Last year, 70% of buyers hit pause on their home search — and maybe you were one of them. It made sense. Between unpredictable mortgage rates, high prices, and limited inventory, finding the right home felt like chasing a moving target.
But now? The landscape is changing. And if you’ve been on the sidelines, it might be time to get back in the game.
· More Inventory Means More Options
The biggest frustration for many buyers wasn’t just affordability — it was the lack of available homes. You simply couldn’t find what you were looking for.
But inventory has climbed significantly. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes on the market is up 27.5% compared to this time last year:
That’s great news whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both. If you’ve hesitated to list because you weren’t sure where you'd go next — your odds of finding a home you love just got better.
· A Slower Pace = More Breathing Room
We’re also seeing a shift in how fast homes are selling. During the pandemic frenzy, homes were flying off the market. Blink and you missed your chance.
But as inventory grows, homes are staying on the market a bit longer. In February, the median number of days on the market rose to 66 — about a week longer than this time last year, and the highest since 2020:
That extra time can give buyers like you a much-needed pause to explore your options, think things through, and make decisions without feeling pressured.
As Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com, put it:
“There are more homes for sale than in the last few years... the market pace is a bit more manageable — with longer days on market — and many sellers are more flexible.”
· Worried About Selling? Don’t Be.
Even though homes are sitting a little longer, it doesn’t mean they’re not selling. Inventory is still 22.9% below pre-pandemic norms, so well-prepped, well-priced homes are still moving — especially as more buyers re-enter the market this spring.
Bottom Line
If your 2024 plans got put on hold, you’re not alone. But 2025 is bringing new opportunities — with more listings, more flexibility, and a pace that’s a little more buyer-friendly.
So, what else do you need to feel confident about restarting your search?
Let’s connect and talk about what’s happening in our local market — and how to make your next move a smart one.
