Buyer’s Market Vs. Seller’s Market: What’s Better for Agents?

As of March 2025, Ohio’s real estate market is showing regional variations, with some areas continuing to favor sellers while others shift toward a more balanced or buyer-friendly environment. This changing landscape presents an important question for real estate professionals:

Which market is better for agents?

Whether you’re representing buyers or sellers, understanding market conditions is key to success in Ohio real estate. In this blog, we’ll break down buyer’s vs. seller’s markets, explore current Ohio housing trends, and offer strategies for agents to thrive in any market.

Key Takeaways

• Ohio’s Market Is Regional – Some areas remain seller-friendly, while others, like Cleveland and Beavercreek, are becoming more balanced, providing opportunities for buyers and sellers.
• Opportunities Exist for Agents in Any Market – Whether working with buyers in a slower market or sellers in a competitive one, real estate agents can leverage unique advantages in both.
• Ohio’s Home Prices Are Rising – The average home price in Ohio is $226,002, with a 5.9% increase over the past year, showing continued demand in key areas.
• Adaptability Is Key – Successful agents stay informed, use local market insights, and adjust their approach based on buyer and seller conditions.

What Is a Buyer’s Market?

A buyer’s market occurs when the supply of homes exceeds buyer demand, leading to lower prices, longer listing times, and better deals for buyers.

Characteristics of a buyer’s market

• More Inventory – A larger selection of homes gives buyers more choices.
• Longer Time on Market – Homes take longer to sell.
• Lower Prices – Sellers often reduce prices or offer concessions to attract buyers.

Strategies for agents in a buyer’s market

• For Buyer’s Agents – Help buyers navigate the many options, negotiate better deals, and secure properties at competitive prices.
• For Seller’s Agents – Offer pricing strategies, home staging advice, and targeted marketing to help sellers stand out in a crowded market.

What Is a Seller’s Market?

A seller’s market happens when more buyers are looking for homes than there are available properties, causing home prices to rise and competition to increase.

Characteristics of a seller’s market

• Limited Inventory – Fewer homes mean high demand.
• Shorter Time on Market – Homes sell quickly, often with multiple offers.
• Higher Home Prices – Sellers have the advantage, often getting top dollar.

Strategies for agents in a seller’s market

• For Seller’s Agents – Use high demand to maximize multiple offers, position listings strategically, and help sellers get the best price.
• For Buyer’s Agents – Act quickly, educate buyers on market competition, and help them make strong, competitive offers with minimal contingencies.

Ohio’s Housing Market in 2025

Ohio’s real estate market continues to grow, with some regions still favoring sellers while others offer more balance.

Ohio’s housing market trends

• Statewide Growth: According to Zillow, Ohio’s average home value is $226,002, reflecting a 5.9% increase over the past year.
• Higher Home Prices: The average sale price across Ohio reached $274,522 in January 2025, a 7.6% increase from last year, according to Ohio REALTORS®. ​
• Growing Inventory: The number of homes for sale increased 10.3% year-over-year in January, helping ease competition in some areas.
• Mortgage Rates: Rates remain high, which impacts affordability, but demand is still strong in key regions.

Regional Market Trends in Ohio

Regional market trends and chosen niches affect the average salary for agents. Here’s what you need to know about regional real estate markets in OH.

Seller’s markets in Ohio

• Columbus – Home prices are expected to rise by 4-6% in Columbus neighborhoods due to continued strong demand.
• Cincinnati – Limited inventory is keeping the market competitive for sellers in Cincinnati neighborhoods.

Buyer’s or balanced markets in Ohio

• Cleveland – With more homes available and a slower appreciation rate, the market is shifting toward buyers.
• Beavercreek – Homes now take an average of 92 days to sell, signaling a more balanced market.

What Market is Better for Real Estate Agents?

Pros & cons of a buyer’s market

• More Negotiation Power – Agents can help buyers secure better deals.
• Stronger Client Relationships – More time to build trust with buyers.
• Longer Sales Cycle – Homes take longer to sell, delaying commissions.
• More Marketing Effort Required – Agents must work harder to attract buyers.

Pros & cons of a seller’s market

• Faster Sales – Homes sell quickly, leading to faster commissions.
• Higher Property Values – Commissions are higher as prices rise.
• Intense Competition – Buyers may struggle to win bids.
• Fewer Buyers in Some Areas – High prices can push buyers out of the market.

How Agents Can Succeed in Any Market

Success in real estate isn’t just about the market—it’s about how well agents adapt. Whether Ohio favors buyers or sellers or you are working in a challenging market, top agents adjust their strategies to keep business steady.

Key strategies for success

• Stay Informed – Follow local market trends and understand regional shifts.
• Enhance Skills – Improve negotiation, marketing, and communication skills.
• Work with Both Buyers & Sellers – Keep a diverse client base to stay busy.
• Use Technology – Leverage online listings, digital marketing, and virtual tours.
• Find a Niche – Specialize in a specific area or property type to stand out.

Start Your Real Estate Career with Hondros College

Thinking about getting your Ohio real estate license but not sure if it is worth it in this market? The best time to start is now—because real estate success isn’t just about the market, it’s about how you navigate it.

Hondros College has helped thousands of real estate professionals launch their careers. With comprehensive Ohio real estate courses, expert instructors, and flexible online learning, you’ll be prepared to succeed in any market.

Get started today! Enroll in Hondros College’s Ohio Real Estate Pre-Licensing Course and take the first step toward your real estate career success!

Disclaimer: This report is informed by a blend of trusted perspectives, including insights from seasoned real estate instructors who serve as local experts and professionals deeply embedded in the Ohio housing market. Complementing their expertise are data and trends drawn from leading real estate publications, comprehensive market analyses, and reputable industry reports. Together, these sources provide a well-rounded depiction of the Ohio real estate landscape, ensuring that buyers, investors, and professionals alike have access to actionable and reliable information.