Spring Into the Market: Why Sellers Are Feeling the Buzz This Season

by Gemma Peterson

The flowers aren’t the only thing blooming this spring — so are seller expectations. According to a fresh survey from Realtor.com, homeowners across the country are strutting into the spring real estate market with a whole lot of confidence (and maybe a little swagger). Why? Because they believe now is the perfect time to sell — and most expect to get exactly what they’re asking for, if not more.

So, what’s behind all this sunny optimism? Let’s break it down.

💰Sellers Smell the Money — And They’re Not Wrong

A whopping 70% of potential sellers believe it's a good time to list their home. They’re not necessarily driven by the ups and downs of the market — it’s more about opportunity. Many are banking on increased home values and betting that buyers will come ready to meet asking prices.

Laura Eddy, VP of Research and Insights at Realtor.com, sums it up perfectly:

“Sellers feel confident they’ll not only sell quickly but also get top dollar.”

However, she also notes that many of these optimistic sellers have been stuck on the sidelines, waiting for the right moment — thanks to those ever-pesky mortgage rates.

🏠 Why Are People Selling? It's Not Just About the Cash

Yes, sellers are optimistic — but most aren't selling just to make a quick buck. 79% say they’re selling out of necessity. Life is shifting, and people are moving to match:

34% need more space
25% want to downsize
21% are relocating for family
18% are responding to big life events (marriage, kids, divorce)
15% are moving for work
10% can no longer afford their current home

But the most common reason? Location, location, location.
Nearly half (46%) are looking for a new community — a better neighborhood, a different vibe, or maybe just a fresh start.

🔧 Sellers Are Prepping — And They're Not Playing Around

Today's sellers aren't just thinking about selling — they’re doing something about it. An incredible 96% have already taken steps to prepare their home for market.

What are they doing?

71% checked their home’s value
61% researched neighborhood pricing
38% have made home improvements — from a fresh coat of paint to full-on kitchen renos
65% focused on fixes that would pass inspection
59% went all in with major renovations (hello, new bathrooms)

Sellers are also taking action behind the scenes:

36% have already contacted an agent
27% have completed a home inspection
22% have listed their home or are about to

🧠 Strategy Meets Reality: Mortgage Rates Are Still a Thing

Here’s the catch: while sellers are excited, many feel trapped by their current mortgage.

61% have been thinking about selling for over a year
66% plan to buy another home after selling
And of those with a mortgage, half feel “locked in” by high interest rates

For those dreaming of a move, it’s a mental tug-of-war. High rates = hesitation. But there’s a twist…

43% of sellers who think rates will increase are now more likely to sell (better now than worse later!)
69% of sellers who think rates will decrease are also more likely to sell (gotta time it right!)

Either way, interest rates are a key factor in decision-making.

📍Real Estate Is Still All About Location

Attitudes vary by region — and so do housing conditions:

Northeast: The most bullish region, with 80% saying it’s a great time to sell
West: Sellers here are most likely to expect above asking price
South & Midwest: More moderate optimism, but still strong demand

Realtor.com research shows that the Northeast is severely undersupplied, and slower new listings are adding fuel to sellers' confidence.

🏁 The Bottom Line

This spring, sellers are hopeful, strategic, and ready to make their move. They're painting walls, replacing cabinets, studying comps, and calling up agents. And with buyer demand still outpacing supply in many markets, they’ve got reason to feel good.

But mortgage rates are still playing the role of spoiler, especially for those looking to buy again. It’s a delicate dance — but one thing’s clear:

Spring 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting season for sellers.
Whether you’re just curious or gearing up to list, it might be time to check in with a local real estate expert. The market is moving — are you?

Want help getting your home ready to shine this spring? Let’s chat. I’m here to make your sale as smooth (and profitable) as possible.