What Today’s Housing Supply Really Means for Buyers and Sellers in 2025
Over the past few years, the housing market has felt like a pressure cooker: record-low inventory, high demand, bidding wars, waived contingencies, and plenty of buyer fatigue. But in 2025, the landscape is finally shifting.
Inventory is growing.
More listings are hitting the market.
Buyers are seeing more choices.
But that doesn’t necessarily mean we’re in a buyer’s market—yet. Let’s take a closer look at what the increase in supply really means and what it could signal for your next move, whether you're buying or selling.
First, What Does "Inventory" Really Mean?
Housing inventory refers to the number of homes for sale in a given market at a given time. When inventory is low, buyers compete for fewer homes—often leading to bidding wars and rising prices. When inventory is high, sellers may have to compete harder to attract buyers, often resulting in price reductions or more flexible terms.
Right now in Charleston and many U.S. markets, we’re seeing a noticeable uptick in listings—especially compared to the scarcity of 2021–2023.
But here’s the key:
We're recovering from historic lows.
Even though more homes are available, supply is still tight by pre-pandemic standards, and the balance between buyers and sellers varies depending on location, price range, and property condition.
What’s Driving the Rise in Inventory?
A few key factors are contributing to the increase:
1. Interest Rates Are Settling (Somewhat)
While still higher than buyers might like, mortgage rates have stopped climbing dramatically. This has encouraged some would-be sellers—many of whom were holding onto their ultra-low rates—to finally list.
2. Life Events Are Creating Movement
People are relocating, retiring, downsizing, or moving up. After holding off during the volatility of recent years, many are moving forward with their plans despite the current rates.
3. New Construction Is Catching Up
Builders have been ramping up over the past 18–24 months. Some new developments are now hitting the market, contributing to available housing options—especially in suburban and rural areas around Charleston.
So, Is It a Buyer’s Market?
Not quite.
While conditions are improving for buyers, we’re not in a classic buyer’s market—defined by high inventory, longer time on market, and falling prices.
Instead, we’re in what many experts are calling a “balanced market” in most areas. That means:
- Homes are no longer flying off the market in days—but they’re still selling at a healthy pace.
- Buyers have more options, but well-priced homes still draw competitive interest.
- Sellers aren’t slashing prices across the board—but they’re more open to negotiation than before.
In some segments (like luxury homes or homes needing updates), we’re seeing more of a tilt toward buyer-friendliness. But in high-demand areas or turnkey properties, sellers still have an edge.
What This Means If You're a Buyer
If you’ve been feeling sidelined by the market the past couple of years, this is your moment to re-enter with more confidence.
Benefits of Buying in Today’s Market:
- More listings = more choices.
- You’re less likely to face bidding wars or waive important contingencies.
- Sellers may be open to rate buydowns, credits for repairs, or closing costs.
But it’s still not a free-for-all. Homes in great condition, priced right, and in desirable areas are still moving quickly—especially in Charleston’s top neighborhoods and school districts.
Buyer Strategy Tips:
- Get pre-approved so you’re ready to move when the right home hits.
- Be realistic about your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
- Don’t rule out slightly dated homes—cosmetic upgrades could give you more negotiating power and equity.
What This Means If You’re a Seller
Yes, there’s more competition. But don’t let that scare you—well-prepared homes are still selling quickly and for strong prices.
Today’s buyers are savvy. They’re watching rates, comparing options, and not willing to overpay. But that doesn’t mean they’re walking away from good homes—they just want value.
Seller Strategy Tips:
- Price your home strategically—not too high, not too low.
- Invest in presentation. This includes decluttering, professional photography, and light staging.
- Be flexible with terms. If you’re priced right but not getting offers, consider offering incentives like a home warranty or rate buydown.
Timing the Market vs. Timing Your Life
A lot of people wonder: Should I wait to buy until prices drop? Should I wait to sell until rates change?
Here’s the reality: trying to time the market perfectly is nearly impossible. Instead, base your decision on what works for your life, your finances, and your long-term goals.
If your home no longer fits your needs—or you’re ready to build equity instead of renting—it may be smarter to move now, rather than wait for the “perfect” market moment.
Here’s what we’re seeing locally:
- Inventory has increased year-over-year, especially in outer suburban areas like Summerville and Moncks Corner.
- Downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant remain competitive for turnkey homes.
- Homes priced over $1M are sitting longer, offering potential leverage for move-up buyers.
Local knowledge is key right now. Market dynamics are shifting week-to-week in different zip codes, so working with an agent who knows the Charleston micro-markets can give you a serious advantage.
Bottom Line
Inventory is growing—and that’s good news.
But calling it a buyer’s market? Not yet.
Instead, we’re in a more balanced, more nuanced market—one where thoughtful planning, preparation, and local expertise make all the difference.
Whether you’re buying or selling, this is a season of opportunity—if you know how to navigate it.
