In recent years, the real estate market has been characterized by intense competition, with skyrocketing home prices and frequent bidding wars. However, the latest survey suggests that as the nation enters the prime listing season for homes, home sellers are adopting a more realistic attitude. This trend reflects an adjustment in the real estate market and sellers' responsiveness to market changes.
According to the latest survey by Realtor.com® and CensusWide, homeowners have more realistic expectations for future home transactions. Compared to the past, they anticipate fewer instances of intense bidding wars and offers exceeding the asking price. The survey also indicates that homeowners are willing to be more flexible on pricing and deal terms to meet the current market demands.
Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com, notes, "Home sellers have adjusted to market conditions and become more realistic." This realism reflects changes in the market, including sustained increases in home prices and mortgage interest rates, as well as buyers becoming more selective about homes.
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While this may be good news for homebuyers, it's not necessarily bad news for sellers. Jones states, "The real estate market is showing signs of rebalancing, with more homes coming onto the market." Her observations suggest that the market is gradually moving towards a more stable direction.
The survey results show that only a minority of sellers expect to receive multiple offers, while more sellers hope to sell their homes at or above the asking price. This indicates a shift in sellers' expectations towards focusing more on practicalities rather than past fierce competition.
Furthermore, sellers are becoming more sensitive to interest rates. The survey reveals that about 73% of respondents who are soon to be sellers and buyers are reluctant to give up the current low rates but may have to apply for mortgages at higher rates. This indicates that sellers are being influenced by changes in interest rates in their decision-making.
The behavior and decisions of home sellers are influenced not only by market factors but also by personal life circumstances and financial considerations. According to the survey, some sellers choose to sell their properties due to the need to relocate or family changes, while others do so for profit or to address financial needs.