Data remains a crucial factor in the real estate industry, especially for those looking to expand in 2026. According to Dan Duffy, the founder and CEO of United Real Estate Group, leaders who prioritize data have a significant advantage.
Duffy will be starting off the Housing Economic Summit on Feb. 10, providing guidance on how leaders can interpret and utilize the data presented during the event.
We have been sharing insights from our speakers before the summit, but simply reading forecasts is not enough; the key lies in applying them effectively to stay adaptable. Below, Duffy elaborates on his approach for the new year and how data can elevate leadership to the next level.
HousingWire: What will shape the 2026 housing market for real estate leaders?
Dan Duffy: There will be a divide…
Group one: Leaders who doubled down during the downturn, managed capital wisely, prioritized data quality, integrated AI across their operations, and navigated past the temporary setbacks, will be well-positioned to seize opportunities in an improving market and gain significant market share.
Group two: Leaders who focused on survival by cutting costs and are now rebuilding their foundations will likely miss out on the initial growth phases of the market recovery.
HW: Why should leaders rely more on data for decision-making and how can it drive impact?
DD: Adopting a data-centric approach and investing in various data sources and management capabilities are crucial for leveraging AI and data-driven strategies to enhance growth and operational efficiency. The competitive landscape now favors companies with a “data-first” mindset.
HW: What excites you about the upcoming housing market?
DD: The projected sale of over 4 million existing homes in 2026 presents a significant opportunity for growth. With a market share of just over 1%, United is well-positioned to capitalize on market conditions and drive expansion. Anticipated improvements in transaction volume, seller flexibility on pricing, favorable interest rate trends, and other macroeconomic factors indicate a positive outlook for 2026.
Don’t just rely on data; learn to leverage it for informed decision-making. Discover valuable insights at the Housing Economic Summit. Join us in Dallas on Feb. 10.
Related