10/29/2026
Buyers Gain Leverage, Not Affordability
As someone who's recently transitioned from decades of troubleshooting complex systems as an engineer into the world of real estate, I can’t help but notice how much the current market feels like one big puzzle—especially for buyers. Right now, with borrowing costs hovering near 7%, affordability is taking a hit for a lot of families. But on the flip side, fewer competing offers mean buyers who do qualify have more leverage at the negotiation table. That means more room to discuss price, repairs, closing costs, and even the option to walk away—something that’s not always so easy when the market is red hot. In mid-Q3, sellers outnumbered buyers by about 58%, the widest gap since 2013, which really backs up why we’re seeing more price cuts and concessions from sellers. Still, national home prices haven’t dropped dramatically; many owners are sitting on solid equity or locked into much lower mortgage rates, so they’re not feeling pressured to sell at a loss unless it’s absolutely necessary. If rates stay high, buyers could keep this extra bargaining power. But if borrowing costs drop, more buyers might jump back in, bringing back the competition and shifting the balance again. For families—especially those with unique needs—understanding this landscape is key. My goal is to help you navigate these twists and turns, using my analytical eye and personal experience to find the right fit for your situation.