If you've been keeping an eye on the real estate market in Westchester County lately, you may have noticed that sellers are popping the balloon. Pop The Balloon or Find Love is one of my favorite Internet dating shows where singles line up and then "pop" a balloon if they are not interested in their love match. In real estate that looks like fewer new listings hitting the MLS and more properties quietly vanishing from the market. According to a recent report, delistings jumped a staggering 28% in September, a clear signal that many sellers are opting to step back rather than accept what they see as low offers.
What does this mean for you, whether you're thinking of buying or selling in Westchester?
Sellers Are Popping the Balloon
Many homeowners who listed in 2023 and 2024 are still anchored to prices set during the post-pandemic boom. As interest rates remain stubbornly high (between 6.5% and 7%) buyer demand has cooled just enough to make bidding wars less of a given. For sellers who don’t have to move, popping a listing is sometimes more appealing than lowering the price.
In a place like Westchester, where the median home price topped $1MM in May 2025, this mindset is especially prevalent in the $1MM+ market. These homes are sitting longer and seeing fewer aggressive offers, prompting some sellers to pop and wait for more favorable conditions.
Buyers, Pay Attention: This Is a Window of Opportunity
While a jump in delistings might sound like bad news, it’s actually a sign of opportunity, especially for buyers who’ve been sitting on the sidelines. More delistings often lead to reduced competition in the active market. That can translate into fewer bidding wars and better negotiating power. With Westchester’s months of supply still under 3 months in many areas, it’s technically still a seller’s market—but it’s shifting.
If you're financing your purchase, keep an eye on interest rate trends, but don't wait too long. When rates dip, you’ll likely face more buyer competition again. In the meantime, now might be your best shot to buy with contingencies intact, and maybe even get some closing costs covered.
Sellers: Strategy Beats Nostalga
If you're considering selling soon, don’t rely solely on where the market was. Buyers are data-driven and discerning, especially in the high-cost Hudson Valley. Instead, work with an agent who understands how to price strategically, stage effectively, and market with precision. The homes that are selling today are the ones that show well, are priced right, and are marketed using smart, data-backed campaigns.
Delisting may seem like the safe bet, but a well-prepared listing can still find a real estate love match.
Whether you’re buying or selling, knowledge is power. In Westchester working with a local expert who understands the data, the neighborhoods, and the timing can help you avoid popping the balloon to get to the final questions.
Seller... is it a Yes for you? Buyer... is it a yes for you? WE GOT A MATCH!!!!
If you have questions about your specific goals or want to explore what your next move should look like... askHollingsworth.