Nobody's Buying Homes? Here's What's Really Happening in 2026

Is the housing market really dead, or is that just what the headlines want you to believe? In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down what's actually happening in today's real estate market. Buyers are still buying—but they're shopping differently, negotiating harder, and taking more time before making an offer. They also tackle one of the biggest myths in real estate: "Homes were so much cheaper in the 1980s." Were they really? When you factor in mortgage rates, inflation, and wages, the story isn't as simple as many people think. If you've ever said, "I'm going to wait," or "No one's buying right now," this episode will give you the numbers and perspective you need before making your next move. Whether you're buying, selling, or just curious about where the market is headed, this episode separates the headlines from reality. #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate2026 #HousingMarket #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #IllinoisRealEstate #MortgageRates #RealEstatePodcast #EXITRealEstate #EddieRuettiger Chapters 00:00:00 Thinking Nobody Is Buying Homes? 00:04:25 Buyers Aren't Jumping on the First House 00:08:14 Were Homes Really Cheaper in the 1980s? 00:13:51 You Paid Too Much... Would You Sell for Less? 00:17:48 Run the Numbers Before You Decide