One home goes under contract within days, sometimes hours. Why some homes are flying off the market while others just sit?
According to Redfin, the housing market has been “topsy-turvy since the pandemic,” and they’re not wrong. With low (but slowly rising) inventory and persistently high prices, it’s created a strange mix of urgency and hesitation. Let’s break it down.
A Market of Contrasts
One of the biggest surprises of 2025 is how uneven the housing market feels. Some sellers are seeing multiple offers and fast closings. Others? Crickets.
Why the disconnect? A few key reasons:
- Location and condition matter more than ever
- Pricing strategy can make or break a sale
- Buyers are picky—and cautious
It’s not just about listing your home anymore. It’s about making it stand out in a market that’s adjusting in real time.
What the Experts Forecast for the Rest of 2025
Industry analysts from MBA, NAR, Zillow, and others are offering some helpful guidance:
- Rates are expected to end the year in the mid-to-low 6s, which may bring more buyers back into the game.
- Inventory will continue to improve, giving buyers more options and sellers more competition.
- Home prices will rise modestly—about 2%, offering stability without the steep increases we’ve seen in recent years.
Translation? The frenzy of the pandemic years is over, but this is still a great market—if you play it right.
Tips If You’re Selling
Want your home to be one of the fast-selling ones? Here’s what’s working in 2025:
- Price it right from the start. Buyers are well-informed and hesitant to overpay.
- Prep and stage your home. Clean, decluttered, and updated homes get more attention.
- Invest in marketing. Professional photos, video tours, and social exposure make a difference.
Tips If You’re Buying
Even though inventory is improving, competition is still real. Here’s how to stay ready:
- Get pre-approved before you start shopping.
- Be flexible—if a home fits 80% of your wishlist, it might be a win.
- Work with a local expert who knows how to navigate this ever-shifting landscape.
Today’s market isn’t impossible, it’s just different. Homes that check the right boxes (price, condition, location) are flying off the shelves. But homes that miss the mark? They’re sitting.
Whether you’re buying or selling, strategy matters more than ever. Let’s chat about how to get you where you want to be on your timeline, and with confidence.
