Mid-Year Market Check

Despite the challenges we’ve seen in recent years

, the real estate market is showing some encouraging trends as we move through the second half of 2025. Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just staying informed, here are

positive shifts happening in the housing market

right now that are worth paying attention to.

Rising Inventory = More Options for Buyers

Active listings have increased significantly compared to last year, giving buyers more homes to choose from and reducing the frenzy of bidding wars. This shift is creating a more balanced market with less pressure to rush decisions.

Sellers Still Benefit from Strong Home Values

Home prices remain at or near record highs in many areas, and are expected to grow modestly (~1–2%) through the end of 2025. Sellers who price competitively can still net solid returns, especially if they bought before 2020.

Buyers Have More Negotiating Power

With homes staying on the market longer, buyers are gaining leverage. That means more room for negotiation, plus perks like seller-paid closing costs, mortgage rate buydowns, and inspection flexibility

Mortgage Rates May Dip Slightly by Late 2025

While rates remain in the 6.5–6.8% range now, some experts predict modest declines toward 6.3–6.5% by year-end. Even small rate drops can improve affordability and boost buyer confidence going into 2026.

More Realistic Pricing & Fewer Overheated Markets

After years of unsustainable price surges, many markets are stabilizing, leading to fairer prices and better long-term opportunities for both investors and first-time buyers. This also reduces the risk of a housing bubble.

While the market may not be perfect, these positive trends are a sign that opportunities still exist for both buyers and sellers