Buying or selling a home in 2025 comes with plenty of questions. Online searches reflect what people are curious about and where they need help. With the real estate landscape shifting in response to market pressures, technology, and lifestyle changes, it’s no surprise that some questions are asked more often than others. If you're navigating the process this year, it helps to know what others are wondering too.
Search trends reveal the areas that matter most, from interest rates to down payments. Buyers want clarity on affordability, while sellers are looking for strategy. At the heart of each question is a desire to make smart, confident decisions. Below are the five most Googled questions about real estate in 2025 and what you need to know to move forward with confidence.
1. Will Home Prices Go Down in 2025?
This question leads the list for good reason. With the market showing signs of recalibration in some areas, many are hoping for relief after the sharp price increases of recent years. The answer depends heavily on location and current inventory levels.
In competitive regions, prices have remained steady or continued to climb. In markets where supply is starting to catch up with demand, modest price adjustments are more likely. While large-scale drops are unlikely, some neighborhoods may see slower growth or flat pricing. Rising interest rates have tempered buying power, which in turn affects how much buyers are willing to pay.
If you are waiting for a major price correction, you may be waiting longer than expected. Instead of focusing solely on price movement, it is more productive to focus on affordability, financing, and long-term value.
2. Is It Better to Buy or Rent in 2025?
Another top search involves the age-old debate: buying versus renting. In 2025, the decision is even more personal than before. With home prices still high in many markets and mortgage rates not yet back to historic lows, some potential buyers are hesitant.
However, the benefits of homeownership remain strong. Equity building, tax incentives, and stability continue to attract buyers who plan to stay in one place for a while. On the other hand, those unsure of their job or lifestyle plans may find renting to be more flexible.
The choice depends on your financial situation and your goals. If you're able to secure a good mortgage and plan to stay in the home for several years, buying often makes sense. If not, renting may provide a chance to save and wait for the right opportunity.
3. How Much Do I Need for a Down Payment?
This question never falls off the radar. Many still believe that a 20 percent down payment is required, but that’s not always the case. In 2025, buyers have more options than they may realize.
First-time homebuyer programs, FHA loans, VA loans, and certain conventional products allow for down payments as low as three to five percent. In some cases, down payment assistance grants are available to qualifying buyers. That said, the more you can put down, the more competitive your offer may be, especially in a market with tight inventory.
A larger down payment also reduces your loan amount and monthly payments. But saving that much can be a barrier. The good news is that buyers who are financially prepared, even with a smaller down payment, still have plenty of financing options.
4. How Do I Choose the Right Real Estate Agent?
The process of buying or selling a home can be complex. This question has gained traction as more buyers and sellers realize that not all real estate agents offer the same level of service or expertise.
When selecting a real estate professional, experience matters, but so does local knowledge and communication style. Look for someone who understands your priorities and listens closely. Ask about recent transactions in your area and how they plan to market or search for properties on your behalf.
In a digital-first world, marketing savvy is a must. Your agent should know how to position your home online, coordinate showings efficiently, and advise you with clear, timely updates. A good agent doesn’t just guide you through the transaction—they also educate you along the way.
5. What Is the Housing Market Like Right Now?
With so many moving parts, people are constantly searching for a current snapshot of the housing market. The answer varies by city and sometimes even by neighborhood. In 2025, the overall market is adjusting after years of high demand and limited inventory.
Mortgage interest rates are still elevated compared to pre-2020 levels. Inventory remains tight in many desirable areas, though some regions are beginning to see more balance between supply and demand. Buyers are more price-sensitive than before, and sellers must price realistically to attract offers.
Homes are still selling, and buyers are still purchasing, but with a more thoughtful approach. If you're planning to make a move, understanding your local conditions will give you a clearer picture of how to proceed.
Work With Local Experts Who Know the Market
When you have questions about buying or selling a home in Bellingham, you need more than generic answers. Local knowledge makes all the difference. Julian & Company understands what drives the market in this region, from seasonal trends to neighborhood-level demand. They work closely with clients to break down what the most Googled questions about real estate in 2025 mean for your goals.
Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea of homeownership or you’re preparing to sell in a changing market, Julian & Company provides insight, clarity, and smart guidance. If Bellingham is where you see your future, connect with professionals who know how to navigate the path from search to sale. With the right team on your side, your next move can be a confident one.
*Header image courtesy of Unsplash
