Insider Discussion – Buyers – It’s time To Get Real
Insider Discussion – Buyers – It’s time To Get Real
Thinking about buying a home? Let’s get real—this isn’t the same market we had just a year ago.
You’ve got more choices now, but not every seller has caught on yet. Step one: get pre-approved. Sellers want to see you’re serious. You can ask for concessions, but keep it reasonable—we’re still technically in a seller’s market. Closing costs have jumped big time, often $7,000–$9,000, so plan to bring some cash above your down payment. And remember—pre-owned homes aren’t new construction. Be smart with repair requests. The right mindset will help you land the right home in today’s market.
I hope this information was helpful! If you are considering buying or selling a home, I would love to talk to you. I am a seasoned agent with over 24 years of experience in the local real estate market. I would love to be able to get you the financial result you desire from your current home to get you in to that Dream Home! Don’t hesitate to call me anytime at 260-579-1516 or you can email me at mike@mikearchbold.com.
Let’s Get Real – Buyer Tips for Navigating the Fort Wayne Real Estate Market in 2025
For years, buyers in Fort Wayne have faced tough conditions: low inventory, bidding wars, and sellers who called all the shots. But in 2025, the market has shifted. With inventory up nearly 40%, buyers now have more leverage and more homes to choose from.
Still, this doesn’t mean it’s suddenly a buyer’s market. To succeed, buyers need to prepare strategically.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop
No matter the conditions, sellers want to know you’re serious. A pre-approval letter from a lender proves you’re qualified and puts you ahead of casual shoppers. Without it, your offer may not even be considered.
Understand Closing Costs in 2025
Closing costs have surged. In the past, buyers often requested $1,000–$3,000 in help from sellers. Today, requests of $7,000–$9,000 are common. While some sellers may contribute, there’s usually a cap.
Pro Tip: Budget for cash above your down payment to cover part of your closing costs if the seller won’t cover them.
Be Realistic With Repair Requests
Inspections are part of every purchase, but remember: older homes come with wear and tear. Sellers will often address major safety or structural issues, but buyers should avoid nitpicking minor cosmetic items. The key is distinguishing between necessary repairs and long-term maintenance that comes with homeownership.
The Bottom Line for Buyers in 2025
This year’s market gives buyers more opportunities and more negotiating power—but success depends on preparation. With pre-approval in hand, realistic expectations, and
Michael J Archbold
Associate Broker, REALTOR, ePro
RE/MAX Results
8101 Coldwater Rd
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
c. 260-579-1516
e. Mike@MikeArchbold.com
w. www.MikeArchbold.com
Oh, by the way… if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number. I’ll be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
Why Does RE/MAX Results Stand Out Among the Competition?
Simply put: Relationships. We pride ourselves not only in our professional service but more importantly in the personal touch we bring to our business. Has an agent/lawyer/contractor/vendor ever treated you like you were just another paycheck? The reason our clients come back time and again and refer all their friends and family to us is because they know we are part of the family.
Genuinely caring about the people we serve enables us to do things other agencies can’t. Rest assured, we will ALWAYS have your best interest at heart and work vigorously to get you the best deal possible on your home or business. The relationships we build with our clients enable us to work 100% by referral.
The reason we are able to give top notch service to our clients is because our clients refer us a constant stream of quality family and friends to assist in their real estate needs. While other agents are out making cold calls and chasing “potential” leads, we are freed up by our referral base to service our clients like no other broker can. We are never too busy for your referrals!
Want to experience the difference for yourself? Call or text me today at 260-579-1516.
“Professional Service with a Personal Touch“
We’re Here To Help
Are you or someone you know considering a home purchase? Don’t hesitate to call or text me, Michael Archbold, at 260-579-1516 and I will connect you with the best mortgage professionals in the business who can get you your score, discuss ways to improve it if necessary, and put you on the path to home ownership. Click here to read more about our Buyer Services. Click here to browse listings NOW! Looking to sell your home? Call today to set up an appointment to begin developing your customized marketing plan. Click here to read more about our Seller Services.
Hoosier Home Listings by RE/MAX Results is a full service real estate Web site serving Northeast Indiana. We assist residential and commercial clients in locating, buying, and selling real property in the State of Indiana including but not limited to the counties of Allen, Huntington, Wells, Adams, Whitley, Wabash, Kosciusko, Noble, Dekalb, Lagrange, Steuben and cities including Fort Wayne, Decatur, Bluffton, Huntington, Warsaw, Columbia City, Butler, and Angola. RE/MAX Results is an Equal Housing Opportunity company.
Hoosier Home Listings – Insider Discussion – Buyers – It’s time To Get Real …
… brought to you by Michael Archbold, Hoosier Home Listings, and RE/MAX Results.
The consummate professional, Michael Archbold (Associate Broker, REALTOR, ePro) brings a diversified background to the world of real estate. Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Mike graduated Wayne High School in 1992. He received bachelors degrees in Accounting in 1997 from Indiana University and Information Technology in 2005 from Indiana Wesleyan University. Mike comes to Re/MAX with more than 20 years of experience in sales and accounting. He began his career in real estate in 2000 as an investor.
