If you’ve been searching for a home in Indiana lately—especially in areas like Carmel, Fishers, or Zionsville—you’ve probably noticed one thing: the pickings are slim.
Yes, inventory is low. But the good news? You can still find your dream home if you know where (and how) to look.
Let’s break down why inventory is tight—and what I do differently to help buyers succeed anyway.
What’s Causing the Low Inventory?
There are a few key reasons housing inventory remains low across Indiana and much of the country:
1. High Mortgage Rates Have Sellers Sitting Still
Many current homeowners locked in historically low mortgage rates (3% or less). They’re hesitant to sell and give up that rate for something closer to 6–7%.
2. Fewer New Builds in the Pipeline
While construction has picked up in certain parts of Indiana, material costs, land prices, and labor shortages have slowed the supply of new homes—especially entry-level ones.
3. Strong Demand Isn’t Letting Up
Despite higher rates, buyer demand remains high in desirable communities. Families still want to move for schools, jobs, or life changes—and many are relocating from out of state.
So What Can You Do?
At Talk to Annie Real Estate, I help my buyers take a smarter approach—especially in low-inventory markets like ours.
1. Get Pre-Approved and Be Ready to Act Fast
In this market, the early bird truly gets the house. If you’re not pre-approved yet, you risk missing out while others are writing offers the same day a home lists.
Pro Tip: I can connect you with local lenders who move quickly and can help you compete confidently.
2. Look Beyond Zillow and Realtor.com
Many buyers rely only on public search portals—but the best homes are often sold before they even hit those sites.
I give my clients:
- Access to private listings and “coming soon” homes
- Early alerts from agent-only networks and builder contacts
- Direct outreach to homeowners in target neighborhoods
3. Consider Off-Market Opportunities
I frequently help clients buy homes that were never listed—thanks to my connections with other agents, past clients, and community networks.
If you’re looking in a specific neighborhood, I can even reach out on your behalf to see who might be considering a move.
4. Adjust Your Timeline Expectations
Sometimes, finding your ideal home in this market means being patient and flexible. I’ll help you define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves—and ensure you’re ready when the right fit appears.
It’s not just about rushing. It’s about being prepared to act when it matters.
5. Work With an Agent Who’s Actively In the Market
Not every agent is built for this kind of fast-moving, low-inventory climate. I spend time every single week networking, previewing homes, and studying shifts in local supply. That’s how I keep my buyers a step ahead.
Conclusion: Low Inventory Doesn’t Mean No Opportunity
The market may be tight—but your dream home is still out there. It just takes the right plan, the right timing, and the right agent in your corner.
Thinking of buying in Fishers, Carmel, Westfield, or anywhere in Central Indiana? Let’s connect and get you in position to succeed.
Sources:
- https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics
- https://www.realtor.com/research/housing-market-predictions-2025/
- https://www.homes.com/blog/2024/12/why-housing-inventory-is-so-low/
Photo Credits: Daniel Barnes
