A new year brings both opportunities and challenges, and 2026 is no exception. This coming year, the real estate industry is poised to see much-needed relief. Home sales are expected to rise because of easing mortgage rates, increased market stability and job gains. At the same time, home prices are expected to rise 4% due to supply shortages and steady demand. 

While these predictions are promising, the problem of affordability persists. The National Association of REALTORS®’ 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers found that for the first time on record, the median age of a first-time buyer in the United States is 40. First-time buyers continue to struggle to break into the market due to the lack of affordable homes. 

How do we harness the potential of the new year’s opportunities while successfully addressing its challenges? The answer is simple — by being prepared. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from 47 years in real estate, it’s the importance of preparedness. If you are not looking ahead, you are already behind. 

Prepared agents are successful agents. And being prepared means being proactive. There are no shortcuts to success. Agents need to show their value to clients and consumers. Crafting detailed market analyses, compiling tailored property recommendations and using the latest information will help you manage client expectations, and at the same time, allow clients to make data-driven decisions. Being proactive and providing the right information are what set successful agents apart. 

At NAR, we’re leveraging our vast resources to enhance our preparedness. How are we doing this? By getting back to business. We’re focusing on the issues that affect our members’ day-to-day business: financing, inventory, insurance, zoning restrictions and other barriers to homeownership. We’re enhancing our amazing advocacy work, cutting-edge research and innovative technology tools. And we’re leveling up our educational programming, expanding our broker-engagement efforts and restoring trust in the REALTOR® brand. NAR is committed to providing the data, resources and technology our members need to successfully get to and execute their next transaction. 

To help us get back to business, we have created our new Strategic Plan. Charting our course for the next three years, this plan spells out how the association will deliver value in an increasingly dynamic marketplace. It is guided by a clear purpose — NAR exists to build accessible and sustainable pathways to home and property ownership by empowering members, forming strong partnerships and representing the industry’s interests. 

My presidential term will be a year of listening, but also a year of action. As we implement the Strategic Plan and work to better our organization and our industry, I’m committed to listening to all of our stakeholders so we can successfully get NAR back to business in 2026. 

While the plan will help us implement important changes to better serve our members, some things won’t change. First, the agent will continue to be central to the transaction. According to the Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 88% of buyers and 91% of sellers used an agent in their most recent transactions. Consumers and clients continue to need and want our help. Second, Realtors will continue to set the standard through their expertise, professionalism and commitment to NAR’s Code of Ethics. 

Thank you for your hard work and dedication. Our industry is better because of your efforts. And thank you for doing the work necessary to take advantage of the opportunities and meet the challenges of the new year. May 2026 be a year of preparedness, positivity and prosperity for us all. 

Kevin Brown is the 2026 president of the National Association of REALTORS®.