Real Estate Roundup for Spring 2026

The AJT asked a panel of local realtors to discuss the current state of the metro Atlanta real estate market. Topics included key challenges in the current residential market, emerging trends, and advice for both buyers and sellers. Read on to find out about Atlanta’s current real estate market.

Jon Shapiro
Associate Broker, RE/MAX Around Atlanta, The Jon Shapiro Group

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?
Some challenges in our current market are rising interest rates, lagging consumer confidence, lack of affordable options for first-time homebuyers, and sellers not willing to sell as they don’t give up the low interest rate obtained several years back.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?
The emerging trends in today’s market I am seeing more Baby Boomer parents substantially helping their kids (unless their last name is Shapiro) buy homes close by as they see it as a win-win. Parents are close by to be more engaged with their kids and grandkids and the kids/grandkids are close by as they are aging and might need some help. Multi-generational housing is becoming more popular, and we are nationally seeing trends of families sharing homes to help manage the rising expense of home ownership.

Can you give any specific advice to potential homeowners looking to buy this year?
First, work with a buyer’s agent who has experience in your market and can advocate for you. We are still involved in bidding wars and 16 percent of homes are still selling over the list price in our market. Buyers will have more inventory to pick from than in previous years. Since interest rates are at a seven-month high, you will be able to negotiate more favorable terms on many homes as the higher interest rates can create less buying interest.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?
There are great selling prices to be had. Be a retail sale by getting your home in peak marketable condition. Work with a listing agent who is experienced in your market and can give your home maximum exposure. There are many nuances to getting a home sold in today’s market, from how the agents are compensated to where the listing is appearing and to making sure disclosures are completely filled out. There is a reason For Sale By Owners (FSBO) rates are at historical lows. The speculation is the prices are going to remain relatively flat in the next year in most markets so no real reason to wait if you are ready.

Amy Barocas
Realtor, Harry Normal Realtors, The Barocas & Feldman Team

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?
The 2026 real estate market can best be described as balanced, but the market also requires knowledge and caution. While we are seeing improvement in certain areas, there are still several challenges impacting both buyers and sellers today.
One of the primary challenges continues to be affordability. Many buyers remain hesitant to begin the home buying process due to elevated interest rates and home prices. While rates are beginning to stabilize, they are still significantly higher than what many buyers had become accustomed to in previous years. At the same time, home values, although leveling off in some areas, still present a barrier to entry for many prospective buyers. This combination has led to a more cautious and intentional buyer pool.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?
From an inventory standpoint, we are encouraged to see an increase in new listings compared to last year. However, when we look at the broader picture, inventory levels still remain historically low. What we are experiencing now is a more segmented market. In some areas and price points, we continue to see strong seller activity, while in others, conditions have shifted in favor of buyers. This has created a more balanced environment overall, where strategy and market knowledge are critical.
Another key trend is the growing divide between buyer expectations and available inventory. Many of the opportunities in today’s market lie in older homes that require updates or renovation. These properties often offer buyers a chance to enter the market at a lower price point and build equity over time through improvements. However, a significant portion of buyers continue to seek turnkey, move-in-ready homes with minimal disruption. This gap has created increased opportunity for investors and flippers, who are stepping in to renovate and reposition these homes to meet buyer demand.

Can you give any specific advice to potential homeowners looking to buy this year?
In working with buyers, we focus on the long-term value of homeownership for our clients rather than short-term market conditions. We help to guide them to an investment that we would seek for our own family.
Homeownership provides stability, the ability to build wealth over time, and a sense of community. Interest rates will continue to fluctuate, as they always have. The key is to find the right home that meets your needs today, with the understanding that financing can be adjusted in the future as rates evolve.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?
For sellers, success in today’s market requires a more thoughtful and strategic approach. We strongly encourage sellers to partner with a trusted real estate advisor who understands the local market dynamics. Preparing the home properly, through decluttering, light updates, and professional staging remains critical. Equally important is thoughtful pricing and a comprehensive marketing strategy to ensure the home is positioned effectively within its specific market segment.
Ultimately, today’s real estate market presents both challenges and opportunities. It is no longer driven by urgency or scarcity alone, but rather by informed decision making, preparation, and strong professional guidance. Those who take a strategic, long-term approach will find meaningful success in this evolving environment.

Pailey Nooromid
Realtor, Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?
The market feels very different right now depending on the price point, location, and condition of the home. Buyers are definitely more selective than they were a few years ago, and homes that are overpriced or not fully market ready are sitting longer. With today’s interest rates, buyers are paying much closer attention to monthly payments, so pricing, presentation, and negotiation strategy matter more than ever. That said, good homes that are positioned correctly are still selling, and there are plenty of serious buyers actively looking.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?
Buyers are definitely prioritizing functionality more than ever right now and really want homes that fit the way they actually live day-to-day. We’re also seeing a big shift toward move-in ready homes. Most buyers are busy and don’t want to take on major renovations unless the pricing really makes sense for it. Clean, updated homes are getting the strongest response.
Design-wise, buyers are moving away from the super stark all-white modern look and leaning more toward warmer, timeless finishes. Functional kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, tons of natural light, and great indoor-outdoor living spaces are some of the biggest things people are looking for right now.

Can you give any specific advice to potential homeowners looking to buy this year?
My biggest advice to buyers right now is to focus on your personal timing, not trying to perfectly time the market based on headlines or what people say is the “best” time to buy. I always encourage buyers to stay flexible and strategic. Sometimes the best opportunities are homes that have been sitting a little longer where there’s more room to negotiate.
Also, make sure you’re working with a team that really knows the market on a hyper-local level. Real estate can vary so much from neighborhood to neighborhood, especially in Atlanta, and having the right realtor makes a huge difference.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?
Preparation and pricing are everything right now. Professional photography, strong marketing, and pricing the home correctly from the beginning make a huge difference. Buyers are still willing to pay a premium for homes that feel special, updated, and move-in ready.
I also think it’s really important to work with a realtor who values marketing and strategy and is proactive throughout the process, not passive. In this market, it’s not enough to just put a home online and hope the right buyer finds it.

Zac Pasmanick
Realtor, The Zac Team, RE/MAX Metro Atlanta Cityside

What are some key challenges in the current residential real estate market?
Affordability remains one of the biggest challenges in today’s residential real estate market. Higher mortgage interest rates, rising insurance costs, taxes, and inflation have made buyers more cautious. In Atlanta, inventory is still limited in many popular price ranges, especially for updated, move-in-ready homes. Sellers also face a more balanced market where proper pricing and preparation matter much more than they did during the rapid post-pandemic market.

Are there any emerging trends in today’s market?
Buyers today are far more value conscious. Homes that are well-priced and well-presented are still selling, while overpriced homes often sit longer. We are also seeing continued migration into Metro Atlanta because of its strong job market, lifestyle, and relative affordability compared to many major cities.
Technology is playing a larger role as well. Buyers expect professional photography, video tours, social media marketing, and quick access to information. Flexible living spaces, including home offices and multi-generational layouts, also continue to be in demand.

Can you give any specific advice to potential homeowners looking to buy this year?
My advice to buyers is not to try to perfectly time the market. Instead, focus on purchasing a home that fits your long-term financial goals and lifestyle needs. Buyers should get fully pre-approved before shopping and work with an experienced local agent who understands Atlanta neighborhood values and negotiation strategies.
I also encourage buyers to think long-term. Real estate has historically remained one of the best tools for building wealth, particularly in growing markets like Atlanta.

Conversely, any advice for those looking to sell?
Pricing is critical in today’s market. Sellers who price correctly from the start generally attract more attention and stronger offers. Presentation matters more than ever, so decluttering, minor repairs, staging, and professional photography can significantly impact results.
Sellers should also understand that today’s buyers are educated and selective. Strong marketing and local expertise are essential. After more than 40 years in Atlanta residential real estate, I’ve experienced many market cycles and understand that every market requires a different strategy.