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Today’s Market: What This Means for Buyers

The real estate market in 2025 isn’t the same as it was just a few years ago. From higher interest rates to shifting buyer priorities, today’s housing landscape is full of both challenges and opportunities. If you’re considering buying a home this year, it’s important to understand how these market conditions affect your purchase and how you can position yourself for success.


1. Interest Rates and Affordability

Interest rates are one of the biggest influences on today’s market. Even a small rate increase can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly mortgage payment. For many buyers, this means adjusting expectations—whether that’s considering different neighborhoods, slightly smaller homes, or alternative financing options.


What buyers can do:

  • Get pre-approved early to lock in the best possible rate.

  • Work with a lender who can explore creative financing options (buy-downs, adjustable-rate mortgages, etc.).

  • Keep in mind: rates may feel high compared to the past, but they’re still historically moderate.


2. Inventory Challenges and Opportunities

While some areas still face low housing supply, others are seeing more homes come onto the market as sellers adjust to new realities. This creates opportunities for buyers who are flexible and ready to act quickly.


What buyers can do:

  • Stay on top of new listings and be ready to tour homes right away.

  • Expand your search to up-and-coming neighborhoods that may offer better value.

  • Consider homes that may need light updates—competition is often lower.


3. Evolving Buyer Priorities

Today’s buyers aren’t just looking for square footage. They want homes that match their lifestyle. Remote work has shifted demand toward homes with dedicated office space, while energy efficiency and smart home technology are increasingly at the top of the list.


Hot features in 2025 include:

  • Energy-efficient appliances and solar panels

  • Home offices or flex rooms

  • Outdoor living areas for entertaining

  • Walkable communities with lifestyle amenities


4. Negotiation Power: It’s Shifting

In many markets, the red-hot bidding wars of the past are cooling. Buyers now have more leverage to ask for concessions, negotiate repairs after inspections, or secure closing cost assistance.


What buyers can do:

  • Don’t be afraid to negotiate—especially if a home has been sitting on the market.

  • Use inspection results to your advantage.

  • Partner with an agent who knows how to balance assertiveness with strategy.


5. Long-Term Value Still Matters

Market conditions change, but the long-term benefits of homeownership remain steady. Equity builds over time, and owning a home provides stability that renting can’t match. Even if the short-term feels challenging, today’s buyers who purchase wisely can still benefit from appreciation in the years ahead.


✅ Bottom Line: Today’s market requires buyers to be smart, flexible, and prepared. While higher rates and limited inventory present hurdles, opportunities still exist—especially for those who know what to look for and have the right guidance.


Your NorCal Realtor

M&M Real Estate

BRE Lic# 01938720

Cell: Call/Text 707-330-2324


About Scott Sweeney


SweeneySells

Full Time Realtor 13 Years +

Over 100 Families Served

Top 5% Producing Agent

Buying & Listing Specialist

Contract & Negotiation Ninja

CSUS Business & Marketing Graduate 2006


With quickly serving over a 100 families, Scott Sweeney has become a top 5% producing Realtor in the greater Sacramento area who has helped clients from the Bay Area to South Lake Tahoe. Scott has a Bachelor Of Science in Business Administration, with a concentration in Marketing from CSUS. His education, and extensive background in the hospitality, marketing, and real estate industries, have helped Scott to become one of the leading, and most sought after agents in the area.


Reach out to SweeneySells today, and take the first step towards your real estate goals!

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Top Producer 2016-2023


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