Welcome to the February 2025 UPSIDE/DOWNSIDE Real Estate Report! Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the market, this breakdown will help you make informed decisions.
š The Upside for Buyers
Did you know that winter is actually one of the best times to buy a home? Between December and March, home prices tend to be about 15% lower than in peak season (JuneāAugust). That means you could score a great deal right now, especially if you’re flexible with your move-in timeline.
š The Downside for Buyers
The elephant in the room? Interest rates are still sitting around 7%. And while that might not be the news you were hoping for, itās important to remember that rates aren’t expected to drop significantly anytime soon. So what can you do? Creative financing is keyāthink seller buy-downs, rate buy- downs, and adjustable-rate mortgage options to make homeownership more affordable today.
š” The Upside for Sellers
If you’ve taken care of your homeāupdated the kitchen, freshened up the paint, maintained the exterior, and tackled repairsāyou’re in a great position to make a lot of money and receive multiple offers. Move-in-ready homes are in high demand, and buyers are willing to pay a premium for properties that require little to no work. Well-maintained homes are still seeing multiple offers, short days on market, excellent terms for the sellers, and above asking closing prices.
šØ The Downside for Sellers
If you’re still thinking it’s 2021, where you could list anything on the MLS and get a bidding war, think again. Buyers today are much more selective because higher interest rates mean higher monthly payments. If your home has outdated features, deferred maintenance, or needs major cosmetic updates, be prepared to price it aggressively or offer incentives to attract buyers. The reality? Buyers donāt want projects right nowāthey want move-in ready. And if its not move-in ready, expect to have a discounted sales price at the closing table.
Whatās Next?
Real estate is always shifting, and what works best depends on your unique situation. Want to know whatās happening in your neighborhood or the neighborhood you are considering moving into? Head over to sellyourhousewithsteph.com/contact and request a Market Report or Home Equity Report customized to your targeted location. Together we can create a custom strategy for your home buying or selling goals.
Not ready to get started? Review my SELLER MASTERY PROGRAMĀ® and BUYER MASTER PROGRAMĀ® and discover the difference of how I work with clients, and why working with a seasoned and forward-thinking REALTORĀ® is the best move you can make ;). I trademarked my own systems because I saw an antiquated real estate system that needed a modern update to the process of buying and selling homes in the digital age of advertising.
š Iām Steph Saunders with The Foundation Brokerage, and Iāll see you next month for another Upside/Downside Real Estate Report!
