Home Re-Listings Are Rocketing But Housing Supply Is Still Low

Why It Matters

The resurgence of delisted homes signals potential buyer opportunities, but persistent inventory shortages and volatile mortgage rates mean the housing market’s rebound will be uneven, affecting pricing and sales strategies nationwide.

Key Takeaways

• Record 45,000 homes relisted in January, 3.6% market.
• 85,000 sellers delisted last September, 28% increase YoY.
• National inventory up 8% year‑over‑year but still 17% below 2019.
• Supply growth concentrated in South/West low‑price homes; Northeast/Midwest lag.
• Mortgage rates remain volatile, hindering buyer confidence despite slight decline.

Summary

The video examines the early‑spring U.S. housing market, highlighting a surge in homes being relisted after a wave of delistings last fall, and assessing whether increased supply can revive activity.

Redfin data show 45,000 previously delisted homes returned to market in January—a record 3.6% of all listings and the highest since tracking began. By contrast, September saw a record 85,000 sellers pull listings, up 28% year‑over‑year, driven by high mortgage rates, price inflation and economic uncertainty. Overall inventory is now about 8% higher than a year ago but remains 17% below pre‑pandemic levels, with nine consecutive months of shrinking annual growth.

A North Carolina agent quoted in the video described sellers “throwing their hands up” when offers fell short of expectations, illustrating the shift from a seller’s to a buyer’s market. Regional disparities are evident: the South and West see more low‑price listings, while the Northeast and Midwest continue to face tight supply. Mortgage rates, though lower than a year ago, have bounced back amid renewed inflation fears and geopolitical tension.

The mixed signals suggest modest optimism for spring buyers, yet lingering inventory gaps and rate volatility could temper price gains. Sellers re‑entering the market may boost activity, but without a sustained influx of new listings, the market’s recovery could remain uneven across regions.

Original Description

The spring housing market is off and running and while the pace isn't expected to be strong, there are signs of optimism, at least among sellers. CNBC's Diana Olick breaks down why homes are being re-listed at the fastest pace in a decade.

Reporting by: Diana Olick

Editing by: Lauren Hans

Additional Production Support by: CJ Haddad

Senior Director of Video: Lindsey Jacobson

Additional Footage: Getty Images

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Home Re-listings Are Rocketing But Housing Supply Is Still Low