Did the housing market crash in January 2026?

No. National existing home sales declined 8.4% month-over-month, largely attributed to below-normal temperatures, above-normal precipitation, and the typical holiday-season slowdown in contract signings. The national affordability index reached its highest point since March 2022, and home prices continued their 31-month streak of year-over-year increases.

Are Reno-Sparks home values declining?

Per-square-foot values held essentially flat in Reno at $325/sqft (+0.2% year-over-year) and increased 3.5% in Sparks to $292/sqft in January 2026. Sellers in both markets received 98.6-98.8% of their asking price.

Is spring 2026 a good time to sell a home in Reno?

Spring 2026 presents a strong window for prepared sellers. Mortgage rates are at three-year lows (6.09%), buyer affordability is the best since March 2022, and Reno's economy ranks #1 nationally for growth. Sellers who list before the late-spring competition wave typically face less competition and more motivated buyers.

How much equity does the typical homeowner have right now?

The typical U.S. homeowner holds nearly $300,000 in equity. In Reno-Sparks, where median prices have outpaced national averages, long-term homeowners may hold even more. Since January 2020, the average homeowner has accumulated approximately $130,500 in housing wealth.

Why is the Reno housing market different from the national market?

Reno's economy is outperforming national trends. The metro was ranked #1 for economic growth out of 949 national metros, with $534 million in new business investment, 593 new jobs at $76,800 average salary, and the #1 fastest-growing data center hub in the country. This economic foundation creates sustained housing demand independent of national cycles.

How much have mortgage rates dropped compared to last year?

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.09% as of February 12, 2026, down nearly 80 basis points from 6.87% a year ago. On a $580,000 Reno home with 20% down, that translates to approximately $276 per month in savings for buyers.

Should I wait for rates to drop further before selling?

Waiting for lower rates could mean listing into a more crowded spring and summer market. The current environment — three-year-low rates, improving affordability, tight local inventory, and strong economic fundamentals — creates favorable conditions for sellers who are prepared to act strategically.

What makes a home sell for the strongest price in the current Reno market?

In a market where sellers are receiving 98.6-98.8% of asking price, the difference between a good outcome and an exceptional one comes down to strategic pricing, professional presentation, and timing. Homes that are properly staged, accurately priced for their neighborhood, and listed during peak showing activity consistently outperform.

#SellerMarket Archives - The Kinney & Renwick Team

Reno, Selling, Sparks

Why Reno-Sparks Sellers Are in a Stronger Position Than the Headlines Suggest

The following analysis combines national housing data released February 12, 2026, with local Reno-Sparks MLS statistics and regional economic data from EDAWN's 2026 State of…

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