How can one differentiate between a buyer's market and a seller's market?

The distinction between a buyer's market and a seller's market is primarily based on the balance of supply and demand in the real estate market. In a buyer's market, the availability of homes for sale exceeds the number of buyers looking to purchase, which results in greater supply. This excess supply typically leads to lower home prices and more negotiating power for buyers.

Conversely, in a seller's market, demand outpaces supply; there are more buyers than available homes. This imbalance often drives prices upward, giving sellers the advantage in negotiations.

The understanding of these dynamics is critical for anyone involved in real estate, as it influences pricing strategies, decision-making, and negotiation tactics for both buyers and sellers. Recognizing that a buyer's market indicates an abundance of options for buyers and a seller's market suggests limited options is key to navigating real estate transactions effectively.