Real Estate News 01/02/2026

Today’s News Synopsis:

In The News:

NAR – “2026 Mortgage Market Trends to Watch“ (01-02-2026)

“Bank of America’s Matt Vernon shares insights on how rates, loan products and technology could shape the mortgage landscape in the new year.

AllWork – “AI Companies Are Driving The Office Market’s Recovery” (12-31-2025)

“Technology firms account for roughly 20% of all office leases signed this year, underscoring the sector’s outsized influence on the market’s recovery.”

CNBC – “What to expect from the housing market in 2026—and the 10 major cities where prices could fall the most” (12-31-25)

“The housing market has spent the past few years stuck with high prices and slow sales. But in 2026, conditions are expected to ease slightly for buyers, a shift Redfin describes as a “reset” year.”

USA Today – “Bought or sold a home in 2025? Here’s what to know at tax time“ (01-01-2026)

“If you bought your first home during 2025 using a mortgage, you’re probably going to get a hand at tax time. Unlike rent, mortgage interest and property taxes are usually deductible. And with the expansive tax changes signed into law this summer, you may be able to take advantage of itemizing your expenses rather than relying on the standard deduction.”

CBS News – “What’s the home equity rate forecast for January 2025?“ (12-31-2025)

“Interest rates on home equity borrowing products, like home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), have trended downward over the last couple of years, making it more and more affordable for homeowners to borrow cash. That’s a big draw for borrowers who have home equity to tap into, especially now that the average homeowner has more than $300,000 worth of equity to tap into.”