The Best Month to List Your Home and Why

Sellers often ask if there’s a perfect month to list a home. While no timing guarantees a result, certain months consistently give sellers an advantage because of buyer behavior, competition, and momentum.

Here’s how timing really works, and why one season usually stands out.

Spring Is Still the Sweet Spot

For most markets, spring (March through May) remains the strongest window to list.

Why spring works:

• Buyers are more active and motivated

• Homes show better with natural light and landscaping

• Families plan moves before the next school year

• Inventory feels fresh, creating urgency

Homes listed in spring often receive more showings and stronger early interest.

Early Summer Can Still Perform Well

June and early July can be excellent, especially for well-prepared homes.

What changes:

• Serious buyers are still active

• Some competition increases

• Timing matters more for pricing and presentation

Homes that miss the spring window but launch cleanly in early summer can still perform very well.

Fall Is Underrated but Strategic

September and October are often overlooked, but they attract serious, decisive buyers.

Why fall can work:

• Less competition from other listings

• Buyers tend to be more focused

• Pricing expectations are more realistic

Fall listings may see fewer showings, but those showings often convert.

Winter Is Niche, Not Dead

November through January usually brings lower activity, but that doesn’t mean zero opportunity.

Winter buyers are often:

• Relocating for work

• Facing time-sensitive needs

• Financially qualified and motivated

Well-priced homes can still sell in winter, just with a longer timeline.

Timing Matters Less Than First Impression

Regardless of the month, the first two weeks on the market are critical. A well-priced, well-presented home launched at the right moment outperforms a poorly positioned home in the “best” season.

Seasonality helps, but strategy matters more.

Local Nuances Matter

In markets like Marin County, lifestyle buyers, weather, and inventory patterns influence timing more than national trends. Some neighborhoods perform better in fall or early winter depending on buyer demand and price point.

Final Thoughts

Spring is usually the best month to list because buyer demand peaks and competition feels balanced. But the right time to list is when your home is fully prepared, priced correctly, and launched with intention.