As we step into 2026, many prospective homebuyers in New York City — especially in Queens, NY — are asking: “Is now a smart time to buy, or should I wait?” The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. The 2025 – 2026 market reflects a mix of rising prices, shrinking inventory, and shifting affordability. But depending on what you’re looking for — a single-family home, condo, co-op, or investment property — there are compelling reasons to consider buying now. Here’s how the numbers and trends look, and what you should weigh if you’re thinking of making a move.

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📈The Numbers: Prices, Inventory, and What They Mean

Recent data shows that home prices in Queens continue to climb, especially for single-family homes and one- to three-family houses. In Q2 2025, the average price for these homes surpassed $1 million — a milestone that reflects strong demand.

At the same time, overall inventory is tight. Between Q2 2024 and Q2 2025, the number of available listings dropped significantly. In Q3 2025, listing inventory in Queens plummeted nearly 24% compared with the prior year — from 4,703 to 3,577. Naturally, fewer listings mean less supply, which in a demand-heavy market puts upward pressure on prices. That dynamic helps explain why median sale prices rose even while closed sales slightly decreased.

To put it plainly: there are fewer homes on the market — but the ones that are listed are going fast and often at premium prices. As of Q3 2025, homes that closed sold for the highest median sales price ever recorded in Queens, according to the report.

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🔍What That Means for Buyers in 2026

Given the above dynamics, here’s how you might judge whether 2026 is “a good time to buy” — depending on your situation:

✅ For buyers with some flexibility and a long-term outlook:

• If you’re looking for a long-term home — single-family or multi-family house — the continued price growth suggests that properties purchased now may appreciate over time, especially as price levels rise borough-wide.
• Given tight inventory, adding a property to the market could become more valuable as supply stays limited. Getting in now might hedge against future price jumps, especially if interest rates moderate or if demand grows.
• For people planning to live in the property or hold for several years (versus flipping), the premium price today could still make sense as a long-term investment.

⚠️ For buyers sensitive to price and affordability:

• The rising average home price — over $1 M for many single- and multi-family homes — means many properties may be out of reach unless buyers have strong financials (down payment, mortgage eligibility, etc.).
• Tight inventory means limited choices. If you’re picky (neighborhood, size, layout), competition will be tough.
• For buyers looking into condos or co-ops: although those segments saw some price increases in 2025, the demand dynamics differ, and condos in particular can behave differently from houses.

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🏘️ What Type of Buyer Should Consider Buying Now (And Who Might Wait)

Because “Queens real estate market” isn’t monolithic — it’s very segmented — your decision should depend on what you need. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Buyer Profile	Likelihood 2026 Buy Is a Good Idea
First-time homebuyers, with limited budget, open to smaller units (co-ops/condos) or modest houses	Mixed — condos/co-ops may offer some relative affordability, but price growth + tight inventory still pose challenges.
Families or couples seeking multi-bedroom houses (1–3 family or multi-family) for long-term living	Good chance — despite high prices, houses remain valuable long-term, and scarcity might fuel appreciation.
Investors (buy & hold, rentals, future resale)	Potentially strong — low inventory + steady demand = good odds for appreciation; rentals in Queens remain in demand given rents and residential demand.
Buyers needing flexibility in timing/price (e.g. waiting for price dips or interest rate drops)	Cautious — with inventory so low, waiting may mean fewer choices, and prices may continue rising or stay high.

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🔮What Could Shift in 2026 — And What to Watch

As helpful as 2025’s data is, the 2026 market depends on a few external variables. Based on broader market outlooks: mortgage rates may stabilize or modestly improve, which could ease affordability pressure for some buyers.

Also, some buyers may be waiting to see if inventory loosens — perhaps as interest rates affect demand, or as certain sellers decide to list homes. If inventory increases, buyers could have more leverage and more choices.

However — even in that case — demand for NYC suburbs and nearby boroughs like Queens remains strong, thanks to people looking for more space, better affordability (compared to Manhattan), and more family-friendly housing. All of that can keep upward pressure on prices.

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🧭 My Take: For Many, 2026 Is Still a Good Time to Buy in Queens — But Only With Eyes Open

If I were advising a buyer in 2026 (which, given your business, is likely your audience), I’d say: yes — now can still be a solid time to buy in Queens, especially if you have a long-term plan or can financially accommodate current price levels. The market conditions favor those willing to commit and act decisively.

That said — don’t go in blind. Given tight inventory and rising prices, it’s more important than ever to work with a knowledgeable broker, have your financing ready, and be clear about what you want (house vs condo, resale vs rental potential, neighborhood, etc.).

For buyers who need affordability, patience, or flexibility, waiting for increased inventory or slightly softened demand might make sense — but there’s always a trade-off (less selection, risk of price appreciation, possible competition when market picks up again).

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✅Bottom Line: A Nuanced Yes — But Timing, Preparedness & Strategy Matter

2026 doesn’t bring a clean “buyers’ market” or a “buyers’ bonanza.” What it brings is a tight, competitive, still-price-rising market — but one where smart, prepared buyers can still find value. For many types of buyers — especially those looking for long-term stability, space, or investment value — now is still a realistic and potentially advantageous time to buy in Queens.

About Ximena Ibarra

With 30+ years of experience in the New York City real estate market, Ximena Ibarra is a trusted seller’s agent who provides clients with expert insights and personalized service. From timing the market to pricing strategies and staging, Ximena has a proven track record of helping sellers maximize their property’s value. Whether you’re planning to list your home in fall or waiting for the right moment, Ximena can guide you through every step of the process.

Contact:
Ximena Ibarra
Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker
Phone: (646) 296-5016
Email: ximenaibarra@yahoo.com
Website: www.ximenaibarra.com

Let Ximena help you make the most of your NYC real estate journey!