2025 Housing Market Review & 2026 Outlook
What It Means for Harris County and Lake Harding Homeowners
As we close the book on 2025, one thing is clear: our local housing market is moving toward balance. After years of rapid shifts, rising rates, and limited inventory, both Harris County and Lake Harding showed steady performance — protecting homeowner equity while setting the stage for opportunity in 2026.
Below is a look back at 2025, followed by what national and local economists are watching as we head into the new year.
2025 Market Review: By the Numbers
Harris County Real Estate – 2025 Snapshot
Harris County remained a strong, stable market driven by buyers seeking space, quality schools, and a more relaxed pace of life.
- Homes Sold: 342
- Median Sales Price: $394,000
- Average Price Per Square Foot: $164.00
- Average Days on Market: 41
What this tells us:
Homes sold at a healthy pace, with pricing that reflects solid demand but fewer bidding wars than in peak pandemic years. Sellers who priced correctly and prepared well saw consistent results, while buyers benefited from more time and choice.
Lake Harding Real Estate – 2025 Snapshot
Lake Harding continues to be a lifestyle-driven market where location, frontage, and condition matter greatly.
- Homes Sold: 13
- Median Sales Price: $725,000
- Average Price Per Square Foot: $276.00
- Average Days on Market: 61
What this tells us:
Lake Harding remains highly desirable, but buyers are more selective. Well-positioned waterfront homes sold strongly, while over-priced or under-prepared listings took longer to move. This is a thoughtful, equity-driven market — not a rushed one.
What Changed in 2025?
Across both markets, we saw several important shifts:
- Buyers became more price-sensitive
- Inventory slowly improved
- Multiple offers became less common
- Sellers needed stronger presentation and strategy
- Equity remained intact for long-term homeowners
These trends laid the groundwork for what many economists expect in 2026: a healthier, more sustainable housing market.
2026 Housing Market Outlook: What Experts Are Predicting
According to forecasts from national economists, including the National Association of REALTORS® and Redfin, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of gradual improvement — not a boom or a bust.
Mortgage Rates: Slow, Meaningful Relief
Mortgage rates are expected to settle in the low-6% range, which should bring more qualified buyers back into the market without driving prices sharply higher.
Home Prices: Modest Growth
Nationally, home prices are projected to rise 1–3%, roughly in line with inflation. That’s good news for homeowners looking to protect equity while restoring affordability.
Inventory: Still Tight, But Improving
More homeowners are listing due to life changes — not distress. While we’re not back to pre-2020 inventory levels, buyers will continue to see more options and less urgency.
Demand for Lifestyle Properties Remains Strong
Waterfront homes, land, and rural living — like what we see around Lake Harding and throughout Harris County — are expected to remain attractive, especially for retirees, cash buyers, and move-up homeowners.
Equity Fuels Smart Decisions
Many homeowners are choosing to renovate, refinance, or strategically relocate using built-up equity rather than waiting on “perfect” conditions.
What This Means for Local Homeowners
- Thinking of selling in 2026? Pricing, preparation, and timing matter more than ever.
- Not ready to move? Your equity is still working for you.
- Just curious? Understanding your local market helps you plan confidently — even years ahead.
Looking Ahead
The takeaway from both 2025 and the 2026 outlook is simple:
This is a market that rewards thoughtful decisions, not rushed ones.
Every neighborhood — and every property — behaves differently. If you’d like a closer look at how these trends apply specifically to your home, waterfront property, or land, we’re always happy to share local insight.
Market data sourced from the Columbus Board of REALTORS® and local MLS. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.