7% Interest Rates for January 2025. I’m not going to say I told you so…
Hi there! I’m Steph Saunders with the Key Team at Compass, bringing you the first Upside/Downside Real Estate Report of the year! Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping tabs on the market to sound smarter at parties, I’ve got the insights you need to navigate today’s real estate landscape with confidence.
The Upside for Buyers
Opportunity is knocking for buyers in January 2025, but are you ready to answer? The much-anticipated post-election interest rate drop hasn’t materialized, which means 7% interest rates are sticking around—for now. The silver lining? Many would-be buyers are waiting on the sidelines, giving you a unique chance to beat the crowds from all the pent-up demand for housing, and secure a home with far less competition.
Fewer buyers in the market can mean better negotiating power for you. It’s all about leverage! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for your next bigger or smaller home, this monoffers a real shot at success before the spring frenzy kicks in.
The Downside for Buyers
Here’s the catch: inventory is still tight. The new year didn’t magically deliver a surge of new homes to the market, and we’re starting the year with slim pickings. If you’re serious about buying, now’s the time to lean on an experienced real estate agent (like me!) to uncover off-market opportunities or guide you in making a winning offer.
Looking for personalized strategies to find the right home? Check out my Buyer Mastery Program®—designed to help you navigate this tricky market and secure your dream property by not missing out on opportunities and not over-paying.
The Upside for Sellers
If you’re thinking about selling, your moment is now. With so many would-be-sellers holding back—either unsure of where to move or waiting for spring to showcase their blooming gardens—your home could be the only one in its class available on the market.
This inventory scarcity means more attention and demand for your property, which often translates into higher offers and better terms. (As long as you don’t over-price it)! It’s a great time to leverage the market’s low inventory to your advantage!
The Downside for Sellers
The biggest hurdle for many sellers? Not knowing where to go next. If this resonates with you, here’s my advice: list your home anyway.
Getting your home under contract gives you a leg up when it’s time to make an offer on your next place. If you have a home sale contingency, or need to close on your current home first to buy the next one, you’ll have more leverage—and potentially, more cash in hand—to negotiate from a position of strength. Yes, moving twice isn’t ideal, but think of it as a short-term inconvenience for a long-term gain.
Your Next Steps: Let’s Strategize!
Navigating the current real estate market can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. My Seller Mastery Program® and Buyer Mastery Program® are tailored to help you succeed—no matter the challenges of the current market, and let’s face it, there will never be a market without hurdles!
- Sellers: Learn how to price, market, and position your home to sell quickly and for top dollar.
- Buyers: Discover how to find the right home, negotiate effectively, and beat out the competition—even in a low-inventory market.
Final Thoughts
January 2025 might not be the magical market reset some predicted, but it’s still full of opportunities for savvy buyers and sellers. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, upgrade to a larger space, or downsize (aka ‘right-size’), now’s the time to act.
For more insights, head over to my website at www.sellyourhousewithsteph.com and check out my latest blog posts and programs. New Posts DAILY!
Remember, your success is my priority. Let’s make 2025 the year you achieve your real estate goals!
See you next month for another edition of the Upside/Downside Real Estate Report!
– Steph Saunders
Key Team at Compass
“Your partner in navigating the real estate journey.”
