Author

Shelly Salas

The real estate market is changing, affecting how long it takes to buy or sell a home. This blog explores why homes are staying on the market longer, with specific insights from Bell and Coryell counties. Discover how choosing the right real estate agent for better representation can significantly impact your buying or selling experience.

Homes in Bell County are staying on the market longer compared to last year. In July 2024, homes were on the market nearly 49% longer than in July 2023. This extended time frame reflects various factors, such as fewer buyers due to higher interest rates and home prices that, although stabilizing, remain high in the eyes of buyers. 

Similarly, in August 2024, Bell County experienced a 23% increase in days on market compared to August 2023. While this percentage is smaller than July’s, it still signals that homes are taking longer to sell, regardless of the month.

In Coryell County, homes also stayed on the market longer, but the increase was more modest—about 14% for July and similar for August. While the rise isn’t as large as in Bell County, it still shows that careful planning is needed when selling a home.

With homes staying on the market longer, sellers should be more selective when choosing their real estate agent. Hiring someone based on a referral or personal connection may not be enough. Sellers need an agent who knows the local market well and can provide accurate advice tailored to current conditions. In Bell County and Coryell County, where homes are staying on the market for extended periods, a knowledgeable agent can offer valuable insights on pricing and strategy to help sell a home more effectively. Ignoring expert recommendations, data-driven advice, especially regarding pricing, can result in homes lingering on the market longer than necessary. 

For buyers, recent changes in regulations also play a key role. Agents must now have signed agreements before showing homes. This new rule aims to make the buying process clearer, ensuring buyers understand the agent’s role, fees, and services upfront. Partnering with a skilled local agent can help buyers navigate these new requirements and make well-informed decisions in a market where homes are staying on the market longer.

Both sellers and buyers need to be aware of market trends and the importance of strong representation. Days on market are increasing in Bell and Coryell counties, but with the right agent, you can make informed decisions. As a seller, trust your agent’s expertise; as a buyer, embrace the transparency that today’s real estate regulations offer. Whether you’re selling or buying, understanding these factors will help you navigate the real estate market more effectively.