Homebuyers Have More Leverage Than They’ve Had in Over a Decade

If you are thinking about buying a home in 2026 and have been waiting for the market to feel a little less overwhelming, this might be the moment you have been hoping for.

After several years of a fast paced seller focused market, we are finally seeing a shift that brings buyers back into the conversation in a meaningful way.

According to a recent Redfin report, buyers now have more negotiating power than they have had in over a decade. In fact, sellers currently outnumber buyers by a record margin nationwide.

That does not mean buying a home is suddenly effortless. What it does mean is that you are no longer expected to rush into big decisions just to stay competitive.

Understanding what is changing can help you approach your home search with more clarity, confidence, and control.

Why Buyers Have More Leverage Right Now

The biggest reason buyers are gaining leverage is simple. There are more homes for sale than there are buyers actively shopping. Across the country, sellers outnumber buyers by over forty percent.

When that happens, sellers have to work harder to stand out, and buyers gain more choices.

Compared to the intense seller driven markets of recent years, homes are staying on the market longer. Expectations are adjusting, competition has softened, and buyers are not facing the same constant pressure to act immediately.

This shift gives buyers something that has been missing for a while. Time to think, evaluate, and make thoughtful decisions.

What Leverage Looks Like When You Are Buying a Home

Leverage is not just a headline or a statistic. It shows up in real ways throughout the buying process.

Many buyers are experiencing more flexibility in price negotiations, increased willingness from sellers to contribute toward closing costs, and far less pressure to waive inspections or important protections.

There is also more room to negotiate repairs, timelines, and offer terms in a way that feels reasonable and balanced.

This does not mean every seller is eager to negotiate or that every home is discounted. It does mean buyers are more likely to have a voice and the ability to advocate for terms that make sense for their situation.

How This Is Showing Up in Our Local Market

While national trends are pointing toward a more buyer friendly environment, real estate is always local.

Here in our market, we saw this shift begin to take shape this past fall. Buyers were negotiating more during inspections and in many cases walking away if terms did not align. Offers included more contingencies, and buyers had more negotiating power overall when it came to price reductions and closing credits.

Some homes are still moving quickly, especially those that are well priced and located in highly desirable areas. Others are sitting longer, creating opportunities for buyers who are paying attention and ready to act strategically.

Understanding where flexibility exists and where it does not can make a meaningful difference in your experience and outcome.

How You Can Use This Moment to Your Advantage

With more leverage comes the opportunity to be more intentional.

Buyers who tend to do well in this type of market focus less on speed and more on strategy. They take time to understand local pricing, watch how long homes are staying on the market, and stay clear on their budget and priorities.

Strong offers today balance value with reasonable flexibility rather than urgency alone.

Trying to perfectly time the market rarely works. Making a thoughtful decision that aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals is far more likely to lead to a successful and comfortable outcome.

The Bottom Line for Buyers

You have more leverage today than you have had in years, and that shift can make the homebuying process feel more balanced and manageable.

While no market is perfect, today’s conditions offer more room to ask questions, negotiate thoughtfully, and move forward at a pace that feels right for you.

If you are considering buying a home this year, this could be a really good time to explore what is possible. Even if you are still in the early planning stages, understanding how the market is changing can help you feel more confident and prepared for what comes next.