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ealtor.com’s latest analysis identifies October 12‑18, 2025, as the optimal week for homebuyers nationwide, though mortgage rates remain unpredictable. Early fall typically brings higher inventory, lower prices, and less competition, giving buyers a better chance to negotiate. Mid‑October can see sale prices up to $15 k below summer highs, and the market’s pace slows by roughly two weeks compared to May’s peak of 50 days.

    The “best week” varies by region. In major metros, the sweet spot falls in September or early October: New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas already passed their September peak. Houston, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C. hit their optimal window in mid‑October, while West Coast cities such as San Jose, Portland, and Seattle peak later in the month. Miami and Tampa may see their best weeks as late as December.

    Supply dynamics favor buyers. Inventory is more balanced nationwide, and the market is the most buyer‑friendly in nearly a decade, according to the report. The West and South, with higher inventory levels, are especially attractive for buyers. However, the West also has a higher proportion of mortgaged homes (64.3 %) compared to the South (57.5 %), making it more sensitive to rate changes. Roughly 80 % of mortgages still carry rates at or below 6 %, a decline from 93 % in 2022, and the share of mortgages above 6 % is the highest since 2015.

    Mortgage rates are a wildcard. Homeowners are more likely to sell if current rates are near or below their existing mortgage, which is under 6 % for most homes. If rates fall, the West could experience a surge in activity. Fannie Mae forecasts rates around 6.4 % by year‑end 2025, dropping to 5.9 % by 2026. In metros like Seattle and Portland, a downward trend in rates could further lower prices during the later‑month peak.

    Buyers should intensify their search now, as prime buying conditions arrive in just two weeks. While the market isn’t yet a true buyers’ market, the increased inventory and potential rate easing provide more breathing room than in recent years.