2026 Real Estate Outlook

 

• A Reawakening in Home Sales
• Supply-Side Signals
• Housing Affordability Improves
• Demographics Reshape Market
• All Eyes on Mortgage Rates

Housing economists weigh in on the forces most likely to shape housing business in 2026—from mortgage rates and inventory to demographic and regional shifts.

As the housing market enters 2026, leading economists point to a range of forces likely to shape the year ahead for buyers, sellers, investors and the real estate industry. While notable headwinds persist, they agree on one thing: The housing market is showing signs of a rebalance—and a rebound—in 2026. READ MORE

The 10 Real Estate Stories That Defined 2025

 

In 2025, the housing market was defined by contradiction: a recovery that didn’t feel like one, and fixes that raised new questions even as they answered old ones. Across the country, homeowners, renters, and builders all hit breaking points—just in different ways, for different reasons.

Homeownership has long been a cornerstone of the American dream, but what we often forget is that behind every white picket fence and promise of building generational wealth, are real people fighting for a better future, or simply trying to stay afloat.

This list spotlights their stories: from lawmakers pushing for reform to economists parsing the noise—and the retirees, buyers, sellers, renters, and builders caught in the middle. READ MORE

Happy Valentine's Day from Team Hoffmann - RE/MAX LAKESIDE

 

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM TEAM HOFFMANN

Where to Drink and Dine on Valentine's Day in the Milwaukee Area...

From romantic dinner dates to good times, these local Milwaukee restaurants invite you to celebrate love.

Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, so you know what that means: the pressure is on for a certified Date Night. Thankfully, these Milwaukee restaurants and bars are here to do the heavy lifting with signature menus designed to spark romance. Might as well pencil-in Feb. 13 through 15, because Milwaukee is serving up love all weekend on a silver platter.

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Shiplap Alt #6 - Applied Moulding

 

6. Applied Moulding

Endless design possibilities...

Take your wall paneling to the next level with applied wood moulding. These intricate designs allow for endless customization, turning your walls into works of art. Ideal for businesses aiming to create a luxurious ambiance, applied moulding adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space.

Shiplap alternatives offer a wide array of options for elevating your walls and infusing your space with personality and style.

Shiplap Alt #5 - Herringbone Patterned Wood

 

5. Herringbone Patterned Wood

Great for a statement wall...

Make a statement with herringbone pattered wood. The distinctive zigzag design adds movement and character to your walls, becoming an instant focal point in any room. Whether your style is traditional or contemporary, herringbone patterned wood offers versatility and visual appeal.

Shiplap Alt #4 - Board & Batten

 

4. Board & Batten

Timeless, yet bold...

Board and batten wall paneling offers a timeless, yet bold, approach to wall design. The combination of vertical boards and horizontal battens not only adds visual interest but also makes spaces appear taller and more open. This classic option can be tailored to suit a variety of aesthetics and is particularly popular in businesses aiming to achieve a cozy, rustic ambiance.

GMAR - January 2026

 

January Home Sales Down 9.9%

Highlights

Sales Were Down 9.9% in January

January Listings Were Up 2.4%

Metro Prices Up 9.5% With Averaging Sale Price of $407,818