Are Buyers Gaining Leverage? Shifts in Negotiation Power in the 2025 Real Estate Market
Introduction
Over the last several years, the real estate market has favored sellers. With limited inventory, high demand, and rapidly rising prices, many buyers found themselves in bidding wars or paying above asking price just to get into a home. However, in early 2025, we’re seeing some subtle shifts nationally and locally that suggest the balance may be beginning to change—even if only slightly.
What’s Happening Nationally
Across the country, the housing market is showing signs of a shift toward buyers. According to recent data, homes are now selling for about 2% below list price, and inventory is climbing. Properties are staying on the market longer, and with more options available, buyers are beginning to negotiate more effectively.
Legal and structural changes in the industry, including the recent NAR settlement regarding commission structures, are also giving buyers new considerations when it comes to representation and cost.
The Columbus Market: A Slightly Different Story
While these national trends are promising for buyers, Columbus and Central Ohio are not necessarily following the same trajectory. The region remains a strong seller’s market, although some softening indicators are emerging.
According to the February 2025 Housing Report from Columbus REALTORS®:
There were 3,716 homes for sale in the Columbus & Central Ohio Regional MLS at the end of February—a 32% increase year-over-year compared to 2,817 in February 2024.
However, this represents just 1.5 months of inventory, far below the 5-6 months typically seen in a balanced market.
The average days on market rose to 43, giving buyers slightly more breathing room compared to recent years.
Homes sold for 99% of the final list price, indicating that while slight discounts are returning, sellers still hold a strong position.
New listings in February dropped 5% compared to the same month last year, suggesting some sellers are still hesitant to enter the market.
Despite the increase in inventory, Central Ohio remains tightly competitive. Columbus REALTORS® President Buffie Patterson noted, “We’ve experienced some warm weather, and we can sense spring approaching. From our previous experience, we know that as the weather changes, home sales tend to increase. I believe we are poised for a busy spring in central Ohio.”
What This Means for Buyers
Even in a seller’s market, some leverage is beginning to return to buyers in Central Ohio. Increased inventory, longer market times, and slight list price flexibility are all signs that now may be a smart time to enter the market, before spring activity intensifies and competition increases.
Buyers today have more opportunities to:
Negotiate on price or repairs
Avoid intense multiple-offer situations
Take a bit more time to evaluate homes
That said, working with a Realtor who understands the nuances of our specific local market is more important than ever. Columbus is still competitive, but there’s more breathing room than buyers had just one year ago.
Looking Ahead
In 2024, home sales in Central Ohio jumped nearly 16% from February to March. With 1,000 more homes on the market this year, the potential for a more active spring season is high. Buyers who start their search now could find themselves with more options, more negotiating power, and less stress.
Conclusion
While Central Ohio isn’t a buyer’s market just yet, the landscape is changing. Nationally, buyers are gaining power, and locally, inventory growth and increased days on market suggest opportunity is knocking.
If you’re thinking about buying this spring, let’s connect and put a plan together that helps you make the most of this evolving market.
📨 Ready to start your home search? I’m here to help.