Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Home in Westside LA?

Buying a home in Los Angeles comes with big questions, especially in a market that seems to shift faster than your Waze route. The truth? Whether now is a good time to buy depends less on market timing and more on your long-term goals — but LA’s current landscape actually offers more opportunities than most people think.

Over the past year, we’ve seen a mix of steady demand, limited inventory, and interest rates hovering in the mid-range. While this combo sounds intimidating, it has also created more breathing room for buyers. Homes are sitting slightly longer, competition has eased in certain price brackets, and not every property is seeing over-asking offers like we saw in 2020–2022.

If you’re planning to stay put for at least five years, buying now can absolutely make sense. LA real estate historically appreciates faster than national averages, especially across the Westside — Santa Monica, Brentwood, Venice, Mar Vista — all of which continue to see strong price-per-square-foot growth.

A quick note about the Palisades:

The early-2025 wildfires affected parts of the Pacific Palisades and other hillside interface areas. These communities remain incredibly desirable, but buyers should now factor in insurance considerations, fire-hardening improvements, emergency access, and the overall resiliency of specific micro-pockets. With the right due diligence, the long-term value is still strong … but it’s important to buy smart.

Buyers today have more negotiation ability, more choices, and the ability to lock in a rate and refinance later if/when rates drop. Waiting for a “perfect market” is usually how buyers end up chasing prices upward.

The key? Partner with an agent who knows micro-pockets, understands where value is hiding, and can help you structure a competitive but smart offer. (Hi — that’s me 😉)