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

Shiplap Alt #3 - Nickel Gap Boards

 

3. Nickel Gap Boards

A modern, fresh look...

Modernize your space with nickel gap boards. Nickel gap boards are slightly different than shiplap. Their clean lines and hidden nails offer a sleek appearance that seamlessly integrates into any interior design scheme.

Shiplap Alt #2 - Reclaimed Wood Planking

 

2. Reclaimed Wood Planking 

Sustainability and re-purposing...

Looking for sustainability and character? Reclaimed wood planking tells a story with its natural variations in color and grain. Perfect for creating a rustic yet chic atmosphere, each piece adds warmth and authenticity to your walls, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious projects.

Shiplap Alt #1 - Reeded or Fluted Wood Panels

1. Reeded or Fluted Wood Panels

Timeless look for added textures...

Reeded or fluted panels add a timeless and understated texture to your walls. The vertical grooves not only provide an elegant look bu also create a play of light and shadow, giving the space a dynamic and visually appealing dimension. These panels are an ideal choice for creating an atmosphere of subtle sophistication in both residential and commercial settings.

6 Shiplap Alternatives To Elevate Your Walls

 

If you''re familiar with home renovation shows or interior design trends, you've likely heard of the term "shiplap" tossed around. Shiplap is a type of wooden board which features overlapping boards to give a "farmhouse" feel.

However, if you've ever wondered what other wood paneling you can use to stand out, there are plenty of equally appealing alternatives to consider. From reeded panels to applied molding, these wood panel options offer versatility, aesthetics, and endless design possibilities that make your living space unique and stylish like shiplap. Stop back as we share with your 6 new alternative...

2026 Resolutions for Home Sellers

 

The Home Sellers Prep List

1.  Plan Ahead to Sell your Home

Get ahead of staging and repairs, so you are ready to list when the market is strong

2. Declutter Ruthlessly 

Remove personal items, extra furniture, and clutter for broader appeal.

3. Make Updates and Finish Projects

Boost Home Health: Improve air quality (HVAC filters, plants) and tackle deep cleaning.

Stage for "Zen": Create calming spaces with earthy tones, plants, and sound-dampening decor.

Smart Tech Integration: Consider smart home features for better showings and buyer appeal.

4. Partner with a REALTOR

We have the market knowledge and connections to attract serious buyers.

Give Team Hoffmann a call 414 - 897 - 0098.

No matter where your real estate journey takes you in 2026, preparation is key. With these tips and the right support, you’ll be ready to make your next move with ease. Here’s to a successful new year!

2026 Resolutions for Home Buyers

 

The Home Buyers Checklist

1.  Get Financially Fit Early

Secure pre-approval (not just pre-qualification) and avoid new debt or large purchases.

2. Define Your "Why" & "Where" 

Get crystal clear on your needs, wants, and ideal locations by early January.

3. Work with a REALTOR 

Buying a home can feel overwhelming. Remember, we're here to guide you every step of the way...

Give Team Hoffmann a call 414 - 897 - 0098.

4. Budget Realistically

Factor in taxes, insurance, maintenance, and HOA fees, not just the mortgage.

5. Explore Subtly

Drive neighborhoods to check commutes and vibes before making any big moves.

2026 New Year’s Resolutions for Home Buyers and Sellers

 

For 2026, home buyers should focus on financial prep (pre-approval, budget), connecting with agents early, exploring locations, and avoiding big purchases; sellers should declutter, depersonalize, improve curb appeal/home health (air quality), and consider smart tech upgrades for showing, all while navigating potentially stabilizing (but still high) prices and improving mortgage rates

Looking Back at 2025

The 2025 real estate year ended with a market rebalancing: slowing price growth, increased inventory (though uneven), and normalizing conditions after past booms, favoring buyers with more time and negotiation power, while sellers learned pricing discipline. Buyers sought multi-use, adaptable homes, while seniors (Baby Boomers) dominated transactions, shifting focus to affordability and value. Key trends included rising agent churn, tech/MLS debates, and stabilization, looks to set a path for gradual "normalization" in the new year.

Did your 2025 property tax bill increase in Milwaukee, WI? Here's why.

 

Property tax bills have been mailed out to Wisconsin residents, and some are noticing sharp increases in what they owe for 2025.

Statewide data from a December Wisconsin Policy Forum report found that K-12 property tax levies increased by 7.8%, which is the highest in three decades. Meanwhile, county levies were up 3.1% in 2025 — consistent with previous years — and levies for all local governments saw their biggest jump since 2018. READ MORE

2025 New Year’s Resolutions for a Happier, Healthier and More Valuable Home REVIEW!

Congratulations to everyone that accomplished their home resolutions this past year.

January - Add/Design a Home Gym

February - Replace/Upgrade Windows

March - Spring Cleaning and Decluttering

April - Build a three-seasons room to increase your living space

May - Organize your home records to stay on top of maintenance

June - Boost curb appeal to make better first impressions

July - Schedule a plumbing check-up

August - Increase use of Smart Home Technology

September - Plan your home's future remodeling projects

October - Cut down your energy bills with LEO light bulbs

November - Get ready for the holidays with a fresh coat of paint

December - Celebrate and meditate on your home maintenance resolutions!

GMAR - December 2025

 

2025 Home Sales Up 1% and December Home Sales Up 2.1%

Highlights

Sales Basically Flat From 2024

Metro Prices Up 6.1%, Averaging $470,702

Additional Supply Desperately Needed

Happy New Year from Team Hoffmann - RE/MAX LAKESIDE

 

Happy New Year from Team Hoffmann