As buying a house becomes increasingly difficult in the current political and economic state of the world, it is natural to seek advice on the same from giants. They might be uprooted from reality at times, but every once in a while, they tell you something a Google search won’t. In this article, let’s look at Barbara Corcoran’s tips that help buyers and sellers in the housing market.
The U.S. housing market remains tough for buyers. The average home price topped $357,000 in early April, while mortgage rates have been sitting at 6.64%. For many buyers, the big question is not just whether to purchase now, but how to manage it under these conditions.
Home values have worked in favor of sellers, but many are still reluctant to part with the low mortgage rates they already have.
Barbara Corcoran’s Tips For Succeeding in The Housing Market
Barbara Corcoran knows the housing market inside out. As the founder of The Corcoran Group, a bestselling author, and a familiar face on ABC’s Shark Tank, she’s built her career navigating one of the toughest real estate markets in the world (New York City).
Drawing on that experience, she shares her take on how buyers can make smarter moves and stretch their dollars further.
Why Buying Now Beats Waiting for the “Perfect” Market
Homebuyers hoping for a friendlier market are most probably setting themselves up for disappointment. Prices are edging higher each year, and mortgage rates haven’t shown much relief.
Barbara Corcoran points out that most homeowners already enjoy rates under 4%, which means many stay put. Her advice? Don’t keep delaying and start looking now before it gets even harder.
Spotting Opportunities in Long-Listed Homes
When checking out listings, pay close attention to how long a home has actually been up for sale. Don’t just rely on the days on the market shown for the current listing.
If the property was previously listed with another agent, that time matters, too. It gives you a clearer picture of how long the home has been on the market.
“When a house is on the market for six months or longer, nobody’s paying attention. That’s where your low offer will be accepted,” says Barbara.
Off-Season is Your Prime-Time
Spring is the most fertile season for real estate sales in the United States. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that sales climb in April and usually hit a high of about 18,250 in June. January averages closer to 9,600 sales and sees the longest wait times for homes to sell.
Point to be noted: The only spring slowdown comes during Spring Break, when fewer buyers are in the market.
Barbara’s wise words on the matter are, “Everybody’s out in the spring and summer, so you should be shopping in the winter. That’s always where the best deals are taken.”
Know the Rules and Avoid Surprises With Local Regulations
If you plan to buy a home and rent part of it, check local zoning laws first. If the property has a homeowners association, review its covenants, conditions, and restrictions before splurging your money.
“A separate entrance allows you to make a separate unit, which you could rent to offset the cost of your mortgage,” explains Barbara.
Always Visit a Property Twice Before Buying
Many buyers regret not visiting a property more than once. Barbara commented that a second trip often reveals things you missed the first time, like loud neighbors, constant barking, or a house that turns into the weekend party spot.
Barbara Corcoran’s Tips for Home Sellers in Today’s Market
Selling a property may not be as conceptually daunting as buying one, but it does not come without its risks.
How to Know When It’s Time to Sell Your Home
Deciding to sell can be difficult, especially when it means giving up a low 3% mortgage for a new loan at 6%. To tackle the same, Corcoran suggests asking yourself, “Do I see myself here for the rest of my life?”
Because if you don’t, then you should ideally seal the deal on that house.
Areas That Can Make or Break a Sale
Psychologically, a normal buyer decides whether they want a home within half a minute. Admitting the same to yourself may come later. That’s why sellers should put extra effort into the spaces that make the strongest impact.
Barbara also points out three areas where sellers should pay special attention, at least superficially, for presentation purposes. These are:
1. Front Entrance
- Repaint the door and window trim
- Clean the windows
- Power wash the driveway and walkways
- Freshen up shrubs
2. Living Room
- Add a new coat of paint
- Slipcover-worn furniture
- Bring in updated lighting
- Use a larger rug to make the room feel bigger
3. Kitchen
- Paint or resurface cabinets
- Replace the fridge if needed
- Keep the inside of the refrigerator spotless since buyers will check it
Barbara Corcoran’s Takeaway for Buyers and Sellers
Buying or selling a home will probably never feel simple, but the right perspective can make it less overwhelming. Barbara Corcoran’s housing tips remind us that timing, research, and a little creativity can tip the odds in your favor.
For buyers, it’s about spotting hidden opportunities and acting decisively. For sellers, it’s knowing when to let go and making your home shine in the right places.
Whether you’re stepping into the market for the first time or deciding when to move on from your current place, small, informed choices can lead to big wins in the long run.
