Split Housing Market: How To Adjust Your Strategy Now

There is a clear split in today’s housing market. Some areas are buyer friendly while others remain seller strong. In Tampa Bay, the plan changes by neighborhood and price range across Hillsborough and Pinellas. Watch our quick overview: September 2025 Market Update | How buyers and sellers can win now.

Inventory sets the stage

When active listings rise, buyers gain options and leverage. In parts of our market, more inventory means room to negotiate clean terms and targeted credits. If you are selling, pricing and presentation must be precise because shoppers can compare similar homes nearby. For a practical pricing framework, read Unlock Your Home’s Real Value and Price With Confidence This Fall.‍

‍Realtor.com’s monthly market trends

Prices follow supply

Where inventory is higher, price growth often cools, which helps qualified buyers compete without stretching. Sellers should anchor list price to the freshest pendings and nearby actives, then adjust early if traffic and feedback signal a mismatch.

FHFA House Price Index summary

Time on market tells you leverage

Homes tend to take longer to sell in areas with more supply. Buyers can use that time to secure inspections, rate buydowns, and credits. Sellers can shorten days on market by tightening launch quality, access, and price precision.

What this means for local buyers

1. Refresh preapproval so numbers reflect today’s rates and payment.
2. Compare target homes against the newest pendings in your micro area.
3. Use credits and 2-1 or permanent buydowns when they improve total monthly cost.

Key takeaways

• Supply, prices, and days on market vary by neighborhood and price tier.
• In buyer-friendly pockets of Hillsborough and Pinellas, clean offers plus credits can win without overpaying.
• Sellers succeed with top-tier presentation and fast feedback loops when competition is nearby.