NYC Ranked Among Top 10 Best Markets for Homebuyers: Survey Reveals
With spring around the corner, house hunters are getting welcome news: more U.S. metros are shifting into buyer’s market territory, offering increased inventory and stronger negotiating power.
According to recent Realtor.com® research, economists identified the top 10 strongest buyer’s markets across the U.S. by analyzing metros with the highest months of supply as of October 2025.
The months of supply metric estimates how long it would take for all homes currently listed on the market—including pending sales—to sell at the current pace. When supply exceeds six months, it typically signals a buyer’s market, meaning inventory outweighs demand and buyers gain leverage.
“These markets are considered buyer’s markets because they have more than six months of housing supply, indicating that inventory levels are high relative to current demand and giving buyers greater negotiating power,” says Hannah Jones, senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com.
Many of the strongest buyer’s markets are concentrated in the Sun Belt, where new construction has expanded housing supply significantly in recent years.
New York City Ranks No. 5
Coming in at No. 5 on the list, New York City stands out with:
- • Median listing price: $749,939
- • Months of supply: 7.1
Crossing the six-month threshold places NYC firmly in buyer’s market territory—an important shift for a city historically known for competitive bidding and limited inventory.
“In New York City, buyers are absolutely getting off the bench and making moves,” says Nikki Beauchamp, associate broker with Sotheby’s International Realty.
Beauchamp advises buyers to carefully evaluate properties that have been on the market for 60 to 90 days or longer, as extended time on market often provides opportunities to negotiate pricing and terms.
What This Means for Buyers
Higher inventory levels offer several advantages:
- • More options to compare properties
- • Reduced likelihood of bidding wars
- • Greater ability to negotiate price, concessions, or terms
- • More time to make informed decisions
National data also suggests a broader shift, with sellers outnumbering buyers in many markets—further strengthening buyer leverage.
While NYC’s median price remains elevated compared to other regions, a buyer’s market doesn’t necessarily mean lower prices—it means increased access, flexibility, and negotiating power.
Strategic Tips for NYC Buyers
- • Target listings with extended days on market
- • Review recent price reductions
- • Negotiate closing costs or concessions
- • Work with a local expert who understands micro-market trends
As the spring market unfolds, New York City buyers may find themselves in one of the most favorable negotiating positions seen in years.
What This Means for Sellers
While increased inventory creates opportunity for buyers, it also signals a more competitive environment for sellers. With 7.1 months of supply in New York City, homes are facing longer days on market and more discerning buyers.
In a buyer’s market, pricing strategy becomes critical. Overpriced listings are more likely to sit, prompting price reductions and weakening negotiating position. Sellers who price accurately from the start—and present their property in its best possible condition—tend to generate stronger interest and better outcomes.
Buyers today are taking their time, comparing options, and negotiating terms. This may include requests for concessions, closing cost credits, or inspection-related adjustments. Sellers should be prepared for thoughtful negotiations rather than multiple-offer bidding wars.
However, well-prepared properties in desirable neighborhoods still attract serious buyers. Strategic staging, professional marketing, and realistic pricing remain key to standing out in a market with expanding inventory.
In short, while the leverage may be shifting toward buyers, sellers who adapt quickly and position their homes competitively can still achieve strong results.
