Buyers aren’t waiting—they’re adapting. Here’s how to leverage today’s trends and timing to your advantage.
If you’ve been waiting for signs of movement in the market, some significant shifts are happening this summer that you should know about. Whether you’re a buyer or or seller, or simply watching from the sidelines, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions when the time is right.
The market is steady but not slow. This season feels different because it’s not moving at lightning speed, but it’s not stalled either. Homes are coming on the market, creating a brief surge of activity, and then the pace slows down until the next new listing appears. This pattern keeps repeating. The reason this is happening is because inventory is still low. Serious buyers are watching and waiting, but it’s not the intense competition we saw four or five years ago. People are ready to act, but they’re being more selective.
Shadow inventory is building behind the scenes. There’s also a growing number of homes that haven’t hit the market yet. These are what we refer to as “shadow inventory.” These sellers have already taken care of the prep work. Photos are done. Disclosures are signed. Everything is ready to go. The only thing holding them back is that they haven’t found a home to move into yet.
As soon as they do, their property will be listed, and that’s when we see those bursts of market activity. It’s happening more often this summer, and it’s keeping the market in motion even if inventory looks tight from the outside.
“The summer market is steady, driven by low inventory, hidden listings, and buyers who’ve adjusted to today’s interest rates.”
Some of these homes are also being shared through internal networks that aren’t available to the public or listed on the MLS. If you’re looking for off-market opportunities, this can be a valuable advantage.
Buyers have adjusted to higher rates. Interest rates are still higher than they were a few years ago, but the mindset has changed. Many buyers are no longer waiting for rates to drop. They’ve accepted the current conditions and are moving forward. Their focus has shifted to monthly payments and long-term affordability. First-time buyers are entering the market with realistic expectations. They’re not comparing today’s rates to past ones. They’re reviewing their budgets and making decisions based on what works now.
Even some homeowners with very low rates—around 2.5% to 3.5%—are deciding to sell because of major life changes. Whether it’s growing families, job moves, or downsizing, they’re using the equity they’ve built and choosing to move ahead.
The market is active, but timing and strategy matter more than ever. If you’re thinking about making a move or want access to homes before they’re listed, feel free to call or text us at 952-212-3597 or email ChadandSara@edinarealty.com. We’ll help you by discussing your goals, timing, and what’s possible in today’s market.
