Los Angeles Real Estate Report

Spring Is Here — But What Does the Market Actually Look Like?

The housing market has been through a remarkable amount of change recently, and I know many of my clients — whether they're buying their first home in Silver Lake or selling a family estate in Hancock Park — are wondering what to expect this spring. Will more homes come on the market? What's happening with prices and mortgage rates? And most importantly, what should you do right now?

After 33 years navigating the Los Angeles real estate market, I can tell you that spring almost always brings renewed energy. But this year, the dynamics are especially nuanced. So rather than speculate, let's hear directly from the economists and analysts who track this data every day.

What Are the Experts Saying About the Spring Housing Market in Los Angeles?

More Buyers, More Competition — But Also More Inventory

Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, notes that we're seeing more competition among buyers right now. She points out that housing supply typically grows during the spring months, and this is also the season when migration picks up as people graduate and relocate for new opportunities. Here in Los Angeles, that migration pattern is something I watch closely — it drives demand across neighborhoods from the Westside to the San Gabriel Valley.

Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, echoes a cautiously optimistic tone: "Like the flower buds of spring, the housing market is showing signs of improvement." He notes that a pickup in activity with inventory still relatively low bodes well for home prices. For sellers considering a move, that's a significant signal. If you're exploring your options, our [seller resources page](/sellers-resources) breaks down what to expect at each stage of the listing process.

Should You Wait — Or Act Now?

Rick Sharga, Founder and CEO of CJ Patrick Company, offers some of the most direct advice I've seen this season: "If you can find a home you love and can afford at today's prices, don't wait. Home prices in most of the country are unlikely to crash, and mortgage rates will only come down very gradually if they decline at all this year."

That perspective aligns with what I've observed across the Los Angeles market for decades. Buyers who wait for a perfect moment often find themselves competing harder and paying more later. The best time to buy is when you're financially ready and you find the right home.

Jeff Tucker, Senior Economist at Zillow, adds an important caveat: while the market is friendlier for buyers who can overcome affordability hurdles, competition is stronger than many expect because there simply aren't enough homes to go around. New listings are increasing — they almost always do this time of year — but not nearly as quickly as usual. For buyers preparing to enter this market, I recommend reviewing our [buyer resources](/buyers-resources) to make sure your financing, strategy, and expectations are aligned before you start making offers.

Key Takeaways for the Spring Market

• →Spring brings more buyer competition and modestly growing inventory — but supply remains tight across Los Angeles.
• →Home prices are expected to hold steady or rise slightly, supported by low inventory and sustained demand.
• →Mortgage rates are unlikely to drop dramatically this year — waiting may not yield the savings buyers hope for.
• →Sellers are in a strong position while inventory stays low, especially in desirable LA neighborhoods.
• →Buyers should get pre-approved, assemble their advisory team, and be ready to move quickly when the right home appears.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're thinking about buying your first home or selling a property you've held for decades, I'd love to help you navigate this spring market with confidence. Let's talk about your goals and build a plan that works.