MikeOConline

In 2026, the U.S. housing market is expected to be steadier, with slightly more home sales and modest price growth. Lower mortgage rates and slower price increases should make buying a bit easier than in 2025.

But some markets will heat up more than others. After reviewing the 100 largest metros, the top performers for 2026 all share one thing: they offer better value than nearby expensive cities. That value keeps drawing buyers, even as low inventory pushes prices up.

For buyers, that can mean more competition. For sellers, it points to strong demand and potential upside next year.

Here are the top 10 metro areas for 2026 ⬇️

Boomerang Legislation Introduced in New York
In New York, a similar effort is underway. A bill introduced for the 2025–2026 legislative session would “prohibit both the sellers and the buyers of residential real properties from agreeing to sell or offering to purchase properties contingent upon the waiver, limitation, or restriction of a buyer's right to choose to obtain a home inspection.”

In May, the New York State Association of REALTORS® issued a statement in opposition to the bill, stating that the “bill has the potential to harm middle-class homebuyers with less capital and liquidity by limiting a potential competitive advantage in a tight housing market.”

NYSAR’s letter of opposition goes on to point out that the bill does not take into account the inspection process for cooperative apartments, which, by some estimates, make up as much as 75% of the apartment stock in New York City.

The New York legislation is currently held in committee. NYSAR Vice President and Chief Lobbyist Mike Kelly says that, while the association’s members recognize and consult with their buyer clients about the importance of home inspections, the decision about whether to have a home inspection remains with the buyer—and the terms of the purchase agreement are between the buyer and seller.