If you've been paying attention to real estate headlines lately, you've probably seen a lot of talk about rising inventory, shifting market conditions, and concerns that the housing market may be slowing down.
For homeowners considering selling, it's understandable to wonder whether now is still a good time to list your home.
The answer? In most markets and price ranges, there's still no reason to panic.
One of the most important factors supporting today's housing market is something many people overlook: we're still dealing with a long-term housing shortage.
Take a look at the data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau regarding homes built in the United States by decade.
The numbers tell a compelling story.
While the U.S. consistently built millions of homes during each decade from the 1950s through the 2000s, housing construction dramatically slowed during the 2010-2019 decade. In fact, the number of homes built during that ten-year period was less than half the average construction volume seen during the previous six decades.
And it certainly wasn't because the population suddenly shrank by 50%.
Quite the opposite.
America continued to grow, households continued to form, and housing demand continued to increase. The result is a supply deficit that still exists today.
Demand Hasn't Disappeared
What we're experiencing today isn't a lack of demand—it's largely a temporary suppression of demand.
Higher interest rates have caused some buyers to pause their home search or adjust their expectations. But many of those buyers haven't disappeared. They're waiting, watching, and preparing for the right opportunity.
That's an important distinction.
When affordability improves, rates decline, or buyers become more comfortable with current market conditions, many of those sidelined buyers are expected to re-enter the market.
Sellers Still Have an Opportunity
While today's market may not feel like the frenzied seller's market of 2021 and 2022, well-priced homes in desirable areas continue to attract serious buyers.
The underlying housing shortage remains in place, providing support for home values and helping prevent an oversupply situation in many markets.
That's why most sellers shouldn't let alarming headlines drive their decisions.
Don't Miss Peak Selling Season
If you've been considering selling your home, waiting until September to determine whether it's "safe" may not be the best strategy.
We're currently moving through one of the strongest selling periods of the year. Buyer activity is typically highest during the summer months, and delaying your listing could mean missing a valuable window of opportunity.
If a move is on your horizon, now may be the time to connect with a trusted real estate professional, prepare your home for market, and take advantage of seasonal buyer demand before activity begins to cool.
The housing market may be changing, but the long-term supply shortage remains very real—and that's one reason sellers can still be optimistic about their opportunities today.
Want to Learn More?
Jay Atterstrom
📧 [email protected]
📞 (214) 377-0033