What defines a balanced market in real estate?

A balanced market in real estate is characterized by an equilibrium between the number of properties available for sale and the number of buyers looking to purchase those properties. When the number of listings roughly equals the number of buyers, it indicates that neither party has a significant advantage over the other in negotiations, leading to stable prices and a healthy market environment. In this scenario, buyers can find suitable properties without excessive competition, while sellers can expect reasonable offers without being undervalued.

The other options present scenarios that do not reflect a balanced market. A market dominated by buyers suggests a seller's advantage with high demand and limited supply, which can drive prices up and create competition. A market where prices are continuously increasing indicates a seller's market, where demand significantly outstrips supply. Lastly, a market focused on specific property types does not capture the broader definition of a balanced market, which requires a general equilibrium across the entire market.