What’s Really Happening in the Housing Market? A Local Look at Southwest Michigan

What’s Going On with the Housing Market?

It’s one of the most common questions we get: “What’s happening with the housing market right now?” And with so much information out there, it can be tough to know what’s actually true—especially when national trends don’t always match what’s happening right here in Southwest Michigan.

At the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, we help buyers and sellers throughout Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Battle Creek, and surrounding areas understand what’s really happening in our local market.

National vs. Local Housing Market

Nationally, real estate prices have started to level off, and in some metro areas, we’re seeing small price drops of around 1%. More inventory is coming on the market, and bidding wars are less frequent than they were in 2022–2023.

But in Southwest Michigan, it’s a different story. Recent data shows:

• Home prices are still rising year-over-year in many local zip codes

• Inventory has increased, giving buyers more choices

• Homes are staying on the market slightly longer, creating more negotiating room for buyers—but sellers are still in a strong position with proper pricing

  
  

Is Now a Good Time to Buy or Sell?

✅ For Buyers:

You have more options than you did even a year ago. While prices remain strong, more inventory means less competition, and buyers are regaining some leverage in negotiations.

✅ For Sellers:

Homes in desirable areas of Kalamazoo, Portage, and Mattawan are still selling for great prices. With the right marketing strategy (we can help with that!), many sellers are getting solid offers—just with slightly longer timelines than in past years.

What Should You Watch in the Housing Market?

Here are a few trends we’re tracking closely:

• Rising inventory levels

• Stabilizing interest rates

• Price growth slowing, but not reversing (yet)

• More realistic pricing strategies becoming necessary

Our team leader, Kerry Keefer Fischer, works closely with clients to help them time their move right and make decisions based on local data—not national headlines.

Get Local Market Insights from the Experts

Whether you’re buying your first home in Kalamazoo, moving up in Battle Creek, or selling a longtime property in Portage, we’re here to help you navigate the housing market with confidence.

At the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, we stay on top of the trends so you don’t have to. We’ll give you clear, honest guidance that’s tailored to your unique situation and goals.

Have questions about the market? Let’s talk.Reach out to the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team today and get the local real estate insights you need to make smart, confident decisions in today’s market.