As the winter frost begins to thaw across the Willamette Valley and the Coast, the Oregon housing market is heating up in a way we haven't seen in years. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for "breathing room," 2026 is looking like your year!
While the post-pandemic years were defined by "bidding war fatigue," this February is telling a different story: one of stability, selection, and strategy.
1) The "Spring Surge" is Starting Early
Historically, March and April are the peak months for sellers in Oregon. However, data from early 2026 shows that buyer traffic is already higher than it was this time last year.
For Buyers: Inventory is currently trending higher than in 2025. This means you actually have time to think before making an offer—a luxury we didn't have a few years ago.
For Sellers: With traffic "warming up" early, getting your home on the market in February or early March allows you to capture motivated buyers before the market becomes saturated with competing listings in May
2) New 2026 Laws You Need to Know
Several significant changes to Oregon Real Estate Law went into effect on January 1, 2026. These aren't just for my realtor colleagues and me; they affect how you buy and sell:
Increased Transparency: New regulations now require clearer disclosures regarding "real estate teams." This ensures you know exactly who is representing you and how your data and interests are being managed within a brokerage.
Landlord-Tenant Updates: For those looking at investment properties, HB 3522 is now in effect, providing property owners with a more streamlined process for reclaiming property from unauthorized occupants (squatters).
Tax-Advantaged Savings: Oregon's First-Time Home Buyer Savings Account remains a powerful tool. In 2026, you can subtract up to $6,285 (or $12,570 for joint filers) from your taxable income for contributions made toward your first home purchase.
3) The "New Normal" for Interest Rates
Economists are seeing rates stabilize in the low-to-mid 6% range. While we may never see the 3% rates of the past again, the volatility has settled. This predictability is bringing "move-up" buyers back into the market—homeowners who were previously "locked in" by low rates but now realize that their current home no longer fits their lifestyle.
Pro-Tip for Sellers: The "Move-In Ready" Premium
In a balanced market like we’re seeing this February, presentation isn't just a "nice-to-have"—it's your biggest leverage. With inventory rising, buyers are increasingly skipping homes that need work in favor of those that are turn-key.
But what if you don’t have the cash upfront for a new roof, fresh carpets, or professional staging?
I have a solution designed specifically for this scenario called Refresh.
Through the Refresh program, my clients can access a specialized loan to handle all the necessary pre-market preparations:
Major Repairs: New roof, HVAC updates, or exterior siding.
Cosmetic Upgrades: Modern flooring, fresh neutral paint, and updated lighting.
High-Impact Extras: Professional staging and deep cleaning.
The best part? You don’t pay a dime out of pocket. The costs are covered upfront and simply paid back out of the proceeds once your home sells. It’s a low-stress way to ensure your home commands the highest possible price without draining your savings before the move.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking for a craftsman in Portland, acreage in Central Oregon, or a coastal retreat in Lincoln City, the 2026 market is offering something we've missed: options.
Ready to see how the Refresh program could work for your home? I can provide a complimentary "Market Ready" consultation to help you decide which upgrades will give you the best return on investment.
