Why home condition and seasonality matter more than ever in this market.

The real estate market has been on a roller coaster ride lately, with rapid shifts in pricing, inventory, and buyer demand. The market seems to be slowing down compared to the past few years, and a lot of people have been wondering: Are we headed toward a buyer’s market? The simple answer is no, and here’s why:

1. We are in a balanced market. The market has been intense over the last few years, with homes receiving multiple offers and selling above their asking prices. However, this wasn’t sustainable, and now, we’re in a balanced market. While overall inventory remains low, supply in areas like the Twin Cities metro has increased, and this scarcity is keeping prices stable. In a true buyer’s market, we'd see more price negotiation and seller concessions, but homes are still selling near the asking price.

““In today’s balanced market, a home’s condition is crucial.””

2. Home conditions matter in a balanced market. In today’s balanced market, a home's condition is crucial. Buyers are now more discerning, focusing on cleanliness, staging, and upkeep—unlike the past few years when competition led them to overlook flaws. If you’re selling, make sure your home is in excellent condition, as buyers expect the highest quality possible.

3. Seasonality is key. Even in a balanced market, seasonality impacts real estate, with activity slowing in fall and winter. Now is the perfect time to plan if you’re selling, as many are already preparing for the spring market. Strategic planning can help you stay ahead in the race and succeed when buyer demand heats up after the holidays.

As far as we can tell right now, this balanced market is here to stay. If you’re thinking about selling your home in the next 12 to 18 months, we’d be happy to help you prepare and stay on track as demand picks up. Just give us a call or shoot us an email. We’re here to support you every step of the way.