Homes that linger on the market for 18 weeks close 1.3 percentage points below asking, compared to 1.8 points above for those sold near week four, according to a Realtor.com analysis of national listing performance.

As some agents step back, those who sharpen their skills, communicate clearly and offer steady guidance have a chance to build trust and gain ground, Inman said.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.49% from 6.47% this week, while 15-year rates climbed to 5.84%, Freddie Mac reported. Rates remain below year-ago levels as easing oil prices help cool bond market pressure.

Investment activity is not surging, but it remains strong enough to shape attention around certain homes, especially lower-priced properties and homes with rental potential.