If you’ve been frustrated by the shortage of homes for sale over the past few years, there’s good news: inventory is improving and that means more opportunities for buyers. Below we expand on the key reasons this moment matters — and how to take advantage.

“Now is the best time to buy in the last two years. Mortgage rates are comparable to what they were two years ago, and prices remain high. However, there is significantly more inventory . . .” — Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist at Redfin.

In recent months, more homeowners have been deciding to put their houses on the market. That uptick in new listings reflects several dynamics: owners who postponed moves earlier are finally listing, some sellers are relocating for work or family reasons, and others are taking advantage of better timing to trade up or downsize. The steady inflow of fresh properties gives buyers a wider selection and reduces the pressure of competing against multiple offers.

Practically, this means you’ll see a broader variety of styles, sizes and price points — not just the same limited set of options. For buyers, that translates into better matches for personal needs (neighborhood, schools, layout) and more negotiating room on price and terms.

This isn’t only a short-term blip. New listings are materially higher than a year ago: Realtor.com reported that March new listings were 10.2% above last year, the strongest March for new inventory since 2021. That year-over-year increase signals a real shift in market dynamics — more supply is arriving consistently, not just a one-off week of activity.

Why that matters: when inventory rises at scale, buyers gain leverage. Sellers are likelier to make concessions, and you can be more selective without feeling rushed. In markets where the influx is strongest, you may also see more seasonal promotions from builders or sellers offering help with closing costs or flexible move-in dates.

With more homes hitting the market, execution matters. Here are practical steps to stay ahead:

Get pre-approved: Sellers and listing agents prioritize buyers who can close. A pre-approval speeds offers and strengthens your position.
Set instant alerts: Work with an agent or use listing platforms to get immediate notifications for new homes that match your criteria. Early viewing often makes the difference.
Be ready to move fast: Have your documents organized and decide in advance what trade-offs you can accept (e.g., location vs. square footage).
Work with a local agent: An agent who knows your neighborhood will spot good opportunities, interpret local pricing nuances, and act quickly on your behalf.
Schedule flexible showings: Availability to tour homes at short notice increases your chance to see the right one before it gets multiple offers.

Bottom line

If you’ve been waiting for more choice, now’s a strong moment to return to the search. More new listings mean a better chance of finding a home that fits your needs — and more negotiating power once you do.

✅ Contact us today and we’ll set up a tailored search so you don’t miss the right home.