The Trend Report 2026

The Trend Report curates insights from our exclusive Coldwell Banker Global Luxury/Censuswide survey, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, Wealth-X, and outside experts to spotlight the major trends guiding the luxury real estate market now and in the future.

Here are the top insights shaping the industry in 2026:

• The $2.4 Trillion Wealth Transfer – The U.S. is at the center of a historic real estate hand-off, with nearly $2.4 trillion in property expected to change hands over the next decade, led by Gen X and Millennials.
• "Nest Investing" Takes Priority – Affluent buyers are prioritizing the home as a stable wealth preservation tool, with home-related spending now outpacing luxury goods.
• Return to "Living Large" – Demand is shifting toward larger properties, with 5+ bedroom homes driving over 60% of luxury single-family inquiries.
• New Global Wealth Havens – Emerging hubs like Atlanta, Nashville, Austin, and Dubai have achieved the same "resiliency" status as traditional markets like New York and London.
• Lifestyle-Driven Must-Haves – Buyers prioritize multi-dimensional homes with wellness design, multigenerational layouts, climate resilience, sustainability, and smart technology.