Your 2026 Guide to the Portland Real Estate Market

As 2026 approaches, homeowners and buyers across Portland and Beaverton are asking the same core questions:

• Will 2026 be a good year to buy or sell a home in the Portland metro area?
• Are home prices in Beaverton going up or stabilizing?
• Will mortgage rates finally improve?
• Is 2026 the right time to move, downsize, or invest?

After years of turbulence—from the pandemic boom to the corrections of 2023–2025—the Portland and Beaverton housing markets are settling into a more predictable rhythm. But the decisions buyers and sellers make in 2026 will still require strategy, clarity, and a strong understanding of neighborhood-level trends.

Here is your updated, data-aligned, geo-optimized look at what to expect.

1. Inventory Is Improving—Especially in Beaverton and the Westside

After an extended period of low supply, inventory finally began rising in late 2024 and continued building throughout 2025. The Beaverton market, in particular, saw more listings as homeowners felt confident enough to move and as new construction increased in nearby areas like South Beaverton, Murrayhill, and Cooper Mountain.

What to expect in 2026:

1. Continued but modest inventory growth across the Portland metro.
2. More move-up sellers listing their homes as rates stabilize.
3. Ongoing new-construction activity in suburban areas where land is more available, especially in Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Happy Valley.

This won’t create a true buyer’s market, but it will offer more choice than buyers have had in years—a major benefit for anyone planning a move to or within Beaverton.

2. Mortgage Rates in 2026: Slow Relief, But Still Higher Than Pre-Pandemic

Rates peaked in 2023, then gradually improved through 2024 and 2025. Most projections show steady but moderate improvements for 2026—not a dramatic drop.

How this impacts buyers and sellers:

• Rates in the low-to-mid 6% range may become the norm.
• Buyers regain some purchasing power.
• Sellers benefit from a larger pool of qualified buyers.
• Homeowners who bought at 7%+ may finally be in a position to refinance.

The ultra-low rates of 2020–2021 are behind us. The market now rewards buyers and sellers who plan ahead and work closely with agents who understand Beaverton’s micro-market trends.

3. Home Prices: Steady Appreciation With Strong Demand in Beaverton

Not all neighborhoods behave the same. Over the past three years, Portland saw uneven price growth, while Beaverton continued to perform well thanks to strong schools, stable employers, and consistent buyer demand.

In 2026, expect:

1. Modest price appreciation across the metro
2. Above-average demand in established Beaverton neighborhoods like Murrayhill, Sexton Mountain, Bethany, and Cedar Mill
3. Strong performance from close-in Portland neighborhoods such as Sellwood, Richmond, and Laurelhurst

Buyers will compare condition, updates, and pricing more carefully than ever. Sellers who price strategically—and present their home professionally—will stand out.

4. Buyer Behavior in 2026: More Thoughtful, More Local, and Still Motivated

The frenzy is gone. Today’s buyers in Portland and Beaverton are far more strategic.

They are:

• Less impulsive and more patient
• Focused on long-term value and home condition
• Prioritizing school districts, commute flexibility, and lifestyle
• More open to suburban options like Beaverton for affordability and amenities

For buyers, this means more room to compare and negotiate.

 For sellers, it means presentation, pricing accuracy, and strong marketing matter more than ever.

 5. Lifestyle Is Still the No. 1 Motivator for Moves

Economics influence timing, but lifestyle drives decisions.

In 2026 expect moves driven by:

• Growing families needing more space
• Empty nesters downsizing
• Multigenerational living
• Desire for walkability or proximity to top schools
• Shorter commutes or better access to tech-corridor employers
• Staying closer to recreation, healthcare, or outdoor amenities

This is especially true in Beaverton, where families value parks, schools, and well-planned neighborhoods.

6. 2026 Opportunities for Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers

The most common question buyers ask going into 2026 is: “Is now finally a better time to buy?”

In many ways—yes. You’ll benefit from:

• More inventory
• A more balanced pace
• Less competition
• Predictable price growth

Buyers who get pre-approved early and understand their purchasing power will have an advantage in Beaverton’s competitive neighborhoods.

For Sellers

Sellers frequently ask: “Will my home still sell quickly in 2026?”

 The answer: When it’s priced right and well-prepared—absolutely.

Key success factors:

• Accurate market-based pricing
• Completing critical repairs before listing
• Professional staging
• High-quality digital marketing (video, social media, and strong SEO)
• Working with an experienced team that understands Beaverton’s sub-markets and buyer preferences

Homes that check these boxes will outperform the market.

What This Means for You

The 2026 Portland and Beaverton real estate markets are shaping up to be stable, predictable, and full of opportunity. Whether affordability improves or inventory grows faster than expected, one thing is clear: local expertise matters more than ever.

If you’re planning a move in 2026, timing, preparation, and strategy will make all the difference.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in 2026?

Our team specializes in helping Portland and Beaverton clients make confident, well-planned real estate decisions. Whether you want a market analysis, neighborhood insights, or step-by-step support for your next move, we’re here to guide every part of the process.

Reach out anytime to learn what your home is worth or to explore buying opportunities in today’s evolving market.

Carey Hughes Homes — Trusted Local Experts in Beaverton & the Portland Metro

 Your move matters. We’ll help you make it with clarity and confidence.