Why You Shouldn’t Take Your House Off the Market Right Now

Is your house sitting on the market longer than anticipated? If so, you’re likely feeling frustrated and might be considering removing the listing to wait and see what 2025 brings. However, you may not realize that holding off could end up costing you. Here’s why staying the course might be the better option.

Other Sellers Are Holding Back. Should You Wait as Well?

Recent data from Altos Research shows an increase in withdrawals, indicating that more sellers are choosing to take their listings off the market. This trend is typical for this time of year.

The housing market experiences seasonal fluctuations, with inventory levels usually beginning to decline as fall approaches, as some sellers postpone their plans until the new year. As Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, notes:

“. . . we’re seeing a more normal seasonal pattern now with inventory beginning to decline. We’re also seeing more home sellers withdrawing their listings to try again next year. In fact, for every two sales, there is another listing withdrawn from the market.”

But is that the right decision? While it may seem sensible to remove your listing as well, here’s why that strategy might not be beneficial this year.

Today’s Buyers Are Committed and Prepared to Take Action

The main reason to stick with your selling plan now is that buyers active at this time of year are serious about making a purchase.

They’ve been waiting on the sidelines for some time, hoping for improved affordability. Now that mortgage rates have decreased from their recent highs, they’re ready to act. Mortgage applications are increasing, signaling that buyers are gearing up to re-enter the market. Having delayed their needs for so long, these buyers are even more motivated than usual for this time of year.

These are not casual browsers; they are highly motivated buyers eager to make quick decisions—and that’s the type of buyer you want to engage with. As Freddie Mac states:

“During the fall months, serious homebuyers are eager to settle in to a new home before the holiday season ramps up and the winter weather begins.”

Keeping your home on the market boosts the likelihood of attracting buyers who are genuinely ready to make a purchase.

In Conclusion

Although some sellers are opting to remove their homes from the market, this isn’t the most advantageous decision. With motivated buyers ready to buy, now is an excellent time to sell your house. Connect with a Benson & Mangold agent to have a solid strategy in place to make it happen.