Real Estate Reality Check: Housing in 2025

Send us Fan MailThe real estate market has hit its lowest point since 1995, with existing home sales dipping to around 4 million in 2024, creating uncertainty for potential buyers and sellers about what to expect in the coming year. We analyze insights from real estate broker Stephanie Birkin to help you understand mortgage rate trends, inventory challenges, and practical strategies for navigating the 2025 housing market with confidence.• Mortgage rates expected to remain in the high 6% range with some easing in 2025, but don't anticipate a return to sub-4% rates• Watch the 10-year Treasury yield, not just Fed announcements, to better predict mortgage rate movements• Limited inventory persists due to homeowners locked into low rates, creating a real estate standoff with gradual improvement expected• Buyers should complete pre-approval now, explore down payment assistance programs, and clearly define needs versus wants• Demographic shifts show more cash buyers, older first-time buyers (median age 38), and more single female buyers entering the market• Sellers should list in late February/early March and follow the PLANS framework: Price strategically, Light up your home, Ask an agent, Negotiate creatively, Stage for successVisit flowersandassociatesboking.com/book to learn about our sponsor and check out Robert Flowers' latest book, "From Setback to Comeback: Finding your Resiliency in Tough Times."