Predictions of a “real estate crash” similar to 2008 are not widely supported by current market fundamentals in Lane County or nationally. The conditions today are significantly different:
- Stricter Lending Standards: Lending practices are far more regulated than they were leading up to the 2008 crisis.
- Controlled Inventory: While inventory has increased in Lane County (up about 35% in May 2025 year-over-year), it still doesn’t represent an overwhelming glut of homes that would cause a collapse.
- Homeowner Equity: Many homeowners in Lane County have substantial equity built up, reducing the likelihood of widespread foreclosures.
Underlying Demand: Despite higher interest rates, there’s still a fundamental demand for housing, especially in desirable areas like Eugene-Springfield. Instead of a crash, experts generally predict a continued stabilization or a “soft landing” in the Lane County market, characterized by more moderate price appreciation or localized adjustments, rather than a sharp, widespread decline. The team at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Equinox continuously monitors these local trends to provide accurate, data-driven insights.