When’s the Best Time To Buy or Sell a Home in Sonoma County?

By Shawn Hermosillo

Shawn Hermosillo, founder of Hermosillo Real Estate Group (HRE), is a Sonoma County native with deep roots in the community and a passion for real estate.

Are you unsure whether now is the right time to buy or sell? I get this question all the time: “Should I wait for prices or interest rates to drop before making a move?” It’s totally understandable, especially with all the news and headlines about the market.

The honest answer? It really depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It all comes down to your personal situation and what works best for you. Here’s what it means for buyers and sellers.

For buyers, timing and urgency matter. If you are a buyer and do not have to move right away, with no job change, lease ending, or strict timeline, the best approach is simple. Talk to your loan officer, get fully approved, and be ready to act when the right home comes along. This way, you will not feel rushed and can make confident decisions.

If you do need to move because of work, downsizing, or other life changes, the current market actually works in your favor. Interest rates are lower, prices are softening, and homes are staying on the market longer. This gives you more room to make strong offers, negotiate better deals, and find opportunities that were not available last year.

One thing to remember is that the more specific your requirements are, the fewer homes will match them. Staying flexible gives you a better chance to find the right home.

Why timing matters when selling your home. Sellers often ask me two questions: “Should I wait until summer when the market is better?” or “Should I wait for the market to improve?” The answer really depends on your situation.

If you have to sell because of a job transfer, downsizing, or family reasons, and you also plan to buy a new home, you are usually selling and buying in the same market. Waiting might get you a higher selling price, but it could also mean paying more when you buy. The real goal is to get into the home you need when you need it.

If you are selling just for convenience, it becomes more of a personal financial choice. That is why getting a professional market analysis is so important. If the numbers make sense now, great. If not, waiting might be the smarter move.

The truth is, the real estate market is not just “good” or “bad.” It is about what is right for you. None of us can predict tomorrow, so my goal is to help you make the best decision today, whether that is buying, selling, or waiting.

If you would like a personalized strategy based on your goals, reach out anytime at (707) 280-5040 or email shawn@hermosillogroup.com. I can guide you through the current market so you feel confident in your decision and make the move that works best for you.