Spring Home Selling Myths Busted: What the Data Actually Says

Spring Housing Market 2025: What You Actually Need to Know

Spring is here, and if you’re thinking about buying or selling, you’ve probably heard all kinds of predictions and advice. Some of it’s helpful—some, not so much.

So, what’s really going on? Realtor.com’s Chief Economist, Danielle Hale, recently shared some solid advice with her neighbor about buying a home—advice that every buyer and seller needs to hear.

Here’s what you actually need to know about the 2025 spring market, based on Zillow data and Hale’s insights:

1. Trying to Time the Market? That’s a Gamble

Zillow’s latest data says homes listed in late May tend to sell for about $5,600 more on average. That stat makes headlines every year—but here’s the part most people miss:

• In 2022, March was the best month to sell.
• In 2023, it was June.
• In 2025? No one knows for sure—because mortgage rates, local demand, and inventory play a bigger role than the calendar.

Hale put it this way when talking to her neighbor:
“There are always reasons to be uncertain in the housing market. My advice… is to keep your eyes open and when you see the home that’s a good fit, go for it.”

Trying to outsmart the housing market is like trying to predict the stock market—it rarely works out.

2. Serious Buyers Are Already Looking

A common myth is that buyers don’t start searching until late spring. Not true.

Mortgage rate swings mean buyers are constantly jumping in and out of the market all year long. They’re not waiting for May—they’re waiting for the right opportunity.

If you’re selling, don’t assume you need to wait until May. The right buyer could be out there right now.

3. Mortgage Rates Matter More Than the Season

This is the real wild card.

• If rates drop, buyers flood the market—no matter the time of year.
• If rates rise, demand cools off—even if it’s traditionally a “hot” market.

That’s why Hale advised her neighbor to stop stressing over short-term rate changes and focus on long-term goals. If you’re planning to stay in a home for at least five years, trying to time the market perfectly isn’t worth the stress.

For sellers, this means one thing: If buyers see an opportunity, they’ll jump—whether it’s March, May, or July. The question isn’t when you list—it’s how competitive you make your home.

4. Local Market Insights Matter Most

One of the biggest mistakes buyers and sellers make is trusting national headlines instead of understanding what’s happening locally.

Zillow’s data shows that the best time to sell varies widely by city:

• In San Diego and Austin, the peak selling period starts in March.
• In Phoenix, the peak isn’t until November.
• In Orlando, the “seasonal bump” is barely noticeable—just 0.9 percent.

Meanwhile, inventory is rising in some areas and staying tight in others. The Northeast is still low on homes, while the South and West have more new construction, giving buyers more options.

Hale summed it up perfectly:
“You want to look at national numbers to understand the broader context, but what really matters is what’s happening in your market.”

Here’s what’s happening locally from February 2025:

• Average Sales Price: $275,427 (was $285,708 in January 2025, and $265,845 in February 2024)
• Number of New Listings: 717 (713 in January 2025, and 703 in February 2024)
• Total Homes for Sale: 2,098 (2,141 in January and 2,013 in February 2024)
• Closed Sales: 409 (377 in January and 425 in February 2024)
• Days on Market: 51 (47 in January and 40 in February 2024)
• Months Supply of Inventory: 4 (4.2 in January and 4 in February 2024)

Want a deeper dive into your neighborhood’s market stats? Contact me, and I’ll pull the latest data for you.

5. How You List Matters More Than When You List

A lot of sellers stress over when to list—but how you list matters just as much (if not more).

Zillow’s research found that:

• Homes listed on the MLS sell for 1.5 percent more than off-market listings.
• High-quality photos, 3D tours, and interactive floor plans boost sale prices by about 2 percent.
• In-demand features—like remodeled kitchens, outdoor living spaces, and smart home upgrades—can command thousands more.

Maximizing exposure and highlighting the right features will help you get top dollar—no matter the month.

Final Thoughts

The biggest takeaway from both Zillow’s research and Hale’s advice is that you shouldn’t wait around for the “perfect” moment.

For buyers, if you find a home that fits your needs and budget—and you plan to stay for a while—go for it.
For sellers, if you’re ready to sell, focus on strategy, not timing.

The market doesn’t wait for anyone, and the best deals go to those who are prepared to act.