If you’re still worried about having to deal with a bidding war when you buy a home, you may be able to let some of that fear go.
While multiple-offer situations haven’t disappeared entirely, they’re not nearly as common as they used to be. In fact, a recent survey shows agents reported only 1 in 5 homes (20%) nationally received multiple offers in June 2025.
That’s down from nearly 1 in 3 (31%) just a year ago – and dramatically lower than in June 2023 (39%) (see graph below):
This trend means you should face less competition when you buy. That gives you more time to make decisions and the ability to negotiate price or terms.
It Still Depends on Where You’re Buying
Of course, national trends don’t tell the full story. Local dynamics matter, a lot. This second graph uses survey data from John Burns Research & Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) to break things down by region to prove just how true that is. It shows, while the share of homes getting multiple offers has dropped pretty much everywhere, some areas are still seeing more offers than others:
In the Northeast, 34% of homes (roughly 1 in 3) are still receiving multiple offers. That’s more than the national average. But in Southeast, that number drops to just 6%.
What’s behind the difference? In general, the areas still seeing bidding wars tend to have lower-than-normal inventory. That imbalance between buyers and available homes keeps pressure on prices and competition. But markets with more listings are seeing conditions cool – and that means fewer bidding wars.
Sellers Are More Flexible Than You Might Think
Here’s another shift to show you just how much things have changed. According to a Redfin report, almost half of sellers are offering concessions, like covering their buyer’s closing costs or dropping their asking price to get their house sold.
That’s a clear sign this isn’t the same ultra-competitive market we saw a few years ago. Back then, sellers rarely compromised. And buyers often waived their inspection or appraisal to try to make their offer stand out. Now, things are different.
But again, how often this is happening is going to vary based on where you’re looking to buy. And that’s why you need a local agent’s expertise.
Bottom Line
As today’s housing market continues to evolve, it’s clear that bidding wars aren’t as intense or widespread as they were during the peak of the frenzy. Rising inventory and shifting buyer demand have created a more balanced environment, which means many buyers now have more breathing room when making offers. That said, it doesn’t mean bidding wars have disappeared entirely. Well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods—especially those that are updated, move-in ready, and marketed effectively—can still attract multiple offers.
For sellers, this underscores the importance of pricing strategically and presenting your home in the best possible light. Overpricing could leave your property sitting on the market longer than expected, while the right pricing strategy can still generate strong interest and even spark competition. For buyers, it means you may no longer have to rush into a decision or waive important contingencies just to stay competitive. Instead, you can approach the process with more confidence, carefully evaluate your options, and negotiate from a stronger position.
Ultimately, whether or not you’ll encounter a bidding war depends on your local market conditions and the specific property you’re considering. Partnering with an experienced real estate professional is the best way to navigate these dynamics. We can help you understand the trends in your area, prepare a smart strategy, and position you for success—whether that means competing in a bidding situation or securing the right home without unnecessary stress.
Are you ready to make your next move with confidence? Let’s connect today!.
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