If you put your home search on pause last year, you were not alone. In fact, nearly 70% of buyers stopped their search in 2024, and it is easy to understand why. With limited inventory, rising home prices, and mortgage rates that felt like a rollercoaster ride, buying a home became more challenging—and frustrating—than many expected.
But the good news? The market is starting to shift, and that could mean new opportunities if you are ready to jump back in. Here is why it might be the perfect time to hit "play" on your moving plans.
More Homes for Sale Means More Options for You
One of the biggest frustrations for buyers over the past couple of years was the lack of inventory. Even if you were financially ready, there just were not enough homes available to find one that fit your needs and your budget. Now that is changing.
According to Realtor.com, inventory is up 27.5% compared to this time last year. That means more choices, more variety, and a better shot at finding a home that checks the right boxes.
And if you are also selling a home, this is a double win. Many homeowners held off on listing because they were not sure where they would go next. With more homes on the market now, that fear of “selling with nowhere to go” is easing up.
Homes Are Sitting on the Market a Bit Longer
Remember when homes were selling so fast it felt like they disappeared the moment they were listed? That kind of market made it hard for buyers to make thoughtful decisions—especially if you had to sell and buy at the same time.
Fortunately, homes are now spending more time on the market, which gives buyers a little breathing room.
Recent data shows the average time on market has increased by about 8% compared to last year—roughly a week longer. That might not sound like much, but in today’s real estate world, it is meaningful. It means less pressure, more flexibility, and more time to make confident choices.
As Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com, explains: “There are more homes for sale than in the last few years, which means the market pace is a bit more manageable—with longer days on market—and many sellers are more flexible… Though buyers face still-high housing costs, they may find a bit more give in the market, which could give them more time to decide, even in the busy spring and summer months.”
What About Selling Your Current Home?
It is a fair question—if homes are sitting longer, does that mean yours will not sell? Not necessarily. While inventory is rising, it is still about 23% below pre-pandemic levels. That means well-priced, well-presented homes are still moving, especially now that more buyers are coming back to the market.
You might not sell overnight, but you also will not be competing in an oversaturated market. In Conclusion If you hit pause on your moving plans, now may be the perfect time to revisit them.
With more homes to choose from and more time to make decisions, buyers like you are getting a second chance at making a move—without all the pressure of last year’s market. Whether you are thinking about buying, selling, or both, contact Scott and the Smolen Team to talk through your options. We are here to help you navigate this changing market and get your plans moving again.
