Inventory is up 60% from last year, but a crash isn’t likely. I’ll show you how you can make the most of this market in 2025.
If you’re thinking about buying a home right now, you’ve probably heard some headlines and thought, “Isn’t this just like 2008? Is the market about to crash again?”
This concern has been coming up a lot lately, so I want to provide you with a more accurate picture of the market and explain why it’s a great time for homebuyers.
1. More choices due to an increase in inventory. There are over 60% more homes on the market now than at this time last year. That’s a dramatic change, and for buyers, it opens up a real opportunity to buy a home you love without having to fight through bidding wars or settle for less than you want.
2. Home sellers are negotiating more. We’re seeing price reductions and concessions that simply weren’t happening before. You might be able to negotiate a lower price, get the seller to help with closing costs, or even secure an interest rate buy-down from the seller, which can make a big difference on your monthly payment.
Should you wait for lower rates? It's tempting to wait for the "perfect" interest rate before you buy. But most buyers don't realize that when rates drop, competition goes up. Suddenly, everyone jumps back into the market. Prices tend to rise, homes sell faster, and buyers lose the leverage they have right now.
If you buy while inventory is high and sellers are ready to make a deal, you’re likely to get a better price or better terms. And with interest rate buy-downs, you might be able to get that lower rate you’ve been hoping for without having to wait and risk missing out.
"There are more homes on the market, sellers are flexible, and your dream home might be within reach."
Is the market going to crash or not? It's natural to be cautious, but this isn't 2008. The last housing crash is still fresh in people's minds. However, when you look at the data, the story is much different now.
Based on the Case-Shiller Home Price Index, which is considered the gold standard for real estate market trends, there were only two periods when U.S. home prices actually dipped below zero: 1990 to 1991 and 2007 to 2011.
Aside from those, home values have grown steadily, typically 2% to 4% every year, even through tough economies and changing markets. That’s why so many people have built wealth in real estate.
If you’re ready, act fast. Waiting for “perfect” conditions results in missing one of the best opportunities we’ve seen in years. There are many homes to choose from, sellers willing to negotiate, and there’s a possibility of getting the rate you want through a seller buy-down.
If you’re not already working with a lender, let me know. I have trusted lender partners who can help you explore these options, often finding a way to make the numbers work in your favor.
My team and I know how to help buyers capitalize on this market. I personally spent 15 years owning a mortgage company and understand the ins and outs of negotiations, interest rates, and how to structure a deal so you come out ahead.
If you want to talk through your options, just give me a call at (928) 606-6749 or email me at kelly.broaddus@exprealty.com. Even if you’re just thinking about a move, I’m happy to walk you through what’s possible in this market.
Let's make your dream home a reality without the stress and without waiting for the next wave of buyers to start the competition again.