If you’ve been wondering whether 2026 is the right time to buy or sell a home in Delaware County, you’re not alone.
After a slower-than-expected 2025, many buyers and sellers are feeling hesitant — unsure whether to move forward or continue waiting. I recently attended a market update led by a Bright MLS economist, and the data painted a much clearer picture of what’s actually happening locally versus what we’re hearing in the national news.
Spoiler alert: our local market isn’t lining up with the headlines.
Let’s break down what the numbers really say — and what they mean if you’re considering a move in 2026.
What Happened in the Delaware County Housing Market in 2025?
2025 was slower than expected across Delaware County. Closed sales and pending sales were down, not because demand disappeared — but because many buyers and sellers chose to wait.
Higher mortgage rates, economic uncertainty, and limited inventory caused a noticeable pause in activity. The charts clearly show fewer transactions compared to historical norms, even though interest in buying and selling never fully went away.
Delaware County Home Prices Are Up 46% Since 2020
Home prices in Delaware County have increased roughly 46% since 2020, making affordability a real challenge for buyers.
That said, price growth has slowed significantly. We’re no longer seeing rapid appreciation — but we also aren’t seeing meaningful price declines. The reason is simple: inventory remains extremely low.
Why Delaware County Is Still a Seller’s Market in 2026
Despite what national headlines may suggest, Delaware County is not in a buyer’s market.
Inventory levels are still well below normal — hovering around 50–60% of what we had in 2019. Fewer homes for sale means sellers continue to have leverage, especially when homes are priced correctly and well prepared.
This is where local data matters more than national news.
Homes in Delaware County Are Still Selling Quickly
Even with slower overall activity, homes that are priced right are still selling fast.
Median days on market remain low compared to pre-pandemic years. Buyers may be more cautious, but when the right home comes along, they act quickly — especially in desirable neighborhoods and price ranges.
Why Many Sellers Have Been Holding Back — and What Could Change in 2026
Many homeowners are sitting on historically low mortgage rates and feel “stuck,” unsure what they would buy if they sold.
In 2026, economists expect more sellers to enter the market regardless of interest rates, driven by life changes like downsizing, upsizing, job moves, or lifestyle shifts. This could help inventory modestly, but not enough to dramatically shift the market.
Mortgage Rates in 2026: What Buyers Should Expect
Based on Bright MLS and other major forecasters, mortgage rates are expected to remain above 6% through 2026.
While we may see slight improvements, a return to 3–4% rates is unlikely in the near future. Many buyers in 2026 will focus on buying the right home now and refinancing later if rates improve.
Is 2026 the Right Time to Buy or Sell in Delaware County?
The truth is, 2026 isn’t about timing the market — it’s about timing your life.
Buyers face less frenzy than past years, but competition still exists.
Sellers still benefit from low inventory and steady demand.
Preparation, pricing, and strategy matter more than ever.
Delaware County continues to operate differently than many national markets, and local insight makes all the difference.
If you’ve been hesitant to buy or sell because the market feels confusing or unpredictable, that’s completely understandable. My goal is to help you make sense of local data, not national noise.
If you want to talk through what buying or selling in 2026 could look like for your situation, I’m always happy to have that conversation — no pressure, just clarity.