Are Buyers Still Out There? Here’s Your Answer.

If you’ve been wondering whether buyers are still in the market, the answer is simple: yes.

And they’re searching online more than they have in the past two years.

Even before last week’s big mortgage rate news (ICYMI, rates dipped to 6.55% on August 7), online searches for “homes for sale” were climbing fast in July. That means plenty of people were already serious about finding their next home.

The kicker? After that dip, mortgage applications jumped.

And now, rates have dropped again. On August 13, they reached a new low for 2025—slipping to 6.53%, according to Mortgage News Daily.

Translation: Buyer motivation isn’t just alive—it’s gaining momentum.

Google Search Trends

Google Trends tracks the popularity of specific search phrases over time. Two big ones—“homes for sale” and “houses for sale”—hit a two-year high in July, back when mortgage rates were still in the high 6s.

That’s important because online searches are often the first sign of rising demand. Before buyers schedule showings or call an agent, they typically start by browsing online.

Mortgage Applications Are Rising

Fast forward to August: mortgage rates dropped, and buyers immediately responded. According to the MBA’s Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey, purchase applications rose 1% from the week before and were 17% higher than the same week last year.

This jump came right after rates moved down—proof that even a small change in affordability gets buyers’ attention, and they act quickly.

Why This Matters for Sellers

More buyers in the market can translate to:

• More showings. A larger buyer pool increases the chances your home gets noticed.

• Stronger competition. Even a few motivated buyers can create a bidding environment.

While today’s market isn’t moving at the breakneck speed we saw during the pandemic, you don’t need dozens of offers to achieve a strong result. You just need the right buyer—and right now, that buyer could already be searching.

How to Take Advantage of the Momentum

If you’re considering selling, here are a few steps to make the most of rising buyer activity:

• Get a market analysis. Understand what your home could sell for in today’s market.

• Make small updates. Simple improvements can help your home shine without breaking the budget.

• Plan your marketing. Professional photos, staging, and a strong online presence will set you apart—especially now, as more buyers are actively searching.

If you want your home to be part of the action, now’s the time to start the conversation. Motivated buyers are out there, and they’re ready to act when the right home comes along.