Number of Homes for Sale and New Listings Improve in January [VIDEO]

Realtor.com® January Housing Data Review: Signs of Market Movement Amid Tight Inventory

Realtor.com®’s January housing data shows some encouraging signs for both buyers and sellers. Compared to January 2023, the number of homes for sale and new listings has improved—modestly, but meaningfully. After a long stretch of tight inventory and hesitation in the market, this signals that confidence might be slowly returning.

The increase in listings, while not dramatic, is a welcome change. More sellers appear to be reentering the market, and even a small uptick in inventory can make a big difference when supply has been historically low. Buyers have more options now than they did the previous year, which helps to ease some of the pressure and bidding wars we saw in past seasons.

Despite this rise in listings, home prices continue to climb, although at a more measured pace. We’re not seeing the breakneck increases of 2021 or 2022, but prices are still edging upward due to the overall shortage of existing homes. Many homeowners are sitting on ultra-low mortgage rates and choosing not to sell, which limits the supply and helps keep prices high. This creates a competitive environment for well-maintained properties, especially in desirable neighborhoods.

One of the more notable trends is the decline in time on market. Homes are selling faster than in recent years, suggesting that buyers are still motivated and ready to act when they find the right fit. Even with higher mortgage rates, demand remains relatively strong, especially in markets with job growth, good schools, or quality-of-life perks like sunshine and tax advantages.

For real estate professionals and investors, this data hints at an important shift. The early months of the year often set the tone for the busy spring season. Seeing more listings and quicker sales could indicate that sellers are regaining confidence and buyers are adjusting their expectations—both signs of a more fluid market.

It’s also worth noting that the slow rise in prices provides a bit of breathing room. Rather than pricing buyers out completely, it allows the market to adjust naturally. We’re not seeing a bubble. Instead, we’re watching a cautious and deliberate recalibration of prices in response to supply, demand, and borrowing costs.

While challenges remain—especially around affordability and financing—this January snapshot shows a market that is gradually regaining traction. It’s not a dramatic rebound, but it’s a steady one. And in real estate, slow and steady is often what leads to sustainable growth.

In summary:

• More homes for sale than last January = better opportunities for buyers

• Listing prices still rising = strong seller confidence

• Fewer days on market = motivated buyers, realistic pricing

• Limited inventory = continued competition, especially for move-in ready homes

This report doesn’t suggest a dramatic shift—but it does point to movement in the right direction.

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