While spring may still be a few weeks away on the calendar, the spring market is officially beginning. We’re already seeing the seasonal shift take place. Inventory is ticking up, buyer activity is increasing, and the early momentum that sets the tone for the entire year is building. This is the start of the spring market, and those who move early often gain the biggest advantage.

For buyers, many are waiting for two things: slightly lower mortgage rates and more homes to hit the market. But here’s what most people don’t realize, getting in at the very beginning of the spring surge can be more strategic than waiting for it to fully heat up.

Mortgage rate forecasts across the industry project rates to remain relatively stable this year, hovering in the low-6% range. Rates have already improved compared to last year, and waiting for a dramatic drop may not be the winning strategy many hope for. As more buyers re-enter the market this spring, competition naturally increases. And with competition comes pressure.

Data consistently shows that homes sell more slowly in late winter than they do in peak spring. As we move deeper into March and April, days on market shrink, bidding wars become more common, and buyers are forced to move faster and make quicker decisions. Buying at the front edge of the spring market often means more breathing room, stronger negotiating power, and in many cases, better pricing before demand pushes values upward.

Prices historically respond to competition. As more buyers enter the market in late spring and early summer, prices tend to rise accordingly. Getting in early isn’t about rushing, it’s about positioning yourself ahead of the curve. For sellers, this shift presents a powerful opportunity.

We’re seeing buyer demand increase before inventory has fully flooded the market. That means serious buyers are actively watching and ready. Listing now or preparing to list in the coming weeks allows you to capture early demand before you’re competing against the full wave of spring inventory.

February and early March are often about smart preparation and strategic timing. The homes that shine in April are being prepped right now. Understanding pricing, making thoughtful improvements, and launching at the right moment can create strong leverage.

Every year, the early market tells us what’s ahead - how quickly homes are moving, how aggressive buyers are becoming, and where pricing is trending. Right now, the signal is clear: the spring market is beginning.

Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply staying informed, this is the moment to lean in. Getting in early allows buyers to move with less pressure and gives sellers the opportunity to meet rising demand before the market becomes more crowded.

Market Updates

In January ‘26, homes spent a median of 17 days on market, slightly up from 15 days in January ’25. Year over year sales were slower, with 665 homes sold compared to 792 last January. Despite lower sales volume, prices continue to rise. The average sale price increased 5.87% year over year to $408,142, up from $385,508 in January ‘25.

Inventory declined 30% since September ‘25, consistent with normal winter trends. However, early signs of the spring market are emerging. New listings are rising, buyer activity is increasing, and so is competition.

Mortgage rates dipped below 6%, fueling buyer confidence. The $300,000–$399,999 price range remains the most active, with 135 sales and 276 new listings in January.

Strategic positioning is more important than ever. Well-priced, move-in ready homes are selling quickly, often with multiple offers, while overpriced properties are lingering and seeing price reductions. As spring momentum builds, both buyers and sellers have an opportunity to get ahead of the market.

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