North Florida Real Estate Blog

by CB Isaac Realty

 

April 16, 2025

Do You Think the Housing Market’s About To Crash? Read This First

Lately, it feels like a lot of people have been asking the same question: “Is the housing market about to crash?”

If you’ve been scrolling through social media or watching the news, you might have seen some pretty scary headlines yourself. That’s why it’s no surprise that, according to data from Clever Real Estate, 70% of Americans are worried about a housing crash in 2025.

But before you hit pause on your plans to buy or sell a home, take a deep breath. The truth is: the housing market isn’t about to crash – it’s just shifting. And that shift actually works in your favor.

Today’s Inventory Keeps the Housing Market from Crashing

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, says:

“There’s just generally not enough supply. There are more people than housing inventory. It’s Econ 101.”

Think about it. If there’s a shortage of something – like tickets to a popular concert – prices go up. That’s what’s been happening with homes. We still have a shortage of supply. Too many buyers and not enough homes push prices higher.

Check out the white line for 2025 in the graph below. Even though the number of homes for sale is climbing, data from Realtor.com shows we’re still well below normal levels (shown in gray):

That ongoing low supply is what’s stopping home prices from dropping at the national level. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“… if there’s a shortage, prices simply cannot crash.”

More Homes for Sale Means Price Growth Is Easing

And, as more homes become available, that takes some of the intense upward pressure off home price growth – leading to healthier price appreciation.

So, while prices aren’t falling nationally, growing inventory means they also aren’t rising as fast as they were. What we’re seeing is price moderation (see graph below):

 

And according to Freddie Mac, that moderation should continue through the rest of this year:

“In 2025, we expect the pace of house price appreciation to moderate from the levels seen in 2024, while still maintaining a positive trajectory.”

Put simply, that means prices will continue going up in most areas, just not as quickly. That’s good news for anyone who’s been having trouble finding a home and feeling sticker shock from the rapid price appreciation of the past few years.

But of course, what’s happening with prices and inventory is going to vary by local market. So, talk to your agent to find out what’s happening where you live.

 

Bottom Line

 

Don’t let the talk scare you. Experts agree that a housing market crash is unlikely in 2025. As Business Insider reports:

“. . . economists who study housing market conditions generally do not expect a crash in 2025 or beyond unless the economic outlook changes.”

Instead, we’re heading into a housing market that’s healthier and more balanced, with slower price growth and more opportunity.

Let’s chat about what’s happening in our local market and how you can make the most of it.

Posted in Market Forecast, Market Trend
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April 14, 2025

4 Ways To Make an Offer That Stands Out This Spring

 

Now that spring is here, more and more buyers are jumping back into the market, and competition is heating up.

If you’re serious about landing a home you’ll love, you need more than just a wish list. You need a smart strategy – and that starts with working with a great agent who can help you put together a strong offer.

Here are some top tips your agent will share with you that are helping buyers stand out (and win) in today’s market.

1. Don’t Lowball on Price

It’s tempting to start with a super low offer in an attempt to save money. But in a competitive spring market, that could backfire. If the price isn’t reasonable, you could offend the seller and lose out to a better bid. As NerdWallet says:

“If you really want the property, you should avoid offending the seller. So, be wary of placing a so-called lowball offer. One of the most obvious risks of making a lowball offer is outright rejection. . . As a buyer, you’ll need to find a balance between making a fair offer and running the risk of losing the property.”

Your agent can help you understand local pricing trends and what a fair, yet strong offer looks like this season.

2. Consider an Escalation Clause

If you’re worried about competing bids, an escalation clause can help. If you have an escalation clause and the seller gets another offer, it increases yours up to a certain max amount you set. That way you don’t lose out over a small difference. Investopedia explains it like this:

“An escalation clause is a way to automatically escalate your bid by a certain dollar amount, up to a certain ceiling, to compete with other bids.”

Work with your agent to decide if this tactic fits your situation and budget. Just be sure not to stretch beyond what you’re truly comfortable spending and that the home is likely to appraise for the amount you offer.

If the appraisal comes in lower than your offer, you may have to make up the difference out of pocket. Your agent can help you weigh these risks and determine the best approach for your specific situation.

3. Be Intentional About the Concessions You Ask For

While some concessions (like help with closing costs) might be possible, too many demands could make another buyer’s cleaner offer more attractive. As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) notes:

“There are many factors up for discussion in any real estate transaction—from price to repairs to possession date. A real estate professional who’s representing you will look at the transaction from your perspective, helping you negotiate a purchase agreement that meets your needs . . .”

An agent who knows what’s working for other buyers in your area can help you prioritize the most important asks – and avoid ones that could turn off the seller.

4. Consider a Timeline That Appeals to the Seller

Sometimes, it’s not just about price, it’s about timing. Does the seller need extra time to move out? Or do they want to move as soon as possible? Flexibility here can work in your favor. By adjusting your timeline (if you’re able to), you could stand out against other offers. According to Atlas Van Lines:

“Everyone will have a unique timeline depending on the size of the move, the distance they are moving from or to, and personal preferences. It is important to be flexible and adapt the timeline as needed while ensuring you allocate enough time for each step.”

Your agent can communicate with the seller’s agent to find out what matters most, including timing.

 

Bottom Line

 

Spring is here – and more buyers are entering the market. Let’s work together to make sure your offer stands out.

What’s one thing you want to feel confident about before making an offer this spring?

Posted in General Real Estate Information
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April 11, 2025

A Recession Doesn’t Mean a Housing Crisis

Some Highlights

 

  • There’s a lot of talk about a recession lately and how the odds of one are rising. If you’re wondering what that means for the housing market, here’s what the data tells us.
  • While you may remember the price crash in 2008, that’s not the norm. Looking back all the way to 1980, home prices usually rise and mortgage rates tend to fall.
  • If you have questions about buying or selling a home in today’s market, let’s have a conversation.
Posted in General Real Estate Information, Market Trend
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April 7, 2025

House Hunting Just Got Easier – Here’s Why

If you’ve been frustrated by the lack of homes for sale over the past few years, here’s some good news. You have more options, so it may finally be time to kick off your home search again. As Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist at Redfin, explains:

“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 . . .”

The number of homes for sale has grown compared to last year, and even more options are on the way. While this is typical for the busy spring season, here’s why this is so important right now.

Homeowners are listing their houses at the highest pace we’ve seen in a while.

New Listings Are on the Rise

Over the past few months, the number of new listings, or homes that have recently been put on the market for sale, has been steadily rising (see graph below):

Basically, more people are putting their homes on the market each month – whether they’re moving up, downsizing, or relocating. And this trend is a positive sign for the housing market.

Sellers who may have been on the fence the past few years are starting to jump back in. That’s helping to boost overall inventory and create better opportunities for both buyers and move-up sellers alike.

But it’s not just that the number of fresh options is up month-over-month; there’s also been a jump compared to last year.

According to Realtor.com, new listings in March were 10.2% higher than last year, making it the biggest March for new listings since 2021 (see graph below):

 

For anyone who’s been waiting for more choices, this is exactly what you’ve been hoping for – because more homes coming onto the market means more options and a better shot at finding one that fits your needs.

To make sure you don't miss out on any of the latest listings for your area, lean on a local real estate agent.

 

Bottom Line

 

If you're thinking about making a move this spring, now may be the time to start exploring your options. With more fresh listings hitting the market, you may find a home you love waiting for you.

What features or neighborhoods are at the top of your wish list?

Posted in General Real Estate Information, Market Forecast, Market Trend
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April 4, 2025

Things To Avoid After You Apply for a Mortgage

Some Highlights

  • Once a lender has reviewed your finances as part of the homebuying process, you want to be as consistent as possible. Don’t make any big changes that could affect your mortgage application.
  • Here are a few tips. Don’t change bank accounts or apply for new credit. And this one may surprise you, don’t buy appliances or furniture for your next home yet either.
  • The best tip of all? Before you do anything financial in nature, talk to your lender first.

 

Posted in Buying, General Real Estate Information
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April 2, 2025

Townhomes: A Smart Solution for Today’s First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home in today’s market can feel tough. Between high home prices and mortgage rates, affordability is still a big challenge. And some buyers are making one simple trade-off that’s getting them in the door faster: square footage.

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 35% of buyers are willing to purchase something smaller to make homeownership happen. And one place you can usually find a smaller footprint (and sometimes better affordability) is in townhomes.

Why Townhomes Are Gaining Popularity

Townhomes typically cost less than single-family homes due to their more limited size. And that’s a big plus for today’s budget-conscious buyer. As Realtor.com says:

"In today's market, affordability remains a key priority for homebuyers, making townhomes an attractive option because they are often priced more reasonably than single-family homes. It makes them especially appealing to first-time homebuyers on a tighter budget . . ."

So, if you're trying to buy but feeling stuck because of rising prices, shifting your focus to townhomes could be one way to get into homeownership without maxing out your budget.

Builders Are Responding to the Demand

Builders have seen buyers’ appetite shift to smaller homes, and they’re adjusting to meet the demand. As Joel Berner, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

"Builders are making a concerted effort to provide smaller, more affordable inventory to the market in a way that the existing-home market cannot. Townhomes are a significant portion of that effort."

And the numbers back it up. According to data from Realtor.com, townhomes now make up a bigger share of new construction listings than they did just a couple of years ago (see graph below):

 

That means, if you’re interested in this type of house, you have more choices than you would have had over the last few years. And more options that are potentially more affordable are definitely a good thing. It should make your search for your first home a bit easier.

Is a Townhome Right for You?

If you’ve been focused only on more traditional homes with their own yards, an agent can help you explore whether a townhome could work for you. Who knows, you may find out you love the lifestyle. A lot of people do. As an article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

“Townhomes tend to cost less than single-family detached homes and can be appealing to young professionals who may desire medium-density, walkable neighborhoods.”

That’s because they’re lower maintenance, they can provide a sense of community with other residents, and they have their own unique amenities. Not to mention, they give you the chance to start building wealth through homeownership without the upkeep that comes with having your own detached, single-family home. And that can be great for first-time buyers who are a bit worried about the maintenance anyway.

But they also come with some other considerations, like dealing with noise through shared walls. If you’re a renter right now, maybe you’re used to that already. But these are the types of things you’ll want to think about. And that’s where an agent’s expertise comes in. They’ll help you weigh the pros and cons, so you understand how a townhome fits into your lifestyle and long-term goals before making your decision.

Bottom Line

If you're struggling to find a home within your budget, it may be time to expand your search and consider options you haven’t before, like townhomes. Sometimes, compromising a little bit on space is worth it to get your foot in the door.

What matters most to you — space, location, or budget? Let’s figure out where you can flex to make homeownership happen.

Posted in Buying
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March 31, 2025

Buyers Have More Negotiation Power – Here’s How To Use It

 

You may have heard there are more homes for sale right now. And while that’ll vary depending on the market, it means that overall, things are starting to lean in a more balanced direction. As that happens, some sellers are a bit more open to compromise. Here’s what that means for you.

You may be regaining some negotiating power. That can translate into savings, perks, or even better terms on your purchase – if you know what levers to pull during negotiation.

Why an Agent Is an Essential Part of the Negotiation Process

The complicated part is knowing what is and isn’t on the table. That’s where your agent comes in. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), besides finding the right home, the top thing buyers want from their agent is help negotiating the terms of the sale, followed by negotiating the price.

Here’s why. Agents are skilled negotiators and are trained for moments like this. Since your agent is an expert on the local market, they’ll also know what’s working for other buyers (and what’s not), and that can help you get a better understanding of what’s realistic to ask for.

What's on the Negotiation Table?

Here are some of the most common concessions an agent can help you negotiate:

  • Sale Price: The most obvious concession is the price of the home. And that lever is being pulled more often today. Buyers don’t want to overpay when affordability is already so tight. And sellers who aren’t realistic about their asking price may have to consider adjusting their price.
  • Closing Costs: Closing costs are usually about 2-5% of a home’s purchase price and include fees for things like the appraisal, title insurance, and underwriting of your loan. To offset the cash you have to bring to the table, you can ask the seller to pay for some or all of these expenses. This was the most common concession sellers made in 2024, according to NAR.
  • Home Warranties: If you’re worried about the maintenance costs that may pop up after you get the keys, you can ask the seller to pay for a home warranty. Since this concession usually isn’t terribly expensive for the seller, it can be a good negotiation tool for a buyer. It’s not a big cost for them, but it can be a big perk for you.
  • Home Repairs: Based on the inspection, you're within your rights to ask the seller to make repairs. If the seller doesn’t want to, they could offer to drop the home price or cover some closing costs, so you have more room in your budget to take care of the repairs yourself.
  • Fixtures: Want that washer and dryer to stay? Maybe the stainless-steel fridge, too? In many cases, you can ask for appliances or even furniture to be included in the deal, which will save you money when you move in.
  • Closing Date: The closing date is also negotiable. Based on your timeline, you may also request a faster or extended closing window. Depending on the seller’s needs, this could be great for their situation, too.

Of course, negotiating is a complex process. And not every seller will be willing to offer concessions. Again, lean on your agent for expert advice about what’s realistic to ask for and what could turn sellers off.

Because once you’ve found a home you love, you don’t want to risk losing it. But you also want to get the best terms possible on your purchase – and that’s where an agent can make all the difference.

 

Bottom Line

 

As inventory grows, buyers are finding they have a bit more leverage. And having the right agent by your side – who can help you approach negotiations strategically – is key.

What’s your biggest concern when it comes to negotiating with a seller? Let me know and we’ll put together a solid plan that makes things less stressful.

Posted in Buying, Market Trend
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March 28, 2025

National Housing Trends To Watch

Some Highlights

 

  • At a national level, the housing market has shifted over the past year.
  • There are more homes for sale, price growth has moderated, and homes are taking a little longer to sell.
  • Do you want to know how our area compares? Let’s connect so we can go over what's happening locally and what this means for you.
Posted in General Real Estate Information, Market Forecast, Market Trend
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March 24, 2025

4 Things To Expect from the Spring Housing Market

Spring is in full swing, and the housing market is picking up along with it. And if you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell, here’s the inside scoop on why this spring may be a great time to make your move.

1. There Are More Homes for Sale

After a long stretch of tight inventory, the number of homes for sale is finally improving. According to recent national data from Realtor.com, active listings are up 27.5% compared to this time last year.

Look at the graph below and follow the green line for 2025. You can see, even though inventory levels still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms (shown in gray), that number is higher than it has been going into the spring market over the past few years (see graph below):

Buyers: This means you have more choices, and you can be more selective.

Sellers: With more homes available than in recent years, you’re more likely to find what you’re looking for when you move. And knowing that inventory is still below more normal levels means there will be demand for your home when you sell it, too.

2. Home Price Growth Is Moderating

As inventory grows, the pace of home price growth is slowing down – and that will continue into the spring market. This is because prices are driven by supply and demand. When there are more homes for sale, buyers have more options, so there’s less competition for each house. Rising supply and less buyer competition causes price growth to slow, but it should still remain positive in most markets. As Freddie Mac says:

“In 2025, we expect the pace of house price appreciation to moderate from the levels seen in 2024, while still maintaining a positive trajectory.”

And while prices aren’t dropping at the national level, every market is different. Some areas are seeing stronger price growth, while others are cooling off or even seeing some price declines.

Buyers: The slower pace of growth means prices aren’t rising as quickly as before – and that’s a relief. Any home you buy now is likely to appreciate in value over time, helping you build equity.

Sellers: While prices are still rising, you might need to adjust your expectations. Overpricing your house in a more balanced market could mean it takes longer to sell. Pricing your house competitively is going to be key to attracting offers.

3. Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing

One of the biggest hurdles for buyers over the past couple of years has been high, volatile mortgage rates. But there’s some good news – overall, they’ve stabilized in recent weeks – and have even declined a bit since the beginning of this year. And while that decrease hasn’t been a big drop, stabilizing mortgage rates has helped make buying a home a bit more predictable. According to Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic:

“With the spring homebuying season upon us, the recent improvements in mortgage rates may help invite homebuyers back into the market.”

Buyers: When mortgage rates are more stable, it’s easier to plan ahead because you have a better idea of what your future payment might be. But remember, rates will continue to be volatile. So, lean on your agent and your lender to make sure you know what the latest mortgage rate means for you.

Sellers: Slightly lower rates that are starting to stabilize are encouraging more buyers to move forward with their plans. That’s good for demand when you’re planning to sell your house.

4. More Buyers Are Returning

With more inventory, slowing price growth, and stabilizing mortgage rates, buyers are gaining confidence and coming back into the market. Demand is picking up, and data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) shows an increase in mortgage applications compared to the start of the year (see graph below):

 

Buyers: Acting sooner rather than later could be a smart move before your competition heats up even more.

Sellers: This is great news for you – more buyers mean a better chance of selling your house quickly.

 

Bottom Line

 

Do you have questions about what the spring market means for you? Let’s connect and talk about how to craft your plan this season.

With more homes for sale, slowing price growth, and stabilizing mortgage rates, how will this impact your decision to buy or sell this spring?

Posted in Buying, First Time Home Buyer, General Real Estate Information, Market Forecast
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March 21, 2025

Your Roadmap To Home Ownership

Some Highlights

 

  • Buying a home isn’t just a transaction – it’s a journey. And like any great adventure, having a solid roadmap makes all the difference. ​
  • From building your dream team to getting pre-approved, house hunting, and signing the papers on closing day – each milestone is an achievement.
  • Your journey starts here. Let’s connect so you have help every step along the way.​
Posted in First Time Home Buyer, General Real Estate Information
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