Paused Your Home Search? Here’s Why 2025 Is the Time to Jump Back In

According to Keeping Current Matters, if you hit pause on your moving plans last year, you weren't alone. The real estate market in 2024 was nothing short of unpredictable, and many potential buyers found themselves stepping back from their home search. According to recent data, around 70% of homebuyers decided to take a break from searching. With high prices, fluctuating mortgage rates, and limited inventory, it's easy to see why so many people found it difficult to find a home that met both their needs and budget.

But guess what? The tides are starting to turn. The Market is shifting in a way that could make now the perfect time to restart your search. Whether you were waiting for the right moment to buy, sell, or upgrade, the conditions today are vastly different from where we stood a year ago. Here's why you might want to hit play on your moving plans again.

1. More Inventory Means More Choices

One of the most frustrating challenges for homebuyers in the past couple of years was the sheer lack of available properties. It felt like every time you found a home you liked, it was already under contract or snapped up by another buyer. If this scenario sounds familiar, you're not alone. But now, there's good news – inventory is on the rise, which means more homes to choose from.

According to Realtor.com, the housing inventory has jumped by 27.5% since the same time last year. This increase gives you more options, whether you're looking for a cozy starter home, a family-friendly property, or a luxury retreat. The extra choices mean less pressure to settle for something that doesn't quite fit your vision.

If you were hesitant to sell your home last year because you weren't sure where you'd move next, now is a great time to reconsider. With more homes available, the risk of getting stuck without a place to go has diminished significantly.

2. Homes Are Staying on the Market Longer

Another factor that made buying a home so stressful last year was how quickly properties were selling. In a market with limited inventory, homes were flying off the shelves, leaving buyers with little time to think through their decisions. This fast pace was especially tough if you were trying to buy and sell at the same time.

But with more homes on the Market today, things are slowing down a bit – and that's actually a good thing. The latest data shows that homes are staying on the Market an average of 8% longer this year compared to 2024. While it may not sound like much, this shift provides much-needed breathing room for buyers.

An extra week or so might not seem like a huge difference, but that small change can make a world of difference when you're making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. This additional time gives you the flexibility to weigh your options, view multiple properties, and ultimately make a more informed decision.

3. Buyers Are Returning to the Market

While inventory is up, it's important to note that demand is still strong. As more buyers return to the Market, homes are still selling well, especially those that are priced competitively. Even though inventory levels are still below pre-pandemic norms by about 23%, well-priced homes are still seeing plenty of interest.

So, if you're considering selling your home, don't let concerns about longer market times deter you. Buyers are out there, and they're actively looking for their next home. The key is to price your property thoughtfully, ensuring that it's attractive in comparison to other listings in your area.

4. Less Pressure to Make a Quick Offer

In the past, the fear of missing out (FOMO) was a driving force for many homebuyers. With so many buyers competing for limited properties, many were pressured to make fast decisions and offer over the asking price just to secure a deal. While this strategy worked for some, it left many buyers feeling rushed and uncertain.

Now that the Market has cooled slightly, there's less pressure to jump at the first property you see. Homes are staying on the Market longer, which gives you the opportunity to take your time and evaluate whether a particular home truly meets your needs. For those looking to move, this slower pace is a welcome change that can help ensure you make a confident, well-thought-out decision.

5. Great Opportunities for Sellers Who Are Ready to Move

If you're a homeowner considering selling your property, the current market conditions still present a great opportunity. Despite the longer time homes have stayed in the Market, well-priced properties are still in demand. And since inventory levels are still lower than pre-pandemic averages, your home can stand out if it's priced right and in good condition.

Whether you're looking to upgrade to a larger home, downsize, or relocate, the growing inventory means you have more options to find your next dream property. And with more time to find that perfect home, there's less pressure to make a hasty decision.

6. Mortgage Rates Are More Predictable

While mortgage rates have fluctuated wildly in recent years, buyers are starting to see some stability. Rates may still be higher than the historic lows we saw in 2020, but they've become more predictable and steady, giving buyers a clearer picture of what to expect.

This predictability means you can plan your finances with more confidence, whether you're securing a new mortgage or refinancing your current loan. For many, this stability could be the final push they need to jump back into the Market after months or even years of uncertainty.

Bottom Line: The Market Is Moving – So Should You

If you paused your moving plans in 2025, now is an excellent time to reconsider. The real estate market is showing positive signs, with more inventory, slower market speeds, and an increase in buyer activity. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply explore your options, this shift in the Market presents a new opportunity to make your move.

For sellers, this is a great time to list your home, as long as you're pricing it thoughtfully. For buyers, the expanded inventory and a bit more breathing room in terms of time can help you make a confident decision without feeling rushed.

Real estate markets go through cycles, and right now, we're in a phase that's offering more flexibility and fewer pressures. If you've been waiting for the right time, that moment may very well be now.

Ready to move? Contact us now, and let's discuss your Real estate goals.

Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com