“Is Now a Good Time to Buy or Sell in the Bay Area?”

Hi, I’m Vicky Costantini with The Costantini Team at Compass — helping Bay Area buyers and sellers make smart, confident real estate decisions.

The Question Everyone Asks

Whether you’re considering your first home or thinking about selling your long-time property, one of the most common questions I hear is: “Is now a good time to buy or sell in the Bay Area?”

The truth? It depends on your goals, not just the headlines. Real estate in the Bay Area is highly localized — what’s true in San Francisco might not hold in Walnut Creek or San Jose. But there are clear trends we can unpack.

Current Market Snapshot

As of late 2025, we’re seeing:

Moderate but steady buyer demand, especially for move-in-ready homes in desirable school districts.
Tight inventory, keeping prices resilient even as mortgage rates fluctuate.
Increased selectivity among buyers — properties that are priced correctly and well-presented are still moving quickly.

If you’re buying, this means fewer bidding wars than in 2021, but competition is still healthy for the right homes. If you’re selling, strategic pricing and presentation matter more than ever.

For Buyers: Opportunity in a Balanced Market

While interest rates may feel high compared to a few years ago, many experts expect stabilization or slight easing ahead. Buying now could allow you to:

Negotiate better terms than in past frenzied markets.
Start building equity now, then refinance later if rates drop.
Lock in a home before renewed demand pushes prices up again.
If you plan to stay in your home at least 5–7 years, the long-term value trajectory in the Bay Area remains strong.

For Sellers: Timing Still Matters

Inventory remains limited, which means well-prepared listings can still shine. Homes with updated finishes, great natural light, or outdoor space are in high demand. The key is:

Pricing for today’s buyer mindset.
Maximizing presentation through staging and professional photography.
Marketing strategically across digital platforms — something my team does with precision.

With the right preparation, many sellers are achieving strong results even in a more balanced market.

Think Locally, Not Nationally

National news headlines rarely reflect Bay Area dynamics. Local employment trends (especially in tech and biotech), school reputation, and neighborhood character all shape value differently here. That’s why personalized guidance is so important — even within one city, the story can vary block by block.

Final Thoughts

So, is it a good time to buy or sell?

If you have a clear financial plan and a long-term horizon — yes, it can be an excellent time.

2. If you’re looking for quick flips or emotional decisions — it may be worth pausing and reassessing.

Either way, having the right data, strategy, and advocate makes all the difference.

Lets Talk About Your Goals

Looking to buy or sell in the Bay Area?

Connect with Vicky & Enzo Costantini of The Costantini Team at Compass for trusted local expertise, personalized strategy, and results that move you forward.