Realtor.com Economist Hannah Jones: Spring 2026 Market | Real Estate Update

In this episode of the Mortgage Research Network Podcast, host Paul Centopani sits down with Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com, to break down what to expect in the Spring 2026 housing market — and whether conditions are improving for buyers.From the persistent housing supply gap to regional disparities and affordability barriers, this conversation explains what's happening in the world of real estate and what to expect going forward. Hannah also unpacks how different price points affect inventory, why young buyers continue to struggle, and how vacant homes factor into the broader housing shortage.They also explore key policy efforts like the Housing in the 21st Century Act, how potential reforms could impact supply and affordability, and whether fears of another housing crash are justified. Plus, practical insights into what consumers can do right now to better position themselves in today’s market.Whether you’re actively looking to buy or just trying to understand where the housing market is headed, this episode delivers a clear, data-driven outlook for Spring 2026.Connect with Mortgage Research Network:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MortgageResearchNetworkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mortgageresearchnetwork/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtgresearchnewsWebsite: MortgageResearch.comConnect with Hannah Jones:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahejones1/First Time Homebuyer Cheat Sheet: https://bit.ly/4w8CiVMHomebuyer Calculators: https://bit.ly/4n0hDPvConnect With a Lender: https://bit.ly/426Gyaw🔑 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the housing supply gap still exists — and where it’s most severeWhich regions are being hit hardest by inventory shortagesWhat factors could help close the housing gapHow different price tiers impact housing availabilityThe biggest barriers facing young and first-time homebuyersHow vacant properties influence housing supplyWhat the Housing in the 21st Century Act aims to doHow policy reforms could affect affordability and inventoryWhether the market is at risk of another housing crashWhat buyers and consumers can do to navigate today’s marketKey trends to watch for the Spring 2026 housing season⏱️ Episode Timeline00:00 – IntroductionPaul introduces the podcast and guest Hannah Jones.00:25 – About Hannah JonesBackground and role at Realtor.com.01:44 – Housing Market GapWhy supply continues to fall short of demand.02:44 – Regions That Are AffectedWhere shortages are most pronounced.03:43 – What Could Help Close the GapPotential solutions to increase supply.04:30 – How Price Points Impact the GapWhy affordability varies across market segments.06:26 – Barriers for Young HomebuyersChallenges facing first-time buyers.08:23 – Vacant PropertiesHow unused homes factor into supply issues.09:43 – Housing in the 21st Century ActOverview of proposed housing policy.10:44 – How Reform Affects HousingPotential impacts on supply and affordability.11:48 – Defining Housing & Mortgage TermsBreaking down key concepts for consumers.13:00 – Should We Worry About Another Crash?Evaluating risks in today’s market.14:10 – What Consumers Can DoSteps buyers can take right now.15:28 – Most Interesting Market TrendsWhat stands out in today’s housing landscape.16:40 – What’s Ahead for Spring 2026Expert outlook for the upcoming season.🎯 Who This Episode Is ForFirst-time and prospective homebuyersAnyone planning to buy a home in 2026Homeowners tracking market trendsReal estate and mortgage professionalsAnyone interested in the economy and housing marketFor more insights into the spring housing market, visit MortgageResearch.com.