Why More Homeowners Are Choosing to Sell—Even with Today’s Interest Rates
Even though today’s mortgage rates (around 6–7%) might make you nostalgic for your old 3% mortgage, many homeowners are deciding it’s time to sell—and here’s why that's happening now:
1. Life Happens—Change Is Real
Moving isn’t just about rates—it’s about life. Families cope with job relocations, retirement plans, health changes, or empty nests. These major life events often trigger a move, mortgage rate and all.
2. Mortgage‑Rate Lock-In Is Loosening
For a while, homeowners held tight to low-rate mortgages rather than sell and lose their rate. But as rates plateau and inventory grows, more people feel safe enough to list—even at higher rates. The projections below show modest declines from this year. instagram.com+2kiplinger.com+2nypost.com+2investopedia.com+2homesofrehobothbeach.com+2anafesta.net+2.
According to Realtor.com, nearly 2 in 3 potential sellers have been thinking about moving for over a year
3. Sellers Outnumber Buyers—A Shift in the Market
Currently, sellers outnumber buyers by nearly 500,000 homes nationwide—levels we haven’t seen since 2013 finance.yahoo.com+3wsj.com+3nypost.com+3. That means increased choice for buyers, but it also gives sellers a moment to shine before offers soften further.
4. New Construction & Price Cuts Push Listings
Builders and existing-home sellers are reducing prices and offering concessions. In some regions, 30–37% of builders are discounting to spur sales marketwatch.com+1wsj.com+1. That competition encourages hesitant homeowners to list before they’re forced to drop their price too.
5. Market Shifts Favor Prepared Sellers
Can you be strategic? Absolutely. Homes priced right, prepped well, and marketed professionally are still selling strong—before buyers begin seriously negotiating.
🗝️ What This Means for You
Thinking of selling? Now’s the time to act—before the market tilts further in buyers’ favor.
Plan to buy? You'll likely see more options and negotiating power as inventory builds.
Final Takeaway
Yes, mortgage rates are higher than yesterday’s rates—but life changes, market dynamics, and buyer behavior are what’s truly prompting people to sell. If you're curious about how this impacts you, let's connect. I’ll walk you through your local market and your best options.
Talk to Clara Duran Reed about what’s changed, and what kind of move would actually take your life forward. Give her a call at (310) 519-7670