Buying a home in San Diego in today’s market might seem a little overwhelming, especially with mortgage rates where they are. You might even be wondering, “Should I hold off until spring when more homes hit the market, and rates may drop?”
But here’s the reality—no one can predict exactly where mortgage rates will go, and waiting could actually work against you. As spring rolls in, more buyers start their home search, competition heats up, and home prices in a high-demand market like San Diego tend to climb because of the competition. That means you could end up in multiple-offer situations, paying more and dealing with the stress of bidding wars.
What if buying now, before the spring rush, actually gives you a better shot at securing a great home with less competition? Here are three reasons why acting sooner rather than later could be a smart move.
1. Less Competition from Other Buyers
Winter is typically a slower season for real estate, which can work in your favor as a homebuyer. Fewer people are actively searching for homes, meaning you’re less likely to find yourself in a bidding war. Instead of feeling pressured to make an instant decision, you’ll have more time to weigh your options and make a move that truly fits your needs.
In San Diego, where the market is usually fast-paced, winter often brings a slight slowdown. Homes tend to sit on the market a bit longer compared to spring and summer, giving buyers an edge when it comes to negotiations. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), properties generally take longer to sell in the colder months, which can translate into more flexibility in price and terms. And, although winter in San Diego is not harsh, buyers tend to slow down during the winter months and pick up again as they go into March.
The Alabama Association of Realtors also highlights the advantage of buying in winter, stating:
“A significant benefit of buying a home in winter is the reduced competition. Because of the perceived benefits of spring, many buyers delay the start of their house hunt. As a result, you will find fewer people competing for the same properties during winter. Less demand can translate into more negotiating power as sellers may be more willing to entertain offers or agree to concessions to get a deal closed quickly.”
For buyers in San Diego’s metro neighborhoods, this can mean better opportunities to negotiate closing costs, repairs, or even a lower purchase price—something that becomes much harder once the spring market heats up.
2. More Negotiating Power Before Spring
When homes stay on the market longer, sellers tend to be more open to negotiation—and that can work in your favor as a buyer. Whether it’s getting a better price, asking for seller concessions, or negotiating for repairs, the winter months often create opportunities that are harder to come by in a highly competitive spring market.
In San Diego, where demand is typically strong year-round, winter is one of the few times when buyers may have a little more leverage. Sellers who list during this season are often more motivated, whether due to relocation, financial reasons, or other time-sensitive factors. As a result, they may be more willing to cover closing costs, agree to repair requests or be flexible on move-in dates.
As Chen Zhao, an economist at Redfin, explains:
“. . . buying during the off season means less competition from other buyers. That means potentially negotiating a better deal.”
When demand slows down, serious buyers stand out. If you’re ready to make a move, you may have more control over the terms of the sale, giving you a better chance to secure a deal that fits your needs.
3. Buy Before San Diego Home Prices Rise
If history tells us anything, it’s that home prices tend to be lowest in the winter months before increasing in the spring. According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), last year, home prices were at their lowest in January, February, and March—right before the spring market picked up and demand surged.
This pattern isn’t new. Data from Bright MLS shows that between 2010 and 2024, home prices in January and February were, on average, 15% lower than peak prices in June. Buying in the off-season gives you a better chance to secure a home at a more affordable price before the competition heats up.
In San Diego, where the housing market is consistently strong, home prices rarely dip significantly. However, winter still offers one of the best windows to buy before demand spikes and bidding wars return. Once spring rolls around, more buyers enter the market, and sellers are less likely to negotiate.
Beyond seasonal trends, home prices tend to appreciate over time, meaning the longer you wait, the more you may end up paying. If you’re financially ready to buy, acting now could allow you to lock in today’s price before it climbs higher in the months ahead.
Bottom Line on Buying a Home Before Spring in San Diego
Spring is often seen as the best time to buy, but making a move before the peak season can put you in a much stronger position. With less competition, more negotiating power, and potentially lower prices, buying in the winter months could be a smart financial move—especially in a competitive market like San Diego.
If you’re thinking about buying a home, now might be the right time to start exploring your options. Connect with a trusted local real estate team in San Diego, like the McT Real Estate Group, and discuss how to take advantage of today’s market before the spring rush begins!
