When Is the Best Time to Buy a House in California in 2024?

What Are the Best Months to Buy a House in California?

March to June are the best months to buy a house in California. During these months, low competition and competitive prices can get you a good deal on your future home.

Here are the best months to purchase your home, depending on your requirements:

Month	Best For	Average Median Price
April	Discounted Prices	$763,400
August	Increased Listings	$792,000
November	Reduced Competition	$793,400

Which Is the Best Season to Buy a House in CA?

Spring is the best season for a low-on-cash home buyer wanting to buy a house in California. Sellers are easier to negotiate with because there are more homes for sale and fewer buyers.

If you’re looking to buy a home, here’s what you get in each season:

• Spring: The real estate market competition is high but open to lower asking prices. Home demand usually rises in March, April, and May.
• Summer: Summer is the peak season with an active housing market and competitive buyers. Moreover, you have a larger inventory to choose from in June, July, and August.
• Autumn: Fall has determined sellers who look to settle elsewhere before winter. That’s why they are open to negotiations and may accept lower asking prices in September, October, and November.
• Winter: Housing prices are at their lowest in December, January and February. The festive season reduces the competition in the housing market, giving you the ability to find your dream home at a negotiable price.

California Housing Market Conditions

The current real estate market conditions in California are becoming favorable for home buyers. Here’s how:

1. Lower Mortgage Rates: The interest rates for home loans have decreased to 7.01%, marking a decline from approximately 8% in the preceding year of 2023. Concurrently, there has been a surge in new listings in the market. This surge allows buyers to easily find some of the cheapest places to live in California.
2. Reduced Asking Prices: Currently, home sale prices are still high, and there’s a shortage of potential buyers. Due to increased competition, sellers are forced to reduce their asking prices to attract more buyers. There is a 1.0pt rise in homes with price drops.
3. Significant Decision-Making Flexibility: The median days on the market have decreased from 49 to 35 days. This still gives buyers significant time to consider their decision.

Top California Home Buying Tips in 2024

Buying a house in CA is an exciting experience. But, it can be stressful and confusing, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Here are some tips to help you through it:

1. Check Your Credit Score: Assess your financing options by reviewing your credit score. A good credit history can help you get the required score for lower interest rates.
2. Save for a Down Payment: To save for a down payment, first, adhere to the 50-30-20 budget rule, allocating 20% of your income for savings. Next, cut expenses and seek opportunities to earn extra income. Finally, consider investing wisely to grow your savings.
3. Get a Pre-Approval Mortgage: A pre-approved mortgage helps when you’re bidding on a house by showing how much you can afford.
4. Find a Good Real Estate Agent: An experienced real estate agent in California can save you time and money. They understand the market and can fulfill your requirements.
5. Negotiate Repairs: After a home inspection in California, ensure major issues are fixed before finalizing your loan. You can always take care of minor issues in the future.
6. Always Do a Final Walk-Through: Do this diligently as this is your final opportunity to inspect the house. Ask questions and address any outstanding issues before they become your responsibility.

» Steps to Buy a House in California: Here is a step-by-step guide to buy a California house in 2024.

Bottom Line: Is 2024 a Good Time to Buy a House in California?

Yes. This is the best time to buy a house in California.

With the current trend in the CA housing market, you’ll find better deals on your dream home during Q2 2024. As per Fannie Mae, mortgage rates may drop more in Q2 of 2024 due to economic changes, inflation, and central bank policy adjustments.

Even though it’s a seller’s market, increased housing supply and reduced mortgage rates may result in lower prices for buyers. Additionally, slower sales could create favorable conditions for those looking to buy a home.

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