If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market recently, you know that sellers have had the upper hand for quite some time. With challenging prices, fierce bidding wars, and limited inventory, the market has been heavily tilted in favor of sellers.
However, there are signs that this could be changing.
So, is the housing market actually moving toward a more balanced state? Here's what we're seeing.
What Is a Balanced Market?
A balanced market is one where there’s a five-to-seven-month supply of homes available for sale. In such a market, neither buyers nor sellers have a clear advantage.
This balance leads to more stable prices and gives buyers more choices, making the process less stressful and predictable. Over the past few years, we’ve been far from a balanced market, with sellers calling the shots. However, recent trends suggest that this dynamic might be shifting.
Inventory Trends: Are We Getting Closer to Balance?
At the start of the year, the national housing market had about a three-month supply of homes, indicating a strong seller’s market. However, as the year progressed, inventory increased to approximately four months.
While this is still below the level needed for a truly balanced market, it’s a step in the right direction.
Importantly, this increase in inventory isn’t leading to an oversupply that would cause prices to plummet. Instead, it suggests that the market is gradually becoming less frenzied and more favorable for buyers.
What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?
For buyers, the rising inventory means you might have more options and face less competition. Homes are staying on the market a bit longer, giving you more leverage to negotiate and more time to consider your options.
This is a significant shift from the fast-paced market of recent years, where buyers often had to waive inspections and appraisals to stay competitive. Now, with more negotiation power, buyers can confidently approach the process.
Sellers, on the other hand, may need to adjust their strategies. While it’s still a seller’s market, it’s not as aggressive as it once was. Pricing your home correctly and being open to negotiations will be crucial to attracting serious buyers and closing the deal.
Lean on Local Expertise
Real estate conditions can vary significantly from one area to another, so it’s important to get insights specific to your local market. This is where the expertise of both a local real estate agent and a mortgage professional becomes invaluable.
A real estate agent can provide you with the latest data on housing inventory, pricing trends, and buyer behavior in your area.
Meanwhile, a mortgage professional can help you navigate the financial side, ensuring you get the best possible mortgage terms based on current market conditions. Together, we can guide you through the complexities of buying or selling a home in a shifting market.
Final Thoughts
The housing market is gradually moving toward a more balanced state, but it’s not there yet. As a buyer, you might find more opportunities and less pressure than before. As a seller, being realistic and prepared to negotiate will help you succeed in this evolving market.
Whether buying or selling, work closely with a knowledgeable real estate agent and a trusted mortgage professional to take advantage of these changing conditions.