The real estate market in 2025 is unlike any we’ve seen before. With fluctuating interest rates, economic shifts, and unexpected hurdles, it’s crucial to be adaptable and proactive. One thing that’s becoming increasingly clear is that the objections we’ve been facing in past years have changed—and new ones are emerging that are testing even the most seasoned agents.

In the last 90 days, we've seen a surge in three specific situations that are now showing up more frequently in real estate transactions. These new objections require us to not only stay ahead of the curve but also be problem-solvers who can think on our feet. Let’s dive into these real-world scenarios and how we can handle them with confidence and clarity.

1. What if Your Client’s Down Payment Money Comes from the Stock Market?

In recent months, a growing number of buyers are using the stock market as a source for their down payment funds. However, when the market fluctuates—or takes a sharp dip—their down payment could shrink, putting their buying plans at risk.

If your client is relying on stock assets for their down payment, it’s essential to have an honest conversation about the risks. The stock market can be unpredictable, so it’s important to plan ahead. If their funds are tied up in stocks, suggest they have liquid assets ready as a backup. This can help them avoid the last-minute panic that comes when stock values suddenly drop.

In some cases, clients may also consider liquidating a portion of their stock portfolio to secure the down payment, but it’s key to consult with a financial advisor to understand the timing and tax implications. As an agent, the earlier you bring up the possibility of market fluctuations and the effect it could have on their funds, the better prepared both you and your client will be.

2. What if Your Client Has to Start Repaying Their Student Loan Debts?

For many buyers, the federal student loan repayment pause has come to an end, and they’re now facing the reality of monthly payments once again. For those clients who were planning to buy a home or are in the middle of a transaction, these new loan repayments can create a significant obstacle.

Student loan debt affects your client’s debt-to-income ratio (DTI)—one of the key factors mortgage lenders consider when approving loans. Higher loan repayments could push them out of their ideal price range, or worse, jeopardize their pre-approval.

As an agent, it’s essential to address this issue upfront. Help your clients understand how their DTI could be affected and work with a lender who can suggest options, such as looking into different loan products or possibly adjusting their buying budget. If they’re just starting to think about homeownership, it might make sense to delay the purchase until they’ve adjusted to their new loan repayment plan.

One option that’s gaining attention is income-driven repayment plans, which can lower monthly payments and improve DTI. Guide your clients to seek professional advice on how this could impact their ability to qualify for a mortgage.

3. What if Your Client Gets Deported Mid-Transaction?

This one is undoubtedly one of the most complex and difficult scenarios, but it's a real concern that agents need to be prepared for. In the past few months, some clients have faced immigration-related issues that put their transactions at risk. If your client is in the middle of a transaction and suddenly gets deported, their legal status could affect everything from their ability to close the deal to the validity of the contract.

While this is a rare and extreme situation, it’s important to have proactive conversations about immigration status with clients early on. If there’s any concern that their status could change during the transaction, you can work with a legal professional who specializes in both real estate law and immigration to ensure you’re taking the appropriate steps.

If you find yourself in the middle of a transaction where deportation is a concern, your next steps will vary depending on the client’s situation, but immediate consultation with legal professionals is crucial. You might need to explore options like transferring the contract to a co-borrower or pausing the transaction until their legal standing is sorted.

Staying Ahead of the Objections

These three scenarios are just a glimpse of the types of objections and challenges we’re encountering in 2025. The market is shifting, and it’s not enough to rely on the same tactics that worked in the past. Instead, we have to embrace the unpredictability and adapt accordingly.

As real estate professionals, our role has always been to help clients navigate complex situations, and that hasn’t changed. The key is being prepared, staying informed, and being able to pivot when things don’t go according to plan. These new objections are just another opportunity to demonstrate the value we bring to the table.

So, how can you stay ahead of the game? Educate yourself on the latest financial trends, market shifts, and legal complexities. Talk to your clients early about potential risks and help them strategize solutions. And always be ready to pivot when unexpected challenges arise. The market may be unpredictable, but with the right mindset and strategies, we can tackle whatever comes our way.