This Is The Best Time to List a House

Did you know that California’s housing market has its own version of March Madness? That’s right, this phenomenon is called the “magic window,” which opens between mid-March and mid-April. The window is actually more like a porthole; not everyone gets to look at the other side. Those who want to sell quickly for the top dollar always keep an eye out for this magical four-week window, and so should you—that’s what your realtor would say anyway. Put your home on the market during these four frenzied weeks and watch interest kick in like clockwork. By the time June rolls in, you’ll be ready to close. But before you start rushing, here’s what you need to know about the best time to list a house.

When is the best time to sell a house?

So why is spring the best time to list a house? Is it really a good time to sell your home? The answer is pretty simple—with greater demand comes greater competition. One of the reasons is the following: families like to close deals and move during summer break; no school means their children don’t have to miss class. And, on top of that, it’s much easier to move during the warmer months than during frigid, snowy winters; it saves you a frosty drive.

In addition to the buyer hibernation during winter months, there’s also a bit of seller psychology involved in the whole process. Sure, homes are the prime attraction, but lush lawns, colorful flowers, and sparkling inground pools are the details that make your listing really pop. Keep these tips and tricks in mind and take advantage of the market, it’s a seller’s world out there.

The Best Time to Sell a House in California 

Attention California homeowners thinking about selling! If you're trying to pick the best time to list your home, let us help you cut to the chase: May and July are prime times to put your property on the market, with June 28th being the optimal day. On this day, homes typically sell for 9.1 percent above their estimated value.

This trend holds true across most U.S. markets, including many in California. In fact, in approximately 85 percent of the Golden State's metropolitan areas, listing your home in May, June, or July maximizes your chances of a lucrative sale.

To get a sense of the market and what might be required to achieve full retail value for your home, start by checking out other homes listed for sale in your area. Assess their condition and address any necessary repairs on your property. If you're considering more substantial renovations, go ahead, but remember that these require a significant investment of both time and money. If the project is large, you might need to bring in a professional to manage it effectively.

The Best Time of the Year to sell a house in Los Angeles 

If you’re listing your home in La La Land, you’ll be glad to know that sellers here are always at an advantage. L.A. homes are always in demand since there isn’t enough housing available for the entire population. This has caused significant off-balance in the supply-demand chain, causing prices to skyrocket in value. As a seller, that’s always great news because the best time of year to sell a house in Los Angeles is always—everyday is your lucky day. 

Data on the SoCal housing market shows that Los Angeles homes sell on average for around $700,000—we have a lucrative job market and fantastic weather to thank for that. If you’re after maximum profits, the best time to put your house on the market is June. Remember that the average selling time of a home is just shy of two months. This means, if you list your house in June, then the sales in July or August will give you at least a five percent greater return when compared to the average selling prices.

For those looking to act quickly, April and May are optimal. However, from March through October, home sellers typically experience a slower time. But if there’s one major faux pas—it’s winter listings. On top of a ten-day-long listing period, winter is generally considered a dead time for real estate.

The Best Months to Sell a House in San Francisco

Curious about the housing market in the Bay Area? First thing’s first—timing is key. Before making a decision about your listing, think carefully about whether it’s a good time to sell a house. If it is, you’ll have payoffs beyond your imagination.

Usually, the first several months of the year pass by more slowly, with few listings to choose from. But by the time the magic window opens, demand spikes and competition skyrockets. And surprise, surprise—springtime is the best time of the year to sell your house in San Francisco.

Spring months usually mean an increase in price and inventory, meaning sellers have more opportunity to close at the greatest percentage. Another huge factor is the number of days your home stays on the market. If it’s been on there for too long, your listing may become subject to neglect and less attractive to potential buyers. Listing your house too soon means pushing it down the list as other homes pop up at a better time. Make sure to prepare your listing far in advance and strike when the time is right.

The Best Time to Put Your House on the Market in San Diego

When it comes to listing your San Diego home, there are certainly good times and bad times. While the city experiences seasonal fluctuations, you will still be able to sell your home relatively easily.

Homes in San Diego are typically on the market for an average of 79 days, with longer listing periods during the winter and shorter ones during spring and summer. And unquestionably, the first half of May is the sweet spot—as we’ve already established, it’s the best month to sell a house.

Compared to any other time of the year, home sellers typically make $1,600 more during this period. Other good times to sell a house are during the end of May and the first half of June.