A Quick Word of Encouragement for Real Estate Agents Navigating This Spring 2026 Housing Market

Hey friends,

I've been in the mortgage business for over 40 years, and I've seen every kind of market - booming, slowing, crashing, and the transitional seasons just like the one we're experiencing right now.

Mortgage rates have settled in the mid-6% range, close to the long-term historical average over the past 30 years. Inventory is finally growing in many areas, buyers are being more thoughtful and cautious, and deals are taking a little longer to close. After the intensity of recent years, I know many of you are feeling that quiet fatigue.

I just want to say - I see you, and I'm genuinely impressed by how you keep showing up for your clients.

This more balanced, buyer-friendly spring market is exactly where consistent agents stand out. Those who nurture their database, stay resilient, and partner with a reliable lender are the ones who will finish stronger.

Here's the encouraging part: real opportunities are available right now.

• Many sellers are more willing to negotiate and show flexibility with offers.
• This opens the door for creatively structured purchases and financing solutions that can help move hesitant buyers forward.
• Strong first-time homebuyer programs remain active across key states - including California's CalHFA Dream For All and MyHome assistance options, Nevada's Home Is Possible program with down payment help, and similar programs in Tennessee and elsewhere. These can make a meaningful difference for qualified buyers in 2026.

When you have a highly-qualified and experienced lender who knows how to structure these scenarios creatively - whether in high-cost California markets, growing Nevada areas, or elsewhere - you can convert more leads and keep your pipeline moving even when the market feels stuck.

At First Capital Mortgage Inc., that's my focus: being the steady, relationship-first partner for agents who send me their buyers. You lift me up - and I want to lift you up right back by helping you win more transactions this spring.

You've got this. And I've got your back.

If you have a scenario you'd like reviewed, need ideas for creatively financing a first-time buyer (in CA, NV, or anywhere), or just want to talk through the current market - I'm only a quick call or text away.

Predicted Summer 2026 Housing Market

As we head into Summer 2026, top economists from the National Association of Realtors (Lawrence Yun), Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, Fannie Mae, and J.P. Morgan - along with leading voices featured across popular YouTube channels and housing podcasts - are largely aligned on a more balanced and encouraging outlook for the real estate market.

Mortgage rates are expected to hold in the low-to-mid 6% range with gradual easing possible by mid-year, while growing inventory and more flexible sellers create better negotiating power for buyers. Home prices are forecasted to rise only modestly (roughly 1 - 2% nationally), as wage growth finally begins to outpace appreciation, slowly improving affordability.

This sets the stage for a noticeable pickup in home sales during the traditionally busy summer months - what many are calling the early phase of a long-awaited "housing reset" - rewarding agents who stay consistent, master creative financing, and partner with experienced lenders to help buyers move forward in a healthier, more normalized market.

Talk soon,

Steve McNeal
First Capital Mortgage Inc.
Call or text: 844-522-7100