Are you considering buying a home but unsure if now is the right time? You’re not alone. Many people are on the fence, waiting to see what happens next in the market.
But here’s what the savviest buyers are realizing: this summer might be one of the best windows to buy in years — and here’s why.
1. You Have More Negotiating Power
After several years of sellers holding all the leverage, the market is starting to shift. According to Redfin, there are now more sellers than buyers in many areas of the country.
During the 2021–2023 frenzy, bidding wars and price escalations were common. But now, with more active listings and fewer buyers, negotiation is back on the table. That could mean:
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Sellers covering closing costs
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Willingness to negotiate on repairs
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Some price flexibility, especially for homes sitting on the market
As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of REALTORS®, says:
“With housing inventory levels reaching five-year highs, homebuyers in nearly every region of the country are in a better position to negotiate more favorable terms.”
📘 If you’re buying your first home or need a refresher on how negotiations work, visit our Buyer Services page.
2. You Have More Homes to Choose From
One of the biggest advantages buyers have this summer is choice. Inventory has grown, and that means your chances of finding the right fit are improving.
According to Realtor.com, May saw more listings than in the same month of the last two years. That means your dream home may already be on the market — or about to hit.
As Jake Krimmel, economist at Realtor.com, explains:
“With more fresh inventory hitting the market, buyers have better opportunities to find a home that fits their needs.”
3. Sellers Are More Flexible on Price
More homes on the market means they’re taking longer to sell. And when that happens, some sellers choose to reduce their asking price.
Realtor.com reports that 19.1% of listings in May had price cuts, marking the fifth consecutive month of increasing seller adjustments.
That doesn’t mean prices are crashing — most sellers are simply coming down from over-optimistic expectations. But this shift gives buyers some breathing room and leverage.
As The Street recently noted:
“Although sellers have had the upper hand in the housing market over the past few years, houses are now staying on the market for longer, shifting negotiating power back to homebuyers.”
Bottom Line: Timing Could Be in Your Favor
This summer offers a rare combination: more inventory, more reasonable sellers, and less buyer competition.
If you’re ready to make your move — or want to understand what you can afford — we’re here to help.
📍 Serving Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas with trusted local expertise.
→ Request a Free Home Valuation or Buyer Consultation
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