When Is the Perfect Time To Move in Chico, CA?

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to buy or sell a home in Chico, you’re not alone. With mortgage rates shifting and home prices fluctuating, it’s easy to hesitate. Maybe you’re holding out for lower rates or hoping prices will drop—but here’s the truth: trying to time the market perfectly almost never works.

There’s No “Perfect” Market

No matter when you decide to move, there will always be trade-offs. The key is knowing how to make the most of the opportunities available.

Let’s take a look at the last five years in real estate:

• A few years ago, mortgage rates hit record lows. Buyers rushed to lock in those low rates, leading to intense bidding wars and skyrocketing home prices. It was great for financing, but competition was fierce.
• Today, mortgage rates and home prices are higher, making affordability more of a challenge. But on the flip side, there are more homes on the market than we’ve seen in years—which means buyers have more options and less pressure to engage in bidding wars.

Every market comes with its own pros and cons. Instead of waiting for the "perfect" time, focus on the trends that benefit your situation and lean on a professional to help you navigate the rest.

Making the Market Work for You

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Chico, it’s all about strategy. A knowledgeable local real estate agent and a trusted lender can help you explore creative solutions to fit your budget and goals.

For Buyers:

• Consider different housing types—maybe a condo or townhouse is a smart first step.
• Look at homes that may need a little TLC for a better deal.
• Be open to different Chico neighborhoods that offer value without sacrificing lifestyle.
• Explore loan programs and down payment assistance to make financing work for you.

For Sellers:

• With inventory up, smart pricing and great marketing are key. A skilled agent will help you stand out.
• Many buyers in today’s market are looking for move-in-ready homes, so small upgrades can make a big difference.
• Understanding local demand in Chico will help you time your sale wisely.

As Yahoo Finance puts it:
"Buying a house at a time when both mortgage rates and home prices are favorable is a challenge. You probably shouldn’t try to time the housing market . . . Buy when it makes sense for you personally."

Bottom Line

There will never be a perfect time to move—but there will always be opportunities. If buying or selling a home in Chico is part of your 2025 plans, let’s talk about how to make the most of the market right now.

Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat and create a plan that works for you.