What are buyers and sellers all struggling with right now?
If you're trying to buy or sell a home in Rhode Island or Massachusetts—especially in hot pockets like the South Shore (Weymouth, Hingham) and the East Bay (Barrington, Bristol, Warren)—you’ve probably noticed: the real estate market is frustrating right now. Not quite the frenzied seller's market of 2021, but definitely not a smooth ride for buyers either.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a downsizer eyeing the coast, or someone thinking about selling while equity is high, here's a real look at what buyers and sellers are up against this spring.
Top 5 Buyer Struggles in Today's East Coast Market
1. Low Inventory Is Still the Name of the Game
Even with a few more homes popping up this spring, there still aren’t enough listings—especially in popular South Shore towns like Weymouth, Plymouth, and Scituate or in growing coastal communities like Tiverton and Bristol, RI. Buyers are competing hard, and homes under $600k can disappear in a weekend.
2. Mortgage Rates Are Still Creating Sticker Shock
While rates have settled a bit compared to the chaos of 2023, they’re still much higher than what buyers grew used to during the pandemic (we’re talking low-mid 7s). This affects monthly affordability, especially in areas where prices haven’t dropped to match.
3. Fear of Overpaying Is Real
Buyers want to make a smart move—but with prices holding strong and interest rates adding pressure, it’s tough to decide if now is the right time to pull the trigger. No one wants buyer’s remorse, especially with fixer-uppers that still command premium prices.
4. Hidden Listings & Off-Market Deals
More agents are pre-marketing listings to their private networks, which means the average buyer browsing Zillow might be missing out. If you’re not working with a well-connected agent, you're likely missing opportunities.
5. Exhaustion From Bidding Wars
They're not as wild as 2021, but they’re still happening—especially for well-priced, move-in ready homes. Some buyers are on their third or fourth offer and feeling the fatigue.
Top 5 Seller Struggles in Spring 2025
1. “I'd Sell… But Where Would I Go?”
This is the number one thing I hear from potential sellers. Yes, you might be sitting on hundreds of thousands in equity—but if you’re also buying, especially locally, it can feel like a lateral move at best.
2. The Market Isn’t What It Was in 2021
Some sellers are holding out for the bidding wars and above-asking frenzy of two years ago. But today’s buyers are more cautious and have more choice. Pricing and presentation matter a lot now.
3. Buyers Want Move-In Ready Homes
Homes that need work—or even just cosmetic updates—are sitting longer. Today’s buyers are busy, burnt out, and less likely to want to take on projects. Sellers who invest a little in prep (think fresh paint, decluttering, and smart staging) are getting the most traction.
4. Navigating Timing Feels Complicated
Trying to time a sale, purchase, and move? It’s a lot. Many sellers are considering rent-backs, temporary housing, or working with agents who offer flexible closing timelines to ease the transition.
5. Online First Impressions Matter More Than Ever
From professional photos to captivating listing descriptions, the first showing is online. If your agent isn’t prioritizing digital marketing, your listing could get lost in the scroll.
So, What’s the Play?
Whether you're buying your first home, investing in your next one, or finally thinking about listing and cashing out some equity, the market requires strategy—not guesswork. The truth? There are still great opportunities out there, but the edge goes to buyers and sellers who are prepared, connected, and advised by someone who knows how to navigate this version of the market—not the one from two years ago.
If you want to talk through your options, get a market snapshot for your town, or just have someone take the stress off your plate—I’m here to help.
