Real Estate in 2025: A Shifting Market & New Opportunities

By Brie Murillo, Founder of American Stages Realty & Management, INC.

The real estate market is shifting, and with every shift comes new opportunity. Whether you're a homeowner, a renter, or someone looking to buy, the key is understanding how to move with the market instead of against it.

Why Some Homeowners Are Choosing to Rent Instead of Sell

Over the last few years, many homeowners locked in historically low interest rates. Now, with rates higher, selling a property might not make as much financial sense. Instead, some owners are turning their homes into rentals, and with today’s rental prices, that decision is paying off. Monthly rental income can be strong enough to cover the mortgage (and then some), especially in desirable areas.

This strategy works well for those looking to build long-term wealth through real estate while keeping a great loan in place.

Others Are Selling After a Year of Renting

Not everyone is built to be a landlord, and that’s okay! I’ve been working with clients who chose to rent their homes for a year or two, and are now ready to sell. Why now? Many are doing it to take advantage of the capital gains tax exemption, which allows homeowners to exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples) in gains when selling a primary residence, aas long as they lived in it for at least two of the last five years.

This window of opportunity is crucial, and timing the sale right can mean major savings.

Sellers Are Getting Creative Again

Here’s something we haven’t seen in years: sellers offering help with closing costs. In a market where buyers have become more cautious and affordability is top-of-mind, sellers are making moves to keep deals attractive. That might mean price adjustments, incentives, or flexibility we haven’t seen since the pre-pandemic market.

For buyers, this opens the door to more favorable terms. For sellers, it means getting ahead of competition by making your home more appealing.

Not Sure What to Do? That’s Normal.

Whether you’re thinking about renting, selling, buying, or a mix of the three, the best move is the one that aligns with your goals. The market isn’t one-size-fits-all, and no decision should be rushed.

Let’s talk it through, no pressure, no sales pitch. Just good, honest advice based on where you are right now.

Contact me today to start your pre-approval and turn your tax refund into homeownership.

Brie Camacho

Founder, American Stages Realty & Property Management

805-345-0677

Brie@americanstages.com

CA DRE #01948359 | NMLS ID: 2585046

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