As we wrap up the year, one thing is clear: both buyers and sellers across North County San Diego are navigating a market that feels unfamiliar and unpredictable. With interest rates fluctuating and inventory remaining tight, many people are unsure how to move forward. Here are the three questions we’re hearing most often—and what they actually mean for you.

1. “How am I supposed to find a home when there’s so little available?”

Inventory in North County hasn’t fully recovered, and that leaves many buyers wondering if the right home will ever appear. While the selection is slimmer than in past years, well-prepared buyers are still finding great matches.

Homes are still coming on the market, just not in large numbers. Buyers who stay active, keep their financing ready, and work closely with an agent who has access to off-market opportunities tend to uncover homes others never even see. Being ready the moment the right home surfaces is often what makes the difference.

2. “Should I buy now, or wait for interest rates to come back down?”

This is easily one of the most debated questions in today’s market.

Many buyers are tempted to wait out the interest rate environment, hoping for lower monthly payments down the road. The challenge with that approach is simple: when rates drop, demand tends to spike—and so do home prices. The competition returns quickly.

Buying now often means more negotiating power and less pressure. And if rates fall later, refinancing can help improve your payment more easily than trying to buy in a crowded market.

3. “If I’m thinking about selling, is this the right time?”

Sellers are also uncertain, especially with so many headlines focused on rates. But North County continues to attract strong, qualified buyers—especially those moving for schools, work, or lifestyle upgrades.

What matters most today isn’t timing the market perfectly. It’s preparing the home well, pricing intentionally, and using a strong marketing plan. When those pieces are in place, homes are still selling successfully and, in some cases, very quickly.

The Takeaway

Even with shifting conditions, opportunities still exist on both sides of the market. The key is understanding today’s buyer behavior, staying informed, and creating a plan that fits your timeline and goals.

If you’re considering buying or selling in 2025 or 2026, we’d be happy to talk through your options and help you chart the best path forward.