What Sellers Are Weighing in Today’s Desert Market

What Sellers Are Weighing in Today’s Desert Market

The housing market in La Quinta and the Coachella Valley isn’t frozen — but the frenzy of years past has clearly faded. Today, we’re in a more moderate, cautious environment: one where strategy matters far more than urgency.

If you’re a homeowner wondering whether the window of opportunity has closed, or a buyer waiting for a crash that hasn’t arrived, here’s the reality of our local desert market.

The Equity Advantage

Even with a slower pace of growth, the equity position for many valley homeowners remains strong.

Meaningful net proceeds.

While we’re no longer seeing the sharp price spikes of the pandemic era, values remain near historic highs. Most homeowners who have owned for three or more years are sitting on substantial equity.

Unlocking options.

Equity isn’t just a number on a statement — it’s flexibility. Whether downsizing into a lock-and-leave home, relocating, or reallocating assets, equity can open doors to what comes next.

Inventory and Days on Market: A New Pace

We’ve clearly moved beyond the “sold in 24 hours” era. Here’s what we’re seeing instead:

More choice, not a surplus.

Inventory is higher than the pandemic lows, but we’re still well below levels that would indicate oversupply.

More deliberate buyers.

Days on market have increased. Homes are still selling — buyers are simply taking more time, asking better questions, and negotiating thoughtfully.

Stability over volatility.

While the pace has slowed, pricing has remained relatively stable. This isn’t a race to the bottom — it’s a return to a more normal real estate cycle.

Why Some Sellers Are Moving Now

If the market feels slower, why list at all? For many homeowners, the answer has less to do with timing the market and more to do with life.

Life doesn’t wait.

Retirement, family changes, health considerations, and lifestyle shifts happen regardless of interest rates.

A softening rate environment.

Mortgage rates are still higher than a few years ago, but they’ve eased compared to last year, reducing the friction many homeowners felt about making a move.

The cash buyer factor.

The Coachella Valley continues to attract cash buyers. These buyers are less rate-sensitive and remain active when a home is well-priced and well-positioned.

The New Rules of Engagement

Rather than calling this a balanced market, it’s more accurate to call it a strategic market. Success today depends on a calibrated approach.

Presentation is paramount.

In a slower environment, “good enough” doesn’t stand out. Homes that show beautifully and feel move-in ready capture attention.

Pricing precision matters.

Overpricing leads to stagnation. The goal is to hit the sweet spot — strong interest without leaving value on the table.

Patience pays off.

Today’s market rewards preparation and negotiation, not speed.

The Hold vs. Sell Question

When I talk with homeowners, I encourage them to stop asking whether the market is hot or cold. A better question is:

“Does today’s market allow me to use the equity I’ve built to support the lifestyle I want next?”

If the answer is yes, the timing may already be right.

If you’re curious about your equity position or how this plays out in your specific La Quinta neighborhood, I’m happy to run the numbers — no pressure, just clarity.