5 Things You Need to Know About the 2025 Spring Housing Market

The spring housing market is officially here! And if you’re thinking about buying or selling, chances are you’ve already heard allll the predictions, opinions, and “expert” advice floating around. Some of it’s helpful… and some of it? Well, not so much.

So, what’s the real scoop? Realtor.com’s Chief Economist (and total powerhouse), Danielle Hale, recently shared some advice with her own neighbor about buying a home—and trust me, it’s advice everyone should hear this spring.

Here’s the inside info you actually need about the 2025 spring market, straight from Zillow data and Danielle Hale herself!

✨ 1. Trying to Time the Market? That’s a Risky Game!
We all hear about the “perfect” time to buy or sell—like Zillow’s latest finding that homes listed in late May sell for $5,600 more on average. Sounds tempting, right? But here’s what they don’t always tell you:

  • In 2022, March was the golden month to sell.

  • In 2023, it was June.

  • In 2025? No one knows for sure!

Why? Because mortgage rates, local demand, and inventory play way bigger roles than the calendar. Danielle Hale even told her neighbor (and now you!):

“There are always reasons to be uncertain in the housing market. My advice… is to keep your eyes open and when you see the home that is a good fit, go for it.”

Bottom line? Trying to outsmart the market is like trying to time the stock market. It’s stressful, unpredictable, and often misses the mark.

✨ 2. Serious Buyers Aren’t Waiting Around
There’s this little myth that buyers wait until late spring to get serious. Spoiler alert: serious buyers are already out there shopping.

With mortgage rates doing their usual up-and-down dance, buyers are jumping in (and sometimes out) of the market all year long. They’re not waiting for May flowers… they’re waiting for the right opportunity.

So, if you’re thinking about selling? Don’t hold off just because you think “better” buyers are coming. The perfect buyer could be scrolling for your home right now.

✨ 3. Mortgage Rates Matter More Than the Season
This is the big wildcard. If rates drop, buyers rush in—no matter the month! If rates go up, things cool off—even in the so-called “busy season.”

Danielle’s advice? Stop stressing about short-term rate jumps and think about your long-term goals. If you plan to stay in your new home for 5+ years, trying to time things perfectly just adds unnecessary worry.

For sellers, this means: If buyers sense an opportunity, they’ll jump—whether it’s March, May, or July. It’s not about when you list… it’s about how you show up on the market.

✨ 4. Local Insights Are Everything
This is where buyers and sellers really get tripped up. National headlines are fun to read, but they don’t tell you what’s happening in your neighborhood.

Zillow found that the “best time” to sell varies wildly by city:

  • In San Diego and Austin, sellers are hopping as early as March.

  • In Phoenix, things heat up in November.

  • In Orlando? The seasonal bump is barely there!

Inventory’s rising in some places and super tight in others. The Northeast is still playing catch-up, while the South and West are seeing more new construction and options for buyers.

Danielle summed it up perfectly:

“You want to look at national numbers to understand the broader context, but what really matters is what’s happening in your market.”

🚨 [CUSTOMIZE THIS PART WITH YOUR LOCAL STATS!]
What’s happening in [Your Market]? Here’s a quick peek:

  • Inventory: Up/down X% compared to last year

  • Median Sale Price: Up/down X% (what this means for you!)

  • Days on Market: Homes are selling in X days on average

Curious about your neighborhood? Let’s grab coffee or hop on a call—happy to dive deeper with you! ☕💬

✨ 5. Your Listing Strategy Is Everything
It’s not just about when you list—it’s about how you list.

Zillow’s research says homes listed on the MLS sell for 1.5% more than off-market listings. Add high-quality photos, 3D tours, and interactive floor plans, and you could see an extra 2%!

Homes with standout features (hello, remodeled kitchens, dreamy outdoor spaces, and bluestone patios) can score thousands more in offers.

The takeaway? Maximize your exposure and show off what makes your home special, and you’ll get top dollar—no matter the month.

🌷 Final Thoughts 🌷
Here’s what Zillow and Danielle Hale want you to remember:
Don’t sit around waiting for the “perfect” moment.

👉 Buyers: If you find the right home that fits your budget and future plans, go for it!
👉 Sellers: If you’re ready to list, focus on strategy, not just timing.

The market won’t wait—and the best opportunities go to those who are ready to make a move. Let’s get you set up for success!

Let me know if you want to add your local stats or tweak anything!

jennifer Sloan