How’s the Market? It Depends on Who You Ask.

We’re already halfway through 2026. Hard to believe, right?

Over the Fourth of July weekend, I was asked the same question more times than I could count.

“How’s the market?”

It’s a fair question, but it’s also one of the hardest to answer with a single sentence.

The truth is, it depends on what you’re looking at and, more importantly, what you’re trying to accomplish.

Home Prices Continue to Reach New Highs

One of the biggest headlines right now is that the average home price in Erie County has climbed to $315,000, the highest it’s been in the past three years.

For homeowners, that’s encouraging news. Home values have remained strong, and many sellers are sitting on more equity than they realize.

For buyers, affordability has become a little more challenging, but that doesn’t mean the market has come to a standstill. People are still buying. People are still selling. The activity hasn’t disappeared; it’s simply evolving.

More Listings Are Hitting the Market

One thing we’ve noticed over the past several months is that more sellers are entering the market.

Inventory is growing, giving buyers more options than they’ve had in quite some time. That’s true in the single-family market, but it’s especially noticeable in the multifamily space.

And that’s where we’ve seen some of the biggest changes.

The Multifamily Market Is Shifting

Owning investment property in Buffalo isn’t the same as it was five years ago.

Higher property taxes, increased rental inspections, and changing regulations have caused many investors to rethink how they manage their properties.

Some owners are adapting.

Others are deciding they’ve had enough.

We’ve seen that firsthand through our property management business. More and more investors are reaching out because they want someone else to handle the day to day responsibilities.

Managing rental properties has become more involved, and having the right team behind you can make all the difference.

Investors Need a New Game Plan

If you’re investing today, you can’t rely on the same strategies that worked several years ago.

The market has changed.

That doesn’t mean the opportunities are gone. In fact, there are still great opportunities for investors, second home buyers, and homeowners looking to make their next move.

It simply means you need to approach those opportunities with a different mindset.

Success today comes from understanding the numbers, staying informed about local regulations, and surrounding yourself with professionals who know the market.

So… How’s the Market?

My answer is usually another question.

What are you trying to do?

Are you buying your first home? Looking to sell? Searching for an investment property? Thinking about purchasing a second home? The right move depends on your goals.

There are still great deals out there. There are opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. But this is a market where having a solid strategy matters more than ever.

The people making the best decisions right now aren’t guessing. They’re planning.

If you’re wondering what today’s market means for you, let’s have a conversation. Every situation is different, and together we can build a plan that fits your goals, whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or simply exploring your options.