Real Estate Roundup: February 12, 2026
Leonard Steinberg, Compass Agent
The real estate landscape in early 2026 is moving at a breakneck pace, blending old-school fundamentals with a high-tech future. Whether you are tracking the latest economic indicators or looking for ways to elevate your home's value, staying informed is the only way to stay ahead.
Market Realities: Pricing and Performance
The housing market is currently experiencing a significant recalibration. In 2025, approximately 62% of buyers purchased homes below the original listing price. This marks the highest proportion of under-list sales since 2019, with an average discount of about 8%—the largest seen since 2012.
While mortgage applications have recently seen a dip—with refinances down 5% and purchase applications dropping 14% due in part to bad weather—this often leads to a "buyer build-up" that balances out later.
Investing in the "Green" Premium
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a financial strategy. Energy-efficient homes are commanding a 2% to 8% price premium and selling up to 10 days faster than traditional properties.
The long-term value is even more striking when looking at specific upgrades. A University of Michigan study found that over a 40-year lifespan, a green roof can save approximately $200,000, with nearly 66% of those savings coming directly from reduced energy costs.
The Economy at a Glance
The Stock Market Milestone: The Dow Jones Industrial Average made history this week, closing above 50,000 for the first time.
Inflation Watch: While the Fed’s preferred measure (core PCE) was expected to be around 2.2%, some current nowcasts suggest annual inflation for 2025 may sit closer to 3%.
Crypto vs. Gold: Bitcoin has seen significant volatility, sitting about 43% down from its October 2025 highs, while gold has surged roughly 25% over the last four months.
The Evolution of the Industry
The way we conduct real estate is being transformed by technology and community.
AI Integration: New roles like "Prompt Engineers" and "AI Strategists" are emerging in the workforce. In real estate, tools like the AI Assistant are helping agents streamline daily tasks such as creating contacts and managing business trackers.
Expanding Horizons: Compass recently rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, signaling a new era for the profession.
Culture & Community: A new affinity group, ART@COMPASS, is launching on February 18th to explore the intersection of the art market and real estate.
A Note on the "Human Touch"
Despite the rise of algorithms and automation, the core of real estate remains deeply personal. Success in this industry—and in life—often comes down to the people. As we move into this new chapter of real estate history, the goal remains the same: elevating the consumer experience through a blend of high-tech tools and the indispensable human touch.
Final Thoughts
As we look toward the horizon of 2026, it is clear that the real estate market is defined by its ability to adapt. While some may get caught up in the "speculation" of quick wins, history shows that a home is best viewed as a long-term investment in life. Whether it’s acting as a hedge against inflation or providing a place for "enjoyment per square foot," the fundamental value of property remains steadfast.
We are entering a new era where technology empowers us, but it is the dedication—the "pinnacle of perfection" seen in the discipline of world-class performers—that truly drives results. In a world of shifting data and emerging AI, the human element of ethical, practical, and purposeful leadership is what will continue to elevate the consumer experience. The best is yet to come, and by focusing on high-quality fundamentals today, we build a more stable and rewarding tomorrow.
Have questions about the market? Let's connect and explore the best strategies for your real estate goals.
Compass does not recommend one particular strategy or guarantee of results.*
Featuring
Leonard Steinberg
Compass Agent
