Months of Supply: The Only Thing You Need to Know When Trying To Sell or Buy A House

Hey everyone, Corey Skaggs here. With all the stats, facts, and numbers flying around in New Jersey’s whirlwind real estate market, it can feel a little overwhelming trying to make sense of it all. But did you know there’s just one number that can give you a clear picture of what’s happening in any given market, whether you’re buying or selling? It’s called “months of supply”. Let’s dive into what this magic number is and why it’s so crucial.

Understanding the Months of Supply

The key to unlocking the mysteries of any real estate market, crazy or calm, lies in understanding the Months of Supply. This figure is derived from an absorption report, which crunches current listings, recent sales, and the average number of homes sold per month. Sounds like a lot of math, but it boils down to one invaluable insight: How long the current supply of properties for sale would last if no new ones were to be added.

For example, if we have a 3.0 Months of Supply, it means if no new homes were listed starting today, it would take three months for all the existing homes to be sold. Imagine that—no more homes for sale in just three months!

Decoding the Number

But how do we interpret this number? If a 6.0 Months of Supply is considered balanced, where neither buyers nor sellers have the upper hand, anything below leans towards the seller’s advantage. Conversely, anything above 6 indicates a buyer’s market. Recently, we’ve seen numbers as low as 1.22, screaming that it’s a seller’s paradise with fierce competition and scarce inventory for New Jersey buyers.

Strategic Timing for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers in a competitive market like New Jersey, monitoring the Months of Supply can be your secret weapon. As the number creeps up, it signals easing competition, hinting it might be time to jump back into the fray.

Sellers, on the other hand, should also keep a close eye on this trend. Planning to sell in six or seven months? Regularly checking this number can guide you to possibly list sooner. If you notice it inching towards 6 or higher, it suggests the market might become tougher for sellers.

Why The Months of Supply Matters

In essence, the Month of Supply is a snapshot of the market’s health and momentum. It simplifies complex market dynamics into a single, understandable figure, guiding your buying or selling decisions with clearer insight and direction.

Ready to Talk Numbers?

If you’re in New Jersey and curious about the Months of Supply in your area, I’m here to help. For those outside NJ, I encourage you to ask your local real estate agent about this critical number. It’s a straightforward yet powerful tool to navigate the real estate market with confidence.

Want to dive deeper into real estate strategies or need specific insights for the New Jersey property market? Don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Happy house hunting or selling! Remember, in the world of real estate, knowledge is not just power—it’s profit!