As spring unfolds in Marin County, the real estate market is experiencing notable and exciting shifts that both buyers and sellers should consider. Here's an overview of the current trends and actionable advice to navigate this dynamic landscape and fast paced market.

In just the first seven days of March, Team Own Marin successfully placed eight homes in escrow—six of which received multiple offers, and two secured through exclusive off-market sales.

Current Market Trends

Days on Market: Although the days on market appear to be creeping up in January 2025, we are seeing this figure to be much lower for well prepped and strategically priced homes in prime neighborhoods of Marin County. These higher days on market in December 2024 and January 2025 can also be attributed to the typical “holiday lull” in fresh inventory and home sales.

Pricing Trends: The median sales price for single-family homes in Marin County decreased by 5.7% year-over-year, standing at $1,460,000 in January 2025, offering potential buyers more favorable yet competitive pricing.

Buyer Activity: Activity is increasing. We’ve seen more buyer activity in the past 3-4 weeks than we have in the past year and a half. Many buyers who were sitting on the sidelines until after the election, the inauguration, or for interest rates to go down are now taking action, realizing that continued competition, rising home prices, and limited inventory will make it even harder to buy if they wait any longer. For many, especially those with growing families, the need for more space hasn’t disappeared, and the urgency to secure a home has only intensified, making them more determined—and in some cases, more desperate—to buy now.

Recent Inventory Spike: There has been a significant increase in inventory, with 125 homes available at the end of January 2025, marking a 42% rise from January 2024. As weather warms up and we head into the spring season more homes will continue hitting the market. In the start of March we've observed a notable spike in new listings, indicating a potential shift towards a more balanced market. This influx provides buyers with more options and could influence pricing strategies for sellers.

Tips for Buyers

Explore New Listings Promptly: With the recent surge in inventory, it's an opportune time to explore the market. Stay updated on new listings and be prepared to act swiftly when you find a property that meets your criteria. Working with a real estate professional who has access to off-market properties can give you a significant edge. Off-market opportunities often attract less competition, allowing you to be the first in and craft a winning offer before a home hits the broader market—especially on properties likely to generate high interest.
Leverage Negotiation Opportunities: The slight dip in median prices or an increase in days on market may provide room for negotiation. Work closely with your real estate agent to craft competitive offers that align with current market conditions.
Secure Financing Early: Obtain mortgage pre-approval to streamline the buying process. This not only clarifies your budget but also positions you as a serious buyer in the eyes of sellers.
Understand Market Dynamics: While increased inventory offers more choices, it's essential to recognize that desirable properties may still attract multiple offers and more competition. Work closely with a local real estate agent who knows how to navigate the nuances of the Marin real estate market.

What Makes A Winning Offer in Today’s Market? In a competitive market like Marin’s, the offers that stand out often share a few key traits. Right now, offers with no contingencies and quick close of escrows are getting the most attention from sellers. But it’s not just about removing contingencies — it’s about being strategic and prepared. At Own Marin, we work closely with our clients to fine-tune their offers with the best possible terms, giving them a strong advantage.

Our success comes from:

Proactive Communication with Listing Agents: By establishing a strong line of communication before the offer deadline, we gain valuable insight into seller priorities and position our clients accordingly.
Thorough Due Diligence Before the Offer Date: Ensuring our clients feel confident waiving contingencies when necessary. From structural inspections to reviewing disclosures, we often conduct inspections before submitting an offer—like completing a pre-offer inspection to give buyers the confidence to move forward without contingencies.
Tailored Offer Strategies: Every offer is unique, and we guide our clients on how to present theirs in the most compelling way possible, often securing off-market opportunities or winning against multiple offers.

With the right preparation and a team that understands how to navigate Marin’s market dynamics, our clients are positioned for success—even in a competitive environment.

Tips for Sellers

Strategic Pricing: Given the year-over-year decrease in median sales prices, it's crucial to price your property competitively. Some of our sellers have recently secured the highest price per square foot in their neighborhoods to date. Another one of our sellers sold their Strawberry, Mill Valley home off-market for $450,000 over asking after investing in minor updates such as new paint, updated light fixtures, landscaping, and professional staging. Conduct a thorough market analysis with an experienced agent who knows your neighborhood well and can properly assess the features of your home to determine an optimal listing price.
Maximize Exposure & Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. When working with our sellers, we take care of the heavy lifting to prepare your home for a profitable sale. Our team of specialists, including painters, landscapers, stagers, photographers, copywriters, and social media experts showcase your home and the lifestyle it represents to attract potential buyers and maximize exposure.
Selling Off-Market: Selling off-market can be a strategic choice if you seek privacy or wish to bypass the traditional listing process. This approach can be particularly advantageous for high-value properties or those with specific timing needs. We discuss the potential benefits and considerations to ensure this method aligns with your objectives and market dynamics.

Looking Ahead…

As spring blooms, Marin County’s real estate market is full of possibilities. With more homes hitting the market, buyers have exciting opportunities—but acting quickly with the right offer is key when the perfect home appears. For sellers, standing out means thoughtful pricing and showcasing your home at its best. In a market that’s always evolving, having a knowledgeable, local real estate professional by your side can make all the difference. With the right guidance, navigating Marin’s spring market can be both successful and rewarding.

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We're excited to be your trusted partner in navigating your next move in Marin. Whether you're buying or selling, we'll guide you every step of the way to ensure a seamless and successful experience. Let's make your Marin real estate dreams a reality.

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