“How’s the market?” It’s the most common question I get. And it’s the least useful one you can ask.
Not because it’s a bad question — but because it’s too broad to mean anything. The market for a downtown Minneapolis condo is not the same as the market for a Maple Grove rambler. When someone asks “how’s the market?” they’re essentially asking “how’s the weather?” — and expecting a forecast for their backyard specifically.
The market isn’t one thing. It’s dozens of micro-markets moving at different speeds, in different directions, for different types of buyers and sellers. The question that actually helps you make better decisions depends entirely on who you are and what you’re trying to do.
If You’re Selling, Ask:
- What’s trending in my specific neighborhood right now?
- Which updates actually give the best return on investment — and which ones won’t pay for themselves?
- When is the right time to list given current inventory levels?
If You’re Buying, Ask:
- How competitive are offers in my target area right now?
- What’s actually driving prices — inventory, rates, or demand?
- How might my buying power shift if rates move even half a point this year?
If You’re Investing, Ask:
- Which zip codes have the strongest rental yields right now?
- Where is appreciation outpacing cash flow — and does that fit my strategy?
- What would my agent personally invest in if it were their money?
“The market is up 2.6%” is a headline. It’s not a strategy. If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or investing in the next six to twenty-four months, start asking better questions now — so when the timing is right, you’re already ready.
