If concerns about bidding wars have been holding you back from entering the housing market, there’s encouraging news—your chances of encountering intense competition have dropped considerably.

While homes with multiple offers haven’t vanished entirely, they’re no longer as widespread. In fact, according to a recent survey, only 1 in 5 homes (20%) nationally received multiple offers in June 2025. That’s a significant improvement from the nearly 1 in 3 (31%) reported the previous year—and even more striking when compared to June 2023, where 39% of homes faced bidding wars (see graph below).

This shift translates into a more relaxed buying experience. With fewer buyers competing for each home, you have more time to weigh your options, negotiate better terms, and possibly secure a more favorable price.

It Still Depends on Where You’re Buying

While national averages are promising, it’s important to remember that real estate is local. Regional trends can differ dramatically, and understanding your specific market is crucial. A second graph—based on data from John Burns Research & Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM)—highlights how varied things can be across different parts of the country.

For example, in the Northeast, roughly 34% of homes (about 1 in 3) are still receiving multiple offers—higher than the national average. However, in the Southeast, only 6% of homes are experiencing bidding wars.

This difference largely comes down to inventory. Areas with limited housing supply continue to see strong competition, while markets with more available listings are experiencing cooler conditions. That means fewer bidding wars and more opportunities for buyers.

Sellers Are More Flexible Than You Might Think

Another positive development for buyers is the growing willingness of sellers to negotiate. According to a recent Redfin report, nearly half of all sellers are making concessions—like covering a buyer’s closing costs or adjusting their asking price to encourage offers.

This is a major change from the highly competitive market of a few years ago, when sellers held most of the power. Back then, it wasn’t uncommon for buyers to waive inspections or appraisals in hopes of standing out. Today, the landscape has shifted, and sellers are more open to working with buyers to get a deal done.

Of course, how common these concessions are depends on your local market. That’s why working with a knowledgeable local agent is essential—they’ll help you understand what’s typical in your area and guide you through the process.

Bottom Line

If you’ve been hesitant to start your home search because of fears about bidding wars, now might be the right time to reconsider. Competition is easing in many markets, and more sellers are offering incentives to attract buyers. This creates a more balanced playing field, giving you more control and confidence in your homebuying journey.

Curious about what the market looks like in your area? Reach out to Mike Panza and the team at Panza Home Group for expert guidance tailored to your local market. You can always contact them directly here: https://panzarealestate.com/team/mike-panza