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2026 is the Year: Why You Shouldn’t Wait on Moving to a Retirement Community

Choosing to move to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) and proactively planning for your future offers lasting security and peace of mind. Still, for many people, the idea of selling their home—and weighing whether the housing market is right—can feel like a major obstacle.

While waiting may seem like the safest option, putting off the decision can create unexpected challenges down the road. In fact, timing your move to a senior living community can have a significant impact on your options and overall experience.

So why is 2026 the right time to take that step? Read on to find out.

National Housing Market in 2026

As we head into 2026, market conditions are shifting in ways that could make this transition more advantageous. Zillow economists predict the housing market will warm up in 2026, with experts forecasting modest increases in home prices — typically around 1–2% nationally next year — reflecting slower appreciation than in previous years but greater stability overall.

Mortgage rates, meanwhile, are expected to ease modestly compared with the highs of 2024–2025. According to Realtor.com, most industry projections show average 30-year fixed rates holding around the low-to-mid 6% range in 2026, offering some improvement in affordability for both buyers and sellers.

While waiting might seem like the safest choice, delaying your move could mean facing different market conditions later — potentially with less flexibility and fewer housing options. In reality, understanding the current market — and the opportunities emerging in 2026 — could make all the difference.

The 2026 housing market presents a timely opportunity for homeowners considering a move to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). While the number of homes for sale is expected to rise again in 2026, total inventory will remain below pre-2020 levels, keeping demand strong and the market balanced.

With an average of 4.6 months of housing supply, the market is projected to stay well short of a true buyer’s market, allowing sellers to price competitively without the pressure of steep discounts. Even as buyers gain slightly more negotiating power, well-maintained homes in desirable locations continue to sell.

For those planning to move to a senior living or retirement community, this balance is especially favorable. Many CCRC residents can sell without needing to purchase another home, avoiding high interest rates while gaining flexibility in timing and pricing. In short, 2026 offers a smart window to sell with confidence and plan ahead for long-term security and peace of mind.

No more worries about finances.

Moving to a continuing care retirement community puts you in control of your future. With predictable pricing and thoughtfully designed amenities that simplify daily life, you gain comfort, convenience, and the reassurance of a long-term health care plan that supports your well-being.

At Acts Retirement-Life Communities, every continuing care retirement community offers Acts Life Care®, a comprehensive contract that safeguards both your health care needs and your financial future, regardless of economic or global conditions. This plan allows access to a full continuum of care—including assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation—should your needs ever change.

Acts Life Care is more than a plan for the unexpected; it’s peace of mind. With future health care costs already accounted for and stable monthly fees, you’re protected from rising health care expenses and market volatility—allowing you to focus on enjoying life today and feeling secure about tomorrow.

Staying Active and Engaged in a Vibrant Community

As we age, maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle is important, and there's no better way to do that than by having a plethora of activities available at your fingertips to engage your body, mind, and spirit. Many of us find that isolation increases as we get older, which can lead to depression and other health concerns. Moving to a senior living community means staying social and fostering meaningful companionship.

Residents also have easy access to a wellness suite with a full-time Nurse Practitioner who is available to address common health concerns and provide regular check-ups, helping you stay ahead of your health needs.

Check out the amazing health benefits of a social lifestyle in retirement.

Peace of Mind with Acts Retirement

We've highlighted that every Acts community is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), but what does that truly mean? Simply put, a CCRC allows you to move in as a healthy and independent adult, choosing from apartment homes, villas, or cottages, depending on your preference. You make a one-time entrance fee payment that secures the benefits of Acts Life Care, along with a predictable monthly fee that covers essential services like maintenance, utilities, chef-prepared meals, and a range of other amenities.

Should your care needs evolve, the Acts Life Care contract ensures your monthly fee won’t change because of it. Your fee stays consistent regardless of the level of care you need.

The Acts Life Care contract isn’t just a benefit—it’s a promise that gives you peace of mind. Knowing that your future health care needs are already paid for, at today’s prices, allows you to rest easy and focus on enjoying life without worrying about unexpected costs.

No such thing as a "free" home! Learn about the hidden costs of home ownership.

As we age, managing the day-to-day upkeep of our homes can become a real burden—one that may be too much to handle. In an Acts continuing care retirement community, you can say goodbye to the stress of home maintenance: no more costly repairs, lawn care, snow removal, hurricane preparations, or fixing broken appliances.

Security with Acts Retirement

When it comes to senior living, the options can be overwhelming. So, why choose continuing care retirement living with Acts Retirement-Life Communities? One word: Security.

With over 50 years of leadership in the senior living industry, Acts is one of the most trusted and experienced organizations in the field. As a not-for-profit entity, our focus is on improving the lives of our residents, not generating profits for shareholders. Additionally, our Acts Life Care plan ensures that residents’ savings are protected for life. All these factors, along with the other benefits we’ll highlight below, contribute to Acts maintaining a 98% satisfaction rating among current residents.

Acts communities also benefit from the strength of its network. With 28 continuing care retirement campuses in nine states, Acts provides a range of options for residents to experience our unparalleled lifestyle. Our on-site healthcare centers consistently rank among the nation’s top facilities according to state and federal agencies.

When it comes to retirement living, Acts Retirement offers unmatched strength, security, and peace of mind.

To learn more, you can request a private consultation at any of our communities by clicking here.