Why This Summer Could Be the Best Time to Buy a Home in Years
If you’re thinking about buying a home but are still on the fence, you’re not alone. Plenty of buyers are wondering if now is the right time or if waiting could lead to better opportunities. But according to recent market trends, this summer might actually offer the best conditions for homebuyers we’ve seen in years.
Why? Because the real estate landscape is shifting in a way that favors buyers in more ways than one. If you’re ready to explore what’s out there, here are six compelling reasons why buying a home this summer might be your smartest move yet.
1. Buyers Have More Negotiating Power
For several years, sellers dominated the market. With more buyers than homes available, bidding wars and waived inspections became the norm. But that’s changing. According to Redfin data, there are now more sellers than buyers in the market—a reversal from what we saw in the frenzied 2021–2023 window.
This shift gives buyers the upper hand. Sellers may now be more open to negotiations, such as agreeing to repair requests, covering some closing costs, or even reducing their asking price. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), points out:
“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.”
This isn’t about a market crash—there still aren’t too many homes on the market. It’s simply a healthier balance between supply and demand.
2. Inventory Is Up and Choices Are Better
One of the biggest frustrations for buyers over the past few years was the lack of available homes. But now, that’s changing. Realtor.com reports that more homes were listed this May than in both May 2023 and May 2022.
More inventory means you’re more likely to find a home that checks your boxes. Whether you’re looking for a home office, a larger yard, or a particular neighborhood, the odds of finding the right fit are much higher now. Economist Jake Krimmel at Realtor.com notes:
“With more fresh inventory hitting the market, buyers have better opportunities to find a home that fits their needs.”
This increased selection means you don’t have to settle for less or rush a decision.
3. Sellers Are More Flexible on Price
Today’s homes aren’t flying off the market as quickly as they used to. As a result, some sellers are lowering their asking prices to attract buyers. In fact, 19.1% of listings saw price reductions in May 2025, according to Realtor.com. That’s the fifth consecutive month where price cuts have increased.
This trend doesn’t signal a market collapse—it reflects a correction in seller expectations. Homes that were priced too aggressively are now adjusting to reflect actual market demand. As The Street puts it:
“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.”
If you’re watching your budget closely, a price cut—even a small one—can open the door to homes that were just out of reach a few months ago.
4. Mortgage Rate Buydowns and Seller Incentives Are More Common
With more sellers competing for fewer buyers, many are offering incentives to get deals done. This includes temporary mortgage rate buydowns, closing cost assistance, or covering HOA fees. These can significantly reduce your upfront expenses or lower your monthly payments in the early years of your loan.
Builders are especially generous with these incentives as they look to move inventory before year-end. These added perks can make a meaningful difference, especially if you’re concerned about current mortgage rates.
5. Less Competition Means More Time to Think
During the height of the seller’s market, buyers had to act fast—sometimes within hours—without fully considering their options. But with today’s more balanced market, you’re less likely to face 10 competing offers on the same home.
This reduced pressure gives you the time to shop smarter. You can compare neighborhoods, consider your financing options, and conduct thorough inspections—without feeling rushed. A thoughtful purchase usually leads to greater satisfaction and fewer regrets.
6. Home Prices Are Still Rising—Just More Slowly
While the extreme price spikes of recent years have cooled, home values are still climbing, albeit at a more sustainable pace. According to the latest projections from Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association, prices are expected to rise steadily through at least 2029.
Waiting too long could mean you’ll pay more for the same home next year—or the year after. The sooner you buy, the sooner your investment starts building equity. If you plan to own your home for the next 5 to 10 years, even moderate appreciation can translate into a strong return on investment.
Bottom Line
This summer presents a rare opportunity for homebuyers—a window where the market has started to normalize, and the conditions finally tip in your favor.
You’ll benefit from increased inventory, flexible sellers, pricing adjustments, and incentives—all without the frenzy of past years. It’s a more stable, more negotiable, and more thoughtful buying environment.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, this just might be it. Connect with a local real estate agent who can help you explore your options, understand your local market, and guide you toward the home that fits your goals and your budget.