As we roll into the fall selling season, Marin’s housing market is showing signs of renewed vigor. Below is a breakdown of the trends we’re seeing, what that means for buyers and sellers, and what to watch for heading into 2026.

Current Trends in Marin

The median sales price for single-family homes climbed to $1,535,000, up +3.9% year over year.
Homes are selling a bit faster: median days on market dropped to 28 days (versus 31 last year), about a 9.7% decline.
Inventory remains tight. On the last day of August, there were 315 single-family listings, down about 6.5% from the same point last year (337).
The number of properties sold is down — 127 homes closed in August vs. 137 last year (–7.3%).
Buyer demand is evident in pricing dynamics: 36.2% of homes sold over list price, up from 33.6% a year ago (a +7.7% increase).

MARIN COUNTY MARKET | SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCES
YoY Comparison (left), MoM Comparison (right)

Other notable submarket movements:

Some areas are seeing stronger appreciation than Marin at large: for example, Greenbrae reported a 31% year-over-year jump in median price (though sample sizes are small).
San Anselmo saw about 22% increase in median sale price year over year to $1,998,000, while the median sale price year over year in San Rafael dipped by about 3% to $1,525,000.

Mortgage rates are giving the market a spark.

The 30-year fixed rate dropped by ~15 basis points in a week — the largest weekly drop in the past year — which is pulling more buyers (or reactivating sidelined ones) back into the market.

In short: a landscape of tight supply + improving financing conditions + motivated buyers is painting a cautiously optimistic picture for fall 2025 in Marin.

What This Means for Buyers

Increased purchasing power. The dip in mortgage rates helps buyers stretch their budget or qualify for slightly larger homes or more desirable neighborhoods.

Need for readiness. Because competition is still present (many homes are selling over list), buyers need to move decisively: have pre-approval in hand, act fast on new listings, and be prepared to negotiate.
Still limited choices. With inventory down, buyers have fewer options, especially in well-loved neighborhoods or for attractive turnkey homes. It’s more important than ever to monitor off-market opportunities, and to consider being flexible on condition or style.
Potential to leverage timing. Some sellers may get more realistic or flexible as the year deepens, especially if their homes linger, so patient buyers might find bargains later in fall or winter.
Due diligence is key. In a tighter market, defects, deferred maintenance, or hidden costs become more of a concern. Buyers must be disciplined with inspections, disclosures, and understanding comparables. That’s where having an Own Marin agent makes all the difference: someone who’s deeply familiar with the nuances of the Marin market and can help you anticipate challenges, uncover hidden opportunities, and move forward with confidence.

What This Means for Sellers

Favorable pricing environment. With median prices up nearly 4% year over year and many homes selling over list, well-positioned sellers can command strong returns.
Faster closings. Shorter days on market means less time languishing—good homes with proper pricing are likely to move quicker.
Leverage in negotiations. With tight inventory, sellers have more room to negotiate favorable terms (e.g. fewer contingencies, buyer concessions).
Staging and presentation matter. Because buyers are selective with fewer options, homes that show well, are updated, and priced right will stand out.
Avoid overpricing. The month-to-month drop in median price from July to August (–7.7%) underscores how sensitive buyers are to pricing. Overprice and you risk sitting on the market or being forced to a price cut.

Looking Ahead Into 2026

Interest rate trajectory. If mortgage rates continue to ease, more buyers may re-enter — pushing upward pressure on prices. But if rates reverse or flatten, buyer enthusiasm could stall.
Inventory developments. The key question: will new listings ramp up in early 2026? A surge in supply would moderate upward price pressure; continued tight supply will favor sellers.
Macro / economic headwinds. Regional job growth, consumer confidence, and cost-of-living pressures (taxes, insurance, maintenance) will influence buyer appetite in Marin.
Shifts in buyer demographics. Aging populations, remote work, desires for more space or lifestyle amenities (gardens, views) may continue to drive demand for Marin’s more rural or scenic areas.
Micro-markets diverging. Expect more pronounced dispersion: homes in highly desirable locations (water views, walking distance to amenities, top school districts) may outperform, while homes needing significant updates or in less popular areas may lag.
Off-market and pocket listings. As competition stiffens, more deals may be handled quietly among brokers or via network channels, so keeping close relationships with local agents may become more valuable.

Work with Team Own Marin

Navigating Marin’s real estate market today requires more than just knowing the numbers—it takes insight, experience, and a deep understanding of local neighborhoods, trends, and opportunities. Whether you’re buying or selling, an Own Marin agent brings that expertise to your side.

For buyers, we help you move quickly and confidently, identify off-market opportunities, and evaluate homes with a strategic eye. For sellers, we position your home to attract the right buyers, price and market it effectively, and negotiate terms that maximize your return.

In a market defined by tight inventory, shifting rates, and nuanced submarket differences, having a partner who knows Marin inside and out can make all the difference. Own Marin is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your next move is smart, informed, and seamless.

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