling, don’t let the market discourage you, let it guide you. The listings that didn’t sell this year weren’t doomed. They just started with the wrong strategy.

You can still win if you price right, are patient, and work with a local agent who knows how to position your home from the start.

Because in today’s market, success isn’t about waiting for conditions to change. It’s about getting your expectations right from day one.

Courtesy of Keeping Current Matters

When the holidays roll around, travel plans, family gatherings, and all the chaos of the season may make you think it’s better to pull your listing off the market or to wait until 2026 to sell your house. But here’s the thing.

Waiting could mean missing out on a great window of opportunity. Because while other sellers are stepping away, you can lean in – and that might actually give you the edge. Here are 4 reasons selling now may be the better bet. 

1. Buyers This Time of Year Are Serious

Don’t let the season fool you. While casual browsers tend to step back around the holidays, serious buyers stay in the game. The people looking for homes right now usually aren’t just browsing. They’re ready to make a move and they usually want to close before the new year. As Zillow says:

“While more buyers have tended to shop in the spring and summer months, those shopping in the winter are likely to be motivated — often moving because of a job relocation, change in financial situation, or change in family needs.”

Their timelines are real and missing them would create a hassle for the buyer, so they’re eager to get the deal done. And that’s exactly the kind of buyer you want to work with.

2. You Have Control Over Your Schedule (and Showings)

Some homeowners decide not to sell this time of year because they don’t want to juggle showings during the holiday rush. They’re anticipating traveling to see family and thinking about buyers in their home only adds another layer of complexity. 

But here’s what no one’s reminded them. You can control your showings and can set times that work for your schedule. You don’t have to stop your plans to keep your sale on track. The right agent can help you manage your calendar, your showings, and your stress level.

3. Other Sellers May Step Back, Which Means Less Competition

Because fewer sellers tend to list this time of year, the number of homes for sale usually falls a bit. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“As we approach the end of the year, listing activity tends to slow and would-be sellers decide to wait until after the new year to list . . .”

And in a year when inventory has been steadily rising, that seasonal slowdown works in your favor. With the potential for fewer sellers on the market, your house will stand out. So, a seasonal dip in listings could help you get noticed, especially if your home is priced right and presented well.

4. Homes Decorated for the Holidays Can Feel More Inviting

You may not realize it, but seasonal decor can actually help you appeal to buyers. Maybe it’s that they have an easier time picturing themselves making memories in the home. Maybe it just feels cozier and more inviting. Whatever the reason, it works. Sometimes tasteful seasonal touches can make it easier to sell your house.

But don’t go overboard. Keep your choices simple to let your home’s charm shine through.

Bottom Line

There are plenty of good reasons to put (or keep) your house on the market during this time of year.

If you want to talk strategy for how to make the most of this season in your market, connect with a local agent.

Courtesy of Keeping Current Matters

After a couple of years where the housing market felt stuck in neutral, 2026 may be the year things shift back into gear. Expert forecasts show more people are expected to move – and that could open the door for you to do the same.

More Homes Will Sell

With all of the affordability challenges at play over the past few years, many would-be movers pressed pause. But that pause button isn’t going to last forever. There are always people who need to move. And experts think more of them will start to act in 2026 (see graph below):

What’s behind the change? Two key factors: mortgage rates and home prices. Let’s dive into the latest expert forecasts for both, so you can see why more people are expected to move next year.

Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Ease

The #1 thing just about every buyer has been looking for is lower mortgage rates. And after peaking near 7% earlier this year, rates have started to ease.

The latest forecasts show that could continue throughout 2026, but it won’t be a straight line down (see graph below):

There’s a saying: when rates go up, they take the escalator. But when they come down, they take the stairs. And that’s an important thing to remember. It’ll be a slow and bumpy process.

Expect modest improvement in mortgage rates over the next year but be ready for some volatility. There will be volatility along the way as new economic data comes out. Just don’t let it distract you from the bigger picture: the overall trend will be a slight decline. Forecasts say we could hit the low 6s, or maybe even the high 5s.

And remember, there doesn’t have to be a big drop for you to feel a change. Even a smaller dip helps your bottom line.

If you compare where rates are now to when they were at 7% earlier this year, you’re already saving hundreds on your future mortgage payment. And that’s a really good thing. It’s enough to make a real difference in affordability for some buyers.

Home Price Growth Will Be Moderate

What about prices? On a national scale, forecasts say they’re still going to rise, just not by a lot. With rates down from their peak earlier this year, more buyers will re-enter the market. And that increased demand will keep some upward pressure on prices nationally – and prevent prices from tumbling down.

So, even though some markets are already seeing slight price declines, you can rest easy that a big crash just isn’t in the cards. Thanks to how much prices rose over the last 5 years, even the markets seeing declines right now are still up compared to just a few years ago.

Of course, price trends will depend on where you are and what’s happening in your local market. Inventory is a big driver in why some places are going to see varying levels of appreciation going forward. But experts agree we’ll see prices grow at the national level (see graph below): 

This is yet another good sign for buyers and overall affordability. While prices will still go up nationally, it’ll be at a much more sustainable pace. And that predictability makes it easier to plan your budget. It also gives you peace of mind that prices won’t suddenly skyrocket overnight.

Bottom Line

After a quieter couple of years, 2026 is expected to bring more movement – and more opportunity. With sales projected to rise, mortgage rates trending lower, and price growth slowing down, the stage is set for a healthier, more active market.

So, the big question: will you be one of the movers making 2026 your year?

Connect with an agent if you want to get ready.

Courtesy of Keeping Current Matters