BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast

Zillow: The Buying Window Could Be Closing in These States

12 snips
Oct 10, 2025
Kara Ng, a Senior Economist at Zillow, reveals critical insights into the housing market's shifting landscape. She discusses how dwindling inventory is reshaping buyer competition and pushing prices up. First-time homebuyers can find hope in Zillow's new down payment assistance program, designed to alleviate financial barriers. Kara highlights the root affordability issue, advocating for increased housing construction to bridge the significant shortfall. With mortgage rates expected to stay steady, the market poses challenges for buyers caught between high rent and mortgage payments.
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INSIGHT

Buyers Have Temporary Leverage

  • Buyers currently have more bargaining power and more time to decide, creating opportunities for selective buyers.
  • But new listings fell sharply in August as sellers pulled back, which could reduce that bargaining power soon.
INSIGHT

Sellers Are Choosing To Wait

  • Sellers who don't need to move are avoiding listing during weak markets, which prevents large price declines.
  • Today’s sellers are financially stronger and can wait, stabilizing prices.
ADVICE

Assess Affordability Now, Don't Speculate

  • Check what you can actually afford at today's prices and mortgage rates before deciding to wait.
  • Prioritize whether a home fits your long-term needs over speculating on future rate or price moves.
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