Why Fix-and-Flip Could Break Out

James explains HousingWire's view that fix-and-flip returns may surge in 2026 due to normalized costs and inventory.

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Big investors could be banned from buying single-family homes, mortgage rates drop to the lowest level in years, and one forgotten sector of real estate is predicted to “break out” in 2026. We’re only two weeks into the new year, but the housing market is shifting by the minute.

Mortgage rates fell into the 5% range last week as President Trump announced a plan to buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds. But this time, there’s no money printing involved. The question is…how long will these low rates last? Is this a temporary Band-Aid or a crucial move to get us closer to 5% mortgage rates?

But it’s getting even better for first-time homebuyers and small investors. Institutional investors could be banned from buying single-family homes, not only providing inventory relief but also preventing unfair competition in the market. This could be huge in a select few cities across the US, especially as HousingWire predicts one specific single-family investing strategy could see profits surge in 2026.