San Mateo County Market Update August 2025

Back-to-School, Back-to-Business

Education has always been at the heart of my story. I came to this country to earn my master’s degree, believing that learning could open the door to a better life. It did. That same drive to learn is what fuels my work today. I believe in educating my clients so they can make smart, confident decisions about buying or selling a home.

In both education and real estate, timing matters. Just like you wouldn’t show up halfway through a semester and expect to ace the final, you can’t step into the market without a plan and expect to get the best result.

The Back-to-School Market Shift

Every August, priorities shift. Families are busy with meet-the-teacher nights, sports sign-ups, and new routines. For two to three weeks, real estate isn’t top of mind for many households.

For sellers, this is the time to prepare quietly so you’re ready when demand rebounds.

For buyers, this means fewer people touring homes, less competition for you.

By the end of August and into early September—right after Labor Day—activity picks up fast. Buyers who’ve been waiting jump back in, and sellers who prepared early get the first wave of attention. Early September is often one of the most active times before the holiday slowdown.

Why Sellers Should Act Now

If you want to sell this fall, you should already be in prep mode. Use August to:

Make Repairs and Updates – Even small improvements like fresh paint, updated light fixtures, or landscaping can have a big impact on how buyers perceive your home.

Schedule Photography and Marketing – Professional photography takes time to arrange. Getting this done early means you’re ready to launch the moment you want to hit the market.

Strategize Your Launch Date – A well-timed listing can put you in front of the largest possible audience when buyer activity is peaking.

Starting early means you hit the ground running when demand is back, not scrambling to catch up.

Why Buyers Can Benefit from the Current Market

If you’ve been frustrated by bidding wars earlier this summer, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. With fewer buyers actively shopping during the back-to-school period, you may find:

More Negotiating Power – Fewer offers mean sellers may be more flexible.

Time to Think – Tour homes without making snap decisions.

Access to Hidden Gems –  Some August listings fly under the radar with fewer buyers watching

By getting pre-approved and ready to move, you can secure a home before competition heats back up.


My Advice? Don’t Wait.
The best time to start your strategy was yesterday.

The next best time is today.

It’s not a standstill—there are still motivated buyers and sellers right now. But if you want to take full advantage of the post–Labor Day market, start preparing today. Whether you’re selling into peak demand or buying while competition is low, I’ll give you the facts and the plan to help you win.

Want to know how to win in today’s market?

 Let’s start your strategy now—so you’re ready when the fall market heats up.