The Real Cost of Waiting to Buy or Sell in Sonoma & Marin Counties

When it comes to real estate, timing isn’t everything — but it can make a big difference. In today’s Sonoma and Marin County housing markets, waiting even six to twelve months to buy or sell can come with a very real price tag.

For Buyers: Higher Payments, Less Equity

With the average home price in our area hovering around $850,000, even modest appreciation adds up quickly. At a 5% annual increase, that same home could cost nearly $893,000 in just six months — and over $935,000 in a year. That means:

• Higher monthly payments: Waiting a year could add nearly $500 per month to your mortgage.

• Lost equity growth: Delaying means missing out on tens of thousands in appreciation that earlier buyers will capture.

Here’s a look at how waiting can play out for a typical $850,000 home purchase (assuming 10% down and a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.5% interest, principal and interest only):

Cost of Waiting — Sonoma & Marin (Based on $850,000)

• Buy Today: $850,000 price | $765,000 loan | ~$4,835/mo | $0 equity lost

• Wait 6 Months (5% appreciation): $892,500 price | $803,250 loan | ~$5,080/mo | $42,500 equity lost

• Wait 12 Months (10% appreciation): $935,000 price | $841,500 loan | ~$5,320/mo | $85,000 equity lost

This example is for illustration purposes only and is not a loan estimate. Actual payments will vary based on credit, down payment, and loan terms.

For Sellers: A Unique Market With Unique Timing

Sellers also face the cost of waiting, and in our unique Bay Area market — especially here in Marin and Sonoma Counties — timing matters. Well-priced, move-in-ready, and one-of-a-kind homes are still attracting multiple offers, while properties that need work or are mispriced may sit longer on the market.

For the first time in a while, we’ve also seen a few multiple-offer situations in the vacation home market — a segment that had been quieter recently. This shows that buyers are re-engaging in lifestyle-driven purchases, which is an encouraging sign for sellers in those categories.

If you delay listing, you risk missing the window where demand is strongest. Seasonal slowdowns, shifting affordability, and rising inventory later this year could all impact your bottom line. Selling sooner helps you maximize your equity while market momentum is still on your side.

What This Means for You

The cost of waiting is personal — it depends on your goals, your current home, and the type of property you’re targeting. That’s why we offer a custom “Cost of Waiting” analysis for both buyers and sellers in Sonoma and Marin Counties.

Curious how waiting could affect your bottom line? Reach out today and we’ll create a personalized report to help you make the most informed decision.

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