Buyer Demand Is Still Strong in Today’s Housing Market
If you were concerned that rising mortgage rates caused buyer demand to disappear, the latest data tells a different story. While the housing market has cooled compared to the fast-paced “unicorn” years, it is far from stagnant.
Buyers are still active, and demand remains stronger than what we saw in more typical pre-pandemic markets.
Showing Traffic Remains Elevated
One key indicator of buyer activity is the ShowingTime Showing Index, which tracks how frequently buyers are touring homes.
While showing activity has decreased compared to peak pandemic years, it remains higher than levels seen in 2018 and 2019—considered more “normal” market conditions.
This means buyers are still out there actively searching and touring homes, even in a higher-rate environment.
The graph below uses that index to show buyer activity over the past eight Octobers:
Sellers Are Still Receiving Multiple Offers
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), sellers are currently receiving an average of 2.5 offers per listing.
While this is lower than the intense competition seen during the “unicorn” years, it is still higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Multiple offers indicate that demand continues to outpace supply in many areas, keeping competition alive among buyers.
Homes Priced Right Are Selling Quickly
Strong demand is also reflected in how quickly homes are selling. Properties that are priced appropriately are still moving fast.
According to Zillow:
“Low inventory levels are spurring surprisingly strong competition… demand has remained resilient, and attractive, appropriately priced listings are moving quickly.”
While homes may stay on the market slightly longer than during peak years, they are still selling faster than they did in more traditional market conditions.
What This Means for Sellers
Today’s market offers a balanced opportunity for sellers. While it may not be as frenzied as before, there are still motivated buyers actively looking for homes.
With the right pricing and marketing strategy, sellers can still benefit from strong demand and competitive offers.
Bottom Line
You haven’t missed your chance to sell in a market where buyers are still active, homes are moving quickly, and multiple offers are common.
Thinking about selling? Now is still a great time to make your move. Connect with a real estate professional to get started and position your home for success.
