As December began, the Marin real estate market had settled into its typical late-year rhythm. November brought a seasonal slowdown, alongside the continued market reset that unfolded throughout 2025. Inventory had rebuilt, pricing had adjusted, and homes were taking slightly longer to sell. At the same time, buyer demand remained steady for homes that were priced correctly and thoughtfully presented.

Below is a full look at how the Marin market performed in November and what it signaled as we headed into the end of the year.

The Big Picture: Year-Over-Year Trends

November 2025 compared to November 2024 (Single-Family Homes):

Homes for sale: Marin ended November with 220 active listings, up 16.4%.
Median sales price: The median price landed at $1,480,000, down 9.5% year over year.
Price per square foot: $801, a 6.8% decrease from last year.
Closed sales: 159 homes closed, an increase of 15.2%.
Homes selling over list price: 41.5% of homes sold above asking, up 27.3%.
Sale-to-list price ratio: Sellers received an average of 100.7% of list price.
Median days on market: 30 days, consistent with typical November timing.

What This Market Meant for Buyers

November offered buyers more opportunity than the same time last year, though preparation still mattered.

Inventory was up more than 16%, giving buyers more options and flexibility. Softer pricing created additional room for negotiation, particularly on homes that were overpriced or needed updates. At the same time, competition persisted for standout properties, with more than 40% of homes selling above list price.

Homes spent slightly more time on the market, allowing buyers more space for thoughtful decision-making and stronger negotiating positions when conditions allowed.

What This Market Meant for Sellers

For sellers, November reinforced how important alignment with current market conditions had become.

Buyers were still active, but far more selective. Accurate pricing from the start proved critical, as homes that missed the mark often sat longer or required price reductions. Well-prepared, move-in-ready homes continued to attract strong interest and, in many cases, sold at or above asking.

Strategy, presentation, and marketing mattered more than they had in a low-inventory environment.

Sellers who adjusted expectations to match the market saw success, while those chasing last year’s pricing faced longer timelines.

Interest Rate Update: Context Going Into Year-End

In December, the Federal Reserve announced its third consecutive interest rate cut, lowering its benchmark rate to approximately 3.5%–3.75%, the lowest level in nearly three years. What stood out about this decision was that it was not unanimous. Federal Reserve officials were publicly divided on whether inflation or a cooling job market posed the greater risk to the economy. Some policymakers pointed to inflation remaining above the Fed’s 2% target, while others emphasized slowing job growth and rising unemployment as reasons to lower rates and support economic activity. This disagreement highlighted the mixed economic signals heading into 2026 and suggested that future rate moves could be more cautious.

What This Meant Locally

For buyers, lower interest rates helped improve affordability and buying power. In a high-price market like Marin, even modest reductions in borrowing costs supported buyer confidence.

For sellers, rate cuts helped maintain a healthy pool of qualified buyers, even as homes took slightly longer to sell. Well-priced, move-in-ready homes in desirable neighborhoods continued to perform well.

Looking Ahead Into 2026

As of November, Marin was heading into 2026 with a more balanced market. Buyers had more options and leverage than in recent years, while sellers who priced strategically and focused on presentation continued to see strong results. Interest rates remained an important factor in how quickly homes moved and at what price, but market knowledge and strong representation continued to play a meaningful role.

Source: Federal Reserve, December 2025

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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