Why This Summer is the Best Time to Buy a Home

Are you thinking about buying a home but unsure if now is the right time? Many people are waiting and wondering what the market will do next. However, savvy buyers know this:

This summer might be the best time to buy a home in years. Here are three compelling reasons why you should consider making a move now.

1. You Have More Negotiating Power

After years of sellers holding all the leverage, the tide is turning. Take a look at the graph below. It uses data from Redfin to show that there are currently more sellers in the market than buyers:

Reflect on the period between 2021 and early 2023. During that time, there were significantly more buyers (the blue line) than homes available (the green line). This imbalance fueled intense competition, bidding wars, and soaring prices.

Today, that situation has shifted. Buyers are regaining their negotiating power. With more sellers than buyers, many sellers are willing to consider repairs, cover closing costs, or lower their asking price. This newfound balance signifies a healthier, more sustainable market. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), puts it:

If you worry about an oversupply of homes, here’s some reassuring news. Overall inventory remains low compared to historical levels. You don’t need to fear a market crash.

2. More Choices for Buyers

The number of homes for sale has significantly increased. According to the latest data from Realtor.com, listings in May 2025 were higher than those in both May 2024 and May 2023 (see graph below):

Greater availability means more options. Your ideal home might just have been listed, or it could be coming soon. Therefore, now is an excellent time to explore available options. Jake Krimmel, Economist at Realtor.com, notes:

How to Narrow Down Your Options

When you start looking for a home, consider the following tips:

• Define Your Needs: Make a list of must-haves, like the number of bedrooms or location preferences.

• Set a Budget: Know your financial limits to streamline your search.

• Explore Various Neighborhoods: Different areas can offer diverse benefits.

  
  

These steps will help you to zero in on your ideal home.

3. Price Flexibility is Increasing

Houses are not selling as quickly as they did a few years ago. Some sellers are now adjusting their prices to attract buyers or expedite sales. This trend is entirely natural. According to Realtor.com, 19.1% of listings saw a price cut in May 2025 (see graph below):

This marks the fifth consecutive month in which more sellers have reduced their prices. As of May, the volume of price adjustments has returned to normal levels. This signals a return to a more balanced housing market.

While significant discounts may not be common, many sellers are more flexible now. A recent article from The Street mentions:

Keep in mind, most sellers have not adjusted their prices. This flexibility often applies to those who originally set their prices too high. This trend indicates a shifting market rather than a crash.

The Importance of Patience in Negotiating

When negotiating, take your time. Research comparable sales to support your offers. Remember, patience can lead to better terms as sellers adjust to the new market conditions.

Bottom Line

This summer offers a great combination for homebuyers: more options, decreased competition, and greater flexibility in pricing. If you're ready to explore your home-buying journey, let’s connect.

What would finding the right home this summer mean for your next chapter?