A new report from Realtor.com has identified a specific week in October 2025 as the optimal time for prospective homebuyers in the United States. The analysis suggests that the week of October 12 to 18 will offer a unique combination of increased inventory, reduced competition, and lower prices, potentially saving buyers thousands of dollars.
This forecast provides a data-driven window for buyers navigating a housing market that has started to shift after several years of intense seller advantage. While conditions vary by region, the national trend points to a more favorable autumn season for those looking to purchase a home.
Key Takeaways
- Optimal National Buying Week: Realtor.com identifies October 12-18, 2025, as the best time to buy a home nationwide.
- Increased Inventory: Buyers may see up to 32.6% more active listings during this period compared to the start of the year.
- Less Competition: Competition from other buyers is projected to be 30.6% lower than peak season.
- Potential Savings: The median listing price could be 3.4% lower, translating to potential savings of up to $15,000.
- Slower Market Pace: Homes are expected to stay on the market about two weeks longer, giving buyers more time for decision-making.
A Data-Driven Approach to Homebuying
For years, homebuyers have debated the best season to purchase a property. While spring often brings more options, it also brings fierce competition. In contrast, fall and winter typically feature lower prices but fewer choices. Realtor.com's annual "Best Time to Buy" report aims to pinpoint the precise week where market conditions align most favorably for buyers.
The 2025 forecast points squarely to the second full week of October. The report's methodology analyzes seasonal trends in inventory, demand, pricing, and the time homes spend on the market to find a statistical sweet spot.
The National Outlook for October 2025
According to the analysis, the week of October 12-18 offers a compelling set of advantages for buyers across the country. The most significant factor is the projected increase in available homes. An estimated 32.6% more active listings could be on the market compared to the yearly average, giving buyers a much wider selection.
This surge in inventory is coupled with a significant drop in competition. With many families settled before the school year begins, demand is expected to decrease by 30.6%. This reduction in buyer traffic means fewer bidding wars and more negotiating power for those still in the market.
By the Numbers: The October Advantage
- Listings: Up to 32.6% more homes available.
- Competition: 30.6% fewer buyers in the market.
- Price Drop: Median listing price 3.4% lower.
- Savings: Potential to save as much as $15,000 on a median-priced home.
Price relief is another key benefit. The report forecasts a 3.4% dip in the median listing price during this week. For a median-priced home, this could result in savings of up to $15,000, a substantial sum that can help with closing costs or initial home improvements.
Regional Markets Tell a Different Story
While the national data provides a useful benchmark, real estate is fundamentally local. The report acknowledges this by providing specific forecasts for major metropolitan areas. For example, the New York metropolitan area has a different optimal buying window.
For buyers in the New York region, the best time to purchase is projected to be about a month earlier, from September 14 to 20, 2025. During this period, the market is expected to have 9.4% more active listings while competition drops by 26.7%. The median listing price is also anticipated to be 2.8% lower.
"While fall tends to offer better deals for buyers, what's considered a 'good time to buy' can really depend on the local market, especially as affordability challenges continue to shape where and how people move," the Realtor.com report states.
This highlights the importance for buyers to research their specific local market conditions, as the national peak buying week may not align perfectly with their city's unique dynamics.
A Market in Transition
The 2025 forecast arrives as the U.S. housing market undergoes a significant rebalancing. After years of record-low inventory and rapid price appreciation, conditions are beginning to normalize. The report notes that this is the first time in several years that the market is showing signs of a healthier equilibrium.
Rebalancing vs. Buyer's Market
A rebalancing market is one where conditions are moving from a strong seller's advantage toward a more neutral state. It doesn't mean it's a full buyer's market, but it does indicate that buyers are gaining more leverage, choices, and time. Inventory increases and price growth slows down.
A key indicator of this shift is the level of housing inventory. For several months, the number of active listings nationwide has surpassed 1 million homes. This is the highest level seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic began, a crucial development for buyers who have faced limited options.
This increase in supply provides what the report calls much-needed "breathing room."
What Increased Inventory Means for Buyers
- More Choices: Buyers can tour more properties that fit their criteria instead of settling for the only available option.
- Less Pressure: With more homes to choose from, there is less urgency to make a snap decision on a property.
- Negotiating Power: Sellers may be more willing to negotiate on price or agree to contingencies, such as home inspections or appraisals.
- Slower Pace: The market is expected to slow down, with homes remaining for sale for over two weeks longer than during peak season. This gives buyers ample time to conduct due diligence.
This changing environment marks a significant departure from the frenzied market of the past few years. Buyers are now in a position to be more deliberate and strategic in their search, a welcome change for many who felt sidelined by intense competition.
