By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read
Buyers rarely get low mortgage rates and strong negotiating power at the same time. In late 2026, rates are higher than many buyers want, but inventory is up and buyers have more leverage than they have had in years.
When rates were near 3 percent in 2020 and 2021, buyers rushed in, homes were scarce, and offers above asking price were common. Realtor.com reported that seller’s markets peaked at 98 of the top 100 metros in spring 2022. When rates rose, fewer people bought, inventory grew, and the balance began to shift.
Realtor.com recently found about two-thirds of the top 100 metros lean toward buyers. NAR’s chief economist has noted that higher inventory and longer days on market give buyers improved negotiating power. Redfin reports that nearly half of buyers now receive some kind of seller concession, such as closing cost help, repair credits, or a seller-paid rate buydown.
Forecasts from Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association, and Wells Fargo do not show rates falling much through 2027. If rates did drop sharply, more buyers would likely return, which could mean more competition and fewer concessions.
Conditions vary by city, price range, and property type. In a neighborhood where homes are sitting longer, a price cut or buydown request may be realistic. In a neighborhood with little inventory, it may not be. David can pull recent local sales and days on market for the area you are considering, so you know how much room to negotiate.
National figures from Realtor.com, NAR, Redfin, Fannie Mae, the MBA, and Wells Fargo, as reported in October and November 2026. Local conditions differ.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.
David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.
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