February 2026 New Hampshire Housing Report

What’s Happening in the Market?

• The February market reflected a slower pace across much of the country, largely influenced by typical seasonality and significant winter weather in the Northeast. Nationally, sales activity remained relatively subdued month over month as snowstorms and cold conditions delayed showings and transactions, while prices continued to hold steady due to ongoing inventory constraints. In New England, the market experienced a more noticeable slowdown, with heavy snowfall limiting buyer activity and new listings, though underlying demand remained intact.
• Meanwhile, in South Florida, the market continued to follow a different trajectory. Warmer weather and steady migration supported ongoing buyer activity, with inventory levels gradually improving and giving buyers slightly more options compared to the tight conditions seen in the Northeast. Overall, February highlighted the growing regional divide — with weather temporarily slowing the Northeast while South Florida maintained momentum driven by lifestyle demand and population growth.
• According to the National Association of Realtors, housing activity in February remained constrained but stable, as buyers continued adjusting to mortgage rates and affordability conditions. Chief Economist Lawrence Yun has noted:

“Housing affordability is improving, and consumers are responding. Still, there is a long way to go to return to pre-pandemic levels of transaction activity. There are more than 6 million more jobs than in 2019, yet home sales per year are down by one million. Despite the modest gain in home sales, actual housing demand remains muted relative to wage growth and job gains. Inventory is growing, but sluggishly.” 

• According to Mortgage News Daily, rates remained in the high-5% to low-6% range throughout February, helping keep buyers engaged despite slower seasonal activity. They’re currently back to mid-6%. 
• As always, well-qualified borrowers may secure more favorable terms, and staying pre-approved remains essential in a competitive environment.
• Inventory levels in 2026 continue to trend slightly higher than last year, but supply remains tight enough — especially in New England — to sustain competition and support home values. Buyers should be prepared for increased activity as the weather improves and more homes hit the market in the coming months.
• We always see sellers miss out on earning the most value for their homes by waiting until the summer, which is why spring is the perfect time. There are plenty of reasons why moving during the springtime is beneficial, and we’ve broken down the top nine.
• Buyers and sellers, the reports are out for last year’s hottest towns and towns with the greatest year-over-year price growth! Considering making a move? Understand your local market and if it beat the rest!