The Real Estate Market in September 2025: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

The U.S. housing market in September 2025 is sending mixed signals, and that makes it even more important to cut through the noise. Mortgage rates just hit an 11-month low around 6.5%, which should feel like relief for buyers, but affordability is still straining under the weight of high home prices, insurance costs, and limited inventory. Pending sales are on the rise, yet many deals are stalling before closing. It’s a market that rewards preparation, clarity, and decisive moves.

So, what does this mean for you if you’re considering buying, selling, or investing right now? Let’s break it down.

Why Buyers Should Pay Attention Now

Lower mortgage rates are giving buyers more breathing room, but the story doesn’t stop there. Sellers are still holding onto pandemic-era pricing expectations, and the lack of affordable new construction means the competition for mid-priced homes is fierce.

Here’s what matters most today:

• Buying power just ticked up. A half-percent drop in mortgage rates can translate into thousands of dollars in savings over the life of a loan.

• Inventory remains tight. Fewer new listings mean desirable homes are still moving quickly, even if some sit longer due to affordability constraints.

• Preparation wins. Pre-approvals, strong offers, and a clear strategy are the difference between landing a home and watching it slip away.

Why Sellers Still Have the Upper Hand - But Need to Be Strategic

If you’re thinking about selling, the market is still leaning in your favor, but buyers are choosier than they were a year ago. With affordability stretched thin, buyers are quick to walk away from properties that aren’t priced right or don’t show well.

To maximize your outcome:

• Price to the market, not your wish list. Buyers are savvy and know what homes are worth today.

• Presentation matters. Staging, photography, and marketing aren’t extras, they’re non-negotiables.

• Timing is still your ally. Rates dipping below 7% has motivated buyers who were on the sidelines earlier this year.

Investors: Watch the Rental and Commercial Shifts

For investors, the story is nuanced. Apartment rents are stabilizing, and fewer new units are expected to hit the market in the coming year, potentially setting up another rent surge in some cities. Meanwhile, commercial real estate is being reshaped. Office vacancies remain a challenge, but AI-driven industries are giving new life to urban centers like San Francisco.

Translation: The smart money is watching where jobs and demand are moving, not just where they are today.

The Bottom Line

Today’s real estate market is neither crashing nor booming, it’s adjusting. Lower rates are sparking optimism, but affordability and inventory challenges remain. Buyers need strategy, sellers need precision, and investors need foresight.

This is the kind of market where information is power, and where having the right guidance can make the difference between opportunity and regret.

Ready to Make a Move?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, staying ahead of the curve is everything. Let’s talk about your next steps, and make sure you’re positioned to win in today’s complex market.