| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Sales Trend | Existing home sales fell 2.7% in June 2025, marking a 9-month low |
| Mortgage Rates | Rates remain near 7%, but are expected to drop later in 2025 or early 2026 |
| Agent Attrition | Over 100,000 agents have left the industry since 2022 |
| Market Opportunity | Less agent competition + rising inventory = more room for new professionals to grow |
| Buyer Advantage | Inventory rose 16% YOY; more homes available, longer market times, price cuts common |
| Agent Outlook | 48% of agents reported increased optimism in June 2025 |
Existing Home Sales Dip to a 9-Month Low — A Hidden Opportunity for Agents
June 2025 housing sales drop data reveals a 2.7% decline in existing home sales, according to the National Association of REALTORS, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).This marks the lowest pace since last September. Despite this cooling, there are several silver linings — especially for aspiring or forward-thinking real estate agents.
1. Interest Rates Are Poised to Fall — Buyer Demand Will Return
Mortgage rates are still hovering around 7%, keeping many buyers on the sidelines. But forecasts indicate that rate cuts may begin later in 2025 or early 2026 — a shift that typically reawakens buyer activity. As rates drop, expect a surge in demand. That dormant inventory? It’s future deals waiting to happen.
2. Less Competition — More Room to Stand Out
The prolonged housing slowdown is causing a major shift in the industry:
- Over 100,000 fewer Realtors nationally compared to 2022
- California alone lost approximately 9,000 active sales agents by early 2025
- Some industry analysts predict 60–80% agent attrition in coming years
Fewer agents mean less competition and more visibility for committed professionals who stay in the game.
3. Rising Agent Optimism — The Real Ones Are Ready to Pivot
In June, nearly 48% of agents reported feeling more optimistic about the future than the previous month, according to National Mortgage News. As some exit, others are doubling down — embracing new tools, new tech, and renewed confidence in the market’s comeback.
4. A Buyer-Friendly Market Builds Long-Term Trust
Inventory is up by 16% year-over-year, giving buyers more options and more leverage in negotiations. Homes are lingering longer on the market — some with price reductions. This is a golden opportunity for agents to:
- Educate first-time buyers on favorable terms
- Negotiate better deals in a less competitive environment
- Build loyalty through smart guidance
5. Quality Wins When Quantity Falters
As part-time or uncommitted agents leave the field, those remaining must rise to meet client expectations for transparency, responsiveness, and professionalism. Agents who embrace automation, AI, and new marketing tools are emerging stronger than ever.
What Smart Agents Can Do Right Now
| Opportunity | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Educate buyers about low-competition, buyer-friendly conditions | Helps build trust and long-term loyalty |
| Embrace tech and AI | Boosts efficiency and keeps you top-of-mind |
| Plan financially for the upcoming rate drop | Prepares your business for the rebound |
| Invest in ongoing training | Sharpens your edge as competition thins out |
| Capitalize on rate sensitivity | Be ready to act fast when mortgage rates decline |
Explore Your Real Estate Career Options
If you're ready to start your career as a licensed real estate agent, we offer two great paths to choose from:
- View our New York Real Estate Licensing Classroom Course Schedule
- Prefer online learning? Start your NY license with our CE Shop partner