Why Today’s Buyers Have More Options Than Before

Why Today’s Buyers Have More Options Than Before

Here’s a rephrased version of the article with a more concise, engaging tone while keeping the original structure and content intact:

Buying a Home Is Starting To Feel More Doable—Here’s Why

Let’s face it—buying a home hasn’t exactly been easy lately.

For years, buyers have been up against sky-high prices, limited inventory, and cutthroat bidding wars. But that tide is slowly shifting.

We’re not in a full-on buyer’s market (yet), but more listings, less competition, and increased seller flexibility are creating real opportunity.

Here are 5 trends showing why now might be the right time to dive back into your home search:

1. Sellers Are Stepping Up With Buyer Incentives

Gone are the days when sellers expected offers over asking with zero contingencies.

In early 2025, nearly 44% of sellers offered concessions, like paying closing costs, helping with rate buydowns, or pitching in for repairs (per Redfin). That’s near a record high—and it shows sellers are getting more flexible in today’s market.

If you're making an offer, don’t hesitate to ask for what you need.

2. Down Payments Are Dipping

Redfin also reports that the average down payment dropped slightly year over year—the first decline in two years.

While the average is still around 15% ($62K), more buyers are using FHA or VA loans with lower down payment requirements. Others are choosing more affordable homes to manage monthly expenses.

It’s a promising shift—especially for first-time buyers.

3. Builders Are Cutting Prices and Offering Perks

Looking at new construction? You may be in a strong position to negotiate.

As of June 2025, 37% of homebuilders dropped prices—the highest share since tracking began in 2022. Plus, 62% are offering incentives like mortgage rate buydowns or design upgrades to get deals done.

With more inventory and less buyer urgency, builders are getting creative to close.

4. Inventory Is Climbing

Active listings are finally bouncing back.

Realtor.com reports over 1 million homes now on the market, a 31.5% jump from last year—the most since 2019. More listings mean less pressure, more choice, and a better shot at getting a home that actually fits your needs.

It’s not 2019 yet, but patient buyers are seeing more options than we’ve had in years.

5. Investors Are Starting To Exit

Homes once scooped up by investors are coming back on the market.

In 2024, investors sold 10.8% of all homes, the highest rate on record. Many are offloading properties due to cooling rents or shifting returns—especially in affordable price ranges where many first-time buyers are looking.

That’s less investor competition, and more homes for everyday buyers.

The Bottom Line: Buyers Have More Power Than They Realize

No market is perfect—but right now, buyers are seeing something they haven’t in a while: options, leverage, and a bit more breathing room.

If you paused your search, it might be time to hit play. Want to know what’s possible in your area? Let’s chat—the opportunity you’ve been waiting for could already be out there.