Is the Market Shifting? What Buyers and Sellers in Sonoma & Marin County Need to Know Now

With the recent announcement of new tariffs, many buyers and sellers in Sonoma County and Marin County are wondering: What does this mean for the housing market?

We’re seeing early signs of a shift from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market — a significant change that could bring more opportunities for buyers and new considerations for sellers.

Here’s what’s happening:

• Inventory is increasing, giving buyers more choices.

• Mortgage rates have hit a 6-month low, improving buyer purchasing power and making homeownership more attainable.

• Price reductions are on the rise. In fact, 35% of homes currently listed have experienced a price drop — the highest number for April in over a decade!

What This Means for Buyers:

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, this could be the right time to act. More inventory, fewer bidding wars, and better mortgage rates mean you might find the right home at a better price point. And with more room to negotiate, buyers are gaining the upper hand in many areas of the market.

What This Means for Sellers:

If you’re planning to sell, it’s time to get strategic. One of the best ways to protect your home’s value in a shifting market is to use Compass Private Exclusives and Coming Soon listings. These strategies allow you to test pricing and generate buyer interest without risking public price drops or accumulating days on market — both of which can make a home appear "stale" or less desirable.

In a market like this, presentation and strategy are everything. Buyers will either ask, “How much do I have to pay to get this home?” or “How much can I get off the list price?” The goal is to keep your home in the first category.

Our Advice:

Whether you’re buying or selling, now is the time to talk about your strategy. Every market shift brings both challenges and opportunities — and we're here to help you navigate them with confidence.

If you’d like to discuss what this means for your real estate goals in Sonoma County or Marin County, reach out anytime. We'd love to help you make a smart move in this evolving market.

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