Is the housing market in for a sudden shift, or are we just in a holding pattern?
With 2025 behind us and 2026 well underway, the market continues to show signs of stability and subtle adjustments, but it’s clear that buyers and sellers alike should expect more than just a “wait-and-see” approach. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening right now and what it means for you, whether you're in Fort Lauderdale, looking to buy or sell, or simply staying informed.

📉 Mortgage Rates: What’s the Real Story?

Mortgage rates have been fluctuating recently — notably, the 30-year fixed rate has jumped back to 6.21%, as of January 19th, 2026. While this may sound like a rise, it’s important to understand that the overall mortgage market is stabilizing after a series of changes.

What this means:

• The recent shift upwards is partly driven by global risk events and geopolitical factors, not just the Fed’s actions.

• Rate volatility is expected to continue for now, with rates likely to hover in the low 6% range throughout the year.

• For buyers, this means the time to act is now if you want to lock in these rates before potential future increases. For sellers, a stable market creates opportunities for strong offers — especially if your home is priced well.

🏠 Housing Market Trends: More Inventory, More Opportunities

Here’s the key takeaway: inventory is up and supply remains tight in South Florida.

Key data from Fort Lauderdale and South Florida:

• Total active listings as of December 2025: 55,700

• New listings in December: 7,906

• Pending listings: 8,583

• Overall, inventory is growing but still remains below historical averages.

What this means for you:

• Buyers: With more homes on the market, there’s less pressure to make quick decisions and more room for negotiations.

• Sellers: If you’re listing in early 2026, you have a strategic opportunity to take advantage of the current inventory shortage. The key is pricing correctly and acting quickly before more competition enters in the spring.

💡 The Fed Outlook: Rate Cuts? Not So Fast

The Federal Reserve’s actions in 2026 will likely have a major impact on the housing market. As of now, January 2026, the chances of a 25bps rate cut are still low at 5%, meaning the Fed is likely to keep rates stable for the time being.

Why it matters:

• Buyers: Rates are unlikely to drop significantly in the short term. However, if you’re ready to purchase, pre-approval is crucial to secure the best financing terms.

• Sellers: With stable rates, we can expect to see continued demand — but proper pricing and timing are more important than ever.

📈 A Strategic 2026 Market

In summary, the 2026 housing market is shaping up to be a balanced one:

• For buyers: With higher inventory, more negotiating power, and a more stable mortgage environment, this is an ideal time to make moves before spring competition ramps up.

• For sellers: Acting now could position you to lead the market instead of competing in the crowded spring market. Keep an eye on inventory levels and adjust your price accordingly.

At The MPH Team, we believe in strategy over reaction. 2026 offers a smart window of opportunity, and it’s crucial to understand the shifting dynamics in the market, especially here in Fort Lauderdale.

If you’re ready to make a move — whether buying, selling, or investing — let us guide you through the current market conditions and ensure you make the most informed decisions possible.