Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time To Restart Your Home Search
You Finally Have More Options for Your Move. If you’ve put your home search on hold over the last couple of years because of tight inventory or rising prices, you’re not alone. Many hopeful buyers took a step back, frustrated by the fast-moving market, bidding wars, and limited selection. But here’s some good news—conditions have shifted in 2025, and this may be your window to find the right home at the right price.
Let’s explore what’s changed and why it could be the perfect time to re-enter the market with a fresh perspective and more opportunities.
The Market Has Evolved Since 2023
During the height of the pandemic housing boom, buyers were dealing with record-low inventory, double-digit price increases, and intense competition. Many found themselves priced out or unable to find homes that matched their needs.
But fast forward to 2025, and we’re seeing a noticeable increase in housing inventory, especially in suburban and mid-sized markets. New construction is on the rise, seller confidence is rebounding, and more homeowners are listing their properties now that interest rate volatility has begun to settle.
According to recent data from Realtor.com and the National Association of REALTORS®:
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Inventory is up over 20% compared to this time last year
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Price growth has stabilized, making more homes attainable
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Sellers are increasingly open to negotiations and buyer-friendly terms
More Homes = More Choices
With more listings hitting the market, buyers now have greater variety in price ranges, locations, and home styles. That’s especially good news if your previous search didn’t turn up many options within your budget.
Here’s how this benefits you:
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You won’t feel pressured to settle for a home that isn’t a great fit
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You can take time to compare properties and make informed decisions
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You may regain negotiating power, especially on homes that sit longer
Whether you’re looking for a starter home, a bigger property for your growing family, or a downsized space for a simpler lifestyle, your chances of finding something that meets your needs are much better now than they were even a year ago.
What About Mortgage Rates?
Yes, rates are still higher than they were in 2021—but they’ve been relatively steady in 2025, and experts forecast modest declines later this year. Many lenders are also offering creative solutions like:
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Rate buydowns
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Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs)
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First-time buyer assistance programs
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Bridge loans for move-up buyers
And here’s the truth: you can always refinance later when rates drop, but you can’t go back in time and buy the home that sold while you were waiting.
Don’t Let Budget Worries Hold You Back
If your budget felt too limited last year, it’s worth reassessing now. Stabilized prices and more listings mean you may find homes that fit both your needs and your finances. Plus, with seller concessions making a comeback, you may be able to negotiate:
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Closing cost assistance
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Home warranties
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Minor repair credits
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Longer closing windows to coordinate a move
All of this can help ease the financial burden and get you into the right home sooner than expected.
How To Restart Your Home Search Strategically
If you’re ready to give your home search another try, here are a few smart steps to take:
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Get Pre-Approved Again: Lending guidelines, interest rates, and your own financial picture may have changed. A current pre-approval strengthens your offer and clarifies your budget.
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Connect with a Local REALTOR™: The right agent knows your market inside and out, has access to listings before they hit public sites, and can guide you toward homes that match your criteria.
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Make a “Wants vs. Needs” List: Markets have changed. You might discover that some features you thought were must-haves aren’t as essential—or that others are now available within reach.
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Use Tech Tools and Alerts: Set up automated listing alerts so you never miss a new opportunity. Tools like 3D tours, walk-through videos, and detailed maps also help streamline your search.
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Stay Flexible, But Focused: Be open to nearby neighborhoods, different layouts, or fixer-uppers if they align with your goals. Your dream home may not look like what you first imagined.
Let’s Talk About What’s Possible Right Now
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. As a local real estate expert, I can help you:
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Explore what’s available within your updated budget
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Pinpoint homes that match your lifestyle and goals
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Negotiate favorable terms and conditions
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Connect with trusted lenders and service providers
Even if you’re just thinking about restarting your home search, let’s talk. A quick conversation could uncover options you hadn’t considered—or give you the clarity and confidence to take the next step.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 housing market is far more balanced than in recent years. With more homes to choose from, less competition in some segments, and sellers willing to negotiate, buyers like you have a fresh opportunity to find the right home.
Don’t let past frustrations keep you from moving forward. The right home might be out there right now—and I’d love to help you find it.
Let’s connect today to see what’s available in our area and how we can make your homeownership goals a reality.
📞 Call or Text: (203) 994-3950
📧 Email: StephenSchappert@gmail.com
