Fall is here, and while you might be thinking about cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, let me tell you something unexpected—this is a rare moment where it’s both the best time to buy and the best time to sell a home. Sounds unusual, right? The changes in interest rates after summer have created this perfect window of opportunity. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, this is your moment.
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Sellers:
- Clean Out the Gutters – Nobody loves soggy leaves clogging up the gutters. Clearing them out helps protect your roof and foundation (and buyers will notice!).
- Tidy Up the Lawn – Even though fall means cooler temps, curb appeal is still key. Rake up leaves, trim bushes, and maybe add some seasonal flowers or pumpkins to make things cozy and inviting.
- Check the HVAC System – The last thing you want is for a buyer to worry about a broken furnace as we head into the cooler months. Make sure your heating system is working smoothly.
- Touch Up Paint and Power Wash – Fall light can really show off the exterior of your home, so a quick power wash or fresh coat of paint on the trim can do wonders.
- Consider Seasonal Décor – Adding a few tasteful fall touches like wreaths or potted mums can make your home feel extra warm and welcoming for prospective buyers.
In San Diego, mild weather allows us to keep our yards looking fresh longer into the fall season. Take advantage of this by planting drought-resistant fall flowers, like marigolds and chrysanthemums, which thrive in our local climate.
Taking care of these small maintenance tasks upfront can help you avoid any unpleasant surprises during inspections—and make sure your home shines when buyers walk through the door.
Why Fall is the Perfect Time for Buyers
Now, for those of you on the buying side of things, let me fill you in on some exciting news: the best week of the year to buy is just around the corner! According to experts, September 29th through October 5th is when the market really hits a sweet spot. Why? During this time, inventory tends to be higher, prices dip a bit, and buyers face less competition. It’s the perfect moment to jump into the market if you’ve been waiting for the right time.
Bonus Tip: Mortgage rates have also hit their lowest point in months, meaning your purchasing power has just improved. So, if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, now might be the time to get back in the game and start your home search.
Falling Rates Are Bringing Buyers Back
For sellers, here’s another reason to get your home market-ready: Mortgage rates are falling, and that’s bringing more buyers back into the market. As borrowing costs go down, buyer activity is picking up—which is great news for you! More buyers mean more competition, which can lead to quicker sales and better offers.
In San Diego, the fall market is typically less competitive than the summer rush, making this a strategic time to list your home. With inventory up and rates coming down, you’re likely to see motivated buyers ready to take action before the holiday season.
Whether you’re selling, buying, or just weighing your options, now’s a great time to make your move, and if you are looking for someone to chat about your options with, I’m just a call or email away!
