With rising interest rates and fewer home sales, here’s what you need to know about the current market gridlock.

Have you noticed the slowdown in the real estate market lately? Fewer homes are selling, and it seems like the market is stalling. What’s behind the “market gridlock”? And more importantly, how can you still benefit from it while others hesitate? I’ll discuss what’s causing the slowdown and explore some smart strategies to help you stay ahead of the curve:

We’re seeing an unusual situation where many homeowners are locked into ultra-low interest rates—some as low as 2%, 3%, or 4%. Meanwhile, buyers looking to purchase today face interest rates around 6.25%, which means higher monthly payments. This has caused some buyers to either get priced out of the market or hold off on purchasing, hoping that rates will drop or sellers will reduce prices.

“We’re not in a bad market—it’s just a normal market after years of super-heated activity.”

As a result, the market is experiencing gridlock. Sellers hesitate to list their homes because they don’t want to give up their low rates, and buyers are waiting for conditions to improve. In numbers, we’re on track to see about 70,000 home sales this year, which is a significant drop—down about 30,000 homes from just two years ago.

However, homes are still selling, and transactions are happening—it’s just that we’re seeing a return to a more “normal” market, not the super-heated market we experienced when interest rates were historically low. So, while the market might feel slower, it’s more stable.

While the real estate market may have slowed down from its recent frenzy, it’s far from stagnant. By understanding the factors contributing to the gridlock and employing strategic approaches, you can still navigate the market effectively and potentially reap significant benefits. Whether you’re a buyer looking to capitalize on lower prices or a seller seeking to optimize your position, the key is to stay informed, be patient, and make informed decisions. Now, if you’re thinking about buying or selling or know someone who is, don’t hesitate to call me at (602) 738-9943.

Don’t get caught in the gridlock. You can emerge from this market slowdown as a winner with a thoughtful approach.