Why October 2025 Could Be One of the Best Times to Buy in Rochester

Why Fall Could Still Be the Smart Window for Rochester Homebuyers

If you’ve been watching the housing market, signs are pointing to a golden window this fall — and in Rochester, we may be right in the sweet spot.

A recent article from Keeping Current Matters notes that:

“By mid-October, buyers across much of the country may finally find the combination of inventory, pricing, and negotiating power they’ve been waiting for — a rare opportunity in a market that has been tight for most of the past decade.”

While that may be true nationally, Rochester continues to be a seller’s market. The balance is improving a bit, but buyers here still face competition — often two or more offers per home — so moving quickly and strategically remains key.

What This Means for Rochester

Here in Rochester, many of the same seasonal patterns are starting to show, but with a local twist:

• More inventory options – As the back-to-school season passes, more sellers list their homes, giving buyers a few more choices than the summer frenzy allowed.

• Slightly less competition – Instead of going up against a dozen offers, you might see just one or two competitors — still competitive, but a bit more manageable.

• A short window of opportunity – Homes that are well-priced still move quickly. Buyers need to stay ready and decisive when something fits their criteria.

And while many are waiting for mortgage rates to drop, that may not be the best strategy. If rates ease, a surge of buyers who’ve been sitting out will jump back in — sending competition and prices climbing again. Acting now, while other buyers are waiting on the sidelines, could give you a meaningful edge.

What Buyers in Rochester Should Do Now

• Get financially ready – Secure a full pre-approval so you can move fast when you find the right property.

• Work with a local agent – Someone who understands Rochester’s micro-markets (that’s us!) can help you spot strong opportunities and act fast.

• Watch new listings closely – Inventory will likely rise slightly this fall before tightening again after the holidays.

• Be strategic and swift – Even though competition has eased, hesitation can still mean missing out on the right home.

Understanding the Seasonality of Rochester’s Market

Each year, the Rochester housing market follows a familiar rhythm: a bit slower through the fall and winter, then heating up rapidly in the spring. The chart below shows how median sold prices tend to dip modestly toward the end of the year before climbing again as spring listings surge.

That means the next few months offer a quieter — but still active — window for buyers before the spring rush returns.

Final Thoughts

October through early winter can offer a momentary breather for serious buyers — slightly more inventory, slightly fewer competitors, and a chance to secure a home before the market heats up again.

If you’re thinking about buying in Rochester this fall, don’t wait for rates to drop or competition to pick up. Now is the time to stay alert, stay ready, and move decisively.