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Real estate markets are local, and national trends don’t always reflect your neighborhood. Here’s what the numbers really say.

One question I hear all the time is whether home prices are finally coming down in 2026. With so many headlines about the housing market and interest rates, it’s understandable why homeowners are wondering if values are starting to drop.

From what I’m seeing here in West Michigan, that isn’t happening right now, because home values in many areas are still going up.

I’ve been in the real estate business for 34 years, and one thing experience has taught me is that real estate markets are always local. National news may talk about slowdowns in certain cities, but those trends don’t always match what’s happening in your own neighborhood. Here in West Michigan, home values continue to rise, underscoring the importance of looking at local data rather than relying solely on national headlines.

“The West Michigan housing market is still strong,

and many home values are continuing to move upward.”

How do you determine your home’s true market value?

If you’re curious about what your home might be worth today, the most reliable way to find out is to look at recent comparable sales. Online estimates can give you a general idea, but they often miss details that affect value, such as the home’s condition, the updates made, and how the property compares to others nearby.

The best way to evaluate a property is to review homes similar to yours that have recently sold in the same area. Looking at comparable properties helps show what buyers have actually paid in the current market, giving homeowners a much more accurate picture than a quick online estimate.

What else should you consider when evaluating your home’s value?

It also helps to understand the expenses involved and the process timeline, since both can influence the final decision. Looking at comparable sales, along with understanding costs and timing, gives homeowners a clearer picture of what selling in today’s market might look like.

Selling a home doesn’t have to feel complicated. When you understand what homes like yours are selling for and what the process looks like, it becomes much easier to decide your next step.

If you’re curious about your home’s value or thinking about selling and have questions, feel free to call or text me at (616) 532-7200 or email me at larrymartin.com@gmail.com. I’d be happy to walk through your property, review comparable sales, and help you understand the best timing and strategy for your situation.