We Surveyed Over 600 BiggerPockets Members—Here’s What They Said About Investing in 2026
Summary
According to a BiggerPockets survey, retail real estate investors are optimistic about 2026, citing lower mortgage rates and better inventory. However, challenges like rising expenses and lack of capital remain. While STR enthusiasm has waned, new investors still show some interest. Hosts should be aware of shifting market sentiment and consider long-term strategies for portfolio growth.
Key Insights
- •More than 50% of investors believe long-term rentals are the best option going forward, while 1 in 5 investors believe owner-occupied tactics like house hacking and live-in-flips will work best.
- •Investor sentiment increased modestly in 2025, with the Pulse Index measuring 108 (100 is neutral, and anything over 100 is positive).
- •Investor enthusiasm for tactics that have shown success in recent years, such as short-term rentals (STRs) and mid-term rentals (MTRs), has waned significantly, though newer investors still show some interest—likely due to their increased cash flow potential.
- •The vast majority of retail real estate investors are planning for an active year in 2026, prioritizing growth and optimization.
Action Items
- ✓Consider long-term rental strategies as opposed to short-term rentals.Effort: lowImpact: medium
- ✓For experienced hosts, focus on optimizing your portfolio to account for rising expenses.Effort: lowImpact: medium
Watch Out For
- ⚠Relying solely on short-term rental strategies might not be the most effective approach in the coming year, given the waning interest of investors.
Related News
Rental Investors Become the Most Bullish in Years
Real estate investors are optimistic about 2026, citing improved affordability, better inventory, and negotiation opportunities. The BiggerPockets community favors long-term rentals as the best investment strategy, while mid-term and short-term rentals are losing popularity. Hosts should be conservative with expense underwriting to navigate market challenges, especially rising expenses.
Why Someone Earning $50K/Year Can Be Richer Than Someone Earning $200K/Year Through the Power of Saving
This article discusses financial independence and how making smart financial choices, like saving more and avoiding unnecessary expenses, can lead to greater wealth. For hosts, this means that managing finances wisely, and not overspending, can help you achieve financial goals, and allows for greater investment in your STR business.
Foreclosure Notice of Sales Jump 27.9% Year Over Year: What the Notice of Sale Surge Means For Real Estate Investors
Foreclosure Notices of Sale (NOS) are up significantly YoY in several key markets, signaling potential opportunities for real estate investors. Hosts can anticipate increased REO inventory in 60-120 days. Use NOS data to research markets, prepare for future REOs, and possibly take advantage of favorable non-recourse loan terms within self-directed retirement accounts.
The 2026 State of Real Estate Investing: An “Easier” Road Ahead
This BiggerPockets article discusses the state of real estate investing in 2026, suggesting that deal flow and cash flow are improving, making it a potentially easier time for investors. Hosts should be aware of these market trends and consider adapting their strategies to take advantage of the changing landscape.