Spring housing market 2025, San Diego real estate market, Buying a home in San Diego

The spring housing market is here, and if you’re thinking about making a move, you’ve probably heard a lot of predictions and advice. Some of it’s useful, some of it not so much.

So, what’s the real story? Realtor.com’s Chief Economist, Danielle Hale, recently gave some advice to her own neighbor about buying a home—advice that honestly applies to anyone buying or selling right now. Here’s what you actually need to know about the 2025 spring market, based on expert insights and data from Zillow.

1. Timing the Market? It’s Risky.
Zillow found that homes listed in late May sell for $5,600 more on average. Sounds great, right? But here’s the thing:

In 2022, March was the best month to sell.
In 2023, it was June.
And for 2025? Who knows.
The truth is, mortgage rates, local demand, and inventory matter way more than any month on the calendar. Danielle Hale hit the nail on the head when she said, “There are always reasons to be uncertain in the housing market. My advice is to keep your eyes open, and when you see the home that’s a good fit for you, go for it.” Trying to outsmart the housing market is like trying to guess the stock market—it’s pretty much a guessing game.

2. Serious Buyers Are Always Looking.
A common myth is that most buyers wait until late spring to start looking. In reality, serious buyers are already out there, checking out homes. With mortgage rates constantly changing, buyers are jumping in and out of the market all year long. They’re not waiting for May—they’re waiting for the right opportunity. If you’re selling, don’t assume that waiting for May will bring better buyers. The right buyer could already be looking for your home.

3. Mortgage Rates Matter More Than the Season.
This is where things get a little unpredictable. If mortgage rates drop, buyers flood the market, no matter the time of year. If rates rise, demand cools off, even in a “hot” market. Danielle suggested that we stop stressing over short-term fluctuations and focus on long-term plans. If you’re buying and plan to stay in the home for at least five years, trying to time the market just isn’t worth the stress.
For sellers, this means that if buyers see an opportunity, they’ll jump in—whether it’s May, March, or July. The key isn’t when to list; it’s how to make your home as appealing as possible.

4. Local Insights Matter Most.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is trusting national headlines over their local market trends. Zillow found that the best time to sell can vary a lot by city. For example, in San Diego, the best time to sell might be as early as Later January, while in places like Phoenix, sellers hit peak prices in November. Danielle put it perfectly: “National numbers help give context, but what really matters is what’s happening in your market.”

5. The Right Listing Strategy Can Make or Break Your Sale Price.
Sellers often focus on when to list, but how you list your home is just as important—if not more.
Zillow found that:

Homes listed on the MLS sell for 1.5% more than off-market listings.
Homes with high-quality photos, 3D tours, and interactive floor plans sell for 2% more.
Homes with popular features—like updated kitchens, outdoor spaces, or smart home tech—can get thousands more in offers.

Sellers who take the time to maximize exposure and highlight the right features will get top dollar—no matter the month.

What’s happening in San Diego?

Inventory: Up 4.6% year over year.
Median Sale Price: For all of San Diego is $960,000, but this depends largely on your zip code.
Days on Market: Homes sold in 34 days in February.
Want a closer look at what’s happening in your neighborhood? Just reach out, and I’ll get the info to you.

Final Thoughts
The big takeaway? Don’t wait around for the “perfect” moment to buy or sell.
For buyers: If you find a home that fits your needs and budget and you plan on sticking around for a while, make the move.
For sellers: Focus on strategy, not just timing.
The market doesn’t wait for anyone, and the best deals go to those who are ready to make a move.

Looking for specific information, please reach out to us anytime we would love to help!