If you’re looking to buy a home in 2026, and you’ve been waiting for the housing market to feel a little less stacked against you, that moment may finally be here. 

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

That doesn’t mean the market is suddenly easy for home shoppers, but it does mean you’re no longer expected to rush into decisions just to keep up. 

Understanding what’s changing can help you approach your home search with more clarity.

Why Buyers Have More Leverage Right Now

The biggest reason you’re gaining leverage is simple. Across the nation, there are 47.1% more sellers than buyers in today’s housing market. When that happens, sellers have to work harder to stand out. And you gain more options to choose from.

Compared to the seller-heavy markets of recent years, you’re now seeing homes stay on the market longer. Sellers are adjusting expectations, and competition has eased in many areas. 

While prices and mortgage rates still matter, you’re not facing the same constant pressure to act immediately or risk missing out.

This shift gives you something that’s been in short supply for a while: time to think.

What Leverage Looks Like When You’re Buying a Home

Leverage isn’t just a statistic. It shows up in the decisions you’re able to make throughout the buying process. As a buyer, you may notice changes like these:

• More flexibility in price negotiations

• Greater willingness from sellers to help with closing costs or other concessions

• Less pressure to waive inspections or important protections

• More room to negotiate repairs, timelines, or terms

These conditions don’t mean every seller is desperate or every home is discounted. They do mean you’re more likely to have a voice in the process and the ability to ask for terms that feel reasonable for your situation.

How This Is Showing Up in Staten Island

While national trends point to a buyer-friendlier environment, real estate is always local. 

Some homes are still competitive, especially those that are priced well or located in high-demand neighborhoods. 

Others are sitting longer, which can create opportunities if you’re paying attention. 

Knowing where flexibility exists and where it doesn’t can help you focus your energy on the homes that give you the best chance to negotiate.

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 kind of market focus less on speed and more on strategy.

As you navigate your options, it can help to focus on a few key approaches:

• Take time to understand local pricing and recent sales

• Pay attention to homes that have been listed longer

• Be clear about your priorities and budget comfort

• Make offers that balance value with reasonable flexibility

Trying to perfectly time the market rarely works. Making a thoughtful decision that fits your financial goals and lifestyle is more likely to result in the outcome you want.

The Bottom Line for You as a Buyer in Staten Island

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

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

If you’re considering buying a home in Staten Island, this could be a good time to explore what’s possible. Even if you’re still early in the process, understanding how the market is changing can help you feel more confident about your next steps.

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Joseph Ranola | Five-Star Staten Island & South Brooklyn Realtor® (40+ Google reviews)
Associate Broker · Real Broker | Team Leader · Bridge & Boro Team
Serving 103xx and 11209 / 11214 / 11228 | $30M+ closed volume
📞 917-716-1496 | ranolarealestate.com