Selling Your Home in 2026? Here’s Why You Should Talk to Your Agent Now

A successful sale takes proper planning. Talking to your agent now gives you time to prepare, price strategically, and move fast when market conditions shift in your favor.

If you’re thinking about selling your house in 2026, the biggest mistake I see people make is waiting too long to start the conversation. Every December and January, many homeowners tell me they plan to list after the first of the year or wait until spring. 

The intention makes sense, but the timing usually works against them. The most successful sellers begin planning well before they ever put a sign in the yard.

Why does planning early matter? This market is far more sensitive than it was a few years ago. Interest rates can move quickly, inventory levels change, and buyer behavior shifts along with them. When sellers wait until they feel ready to list before talking to an agent, they lose valuable time that could have been used to make smart decisions. 

I always recommend starting the conversation at least three months in advance, because that allows us to look at timing, pricing, and competition without pressure.

New construction plays a bigger role now. One of the biggest factors affecting sellers today is new construction. In many areas, new homes used to represent about 20 percent of the market. Now, that number can reach 40 to 50 percent. Builders are adjusting prices and offering incentives, including interest-rate buydowns and closing-cost assistance. In some cases, new homes are priced 15 to 20 percent lower than resales, which creates real competition.

When buyers compare a resale home to a new one at a similar price, many choose the new home, especially when incentives are included. That is why timing matters so much. Listing when there is less new construction available can help your home stand out and protect your value.

“If selling your home in 2026 is even on your radar, starting the conversation early can make the process far smoother and far more rewarding. ”

Preparation creates flexibility. Selling a home today requires preparation. I work with sellers to have photos, tours, listings, and marketing materials ready ahead of time. When the market shifts, we’re able to act quickly instead of scrambling. Pricing also plays a critical role. Homes that are positioned correctly from the start have a much better chance of attracting serious buyers and staying under contract.

Inspections and negotiations are part of the process. Buyers are inspecting homes again and asking for repairs. In many areas, contract cancellation rates are higher than they were during the peak market. 

Sellers who expect an easy transaction with no negotiation often face delays or failed contracts. Even with as-is language, being willing to work through inspection items can make the difference between closing and starting over.

Equity changes the perspective. Many homeowners have built a large amount of equity in a short period of time. In some cases, gains from the last five years equal what would normally take decades. That level of growth is not typical and is unlikely to repeat soon. For primary residences, current tax rules allow significant capital gains exclusions, which is another factor sellers should understand as they plan.

Why does planning now still make sense? You can still sell for a strong price compared to where the market was five years ago. At the same time, buyers now have more choices and more negotiating power, which can work in your favor if you’re also buying. The key is having a clear plan. 

If selling your home in 2026 is even on your radar, starting the conversation early can make the process far smoother and far more rewarding. 

If you’re considering a sale or simply want to understand your options, feel free to call or text me at 910-218-8879 or email buddy@buddyblake.com. I'll help you review the market, look at timing and equity, and build a plan that aligns with your goals.