Good News for Homebuyers: It’s a Friendlier Market as Sellers Gear Up for Spring
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in 2025, listen up: the housing market is shaping up to be more welcoming than it has been in recent years. And there’s a sweet spot on the calendar for sellers looking to make their move.
According to a recent analysis by Realtor.com®, the week of April 13-19, 2025, will be the best time to sell a home. For buyers, the news isn’t too shabby either: more inventory and somewhat softer competition mean there’s a little more breathing room in what’s been a tough market.
Why Spring 2025 Is Hopeful for Sellers
Spring has always been the prime season for real estate. The week of April 13-19 hits the sweet spot for sellers when buyer demand is intense; competition lower; and listing prices better-than-average. Here’s what makes that week stand out.
Higher Prices. Historically, homes listed during this week sell for 1.1% more than the annual average. That might not sound like a lot but it adds up. For example, if the national median listing price hits $439,900 (as it did in June 2024), sellers could pocket an extra $4,800 compared with listing at an average time.
Strong Buyer Demand. Buyers tend to come out in full force during spring. Listings typically see 17.7% more views during that week than the average week, which means more eyes on your property—and perhaps more offers.
Less Competition. Fewer sellers tend to list during this week, which means your home won’t get lost in a sea of “For Sale” signs. In fact, there are normally 13.2% fewer active listings during this time compared with the rest of the year.
Fewer Price Cuts. Sellers are less likely to slash their prices during this period. On average 20.9% fewer homes see price cuts during this week compared with the rest of the year.
If you’re planning to list in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. The majority of sellers (53%) take a month or less to get their homes ready, so don’t drag your feet.
What’s Changed for Buyers?
If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, waiting for the market to cool off, there’s some good news, too. Though affordability is still a big headache, the ice is starting to thaw. Here’re how.
More Inventory. 2024 registered the highest number of homes for sale since the pandemic began and that trend is expected to continue into 2025. In January 2025 inventory was up 24.6% compared with the same period a year earlier. That’s still below pre-pandemic levels, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Slower Market Pace. Homes are sitting on the market longer, giving buyers more time to make decisions. In 2024 the median days on the market crept up, and sellers became more flexible, with a higher share of homes seeing price cuts.
Mortgage Rates May Ease. Although rates have hovered stubbornly in the 6.5% to 7% range, experts predict they’ll dip into the mid-to-low 6% range by the end of 2025. That’s not a big slide; yet it could make a difference for buyers who’ve been priced out.
Still, buyers shouldn’t expect a cakewalk. Prices remain jaw-dropping, and competition can heat up quickly during the spring and summer months. If you’re serious about buying, it pays to get your finances in order and be ready to move fast when the right home comes along.
What’s Driving the Market, Anyway?
The housing market has been on a wild ride since the pandemic. High mortgage rates, stubbornly elevated prices, and a shortage of inventory all helped to boost prices. Yet there are signs of hope.
The “lock-in” effect is easing. Many homeowners have been loath to sell because they didn’t want to give up their ultra-low mortgage rates. But in 2024 that lock-in effect started to loosen, causing more homes to pile into the market.
New construction is helping, too. Builders have been ramping up construction, adding much-needed inventory to the market. This is especially important in areas where demand far outstrips supply.
Meanwhile, while inflation may have lost some bite, it’s far from being tamed. Throw in the Trump administration’s flirtation with tariffs and housing affordability initiatives and the market’s next move becomes anyone’s guess. That means buyers and sellers alike may hesitate to make big moves until the economic picture becomes clearer.
What Should Sellers Do?
If you’re planning to sell in 2025, the week of April 13-19 is your golden opportunity. But don’t wait until the last minute to get your ducks in a row. Here’s how to make the most of the spring selling season.
Start Early. Most sellers take about a month to prep their homes, so start now. Declutter, make repairs and consider staging to make your home shine.
Price It Right. The market favors sellers but overpricing can backfire. Work with a real estate agent to set a competitive price that attracts buyers without leaving money on the table.
Be Flexible. Even in a seller’s market, flexibility can help you close the deal. Consider offering concessions or being open to negotiation.
What About Buyers?
The market is still troublesome for buyers. Yet there are reasons to be optimistic. Here’s what you can do.
Get Pre-Approved. With mortgage rates still painfully high, it’s important to know what you can afford. Getting pre-approved will give you a leg up when you find the right home.
Be Patient. More inventory means more options but that also means you’ll need to do your homework. Don’t rush into a decision; take your time to find the right fit.
Watch for Deals. While prices are uncomfortably elevated, some sellers like those whose home has been on the market for a while are willing to negotiate. Keep an eye out for price reductions and be ready to pounce.
The Bottom Line
The market is becoming more friendlier than in the past few years. For sellers, the week of April 13-19 is the best chance to maximize your profits and minimize stress. As for buyers, more inventory and less competition mean you’ll have more options and more time to make your move.
