Why Buyers Are Finally in Control Again

By Nick Waldner

Nick started and leads the #1 KW Team in all of Maryland and DC, selling over 400 homes a year! With 20+ years in the industry, he is the leading expert in Maryland!

Do you want to buy a home, but you’re scared of overpaying? I have good news: In 2025, buyers are finally calling the shots. If you’ve been wondering whether you’ll have any leverage in today’s market, the answer is a resounding yes.

I recently worked with a first-time homebuyer who found a home listed at $525,000. It had been sitting on the market for just over two weeks, which raised some concerns about why it hadn’t sold. We were able to negotiate below the asking price and also secured seller-paid closing costs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. This kind of opportunity is becoming more common across the country.

1. What’s helping homes sell right now? Homes that have been properly finished, repaired, and detailed are getting the most attention. Everything from clean caulking to basic maintenance matters. These are the homes that are standing out. At the same time, properties that need more attention are sitting longer, which opens the door for negotiation.

2. Negotiate a little more. Buyers who are open to homes that need some care often face less competition. Properties that have been on the market longer tend to come with more motivated sellers. These sellers are often more flexible with price and terms. If you’re a buyer looking for an opportunity, this is a time when you can negotiate with more confidence and less pressure.

3. Inventory is starting to build. Inventory is increasing, and lifestyle changes are driving some of that activity. Homeowners who had held on to their low mortgage rates are now rethinking their plans. Families grow, children leave for college, and the current home no longer fits. Whether it’s upsizing or downsizing, people are deciding to move forward.

4. Sellers are offering concessions. Sellers are more willing to work with buyers. There is no longer pressure to waive inspections or appraisals to compete. Buyers have more room to include protections in their offers. This flexibility may not last, especially if interest rates begin to drop and demand picks up again.

Interest rates remain a key factor. There is growing pressure on federal policy to bring rates down, which could influence mortgage rates. If that happens, more buyers are likely to re-enter the market. Increased demand would create more competition and reduce the flexibility buyers have right now. Sellers who are open to negotiation may not be as willing once buyer activity picks up again.

What does this mean for you? If you’re buying now, this is your moment. You have the power to negotiate, avoid bidding wars, and enjoy more perks than we’ve seen in years. If you’re selling, you’ll need to get strategic. Sharp pricing, standout staging, and smart incentives will help you stay competitive.

If you have questions or need guidance, just reach out. You can call me at 410-505-8268 or send an email to Nick@WaldnerWintersTeam.com. I look forward to hearing from you.