If you’ve been watching the market in North County San Diego, you may have noticed a subtle but important shift: homes are taking a bit longer to sell.

This change is not a warning sign. It is a sign of normalization.

After several years of record-low inventory and lightning-fast sales, the market is settling into a more sustainable rhythm that benefits both buyers and sellers.

What Is Causing Homes to Take Longer to Sell?

Several factors are shaping today’s timeline:

1. Buyers Are More Deliberate
   With higher borrowing costs than in previous years, buyers are weighing decisions carefully. They are comparing homes, evaluating value, and ensuring the right long-term fit before making offers.
2. Pricing Strategy Matters More Than Ever
   In the ultra-competitive market of recent years, homes could command aggressive pricing and still sell quickly. Today, buyers are highly attuned to value. Homes priced in alignment with current conditions continue to attract strong interest.
3. Inventory Has Improved
   While inventory remains relatively low by historical standards, buyers now have more options than they did during the peak frenzy. This added choice naturally extends decision timelines.

What This Means for Sellers

A longer time on market does not mean reduced demand. It means preparation and strategy are essential.

Sellers seeing the best results are those who:

• Price their homes based on current data, not last year’s headlines
• Invest in presentation, staging, and professional marketing
• Remain flexible and open to buyer feedback

Well-prepared homes are still selling and, in many cases, achieving excellent results.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, this shift creates meaningful advantages:

• More time to evaluate options
• Increased negotiating power
• Greater opportunity to include contingencies

This environment allows buyers to make confident decisions rather than rushed ones.

A Healthier, More Balanced Market

The current pace in North County San Diego reflects a market moving toward balance. Homes are still selling. Buyers are still buying. But the process is more thoughtful and sustainable for everyone involved.

If you’re considering a move, understanding these evolving dynamics is the key to making informed decisions in today’s coastal market.