Rooted, Not Rushed: A Summer of Real Estate Strategy

Rooted, Not Rushed: A Summer of Real Estate Strategy

Let’s not sugarcoat it: the market has been unpredictable the past few years. But as we head into June, there’s finally a sense of stability. Inventory is up, home prices are holding steady, and buyers and sellers are both starting to move with a little more clarity.

It’s not a seller’s market. It’s not a buyer’s market. It’s a real market. And that’s a good thing.

At Cedarwood, we’re not here for spin. We’re here to help you read the signs—and make the right move when the moment feels right.

For Buyers: Inventory Is Up, But So Are the Questions

There are more homes on the market than we’ve seen in years. According to Realtor.com, active listings jumped nearly 30% year-over-year as of late May. That’s 81 straight weeks of growing inventory. You finally have options.

But buyers are treading carefully—and we don’t blame them.

• Mortgage rates hovered around 6.89% by the end of May (AP News).
  While affordability is tight, stable rates offer predictability—buyers can finally plan with confidence, instead of guessing week to week.
  
  
• 60% of buyers are unsure it’s a good time to buy (Bank of America via Reuters).
  If you're clear on your goals and pre-approved, this hesitation creates opportunity—less competition means more negotiating power for you.
  
  
• More homes are sitting longer, and about 1 in 5 listings has had a price reduction (Realtor.com).
  Sellers are adjusting to reality, which means buyers can take a breath and make offers that reflect true market value, not hype.

🌲 We’ll help you cut through the noise, avoid the overhyped listings, and spot real value—because the right home is out there.

For Sellers: The Market’s Still Moving—It’s Strategy Season

Inventory is rising—but that doesn’t mean buyers have vanished. In fact, with active listings up nearly 30% year-over-year (Realtor.com, May 24), serious buyers finally have the space to explore—and they’re gravitating toward homes in well-kept neighborhoods, top school districts, and listings that feel intentional, not rushed.

• Price cuts are up—roughly 1 in 5 listings saw a reduction in late May (Realtor.com).
  The takeaway? Pricing is key. Sellers who work with the market, not against it, are still landing clean offers—often faster than expected.
  
  
• Time on market is ticking up, meaning buyers are taking their time—but they’re still making moves when the home is right (Realtor.com, May 17).
  If your home is prepped, well-priced, and tells a compelling story—it will rise to the top of the list.
  
  
• Features that matter—like energy efficiency, outdoor living space, and modern layouts—are driving decisions.
  Today’s buyers are cautious, not careless. But if your home offers real value and thoughtful upgrades, it’s going to stand out in a crowded field.

🌲 We’ll help you tune into what buyers want right now. No fluff, no overpricing—just a smart plan and grounded advice to help your listing shine.

Looking Ahead: A Measured, More Mindful Summer

We’re not headed into a boom or a bust—we’re headed into a season of strategy. Buyers have more options. Sellers need more intention. But when you take the time to plan, this market is full of opportunity.

Thinking about making a move this summer? Let’s talk through what that looks like—for real. No pitches. No pressure. Just local insight, honest answers, and a team that’s here for the long haul.