Buyers Are Quietly Searching (& Rates Just Sweetened The Deal)

If you've been wondering whether buyers are still out there, here's your answer: yes.

And they're looking more online than they have in two years.

Even before last week's big mortgage interest rates news (ICYMI, rates dipped to 6.55% on August 7), online searches for "homes for sale" were climbing fast in July. That means plenty of people were already getting serious about finding their next home, despite fluctuating housing prices.

The kicker? After that dip, mortgage applications jumped.

And now, rates just dropped again. On August 13, they hit a new low of 2025, decreasing to 6.53%, according to Mortgage News Daily. This trend aligns with recent mortgage rate predictions suggesting a potential easing in the housing finance market.

Translation: buyer motivation isn't just alive… it's picking up speed, which could impact property values.

Google Search Trends

Google Trends tracks the popularity of specific search phrases over time. And two big ones, "homes for sale" and "houses for sale," both hit a two-year high in July, back when mortgage rates were still in the high 6s.

That's huge, because online search activity is often the first sign that demand is building. Before buyers tour homes or call real estate professionals, they start by quietly browsing online.

Mortgage Applications Are on the Rise

Fast forward to August, and we saw mortgage rates drop, and buyers immediately started taking advantage. According to the MBA's Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey, purchase applications were up 1% from the week before and 17% higher than the same week last year.

This increase came right after the rate drop, which tells us one thing: when housing finance becomes even slightly more affordable, buyers notice and they move quickly. This trend also suggests that current mortgage lending practices are adapting to meet buyer demand.

Why This Matters for Sellers

More buyers in the market means more potential interest in your home. That can lead to:

• More showings. A bigger buyer pool increases the chances your home gets noticed.

• Better competition. Even a few motivated buyers can create a bidding environment, potentially boosting home price growth.

While the market isn't moving at the lightning pace we saw during the pandemic, you don't need a dozen offers to get a great result. You just need the right buyer. And right now, that buyer could already be searching, influenced by recent housing market predictions.

How to Take Advantage of the Momentum

If you're thinking about selling, here are a few steps to help you make the most of this uptick in buyer interest:

1. Get a market analysis. Find out what your home could sell for in today's market and how much home equity you've built.

2. Make small updates. Simple fixes can help your home show its best without a huge investment.

3. Plan your marketing. Professional photos, staging, and strong online presence will help you stand out, especially when more buyers are searching online.

4. Stay informed about mortgage rate trends. Understanding these trends can help you time your sale and negotiate effectively.

If you want your home to be part of the action, now's the time to start the conversation. Motivated buyers are out there, and they're ready to act when the right home comes along. With current mortgage interest rates showing favorable trends and positive housing market predictions, it's an opportune time for sellers to enter the market.

Remember, working with experienced real estate professionals can help you navigate the complexities of selling in today's dynamic market. They can provide valuable insights on local property values and help you maximize your home's potential in light of current home price growth trends.