The real estate market in Buffalo is constantly changing, and it’s important to understand the differences between a buyer’s market and a seller’s market. In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers, which means that buyers have more negotiating power. In a seller’s market, there are more buyers than there are homes for sale, which means that sellers have more negotiating power. In this blog post, we’ll cover five key differences between a buyer’s market and a seller’s market and what it means for you as a home buyer or seller.Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Buffalo, understanding current market conditions can give you a major advantage. Real estate markets typically shift between two major environments: a buyer’s market and a seller’s market. Each one affects pricing, negotiation power, time on market, and overall strategy.
Here are the five key differences between the two—plus what they mean for you.
1. Inventory Levels
One of the biggest differences between a buyer’s market and a seller’s market is inventory levels. In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers, which means that there is a surplus of inventory. This can lead to lower prices and more negotiating power for buyers. In a seller’s market, there are more buyers than there are homes for sale, which means that there is a shortage of inventory. This can lead to higher prices and less negotiating power for buyers.
For sellers, a buyer’s market means that there is more competition, which can make it harder to sell their home. In a seller’s market, there is less competition, which can make it easier to sell their home.
Buyer’s Market
You’ll see more for-sale signs, more active listings online, and more price reductions.
Seller’s Market
Low inventory means buyers have fewer choices and must act fast.
Practical Impact for Buffalo Residents:
Inventory trends shape your timing. More inventory = more buying opportunities. Less inventory = more selling power.
2. Days on Market
Days on market is the amount of time that a home is listed for sale before it is sold. In a buyer’s market, homes tend to stay on the market longer because there are fewer buyers. This can lead to more negotiating power for buyers, as sellers may be more willing to accept lower offers. In a seller’s market, homes tend to sell more quickly because there are more buyers. This can lead to less negotiating power for buyers, as sellers may receive multiple offers and be able to choose the best one.
For sellers, a longer days on market can be frustrating and may lead to lower offers. In a seller’s market, a shorter days on market can lead to higher offers and a quicker sale.
Buyer’s Market
Homes typically stay on the market longer. Sellers must be patient and may need to adjust price or offer incentives.
Seller’s Market
Homes sell quickly—sometimes within days or even hours.
Local Insight:
DOM is one of the best indicators of what’s happening in the Buffalo real estate market at any given time.
3. Price
Price is another key difference between a buyer’s market and a seller’s market. In a buyer’s market, prices tend to be lower because there is more competition among sellers. In a seller’s market, prices tend to be higher because there is more competition among buyers.
Buyer’s Market
Prices tend to stabilize or even decline slightly because sellers must attract buyers.
Seller’s Market
Prices typically rise as buyers compete—sometimes above list price.
Impact in Buffalo:
If you’re buying, waiting for a buyer’s market could help you secure a better deal. If you’re selling, a seller’s market can significantly increase your profit.
For buyers, a buyer’s market means that they may be able to find a home at a lower price. In a seller’s market, buyers may need to be prepared to pay more for a home. For sellers, a buyer’s market means that they may need to lower their asking price to attract buyers. In a seller’s market, sellers may be able to ask for a higher price and receive multiple offers.
4. Negotiating Power
Negotiating power is the ability to negotiate a better deal. In a buyer’s market, buyers have more negotiating power because there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. This means that sellers may be more willing to accept lower offers or make concessions, such as paying for closing costs or making repairs. In a seller’s market, sellers have more negotiating power because there are more buyers than there are homes for sale. This means that buyers may need to make higher offers or be willing to make concessions to win a bidding war.
For buyers, a buyer’s market means that they have more negotiating power and may be able to get a better deal. In a seller’s market, buyers may need to be prepared to make higher offers or make concessions to win a bidding war. For sellers, a buyer’s market means that they may need to be more flexible and willing to make concessions to attract buyers. In a seller’s market, sellers have more negotiating power and may be able to receive higher offers.
5. Market Conditions
Market conditions refer to the overall state of the real estate market. In a buyer’s market, the market conditions are favorable for buyers because there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. In a seller’s market, the market conditions are favorable for sellers because there are more buyers than there are homes for sale. Understanding whether Buffalo is currently in a buyer’s or seller’s market gives you the power to make smarter decisions. From pricing strategies to negotiation tactics to timing your move, knowing the difference can save or earn you thousands of dollars.
Buyer’s Market: More Homes Than Buyers
When inventory is high and buyers have more options, sellers often compete for attention. Homes may take longer to sell, and pricing becomes more flexible.
Seller’s Market: More Buyers Than Homes
Limited inventory creates competition among buyers, leading to faster sales and stronger offers.
What This Means for You in Buffalo:
Sellers: You can price more aggressively and expect quicker offers in a seller’s market.
Buyers: You’ll have more time and negotiating power in a buyer’s market.
For buyers, understanding the market conditions can help them make informed decisions about when to buy a home and how much to offer. In a buyer’s market, buyers may be able to take their time and find a home at a lower price. In a seller’s market, buyers may need to act quickly and be prepared to pay more for a home. For sellers, understanding the market conditions can help them price their home appropriately and attract buyers. In a buyer’s market, sellers may need to lower their asking price to attract buyers. In a seller’s market, sellers may be able to ask for a higher price and receive multiple offers.
Understanding the differences between a buyer’s market and a seller’s market is important for both home buyers and sellers. No matter which side of the fence you’re on, you’ll want to make informed decisions about when to buy or sell a home and how much to offer or ask for. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, working with an experienced real estate agent can help you navigate the market and achieve your real estate goals. Give us a call today for assistance with all of your real estate needs! 716-562-4202