The 2026 Market: What to Tell Your Clients Right Now

How's the market? It's the question every agent gets asked. And in Summer 2026, no two markets give the same answer.   This week, Tom sits down with David Childers, CEO of Keeping Current Matters, for the data and context agents need to give clients the right answer right now.   David brings the latest on mortgage rates, inventory, pricing, and foreclosures. And contrary to what most of the headlines are saying: no, the market isn't crashing.   If your sellers think they'll get asking price, your buyers think rates will crater, and everyone thinks foreclosures mean another 2008 — this episode is your reset.   In this episode, you'll learn: The Bifurcation Map: Why California, Washington, and Florida prices are softening — while the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast remain rock-solid. The Rate Reality: What mortgage rates are actually doing — and the lender play that can lower a buyer's rate today. The Equity Cushion: The number every agent should have memorized. The 80/40 Listing Truth: 80% of sellers expect to get their asking price. Only 40% do. Here's how to use that gap on listing appointments. The Inventory Reality: Why only 15 states have returned to 2019 inventory — and what that means for your local market.   Watch the episode now and then make sure to download David’s slides to use them in your presentations, conversations, and marketing. Get David’s slides here:  👉https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1iOsH-FyajxgrpXIUdpEnLK78zGfiUz97/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110484379841180842609&rtpof=true&sd=true   Ready to become the agent your market actually trusts for answers? The agents who thrive in markets like this don't have better opinions. They have better data — and the discipline to use it. That's the foundation of Tom Ferry coaching.   Schedule a free conversation with our office to learn more about coaching and see if it's right for you. 📞 https://www.tomferry.com/free-coaching-consultation/