For 2026, Richmonders should expect real estate to bring lower mortgage rates but a still-tough housing market.
Why it matters: RVA was once again named one of the hottest housing markets of the year by Realtor.com.
- And that’s once again because prices here are expected to increase and competition to remain fierce.
State of play: Here’s what industry economists predict is in store for rates, sales and more this year.
Rates will stay above 6%: U.S. mortgage rates are expected to hover near 6.3% in 2026, according to Realtor.com chief economist Danielle Hale.
- Redfin also projects 30-year fixed rates will average 6.3%, dipping from 6.6% in 2025 while staying well above pandemic-era levels.
On sales: Realtor.com predicts sales of existing homes in Richmond will climb by 3.6% this year, way more than its national prediction of 1.7%…