Is the Western Montana Real Estate Shifting to a Buyer’s Market in 2026?

By Jason Baker

Jason Baker is the leading listing agent in the entire regional mls for residential and or total units sold, 8 years running. He is a tireless worker, and surrounds himself with the best admin and sales team in Montana...and the results speak for themselves.

Is the Western Montana real estate market changing in 2026? If you’ve been wondering whether 2026 is a good year to buy or sell a home in Western Montana, you’re not alone. The market is shifting, and it looks very different from the fast-paced years many people remember. Inventory is rising, prices are under pressure, and buyers are gaining more control.

Let’s break down what’s really happening and why it matters.

Inventory is rising. As we move into 2026, there are more homes for sale across Western Montana than there were last year. Counties like Missoula and Ravalli are starting the year with higher inventory, giving buyers more choices. When more homes are available, buyers don’t feel rushed. This slows the market and forces sellers to compete more for attention.

Overpriced homes are struggling to sell. One of the biggest trends in the market right now is the number of homes failing to sell. In the past few months, hundreds of homes have come off the market because they didn’t receive offers. The main reason is pricing. Homes that are priced correctly are still selling, and some even receive multiple offers. Homes priced too high are sitting longer and often expire unsold.

Home prices are under pressure. Prices in Western Montana are no longer rising as quickly as they once did. Recent data shows that average sale prices are down compared to last year. This doesn’t mean every home is losing value, but it does mean sellers need to be realistic. Buyers are paying attention to sold homes, not asking prices, making accurate pricing more important than ever.

Buyers have more power than before. With more inventory and longer days on market, buyers are gaining leverage. They can take their time, compare homes, and negotiate more strongly. Many buyers are asking for seller concessions, credits, or better terms. In simple terms, buyers have more options and more control in 2026 than they’ve had in years.

Timing and strategy matter more than guessing. Waiting for the perfect time isn’t as important as being prepared. Sellers who price correctly and list at the right moment face less competition. Buyers who understand the market can find better value and stronger terms. The key is knowing the numbers and having a clear plan, rather than guessing based on old market conditions.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Western Montana in 2026, now is the time to get clear answers and a strategy that fits today’s market. Call or text 406-552-4443 or email jason@jasonbakerteam.com to get a personalized look at your home’s value or your buying options. Preparation matters more than timing, and the right guidance can help you make confident decisions in this changing market.