L.A. Is Entering a Buyer’s Market—Here’s What That Means
In the L.A. real estate world, you might hear the terms "buyer’s market" and "seller’s market" get tossed around a lot, but what do they really mean? Simply put, a buyer’s market is when there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. This shift in supply and demand gives buyers a significant advantage. That means if you’re looking at homes in Los Angeles, they stay on the market longer, leading prices to drop and buyers to have more negotiating power.
For anyone looking to purchase a home, that’s good news.
With changing economic conditions, areas like L.A. are currently experiencing a shift to this type of market. As a buyer, you’ll have more leverage than ever to get the home you want, on your terms.
Key Indicators of a Buyer’s Market
Understanding the signs of a buyer’s market is the first step in knowing how to take advantage of it. Here are the key indicators:
Higher Inventory Levels: In a buyer’s market, there are more homes available than there are buyers. In Los Angeles, sellers currently outnumber buyers by about 45%. This surplus of homes gives you more options to choose from, increasing the chances of finding your perfect property.
Price Reductions: Sellers, especially those who have had their homes on the market for a while, may start reducing their asking prices to attract buyers. For you, this means a better chance of scoring a home at a lower price than originally listed.
Longer Time on Market: Homes in a buyer’s market tend to sit on the market longer, as there are more options for buyers to consider. In May 2025, the median days on the market for Los Angeles homes was 45 days, which is up from 39 days last year. As a prospective buyer, this gives you more time to think, compare properties, and make informed decisions rather than rushing into a deal.
Why Buying in a Buyer’s Market Is So Advantageous
All of this amounts to a lot of reasons to start looking to buy a home in L.A. now:
Lower Home Prices: Sellers who are motivated to close a deal will be more willing to negotiate on price.
More Choices and Less Competition: The chances of finding a property that meets your specific needs and preferences are much higher, without worrying about competing against multiple buyers.
Better Negotiation Leverage: In a seller’s market, homes often sell for more than their asking price because of bidding wars. But in a buyer’s market, you’re much less likely to experience this kind of competition, leaving you with more room to negotiate, ask for repairs, and get a better deal.
How to Make the Most of a Buyer’s Market
There are a few steps you should take to get going on your home buying journey in this buyer’s market:
Get Your Financing in Order: Get pre-approved for a mortgage to show sellers that you're a serious and qualified buyer.
Take Your Time: In a buyer’s market, you have the luxury of time. Explore different neighborhoods, compare properties, and really think about what you want in your next home.
Look Beyond the Asking Price: Even though the price might be right, it’s important to consider other factors like the condition of the home, the potential for future repairs, and the long-term value of the property. In a buyer’s market, it’s easier to negotiate these aspects.
The Importance of Working with a Real Estate Agent
If you’re new to the home-buying process or if it’s been a while since you last purchased a home, working with an experienced real estate agent can make all the difference. Here’s why:
Market Expertise: A real estate agent has a finger on the pulse of the current market and can help you find the best properties that fit your budget and needs.
Negotiation Skills: An experienced agent knows how to craft strong offers, and they’ll fight to get you the best deal, even asking for things you might not have considered.
Access to Listings: Many agents have access to listings that aren’t always publicly available, which can give you an edge over other buyers who are relying solely on public listings.
Get In Touch to Start the Journey
The current real estate climate presents a rare opportunity for buyers. With more homes on the market, falling prices, and increased negotiating power, a buyer’s market is a chance to make a smart investment.
If you're ready to start exploring homes or need advice on navigating the current market, don't hesitate to get in touch. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, now might just be the perfect time to make your move, the home you’ve been dreaming of might just be waiting for you.
Contact me today to start your home search and take full advantage of today’s buyer’s market!