When Is the Best Time to Sell a House in Southern California?
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Cheyenne Wiseman Associate EditorCheyenne Wiseman is an Associate Editor at HomeLight.com. Previously, she worked as a writer for Static Media (Mashed.com and Chowhound.com) and as an editor for CBR.com. Cheyenne holds a bachelor’s degree in English from UC Davis, where she also founded and led a literary magazine called Open Ceilings. She has four years of experience writing and editing on topics including real estate, financial advising, and pharmaceuticals.
If you’re getting ready to sell a home in Southern California, timing and preparation can make a big difference — whether your goal is to sell quickly or maximize your profit. Finding the right local agent and presenting your home well are important steps, but when you list your property can also affect the outcome.
To help you decide the best time to sell a house in Southern California, we spoke with Justin Bonney, a HomeLight Elite Agent who sells over 66% more single-family homes than the average local agent. Bonney offers helpful insights and practical tips to connect with serious buyers faster.
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Southern California housing trends
The Southern California housing market is becoming more balanced, though higher interest rates continue to influence buyer behavior.
“Rising interest rates have put some buyers on pause, creating a slightly calmer market compared to the frenzy of recent years,” Bonney says.
Properties in Southern California usually sell within about 25 days after listing. In real estate terms, this time frame is called days on market (DOM), referring to the period between when a property is listed and when a purchase agreement is signed. For context, the national DOM currently stands at 53 days.
The median sale price for homes in Southern California is approximately $888,000, marking a 0.9% upward change year over year.
“Inventory is still tight, especially in desirable neighborhoods, and remote work continues to reshape buyer preferences. Homes with dedicated office spaces, outdoor areas, and updated amenities tend to attract the most attention,” says Bonney.
So, what do these trends mean for sellers? There are still eager buyers out there, but nailing your price and showcasing your home effectively are now even more important to help your Southern California listing stand out amid growing competition.
When is the best time to sell a house in Southern California?
While elevated interest rates continue to affect the market, Southern California typically sees a seasonal upswing in home sales during the spring and summer. In most areas, the best window to sell for top dollar falls between May and September. If your priority is speed, the best time to sell a house in Southern California begins in March. That said, market conditions can vary across different parts of the region.
Since it usually takes 25 days to locate a buyer, plus approximately 40 days for loan closing, it’s wise to list your property two to three months ahead of the busiest selling period.
“Spring fever is real — buyer demand peaks as families aim to move before the new school year, gardens bloom, and homes show beautifully. Statistically, these months often yield faster sales and higher offers, making it the ideal time for sellers to capitalize on increased competition,” says Bonney.
Let’s review local sales data to identify the best time to sell a house in Southern California, whether you want maximum profit or a quick transaction.
Best times to sell a house in Los Angeles
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | August | November | You could sell your house for 2.49% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | March | June | You could sell your house 5 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
Best times to sell a house in San Diego
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | April | July | You could sell your house for 3.02% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | February | May | You could sell your house 4 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
Best times to sell a house in Anaheim
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | May | August | You could sell your house for 4.62% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | March | June | You could sell your house 6 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
Best times to sell a house in Long Beach
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | June | September | You could sell your house for 3.96% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | February | May | You could sell your house 6 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
Best times to sell a house in Santa Ana
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | May | August | You could sell your house for 5.10% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | June | September | You could sell your house 7 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
Best times to sell a house in Riverside
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | June | September | You could sell your house for 3.13% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | May | August | You could sell your house 6 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
Best times to sell a house in Irvine
| Selling objective | List month | Close month | Benefit |
| Best time for higher price | June | September | You could sell your house for 2.14% more than the yearly average. |
| Best time to sell fast | April | July | You could sell your house 6 days sooner than if listed in other months. |
All tables are based on historical home sales data, 2014-2024
“Aside from seasonal patterns, external factors like major entertainment industry events, school calendars, and even LA’s famed traffic can influence buyer interest,” Bonney says.
For insights into home-selling trends in other markets, explore our Best Time to Sell Calculator.
Using this data as a starting point, you’ll be well-equipped to consult with a top-performing local real estate agent who can offer expert advice on the best time to sell a house fast in Southern California, considering your unique circumstances and regional market dynamics.
What’s the worst time to list a house in Southern California?
According to Bonney, the end of the year is typically the slowest stretch for home sales. “While there’s no truly ‘bad’ time to list in Los Angeles, given our active market, December through early January tends to slow down as buyers and sellers focus on holiday festivities and family gatherings,” he says.
However, he notes that strategic sellers who list during slower periods can still do well, as fewer homes compete for buyer attention.
Curious about your net proceeds? Use HomeLight’s free Net Proceeds Calculator to estimate approximately how much you’ll earn from selling your Southern California property.
What seller concessions help close a sale in Southern California?
To help close the deal, many Southern California home sellers are offering buyer incentives. “Popular choices include offering rate buydowns to alleviate buyer concerns over interest rates, providing repair credits after inspections, including comprehensive home warranties, or occasionally covering some of the buyer’s closing costs,” says Bonney.
Here are some common concessions and credits that can make your Southern California home more attractive to buyers:
- Pay a portion of the buyer’s closing expenses
- Assist with a temporary mortgage interest rate reduction
- Provide a credit for repairs based on inspection findings
- Cover fees for the buyer’s home inspection or appraisal costs
- Take care of the initial HOA dues for several months, if applicable
- Pay the commission of the buyer’s agent
- Prepay property taxes or homeowner’s insurance for the first year
Insider tips to help sell your house in Southern California
As a top-rated agent in Southern California, Bonney specializes in guiding home sellers to reach their goals, regardless of challenges or timing.
Here are several of Bonney’s expert recommendations for selling your home:
1. Set the right price from the beginning
Listing above market value often leads to your home sitting unsold and eventually having to accept price cuts. Instead, implement an informed pricing approach anchored in recent sales data (comparable sales). “Pricing competitively from the start maximizes your buyer pool and sparks interest,” Bonney explains.
2. Hire a skilled agent
Choose a knowledgeable local agent experienced in your particular market who can support you with pricing, marketing, and negotiation. A skilled agent will position your Southern California property to attract a solid sale. According to HomeLight’s data, the top 5% of agents achieve sales prices 10% higher than the average.
3. Address key repairs
Fix visible problems such as dripping faucets, cracked tiles, or chipped paint since buyers may view these as indications of deeper issues. Prioritize repairs that offer a good return on investment and help buyers feel confident. An experienced Southern California agent can also advise you on what repairs to avoid.
4. Boost both physical and online curb appeal
Well-maintained landscaping, a spotless exterior, and a brightly lit entrance boost your home’s curb appeal. Online, professional photos and virtual tours help your Southern California listing grab attention right away. “First impressions matter — especially when potential buyers do their initial ‘drive-by’ or scroll online listings,” says Bonney.
5. Declutter and neutralize
Clear out excess belongings, including bulky furniture, personal pictures, and decorations, to make rooms appear more spacious and welcoming. A tidy, neutral environment makes it easier for buyers to picture themselves living in the space.
6. Provide a home warranty
Offering a home warranty can reassure buyers by covering potential repair expenses, particularly in older Southern California properties. This can also help make your listing more attractive in a competitive market.
7. Be accommodating with showings
Allowing easy access for prospective buyers can speed up the sale. Being available for showings during evenings and weekends is especially helpful for buyers from out of town or those with busy schedules.
8. Think about staging
Staging your home often results in quicker sales and higher prices because it helps buyers visualize the space better. Even partial or virtual staging can enhance your listing’s appeal.
Connect With a Top Agent to Sell Your Southern California Home
It takes just two minutes to match clients with the best real estate agents, who will contact you and guide you through the process. To connect with an agent, simply tell us a little bit about your property and how soon you’re looking to sell.
Our data shows the top 5% of agents across the U.S. help clients sell their home for as much as 10% more than the average real estate agent.
Answers to other Southern California home-selling questions
What if I need a fast sale and closing in Southern California?
While some homes in Southern California may sell right away, a quick sale isn’t always guaranteed. If you need to close fast or lack the time and funds to complete necessary repairs, consider requesting a cash offer using HomeLight’s Simple Sale service.
In just a few minutes, you can fill out a brief questionnaire and get a no-obligation cash offer within 24 hours. Simple Sale accepts homes in nearly any condition throughout Southern California, allowing you to forget prep work, showings, and repairs, while closing in as little as 7 days.
What is the biggest mistake Southern California home sellers make?
Bonney says one of the most common mistakes sellers make in Southern California is setting the price too high, often because they’re emotionally attached or overrelying on online estimates that don’t reflect the real market.
“This emotional pricing leads to stale listings and ultimately lower offers. Always lean into local expertise and recent comparable sales to set realistic expectations,” Bonney advises.
Find a top Southern California agent for a successful sale
Ultimately, the best time to sell a house in Southern California depends on your goals. However, selling your home quickly and at the best price doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance, you can make wise choices and avoid common traps.
“If you plan to sell in Southern California, don’t underestimate the power of strategic timing and thoughtful preparation. Beyond the basics, stay flexible, be ready to negotiate, and keep the end goal in sight — selling quickly and profitably,” says Bonney.
Partnering with an experienced agent in your Southern California neighborhood means gaining a reliable advisor to support you throughout a successful home sale. Find a top agent today.
If you’re buying and selling a home at the same time, explore HomeLight’s innovative Buy Before You Sell program. This forward-thinking option lets you tap into your equity to simplify the process. Submit a non-contingent offer on your next home and avoid moving twice. Watch this short video to find out more.
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