Spring 2026: A season of stability and opportunity in the Lakes Region

As the ice finally recedes from our pristine shores and the first hints of spring air reach the Lakes Region, we find ourselves looking at a real estate landscape that is both familiar and evolving. I’ve often said that our corner of the world is a unique micro-market, and the data from the first quarter of 2026 reinforces exactly why New Hampshire, and specifically our beautiful lakes and mountains, remains such a resilient draw.

We’ve seen a "mixed bag" for buyers and sellers alike as we kicked off the year, but the overarching theme is one of stabilization. While the frenetic pace of the last few years has leveled off, the underlying demand for the Lakes Region lifestyle has never been stronger.

Quarter 1 at a glance

According to the latest data from the New Hampshire Association of REALTORS, the first quarter showed us that while the market isn’t "booming" in the traditional sense, it is incredibly firm.

• Steady prices: The median sales price for single-family homes in New Hampshire hit $540,000 in January and held steady near $525,000 in February, an all-time high for that month. In fact, February marked the 73rd consecutive month of year-over-year price increases in our state.
• Inventory shifts: We are seeing more homes on the market than in recent years — a welcome relief for buyers. Statewide, inventory is up significantly compared to last year, yet we still sit at roughly 1.6 to 2 months of supply. To put that in perspective, a balanced market usually requires 5 to 7 months of inventory. We aren't there yet, but the needle is moving.
• The sales mix: Single-family sales saw a modest downtick (under 1%), while the condominium market continues to be a powerhouse, with sales increasing by over 15%. Buyers are clearly seeking value and "lock-and-leave" convenience, as reflected in the high demand for lakefront and water-access condos in towns like Meredith and Laconia. Laconia is the one town in the Lakes Region that is really pushing the pedal for higher-density condo development. The question is, will the pace be too fast for typical absorption?

Regional resilience

What’s fascinating this year is the regional variance. While some southern counties have seen a slight cooling, the Lakes Region and North Country, specifically Belknap, Carroll, and Grafton counties, continue to see price increases exceeding 6%. People aren't just looking for houses; they are looking for a sanctuary.

Whether it’s a sprawling estate on Governor’s Island or a charming seasonal cottage on Lake Winnisquam, the "quality of life" factor continues to trump national economic headwinds. We’ve also noticed a slight shift in seller behavior; some sellers are coming to the market with realistic pricing from day one, rather than listing at "aspirational" levels and waiting for a correction. We still need some more help in this department to keep the pricing at realistic levels.

Looking ahead

As we move into the peak selling season, the outlook is cautiously optimistic. Mortgage rates showed signs of softening during the first quarter, dipping below the 6% mark for the first time since September 2022. However, with the escalation in the bond market and the oil market surge, the 30-year fixed rate pumped back up to 6.43%, which is not great timing for the spring market.

For sellers, the limited inventory means your property still commands a premium, if it is priced right and provided it is marketed with the global reach and local expertise it deserves. For buyers, the increase in new listings offers a few more choices than they’ve had in a long time.

The Lakes Region isn't just a place on a map; it’s a legacy. As we look at the remainder of 2026, I expect the "winds of the market" to remain steady, guiding us toward a healthy, active summer season. The headwinds that we have to monitor will be the resolution of the Middle East conflict, oil prices, the bond and stock market.

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This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is the president of Roche Realty Group, located in Meredith, and can be reached at 603-279-7046. Visit rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.