After years of bidding wars and waived inspections, the housing market has finally exhaled. Economists are calling 2026 “the great reset” — and for families planning a move to a conservative state, it may be the best negotiating window in years.
Prices have gone flat — and fallen in the Sun Belt
National home prices are projected to rise only about 1% over the next year, a dramatic slowdown from the pandemic boom. And in much of the Sun Belt, prices are actually falling. After a wave of new construction, markets like Cape Coral, North Port, and Palm Bay in Florida, and Austin, Corpus Christi, and Sherman in Texas, are forecast to post modest price declines. For buyers, that glut of homes means real leverage.
Rates are steady, not scary
The 30-year fixed mortgage has settled around 6.3% and is expected to ease slightly into 2027. That is a far cry from sub-3% pandemic rates, but it is also stable — and stability lets you plan. Many buyers are purchasing now and planning to refinance later if rates dip, rather than waiting on the sidelines while rents climb.
More inventory means more negotiating power
With homes sitting longer, sellers are offering concessions again: price cuts, closing-cost help, and rate buydowns. That is a meaningful shift after years of sellers holding all the cards. If you are relocating, it means your dollar stretches further in your destination — especially in the affordable Southern and Mountain-West metros where new supply is highest.
The key: coordinate both sides of your move
A reset market rewards families who sell smart and buy smart at the same time. That is exactly what we do — one coordinated team listing your current home for top dollar while a trusted agent negotiates hard for you in your new state, so nothing falls through the cracks.
See what a move could save you with our State Tax Savings Calculator, explore our free relocation resources, and get started free whenever you are ready.