The 2026 Real Estate Reset: Is It Finally Time to Buy? đźŹ
By: Valerie Davenport
[TRANSCRIPT]
Hey future homeowners, welcome back to my channel, Reality of Realty; I’m Valerie Davenport, your trusted real estate guide, and Now that the confetti has settled, it’s the perfect time to look back at the wild ride that was 2025 and, more importantly, talk about what it means for your move this year. Last year was really the ‘Year of the Lifestyle Reset,’ so let’s break down how the game has changed.
So If you like videos like this and other behind the scenes peeks into what it’s like to be a realtor, don’t forget to like, share and subscribe so you’ll be notified when new videos are published.
And,whether you’re moving across the nation or across the street, tap into my resources by emailing me today using the email in the description box below. Now let’s get into the video.
Hey everyone, welcome back to my channel!
Part 1: The Financial Foundation
Remember at the start of last year when everyone was asking, ‘Is now a good time to buy?’ Well, 2025 finally gave us some breathing room. We saw financing become much more approachable, but the real stars were the buyers who went back to basics.
I worked with so many people who mastered how to improve their credit scores and tapped into down payment assistance programs that they didn't even know existed. We also stopped treating closing costs like a mystery—buyers got savvy, planned ahead, and walked into their closings with zero stress. It was all about building a solid foundation.
Part 2: Location & The New Floor Plan
Lifestyle became the ultimate North Star. We saw a massive move toward walkable neighborhoods—people wanted that local coffee shop vibe just a stroll away. Of course, homes in top-rated school districts remained the gold standard for families looking for a smart investment.
But inside the house? The floor plan got a serious makeover. Homes with home offices shifted from a ‘bonus’ to a requirement, and backyards turned into private resorts, with properties with pools leading the charge. We also saw some incredible regional style—the rustic charm of barndominiums and the earthy, cool aesthetic of adobe homes really proved that we want our houses to feel connected to the land.
Part 3: The High-Tech Glow Up
Now, let’s talk tech. In 2025, we moved past flashy gadgets and into true integration. Smart home technology and modern security systems became the new baseline. But the biggest shift? Sustainability. Energy-efficient homes, solar power, and low-impact living became top-tier priorities.
And for my design lovers—how about those kitchens? We fell in love with hidden appliance garages to keep the clutter away, and spa-inspired bathrooms that turned the daily shower into a total sanctuary. It’s all about that ‘quiet luxury’ feel.
Part 4: What’s Next for 2026?
So, what is carrying over into 2026? We are seeing those 2025 favorites evolve. Efficiency is still huge, but now we’re seeing a shift toward ‘wellness-first’ living. Think dedicated ‘quiet zones’ and acoustic-dampening materials—because let’s face it, our homes are doing a lot of heavy lifting these days.
We are also in the middle of the ‘Great Housing Reset.’ Home prices reached their all-time high last year but it’s slowed some giving Income growth a chance to catch up, making 2026 look like a year of steady, balanced growth. If 2025 was about the dream, 2026 is about making that dream sustainable for the long haul.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a first-time buyer finding your footing or you’re ready to trade your current spot for a fresh start, the road ahead is looking bright. We’re moving into a market that is more human-centric and balanced than we’ve seen in years. This is your window to turn those aspirations into a reality. It’s a season of growth, and it’s a wonderful time to find a place where you can truly thrive.
So that’s it for today’s video. I’ll wrap it up here by saying thanks for tuning in to the very end! If you found this info helpful, don't forget to like, share and subscribe, and hit that notification bell for more real estate insights. And, if you have any real-estate related inquiries, visit my website at valeriedavenport@unitedrealestatechicago.com or use my email in the description box below. Until next time, happy house hunting!
