More Homes, Slower Price Growth – What It Means for You as a Buyer in San Francisco

If you're looking to buy real estate in San Francisco, now might be the right time. The market is seeing more homes for sale than we've seen in years – and that’s a game changer for buyers like you. Let’s dive into what this means for you.

More Options to Choose From

Right now, there are more homes on the market compared to previous years. In fact, as of October, the number of active listings in the U.S. was up 29.2% compared to the same time last year. While inventory isn’t quite back to pre-pandemic levels, this is a significant improvement for buyers in San Francisco (see graph below).

With more homes available, you have a wider range of choices. You’re not as likely to feel pressured to make quick decisions, and you’ll have more time to find the property that fits your needs. This is especially important in a city like San Francisco, where real estate investment opportunities can be varied but highly competitive.

Slower Price Growth

In past years, limited housing supply caused prices to rise sharply, making it tough for many buyers to keep up. But now, with more homes hitting the market, price growth has started to slow. For San Francisco, this means less price competition and a greater chance to secure a property within your budget.

According to recent data, markets where inventory has bounced back to pre-pandemic levels are seeing slower price growth or even price declines from their peak in 2022. This slowdown can be particularly beneficial for buyers looking for a more stable price point. You may be able to find properties with more room for negotiation, especially in neighborhoods that have seen price appreciation over the past few years.

What Does This Mean for You?

The combination of more inventory and slower price growth could create a unique window of opportunity for both homeowners and real estate investors in San Francisco. Whether you're looking for a primary residence in a sought-after neighborhood like Nob Hill or an investment property in up-and-coming areas like Bayview-Hunters Point, you’ll have more options to explore.

Additionally, as a real estate investor, this shift in the market presents opportunities for long-term wealth building. Slower price growth can allow for better entry points into the market, and with the right strategy, you can capitalize on future appreciation. Plus, the local market’s ongoing transformation presents excellent potential for both residential and multi-family investments.

Bottom Line

The current increase in housing inventory and slowing price growth can give you the advantage of more options and more time to make decisions. If you're considering buying a home or investing in San Francisco real estate, now is a great time to explore your options. With the right guidance from a local expert, you can make informed decisions that align with your goals.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk about the growing number of options available to you right now.