The Frozen Real Estate Market: Ski Country Aligns with National Trends

As we navigate through 2025, the U.S. real estate market continues to experience a "frozen" state, with ski country properties falling in line with national trends. This slowdown is characterized by subdued growth, decreased sales volumes, and shifting buyer behaviors.

National Market Overview

The U.S. housing market remains largely frozen, with growth expected to be subdued at 3% or less through 2025. This stagnation is evident in several key areas:

• Home Sales: Existing home sales are projected to hit around 4 million in 2025, maintaining a pace similar to the previous year.

• Home Values: Zillow predicts a modest increase of about 0.9% in home values for 2025, a significant downward revision from earlier forecasts.

• Inventory Levels: While inventory is creeping up, it remains below historical averages.

Ski Country Alignment

Ski country real estate markets are not immune to these national trends. Like the rest of the country, these areas are experiencing:

• Slower Price Growth: The days of rapid price appreciation in sought-after ski destinations are waning.

• Increased Inventory: More properties are becoming available.

Longer Days on Market: Properties are taking longer to sell, mirroring the national trend of nearly tripled days on market in some areas.

Factors Contributing to the Slowdown

Several elements are contributing to this market freeze:

1. High Mortgage Rates: Elevated rates continue to discourage potential buyers.

2. Affordability Challenges: Rising home prices, coupled with high interest rates, have created affordability hurdles for many buyers

Economic Uncertainty: Broader economic factors are influencing buyer confidence and decision-making.

What This Means for Ski Country

For ski country real estate, this frozen market presents both challenges and opportunities:

• Realistic Pricing: Sellers need to adjust their expectations and price properties competitively.

• Increased Negotiation: Buyers may have more room to negotiate, especially on properties that have been on the market for extended periods.

Long-term Investment Focus: With slower appreciation, buyers should focus on properties that offer long-term value and enjoyment.

While the market may be experiencing a chill, it's important to remember that real estate is cyclical. For those looking to buy or sell in ski country, working with a knowledgeable local agent is more crucial than ever to navigate these frozen market conditions effectively.