Some buyers are holding back. Average 30-year fixed rates are near 6.75%, home prices are still high, and broader economic changes—including those under a new presidential administration—have many people unsure about whether to act now or wait.
“They’re nervous,” Royster explains. “They don’t know if this is the right time. Once again, we get into the habit of trying to time the market. Should I move? Should I wait?”
The data backs that up. Homes are sitting longer, and the number of listings across the country has reached a five-year high. Prices have fallen in 25 of the 50 largest metro areas, including:
- Charlotte: -1.0%
- Miami: -0.7%
- Los Angeles: -0.64%
- Portland: -0.61%
That signals softening demand—not a crash but a definite slowdown.
Others are choosing to act now
But there’s still a group of buyers ready to move. “I think you have others that are like, ‘Hey, it’s my time. I’m just going to make it my time,’” Royster says. “I’m a believer in the now. If your financial situation allows you to buy, then you should buy.”