Why Waiting Might Cost You: Buying in San Diego's 'Low Inventory' Market

June 25, 2025

If you've been thinking about buying a home in San Diego, you've probably noticed something: there's not a lot out there. Inventory is tight. And while interest rates, headlines, and economic chatter may tempt you to sit on the sidelines, waiting could quietly be costing you.

Here’s why timing matters in a low-inventory market—and what smart buyers are doing instead of waiting around.

1. Prices Aren’t Dropping—They’re Climbing Even with higher rates, San Diego's home values have stayed strong, and in many neighborhoods, they're still inching upward. Why? Demand hasn’t gone away. People still want to live here, and the supply isn’t catching up. That imbalance keeps prices buoyant.

2. Interest Rate Dips = Buyer Stampede When rates drop even a little, more buyers flood the market. That means more competition for every decent listing—and often, higher final sale prices. If you're pre-approved now, you might actually have a better shot at landing a home before that next rate drop triggers another buying frenzy.

3. The "Right" Time Is Personal Trying to time the market perfectly is like catching lightning in a bottle. The better move? Focus on what makes sense for your life and financial picture. If you're planning to stay put for 5+ years, short-term market shifts matter less than locking in a home that works for you now.

4. You Can Always Refinance, But You Can't Rewind Price Jumps Yes, rates may go down. And when they do, refinancing is an option. But if home prices continue to rise while you wait, you could end up paying more overall.

Bottom Line: If you're ready, get in the game. Waiting for the perfect market could mean missing your window entirely. The key is working with someone who knows how to navigate low-inventory conditions, uncover off-market opportunities, and negotiate hard when competition heats up.

If you’re serious about buying in 2025, let’s talk. I’ll help you stay ahead of the curve and make smart, confident moves—even when the market isn’t making it easy.