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RGI Mortgage Brief

70% of Major Markets Are Tilting Toward Buyers. Could It Help You Negotiate?

70% of major metros now favor buyers or are moving that way. See the California and Oregon signals that may shape your next home offer.

Here is what this housing and mortgage update could mean for consumers. Buyers are gaining leverage in more markets, but local conditions still vary sharply. Realtor.com reports that 70% of the 100 largest metropolitan areas either favor buyers or are moving in that direction, up from 52% a year earlier.

According to Realtor.com Economic Research, housing conditions became more buyer-friendly across much of the country in the second quarter of 2026.

What the report says

Realtor.com Economic Research expanded its Market Clock analysis from 50 to 100 major U.S. metropolitan areas for the second quarter of 2026. The tool measures buyer and seller negotiating leverage, rather than mortgage rates or home affordability.

Key points to know

  • Nineteen metros are classified as buyer’s markets, while 50 are balanced but loosening toward buyers. Only four metros moved toward sellers over the past year.
  • Listing prices per square foot fell year over year in 60 of the 100 metros. Nationally, the median list price was down 2.5%, while 18.8% of listings had a price cut in June.
  • The South contains 18 of the 19 buyer’s markets. The West has one buyer’s market, while Portland, Oregon is classified as early balanced and loosening; Sacramento, San Francisco, and San Jose remain late seller’s markets.

Why it matters for buyers and homeowners

A buyer-friendly shift can improve negotiating conditions, but it does not mean homes are affordable everywhere or that every seller will discount. Buyers should compare local inventory, asking prices, price cuts, and financing costs. Sellers may face more pressure to price accurately from the start.

Important limits to keep in mind

  • The source is a company research publication, so its Market Clock conclusions and methodology should be attributed to Realtor.com Economic Research.
  • The source says the Q2 analysis covers 100 metros but excludes Rochester, leaving 99 metro readings plus the national figure.
  • The source references lower mortgage rates as one factor supporting pending sales, but it does not provide a rate figure in this report. Do not use that claim as a standalone rate update.
  • Local conditions can change monthly because Market Clock readings are updated monthly.

Bottom line: The national trend favors buyers, but the useful signal is still the specific metro and property.

Source: Realtor.com Economic Research: read the original report

This RGI Mortgage Insight is for general educational purposes only. Programs, pricing, terms, eligibility, and availability may change and remain subject to complete review and lender approval. This is not a commitment to lend.

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