Los Angeles Real Estate Report

Barrentine Group

BlogMay 17, 2026

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

If your Los Angeles home no longer fits your lifestyle, it may be time to sell. Here's why now is still a great time to make your next move.

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

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Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles?

If your Los Angeles home no longer fits your lifestyle, it may be time to sell. Here's why now is still a great time to make your next move.

When Your Home No Longer Feels Like Home

Owning a home means having a place that's solely your own — one that provides the space, features, and location you and your loved ones need. But life changes, and what once felt like a perfect fit can start to feel like a compromise. After 33 years helping families across Los Angeles navigate exactly this crossroads, I can tell you: there's no shame in admitting your home no longer serves you the way it once did. In fact, recognizing that shift is one of the smartest things a homeowner can do.

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

How Long Have You Been Staying Put?

According to the latest Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average person has lived in their current house for ten years. Think about how much has changed in your life over that span — career shifts, growing or shrinking families, evolving lifestyle priorities. Even if you thought it would be your forever home when you bought it, it doesn't have to be. I always encourage my clients to [explore their options as buyers](/buyers-resources) before settling for a home that no longer fits. The Los Angeles market is dynamic, and your next chapter might be closer than you think.

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

You're Not Alone: Why Homeowners Are Choosing to Sell

A recent survey from Realtor.com finds that, of people considering selling, one in three are thinking about moving because their home no longer meets their needs. And NAR's data confirms this year's top reasons for selling include wanting to move closer to friends or family, retirement, a home that's too small or too large, a change in family situation, and job relocation. These are deeply personal motivations — and each one deserves a thoughtful strategy. Whether you're downsizing from a sprawling Hancock Park estate or upsizing for a growing family in Silver Lake, the key is working with an agent who understands both the emotional and financial dimensions of the decision.

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

Why Now Is Still a Strong Time to Sell in Los Angeles

Here's the encouraging news: we're still in a strong sellers' market across much of Los Angeles. Homes listed at market value and in good condition are attracting serious buyer attention and selling quickly. If you've been on the fence, this is worth paying attention to. Your equity can also power your next move. Thanks to record levels of price appreciation in recent years, there's a good chance you're sitting on significant equity right now. In fact, NAR's report shows that 38% of recent buyers used proceeds from the sale of their previous home to cover the down payment on their next one. If you're curious about your home's current value and what kind of equity you've built, I'd encourage you to [review your selling strategy and resources](/sellers-resources) — or simply reach out for a personalized conversation.

Falling Out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time to Move in Los Angeles

Key Takeaways

  • The average homeowner has stayed in their home for 10 years — if your life has changed, your home might need to change too.
  • One in three potential sellers say their home no longer meets their needs — you're far from alone in this feeling.
  • Los Angeles remains a strong sellers' market, with well-priced homes attracting quick offers.
  • Your accumulated equity can fund your down payment on a home that truly fits your current lifestyle.
  • Work with a local expert who understands LA's neighborhood-by-neighborhood dynamics before making your move.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if it's the right time to sell my Los Angeles home?+

If your home no longer fits your lifestyle — whether it's too large, too small, or in the wrong location — and you've built significant equity, it's worth exploring your options. A local market analysis can help you understand your home's current value and what you could afford next.

Is it still a sellers' market in Los Angeles?+

Yes, much of Los Angeles remains a strong sellers' market. Homes that are priced at market value and in good condition continue to attract motivated buyers and sell relatively quickly.

How much equity do I have in my home?+

Your equity depends on your original purchase price, how much you've paid down your mortgage, and how much your home has appreciated. In many LA neighborhoods, homeowners have seen dramatic appreciation over the past several years. An experienced agent can provide a detailed equity estimate.

Can I use equity from my current home to buy my next one?+

Absolutely. According to NAR, 38% of recent buyers used proceeds from selling their previous home to cover the down payment on their next purchase. This is one of the most common and effective strategies for moving up or transitioning to a new neighborhood.

What are the most common reasons people sell their homes?+

The top reasons include wanting to be closer to friends or family, retirement, needing a different-sized home, changes in family situation, and job relocation. Each of these deserves a tailored selling strategy.

If your home no longer fits your life, let's talk about what comes next. With 33 years of experience across Los Angeles, I can help you understand your equity, evaluate the market, and find a home that truly matches who you are today.

Contact John Barrentine

Free Resources from Barrentine Group

Buying in LA

Buyer’s Guide + Checklists

Free PDFs — neighborhood guides, historic home checklists, market reports.

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Selling in LA

Seller’s Guide + Pricing Strategy

Free PDFs — prep checklist, pricing guide, Q1 2026 market report.

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Ready to buy or sell in Los Angeles? The Barrentine Group has 33+ years navigating the LA market — from probate and trust sales to historic properties in Miracle Mile, Carthay Circle, and the Wilshire corridor.

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Time to Move? When Your LA Home No Longer Fits