How Long Does it Take to Sell a House in California?

In our experience, it takes anywhere from 30 days to 75 days to sell a home in California. From listing your home to closing the deal, numerous factors influence the length of time it takes to complete a sale.

Selling a house or selling a condo in California can be both an exciting and daunting experience. Whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned homeowner, understanding the timeline involved in selling a property is crucial for managing expectations and making informed decisions.

In this article, we’ll discuss the intricacies of the California real estate market, the average time a home spends on the market, and the factors that affect selling speed.

Whether you’re looking to put your house on the market in bustling urban centers like Los Angeles or San Francisco or in quieter suburban areas, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and achieve a successful sale.

Additional reading: how fast can a house close with cash

When Is the Best Time to Sell a House in California?

When to list your house can significantly speed up the process and contribute to the success of your home sale in California. Understanding the seasonality and market dynamics can help you strategically plan your listing to maximize your chances of a faster sale. 

Here, we explore the best and worst times to sell a house in the Golden State:

Quickest & Slowest Real Estate Months in California

Quickest Months

Late spring heralds a flurry of real estate activity in California, with April and May often emerging as the quickest months for selling a house.

The pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and renewed enthusiasm from serious buyers contribute to heightened market activity during this period. California homes listed during these months typically spend fewer number of days on the market, thanks to increased buyer interest and competition.

Slowest Months

As the holiday season approaches and temperatures drop, real estate activity in California tends to slow down significantly in December and January. With many individuals focused on holiday festivities and travel plans, there are fewer buyers during this time.

Additionally, inclement weather in certain regions may deter potential buyers from attending open houses or viewing properties. Homes listed during these months may take longer to sell compared to other times of the year.

If you need to sell your house fast in California during the slower months of the real estate market, we’re here to help. Our team at SoCal Home Buyers specializes in facilitating fast and hassle-free home sales, even during traditionally sluggish periods. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in selling your home efficiently, regardless of the time of year.

Additional reading: How to find real estate investors in your area

Best Month to Sell a House in California From a Price Perspective

June stands out as another advantageous month to sell a home in California at a premium asking price.

With summer vacations on the horizon, prospective buyers are motivated to secure their new homes before embarking on vacation adventures. This heightened demand, coupled with a limited inventory, often leads to increased competition among buyers, ultimately driving up prices.

Sellers who strategically list their properties during this time can capitalize on this market dynamic and potentially fetch higher offers for their homes.

Is It a Good Time to Sell a House in California Now?

As of 2024, the real estate market in California remains robust. House prices are continuing to rise steadily, with a median sale price of houses in June 2023 reaching $796,400, according to Redfin.

This figure is expected to grow even further in 2024. However, it’s important to note that market conditions can vary depending on location, with certain areas experiencing stronger demand and higher prices than others. 

Things That Affect How Long It Take to Sell a House in California

Several factors can affect how long it takes to sell a house in California, regardless of the current market conditions:

Listing Price

Setting an optimal listing price is crucial for attracting potential buyers and ensuring a successful sale while considering the cost of selling a house in California.

Over-pricing your house can lead to prolonged periods on the market, as prospective buyers may be deterred by inflated prices. 

Conversely, unde-pricing may result in missed opportunities for maximizing profits. Striking the right balance by pricing competitively can generate interest and offers from qualified buyers, ultimately expediting the selling process.

Property Condition

A well-maintained home that is properly staged to highlight its best features is more likely to attract attention and sell faster than one in need of necessary repairs or updates. Investing time and resources in enhancing the curb look appealing and interior presentation of your home can greatly enhance its marketability and lead to a quicker sale at a desirable price.

Additional reading: How long to resolve title issues

Location

Homes situated in highly sought-after neighborhoods or areas with desirable amenities, such as good schools, convenient access to transportation, and proximity to recreational facilities, tend to command higher offers from interested buyers.

Market Competition

In markets characterized by high demand and limited inventory, properties often sell more quickly as eager buyers compete for available homes.

Conversely, an over-saturated market with an abundance of listings may result in longer listing times, as sellers vie for the attention of a smaller pool of potential buyers.

Economic Factors

Economic indicators such as interest rates, employment trends, and consumer confidence exert a significant influence on buyer behavior and overall market activity.

Fluctuations in these factors can impact the timing and pace of home sales, as buyers may adjust their purchasing decisions in response to changes in economic conditions.

While the current market conditions in California may present favorable opportunities for selling a house, it’s essential to consider these additional factors to optimize your selling process and achieve a successful outcome.

Final Thoughts

Timing your listing strategically, considering factors such as property condition and location, and staying informed about economic indicators are all essential for achieving a successful sale.

While certain months like April, May, and June may offer optimal opportunities, the overall condition of the real estate market and localized trends should guide your decision-making, just keep in mind the California real estate laws when making a decision.

Seeking guidance from experienced real estate agents can provide valuable insights tailored to your specific circumstances, ultimately helping you navigate the selling process with confidence and achieve your desired outcome.

We’re experts on the process of selling a house for cash, and our team is here to assist you every step of the way. Call today for a fair cash offer on your home!