How to Stay Ahead in a Shifting Real Estate Market

Let’s clear something up: the housing market is shifting—back toward balance. And while that might not sound exciting, it’s actually great news.

Why? Because what we’ve experienced over the past few years wasn’t typical. That extreme seller’s market set some unrealistic expectations. What’s happening now is a return to a healthier, more sustainable market.

If you’re thinking about selling—whether soon or sometime down the road—there’s still real opportunity. The key is staying informed and having a strategy that fits today’s conditions.

Here’s the latest:

1. Inventory is rising. And with that, buyers are gaining back some leverage.

Take a look at what the newest data shows about homes for sale (see graph below):

Inventory levels aren’t the same everywhere — and that matters.

Depending on your local market, the story can look very different. If you’re in an area where listings are back to more typical levels, buyers may have more options — and more negotiating power than you’d expect. That doesn’t mean they call all the shots, but it does mean your home needs to shine.

On the flip side, if inventory is still tight in your neighborhood, there’s a good chance your home will attract strong interest and possibly multiple offers.

Wherever you live, the smart move is working with a real estate expert who understands your local market and can help you tailor your strategy.

2. Today’s Market Demands the Right Price.

With more homes hitting the market, buyers are being more selective — and quick to pass on properties they feel are overpriced. That’s why nailing your pricing from the start is more important than ever if you want a fast, top-dollar sale. As Realtor.com puts it:

“A seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer.”

But miss the mark, and you might have to lower your price later. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 sellers (19.1%) are already doing just that to stay competitive (see map below).

Want to avoid slashing your asking price later? Start with a smarter strategy upfront. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com:

“The growing number of price cuts signals that many sellers are still holding onto expectations that don’t reflect today’s market realities. Sellers need to pay attention to the feedback they’re getting.”

So, how do you get that kind of market insight? You rely on a local agent who knows what’s moving and why. The right pricing strategy from the start can make all the difference — because in today’s market, if your price doesn’t spark interest, your home may sit.

3. In This Market, Flexibility Is a Winning Strategy

Buyers aren’t rushing into deals like they were during the peak frenzy. With more inventory to choose from, they’re asking for repairs, credits, and help with closing costs — and many sellers are saying yes. In fact, Redfin reports that nearly 44.4% of sellers are negotiating with buyers (see graph below). The takeaway? If you want to close the deal, being open to reasonable terms can be the edge that gets your home sold.

This isn’t a bad market — it’s just a more balanced one. In fact, it’s starting to look a lot more like the pre-pandemic market of 2019. The most successful sellers today are the ones leaning into the shift — working with buyers, standing out from the competition, and using strategy to their advantage.

Think of concessions not as losses, but as powerful tools. They can help you bridge the gap, move negotiations forward, and ultimately close the deal. And with home values up roughly 55% over the past five years, most sellers have room to offer a little give without losing out.

The key? Partner with an experienced agent who knows which levers to pull — and when — to get your home sold on your terms.

Bottom Line

The sellers who will thrive in the coming weeks and months are the ones who truly understand how the market is shifting — and adjust their approach accordingly. It’s not just about listing your home; it’s about entering the market with the right expectations and a smart, flexible strategy that aligns with today’s reality.

When you're ready to take that next step, connect with a local real estate expert. They can walk you through what’s working right now in your specific area — from pricing strategies to negotiation tactics — and show you how to position your home for success. With the right guidance, you won’t just list your home — you’ll sell it with confidence.