05/28/2026
If you're thinking about buying or selling this spring, here's what I'm seeing in the market—and what could make or break your decision.
One in three home sellers right now are sitting on mortgage rates under 6%. That's a huge factor in whether they'll list or wait. If you're a seller, this is the reality: your buyer pool includes people locked into lower rates, which means your home needs to be priced right and show beautifully. If you're a buyer, understand that you're competing with sellers who are hesitant to move—which means less inventory, but also more negotiating power if you're prepared.
Here are the pitfalls I see most often:
**For Buyers:** Don't assume your credit score is "good enough." Lenders look beyond the number—they want to see stable employment history, a low debt-to-income ratio, and ideally some cash reserves. A 620 credit score might get you approved for a conventional loan, but it won't get you the best rate. If you're a first-time buyer, know that California has over 2,600 down payment assistance programs available, with average benefits around $18,000. Many buyers don't even know these exist.
**For Sellers:** Staging matters more than you think, but so does pricing. I've watched sellers leave tens of thousands on the table because they didn't price competitively in the first two weeks. Your home's first impression—curb appeal, clean spaces, neutral colors—directly impacts offers. Don't skip this step.
**For Everyone:** Get pre-approved or pre-qualified before you start looking or listing. It shows you're serious, and it gives you real numbers to work with instead of guessing.
I've been helping families across the Central Valley and Central Coast navigate this market for over a decade. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a military family relocating, or a seller ready for your next chapter, I know what works in your specific market.
Let's talk about your situation. Call or text me at 661-303-3157 (Central Valley) or 805-916-9555 (Central Coast), email [email protected], or visit my agent page. The spring market moves fast—let's make sure you're ready.
# # # # #
