Luxury Real Estate: Why Now Could Be Your Moment to Move Up

The luxury real estate market is shifting—and for buyers, that’s very good news. According to new data from Realtor.com, high-end homes are offering more value than they have in years. Larger spaces, slightly lower prices, and more features per dollar are creating an opening for move-up buyers and new entrants into the luxury tier. If you’ve been watching from the sidelines thinking million-dollar homes were out of reach, this might be the moment to take a fresh look.

A Shift in the Luxury Real Estate Landscape

Read the Full Story → Realtor.com

Recent research shows a clear trend: buyers shopping for luxury real estate are getting more for their money. The share of million-dollar homes offering larger square footage has increased noticeably, and prices in several upscale markets have begun to soften.

This doesn’t mean prices are plummeting—inventories remain tight—but what is available tends to come with more space and upgraded features. For example, homes listed over $1 million are now offering more square feet per dollar compared to previous years.

In a market where affordability has been a constant concern, this shift is giving serious buyers a reason to reconsider luxury listings they might have previously ruled out.

Why This Matters for Move-Up Buyers

If you already own a home and have built up equity, you may be in a stronger position than you think. Moving up into luxury real estate is often less about chasing the “dream house” and more about long-term strategy—especially when the market offers good value.

Let’s say your current home has appreciated over the past few years (and it probably has). That equity can go a long way when paired with today’s softening luxury prices. Combine that with mortgage rates hovering in the low-to-mid 6 % range, and the math may actually work out in your favor.

The key takeaway? That luxury home that seemed just out of reach six months ago might now fit within your buying power. And with the right lender and real estate agent, you can explore those options confidently.

Timing Might Be on Your Side

While much of the media focus remains on whether the Fed will issue another rate cut, the more important story for luxury buyers is timing. When prices begin to cool and listings offer more value, it often signals a unique window before competition heats back up.

Waiting for mortgage rates to fall below 6 % might seem tempting, but Fannie Mae’s latest forecast suggests that may not happen until 2026. In the meantime, focusing on what you can control—like exploring better-priced properties and locking in a stable rate—can put you ahead of the crowd.

Many seasoned real estate investors will tell you: wealth is built by buying when value is high and competition is low. That’s exactly the kind of opportunity this current luxury real estate shift is presenting.

What This Means for Buyers

Luxury real estate isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy—it’s increasingly accessible to buyers who’ve built equity, have strong financials, and are ready to make a long-term investment in their lifestyle and future.

Here’s how to start:

• Get pre-approved: A jumbo loan requires different qualification standards. Know your numbers and borrowing power.

• Talk to your agent: They can help identify homes offering extra space or features at today’s more favorable prices.

• Run the full scenario: Don’t just focus on price—compare monthly payments, tax implications, and resale value.

  
  

And most importantly, take the step. If you’ve been watching luxury listings from afar, this may be the smartest time to walk through that front door.

Seller Perspective: What If You Own a Luxury Home?

If you’re on the selling side of the luxury real estate market, this is a moment to be strategic, not panicked. Buyers are returning—but they’re savvier and value-driven. That means staging, pricing, and smart marketing will make all the difference.

The softening in the luxury segment doesn’t mean a crash. It means opportunity for well-presented, well-positioned homes to stand out and move. Working with a seasoned real estate agent who understands this niche is more important than ever.

If you’re considering listing, talk to your agent about how to appeal to this emerging group of move-up buyers. With the right plan, this market still works for you too.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’ve been thinking about buying or selling—especially in the luxury market—this could be your moment to make a smart move. Whether you want to explore available listings, run numbers, or simply talk strategy, the right guidance makes all the difference.

Contact the real estate or lending professional who shared this post to get expert help tailored to your goals. They’re here to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you take the next step with confidence.