Washtenaw County’s housing market is entering the spring season with a dynamic mix of expanding inventory and persistent buyer demand. While closed sales were down 5% year-over-year in the first quarter, buyer activity remains solid— particularly for homes that are well-prepared and priced strategically.

One of the most notable shifts is in listing activity. New listings jumped 16% compared to Q1 2024, and total inventory surged 46% year-over-year. Compared to 2023, inventory is up 33%. However, despite this increase, buyers continue to face difficulty finding move-in-ready homes. A significant portion of the added inventory includes listings that carried over from the previous year— properties that may not fully align with buyer expectations in terms of condition or value.

On the pricing front, the market remains competitive. Average sale prices are up 5% compared to last year, and buyer urgency is evident in recent sales trends. In March, 59% of homes sold at or above asking price, highlighting the continued presence of multiple-offer scenarios and fast-paced deals. That share is expected to increase as we progress further into the second quarter.

For sellers, the current environment favors those who make thoughtful preparations—updated homes that are well-priced are rewarded with quick sales and strong returns. Buyers, meanwhile, will need to remain vigilant and ready to act quickly when the right home appears.

In short, Washtenaw County’s housing market continues to reflect strong demand relative to supply, even amid rising inventory. As the spring market gains momentum, conditions remain favorable for sellers, and competitive for buyers navigating a still-tight landscape of quality listings.