In Q2 2025, nearly 59% of home shoppers across major U.S. cities started looking outside their local market. That’s the highest share on record — and yes, that includes Los Angeles.
It’s a big shift, but not a total surprise. As home prices and mortgage rates have continued to climb, buyers are reconsidering what they truly want — and where they can realistically afford to find it. Whether you’re buying or selling, this change is reshaping what success in LA real estate looks like right now.
Let’s break it down.
Why So Many Buyers Are Looking Elsewhere
Affordability is a driving force.
With median home prices in LA hovering above $1 million and interest rates still high, some buyers are hitting pause on their LA dreams. For the same budget, they’re discovering they can get a lot more house — or land — in places like Palm Springs, Las Vegas, Austin, or even smaller SoCal cities like Temecula or Ventura.
Lifestyle trade-offs are real.
It’s not just about price — it’s about quality of life. Do you want a smaller home in a bustling LA neighborhood, or a larger space in a quieter, less crowded town? For families, remote workers, and early retirees, that question is becoming more central.
Remote work is still reshaping decisions.
No longer tied to a five-day commute, many buyers are making strategic moves. They’re seeking balance — a lower cost of living, outdoor space, or a stronger sense of community — even if that means stepping outside the 310 or 213.
What This Means for LA Sellers
If you’re selling in LA right now, this shift has two big implications:
1. You have more competition than you think.
You’re not just competing with the house down the block — you’re competing with homes in entirely different markets. That means buyers are comparing your listing to a three-bedroom home with a pool in Scottsdale or a charming bungalow in Salt Lake City.
2. You need to make your home stand out.
Buyers who are staying in LA are more selective. They’re not just looking for any home — they want the right home, priced correctly, and beautifully presented. Pre-sale prep, staging, smart pricing, and targeted marketing are key to winning their attention.
For Buyers: Don’t Just Follow the Trend — Make a Strategic Move
This is a moment to zoom out and think long-term.
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What kind of lifestyle do you really want?
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Is LA still the right place for you — or is it time to explore other zip codes?
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Can you still find value here? (Yes — in pockets you might not have considered.)
Remember: moving away from LA isn't the only option. Sometimes the better move is just moving differently within LA. Exploring emerging neighborhoods, rethinking space priorities, or taking a longer view on investment potential can open up new possibilities.
Bottom Line: Whether You Stay or Go, Strategy Matters
The real estate landscape is shifting, but not collapsing. People are still buying. People are still selling. What’s changing is how — and where — they’re doing it.
If you're thinking about a move — whether it's across the street or across state lines — having a clear plan and a grounded, data-driven strategy makes all the difference.
Does this make you think about changing up your real estate plans? Give me a call, and we'll strategize how to get you where you want to be!
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