#realtor.com – Make Your Move with Mari

Sellers Are Cutting Prices

They know that to sell, they have to be willing to engage in some give and take.

You’re scrolling through listings on your phone and everything looks good until you see the price (or the estimated monthly payment). Then you close the app.

Because even if you love the house, the numbers feel impossible. But here’s the thing.

Nationally, there are more house sitting on the market than there are people out there looking. And when sellers need buyers more than buyers need sellers, that shows up in the price.

Lower asking prices. More price cuts. And homes priced for what buyers can actually afford – not what sellers hope someone might pay.

Not what sellers say they “need,” either.

And it may be enough to make buying more doable than you’d think.

4 Out of 10 Sellers Are Cutting Their Price

One of the clearest signs sellers are adjusting? Price cuts. HousingWire Data shows more than 40% of sellers are dropping this price.

That’s just slightly behind the volume we saw last year (see graph below):

That’s more than 4 out of every 10 homes listed. Think about what that means. That’s thousands of sellers deciding they’d rather lower their asking price than keep waiting for someone willing to stretch their budget.

They know that to sell, they have to be willing to do some give and take. And when no buyers are biting, they’re pulling their biggest lever to draw buyers back in – their price. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

“This is a market where people are adjusting and showing up rather than giving up. Sellers are meeting the market with more realistic asking prices, which is helping deals get done.”

This July Saw the Lowest Median List Price for Any July in Five Years

What about the other 6 in 10 sellers? A lot of them started with a lower asking price to begin with rather than test the higher price and get crickets from buyers.

This is the strategy we recommend to our buyers. Those who start higher? They end up reducing the price and wait longer for their home to sell than they needed to.

That may be why July 2026 had the lowest median list price of any July in the past five years, according to Realtor.com (see the white line in the graph below):

Now, that doesn’t mean home values are falling or that everything’s suddenly a steal. Prices are still above where they were before the pandemic. But what it does mean is this.

Sellers no longer banking on bidding wars or expecting buyers to pay whatever they ask. Instead, many are listing at prices that better reflect today’s market from the very beginning.

And honestly, whether they’re pricing competitively from day one or adjusting after a few weeks on the market, the message for you is the same:

Sellers are more willing to meet you where you’re at.

Yes, affordability can be a real challenge. And the monthly payment you take on definitely does matter. But if you’ve been assuming everything is out of budget, there may be more wiggle room than you think.

Bottom Line

Right now, sellers are flexible on the price in ways they weren’t before. Let’s take advantage of that flexibility.

You may be surprised by what’s available – and how willing today’s sellers are to work with you.

If you’re ready to go, please let us know. You can always find us at 508-388-1994 (Mari and Hank) or 781-264-5517 (Colleen).

Mari, Hank. and Colleen

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Downpayments Are Smaller than They’ve Been Since 2021

Why buyers are putting less down.

Every dollar counts when you’re buying a home, which is why the recent dip in typical down payments really matters.

According to Realtor.com, the typical buyer put down about $23,400 in early 2026 – that’s $5,000 less than in 2025 and a 19% drop year over year! That’s the lowest down payments have been since 2021 (see graph below):

So why are buyers putting less money down, and how can you put less down, too? Here’s your answer.

Why Down Payments Are Getting Smaller

There are a few things driving the trend:

Less competition between buyers. Part of it comes down to a more balanced market. With buyers facing less competition than they did a few years ago, there’s less pressure to put a big sum down just to stand out.
More moderate home prices. Your down payment is a percentage of the purchase price. So, as price growth cools, the amount you need to put down may change too. In a lot of markets, prices have slowed or leveled off, and some areas are even seeing slight dips. That can translate into smaller down payments.
Buyers opting for loans with lower down payments. More buyers are also turning to government-backed loans, like FHA and VA, which often need little or no money down. FHA loans have made up more than 24% of purchase mortgages for five straight quarters, and VA loans recently hit their highest share in over a decade, according to Mortgage Professional America.

But even a smaller down payment is still a significant chunk of cash, and saving it can be hard. So where does the rest come from? For many buyers, two things make the difference: programs built to help, and a hand from loved ones.

Help You May Not Know You Qualify For

Down payment assistance is one of the most overlooked tools out there. Looking at the 10 largest U.S. metros, Urban Institute and Down Payment Resource found nearly 44% of recent buyers already qualified for a down payment program, but many of them closed on their loan without tapping the help (see chart below):

The options are broader than you might assume, too. According to Down Payment Resource:

There are more than 2,600 down payment assistance programs available
More than half (62%) are designed to help first-time buyers
38% have no first-time buyer requirement, so you may qualify even if you’ve owned before
62% are open to buyers earning $100,000 or more

A Boost from Loved Ones

For a growing number of buyers, help comes from closer to home. Research from Veterans United shows about 59% of parents have provided or plan to provide financial support to help their child buy a home.

That support most often goes toward the down payment, followed by help qualifying for a mortgage and covering closing costs. Chris Birk, VP of Mortgage Insight at Veterans United, puts it this way:

“For many families, helping a child buy a home has become less of an optional gesture and more of a practical response to today’s affordability challenges.”

If your loved ones are in a position to help, it can make a real difference in how soon you can buy.

Bottom Line

Down payments are smaller than they’ve been in years, and that opens the door for more buyers.

And with added help from assistance programs and a little help from loved ones, you may have more ways forward than you realized.

We can help you sort through your options and connect you with a trusted lender. You can always find us at 508-399-1994 (Mari and Hank) or 781-264-5517 (Colleen).

Let’s talk soon..

Mari, Hank, and Colleen

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Three Misconceptions About the Market

It’s fact vs. fiction.

Some buyers, sellers, and commentators are a little uncertain right now about the housing market. And that’s led to some dramatic headlines. If you’re thinking about buying a home, this may be making you feel a little uneasy about your decision.

A recent study by CNBC asked homebuyers what they’re most worried about, and three themes kept coming up again and again:

Mortgage rates
The number of homes for sale
Home prices

You should know that a lot of what you may be hearing is based more on misconceptions than facts. So, let’s break it down and separate fact from fiction.

Misconception #1:“I’ll Just Wait, Because Mortgage Rates Are Going To Fall Dramatically”

One idea going around on social is that mortgage rates are going to drop dramatically soon. So, it’s better to wait to buy.

But is thatreallywhat’s expected?

While mortgage rates have come down a bit in the last few weeks, forecasts don’t show a major drop ahead.The most likely scenario is that rates stay somewhere in the low 6% range this year.

And that’s not a big change from where rates are now (see graph below):

Of course, this depends on where inflation and the economy go from here. But, based on what we know today, waiting for a big drop in rates may not work out the way some people hope. AsU.S. Newsexplains:

“Mortgage rates aren’t expected to change much over the next several quarters . . .”

Not to mention, even with rates where they are today, it’s alreadymore affordable than a year ago. So, even if they don’t change much, it’s still better than it was.

Misconception #2:“There Are Too Many Homes for Sale Right Now”

You’ve probably heard inventory is up. And nationally, it is. The number of homes for sale is 8% higher than this time last year. But that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s one of the reasons buyers have a bit morebreathing room right now.

The problem is the headlines are making something good, sound bad. They’re focusing on how this is the most inventory we’ve had since 2019 or how many homes builders are building. And that can make it sound like the number of homes for sale is rising too far, too fast.

But that’s not what the bigger picture shows.

DatafromRealtor.comshows that, even though inventory is up compared to last year, it’s still nearly 14% lower than it was during the last normal housing market (2017-2019):

On Cape Cod, inventory is down 21% comparing this March to last.

Misconception #3:“Home Prices Are About to Crash”

You’ve probably seen this one, too. The confusion is coming from the fact that some areas are experiencing price declines. And influencers are running with that and saying prices are crashing. But that’s not the reality.

Most areas are seeing prices rise, not fall. On Cape, the median sales price for a single-family home is up almost 2% YTD comparing the first three months of this year with the same time period in 2025.

Why are prices up?

Many homeowners aren’t selling because they don’t want to give up the low mortgage rate they locked in a few years ago. And that’s keeping a lid on how much inventory can grow.
Since inventory is still below pre-pandemic norms, there aren’t enough homes for sale to cause a price crash.
And even in markets with more inventory, some sellers are choosing to pull their homes off the market instead of cutting prices.

Bottom Line

Online posts are going to make things sound worse than they are. If you want a true, data-bound look at what’s really happening in today’s market, please talk with us. You can always find us at 508-388-1994 (Mari and Hank) or 781-423-8662

We can separate fact from fiction.

Mari, Hank, and Colleen

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Coming Soon: The Best Week to List Your House!

Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year.

While the spring season consistently offers up some of the best conditions for home sellers, Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year. And it’s coming up fast.

Based on their analysis of historical trends, the ideal week to put your house on the market this year is: April 12–18.

And here’s why this window stands out as being particularly seller-friendly:

Buyers Are More Active. According to the research coming out of Realtor.com, homes listed during this week typically get about 16.7% more views than in a normal week. And in a market where buyers have options, getting that extra attention can set the tone for your entire sale.
Sales Happen Faster. Realtor.com also explains the added demand from buyers sets you up for a faster process. While homes have been taking longer to sell lately, homes up for sale this week were on the market for 17% less time than usual. And that’s a difference you’ll be able to feel.
A Better Price for Your House. Since the number of homes for sale has grown, it’s normal for buyers to ask for credits, repairs, and price adjustments today. But, during this early Spring window, about 18.9% fewer homes do a price cut. That gives you a better chance of getting your full asking price.
More Profit in Your Pocket. According to the study, well-prepped homes listed this week can command a price that’s about $5,300 more than the average week (and $26,000 more than homes at the start of the year).

And who doesn’t want more eyes on their house, getting an offer in hand sooner (rather than later), and their best shot at selling for top dollar?

What You Need To Do To Get Ready

If you’re already thinking about selling and you want to take advantage of this sweet spot, your next step is shockingly simple. Just give us a call now. You can always find us at 508-388-1994 (Mari and Hank) and 781-423-8662 (Colleen).

Our expertise is going to be key over the next few weeks. We’ll help you figure out what you need to do now to get your house ready. Including:

What you’ll want to spruce up before listing
How to prioritize any repairs (and contractors that can help)
Quick wins that’ll have a big impact
What buyers care most about today
For some sellers, that’s a few easy fixes they can knock out in the next couple of weeks. A fresh coat of paint. Some new mulch. Or some light Spring cleaning.

For others, it’s worth taking another month or so to make some minor updates before listing. And that’s okay. Because while this mid-April window may give sellers an advantage, it’s not your only opportunity to sell.

And don’t forget…Colleen was on the staff the This Old House TV program. So, she knows a thing or two about this.

Bottom Line

Getting your house on the market in mid-April may give you an extra edge, but the bigger opportunity is the Spring season as a whole. The real question is:

Do you know what you need to do before you can list?

Because it’s officially go-time for any seller planning a Spring move.

If you want your house to hit the market during the “best” week (or even this season), let’s talk about what it’ll take to get it ready.

Mari, Hank, and Colleen

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Advantages of Being a Spring Seller

If you’re going to sell this year, why not do it when the odds are in your favor?

If you’re thinking about selling, you’re hoping for: plenty of interested buyers, strong offers, and a short timeline.

And spring is the season that most often delivers all three.

So, if a move has been on your mind this year, this is the window where momentum tends to work in your favor. Here’s what makes this season so powerful for sellers.

1. More Buyers Will Be Looking

Typically speaking, there’s no more popular time to move than the spring. Historically, data coming out of ShowingTime proves this is the time when buyer activity peaks each year. Take a look for yourself (see graph below):

And this year, there’s more than just the seasonal trend working in your favor. Mortgage rates are also sitting near three-year lows and that combination matters.

More buyers + improving affordability = more eyes on your house.

That doesn’t mean the market will return to the frenzy of the pandemic – far from it. But it does mean more buyers will be ready to re-enter the market. And that’s good for you. As Redfin says:

“Homebuying demand is improving . . . and mortgage-purchase applications are sitting near their highest level in three years. . .”

You should make sure your house is listed so you can take advantage of the uptick in demand. Because more activity means one thing: more opportunity to get a deal done.

2. You May Get More Offers

With more buyer demand, it makes sense that you may get more offers on your house. And history shows that’s usually true.

If we look at the data for the last three years from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and take the averages for each month, it’s clear sellers in the spring get more offers (see graph below):

Don’t expect the excessive bidding wars that were so famous in 2020 and 2021. But it does mean, seasonality could help you out this spring. As Realtor.com explains:

“Spring typically brings out more buyers who are ready to make a move before summer. Listings see more views, showings, and offers during this season.”

On Cape Cod, being in their new home by summer is obviously a priority for many buyers.

3. Homes Usually Sell Faster

There’s one more predictable pattern that happens pretty much every spring: homes sell faster (see graph below):

On average, homes sell 20 days faster in the Spring compared to the Winter. That’s almost 3 weeks shaved off your timeline. And that’s a difference you can feel.

Since homes have been taking longer to sell lately, listing your house during what’s usually the most active time of the year means you’re setting yourself up to move as quickly as possible. And isn’t that what you really want?

The faster your home sells, the earlier you can move on to what’s next for you.

If you’re eager to go on to your next chapter, whether it’s to downsize, or because you’ve run out of space, spring may be your best time to sell.

Bottom Line

Spring doesn’t guarantee a sale. Strategy still matters. But this season gives you something valuable: momentum.

More buyers. More activity. More opportunity.

We can tell you that the three of us were busy this past weekend with buyers and expect the activity to continue in the days and weeks ahead.

Let’s talk about what selling this season could mean for your house and your timeline. You can always find us at 508-388-1994 (Mari and Hank) and 781-423-8662 (Colleen).

If you’re going to sell this year, why not do it when the odds are in your favor?

Mari, Hank. and Colleen

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Top 3 Reasons to Buy Before Spring

It’s not about rushing.

If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. You’re hoping that:

Mortgage rates drop a little more.
More homes hit the market.

But here’s what you may not realize. Buying just a few weeks earlier could mean paying less, dealing with less stress, and feeling less rushed.

Here are three reasons why accelerating your timeline over the next few weeks could actually be a better play.

1. Holding Out for Lower Rates May Not Pay Off

A lot of buyers are hoping mortgage rates will fall even further. But that’s not the best strategy. Here’s why. Experts are pretty aligned on this: rates are expected to stay roughly where they are.

Forecasts throughout the industry all point to the same thing: rates are projected to be in the low-6% range this year (see graph below):

That’s not a bad thing, especially if you consider how much rates have already come down. Over the past 12 months, they’ve dropped roughly a full percentage point. And for many buyers, that means affordability has already improved more than they may realize.

Locally, Cape Cod 5 has posted rates in the upper 5% range. (BTW… In our experience we’ve seen it is often easier to work with a local lender than one off Cape or in a different state or part of the country.)

So why wait a few more weeks just for more buyers to jump in and act as your competition? You already have a window right now. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economics Research at Redfin, explains:

“House hunters should know that this may be near the lowest mortgage rates fall for the foreseeable future.”

2. Spring Means More Competition + More Stress

Speaking of competition, the spring market is popular for a reason, but with popularity comes pressure. With more buyers active at that time of year, you’ll have to move faster once you find a home you like. And no one likes feeling rushed.

But buy now and you have more time to browse. Fewer people are looking, so homes sit longer.

You can see this play out in the data from Realtor.com (see graph below). In winter months, it takes an average of about 70 days for a home to sell. In spring? That drops to about 50 days. That’s a 20-day swing – and that pace is going to be more stressful.

Homes sell faster in the spring, and slower in the winter. And that can be a worthwhile perk for buyers who want to get ahead before their decisions start to feel rushed.

3. Prices Tend To Rise When Competition Heats Up

And here’s something most buyers forget to factor in. Prices usually respond to demand. So, when demand is higher, prices are too. Bankrate explains:

“Spring and early summer are the busiest and most competitive time of year for the real estate market . . . home prices tend to be steeper to reflect the increased demand.”

In fact, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that in 2025, buyers who purchased in the beginning of the year saved roughly $30,000–$35,000 compared to those who bought when prices peaked in the spring or early summer.

And let’s be honest, every little bit of savings helps. That’s why buying just a few weeks earlier, before prices ramp up, will be better for you and your wallet.

Bottom Line

Buying a few weeks before spring isn’t about rushing. It’s about choosing to be ahead of the curve and knowing you want more leverage, less stress, and meaningful savings.

If you’re ready and able to buy now and want to get the ball rolling, let’s connect. You can always find us at 508-388-1994 (Mari and Hank) and 781-423-8662 (Colleen).

Mari, Hank, and Colleen – Mari Sennott Plus/Today Real Estate

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Reasons to be Optimistic in 2026

Top economists have one word to sum up the housing market for 2026: opportunity.

If a move is on your radar for 2026, there’s a lot more working in your favor than there has been in a while.

After a stretch where many people felt stuck, 2026 is shaping up to be a year with more balance, more options, and more clarity for those who want to make a move. Not because the market is suddenly “easy,” but because several key conditions are shifting.

Here’s what the experts are saying you have to look forward to.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com:

“After a challenging period for buyers, sellers and renters, 2026 should offer a welcome, if modest, step toward a healthier housing market.”

The National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Top economists have one word to sum up the housing market for 2026: opportunity. Lower mortgage rates and a rising supply of homes are expected to open up the housing market . . . something the real estate industry and potential home buyers and sellers have been waiting for, following three years of stagnation.”

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American:

“. . . for the first time in several years, the underlying forces are finally aligned toward gradual improvement. Mortgage rates may drift down only slowly, but income growth exceeding house price appreciation will provide a boost to house-buying power — even in a higher-rate world. Affordability won’t snap back overnight, but like a ship finally catching a steady tailwind, it’s now sailing in the right direction.”

Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Zillow:

“Buyers are benefiting from more inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand. Each group should have a bit more breathing room in 2026.”

Why Local Insight Matters More Than Ever

Just remember, while the national outlook is improving, conditions will still be different based on where you live. Some markets will move faster than others. Some will see stronger price growth. Others will remain flat. As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“Market performance will hinge on local economic conditions, making 2026 one of the most geographically divided markets we’ve seen in years.”

That’s why understanding what’s happening where you live or want to move to is key. The national trends set the stage, but local dynamics determine how they play out for you. And that’s why you need to talk with us.

Bottom Line

If you want to walk through what’s expected on Cape and southeastern Massachusetts and what trends you’ll want to take advantage of, let’s connect. You can always find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Fewer Homeowners Are Staying Locked In

Life doesn’t wait for the perfect mortgage rate. Maybe you shouldn’t either.

If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you’ve probably thought: “I’d like to move… but I don’t want to give up my 3% rate.” That’s fair. That rate has been one of your best financial wins – and it can be hard to let go. But here’s what you need to remember…

A great rate won’t make up for a home that no longer works for you. Life changes, and sometimes, your home needs to change with it. And you’re not the only one making that choice.

The Lock-In Effect Is Starting To Ease

Many homeowners have been frozen in place by something the experts call the lock-in effect. That’s when you won’t move because you don’t want to take on a higher rate on your next home loan. But data from Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows the lock-in effect is slowly starting to ease for some people.

The share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% (the yellow in the graph below) is slowly declining as more people move. And while some of the people with a rate over 6% are first-time buyers, the number of homeowners with a rate above 6% (the blue) is rising as others take on higher rates for their next home:

And while it may not seem that dramatic, it’s actually a pretty noteworthy shift. The share of mortgages with a rate above 6% just hit a 10-year-high. That shows more people are getting used to today’s rates as the new normal.

Some banks — like Cape Cod Five — are now offering rates in the 5% range! If you’d like more information, please let us know. We can put you in touch with a top lender at the bank, who we have worked with many times.

Why Are More People Moving Now, if It Means Taking on a Higher Rate?

It’s simple. Sometimes they can’t put their life on pause anymore. Families grow, jobs change, priorities shift, and a house that once fit perfectly may not fit at all anymore – no matter how good their rate was. And that’s okay. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economic Research at Redfin, explains:

“More homeowners are deciding it’s worth moving even if it means giving up a lower mortgage rate. Life doesn’t standstill—people get new jobs, grow their families, downsize after retirement, or simply want to live in a different neighborhood. Those needs are starting to outweigh the financial benefit of clinging to a rock-bottom mortgage rate.”

First American refers to these life motivators as the Five Ds:

Diplomas: People with college degrees typically earn more, and that adds up to more buying power. Maybe you bought your house when you were younger and now that you’ve graduated and have a rising career, you’re ready to move up.
Diapers: You’ve outgrown your space. If you’re welcoming a new baby, your current home might not be cutting it anymore.
Divorce: Whether it’s ending a marriage (or starting one), it can create the need for a new place to call home.
Downsizing: You’re ready to downsize. Maybe the kids have moved out and it’s time to simplify. Smaller house, less maintenance, more freedom.
Death: If you’ve recently lost a loved one, maybe you’ve realized you want to be closer to family. Life’s too short to live far from the people who matter most.

Whatever your reason, here’s what you need to think about. Yes, your low rate is great. But staying put means your life may stay on hold. And maybe that’s not working for you anymore.

According to Realtor.com, nearly 2 in 3 potential sellers have already been thinking about moving for over a year. That’s a long time to press pause on your plans. On your needs. On your family’s goals. So, maybe the question isn’t: “Should I move?”

It’s actually: “How much longer am I willing to stay somewhere that no longer fits my life?”

Bottom Line

Life doesn’t wait for the perfect rate. Maybe you shouldn’t either.

With mortgage rates down from their peak and forecast to dip slightly more in 2026, moving may be more feasible than you think. If you’re ready to see what’s possible in our market, let’s talk. You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

We’re here to help…

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

What You Need to Tell Uncle Bob

Well-meaning family and friends will have “advice” this week about your decision to buy, sell, or both.

This week many of us will be gathering with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving.

If you’re think about buying a home for the first time or selling your current one to upsize, downsize or move to that “someday” neighborhood, well-meaning relatives and friends — like your Uncle Bob who “knows a little something about real estate” — will have their opinions.

So, here’s what you need to know.

1. Mortgage Rates Have Been Coming Down

Mortgage rates are always going to have their ups and downs – that’s just how rates work. Especially with the general economic uncertainty right now, some volatility is to be expected. But, if you zoom out, it’s the larger trend that really matters most.

And overall, rates have been trending down for most of this year (see graph below):

According to Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac:

“On a median-priced home, this could allow a homebuyer to save thousands annually compared to earlier this year, showing that affordability is slowly improving.”

Here’s why that matters for you. This shift changes what you can actually afford. It means lower borrowing costs and more buying power. Take this as an example.

2. More Homeowners Are Ready To Sell

For a while, many homeowners stayed put because they didn’t want to give up their low mortgage rate. That “lock-in effect” kept inventory tight. And while plenty of homeowners are still staying where they are today, the number of rate-locked homeowners is starting to ease as rates come down. Life changes are becoming a bigger part of what’s driving more people to move, and that’s opening up more inventory.

Data from Realtor.com shows just how much the number of homes for sale has grown. And the really interesting part is that the market is approaching levels that haven’t been seen for the past six years (see the blue on the graph below):

That return to more normal inventory levels is a really good thing. It gives buyers more options than they’ve had in years. And it’s helping to bring the market closer to balance.

3. More Buyers Are Re-Entering the Market

And it’s not just sellers making moves. With more options and slightly better affordability, buyers are getting back in the game, too. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) reports purchase applications are up compared to last year, a clear signal that demand is building again (see graph below):

Bottom Line

After several slower-than-normal years, the market is finally starting to turn a corner. Declining mortgage rates, more listings, and growing buyer activity all point to a market gaining real traction.

So, no matter what Uncle Bob may tell you, this really is a good time to take action and make the change you know you need to.

Please enjoy the holiday with family and friends.

…and if you’d like we’ll talk to Uncle Bob!

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Have You Given Up on Owning a Home?

This isn’t 2021. Or even 2023 or 2024.

If you stepped back from your home search over the past few years, you’re not alone.

But the good news today is that things have changed, and you might want to take another look. With more homes to choose from, prices leveling off in many areas, and mortgage rates easing, today’s market is offering something you haven’t had in a while: options.

Experts agree, buyers are in a better spot right now than they’ve been in quite a long time. Here’s what they have to say.

Affordability Is Finally Improving

Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, says 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.”

Mortgage rates have eased from their recent highs, price growth has slowed, and that one-two combo is making homes more affordable than they’ve been in months.

And please don’t get discouraged when you see what the “median sales price” is. The median is the price in the middle. There are just as many homes for sale below that number as above.

There Are More Homes on The Market

Prices are easing because there are more homes on the market. According to the latest from Realtor.com, there are 17% more homes for sale today than there were at this time last year. That means more options, less competition with other buyers, and a chance to find the space that actually works for you.

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“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.”

Take a look at the numbers.

As Yun notes, inventory is up everywhere. Compared to this time last year, every region of the country has more homes on the market than at this time last year (see graph below):

On Cape Cod, there are more homes and condos for sales, too.

So, when you step back and look at the bigger picture, this means more choices for everyone.

And with fewer buyers in the market and more homes for sale, sellers are willing to negotiate to get a deal done.

All of this adds up to a win if you’ve been thinking about buying.

If you stepped away from your search because things felt too competitive, too pricey, you were worried about finding a home, or it was all just too much to process, this could be your moment to take another look.

And if you’re not quite ready to go all in, that’s okay too. You can start by planning ahead. We’re here to work with you. We can help you break down your budget, narrow your search, and make sure you’re prepped and ready when the right home hits the market.

If prices on Cape Cod aren’t for you? Where else would you consider living? We can help you with that, too, as Today Real Estate has realtors throughout New England.

Bottom Line

Let’s talk.

Because this isn’t 2021.

This isn’t even 2023 or 2024.

This is a new market – and you might be surprised by what you could find.

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.