San Diego Real Estate - How Can Prices Be Strong When 1 in 4 Homes Does Not Sell

George Lorimer
Thursday, September 3, 2026

San Diego Housing Market

Want the Good News—or the Bad News?

The same San Diego market is producing two completely different outcomes.

Buying, selling—or trying to do both?

Call/Text George: 858-434-5040

Schedule a free 15-minute San Diego real estate strategy call.

First, the Good News

San Diego home prices remain strong. Single-family homes posted a median price of $1,115,000, while condos and townhomes posted a median of $657,000. Both categories sold for approximately 99% of their final asking prices.

That sounds like sunshine and clear skies—and for some sellers, it is.

Now, the Bad News

Approximately 1 in 4 San Diego listings was pulled from the market without selling.

Among the homes that sold, 30% required a price reduction and 55% sold below their original asking price.

Homes selling within 10 days received approximately 99.6% of asking. Homes taking more than 100 days received approximately 89.6%. On a $1 million home, that difference is about $100,000.

How Can Both Stories Be True?

Because there isn’t just one San Diego housing market.

There is a market for desirable, well-presented homes priced to compete—and another market for homes that buyers believe are overpriced for their location, condition or features.

The outcome depends on your competition, presentation, pricing and, most importantly, the amount of buyer demand for your particular home.

If You’re Selling

Your first 10 to 14 days are critical. That is when the largest pool of active buyers will notice your home.

  • Compare your home honestly with the homes buyers can purchase instead.
  • Price it correctly from the beginning instead of chasing the market downward.
  • Package and present the home so buyers immediately understand its value.
  • Listen to repeated showing feedback. When buyers mention a problem, mentally add the words “for that price.”

If You’re Buying

Do not assume every home is selling immediately or attracting multiple offers. Older listings can provide some of the best negotiating opportunities.

I can help you identify:

  • Homes with recent price reductions
  • Listings that have been sitting longer than competing homes
  • Homes that fell out of escrow
  • Off-market and unlisted homes
  • Assumable mortgages and builder incentives
  • Properties where the seller may consider credits or flexible terms

The Problem With Broad Market Advice

It isn’t your fault if the market feels confusing. Headlines, online estimates, experts and even AI tools usually summarize averages. They cannot tell you exactly how your home will compete or which properties a buyer may be able to negotiate.

Averages don’t determine your outcome. Your strategy does.

Let’s Build Your Simple Plan

Whether you need to buy, sell or coordinate both moves, let’s spend 15 minutes identifying the best strategy for your situation.

Call/Text George at 858-434-5040

George Lorimer | ProWest Properties | DRE# 01146839

Your Home Sold Guaranteed, or I’ll Buy It!*

*Conditions apply. Guarantee subject to terms and qualification.


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