The 2026 Market Shift: Strategy Wins in a Balanced Market 👑
In real estate, confidence isn’t about guesswork, it’s about data. That’s why I make it a priority to learn from industry leaders like David Childers, President of The Edge.
His latest 2026 housing market forecast confirmed something I’ve been telling my clients: this isn’t a crashing market, it’s a correcting and stabilizing one. And strategy matters more than ever.
Here’s what stood out and why it directly impacts how I serve my sellers.
1. Mortgage Rates Are Down From Last Year
In early 2025, rates were hovering above 7%. Today, they’re closer to the low 6% range, with some projections dipping near 5.99%.
On a $400,000 loan, that shift can mean nearly $300 per month in savings for buyers.
What does that mean for sellers?
More affordability = more qualified buyers re-entering the market.
2. Inventory Has Returned to Pre-2020 Levels in Tampa
Tampa inventory has climbed back to where it was before the pandemic frenzy. Buyers now have:
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More options
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More time to decide
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More leverage in negotiations
According to Redfin, over 62% of buyers recently paid below list price, the highest share since 2019.
Translation? Overpricing is no longer an option.
As the Home Selling Queen, this is where my pricing and positioning strategy becomes critical.
3. Price Growth Is Moderating, Not Collapsing
Forecasts from Realtor.com show moderate home price growth expected in 2026.
We are not in a market crash.
We are in a normalization phase.
Homes that are:
✔ Properly priced
✔ Professionally marketed
✔ Move-in ready
Are still selling.
4. Contract Cancellations Are Rising
Roughly 16% of contracts nationwide were canceled in recent months. In Tampa, cancellations have been tied to:
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Higher insurance premiums
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Increased HOA fees
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Property tax adjustments
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Inspection renegotiations
This tells me one thing: buyers are cautious and selective.
And that means I prepare my sellers upfront, reviewing insurance estimates, HOA details, and property condition before we ever hit the market.
Preparation prevents surprises.
5. Tampa Is Considered Buyer-Friendly in 2026
According to Zillow, Tampa ranks among the top buyer-friendly markets this year.
That doesn’t scare me.
It sharpens me.
In a balanced market, the advantage goes to the agent who:
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Knows the data
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Understands negotiation psychology
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Markets aggressively
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Advises honestly
That’s exactly how I operate.
Why This Makes Me Different
Being the Home Selling Queen isn’t about ego, it’s about execution.
I stay educated so my clients:
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Don’t overprice and sit
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Don’t underprice and lose equity
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Don’t fall apart during inspections
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Don’t leave money on the table
The 2026 market rewards preparation and strategy, not luck.
And I am fully prepared.
If you’re thinking about selling in Tampa this year, let’s talk about what these numbers mean specifically for your home.
Because in a steady market, the crown goes to the most strategic. 👑
