Best Time to Sell a House in California (2026)

California's massive and diverse real estate market shows clear seasonal patterns, though they vary significantly by region. Statewide, May is the peak month with prices running about 8% above the annual average. The spring buying frenzy is driven by families aiming to close before the school year, combined with California's naturally appealing weather during April and May.

The Bay Area (San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland) tends to peak earliest, with March and April seeing intense competition as tech workers armed with stock compensation compete for limited inventory. Southern California (Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County) peaks slightly later in May and June, aligning with the traditional school calendar.

California's Central Valley and Inland Empire markets are more price-sensitive and follow a more pronounced seasonal pattern, with winter discounts of 5-7% off peak prices. Coastal markets in Malibu, Santa Barbara, and Monterey see less seasonal variation due to consistent demand from high-net-worth buyers.

One California-specific factor is that many potential sellers delay listing because of Proposition 13 property tax protections. When they do decide to sell, they tend to cluster in spring, creating both more supply and more competition. Sellers who list in late January or February in California can sometimes capture eager buyers before the spring inventory surge.