NEWS

Home Sales & Prices:

• In November 2025, the Southwestern Michigan housing market saw slightly fewer transactions compared with the previous year, but prices continued to climb. Average selling prices jumped around 14–16% year-over-year, and median prices rose about 8% — marking several consecutive years of annual price growth. swmar.com

Inventory & Supply:

• Inventory remains relatively tight: supply hovered near 5.1 months, slightly lower than earlier in the year, giving buyers some more choice than during past seller-heavy conditions but still below a strong buyer’s market. swmar.com

Market Nuances by Area:

• Local data from mid-2025 showed sales were down modestly in some months while inventory and prices rose — a sign the market was cooling without losing value. swmar.com

• In Cass County specifically, March 2025 sales volume dipped and prices varied between waterfront and non-waterfront homes, illustrating that sub-regional differences remain significant within Southwest Michigan. swmarmembers.org

📈 Looking Ahead to 2026: Trends Shaping the Local Market

📉 More Balanced, Less Frenzied

• National forecasts indicate gradual improvement in inventory and a shift toward more balanced buyer/seller conditions in 2026 rather than dramatic price spikes or crashes. Chicago Agent Magazine

• Mortgage rates have eased from recent peaks — the 30-year fixed was recently averaging around 6.15% — which may help attract more buyers off the sidelines. Money

💰 Home Price Growth — Steady, Not Explosive

• Models like Zillow’s national outlook suggest modest price increases (around ~1–2% nationally), and while local Southwest Michigan prices might not rise that slowly given recent double-digit gains, broader market moderation is expected. Zillow

• Continued price gains are expected, but at a slower clip than the sharp increases seen in 2021–2023. Local experts expect steady, manageable growth rather than sudden spikes. 

🧱 Inventory Could Improve Slowly

• Analysts project that as mortgage costs stabilize and more sellers list homes (including those who delayed moving during high-rate periods), inventory levels may rise modestly through 2026 — which could ease competitive pressures for buyers in markets like Kalamazoo, Berrien, and Allegan counties. 

🧠 Market Signals & Local Impacts

📊 Buyers

• More homes are listed than a couple of years ago, and increasing supply could give buyers better negotiating leverage than during the peak seller market.

• Mortgage affordability still matters — even with rates easing slightly, rates near 6% remain higher than the historic lows of the early 2020s.

📍 Sellers

• Local home values have set new nominal records, and sellers can still benefit from strong pricing — but should expect longer time on market and be prepared for negotiations.

• Homes priced close to market value and in strong condition will likely see the most interest.

📌 Overall

• South-west Michigan’s housing market appears poised for “soft landing” dynamics in 2026: moderate price growth, slowly improving inventory, and a shift from strictly seller-dominated conditions toward a more balanced marketplace.

• Buyers may find more opportunities, and sellers should prepare for a market that rewards realistic pricing and good presentation.

🗺️ In Summary: What to Watch in 2026

📍 Inventory: Expected to creep up as more homes enter the market.
📍 Prices: Growth likely to slow, not reverse — continuing upward but at a more sustainable pace.
📍 Rates: Mortgage costs may moderate further, drawing more first-time and move-up buyers.
📍 Market Balance: A shift toward equilibrium between buyers and sellers could make 2026 a strategic year for transactions — especially for local Southwest Michigan buyers who paused in prior years due to low inventory and high prices.

Best Practices to Stage Your Home to Sell in 2025

If you're planning to sell your home in 2025, you're entering a market that’s competitive, fast-moving, and highly visual. Today’s buyers are savvy, often starting their home search online, where first impressions happen within seconds. That’s why staging your home effectively is more important than ever. Whether you’re hiring a professional or doing it yourself, here are the top best practices for staging your home to sell in 2025.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize

Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home — not feel like they’re intruding in someone else’s. Clear countertops, pack away personal photos, remove excess furniture, and organize closets and storage areas. In 2025, minimalism is still trending, and a clean, open space always feels more inviting.

2. Neutral, Modern Color Palettes

Paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective updates. Stick to light, neutral colors like warm whites, soft greys, or taupes. These tones make rooms feel larger and provide a blank canvas for buyers. In 2025, earth tones and natural textures are in — think soft sage, creamy beige, and touches of matte black or bronze accents.

3. Highlight Flexible Living Spaces

Post-pandemic homebuyers continue to value flexible spaces. Stage a nook as a home office or turn an underused corner into a cozy reading area. If you have a spare bedroom, set it up to showcase its potential as a guest room, nursery, or hobby space. Show off how adaptable your home can be.

4. Focus on Curb Appeal

First impressions start at the curb. Make sure your lawn is tidy, your entryway is welcoming, and your exterior paint or siding is in good condition. Add a fresh welcome mat, seasonal potted plants, and updated light fixtures to give your home a polished look from the outside.

5. Maximize Natural Light

Light sells homes. Open blinds and curtains, clean your windows inside and out, and use mirrors strategically to reflect light and make rooms feel more spacious. In darker areas, consider adding modern LED lighting with warm tones to keep the home feeling cozy and bright.

6. Stage Key Rooms with Purpose

The living room, kitchen, primary bedroom, and bathrooms are the most influential areas for buyers. Make these rooms shine by investing time (and maybe a little money) into staging them well. Add fresh towels and greenery to the bathroom, use layered bedding in the bedroom, and keep kitchen counters spotless.

7. Smart Tech Touches

In 2025, buyers appreciate small signs of tech-savvy homes. A staged smart thermostat, touchless faucet, or smart lighting system adds a subtle but impactful edge. Don’t overdo it, but a few modern updates can go a long way in impressing younger, tech-friendly buyers.

8. Create an Inviting Scent

Smell matters more than you might think. Avoid heavy perfumes or artificial fragrances. Instead, aim for clean, subtle scents like citrus, eucalyptus, or fresh linen. Baking cookies before a showing is still a classic trick for a reason!

9. Professional Photography & Virtual Tours

Once your home is staged, make sure it’s captured beautifully. Hire a professional real estate photographer who understands lighting, angles, and composition. In 2025, many buyers rely heavily on virtual tours or 3D walkthroughs, so make sure your listing is visually compelling from every angle.

10. Keep It Clean — Always

Once your home hits the market, keep it in show-ready condition. This might mean daily tidying, wiping down surfaces, and minimizing clutter. It can be inconvenient, but a clean, staged home sells faster and often for more money.

Final Thoughts:Staging your home in 2025 means understanding what today’s buyers want — clean, light-filled, move-in-ready homes with modern comforts and timeless appeal. With a bit of effort and attention to detail, you can make your home stand out in a crowded market and attract strong offers from the right buyers.

Thinking of selling this year? Start with staging — it’s your secret weapon.

The real estate market in 2025 offers both challenges and opportunities for buyers. With changing economic conditions, technological advancements, and evolving buyer preferences, it’s crucial to approach the process with a clear strategy. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, here’s everything you need to know about purchasing real estate in 2025.

1. The State of the 2025 Real Estate Market

The housing market in 2025 is influenced by several factors:

• Interest Rates: After fluctuating in recent years, mortgage rates have stabilized but remain higher than the historically low rates of the early 2020s. Buyers should shop around for competitive rates and consider adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) if they expect future rate drops.

• Inventory Levels: Inventory remains tight in many markets due to limited new construction and strong demand. However, some regions, especially suburban and exurban areas, are seeing an increase in available properties.

• Sustainability Trends: Energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes are more in demand than ever. Buyers should consider properties with features like solar panels, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances, which add long-term value.

2. Technology’s Role in Real Estate Transactions

Technology has revolutionized the way people buy homes:

• Virtual Tours and AI Assistance: Tools like virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) make it easier to tour homes and get personalized property recommendations without leaving your couch.

• Blockchain for Secure Transactions: Blockchain technology ensures more secure and transparent property transactions, reducing the risks of fraud.

• Digital Closings: Many states now allow fully remote closings, saving time and making the process more convenient.

Buyers in 2025 should embrace these tools to streamline their property search and purchase experience.

3. Tips for Buying Real Estate in 2025

• Set a Budget and Stick to It: Rising home prices mean you’ll need a clear understanding of your financial limits. Use online calculators to determine affordability and factor in higher interest rates and taxes.

• Prioritize Location: Consider areas with strong job growth, good schools, and planned infrastructure developments. These locations often provide better long-term returns.

• Be Prepared to Act Fast: In competitive markets, being pre-approved for a mortgage and having a clear idea of what you want can help you secure a property quickly.

• Inspect for Resilience: Homes in areas prone to natural disasters should be inspected for features like hurricane-proof windows, elevated foundations, or fire-resistant materials.

4. The Rise of Alternative Housing Options

In 2025, many buyers are exploring alternatives to traditional single-family homes:

• Co-Living Spaces: These are popular among younger buyers looking for affordability and community.

• Tiny Homes and Modular Builds: These options are budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and increasingly accepted in many municipalities.

• Multi-Generational Living: With the rising cost of housing, multi-generational homes are becoming more common, offering shared expenses and family support.

5. Working With Professionals

Even with technology, having the right team is essential:

• Real Estate Agents: Look for agents familiar with local markets and emerging trends.

• Mortgage Brokers: A broker can help you find the best financing options tailored to your needs.

• Real Estate Attorneys: In complex transactions, an attorney ensures all paperwork is in order and protects your interests.

6. What to Expect in the Future

As the market continues to evolve, keep an eye on these potential trends:

• Government Policies: New incentives for first-time buyers and green home improvements may emerge.

• Urban Redevelopment: Cities are focusing on affordable housing and mixed-use developments, providing more opportunities for buyers.

• AI-Driven Market Insights: Real estate platforms will offer even more precise data to help buyers make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Buying real estate in 2025 requires adaptability, preparation, and a keen eye on market trends. With the right strategy and tools, you can navigate this dynamic market and secure a property that meets your needs and builds long-term wealth.

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, 2025 is a year of opportunity. Stay informed, leverage technology, and work with trusted professionals to make your real estate dreams a reality.