The Future of the San Diego Housing Market: A Mixed Outlook

San Diego, known for its sunny beaches and warm climate, has recently been a hot spot for real estate. However, the future of the San Diego housing market appears to be mixed, with conflicting reports about the direction of prices and demand. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at what the experts are saying and what it means for buyers and sellers in the San Diego area.

Median List and Sale Prices on the Rise

According to data from December 2022, the median list price of homes in San Diego County was $849.9K, and trending up 7.7% year-over-year. This suggests that demand for homes in San Diego remains high and that prices are continuing to rise. However, this trend may not last forever.

Projected Drop in Prices

Realtor.com predicts that prices of homes in San Diego will drop by 27% in 2023 due to a shortage of buyers who can afford the high prices. This is a significant decline and could significantly impact the real estate market in San Diego. Buyers who have been waiting for prices to come down may finally have their chance, but sellers could face difficulties as the market slows down.

Steady Growth in Population

Despite the potential drop in prices, the San Diego area is projected to grow steadily. The population is anticipated to be 3,648,640 by 2035, which is great news for real estate developers and those in the construction industry. With more people moving to the area, demand for homes is likely to remain strong, which could help offset any price decline.

Strong Demand for Single-Family Homes

The San Diego real estate market for single-family homes priced at $1,000,000-$2,000,000 had a total market time of 37 days and an absorption rate of 1.1 months in January 2023, both up from January 2022. This suggests that demand for high-end homes remains strong and that the market for these homes is robust.

Rising Consumer Prices

According to the Consumer Price Index for the San Diego Area, the cost of living increased 8.2% over the last 12 months, with the housing item of the index showing a 7.3% increase from September 2021. This is good news for homeowners, as it means that their homes are likely to appreciate in value. However, it also means that buying a home in San Diego could become even more expensive, which could make it difficult for some people to enter the market.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the future of the San Diego housing market is uncertain, with conflicting reports about the direction of prices and demand. While prices are expected to drop, population growth and strong demand for high-end homes suggest that the market will remain strong. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, it's important to stay informed about the latest trends and to work with a trusted real estate professional who can help you navigate the market.