Why It’s a Tough Market for Sellers, Even in a “Seller’s Market”

When you hear the phrase “seller’s market,” it sounds like smooth sailing. Low inventory, multiple offers, bidding wars—at least, that is the picture many imagine. Yet, here in Portland and across much of the metro, sellers are finding the reality more complicated. Fewer buyers, more concessions, and longer days on market are creating real challenges for those listing their homes. Yesterday, I had a For Sale By Owner ask me what I meant by "this Tough Sellers Market." Here's my response.

Supply Is Tight, but Demand Has Shifted

Yes, the number of homes for sale is still low. That is the textbook reason economists call this a seller’s market. However, demand is not what it once was. Buyers are nervous. Concerns about job security, the economy, and the direction of the government make them hesitant to commit. The result: fewer qualified buyers touring homes and more sitting on the sidelines.

What the Numbers Say

Let’s look at some data from our own backyard:

• Portland Metro: In August, the average time a home spent on the market was 62 days. That is two full weeks longer than the year before, with no corresponding increase in average sale price.

• 97220 zip code: Homes here have averaged about 40 days on the market.

• Price drops: Nearly half of the listings each week have been reducing their prices; some of the highest rate of reductions in years.

This mismatch between inventory and active buyers creates a unique kind of gridlock. Sellers can list, but they cannot expect a rush of competitive offers.

Concessions Are Back

Another defining feature of today’s market: concessions. Buyers know they have leverage, and they are not afraid to use it.

• In one recent transaction, I secured my buyer $18,780 in seller-paid closing costs on a $379,900 home—and that was before the inspection.

• In Bay City, another client purchased two lots originally listed at $60,000 each that we negotiated down to only $12,000 total.

These stories show that while homes do sell, they often close at terms heavily in the buyer’s favor.

Real Experiences on the Ground

Consider Chris and Rob, whose home I listed for 55 days. During that time, we had fewer than 15 in-person showings, no repeat visitors, and not a single offer. Eventually, they decided to rent the property until spring in hopes of a more favorable market. Their experience is not unusual. Many sellers face the same choice: accept a lower offer with significant concessions or hold off entirely.

What This Means for Sellers

Selling today requires strategy, patience, and realistic expectations. Pricing is more critical than ever; overpricing leads to quick price drops and extended time on market. Preparation and presentation matter, but so do the terms you are willing to negotiate. Closing cost coverage, inspection repairs, and creative financing support are often part of the deal now.

The Bottom Line

Yes, inventory is low. But so is buyer confidence. That combination makes this one of the most challenging “seller’s markets” in recent memory. Sellers who succeed do so by staying flexible, informed, and well-advised.

📌 Thinking about selling? Let’s build a tailored plan that accounts for today’s realities. I will help you position your home strategically, minimize concessions, and time the market to your advantage.

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