Inventory Is Up—But Not Evenly. Here’s What That Means for You.
For years, trying to buy a home felt like trying to score concert tickets during presale—limited seats, high competition, and not a lot of options. But finally, we’re seeing the shift.
Inventory is climbing across the country, and buyers are breathing a little easier. But let’s get one thing clear: not every region is experiencing the same recovery.
Where Things Stand Right Now
Here’s what the latest data from Realtor.com shows:
· West: 🔼 40.7% more listings than this time last year
· South: 🔼 32.9% jump in inventory
· Midwest: 🔼 Up 22.9%
· Northeast: 🔼 Still growing, but at a slower 19%
More choices = less pressure. But wait—before you assume it’s a buyer’s market everywhere, let’s layer in a reality check.
Compared to Pre-Pandemic? Some Markets Are Still Catching Up
· Midwest: Still down 41% vs. 2017–2019 levels
· Northeast: Even tighter, down 52.4%
· South: Getting close, now just 3.6% below pre-pandemic norms
· West: Within 10.8% of normal inventory levels
So while yes, conditions are improving, we’re not fully “back to normal.” And depending on where you’re shopping or selling, your strategy may need adjusting.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in Florida
If you’re in St Petersburg, Odessa, or greater Tampa, this uptick in supply can be a game-changer. More inventory means more room to negotiate, less chance of bidding wars, and (finally) the ability to walk away if something doesn’t feel right.
Sellers—don’t panic. A more balanced market doesn’t mean it’s a bad one. It just means pricing and presentation matter more than ever. And that’s where expert guidance becomes essential.
Bottom Line
This market isn’t what it was 6 months ago—and definitely not what it was 3 years ago. But navigating it well takes more than reading a graph.
If you're thinking of making a move, let’s talk about what this inventory shift means in your neighborhood, not just on the national news.
—Annie + Kevin Rocks
Rocks Realty | COLLABORATE. ADVOCATE. ELEVATE.
