For the last few years, it’s been a seller’s market across much of the country, especially here in San Diego. Homes moved quickly, multiple offers were the norm, and buyers had to act fast—and bid high—to compete. But now, we’re seeing a shift. Some areas are still competitive, while others are beginning to slow, offering buyers a bit more breathing room.
We are no longer in a one-size-fits-all market. And understanding what kind of market you’re in can make all the difference when it’s time to buy or sell.
A Quick Refresher: What’s the Difference?
In a buyer’s market, there are more homes available than there are buyers. This gives buyers leverage—more time to make decisions, more room to negotiate, and more options overall.
In a seller’s market, the opposite is true. Inventory is tight, demand is high, and sellers often see quick sales and stronger offers, sometimes even over asking.
So, Where Are We Now?
After years of strong seller advantages, the market is beginning to even out. According to Zillow’s latest data, we’re trending toward a more balanced environment—one where neither side holds all the power.
That shift shows up in several ways:
• Homes are taking a bit longer to sell
• Bidding wars have cooled
• Buyers are negotiating more frequently
• Sellers are making concessions they wouldn’t have considered a couple of years ago
In short, it’s a different landscape than it was in 2021 or even early 2022.
What’s Driving the Change?
Inventory is one of the biggest factors. In regions like the South and West, housing supply has increased significantly, which has led to softer pricing and more buyer-friendly conditions.
But in places like the Northeast and Midwest, inventory remains low. Those areas continue to favor sellers—at least for now.
What’s important to note is this: real estate is hyper-local. Even within a single city, different neighborhoods can behave very differently. That’s why local insight is so valuable right now.
What It Means for You
Whether you’re buying or selling, your strategy should reflect current market conditions—and those conditions depend on where you are located.
A thoughtful, local approach makes all the difference: pricing a home correctly, knowing when to negotiate, identifying opportunities, and understanding what buyers or sellers in your area are prioritizing right now.
As Zillow puts it:
“Agents are experts on their local markets and can craft buying or selling strategies tailored to local market conditions.”
That’s the advantage of working with someone who not only knows the data, but lives and works in the community.
Thinking of making a move in Carmel Valley?
Let’s talk about what the market looks like here in Carmel Valley, San Diego, and how it might influence your next step. Whether you’re starting to explore your options or preparing to make a move, we are here to help you understand the current dynamics—clearly and confidently.
