Spring is here, and so is the real estate buzz! If you’re thinking about buying or selling, you’ve probably heard all kinds of predictions and advice—some 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—wisdom that every buyer and seller should hear.
Here’s what you actually need to know about the 2025 spring market, based on data from Zillow and insights from Hale herself.
- Trying to Time the Market? That’s a Risky Game
Every year, we hear that listing at the “perfect time” can get you more money. Zillow’s latest research says homes listed in late May sell for about $5,600 more on average. Sounds great, right? But here’s what most people miss:
- In 2022, March was the best month to sell.
- In 2023, it was June.
- In 2025? No one knows for sure.
Why? Because mortgage rates, local demand, and inventory play a much bigger role than the calendar. Danielle Hale put it simply:
“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 is a good fit, go for it.”
Bottom line: Trying to outguess the market is like trying to predict the stock market—it rarely works.
- Serious Buyers Are Always Looking
A lot of people assume buyers don’t start searching until late spring. Not true! Serious buyers are always looking.
Mortgage rate changes mean buyers jump in and out of the market all year long. They’re not waiting for May—they’re waiting for the right opportunity.
The takeaway? If you’re selling, don’t assume waiting until May will get you better buyers. The right buyer for your home could be searching right now.
- Mortgage Rates Matter More Than the Season
This is the real wildcard. If rates drop, buyers flood the market—no matter the season. If rates rise, demand cools off—even in a so-called “hot” market.
That’s why Hale told her neighbor to stop stressing about short-term fluctuations and focus on long-term goals. If you plan 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 real question isn’t when you list, but how competitive you make your home.
- Local Insights Matter Most
One of the biggest mistakes buyers and sellers make? Trusting national headlines instead of understanding what’s happening locally.
Zillow found that the best time to sell varies widely by city.
- In San Diego and Austin, peak selling season starts as early as March.
- In Phoenix, it’s November.
- In Orlando, the seasonal bump is tiny—just 0.9%!
Meanwhile, inventory is rising in some places and staying tight in others. The Northeast is still short on homes, while the South and West have more new construction, giving buyers more choices.
Danielle 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.”
So, what’s happening in Alpharetta? Here are some quick housing market stats:
- Inventory: 1,250 active listings
- Median Sale Price: $670,000
- Days on Market: 22 days
Want a deeper dive into market stats for your neighborhood? Call me at 404-444-5263, and I’ll get you the latest data.
- The Right Listing Strategy Can Make or Break Your Sale Price
A lot of sellers obsess over when to list. But how you list matters just as much—if not more.
According to Zillow:
Homes listed on the MLS sell for 1.5% more than off-market listings.
Homes with high-quality photos, 3D tours, and interactive floor plans sell for 2% more.
Homes with in-demand features (think remodeled kitchens, outdoor TVs, or bluestone patios) can bring in thousands more.
The sellers who maximize exposure and highlight the right features get top dollar—no matter the month.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway from Zillow’s research and Hale’s advice? Stop waiting around for the “perfect” moment.
- For buyers: If you find a home that meets your needs and budget—and you plan to stay put for a while—go for it.
- For sellers: If you’re ready to sell, focus on strategy, not just timing.
The market doesn’t wait for anyone, and the best deals go to those who are prepared to act.
Ready to buy or sell this spring? Let’s talk! 📞 404-444-5263
Melissa Morgan 