September 2023 Santa Barbara Real Estate Market

Hello, Santa Barbara and Montecito! I’m Daniel Zia, CEO of Zia Group at eXp Realty, and here’s your data-driven September real estate market update:

Market Trends

• High interest rates continue to affect buying power. Buyers are wary due to less favorable borrowing conditions.
• Despite interest rate challenges, the market remains relatively stable. Buyers’ demand and constrained supply balance out, resulting in consistent pricing.
• Uncertainty surrounds the Federal Reserve’s decisions on interest rates. While they may hold steady for now, one more rate increase is predicted by year-end.
• The luxury market remains strong. August witnessed ten sales over $5 million, indicating optimism and confidence.

Inventory

• Inventory levels are critically low. As of August, there’s an average of only two months of inventory for affordable and overall markets.
• Buyers face fewer options with approximately 20% fewer homes available compared to the previous year.
• Condo inventory is down by about 27% this year compared to the previous year, leading to a 29% decrease in sales activity.

Pricing

• There’s a surge in activity in the $2-3 million price range, with 17 sales in a single month, typically selling within 2-3 weeks.
• The market sees significant cash offers, comprising about 43% of transactions. Even with a slight drop from July’s peak of 49%, it’s still above the typical 38-42% range.

Sales Activity

• The market has experienced a decrease in sales activity in 2023, aligning closely with the low sales year of 2009, with just over 500 sales year-to-date.
• Luxury home prices generally see a 7% discount from the asking price to the final sale price.
• The condo market remains stable, with quick sales and a 2% average discount from the asking price.

Looking Ahead

• Prices will remain relatively stable, with only minor fluctuations depending on the market segment.
• Overall, the market is in a state of equilibrium, but it requires more sellers to maintain a balanced market.

In this data-driven real estate landscape, it’s essential to stay informed. If you have specific questions or need personalized guidance for your real estate goals, please reach out. Until next time, Santa Barbara and Montecito, have a great day!