Should You Buy Now or Wait? Breaking Down the Fall 2025 Market in LA & Ventura

The real estate market in Los Angeles and Ventura counties is shifting, and buyers are asking the same question: “Should I buy now, or wait for rates to drop further?” With mortgage rates still higher than historical lows but showing signs of easing, understanding the timing, trends, and local market dynamics is crucial for making the right move.

Current Mortgage Rates & What They Mean for Buyers:
As of September 2025, average mortgage rates have begun to trend downward after a period of steady increases. While rates aren’t at the historic lows of 2020-2021, even a small drop can save buyers tens of thousands over the life of a loan.

Why Waiting Can Be Risky:

• Home prices are stabilizing but not dropping sharply. Delaying a purchase in hopes of huge price declines could mean missing out on the perfect property.

• Inventory is still tight in many desirable neighborhoods — especially West Hills, Woodland Hills, Calabasas, and Thousand Oaks — so selection may shrink.

• Competition remains strong for well-priced homes, meaning buyers who wait may face more bidding wars when rates do fall.

Opportunities for Today’s Buyers:

• Lock in favorable rates now: Even a 0.5% difference can add up.

• Negotiate with motivated sellers: Homes that have been on the market longer may offer flexibility.

• Focus on neighborhoods with long-term growth: Look at micro-markets along the LA/Ventura corridor, where value tends to hold over time.

Conclusion:
The decision to buy now or wait is personal, but the Fall 2025 market is presenting unique opportunities. With mortgage rates showing signs of easing, inventory still tight, and competition active, many buyers may find acting sooner rather than later is the smartest financial move.

CTA:
Have questions about the best strategy for your situation? Contact Anthony Guetzoian at Century 21 Valley Properties, 818.266.1100, for a free, personalized consultation.