Gary Keller says we need to do more market stats and updates, so this episode is for him.
Linda McKissick and Dana Gentry open the episode by discussing listener feedback and a suggestion from Gary Keller to include more market updates. They dive into 2025 real estate statistics, starting with positive December trends like a 16% year-over-year increase in purchase applications. The median sales price broke $405,000 for the first time. A key insight is the median age for repeat buyers being 62, with 19% moving to be closer to family. Single women made up 21% of buyers, a historic high, while first-time buyers dropped to a historic low of 21% with an average age of 40. Buyers' reasons for hiring agents shifted, with 50% now seeking help to find homes. Sellers' top need is marketing, though the hosts caution against over-marketing poorly priced homes. Predictions for 2026 include a 4-6% sales increase and rates of 5-6%, with a stronger 2027 expected. The hosts stress the importance of agents using data tools, like laminated interest rate graphs, to educate clients. They discuss market variability by location and the need for agents to adapt skills rather than wait for market changes. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes about weather and a call for listener suggestions.
