San Mateo County Market Update November 2025

The pattern we predicted in the spring is playing out almost exactly as expected. Buyers who were out early in the year getting pre-approved and studying the market have now returned with purpose. They are financially ready, emotionally committed, and determined to secure a home before the end of the year.

We are also seeing an important factor that was missing earlier in 2025: improved affordability. Interest rates have been trending down, which gives buyers renewed confidence. Even a small reduction in rates can make a major difference in purchasing power, especially in Bay Area markets where every fraction of a percent counts.

This combination of serious buyers and improving conditions has created a noticeable surge in activity. Open houses that once drew a handful of visitors are now welcoming steady traffic. Listings that might have lingered in summer are going pending after the first weekend. Multiple-offer situations have returned, and well-presented homes are achieving strong results.

We are seeing the results firsthand across San Mateo County.

• 2929 Monterey Street, San Mateo sold 25 percent over asking after just one weekend of jam-packed open houses and a preemptive offer.
• 675 Edna Way, San Mateo drew 11 offers and sold well above asking after strong buyer activity.
• 2627 Ohio Avenue, Redwood City, is now pending after welcoming over 100 groups during its first weekend, reflecting incredible buyer interest.

These examples reflect the energy we have been waiting for. The buyers making offers right now are not casual browsers; they are decisive and qualified. One couple I recently worked with had been searching since April. They took the time to understand pricing trends, follow interest rate changes, and refine their priorities. When the right home appeared, they moved immediately. Because they were prepared, they were able to make a compelling offer and secure their new home ahead of competing buyers.

Momentum is everything in real estate, and right now, momentum favors those who are ready. Sellers who list strategically in late fall benefit from two powerful forces: reduced competition from other listings and concentrated demand from buyers determined to close before year-end.

Many sellers assume that the holidays are a quiet time, but the truth is that serious buyers never stop searching. The casual crowd may step back during November and December, but motivated buyers are out in full force. They want to move before the next rate change, take advantage of current loan approvals, and begin the new year in a new home.



At the same time, inventory remains relatively tight across San Mateo County, which gives well-prepared sellers a meaningful advantage. Homes that are priced correctly, staged effectively, and marketed with precision are drawing strong attention.

1. Preparation Wins: The buyers winning right now are the ones who took time to study the market earlier this year. They understand value and can act with confidence.
2. Timing Matters: Waiting for “the perfect time” often means missing it. The best window is when serious buyers and lower rates align, and that is happening now.
3. Presentation Pays: Sellers who invest in presentation—staging, photography, and repairs—create urgency among buyers. The result is stronger offers and smoother escrows.
4. Experience Counts: Markets in transition require expert guidance. Whether it is interpreting shifting comps or managing multiple offers, experience makes the difference between good outcomes and great ones.
   

Advice for Buyers

If you are planning to buy, treat this as your call to action. Get pre-approved, review your budget under current rate conditions, and be ready to write a strong offer when the right home appears.

There is still competition, but many buyers have stepped back, assuming the holidays are not a good time to purchase. That assumption can work to your advantage.



Focus on long-term value rather than short-term timing. If you find a home that fits your needs and finances, do not wait until spring when competition is likely to intensify again.