Redfin’s August 2026 analysis found that sellers outnumbered buyers nationally, giving many home shoppers more choice and potential negotiating leverage.
More listings are giving buyers room to compare
Redfin reported that sellers outnumbered buyers by 58% in August, the largest gap in its records. The imbalance was linked to a surge in listings while buyer demand remained broadly stagnant. For home shoppers, a larger pool of available properties can make it easier to compare condition, pricing and terms rather than committing immediately. Generic guidance: Buyers should still review comparable sales, obtain financing approval and inspect a home before deciding whether to negotiate or make an offer.
The advantage varies by market and by buyer
The strongest buyer’s markets in Redfin’s analysis were Nashville, Miami and Houston, where sellers outnumbered buyers by more than two to one; 36 of the 49 metro areas analyzed were classified as buyer’s markets. A buyer-friendly market does not automatically mean prices will fall, and affordability still determines who can participate. Generic guidance: Buyers should set a payment budget that includes taxes, insurance, maintenance and closing costs, and should not assume every seller will accept a discount—especially for a well-priced home in a desirable location.
Compare mortgage options
Personalized rates and terms vary by borrower and lender.
