Optimal time to sell your San Diego home
George Lorimer
Monday, January 6, 2025
Optimal Timing to List Your San Diego Home for Sale
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To maximize your home's sale price, timing is crucial. Although April, May, and June typically yield the highest sale prices and buyer demand, these reflect closing dates, not listing dates. Considering the timeline of selling a home, you should plan backward from your desired closing date.
Selling Timeline Breakdown:
- Prep Stage (1–4 weeks): Cleaning, decluttering, and professional photography.
- Marketing Stage (2–8 weeks): Listing, showings, and finding a buyer.
- Escrow/Closing Stage (4–6 weeks): Inspections, appraisals, and paperwork.
- Occupancy After Closing (Optional, 1–4 weeks): Negotiated additional time if needed.
On average, the process from preparation to closing takes 2.5 months.
What's your home worth today?
When to List:
- End of January to Early February: By listing at this time, you can close in April through June when prices are highest.
- Selling Earlier in the Year: Starting early gives you an advantage. If the market rises, you'll benefit from price growth. Additionally, if an offer falls through, you have time to re-list before summer when buyer demand declines.
Pro Tip:
- If your home sells quickly, negotiate for a longer escrow or free rent-back to ensure a smooth transition without moving twice.
- Avoid listing too late in the year, as buyer demand significantly decreases after June, and fall listings can result in lower sale prices.
Starting early in the year, you optimize your chances of a smooth, profitable sale while leveraging peak market conditions.