» Inventory is Up—But Are There Really That Many More Sellers Than Buyers?

Housing Market Shifting Toward Buyers: Inventory Rises, But Buyer Demand Harder to Gauge

A recent report from Redfin suggests that the national housing market is beginning to tilt in favor of buyers, with active listings outpacing buyer demand by a wide margin—what they claim is the largest such gap on record. According to their data, there are currently about 500,000 more home sellers than buyers nationwide.

Redfin bases its estimate of “buyers” on user activity within its own platform—specifically, people who request tours or connect with a Redfin agent. While this is a useful leading indicator of interest, it’s worth noting that accurately measuring the number of serious, active buyers in any market is inherently difficult. Most buyers don’t register on just one platform, and interest doesn’t always translate into transactions.

That said, the core point—that housing inventory is growing faster than demand—is a valid one, and we’re seeing similar trends locally.

Inventory on the Rise in Sandy Springs and East Cobb

In the metro Atlanta area, both Sandy Springs and East Cobb are seeing a steady increase in active listings. Homes are staying on the market longer than they were during the frenzied post-pandemic boom, and price reductions are becoming more common—especially for properties that aren’t move-in ready or are priced aggressively.

While we may not be seeing a full-blown buyer’s market just yet, the balance is clearly shifting. Buyers are gaining leverage, with more choices and fewer bidding wars.

Condo Market Leading the Shift

Redfin also notes that the condo market, in particular, is leaning heavily in favor of buyers, with 83% more condo listings than active buyer leads. This is consistent with what we’re observing in some parts of the Atlanta metro as well: condos and townhomes are seeing slower absorption rates compared to single-family homes, especially at higher price points.

Pricing Outlook: Softening, Not Crashing

Despite the rise in inventory, prices haven’t dropped significantly—yet. Redfin is projecting a modest 1% decline in home values nationwide by year’s end. Locally, we expect pricing to remain relatively stable, though motivated sellers may need to become more flexible, especially in areas where inventory continues to grow.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, this environment offers breathing room. With more homes to choose from and less pressure to bid above asking, it’s a good time to be thoughtful and strategic. For sellers, it means adjusting expectations and possibly rethinking pricing strategies—especially if the property isn’t drawing traffic.

Final Thoughts

While Redfin’s data offers a useful national snapshot, we view it through a local lens. It’s clear that more homes are coming to market in Sandy Springs, East Cobb, and other parts of metro Atlanta. And while no one can truly count all the buyers, the shift in market conditions is real. Sellers should take note—and buyers should be ready.

Robert Elon Gonzalez