📊 Interest Rates, Inventory & Strategy: May Market Moves to Watch

Spring is heating up—and so is the real estate market. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply watching the numbers, May is a pivotal month to make strategic moves. With shifting interest rates, fluctuating inventory, and local competition rising in Arizona, being informed means being empowered.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening right now—and what it means for your next real estate move.

💰 1. Interest Rates: Still a Wild Card

Mortgage rates remain the most-watched metric in 2025. After climbing in early spring, rates have started to fluctuate again—hovering between 6.25% and 6.75% depending on credit and loan type.

What This Means:

• Buyers: Lock in rates sooner if you’re ready. Even a small increase could mean hundreds more per month.

• Sellers: Be aware that rising rates can reduce buyer affordability, affecting your pool of offers.

Pro Tip: A good lender can help buyers strategize with rate buydowns or temporary buydown programs. Ask us for a referral!

🏘️ 2. Inventory: Slight Uptick, But Still Tight

We’re seeing a modest increase in listings compared to early 2025, especially in areas like Queen Creek, Mesa, and Gilbert. However, inventory remains historically low—meaning multiple-offer situations are still common on well-priced homes.

What This Means:

• Buyers: Be prepared to move quickly, but don’t skip due diligence. Focus on homes that fit your long-term needs.

• Sellers: Well-staged, accurately priced homes are still moving fast—often with strong offers and fewer concessions.

Hot Tip: Homes priced under the local median tend to receive the most traffic. Position accordingly!

🧠 3. Strategy: It’s All About Timing + Preparation

Whether you’re entering or exiting the market, May is all about being prepared and proactive. School’s out soon, job relocations are increasing, and families are aiming to close before summer—making this a peak opportunity.

Smart Moves:

• Buyers: Get fully pre-approved (not just pre-qualified), and have your agent monitor “Coming Soon” and off-market listings.

• Sellers: Don’t wait until June. List in May to beat the surge and take advantage of buyer urgency.

📍 Arizona Spotlight: Mesa, Queen Creek, & San Tan Valley

These fast-growing cities remain high-demand for buyers seeking value, new construction, or retirement-friendly options.

• New developments = opportunity, but demand is strong.

• Families love school access, parks, and lower property taxes.

• Inventory is tightest under $500K—those homes go FAST.

🛠️ Bonus Tips for May:

✅ Buyers: Use your tax refund to boost your down payment or cover closing costs.
✅ Sellers: Consider pre-listing inspections and light updates (paint, landscaping, lighting) to stand out.
✅ Everyone: Watch rate trends weekly. Even a 0.25% drop or increase can shift your buying power.

🎯 Bottom Line: May Moves Require Strategy

The May market isn’t slowing down. But with smart planning, trusted guidance, and real-time insight, you can make the most of it—whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or prepping to list.

📞 Let’s talk strategy. I’ll help you understand your market, options, and timing—so you can move forward with confidence.
🛠️ Real Estate Done Differently™