A Shifting Market Means Smarter Pricing A few years ago, homes were flying off the shelves and getting multiple offers well over asking price. It felt like sellers could name their price and still have buyers lined up at the door. But today’s housing market is different. Inventory has grown, buyers are more selective, and homes are sitting on the market longer. Many sellers are having to adjust their price expectations to stay competitive. The Disconnect Between Buyers and Sellers A recent Realtor.com survey shows 81% of home sellers still believe they’ll get their asking price or more. But actual data tells a different story: According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 44% of recently sold homes went for less than the asking price. 1 in 3 sellers had to cut their price at least once before their home sold.

The California real estate market is showing strong signs of recovery , with home sales reaching their highest level in over two years . Declining mortgage rates and an increase in available inventory have fueled a resurgence in buyer activity, signaling a potential shift in the market. However, regional trends remain mixed , and uncertainty still lingers as the market heads into the second quarter of the year. Let's take a closer look at the key insights shaping California's real estate landscape.

Avoid Surprises and Keep Your Home Sale on Track Selling a house comes with a lot of moving pieces, and the last thing you want is a deal falling apart over unexpected repairs uncovered during the buyer’s inspection. That’s why it pays to anticipate potential issues before buyers ever step through the door. And one way to do that is with a pre-listing inspection. What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection? A pre-listing inspection is essentially a professional home inspection you schedule before putting your house on the market. Just like the inspections buyers conduct after making an offer, this process identifies any issues with your home that could impact the sale—such as structural problems, outdated HVAC systems, or necessary repairs. While it’s a great option for those who don’t like surprises, Bankrate explains that it’s not always necessary: “While it can be beneficial for a seller to do, a pre-listing inspection isn’t always necessary. For example, if your home is relatively new and you’ve been the only owner, you’re most likely already aware of any big issues that could impact a sale. But for an older home, a pre-listing inspection can be very insightful and help you get ahead of any potential problems.” The key is deciding whether the benefits outweigh the costs for your situation. A few hundred dollars now could save you time, stress, and negotiation hassles later on. Why a Pre-Listing Inspection May Be Worth It in Today’s Market In today’s market, buyers are more cautious about their spending and want to ensure their home is a sound investment. A pre-listing inspection can be your secret weapon to boost buyer confidence and ensure a smoother selling process. Here’s how: Gives You Time To Make Repairs: Knowing about issues ahead of time allows you to fix them on your schedule , rather than scrambling to make repairs when you’re under contract. Avoids Surprises During Negotiations: When buyers find problems during their inspection, it can lead to last-minute negotiations, price reductions, or even a deal falling through. Addressing these concerns in advance means fewer unexpected roadblocks. Helps You Sell Faster: According to Rocket Mortgage , homes in top condition tend to have fewer buyer concessions and shorter negotiation timelines , helping you sell more quickly. How Your Agent Will Help Before scheduling an inspection, be sure to talk to your real estate agent . They’ll help you decide whether a pre-inspection is worthwhile based on the current market conditions in Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Novato, and Marin County. If moving forward with an inspection makes sense, your agent will assist with: Prioritizing Repairs: If issues arise, your agent will help you determine which repairs will be deal-breakers for buyers and what you can skip. Disclosure Requirements: In some states, sellers must disclose known issues. Your agent will ensure you comply with local regulations and guide you through the process. Bottom Line While a pre-listing inspection isn’t required, it can be especially helpful in today’s market. By understanding your home’s condition ahead of time, you can take control of the process and make informed decisions about what to fix before listing. Skipping this step means you could be just as surprised as your buyer by what their inspection reveals—potentially putting your sale at risk. Would you rather fix issues now or scramble to save the deal later? Let’s connect to discuss whether a pre-listing inspection makes sense for your home!