Answers by Lorrie Maiorano

Probably not in most markets. “Shadow inventory” sounds scary, but right now the bigger story is that inventory is rising gradually, not flooding the market. National data shows existing-home sales edged up in February 2026, while major forecasts call for flat to modest price growth this year, not a broad crash. NAR says prices are “in no danger of any major decline,” and other Real Estate sources says a crash pattern is not what the market is showing. That means some overheated or overbuilt areas may soften, but most homeowners are more likely to see slower appreciation, more competition, and longer days on market rather than a sudden value drop. Your home’s value this spring will depend more on local supply, pricing strategy, condition, and buyer demand than on a national “shadow inventory” headline.