Why Spring 2025 Could Be the Best Time To Buy or Sell in SLO County

Is the Housing Market Finally Turning a Corner? Here’s Why 2025 May Be the Right Time to Make Your Move

If you hit pause on your home search last year, you weren’t alone. With low inventory, high prices, and fluctuating mortgage rates, many buyers and sellers chose to wait it out. But the landscape is changing—and it may be time to hit play again.​

📈 Inventory Is Rising—But Still Balanced

According to Realtor.com, active listings in April 2025 rose 30.6% year-over-year, marking the 18th consecutive month of inventory growth. This increase is providing more options for buyers while maintaining a competitive environment for sellers. ​

However, inventory levels are still 16.3% below typical 2017–2019 levels, indicating that the market hasn't fully restocked. 

🏡 What This Means for You

For Buyers: More listings mean more choices and less competition. With the market still below pre-pandemic inventory levels, it's a good time to find a home that fits your needs without the intense bidding wars of the past.​

For Sellers: While inventory is increasing, it's still not at peak levels, meaning your well-priced and well-presented home can attract serious buyers quickly. Listing now could position you ahead of a potential surge in competition later this year.​

🕰️ Timing Is Everything

Experts anticipate that inventory will continue to rise throughout 2025. Waiting too long could mean more competition for sellers and a more crowded market for buyers. ​

✅ Bottom Line

The market is shifting towards a more balanced state, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're looking to purchase your first home, upgrade, downsize, or relocate, now might be the ideal time to make your move.