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For Buyers | For Sellers | Home Prices | Mortgage Rates | Forecasts

After a few years where the Omaha Metro housing market felt like it was in neutral, 2026 may be the year things start moving again. Experts predict more people will make moves next year—which could be your chance to take action too.

More Homes Could Sell in the Omaha Metro

High home prices and rising mortgage rates caused many potential movers in Omaha, Lincoln, Papillion, Bennington, Elkhorn, and Council Bluffs to hit the pause button. But that pause won’t last forever. People still need to move, whether it’s upgrading, downsizing, or relocating for work.

Experts expect more of them to take action in 2026, and that means more homes selling across the region:

Think neighborhoods like Dundee, West Omaha, and the growing outskirts of Papillion and Elkhorn—more homes could change hands next year.

Two main factors are driving this change: mortgage rates and home prices. Let’s break down what the forecasts say.

Mortgage Rates Could Slowly Ease

For buyers, lower mortgage rates have been at the top of the wish list. After peaking near 7% earlier this year, rates have started to come down.

Forecasts suggest this trend may continue into 2026, but don’t expect a straight shot down:

There’s a saying in real estate: rates go up like an escalator, but they come down like stairs.

Expect modest improvements in mortgage rates throughout the year, with some ups and downs along the way as new economic data emerges. Overall, though, experts say rates could dip into the low 6s—or even high 5s.

Even a small decline can make a big difference in your monthly mortgage payment. If rates drop from 7% to, say, 6.25%, homeowners in the Omaha Metro could save hundreds every month—money that makes homes more affordable for buyers in Lincoln, Papillion, Council Bluffs, and surrounding communities.

Home Price Growth Will Be Moderate

What about prices? Nationwide, experts predict home prices will continue to rise, but at a slower, more sustainable pace. The same holds true for the Omaha Metro.

As mortgage rates ease, more buyers are likely to return to the market, keeping demand steady. That means prices probably won’t drop sharply—even in areas where some cooling is already happening.

Of course, local trends will vary:

  • Lincoln and West Omaha may see steady appreciation thanks to strong demand.
  • Suburban areas like Papillion, Elkhorn, and Bennington could experience moderate growth as inventory tightens.
  • Council Bluffs may see slower increases but still remain attractive for buyers looking for affordability near Omaha.

This slower, more predictable growth is good news for both buyers and sellers. It gives buyers a chance to plan budgets without fearing sudden spikes, and it allows sellers to price homes confidently.

Bottom Line

After a quieter couple of years, 2026 is shaping up to bring more activity to the Omaha Metro housing market. With more homes expected to sell, mortgage rates likely easing, and price growth moderating, it’s an opportune time for both buyers and sellers.

So the question is: will 2026 be your year to make a move in Lincoln, Omaha, Papillion, Bennington, Elkhorn, or Council Bluffs?

Let’s connect and get you ready to take advantage of the opportunities ahead.

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