Hey everyone! As a long-time broker in this industry, I’ve seen my fair share of market shifts. But something interesting is happening right now that I wanted to share. It seems even with those persistent mortgage rates and home prices, we’re starting to see experienced buyers emerge from the sidelines and get back into the market.
Did you know that after a period where many potential homeowners, including those looking to downsize, relocate for retirement, or make strategic investment moves, were holding back, we’re now seeing increased activity? According to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal, life events continue to be the driving force behind these decisions, regardless of the current economic climate.
The article highlights how real estate professionals are reporting a noticeable uptick in property viewings and mortgage inquiries. While it’s still early days for the spring selling season, these initial indicators suggest a renewed interest from buyers who aren’t willing to put their life plans on hold indefinitely.
What resonates with me is the pragmatic approach many of these buyers are taking. They’ve seen market fluctuations before and understand that trying to perfectly time the bottom is often futile. As one buyer, Aisha Jamil, who recently purchased a home in North Carolina with her husband Nathan Bhatti after navigating the market for several years, astutely observed:
“I think the best time to buy is when you can afford it,”
(Friedman, N., 2025, March 29, The Wall Street Journal, “Home Buyers Start to Come Off Sidelines Even as Rates, Prices Stay Stuck”). This sentiment echoes what I’ve followed for decades.
Of course, the challenges of affordability remain significant, and overall transaction volumes are still below historical peaks. Economic uncertainties also continue to factor into buyer considerations.
However, it’s encouraging to see buyers adapting to the current landscape. Some first-time purchasers are exploring opportunities in more affordable areas outside of city centers, demonstrating a willingness to adjust their expectations to achieve homeownership. Similarly, seasoned buyers are re-evaluating their needs and finding opportunities that align with their long-term goals, as exemplified by Sung Ji in Seattle, who bought after securing a stable job: “The question was, is there something we find that we think is worthwhile to take that leap of faith?” (Friedman, N., 2025, March 29, The Wall Street Journal, “Home Buyers Start to Come Off Sidelines Even as Rates, Prices Stay Stuck”).
Even those who initially hoped for a more favorable market, like Pete and Taylor Thomason, who experienced a purchase fall-through and then rented, are recognizing the limitations of waiting for elusive rate drops. As Pete acknowledged, “Then it’s like, OK, we probably ought to not wait on that,” (Friedman, N., 2025, March 29, The Wall Street Journal, “Home Buyers Start to Come Off Sidelines Even as Rates, Prices Stay Stuck”).
So, what’s the takeaway for us as industry professionals? It reinforces the idea that fundamental life changes will always drive housing demand. While market conditions certainly influence the pace and specifics, people’s need for shelter and their personal circumstances ultimately take precedence.
Did you know that inventory levels are varying significantly across the country? Buyers in the Southeast and Southwest are generally finding more options and thus potentially more negotiating leverage compared to those in the Northeast and Midwest, where supply remains tighter (Friedman, N., 2025, March 29, The Wall Street Journal, “Home Buyers Start to Come Off Sidelines Even as Rates, Prices Stay Stuck”). This regional dynamic is crucial for us to keep in mind when advising our clients.
Ultimately, as Jennifer Newcomer, a more recent buyer in the Philadelphia suburbs, wisely stated:
“You can’t pause your life for what rates are going to do,”
(Friedman, N., 2025, March 29, The Wall Street Journal, “Home Buyers Start to Come Off Sidelines Even as Rates, Prices Stay Stuck”). This sentiment is particularly relevant for those in established stages of life who have specific housing needs or long-term plans.
It’s a nuanced market out there, but the renewed activity we’re seeing suggests a degree of resilience and adaptation among buyers. What are your observations from the field? I’d be interested to hear your perspectives.
