09/07/2026
Expert Tips for Selling Your Home This Fall and Winter
Saving up for a 20% down payment in California is a marathon, not a sprint—especially with the current median home price sitting at $776,200 and median income at $105,600. Households are now looking at 14.7 years to save that down payment, and for those earning minimum wage, it could take over four decades. The unique geography of our state—ocean to the west, mountains and protected land to the east—means most new housing ends up in the expensive coastal corridors, keeping prices high. Add in longstanding tax incentives for homeowners to stay put, plus steady job growth in tech and healthcare, and it’s clear why demand keeps pressure on the market.
As someone who has helped clients navigate complex transactions from Berkeley to the SF peninsula—whether it’s a single family home, a multi-unit, probate or trust sale—I see how challenging long-term planning can be, especially for first-time buyers. With wage growth lagging behind home prices, careful strategy is more important than ever in our region. For those thinking about their next move, understanding these timelines and the forces shaping our local market is key to making informed decisions.
