The Easter eggs may be gone, but the real hunt is just beginning — we’re officially in the spring housing market, typically the busiest and most active time of the year for buying and selling homes.
But let’s face it… this isn’t your typical spring market.
🎥 Watch the full breakdown here:
👉 The Fresh Bread Rule of Real Estate 🍞 (Don’t Miss This Market Tip!)
🚨 A “New Normal” in Real Estate?
Ever since the pandemic, it feels like the idea of a “normal” real estate market has disappeared. And 2025 is no exception.
Yes, spring still brings more listings and more buyers, but today’s market dynamics are shifting fast:
- Buyer demand is more selective.
- Sellers face increased competition.
- Showings and offers are slowing week by week.
In fact, we’re seeing a pattern where the longer a home sits on the market, the fewer buyers show interest — and the harder it becomes to sell.
đź’¸ Affordability Challenges and Buyer Behavior
With home prices still elevated and interest rates near historic highs, buyers are feeling the pressure. Add to that the uncertainties in the economy and politics, and it’s no surprise that today’s buyers are more cautious — and more educated — than ever.
Most buyers are spending weeks browsing their favorite apps, analyzing bedroom counts, bathrooms, square footage, upgrades, and location details. They know what’s out there, and most importantly, they know what they’re willing to pay.
Which leads us to the most critical factor: PRICE.
No matter how nicely staged or upgraded a home is, price is the deciding factor that determines whether a buyer books a showing… or just waits for the next listing to hit.
⏳ The First 10 Days Are Everything
If you’re thinking about selling, know this: the first 10 days your home is on the market are the most crucial.
By that time, most serious buyers in your area have already seen your home online. If they don’t act quickly, it’s often because they’ve made a decision — and it’s not in your favor. Many will simply wait, assuming a similar home will hit the market soon.
So, what happens next? The longer your home sits, the fewer showings and offers you get. That’s when you risk becoming… stale.
🍞 Enter: The Fresh Bread Rule
Let me explain it this way…
Imagine walking into a bakery. There’s a warm, fresh loaf of bread that just came out of the oven, and another that’s been sitting out for 10 days.
Which one would you buy?
It’s obvious — you want the fresh one.
The same principle applies to homes. Buyers naturally gravitate toward what’s new and fresh on the market. Homes that linger begin to lose appeal, even if the only thing wrong is the price.
📊 The Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s take a look at what’s happening right now in Los Angeles and Orange County:
- Over 30% of listings have reduced their asking price at least once.
- Homes sold without a price reduction often receive multiple offers and go above list price.
- Homes with a 1–4% price reduction typically end up selling for 5% less than their original price.
- Homes with a 5%+ price cut often sell for 13% less than originally listed.
These numbers tell a very clear story:
If you don’t price it right from day one, it’ll cost you more in the long run.
🏡 For Sellers: It’s a Beauty Contest and a Price War
If you’re selling this spring, you need to make sure your home stands out in both condition and price. Remember:
âś… First impressions matter
âś… Price drives traffic
âś… Time on market reduces perceived value
Be the fresh bread, not the stale loaf. 🍞
đź’Ľ For Buyers: Be Prepared and Be Strategic
On the flip side, buyers can still find opportunity — especially with inventory continuing to grow. But keep in mind:
- Inflation is sticky
- Rates will stay volatile
- Well-priced homes still attract competition
One smart move? Consider getting TBD approval — that’s a full underwriting loan approval without tying it to a specific property. It makes your offer stronger and gives you the ability to move fast when the right home comes along.
If a home looks great, is priced right, and doesn’t need a ton of renovation… you won’t be the only one who sees the value.
🔑 Final Thoughts
This spring market demands strategy, timing, and awareness of buyer psychology. Whether you’re buying or selling, success in 2025 will go to those who act smart, not just fast.
âś… Price right
âś… Move quickly
✅ And don’t forget — fresh sells.
đź“Ť Serving homeowners throughout San Gabriel Valley & North Orange County
🏡 Top Realtor® | Home Selling Specialist | Probate Certified
