If you’ve been wondering whether buyers are still out there, here’s your answer: yes.
And they’re looking more online than they have in two years.
Even before last week’s big mortgage rate news (ICYMI, rates dipped to 6.55% on August 7), online searches for “homes for sale” were climbing fast in July. That means plenty of people were already getting serious about finding their next home.
The kicker? After that dip, mortgage applications jumped.
And now, rates just dropped again. On August 13, they hit a new low of 2025, decreasing to 6.53%, according to Mortgage News Daily.
Translation: buyer motivation isn’t just alive… it’s picking up speed.
Google Search Trends
Google Trends tracks the popularity of specific search phrases over time. And two big ones, “homes for sale” and “houses for sale,” both hit a two-year high in July, back when mortgage rates were still in the high 6s.
That’s huge, because online search activity is often the first sign that demand is building. Before buyers tour homes or call an agent, they start by quietly browsing online.
Mortgage Applications Are on the Rise
Fast forward to August, and we saw mortgage rates drop, and buyers immediately started taking advantage. According to the MBA’s Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey, purchase applications were up 1% from the week before and 17% higher than the same week last year.
This increase came right after the rate drop, which tells us one thing: when financing gets even slightly more affordable, buyers notice and they move quickly.
Why This Matters for Sellers
More buyers in the market means more potential interest in your home. That can lead to:
More showings. A bigger buyer pool increases the chances your home gets noticed.
Better competition. Even a few motivated buyers can create a bidding environment.
While the market isn’t moving at the lightning pace we saw during the pandemic, you don’t need a dozen offers to get a great result. You just need the right buyer. And right now, that buyer could already be searching.
How to Take Advantage of the Momentum
If you’re thinking about selling, here are a few steps to help you make the most of this uptick in buyer interest:
Get a market analysis. Find out what your home could sell for in today’s market.
Make small updates. Simple fixes can help your home show its best without a huge investment.
Plan your marketing. Professional photos, staging, and strong online presence will help you stand out, especially when more buyers are searching online.
If you want your home to be part of the action, now’s the time to start the conversation. Motivated buyers are out there, and they’re ready to act when the right home comes along.
—
Joseph Ranola | Five-Star Staten Island & South Brooklyn Realtor® (30 + Google reviews)
Associate Broker · Matias Real Estate | Founder · Bridge & Boro Team
Serving 103xx and 11209 / 11214 / 11228 | $25 M + closed volume
📞 917-716-1496 | RanolaRealEstate.com
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