From Summer Nights to School Days

By Summer Knight
2025 President
Santa Barbara Association of Realtors

Another summer has come and gone, and just like that, school is back in session. My family wrapped up our summer with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure traveling through Africa for a few weeks. It was incredible, and I enjoyed every minute of it! I’d love to know, what did you do this summer? Did you travel, hit the beaches, or just enjoy a slower pace at home?

Here in Santa Barbara, our real estate market also tells its own seasonal story. Families with school-age children often try to move before the first day of classes, so late summer is usually busy. As September rolls in, things may quiet down briefly, but activity rarely stops. Buyers like retirees, second-home seekers, and investors help keep the market moving right through fall and winter.

This year, we’re noticing a few shifts. More homes are coming onto the market, and they’re taking a little longer to sell. Buyers seem more cautious, especially with homes that are priced too high or in need of updates. At the same time, move-in ready homes continue to draw strong interest.

Looking ahead, fall can be a surprisingly good time for buyers. With fewer competing offers, there’s often more room to negotiate and sellers are more motivated before the slower winter months. For sellers, this may be a season to take a fresh look at pricing and make adjustments if needed.

As always, Santa Barbara’s coastal beauty, lifestyle, and limited housing supply continue to keep demand strong over the long run. The market may shift from season to season, but our community remains one of the most desirable places to call home.

Here’s to a smooth start to the school year and an autumn full of opportunity—for students, families, buyers, and sellers alike.

Jennifer Berger is a top producing, third generation California REALTOR® with Compass, bringing 28 years of experience in residential real estate, serving Santa Barbara and its surrounding communities. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Santa Barbara Association of Realtors. She can be reached at 805-451-5484 or jennifer.berger@compass.com.

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