Is 2026 a Good Time to Buy a Home in Keizer & Salem, Oregon?

Is 2026 a Good Time to Buy a Home in Salem & Keizer, Oregon?

This is one of the most common questions I’m hearing right now—from first-time buyers, growing families, and even long-time renters here in Keizer and Salem.

I’m Hannah Fouts-Sparks with Sparks Property Group at SMI Real Estate, and I help buyers across Keizer, Salem, and nearby Marion and Polk County communities make thoughtful, long-term decisions about homeownership. If you’re wondering whether 2026 is “the right time,” the real answer depends less on headlines and more on how buying fits your life.

Let’s break it down honestly.

Is 2026 a good year to buy a home in the Salem–Keizer market?

For many people, yes—but not for the reason most expect.

The Salem–Keizer housing market has historically been driven by:

• Steady local employment

• A strong family-oriented community

• Limited land availability in Keizer in particular

That tends to support long-term stability rather than dramatic swings. While no one can predict the future, many buyers here aren’t trying to “time” the market. They’re focused on planting roots.

Should buyers wait for prices or rates to change?

This is where I see a lot of stress that isn’t always necessary.

Interest rates and prices move—but life keeps happening. Kids grow, commutes change, and rent increases rarely pause. For buyers who plan to stay in their home for several years, the question usually isn’t “Will the market dip?” but “Does this purchase support our long-term goals?”

That long-term mindset matters more than any single year.

Is renting or buying better in Keizer and Salem right now?

It depends on how long you plan to stay.

Renting can make sense short-term, but many renters in Keizer and Salem are surprised by:

• Rent increases year over year

• Limited inventory in family-friendly neighborhoods

• Lack of long-term stability

Buying a home can offer predictability and a stronger connection to the community—especially for buyers who want to be near schools, parks, and local traditions.

What do buyers not expect—but should—when buying in 2026?

A few things come up again and again:

• Buying feels emotional, even for practical people

• The “perfect” timing rarely feels obvious in the moment

• The right home often looks different than expected

I also see buyers underestimate how much community plays a role. Many want to be settled before annual traditions like the Gala of Trees in Salem, winter evenings driving through Keizer’s best Christmas light displays, or planning ahead for holiday events across Salem and Keizer and family favorites like where to see Santa in Keizer.

Those moments are part of why people choose to buy here—not just the numbers.

Does home appreciation matter for buyers in Salem and Keizer?

It matters—but it shouldn’t be the only reason you buy.

Historically, the Salem–Keizer area has seen steady appreciation over time, not dramatic spikes. That’s appealing to buyers who value consistency over speculation. Still, no appreciation is guaranteed, and I never advise buying only for future value.

Your home should support your life first.

Is personal readiness more important than market timing?

Almost always.

The best time to buy is usually when:

• Your finances feel manageable

• Your job and lifestyle feel stable

• You plan to stay put for a while

When those pieces line up, the year on the calendar matters far less.

Thinking about buying a home in Salem or Keizer in 2026?

You don’t need to decide today—but it helps to understand your options.

I’m Hannah Fouts-Sparks with Sparks Property Group at SMI Real Estate, and I help buyers across Keizer and Salem think through timing, finances, and lifestyle—not just market trends. If you’re considering buying, upgrading, or staying local, I’d love to help you talk it through.

Have a great day!