Right now, the housing market may feel slower than usual, and you’re not alone in noticing it. More homeowners are pressing pause and even pulling their listings. But here’s the good news: history shows us that the housing market always recovers.

Many buyers and sellers in Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and the surrounding areas are asking the same questions:“Is now the right time?” or “Should I wait until things improve?” The truth is, while the market may shift, real estate is resilient. And with the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence.

Past Slumps That Prove the Market Recovers

Over the years, housing has faced ups and downs. Recessions, high interest rates, and affordability challenges have caused slowdowns, but each time the market has recovered and continued to grow stronger.

• 1980s: Mortgage rates soared past 18%, freezing activity. When rates dropped, buyer demand returned in full force.

• 2008: The Great Financial Crisis took a toll on housing, but as the economy recovered, home sales and prices came back strong.

• 2020: The pandemic slowed everything down—but the rebound became one of the fastest in history.

Notice the trend? Every dip is followed by recovery. That is why short-term challenges should not keep you from your long-term goals of homeownership or building equity through real estate.

Today’s Numbers: Stability Before the Turn

Affordability has been a major challenge lately due to higher mortgage rates and rising prices. Still, the market is holding steady, and forecasts point toward a brighter outlook.

Here’s what the numbers show:

• 2024: Home sales finished around 4 million.

• 2025: Tracking in a similar range.

• 2026: Forecasts project an increase to nearly 4.6 million home sales.

Looking ahead, experts are forecasting that 2026 could bring a surge in home sales as conditions improve. That means sellers who prepare now and buyers who plan ahead will be in the best position to take advantage of the next wave of opportunity.

What This Means for You

If you are a homeowner thinking of selling, now is the time to start getting your property market ready. Small improvements and a strong marketing strategy can make a huge difference when more buyers enter the market.

If you are a buyer, positioning yourself now, whether that is getting pre-approved, understanding neighborhoods, or exploring financing options, ensures you will not miss out when more homes become available.

• If you paused your listing: That’s completely normal—and likely temporary.

• If you’re planning ahead: Now is the time to get positioned before buyer demand comes back stronger.

• If you want an advantage: Timing the market with a trusted local expert can help you get the most out of your home sale.

Key Takeaways

History shows that every housing slowdown is temporary, and the market always finds its way back. Right now, sales activity in 2025 is tracking closely with 2024, which signals stability even during tighter affordability. Looking ahead, forecasts show that 2026 could bring a significant boost in home sales, giving homeowners and buyers more opportunities. The most important thing to remember is that being prepared matters. Sellers who take steps now will be in the best position to benefit when demand strengthens again.

💡 Let’s put a strategy in place today so you are ready to take advantage of tomorrow’s market.

📞 Call Don Reid Properties today at (804) 929-4475 or schedule your free consultation here