What Every Homeowner Needs To Know In Today’s Shifting Market
The market is changing—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Over the past few years, the housing market was like a rock concert—loud, packed, and full of people elbowing each other for the front row (or the nearest three-bedroom colonial). But now? Things are calming down. And that’s actually good news.
Today’s market is more balanced, more strategic, and more normal. That means whether you're thinking about selling soon or later, understanding what’s happening now will help you play the long game wisely—and profitably.
Here's your update.
1. Inventory’s Up. Buyer Power Is Coming Back.
According to the latest data, the days of “list it and they will come (with a cash offer and zero contingencies)” are over. Inventory is rising, and that’s leveling the playing field for buyers. (see graph below):
But inventory growth is going to vary a lot based on where you live.
But here’s the twist: local trends vary wildly. In areas like Walpole and Norfolk, inventory remains lower than average, keeping demand steady. In Roslindale and West Roxbury, inventory is growing faster, which means buyers may have more leverage.
Here’s what that means for you:
- If inventory is low in your neighborhood: You may still see strong buyer competition.
- If inventory is growing: You’ll need to stand out to get top dollar.
Local tip: In towns like Dedham and Wrentham, smart sellers are getting ahead by prepping homes for market with updated features and strategic pricing.
Bottom line: Work with a local pro who can decode your zip code’s trends.
2. The Right Price Matters More Than Ever
With more homes to choose from, today’s buyers are quick to skip over homes that feel overpriced. That’s why pricing your house right is the secret to selling quickly and for top dollar. That’s a point Realtor.com really drives home:
“ . . . a seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer."
Miss the mark, though, and you may have to backtrack. Today, about 1 in 5 sellers (19.1%) are reducing their asking price to attract buyers (see map below):
Here’s how to avoid being one of those sellers who has to reduce their asking price. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:
“The rising share of price reductions suggests that a lot of sellers are anchored to prices that aren't realistic in today's housing market. Today's sellers would be wise to listen to feedback they are getting from the market.”
Overpricing hurts:
- Your home sits longer on the market
- Price reductions weaken your negotiating power
- It creates doubt in buyers’ minds (“What’s wrong with it?”)
Smart pricing wins:
- Faster sale
- More offers
- Fewer concessions
Pro tip: Your agent has the data to price it right from day one. Trust the comps—and your local expert.
Because if your price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling.
3. Flexibility Wins Negotiations
Gone are the days of buyers waiving inspections and appraisals just to get a deal done. Now, because they have more homes to choose from, buyers are able to ask for things like repairs, credits, and help with closing costs. And data from Redfin shows nearly 44.4% of sellers are willing to negotiate (see graph below):
This isn’t a bad market. It’s just a different one. And it’s in line with more normal years in the housing market, like back in 2019. The savviest sellers are the ones taking advantage of every opportunity to work with buyers and make their house shine.
And it’ll help if you think of concessions as tools, not losses. Use them to bridge gaps, sweeten deals, and get across the finish line. And don’t stress. Since prices went up roughly 55% over the past five years, you’ve got plenty of room to make a concession or two and still come out ahead. And remember: It’s not “giving in”—it’s “getting it done.”
Just be sure to work with your agent to understand which concessions could be the key to sealing the deal.
Local Market Snapshot (July 2025)
- Walpole: Low inventory, buyers ready to act fast
- Dedham: Slight increase in days on market—pricing matters
- West Roxbury: More listings hitting the market—highlight your home’s features
- Roslindale: High buyer interest, but they want move-in ready
- Westwood: High-end buyers are value-conscious and expecting quality
- Norfolk & Wrentham: More outdoor space = more buyer attention this summer
The Takeaway: Know the Market, Play the Market
This isn’t a bad market. It’s just not the old market. Sellers who adapt are the ones walking away with the wins.
Here’s how to do that:
- Price your home based on today’s data—not yesterday’s dreams
- Use flexibility as a tool, not a weakness
- Make your home shine in a sea of listings
Bottom Line
Sellers who are going to succeed in the weeks and months ahead are the ones who understand this market shift and lean into it with the right expectations and the right strategy.
Whether you’re listing next month or next year, the best time to start strategizing is now.
Let’s talk about what’s working in our local area right now – and how we can make those wins work for you whenever you’re ready to make a move.
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