Global Scans · Homes · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: The number of smart homes is expected to grow further and by 2020 it is expected 46.2 million homes in the US and 44.9 million in Europe will be classed as smart homes. By 2022 there could be nearly 500 smart devices that can be connected to a smart home.

• [New] The Bank of Korea is set to hold rates at 2.5% this week and through 2026 as FX and housing risks outweigh easing pressures. SaveGame
• [New] Major tech companies, including OpenAI, Amazon, Google, Meta and Microsoft, are expected to join Trump next week at the White House to sign a ratepayer protection pledge committing to build or buy their own electricity to power AI data centers. Just Security
• [New] By 2026, the combination of enhanced physical capabilities and social AI will enable more natural and less intimidating interactions, paving the way for broader adoption in homes and healthcare facilities. Robot Magazine
• [New] By 2040, Renewable Energy Sources are projected to generate about 84% of global electricity, supply about 65% of household heating, and provide about 38% of industrial heating. Bayelsa Watch
• [New] Home sales activity is projected to rise a lot in 2026. Frisbeerealestate.com
• [New] Buyers benefit from improved affordability as home sales are projected to increase by 14% nationwide in 2026. Frisbeerealestate.com
• [New] Realtor.com's 2026 housing forecast predicts an 8.9% year-over-year increase in existing home inventory for 2026. Yahoo Finance
• [New] The net increase in the overall value of mortgage lending will slow to 2.5% in 2026, compared with a 3% rise in 2025, as limited improvements in affordability and borrowing costs quell housing demand. The Independent
• [New] Growth in UK mortgage lending is forecast to dip in 2026 to 2.5% from 3% in 2025, as limited improvements in affordability and borrowing costs subdue housing demand. EY
• [New] The President's remaining new tariffs under Section 232 will increase taxes per US household by $400 in 2026. Tax Foundation
• [New] As we approach 2026, energy efficiency will become a focal point in smart home technology. What Are the Best Smart Home Devices of 2026?
• [New] The average U.S. household is projected to lose approximately $1,300 in 2026 due to tariff-induced price hikes. The Chronicle-Journal
• [New] Single-family starts are expected to increase 1.0% in 2026 to 940,000 units and move 5% higher in 2027 to a 984,000 pace. GrowthSpotter
• [New] Existing home inventory increased 15.2% in 2025 and will rise an additional 8.9% in 2026. GrowthSpotter
• [New] Housing markets are going to keep rising through 2026, just as they did last year when interest rates were at similar levels. Property Update
• [New] For Toronto, meeting 2032 housing goals requires limiting emissions to 4-19 tons CO2 equivalent per housing unit; a range only compact, multi-unit buildings with timber structural systems can currently achieve. Forbes
• [New] Los Angeles is betting that its next housing boom will not rise from the ground up - but from the inside out. New York Post
• [New] We expect demand for housing to remain high for the foreseeable future as zoning restrictions restrict supply, creating demand for repair and refurbishment of America's ageing housing stock. Quality Magazine
• [New] Boosting housing production and achieving more affordable housing will remain a priority in 2026. JD Supra
• [New] Consumer confidence, mortgage rate trends and shifts in federal policy could play a key role in shaping housing demand and pricing in 2026. Florida Realtors
• [New] Dubai's population could approach 4 million within the next few years, sustaining long-term housing requirements. Khaleej Times
• [New] Affordable-housing investment in advanced markets is forecast to rise 17-20% in 2026, supported by expanded tax-credit allocations and public-private programs. MEXC

Last updated: 28 February 2026