Like most industries, the real estate industry experiences market fluctuations depending on the time of year. Spring has always been the busiest season for home buying and selling as warm weather encourages open houses, tours, and moving. However, the COVID-19 pandemic flipped the script in 2020 after homeowners were forced to stay put throughout the spring and summer. As a result, researchers expected real estate in 2021 to display a stabilization, but a new survey from Realtor.com® depicts just the opposite. As the buyer demand remains strong, sellers are choosing to list their homes this winter instead of waiting for spring, creating a seller’s surge in the market.
According to George Ratiu, Manager of Economic Research for Realtor.com®,
The pandemic has delayed plans for many Americans, and homeowners looking to move on to the next stage of life are no exception. Recent survey data suggests the majority of prospective sellers are actively preparing to enter the market this winter.
Although this seller’s surge will create a much-needed relief for buyers, those looking to buy should still expect high asking prices and expedited offer deadlines. On the contrary, buyers will be happy to hear that as more homes enter the market, price growth has subdued from the spring’s double-digit levels to a more reasonable 8-9% range.
Reports show that sellers are eager to take advantage of the current market this winter and believe they can make a 35% profit, an 11% increase from the spring. When sellers were asked how the current market will influence their selling tactics,
Of the majority of prospective sellers planning to enter the market in 2022:
The report also outlines common reasons for sellers wanting to move:
If you’re thinking of buying, act quickly as mortgage rates are back on the rise. If you’re thinking of selling, take advantage of the current buyer’s demand, where eager buyers are more likely to accept your terms and conditions for a quicker sale. Want to be connected with a top agent or mortgage professional? Contact HomeHunt today!