It may still technically be winter, but Los Angeles didn’t get the memo. We’re in the middle of a historic heatwave — the kind of stretch where it feels more like late August than March — and that early, almost-spring energy is showing up in the real estate market too.
There’s a shift you can feel. Longer days, golden light, open houses that suddenly feel a little busier… the market is quietly waking up. I did just check on a Spanish fixer house that had 51 offers on it, but it was grossly underpriced... and I think agents are still nervous from the last half of 2025 when things were quite slow.
Buyers are coming back out. Open houses are busier than they were a month ago, and I’m seeing more serious conversations happening — not just browsing, but people actually preparing to make moves. That said, buyers are still thoughtful. Interest rates are keeping everyone a bit more measured, so when someone does decide to write an offer, it’s usually with intention.
On the seller side, more homes are starting to hit the market — which is typical for this time of year — but inventory is still relatively tight, especially in neighborhoods across Northeast LA. The homes that are well-prepared and priced right are getting strong attention, and in some cases, multiple offers. The ones that miss the mark are sitting longer and requiring adjustments.
In other words: it’s a market that’s rewarding strategy.
What’s especially interesting right now is the balance. We’re not seeing the frenzy of past years, but we’re also not in a slow market. It’s something in between — more nuanced, more human. Negotiation matters. Preparation matters. Story and presentation matter more than ever.
As we move into the heart of spring, I expect activity to continue building. More listings will come on, more buyers will re-engage, and we’ll likely see a bit more competition — especially for homes that hit that sweet spot of price, condition, and location.
If you’ve been thinking about making a move this year, this is actually a really interesting window. You get ahead of the peak spring rush, but still benefit from renewed energy in the market.
As always, if you’re curious about what this looks like for your specific situation or neighborhood, I’m always happy to talk it through.
Christine Craven
DRE 02134343
(323) 452-1787
christine@christinecravenhomes.com
