Are you thinking about buying a home in the Tampa Bay area? If so, you're in luck! After a slow winter season, single-family home sales are on the rise.

Good News for Buyers: More Inventory and Less Competition

Here's what you need to know:

• Sales are Up: Compared to last year, May 2024 saw a 1.7% increase in single-family home sales across Tampa Bay (including Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater). This follows an even bigger jump of 5.5% in April, marking the first positive trend after several months of decline.

• More Choices: If you missed out on the bidding wars of 2021 and 2022, you're in for a treat. The number of active listings has surged by a whopping 77.6% year-over-year. This means more options for you and less competition from other buyers.

• Faster Buying Process: Gone are the days of houses flying off the market within hours. The median time to secure a home under contract is now around 28 days, a much calmer pace compared to the recent frenzy.

Is it a Seller's or Buyer's Market?

Experts say the market is currently in a "no man's land" between sellers and buyers. While sellers might still expect high prices based on the past boom, rising mortgage rates are causing some hesitation.

What About Mortgage Rates?

Interest rates are a significant factor for both buyers and sellers. Here's the current situation:

• Rates are Higher: The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 6.87%, significantly higher than the historic lows of the pandemic (around 2.65%). This might make some sellers reluctant to move unless they have a strong reason, as a new mortgage could be expensive.

• Rates Might Dip: There's a possibility that rates could decrease slightly by the end of the year. However, experts advise against waiting for pre-pandemic rates.

So, Should You Buy Now?

The decision depends on your individual circumstances. Here are some things to consider:

• Strong Financial Standing: If you have a stable income and good credit, you might be able to navigate the higher interest rates.

• Long-Term Plans: If you plan to stay in the home for a long time, the initial rate hike might be less impactful in the long run.

• Finding the Right Home: With more choices available, you're more likely to find a house that meets your needs and budget.

Tampa Bay's real estate market is showing signs of a healthy shift. If you're a buyer who missed out on the crazy years and are ready to settle down, now might be a good time to start your house hunt.