Wondering if it’s a good time to buy or sell a home? This blog breaks down today’s split housing market—where some areas favor buyers and others still favor sellers—so you can make the smartest move in your local market.

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For the past few years, the housing market felt like a high-speed rollercoaster—especially if you were selling. Homes were going under contract in days (sometimes hours), bidding wars were the norm, and buyers were practically writing love letters just to get noticed.

But times are changing. Fast.

We’re now in what feels like a tale of two markets. In some places, homes still vanish off the market like concert tickets. In others? Properties are hanging around a little longer, giving buyers room to breathe—and negotiate.

Buyer’s Market vs. Seller’s Market: What’s the Difference?

Let’s break this down.

In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. That means sellers have to compete, not buyers. Prices soften, homes sit longer, and buyers can often negotiate for things like price cuts or closing cost help.

Now flip that.

A seller’s market is when there aren’t enough homes to meet demand. Homes sell fast, bidding wars are common, and buyers often have to offer over asking just to get their foot in the door.

Right Now? It’s Getting More Balanced

From 2020 to early 2022, sellers ruled the game. But according to Zillow, we’re entering more neutral territory. That means neither side has a huge advantage. Buyers aren’t getting steamrolled like before, and sellers are having to work a little harder to stand out.

What does that look like in real life? Less panic buying. Fewer bidding wars. More thoughtful decisions. And for savvy buyers and sellers? More opportunity.

Inventory Is Driving the Shift

So, what’s behind the change? Inventory. Simple as that.

When more homes are available, buyers have options—and competition cools. Realtor.com’s data shows that the South and West are seeing big jumps in inventory—almost back to pre-pandemic levels. That’s why buyer’s markets are emerging there.

But in the Northeast and Midwest? Not so much. Inventory is still tight, which means sellers still hold the upper hand in many of those areas.

What Does This Mean for YOU?

Here’s the deal: national headlines are great, but real estate is hyper-local. Your zip code might be a hot seller’s market, while the next town over is tipping toward the buyers.

That’s why partnering with a sharp, local real estate agent is more important than ever. They know the ins and outs of your market and can guide you on when to strike, how to price, how to negotiate, and where to look for deals or maximize your sale.

Zillow says it best:

“Agents are experts on their local markets and can craft buying or selling strategies tailored to local market conditions.”

So, whether you’re chasing your dream home or getting ready to list, don’t guess—get the guidance that could save (or make) you thousands.

Bottom Line

The market isn’t one-size-fits-all anymore. It’s shifting, balancing, and full of opportunity—if you know where to look. Let’s figure out what kind of market you live in and build a smart game plan around it.

Call or text us at 855-935-MORE to get expert insight and a strategy tailored just for you.