San Diego Real Estate - How Can Prices Be Strong When 1 in 4 Homes Does Not Sell
San Diego Housing Market
Want the Good News—or the Bad News?
The same San Diego market is producing two completely different outcomes.
Buying, selling—or trying to do both?
Call/Text George: 858-434-5040Schedule a free 15-minute San Diego real estate strategy call.
First, the Good News
San Diego home prices remain strong. Single-family homes posted a median price of $1,115,000, while condos and townhomes posted a median of $657,000. Both categories sold for approximately 99% of their final asking prices.
That sounds like sunshine and clear skies—and for some sellers, it is.
Now, the Bad News
Approximately 1 in 4 San Diego listings was pulled from the market without selling.
Among the homes that sold, 30% required a price reduction and 55% sold below their original asking price.
Homes that sold within 10 days received about 99.6% of the asking price. Homes that took more than 100 days received about 89.6% of the asking price. On a $1 million home, that difference is about $100,000.
How Can Both Stories Be True?
Because San Diego isn’t just one housing market.
There is a market for desirable, well-presented homes priced to compete—and another market for homes that buyers believe are overpriced for their location, condition, or features.
The outcome depends on your competition, presentation, pricing, and, most importantly, buyer demand for your particular home.
If You’re Selling
Your first 10 to 14 days are critical. That is when the largest pool of active buyers will notice your home.
- Compare your home honestly with the homes buyers can purchase instead.
- Price it correctly from the beginning instead of chasing the market downward.
- Package and present the home so buyers immediately understand its value.
- Listen to repeated showing feedback. When buyers mention a problem, mentally add the words “for that price.”
If You’re Buying
Do not assume every home is selling immediately or attracting multiple offers. Older listings can provide some of the best negotiating opportunities.
I can help you identify:
- Homes with recent price reductions
- Listings that have been sitting longer than competing homes
- Homes that fell out of escrow
- Off-market and unlisted homes
- Assumable mortgages and builder incentives
- Properties where the seller may consider credits or flexible terms
The Problem With Broad Market Advice
It isn’t your fault if the market feels confusing. Headlines, online estimates, experts, and even AI tools usually summarize averages. They cannot tell you exactly how your home will compete or which properties a buyer can negotiate.
Averages don’t determine your outcome. Your strategy does.
Let’s Build Your Simple Plan
Whether you need to buy, sell, or coordinate both moves, let’s spend 15 minutes identifying the best strategy for your situation.
Call/Text George at 858-434-5040George Lorimer | ProWest Properties | DRE# 01146839
Your Home Sold Guaranteed, or I’ll Buy It!*
*Conditions apply. Guarantee subject to terms and qualifications.