First-Time Buyers Gain Negotiating Power

In today’s US market, first-time buyers have more leverage as entry-level competition eased, giving them extra time to compare homes and negotiate.
A listings platform found nationwide starter-home inventory ↑~5% yearly, while the typical entry-level home now sits near $202K and is ↑~2% yearly.
Elevated borrowing costs remained a hurdle, with 30-yr fixed mortgage rates averaging ~7% in the previous month as inflation kept pressuring household budgets.
Leverage is strongest on overpriced, lingering, or fixer-upper homes, where buyers can negotiate seller credits, closing-cost help, repairs, longer inspections, or appliances.
If a home fits your budget now, buying before rates fall could avoid a rush of returning buyers that might bring competition and higher prices.