The Dramatic Inventory Decline: Why Now Is an Ideal Time to Sell

The dynamic world of real estate is ever-evolving, influenced by numerous factors such as economic conditions, global events, and housing demand. As of 2023, one of the most profound trends underpinning the market is the startlingly low housing inventory. For homeowners mulling over the idea of selling, understanding this trend is crucial.

You might have come across casual mentions about the low housing inventory or had fleeting discussions about it over a coffee conversation. However, it's time to delve deeper and truly grasp the magnitude of this phenomenon and what it means for sellers today.

A Historical Perspective on Housing Inventory

Before diving into today's scenario, it's essential to frame the discussion within a historical context. A graph from Calculated Risk offers a revealing glimpse into the current landscape of housing inventory. While there's been a minute uptick in housing inventory on a week-to-week basis, the broader picture reveals a stark shortage in supply. To draw a parallel, when juxtaposed against the same week from the preceding year, the current supply is dwindling by about 10%. And remember, even last year, the consensus was that inventory levels were far from adequate.

However, the real jaw-dropper comes when we travel back to 2019, often termed as the last 'normal' year in the housing realm. A comparative analysis between the current week and the corresponding week in 2019 indicates an approximately 50% decline in available homes. To break it down succinctly, for every two homes available in 2019, there's just one in today's market.

What Does This Mean for Potential Sellers?

The housing market, in its essence, thrives on a delicate balance between demand and supply. Ideally, a balanced market presents an equal playing field for both buyers and sellers. However, the current 50% plunge in inventory decidedly tilts the scales in favor of sellers.

In the words of Lawrence Yun, the Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“The market is parched for available homes. There's room to comfortably accommodate a twofold increase in inventory.”

For those contemplating selling, this presents an unprecedented opportunity. A lower inventory doesn't just mean reduced competition. It magnifies the spotlight on the available homes, often culminating in multiple offers and potentially higher selling prices.

Navigating the Inventory Desert

For sellers, the dramatically reduced inventory landscape is akin to being a prominent oasis in a vast desert. Buyers, parched for options, are more likely to gravitate towards the few available homes, enhancing the chances of swift, lucrative deals for sellers.

In Conclusion: Seizing the Window of Opportunity

The world of real estate, like many other domains, is shaped by the law of supply and demand. With current inventory levels mirroring half of what they were in a 'normal' year, sellers find themselves in an advantageous position. If you've been sitting on the fence regarding selling, now might be the opportune moment to leap.

Remember: In a market starved for choices, your property stands tall. If selling has been on your mind, let's join forces and capitalize on this unique market trajectory.

8-19-2023