Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time to Restart Your Home Search
If you stepped back from your home search over the past few years, you’re not alone — and you’re definitely not out of options.
In fact, now might be the ideal time to take another look. With more homes to choose from, prices leveling off, and mortgage rates finally easing, today’s market is offering something buyers haven’t had in a while: options.
Experts agree — buyers are in a better position now than they’ve been in years. Here’s what the latest data and insights reveal.
Affordability Is Finally Improving
Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, notes that affordability is finally starting to turn the corner:
“Slower price growth coupled with a slight drop in mortgage rates will improve affordability and create a window for some buyers to get into the market.”
After a long stretch of record-high mortgage rates, things are easing.
✅ Price growth has slowed.
✅ Rates have dipped slightly.
✅ More homes are within reach again.
That one-two combo means homes are becoming more affordable than they’ve been in months.
More Homes on the Market = More Choices
Another big reason prices are softening is that more homes are available.
According to Realtor.com, there are 17% more homes for sale today than there were at this time last year. That means:
Less competition
More negotiating power
A better chance to find the perfect fit
Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says it best:
“Homebuyers are in the best position in more than five years to find the right home and negotiate for a better price. Current inventory is at its highest since May 2020, during the COVID lockdown.”
What the Numbers Show
Inventory is up across the board. Compared to this time last year, every region in the country has more homes on the market.
That means whether you want a bigger backyard, a shorter commute, or to finally move out of your rental — there are more options waiting.
The South and West have even surpassed pre-pandemic inventory levels, while the Northeast and Midwest are catching up.
But no matter where you look, supply is improving — and that’s good news for buyers everywhere.
Why This Market Is a Win for Buyers
With fewer buyers actively competing and more homes available, sellers are now more open to negotiating. That could mean:
Price flexibility
Closing cost help
Room for inspections and contingencies
Even better? When you work with a local agent, you can pinpoint neighborhoods where opportunities are strongest — because every market moves differently.
Bottom Line
If you stepped away from the market because things felt too competitive or too expensive, this could be your moment to take another look.
And if you’re still in the planning stage, that’s okay too. Start by connecting with a trusted real estate professional who can:
✔️ Help you understand your local market
✔️ Set a smart budget
✔️ Guide you through the buying process
Because this isn’t 2021.
This isn’t 2023 or 2024.
👉 This is a new market — and you might be surprised by what you find.
