After two years of sticker shock, 2025 is finally throwing buyers a bone. With 30-year fixed rates largely holding in the mid-6% range as of August 12, 2025, showing activity has cooled just enough to shift leverage back toward well-qualified buyers. That dynamic is popping up nationwide: more price reductions, more builder incentives, and more seller concessions at the closing table.

Forecasts aren’t calling for a return to ultra-low rates, but many reputable outlooks cluster around the mid-6s through year-end. Translation: affordability improves at the margins, and motivated buyers get opportunities—especially on homes that have lingered on the market or need light updates.

How to play it (quick tips):

• Shop lenders, then negotiate: Use competing Loan Estimates to squeeze points and fees.

• Ask for a buydown: With inventory outpacing demand in several metros, temporary buydowns are back.

• Target “stale but solid”: Homes 20+ days on market that only need cosmetic fixes often price most flexibly.

In Central Florida, we’re seeing a wider gap between aspirational list prices and contract prices on dated homes. If you’re patient and paperwork-ready, you can secure credits for repairs and a buydown without overpaying.