As the seasons change, the national housing market made its own shift. According to the September REMAX National Housing Report, three notable changes created a more balanced playing field for potential buyers.
Inventory Expanded
Active inventory rose nearly 20% compared to September 2024. While year-over-year growth has been consistent – September marked the 21st consecutive month of annual increases – there was also a 3.1% uptick from August. That’s a welcome reversal from the inventory dips seen in July and August. More homes on the market meant more options for buyers.
Homes Took Longer to Sell
The average days on market increased by nearly 18% – from 41 days last September to 48 days this year. That extra week gave buyers a bit more breathing room. A slower pace can mean less pressure, more time to evaluate options and greater negotiating power.
Prices and Paid Prices Shifted
The median sales price rose 2.1% year-over-year, reaching $439,000 – up $9,000 from last September. New listing prices mirrored that increase, climbing from $450,000 to $460,000. Sellers remained confident but not overly aggressive, as reflected in the list-to-close price ratio.
That ratio – calculated by dividing the final sales price by the list price – dipped 0.4 percentage points from 99% last year to 98% this September. In short, buyers were able to negotiate prices or receive more concessions.
What it Means
REMAX CEO Erik Carlson says savvy buyers are leaning on their agents for strategic guidance – and it’s paying off.
“Many [buyers] are still successfully negotiating favorable prices. At the same time, sellers can be confident in the continued demand for homes. As inventory grows and market dynamics shift, the months ahead may bring more balance to the market.”
For buyers ready to make a move, REMAX agents are ready to help. Connect with a REMAX agent today.
Written by REMAX News
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