Around this time every year, I start hearing the same question from homeowners in Encino and across the Valley: should I list now, or wait until spring? The honest answer is that it depends on your situation. Here’s how I’d think about it.
Where rates stand right now
Freddie Mac’s weekly survey put the average 30-year fixed at 7.32% for the week ending October 22, down from 7.40% the week before, but still well above the 6.19% of a year ago. Whatever you’re planning, that’s the rate environment to run your numbers against.
If you’re thinking of selling
Start with two questions. Is your home ready to show today? A clean, well-priced home gives you the best shot in any month. And does your timeline call for a sale before spring? If it does, listing now can be a reasonable choice. If it doesn’t, you can use the winter to handle repairs, declutter, and plan photos, so you’re ready whenever you decide to list.
If you’re thinking of buying
Run your payment at today’s rates on the specific homes you’d actually want, not on a rate you’re hoping for. And on a home that’s been listed for a while, it can be reasonable to ask about price or credits.
The bottom line
There is no universally right month to sell. There is only your timeline, your home’s condition, and what the numbers look like for you. If you want to talk through a winter sale, or what your home could sell for in today’s market, reach out through my contact page. I’m happy to walk you through it, no pressure either way.
Source: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, week of October 22, 2026 (https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms).