The best month to sell a home often depends on your market, but in San Francisco and Marin, spring and early fall consistently deliver faster sales and higher prices thanks to strong buyer demand and limited inventory.
Why Timing Matters in Real Estate
When it comes to selling a home, timing isn’t everything, but it matters a lot. The month you choose to list can influence how quickly you attract offers, how competitive buyers become, and ultimately how much you take home at closing. Local market rhythms are shaped by seasonality, interest rates, and buyer psychology.
The Power of Spring
Spring is traditionally the strongest season to sell, and for good reason. Buyers who’ve been waiting out the winter rush into the market, gardens and curb appeal are at their best, and families aiming to move before the next school year are highly motivated. In San Francisco and Marin, February through June often bring above-average activity and shorter days on market.
By late September, I often remind clients who are considering a spring sale to tune out the news cycle. November and December are typically full of “doom and gloom” headlines as people hunker down for the holidays. But then January arrives, and life restarts. That’s when momentum builds, leading right into the spring real estate season, which, interestingly, begins in late January, technically still in winter...gotta love California!
The Fall Advantage
Fall is a close second. From Labor Day through Halloween, the Bay Area sees a burst of buyer activity. The weather is still pleasant, homes show beautifully, and motivated buyers want to close before the holidays. This “second season” can rival spring, especially for well-prepared listings. The catch? It’s a short window, which makes getting your ducks in a row well before Labor Day essential.
When to Avoid Listing
Summer and late winter tend to be slower. Many buyers are traveling in July and August, and December brings the distraction of the holidays. Homes can still sell during these months, but competition is thinner, and properties may linger longer on the market. That said, if your home is a standout, the “off times” can actually work in your favor. With fewer high-caliber listings available, motivated buyers often compete fiercely for the right property.
Market Shifts to Watch
Mortgage rates and inventory trends can outweigh seasonal patterns. For example, a sudden drop in rates may fuel demand in months that are usually quieter. That’s why sellers benefit from keeping a close eye on market updates, not just the calendar.
Bottom Line
The best month to sell your home in San Francisco and Marin is often spring or early fall, but the “right” timing also depends on your personal goals, your property’s strengths, and current market conditions.
➡️ Thinking of selling? Let’s talk strategy for your home and your timeline.
Oliver Burgelman
Broker Associate | Vanguard Properties
DRE# 01388135
📞 415-244-5846
