Category Archives: For Buyers

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Is January the Best Time To Buy a Home?

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Is January the Best Time To Buy a Home? Simplifying The Market

You may not want to put your homebuying plans into hibernation mode this winter. While a lot of people assume spring is the ideal time to buy a house, new data shows January may actually be the best time of year for budget-conscious buyers. 

Kind of surprising, right? Here’s why January deserves a serious look.

1. Prices Tend To Be Lower This Time of Year

Lending Tree says January is the least expensive month to buy a home. And there’s something to that. January has historically offered one of the lowest price-per-square-foot points of the entire year. But the spring? That’s when demand (and prices) usually peak. And that’s not speculation – it’s a well-known trend based on years of market data.

a graph of a number of blue barsSo, how much less are we talking? Here’s a look at the numbers. According to the last full year of data, for the typical 1,500 square foot house, buyers who closed on their home in January paid around $23,000 less compared to those who bought in May. And that general trend typically holds true each year (see chart below):

a blue and white table with white textNow, your number is going to depend on the price, size, and type of the home you’re buying. But the trend is clear. For today’s buyers, it’s meaningful savings, especially when affordability is still tight for so many households.

2. Fewer Buyers and More Motivated Sellers 

And why do buyers typically save in the winter? It’s simple. Winter is one of the slowest times in the housing market each year. Both buyers and sellers tend to pull back, thinking it’s better to wait until spring. And that means:

  • You face less competition
  • You’re less likely to get into a multiple offer scenario
  • Sellers are more willing to negotiate (since there aren’t as many buyers)

With fewer buyers in the market, you can take your time browsing.

But winter doesn’t just thin out the pool of buyers, it also reveals which sellers truly need to sell. Because fewer people are house hunting during the colder months, sellers who really need to move tend to be more open to negotiating. As Realtor.com explains:

“Less competition means fewer bidding wars and more power to negotiate the extras that add up: closing cost credits, home warranties, even repair concessions. . . these concessions can end up knocking thousands of dollars off the price of a home.”

This can include everything from price cuts to covering closing costs, adjusting timelines, and more. It doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get discounts on every home. But it does mean you’re more likely to be taken seriously and given room to negotiate.

Should You Wait for Spring?

Here’s the real takeaway. When you remove the pressure and frenzy that comes with the busy spring season, it becomes much easier to get the home you want at a price that fits your budget.

But if you wait until spring, more buyers will be in the market. So, waiting could actually mean you spend more and you’d have to deal with more stress.

Now, only you can decide the right timing for your life, but don’t assume you should wait for warmer weather before you move.

Buying in January gives you: less competition, potentially lower prices, and more motivated sellers. And those are three perks you’re not going to see if you wait until spring.

Bottom Line

If you’ve been thinking about taking the next step, this season might give you more opportunity than you think.

Curious what buying in January could look like for you? Talk to a local agent who can help you take a closer look at your numbers and the homes that are available in your area.

How To Stretch Your Options, Not Your Budget

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How To Stretch Your Options, Not Your Budget Simplifying The Market

One of the biggest homebuying advantages you can give yourself today is surprisingly simple: a flexible wish list.

Think of it like this. Your wish list and your budget are the guardrails of your search. And when your budget needs to hold firm, there’s another lever you can pull. That’s seeing if you truly need all of your desired features. Because the truth is, a small compromise could be the difference between feeling stuck and getting the keys to your next home.

The data shows more buyers are using that strategy to offset affordability hurdles in today’s market. A recent study from Cotality found most buyers (70%) ended up compromising on one or more items from their original wish list. But before they started searching, only 33% expected to compromise at all:

a blue and grey pie chartWhat changed? They realized something during the search. The things you can’t change matter far more than the things you can update later.

You can:

  • Install hardwood floors
  • Put in those marble countertops
  • Upgrade the bathrooms down the line.

You can’t as easily:

  • Add land
  • Tack on more bedrooms or bathrooms
  • Move the house closer to people you care about

In the end, things like the location, layout, and overall bones matter far more than the cosmetic features you can change later. And that realization is power.

A Simple Step That’ll Open More Doors

So, if you’re hitting a wall in your search or you’re browsing online and just not seeing “it,” here’s an easy exercise that can reset the whole experience. Write down everything you want in a home, then sort it into three buckets:

  • Must-Haves: Your non-negotiables. The things that make daily life workable: the number of bedrooms, the length of your commute, accessibility, safety, or being close to your family or support system.
  • Nice-to-Haves: Features you’d absolutely enjoy but aren’t truly essential. Some examples: a fenced-in backyard, dual closets in the owner’s suite, or a stamped patio.
  • Dream Features: The extras that would truly be over the top. They’re the things you think about when you say “one day, I want to have…” It’s great if you get them, but totally fine if you don’t (for now).

Once you divide your list, you’ll notice something. Your wish list can either limit your options or open them up.

Sometimes you’re treating “nice-to-haves” like “must-haves.” Loosen that up even a little, and suddenly more homes come into range – including homes you may have scrolled past that could actually work for your lifestyle.

Small Flexibility, Big Payoff

Your next home doesn’t need to check every box. It just needs to check the right ones.

Maybe that means considering a house that needs light cosmetic updates. Maybe it means choosing a slightly smaller yard for a better location.

These aren’t sacrifices. They’re worthwhile trade-offs that get you into a home. Just remember, anything cosmetic can be upgraded over time. But getting the right bones, the right layout, the right location? That’s what sets you up for the long run.

An Agent Helps You See the Possibilities

If you’re not sure what to hold firm on and where you can flex, that’s where a trusted agent can be a game changer. They’ll help you spot the opportunities, walk you through what features you truly shouldn’t budge on, and determine which ones you can add later – when the time is right.

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to find a home that fits both your budget and your life, talk to an agent and look at your wish list together. With a local expert on your side, it’s easier to see where a little flexibility can open up a lot more opportunity.

This May Be the Best Time To Buy a Brand-New Home

Affordability, Buying Tips, For Buyers, New Construction, Real Estate, , , , ,

This May Be the Best Time To Buy a Brand-New Home Simplifying The Market

New home construction today is giving buyers something it feels like they haven’t gotten much lately: a real shot at both the home they want and the deal they need. More brand-new options are on the market right now, and builders are rolling out incentives that make these homes more affordable than many people expect.

It’s a combination that doesn’t come around often – and it’s putting buyers in a surprisingly strong position this season. Here’s why this moment matters and why it’s worth partnering with your own local agent to take advantage of it.

1. More New Homes Are Available Now – and That May Not Last

There’s more new construction on the market today than normal. And for buyers, that means:

  • More cutting-edge communities
  • More move-in-ready homes
  • More floor plans to pick from
  • More upgraded designs and modern features

But that variety may not last.

Data from Zonda shows that even though it feels like new homes are popping up just about everywhere, builders have actually started pulling back. The number of starts (that’s when builders break ground) has been slowly but steadily declining over the past few years. And that’s good because it prevents overbuilding nationally.

But here’s the real insight that can give you an edge. Forecasts show that slight downward trend should continue next year (see graph below):

a graph of progress with numbers and textIt’s a signal that the new inventory we have now may be your widest pool of all-new options for a while.

Today, Redfin says roughly 1 in 3 homes (27%) on the market are new builds. That’s higher than the norm, but the lowest share in four years. And it makes sense based on the graph above.

That means if you want more options to choose from, now’s the time to look.

And if you’re wondering: why the pullback? It’s simple. Since there are already more new homes for sale than usual, builders want to focus on selling down the supply they already have on the market rather than adding more new homes. And that leads to point two.

2. Builder Incentives Just Hit an All-Time High

Here’s where things get even better for buyers. To make sure the inventory they have now keeps moving, builders are offering incentives at levels not seen in years – and many of those perks directly help buyers with affordability. Buyers today are getting:

  • Lower Prices: Builders are dropping the prices on their brand-new homes to draw in buyers.
  • Help with Closing Costs: Some builders are covering thousands of dollars in fees to reduce the upfront cost of buying.
  • Extra Upgrades: Think premium finishes, appliance packages, and designer features, all added at no extra cost.
  • Mortgage Rate Buydowns: This is when the builder pays to get you a lower mortgage rate, which reduces your monthly payments and helps with affordability.

But you don’t have to be lucky to see these types of perks. The truth is, the vast majority of builders are offering advantages like these right now. According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) 65% of builders say they’re using some type of sales incentive and:

“. . . 41% of builders reported cutting prices in November, a record high in the post-Covid period and the first time this measure has passed 40%.”

a graph of a number of blue barsThat’s a big deal. It shows how willing builders are to negotiate right now.

And if you look closely at the graph, you’ll notice the use of incentives typically falls in the early part of the year, as buyer demand rises going into the spring. So, you have an edge if you act now. This may be your ideal window to find the most options and better prices.

If you lean on your own agent and you’re savvy about what you ask for, you could walk away with some of the best perks buyers have seen in years. And when every dollar counts and any incentive helps your bottom line, that’s worth looking into. 

More options and more savings = an offer too good to pass up.

Bottom Line

With most builders offering generous incentives and a wider selection of new homes for sale, buyers may be looking at one of the best times in years to buy a new build.

Connect with a local agent if you want to know which communities, builders, and incentives offer the most value today. Having your own agent (not the builder’s representative) makes the sale and negotiation process that much easier for you.

If you could have a brand-new home for less than you may expect, would you be interested?

The 3 Housing Market Questions Coming Up at Every Gathering This Season

Affordability, For Buyers, For Sellers, Inventory, Real Estate, , , , ,

The 3 Housing Market Questions Coming Up at Every Gathering This Season Simplifying The Market

Whether it’s at a family gathering, your company party, or catching up with friends over the holidays, the housing market always finds its way into the conversation.

Here are the top three questions on a lot of people’s minds this season, and straightforward answers to help you feel more confident about the market.

1. “Will I even be able to find a home if I want to move?”

Yes, more than you could a year or two ago.

The number of homes for sale has been rising over the past few years. According to data from Realtor.com, there have been more than one million homes on the market for six straight months, something that hasn’t happened since 2019 (see graph below):

a graph of a number of homesThat means two things:

  • Buyers have more options.
  • Sellers have more places they can move to next.

Many homeowners who held off are realizing the shelves aren’t bare anymore. So, if you hit pause on your home search last year because nothing fit your needs, it may be worth another look. With more homes on the market now, you’re not competing for the same handful of listings like you were a couple of years ago.

And because there’s a bit more to choose from, homes aren’t disappearing the minute they hit the market. That gives buyers more space to breathe, more options to compare, and a little more time to make a confident decision.

2. “Will I ever be able to afford a house?”

Affordability is starting to improve. Finally.

It’s been a tough few years for buyers. But this year brought some much-needed good news:

  • Mortgage rates have been easing.
  • Home price growth has been moderating.

That adds up to a monthly mortgage payment that’s hundreds of dollars lower than it would have been just a few months ago (see graph below):

a graph of blue rectangular barsBuying still isn’t easy, but the numbers are starting to improve. For a lot of people, that means buying a home is becoming a more realistic goal again.

3. “Should I wait for prices to come down?”

A lot of people worry that the housing market is about to crash, but the data doesn’t point in that direction. Yes, the number of homes for sale has been rising, but it’s still nowhere near the level needed for prices to fall significantly on a national scale. On top of that, homeowners today have a lot of equity and are in a much stronger financial position than they were back in 2008.

Of course, every local market is a little different. Some areas are still seeing prices climb, while others that saw huge spikes a few years ago are leveling off or seeing small corrections. But overall, the national picture is clear: experts surveyed by Fannie Mae project home prices will keep rising, just at a slower, more normal pace (see graph below):

a graph of green rectanglesThat’s why waiting for a major price drop to get a deal isn’t a very strategic plan. History shows the same thing over and over: people who spend time in the market tend to build the most long-term wealth, not the people who try to time the market perfectly.

Bottom Line

Talk about the housing market can feel loud and confusing, especially when you’re hearing so many different takes. A trusted local agent can help you make sense of the data and understand your options. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, reach out to a local professional.

How To Find the Best Deal Possible on a Home Right Now

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How To Find the Best Deal Possible on a Home Right Now Simplifying The Market

Want to know how to find the best deal possible in today’s housing market? Here’s the secret. Focus on homes that have been sitting on the market for a while.

Because when a listing lingers, sellers tend to get more realistic – and, more willing to negotiate. And that’s where the savviest buyers are finding homes other buyers overlook.

The Opportunity: 1 in 5 Homes Has Had a Price Cut This Year

According to Realtor.com, about 1 in every 5 listings (20.2%) have dropped their asking price at least once. And while so many things in today’s housing market vary by region, that number is consistent throughout the country. That tells you one thing…

No matter where you live, there’s a chance to score a better deal. You just need to know where to look. And that’s where your agent comes in.

The Tactic: Target Homes That Have Been Sitting the Longest

Your agent can help you identify which homes have been on the market the longest. Those are the ones where you’re more likely to get a discount. That’s because the seller may be getting frustrated their house hasn’t sold yet, so they’re more willing to play ball.

And since a lot of buyers steer clear of homes that aren’t selling, you may be the only offer they get. So, you can lean in and push for a better deal. As Realtor.com explains:

“Less competition means fewer bidding wars and more power to negotiate the extras that add up: closing cost credits, home warranties, even repair concessions . . . these concessions can end up knocking thousands of dollars off the price of a home.”

And they’re not the only ones calling out the opportunity you have right now. Bankrate also says:

“During the quieter fall and winter months, when fewer prospective buyers are shopping, home sellers may be more willing to lower their prices, or offer concessions, to attract those prospective buyers who are still looking.”

And the proof is in the data. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows a clear pattern: the longer a home stays on the market, the lower it tends to sell for compared to the original asking price.

a graph of green rectangular objectsSo, if you’re serious about getting as much as you can for your money, focusing on these listings could be your best strategy yet.

Even a Small Discount Can Go a Long Way

And while paying 94% of the original asking price may not sound like much of a deal, the savings add up. That’s roughly $24,000 in savings on the median priced home (see chart below):

Zillow sums it up best:

“If you’re a buyer who is hoping to strike a deal, look for homes that have been on the market for a while and that may already have lowered prices to entice buyers. You may find a motivated seller who is more willing to negotiate.”

Bottom Line

If you want to find the best deal possible on a home right now, start by looking where others aren’t.

With 1 in 5 sellers cutting prices and many growing more flexible by the week, the homes that have been sitting a little longer could be your best opportunity to save.

Talk to a local agent about where to find them in your area.

Why So Many People Are Thankful They Bought a Home This Year

Downsize, First-Time Buyers, For Buyers, Move-Up, Real Estate, , , , ,

Why So Many People Are Thankful They Bought a Home This Year Simplifying The Market

Homebuyers are weighing their options right now, and they certainly have a lot on their minds. With everything going on in the job market, the economy, and more – there’s a lot to think about these days. And maybe that’s making you wonder if it really makes sense to buy a home right now.

But here’s what many recent buyers would tell you: even with all that, making a move is worth it.

And this is why they’re thankful they went ahead and took the plunge already. Life doesn’t wait for better market conditions. So, your decision shouldn’t be about trying to time the market perfectly. It should be about moving when the time is right for you and what you need – and it’s different for everyone.

The Real Reasons People Bought a Home

According to the latest report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), what’s really driving today’s moves is the desire for something better or something different. It’s a personal motivator or a change in what they need out of the home that pushed buyers to act this year (see chart below):

a graph of a number of peopleFor some, that meant trading an apartment for their very first house – a home they can finally make their own, where they can paint the walls, plant the garden, and build a future.

For others, it meant getting closer to the people who matter most. Living near family or friends isn’t just convenient, it changes your everyday life. Sunday dinners, quick visits, extra help when you need it – that kind of connection is priceless.

And for many buyers, it’s the peace of finding a home that finally fits. It’s finally having space to grow: a bigger kitchen for family dinners, or bedrooms where kids can decorate their own walls and carve out their own corners of the world.

Or, it’s about simplifying. Downsizing to something smaller, easier to maintain, and closer to what matters most can make everyday life feel lighter and less stressful.

What You Miss Out on If You Try To Time the Market

No matter the reason, these buyers all share something in common: they stopped waiting for perfect timing and focused on creating the life they wanted now. And if you asked them, odds are they’d say that decision is paying off every day.

That’s what makes a move meaningful. Not the market conditions, but the freedom and happiness that come from living in a home that truly fits. So, while headlines may keep everyone guessing, the people who’ve already made their move are sleeping better, living fuller, and enjoying homes that finally feel right.

Because once your home finally matches your life, everything else starts to fall into place. And that’s exactly how you deserve to feel. 

Bottom Line

The people who bought a home this year didn’t wait for perfect market conditions to line up. They acted on what they needed in their life. And they’re thankful they did.

If you’re feeling the pull toward something better, talk to an agent about your goals. Your next home could bring you more space, more connection, and more happiness than you think.

Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run

Affordability, First-Time Buyers, For Buyers, Real Estate, Rent vs. Buy, , , , ,

Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run Simplifying The Market

Renting can feel much less expensive and much simpler than buying a home, especially right now. No repairs, no property taxes, no worrying about mortgage rates – you just pay the bill and move on with your life.

But here’s the part people don’t talk about enough: renting doesn’t help you build your financial future. Meanwhile, homeowners grow their net worth just by owning a home.

So, if you’ve been wondering whether buying is still worth it, the long-term math is clearer than you might think.

Renting vs. Owning: How the Costs Really Compare

Let’s break down one of the key differences between renting and buying. When you rent, your payment goes to your landlord, and then it’s gone. When you own, part of your payment comes back to you in the form of equity (the wealth you build as the value of your home increases, and you pay down your home loan).

So, while renting may seem more affordable now, you have to remember it comes at a long-term cost: you’re not building your wealth. And it turns out, that’s a bigger miss than you may expect.

First American recently analyzed the long-term financial impact of renting versus owning a home. They compared mortgage payments, property tax, insurance, repairs, and maintenance against the equity gained through home price appreciation and paying down the mortgage. And they did that during several different time frames to see if it tells a consistent story:

  • 2006: the start of the housing bubble
  • 2015: 10 years ago
  • 2019: just before the pandemic (the last normal years in the market)
  • 2022: when mortgage rates jumped

In each time frame, two things were true: renters ended up losing money over time. And homeowners gained it.

Here’s some data so you can see this play out. Each color represents one of the key time frames. The solid lines show the buyer’s investment over time and how their net worth actually grew the longer they lived in their home. The dashed line represents the renter’s investment. In the end, they sank more and more cash into renting without gaining any financial benefit.

a graph of a graph showing the impact of owning vs renters lossThe takeaway is simple: time in a home builds wealth. Time renting doesn’t.

Basically, homeowners come out ahead. And the analysis shows that’s even after you factor in the other expenses that come with homeownership, like insurance, repairs, and property taxes. And that’s the case for every time frame First American looked into.

On the flip side, renters spent money on their rent, but didn’t gain any long-term financial benefit. That’s true no matter what window of time you look at in the study.

Now, that doesn’t mean buying always beats renting in the short term. But the longer you own, the wider the wealth gap becomes.

Affordability Is Starting To Improve

You might still be thinking, “Okay, but buying feels out of reach for me right now.” Fair.

The past few years haven’t been easy for buyers. But things are starting to shift. Mortgage rates have come down this year, home prices are softening, and incomes have been rising. And according to Zillow, typical monthly payments have gotten a little easier compared to this time last year. Not by a lot, but enough to make a difference.

No, buying isn’t suddenly easy. But it is easier than it was just a few months ago. And in the long run, history shows it’s worth it. 

Bottom Line

Renting may feel less expensive today, but owning is what builds real wealth over time. And with affordability starting to improve, the path to homeownership may be opening up more than you think.

If you’re curious what buying could look like for you, connect with a local real estate who can help you plan your next move, pressure-free.

Most Experts Are Not Worried About a Recession

Buying Tips, Economy, First-Time Buyers, For Buyers, Real Estate, , , , ,

Most Experts Are Not Worried About a Recession Simplifying The Market

Homebuyers are watching the economy closely, and for good reason. Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases most people ever make. And some recession talk in the media has made a lot of would-be buyers second guess their plans.

In the latest LendingTree survey, almost 2 in 3 Americans said they think a recession is coming. And 74% of respondents say that’s having an impact on their financial decisions.

But here’s the good news: the experts aren’t nearly as concerned.

Most Americans Expect a Recession, But Most Experts Don’t

According to an October report from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), only 1 in 3 experts surveyed say we may be headed for a recession sometime in the next 12 months (see graph below):

a blue and grey pie chartIf the expert economists aren’t super worried, should you be? We’re not in a recession right now. And there’s no guarantee we’re heading into one.

What we do have is uncertainty – and the best way to handle that is by leaning on facts, not fear. You can do that by making sure you have the information you need to make an informed decision.

Tips for Buying a Home During Periods of Economic Uncertainty

Here’s the best advice anyone can give right now. While it’s important to keep an eye on what’s happening in the economy, that shouldn’t necessarily overshadow your real-life needs. Economic shifts come and go, but the reasons people buy homes rarely change. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

“Well-prepared buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines are likely motivated by personal and lifestyle needs like growing families, new jobs, or retirement. And these considerations can outweigh short-term economic uncertainties . . . ”

Timing your move around real life (not the news cycle) is what matters most.

But here’s the key. If you’re going to buy a home right now, job stability really matters. You need to feel confident in your income and know you can comfortably manage your mortgage payments, even if your situation or the economy shift.

If your job is secure and you’ve built a cushion of savings, experts say you don’t necessarily need to delay. Just keep these tips from the economists at Redfin in mind:

  • Set a budget and stick to it: Don’t overextend. Make sure your payments are affordable and your savings can cover any surprises. This includes factoring in costs likely to rise, like home insurance and taxes.
  • Negotiate: There are more homes for sale right now, and other buyers may pull back because of their own fears. That gives you more negotiating power when working with sellers. Use it to get the best deal possible.
  • Be strategic about payments and mortgage rates: Talk to lenders about what payment you can afford and the rate you can qualify for today, as well as your options if rates go down later on.
  • Consider selling before you buy: If you already own a home, selling first can reduce the financial pressure and help solidify your budget for your next home.

But nothing replaces the value of having a trusted team around you, especially right now. As Bankrate says:

“Buying a home during a recession can sometimes be a good idea – but only for people who are lucky enough to remain financially stable . . . Be sure to enlist the help of an experienced local real estate agent. Not only do agents know their markets well, they will also work to get you the best deal in any given situation, including a recession.”

Bottom Line

Most Americans think a recession is coming. But most experts don’t.

So, you don’t necessarily have to put your moving plans on hold. If your finances are solid, your job is stable, and you have a real need to move, you can still make this happen. You just need the right team of pros by your side. 

What’s holding you back from making your next move? Connect with a local agent and lender to talk it over.

The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner Going into 2026

For Buyers, For Sellers, Forecasts, Inventory, Mortgage Rates, Real Estate, , , , ,

The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner Going into 2026 Simplifying The Market

After several years of high mortgage rates and hesitation from buyers, momentum is quietly building beneath the surface of the housing market. Sellers are reappearing. Buyers are re-engaging. And for the first time in what feels like forever, there’s movement happening again.

No, it’s not a surge. But it is a shift – and it’s one that could set the stage for a stronger year in 2026.

So, what’s driving the comeback? Here are three big trends that are slowly breathing life back into the housing market right now.

1. Mortgage Rates Have Been Coming Down

Mortgage rates are always going to have their ups and downs – that’s just how rates work. Especially with the general economic uncertainty right now, some volatility is to be expected. But, if you zoom out, it’s the larger trend that really matters most.

And overall, rates have been trending down for most of this year (see graph below):

a graph with a line and a green lineAnd in just the last few months, we’ve seen the best rates of 2025. According to Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac:

“On a median-priced home, this could allow a homebuyer to save thousands annually compared to earlier this year, showing that affordability is slowly improving.”

Here’s why that matters for you. This shift changes what you can actually afford. It means lower borrowing costs and more buying power. Take this as an example.

Data from Redfin shows a buyer with a $3,000 monthly budget can now afford roughly $25,000 more home than they could one year ago. That’s a big deal. And it’s just one of the reasons why activity is picking up.

2. More Homeowners Are Ready To Sell

For a while, many homeowners stayed put because they didn’t want to give up their low mortgage rate. That “lock-in effect” kept inventory tight. And while plenty of homeowners are still staying where they are today, the number of rate-locked homeowners is starting to ease as rates come down. Life changes are becoming a bigger part of what’s driving more people to move, and that’s opening up more inventory.

Data from Realtor.com shows just how much the number of homes for sale has grown. And the really interesting part is that the market is approaching levels that haven’t been seen for the past six years (see the blue on the graph below):

a graph of growth in the yearThat return to more normal inventory levels is a really good thing. It gives buyers more options than they’ve had in years. And it’s helping to bring the market closer to balance.

3. More Buyers Are Re-Entering the Market

And it’s not just sellers making moves. With more options and slightly better affordability, buyers are getting back in the game, too. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) reports purchase applications are up compared to last year, a clear signal that demand is building again (see graph below):

a graph of blue and orange barsAnd experts think this momentum will continue. Economists from Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) all forecast moderate sales growth going into 2026.

Now, this recovery won’t happen overnight. It’s not a flood of activity. But it is the start of steady improvement going into 2026. And that’s something a lot of people have been waiting for.

Bottom Line

After several slower-than-normal years, the market is finally starting to turn a corner. Declining mortgage rates, more listings, and growing buyer activity all point to a market gaining real traction.

Connect with a local real estate agent about what’s changing and how you can make the most of it in 2026.

Would You Let $80 a Month Hold You Back from Buying a Home?

Affordability, First-Time Buyers, For Buyers, Forecasts, Mortgage Rates, Real Estate, , , , ,

Would You Let $80 a Month Hold You Back from Buying a Home? Simplifying The Market

A lot of buyers are stuck in “wait and see” mode right now. They’re watching rates hover a little above 6% and thinking, I’ll buy once they hit the 5s. Because who doesn’t want a better rate?

But here’s the thing: that 5.99% number might not save you as much as you think.

Affordability is still a challenge. There’s no question about that. But the market has given savvy buyers a head start. Mortgage rates have already come down over the past few months. And the drop we’ve seen saves you more than you’d think.

How Much You’ve Already Saved, Without Realizing It

Let’s put some real numbers to it. Rates peaked for the year in May when they inched above 7%. But since then, they’ve been slowly declining. Now, they’re sitting in the low 6s. And while that may not sound like a big deal, that change translates to real dollars.

According to data coming out of Redfin, the typical monthly payment on a $400,000 home is already down almost $400 since May.

That means if you’re buying a home now, you’re saving hundreds of dollars every month compared to what you would have been able to get earlier this spring. That’s real money that makes a real difference for buyers who paused their plans because they thought homeownership was out of reach.

And while it may be tempting to wait even longer to see bigger savings, that’s a gamble that could cost you. Here’s why.

Where Experts Say Rates Are Headed

For starters, most experts say mortgage rates are likely to stay pretty much where we are today throughout 2026. So, there’s no guarantee we’ll see a rate much lower than what we have now. Only one expert forecaster is saying rates could fall into the upper 5s next year (see graph below): 

a graph with numbers and linesAnd even if rates do dip below 6%, the extra savings you’re holding out for won’t move the needle as much as you might expect.

The Real Math Behind a 5.99% Rate

Let’s break it down. If rates come down to 5.99% from where they’ve been lately that’s a difference of only about $80 a month on an average priced home – give or take a bit based on your price point and the rate your lender quotes you (see chart below):

a blue and white rectangular table with white textEighty dollars. That’s it. And for the typical family, that’s about one dinner out (or one dinner in, if you have it delivered). That’s not enough to change the game for most buyers. But the savings of nearly $400 we already have compared to when you paused your search in the spring? That might be. 

So, the question to ask yourself is this:

Is an extra $80 savings really worth the wait?

Because while you’re holding out for that small dip, the bigger opportunity might be slipping away.

When Rates Fall, Competition Follows

Right now, you have more homes to choose from, sellers who are ready to negotiate to get a deal done, and fewer buyers to compete with. But once rates fall below 6%, buyer mindsets will shift and all of that will change.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that if rates hit 6%, about 5.5 million more households will be able to afford the median-priced home. Even if only a small fraction of them decide to buy, that could mean hundreds of thousands of buyers getting back into the market.

That creates more competition for you, which would push home prices even higher – maybe high enough to cancel out the extra savings you waited for.

So, if you’re waiting for rates below 6%, just keep in mind… that extra $80 may not be worth it in the grand scheme of things.

Bottom Line

You don’t have to wait for 5.99%. You have the chance to move (and save) right now. So, ask yourself: Would you let $80 hold you back from buying a home?

If you find a home you love and the math makes sense, getting ahead may be the best strategy. Connect with an agent or lender to run your numbers. That way you can see what you’re working with in your market.