Which housing markets have become buyer’s markets?
Housing markets in many states have become buyer’s markets as of October 2025.
A buyer’s market occurs when there is a greater number of homes listed than people looking to become homeowners.
When a housing market turns in favor of buyers, potential buyers can expect to see more homes listed for sale than usual. Home prices also tend to decrease to attract buyers, and since the market leans toward buyers, they will have more leverage when negotiating price.
To join and take advantage of a current buyer’s market, apply for a pre-approval and connect with a Loan Officer today!
Which housing markets have seen shifts in buying power?
Compared to the same time last year, the October 2025 housing market saw increases in inventories across much of the United States, with 1,100,001 homes for sale across the nation. This gives buyers more power when looking for a home.
Here are some changes in housing inventory in October 2025 compared to the previous year, as well as number of currently listed homes there.
States that have seen major increases in inventory
All states have seen increases in home inventories from the previous year. The states that have seen the greatest increase in inventories compared to last year are:
- Maryland: 34.5% increase with a current inventory of 15,282.
- North Carolina: 33.6% increase with a current inventory of 44,337.
- Neveda: 27% increase with a current inventory of 13,303.
- Washington: 25.2% increase with a current inventory of 23,583.
- Arizona: 23% increase with a current inventory of 29,642.
States that have seen minor increases in inventory
All states have seen overall increases in inventories compared to October 2024. However, some states have only recently seen slight inventory increases in the past year. A few of the areas that have seen slight increases in home inventories are:
- Illinois: 1.9% increase with a current inventory of 22,603.
- Alaska: 3.4% increase with a current inventory of 1,906.
- New York: 5% increase with a current inventory of 38,654.
- Louisiana: 5.2% increase with a current inventory of 16,683.
- Mississippi: 6.6% increase with a current inventory of 8,896.
States that have seen decreases in inventory
No U.S. states have seen decreases in housing inventories when comparing the end of October 2025 to the same time the previous year. But some markets have seen greater inventory increases than others.
At the moment, housing markets across all 50 states are improving for buyers. Though, with the market always changing, this won’t last forever.
What’s the outlook for housing markets in the U.S. for the next few months?
With the year close to ending, industry specialists are looking at the 2026 housing market positively. While most experts are expecting inventories to see modest rises, they seem to be split on whether housing prices will rise or fall. Still, these experts are expecting 2026 to continue to move in the favor of buyers.
While these experts are knowledgeable about the housing market, no one can tell you exactly what will happen. If you are looking to buy a home, don’t wait. The housing market can always change, so it is smart to take advantage of the market while it favors buyers.
How can I find a home in a hot housing market?
In a hot housing market, entering the market can feel very daunting. With so many homes for sale, it is hard to know where to start. Here are a few tips that can help you get through a hot housing market.
Knowing what you are looking for in a home and surrounding area can help you concentrate on places that meet your needs. Your needs can vary from in-unit washer and dryer to looking for a home in a good school district. Your needs must also include looking for a home within your budget. Focusing on properties that meet your needs will make a hot housing market feel less stressful.
If you have determined your needs and still feel overwhelmed by the number of homes on the market, you can find and talk with a real estate agent. A real estate agent will work with you to find and show you homes that meet your needs within your budget so you don’t have to search through hundreds of properties. Real estate agents could also have access to show properties that are not yet available to the public.
If you are hoping to find a place yourself and know the area you are hoping to buy a home in, you can also start your home search online. Type in your address, city or ZIP code to see all the available homes for purchase in a given area, as well as similar properties to consider.
How can I start the mortgage process?
You can start the mortgage process by connecting with a professional lender. Lenders can help show you the terms of the mortgage you could qualify for, including how much home you will be able to afford. With a pre-approval, you can learn all this before you even start shopping for a new home.
To start the mortgage process and take advantage of a buyer’s market, talk to a lender today!
Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Refinancing your mortgage may increase costs over the term of your loan. Restrictions may apply.
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