Best Time of Year to Put Your House on the Market

When it comes to selling a home in California, conventional wisdom suggests that spring is the prime time to list. And there's a good reason for this—warmer weather, the end of the school year, and the arrival of tax refunds all create favorable conditions for home buyers. But while spring may be the most popular season to sell, it’s not the only time worth considering. Let’s explore why spring is a great choice and what you need to know about selling during other seasons as well.

As the weather warms up, buyers are more likely to get out and tour homes. California's spring weather is particularly appealing, offering sunny days and mild temperatures that make home tours more comfortable. The vibrant natural scenery, with blooming flowers and green lawns, also enhances your home's curb appeal, making it more inviting to potential buyers.

According to a study by the National Association of Realtors in March 2024,” Best Time to Sell a Home in 2024 Is Coming Soon,” the best time to sell a home is in April. The analysis of home sales trends reveals that sellers could potentially earn up to $34,000 more by listing their homes between April 14 and 20, compared to the beginning of the year. Researchers attribute this boost to a favorable combination of strong buyer demand, limited competition from sellers, and fewer price reductions during that week—all of which work in favor of sellers.

For families with children, timing is everything. Many buyers prefer to purchase a home in the spring to ensure they’re settled in before the start of the school year. Listing your home in spring can help attract these motivated buyers who are eager to close before summer.

Many buyers receive tax refunds in the spring, which can give them extra cash to put toward a down payment on a home. With more financial flexibility, they may be more willing to make competitive offers, which can benefit sellers.

Spring marks the beginning of the busy real estate season. More buyers are actively searching for homes, and there are usually fewer listings on the market compared to the summer months. This can lead to a sense of urgency among buyers, which may drive up demand and help sellers secure a quicker sale at a favorable price.

While spring is a strong choice for many, it's not always possible or practical for everyone. The real estate market is still active in other seasons, though there are some nuances to consider.

So, what about the other seasons? The winter months, especially December through February, tend to see fewer homes on the market. The holidays keep many potential buyers occupied, and the weather can make it less appealing to tour homes. However, the lack of competition can work to your advantage. With fewer homes for sale, you might be able to sell at a higher price or negotiate a quicker closing.

Summer is another busy time for real estate, especially in California, where the warm weather continues. While demand is high, so is the competition, as many other sellers take advantage of the season. Homes may sell quickly, but you might need to be more strategic with pricing and marketing to stand out.

Fall can be a sweet spot for sellers. The rush of summer buyers has subsided, but there is still strong demand, particularly from buyers eager to close before the holidays. While fewer homes are listed compared to spring and summer, there can still be a healthy market with less competition, making it a solid choice for many sellers.

Regardless of the season, your local market conditions can have a significant impact on the sale of your home. Always consult with a real estate agent to get a sense of current trends, the level of buyer demand, and the competition in your area. They can help you determine the optimal time to list your home based on your specific circumstances and the state of the market.

While spring is often considered the best time to sell in California, it’s important to consider your personal timeline and market dynamics. Whether you decide to list in spring, summer, fall, or even winter, understanding seasonal trends and working with an experienced agent will help you make the most of your sale and secure the best price for your property.