If you’ve been waiting for the right time to enter the Rochester, New York real estate market, this spring could be your opportunity. The number of homes for sale has been steadily increasing, making it the highest it’s been in any of the past five Marches. This surge in inventory is giving buyers more options, better negotiating power, and a less stressful home search.
1. More Homes to Choose From
One of the biggest challenges for homebuyers over the past few years has been limited inventory. However, data from Realtor.com shows that the supply of homes on the market has grown by 27.5% in the last year alone—a welcome change for buyers looking for the perfect home.
With more choices available, buyers are more likely to find a home that checks all their must-have boxes. And the good news doesn’t stop there—experts predict that inventory levels will continue to rise throughout the year.
Beyond just increasing options, more inventory means a more balanced market. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com:
“Buyers will not only have more home options . . . but they are also likely to find somewhat lower asking prices and more time to make decisions – all buyer-friendly factors as we inch closer to the busy homebuying season.”
For buyers who have felt rushed or pressured in previous years, this means a more relaxed and strategic homebuying experience.
2. More Room for Negotiation
Another advantage of rising inventory is that some homes are staying on the market longer—especially those that were initially priced too high. As a result, sellers are increasingly willing to adjust their prices to attract buyers.
Recent data from Realtor.com indicates that price reductions have become more common, bringing today’s market back in line with pre-pandemic trends. For buyers, this means:
- A greater ability to negotiate price
- Potential seller concessions, such as help with closing costs
- More flexibility when requesting repairs or improvements before closing
While not every home will see a price drop, the increasing willingness of sellers to negotiate is giving buyers more leverage than they’ve had in recent years.
Bottom Line
With more homes on the market, increased negotiating power, and extra time to make decisions, this spring offers a promising opportunity for Rochester homebuyers. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to start your search, now may be the perfect time to take action.
Every market is unique, and navigating real estate can be complex. If you’re ready to explore your options or want to learn more about Rochester’s housing market, let’s connect. At High Falls | Sotheby’s International Realty, we’re here to guide you every step of the way and help you find your perfect home with confidence!