Are We in a Buyer's Market? Here's What That Means for You

What does it mean to be in a buyer’s market, and how can you tell if now is the right time to buy or sell a home?

A buyer’s market means the advantage shifts to buyers — often bringing more room to negotiate, lower prices, and greater inventory. But how do you know if your local market is leaning that way? And what does that mean for your plans? Let’s take a look at what’s happening now across the Piedmont Triad and what it means for your next move.

What Is a Buyer’s Market, Exactly?

In real estate, the term “buyer’s market” refers to a market where buyers hold more negotiating power than sellers. This usually happens when the number of homes for sale outpaces the number of active buyers. As a result, sellers may have to reduce prices or offer incentives to attract interest.

This environment can create major opportunities — especially if you're looking to buy with more control over price, contingencies, or closing timelines.

The Key Indicator: Months of Inventory (MOI)

The simplest way to understand whether we’re in a buyer’s market is by looking at a key metric called Months of Inventory (MOI). This measures how long it would take to sell all the homes currently on the market if no new listings were added.

• Less than 5 months = Seller’s market

• 5 to 7 months = Balanced market

• More than 7 months = Buyer’s market

Right now, many communities in the Piedmont Triad region are hovering around 4 months of inventory — which still leans seller-friendly but shows signs of shifting. Compare that to just two years ago, when MOI was closer to 2 months, and it’s clear: buyers are regaining some leverage.

Luxury price points in particular are seeing double-digit months of inventory in parts of the Carolinas and beyond — signaling stronger opportunities for affluent buyers.

What’s Driving the Change in Market Conditions?

Here’s what’s impacting real estate activity right now:

• Interest rates have dipped, drawing more buyers back into the market

• Inventory has increased, especially in mid-range and upper-tier listings

• Demand remains steady, but the competition isn’t as cutthroat as in recent years

This creates a more balanced market overall — still competitive in certain price points, but with more options and breathing room for buyers.

What If You’re Selling?

You can still win in this market — but the strategy matters more than ever. Homes that are well-priced, staged thoughtfully, and marketed strategically are continuing to move. But it’s smart to adjust your expectations and talk with your REALTOR® about what’s happening in your neighborhood, not just the broader region.

If you're thinking about selling, make sure your pricing reflects local data — not just headlines.

Want to Know If Your Neighborhood Is in a Buyer’s Market?

Local data is key. National headlines don’t always reflect what’s happening on your street.

I encourage you to check out my latest market updates and resources on my blog:
👉 Visit DeliaKnight.com/blog

I break down real estate trends for communities across the Piedmont Triad — so you can make confident, data-driven decisions whether you're buying, selling, or just watching the market.