If you’re looking to buy a home in 2026, and you’ve been waiting for the housing market to feel a little less stacked against you, that moment may finally be here.
According to a recent Redfin report, buyers now have more negotiating power than they’ve had in over a decade. In fact, sellers now outnumber buyers by a record margin.
That doesn’t mean the market is suddenly easy for home shoppers, but it does mean you’re no longer expected to rush into decisions just to keep up.
Understanding what’s changing can help you approach your home search with more clarity.
Why Buyers Have More Leverage Right Now
The biggest reason you’re gaining leverage is simple. Across the nation, there are 47.1% more sellers than buyers in today’s housing market. When that happens, sellers have to work harder to stand out. And you gain more options to choose from.
Compared to the seller-heavy markets of recent years, you’re now seeing homes stay on the market longer. Sellers are adjusting expectations, and competition has eased in many areas.
While prices and mortgage rates still matter, you’re not facing the same constant pressure to act immediately or risk missing out.
This shift gives you something that’s been in short supply for a while: time to think.
What Leverage Looks Like When You’re Buying a Home
Leverage isn’t just a statistic. It shows up in the decisions you’re able to make throughout the buying process. As a buyer, you may notice changes like these:
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More flexibility in price negotiations
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Greater willingness from sellers to help with closing costs or other concessions
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Less pressure to waive inspections or important protections
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More room to negotiate repairs, timelines, or terms
These conditions don’t mean every seller is desperate or every home is discounted. They do mean you’re more likely to have a voice in the process and the ability to ask for terms that feel reasonable for your situation.
How This Is Showing Up in Boston Neighborhoods
While national trends point to a buyer-friendlier environment, real estate is always local.
In Boston, you might already be noticing signs like more active listings, longer days on market, or more frequent price adjustments.
Some homes remain competitive, especially those priced well or located in high-demand neighborhoods.
Others are sitting longer, which can create opportunities if you’re paying attention.
Knowing where flexibility exists and where it doesn’t can help you focus your energy on the homes that give you the best chance to negotiate.
How You Can Use This Moment to Your Advantage
With more leverage comes the opportunity to be more intentional. Buyers who tend to do well in this kind of market focus less on speed and more on strategy.
As you navigate your options, it can help to focus on a few key approaches:
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Take time to understand local pricing and recent sales
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Pay attention to homes that have been listed longer
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Be clear about your priorities and budget comfort
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Make offers that balance value with reasonable flexibility
Trying to perfectly time the market rarely works. Making a thoughtful decision that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle is more likely to lead to the outcome you want.
The Bottom Line for You as a Buyer in Boston
You have more leverage today than you’ve had in years, and that shift can make the homebuying process feel more balanced and manageable.
While no market is perfect, today’s conditions give you more room to ask questions, negotiate thoughtfully, and move forward at a pace that feels right.
If you’re considering buying a home in Boston, this could be a good time to explore what’s possible. Even if you’re still early in the process, understanding how the market is changing can help you feel more confident about your next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Home in Boston in 2026
Are buyers really in a better position in Boston in 2026?
Yes. Even in a historically competitive market like Boston, buyers in 2026 have more leverage than they’ve had in years. We're seeing this clearly in Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, and Hyde Park, where listings are staying active longer, and sellers are adjusting expectations. Buyers are no longer forced to rush simply to stay competitive.
What does buyer leverage look like in Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, and Hyde Park?
In these neighborhoods, buyer leverage shows up as more realistic pricing, increased openness to inspection protections, and greater flexibility on closing costs or timelines. Homes priced correctly still sell, but those that miss the mark sit longer. We guide buyers to focus on those opportunities rather than chasing every new listing.
Is buyer leverage the same across all Boston neighborhoods?
No. Boston is hyper-local. Parts of Jamaica Plain remain competitive, especially near transit and green space. Roslindale and Hyde Park are showing more negotiation room, particularly for homes that need updates or have been on the market longer. Our role is to help buyers understand exactly where leverage exists so offers are targeted, informed, and credible.