Here’s the deal: the housing market is starting to settle into a healthier, more balanced state. It might not seem like it at first, but this change is actually a positive development.

This is really what you can expect. Our expectations have just been shaped differently because of the super competitive seller’s market we’ve seen over the last few years.

Just keep in mind, there’s still a lot of opportunity out there if you’re considering selling—whether that’s next month or even next year. The key is to stay informed about the market and have a strategy that fits the current conditions. Here’s the latest update for you.

1. Inventory’s Up. Buyer Power Is Coming Back.

The latest data shows that the number of homes for sale is climbing back to more typical levels.

How much inventory grows will really depend on the area you’re in.

If you're in a market where the number of homes for sale has returned to normal, buyers might actually have more influence than you'd think. That doesn't mean they control everything, but they do have more options, so your home needs to really catch their eye.

If you live in an area with limited inventory, you might find more buyers competing for your home.

Wherever you are, the important thing is to team up with a professional who knows the local market and can help you tailor your strategy accordingly.

2. The Right Price Matters More Than Ever

These days, buyers have plenty of options, so they tend to pass on homes that seem overpriced. That’s why setting the right price on your house is key to selling fast and getting the best offer. Realtor.com emphasizes this point strongly.

““ . . . a seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer.”
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— Realtor.com

If you don’t get it right, you might need to take a step back. Currently, nearly 1 in 5 sellers—about 19.1%—are lowering their asking prices to draw in buyers (see map below).

““The rising share of price reductions suggests that a lot of sellers are anchored to prices that aren’t realistic in today’s housing market. Today’s sellers would be wise to listen to feedback they are getting from the market.”
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— Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com

The smartest move? Talk to your local agent. They know the market inside and out and can help you find the right price that actually sells. If the price isn’t attractive, the home just won’t move.

3. Flexibility Wins Negotiations

These days, buyers aren’t rushing to waive inspections and appraisals just to close a deal. With more homes available, they have the freedom to request repairs, ask for credits, or get assistance with closing costs. In fact, data from Redfin reveals that nearly 44.4% of sellers are open to negotiating.

So, what’s the bottom line? This market isn’t bad — it’s just changed. It’s actually more like the housing market we saw in typical years, like 2019. The smartest sellers are the ones making the most of every chance to connect with buyers and showcase their homes in the best light.

Think of concessions as helpful tools rather than losses. They can close gaps, make deals more appealing, and help you seal the deal. Don’t worry too much—since prices have increased about 55% in the last five years, you’ve got plenty of flexibility to make a concession or two and still come out ahead.

Make sure to talk with your agent about which concessions might be the ones that help close the deal.

Bottom Line

Sellers who want to succeed in the coming weeks and months are the ones who recognize how the market is changing and adapt their approach with realistic expectations and a smart strategy.

Let’s chat about what’s currently happening in our local market and how we can use those successes to your advantage when you’re ready to buy or sell.