The U.S. housing market is gradually shifting toward buyers as inventory rises and homes linger longer on the market. Real Brokerage’s June survey of over 140 agents revealed that 48% now see buyers as the stronger party, up from 43% in May and 35% in March. Only 26% view the market as favoring sellers, with another 26% labeling it balanced, signaling a slow move away from the seller-dominated pandemic era.

Inventory Levels Give Buyers an Edge

Growing inventory allows buyers to negotiate more effectively, securing inspections, price reductions, or concessions that were previously rare. A Redfin report showed that 14.9% of contracts were canceled in June, the highest ratio for that month since 2017. Such cancellations indicate buyers’ confidence in finding better deals, highlighting a subtle power shift toward purchasers.

Transaction Activity Remains Slow

Despite rising buyer confidence, actual sales remain sluggish. Real’s survey showed 45% of agents recorded fewer transactions year-over-year, while 29% saw flat figures and 23% reported gains. High mortgage rates, economic uncertainty, and affordability pressures continue to dampen activity. Sellers may need to adjust pricing strategies and marketing approaches, while buyers gain opportunities to negotiate more favorable terms.

AI Adoption Among Agents Accelerates

Generative AI is increasingly integrated into real estate workflows. Real found that 58% of its agents use AI daily for tasks such as drafting property descriptions, creating marketing collateral, automating communications, and analyzing market data. CTO Pritesh Damani noted that AI is streamlining productivity, allowing agents to focus on client relationships and strategic decisions. Future tools aim to support every stage of a transaction, from property search to closing.

Looking Ahead

The market’s trajectory will depend on mortgage rates, consumer confidence, and inventory growth. While buyers are gaining leverage in some regions, elevated interest rates and affordability challenges continue to constrain overall activity. Should conditions align, buyers could emerge with stronger negotiating power, while sellers may face a more competitive and exacting environment. Learn more insights from related articles on BizRush.