Originally published January 2025 — reflects early-year market conditions in the Triangle.

Hi, I’m Marti Hampton. As the 2025 housing market gets underway, buyers are navigating a very specific set of conditions: higher inventory than recent years, shifting expectations, and evolving loan options. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, these five facts will help you make clearer, more confident decisions in early 2025.

 

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1. The Average Age for First-Time Homebuyers Is Increasing

Did you know the average age for first-time homebuyers has climbed to around 38 years old? That’s roughly six years older than it was a couple of decades ago. It’s one of the clearest reminders that, when it comes to building wealth, starting sooner matters.

The earlier you buy a home, the more appreciation you can capture over your lifetime. Think of your home the way you think of your 401(k): a long-term investment that grows over time, not a short-term trade you try to time perfectly.

 

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2. Homebuyers Today Often Expect Perfection

One big change compared to 15–20 years ago is buyer expectations. Many of today’s buyers want “perfect” right out of the gate — fully updated, magazine-ready, and flawless.

The problem? That mindset can cause you to pass on homes with strong fundamentals and serious potential. Instead of chasing perfection, focus on:

• Location — you can change the house, not the street
• Floor plan and bones — good structure, sensible layout
• Long-term value — how the home will live for years to come

Cosmetic improvements can be made over time. But a great lot, a solid neighborhood, and strong fundamentals don’t come along every day.

 

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3. Increased Inventory Creates Real Opportunity

In early 2025, buyers have more inventory to choose from than at any point in the last several years. That alone changes the experience of buying a home — there’s more choice, a little more breathing room, and in many cases, more negotiation power than buyers had during the ultra-competitive pandemic years.

If your income and credit are stable, and you’re not planning to relocate in the near future, this is a strong window to enter the market. Real estate remains one of the most reliable wealth-building tools you can use over a lifetime.

For a deeper look at how local numbers are shifting, explore our Triangle Market Intelligence reports.

 

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4. FHA Loans Are a Powerful Starting Point

FHA loans continue to be one of the best ways for first-time buyers to get started. In early 2025, FHA rates have often been more favorable than conventional rates, and FHA’s flexible guidelines mean more buyers can qualify.

The FHA loan limit in our area is around $529,000, which covers a large portion of starter and move-up homes in the Triangle. Don’t let old myths about government-backed loans scare you off — when used correctly and paired with a strong lender, FHA can be an excellent tool.

The smartest move is to get fully approved upfront. That way you know exactly where you stand, and your offer looks stronger to sellers.

If you’re not sure where to start, visit our Buyer Resource Page for guidance on next steps.

 

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5. Move Quickly in High-Appreciation Areas

If you’re targeting a bigger home, a top school district, or a neighborhood where prices have been rising faster than average, waiting can work against you. When the right home in a high-appreciation area hits the market and checks your boxes, the best strategy is usually to move decisively.

Here’s why:

• Home values in certain pockets of the Triangle are still climbing
• When interest rates ease, more buyers rush back in
• You can refinance your interest rate later — but you can’t go back and pay yesterday’s price

The winning approach isn’t trying to time the bottom. It’s locking in the right home in the right location, then improving your financing when the market allows.

 

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Final Thoughts

Buying a home in 2025 doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — but it does require clarity. Understanding how buyer expectations have changed, where inventory is opening up, how FHA loans can help, and when to move quickly gives you a real edge in this market.

If you’re thinking about making a move, the most important step is getting a plan that matches your income, timeline, and long-term goals.

 

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Next Steps

👉 Thinking about buying? Get a step-by-step plan and lender guidance through our Buyer Resource Page.
👉 Considering selling? Find out what your home could sell for in today’s market with a free home valuation: Get Your Home Value.

 

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Authority Note

With 30+ years of resale experience, more than 10,000 closings, and deep local relationships across Greater Raleigh, Marti Hampton Real Estate offers one of the region’s most trusted systems for guiding buyers and sellers. The team’s structured, data-driven approach, recognized both locally and nationally, helps clients make clear, confident decisions in every market cycle.