Market Spotlight #198 | Timing the Market is Hard

This week’s numbers are a real‑world reminder that trying to perfectly time the housing market is almost impossible. Mortgage rates are holding steady around 6.2%, down from last year’s levels, yet weather disruptions pushed both purchase applications and pending sales lower. Even with that temporary slowdown, demand remains stronger than a year ago, and buyers are still responding to improved affordability when conditions allow.

On the supply side, inventory and new listings both slipped after recent storms, and the pace of year‑over‑year inventory growth has slowed to under 9%. Price reductions have fallen as well, now just above 32%, which suggests sellers feel slightly less pressure than they did during the peak of last year’s supply buildup. In other words, the easy inventory gains are behind us, and today’s buyers may have more competition ahead than they realize.

For agents and loan officers, this is the perfect week to lean into the “Cost of Waiting” conversation. On a typical $450,000 home, delaying a purchase can mean tens of thousands of dollars in lost equity—even if mortgage rates tick down later. With rates in a stable, improved range and inventory still better than in prior years, the real advantage goes to buyers who focus on clarity and long‑term math rather than chasing headlines. Helping clients see that difference is where your expertise becomes invaluable.