The spring housing market is here, and if you’re thinking about buying or selling, you’ve probably heard plenty of predictions, opinions, and advice. Some of it is useful. Some of it, not so much.
So, what’s the real story? Realtor.com’s Chief Economist, Danielle Hale, recently shared advice with her own neighbor about buying a home—advice that every buyer and seller needs to hear.
Here’s what you actually need to know about the 2025 spring market, based on data from Zillow and expert insights from Hale herself.
1. Timing the Market? That’s a Risky Game
Zillow’s latest research says that homes listed in late May sell for $5,600 more on average. That stat makes headlines every year, but here’s what most people miss:
- In 2022, March was the best month to sell.
- In 2023, it was June.
- In 2025? No one knows for sure, because mortgage rates, local demand, and inventory play a bigger role than the calendar.
Danielle Hale backed this up when giving advice to her neighbor:
“There are always reasons to be uncertain in the housing market. My advice…is to keep your eyes open and when you see the home that is a good fit to go for it.”
Trying to outsmart the housing market is like trying to predict the stock market—it rarely works.
2. Serious Buyers Are Always Looking
A common myth is that most buyers don’t start house hunting until late spring. In reality, serious buyers are already looking.
Mortgage rate volatility means that buyers are jumping in and out of the market all year long. They’re not waiting for May—they’re waiting for an opportunity.
The takeaway? If you’re selling, don’t assume waiting for May will bring better buyers. The right buyer could be searching for your home right now.
3. Mortgage Rates Matter More Than the Season
This is the real wild card. If rates drop, buyers flood the market—no matter the time of year. If rates rise, demand cools off—even in a so-called “hot” market.
That’s why Hale told her neigh
bor to stop worrying about short-term fluctuations and instead focus on long-term plans. If you plan to stay in a home for at least five years, trying to time the market perfectly isn’t worth the stress.
For sellers, this means one thing: If buyers see an opportunity, they’ll jump—regardless of whether it’s May, March, or July. The question isn’t when you list; it’s how competitive you make your home.
4. Local Insights Matter Most
One of the biggest mistakes buyers and sellers make is trusting national headlines instead of understanding their local market.
Zillow found that the best time to sell varies widely by city. In San Diego and Austin, the peak selling period starts as early as March. In Phoenix, sellers don’t hit peak pricing until November, and in Orlando, the “seasonal bump” is small—just 0.9%.
Meanwhile, inventory is rising in some areas and staying tight in others. The Northeast is still short on homes. The South and West have more new construction, which means more options for buyers.
Danielle Hale summed it up perfectly:
“You want to look at national numbers to understand the broader context, but what really matters is what’s happening in your market.”
So what’s happening in Staten Island? Here are some quick housing market stats:
- Inventory: DOWN 25% year over year.
- Median Sale Price: UP 12% year over year.
- Days on Market: 77 days.
Want a deeper dive into market stats for your neighborhood? CONTACT ME HERE, and I’ll compile the data for you.
5. The Right Listing Strategy Can Make or Break Your Sale Price
A lot of sellers focus on when to list. But how you list is just as important—maybe more.
Zillow’s research found that:
- Homes listed on the MLS sell for 1.5% more than off-market listings.
- Homes with high-quality photos, 3D tours, and interactive floor plans sell for 2% more.
- Homes with in-demand features—like remodeled interiors, outdoor TVs, or bluestone patios—can command thousands more in offers.
That’s why sellers who maximize exposure and highlight the right features will get top dollar—no matter the month.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway from both Zillow’s research and Hale’s advice is that you shouldn’t wait around for the “perfect” moment.
For buyers: If you find a home that meets your needs and budget—and you plan to stay put for a while—go for it.
For sellers: If you’re ready to sell, focus on strategy, not just timing.
The market doesn’t wait for anyone, and the best deals go to those who are prepared to act.
