I get asked this question all the time: What is the single best day of the year to list a Bay Area home for sale? Not the best month. Not the best season. The best day.
And I always say, if I had to pick one, it’s March 15th.
The reason has nothing to do with superstition and everything to do with the law of supply and demand. Every year, we start January 1 with the lowest inventory of the year. Listings slow down in Q4, many homes come off the market at year-end, and supply is tight. Then, beginning in mid-January, buyers come roaring back into the market faster than new inventory appears.
For a short window, typically peaking around mid-March, demand is high, but the full wave of spring listings hasn’t yet arrived. That imbalance is when sellers have the most leverage. More buyers competing over fewer homes means stronger offers, better terms, and less negotiating pressure. After mid-March into April, inventory continues to climb while the pace of new buyer demand levels off, and the balance gradually shifts.
That’s why March 15th often represents the most seller-friendly moment of the entire year to get your home Active on the MLS.
But here’s the key: you shouldn’t just decide on March 1 that you want to hit March 15 and expect to maximize the opportunity. You want to put your best foot forward, and packing, inspections, disclosures, positioning, cleaning, landscaping…these things take time.
If you want to capitalize on the strongest supply-and-demand window of the year, we need to start now. Reach out to me ASAP so we can position your home to take full advantage of it.
Sell As-Is. Sell Easy. Sell Smart!
From the Monterey Bay Wayback Machine
Seaside Holds Washington’s Birthday Parade in the Rain (February 22, 1958)
The city of Seaside celebrated George Washington’s birthday with a parade along Fremont Boulevard, continuing the tradition despite light rain showers throughout the morning. The event honored Washington, who would have been 226 years old on that date, reflecting the community’s respect for the first U.S. president. Residents gathered to watch the festivities, showing how national history and local traditions came together in a shared public celebration.
Salinas Approves Recreation Expansion for Returning Veterans (February 26, 1945)
Salinas City Council approved a plan to expand municipal recreation facilities to support returning World War II veterans reintegrating into community life. The centerpiece of this initiative was Sherwood Park, which the council planned to transform from a simple rodeo ground into a multi-use civic space. The project reflected a broader effort to provide recreation, connection, and support for veterans while strengthening community infrastructure for a growing postwar population.
Capitola Planners Review Mall Blueprints (February 26, 1970)
City planners in Capitola reviewed the initial blueprints for a proposed shopping center that would later become the Capitola Mall. At the time, the project represented a significant step toward modern retail development in the area, aiming to serve a growing population and changing consumer habits. The planning process marked the beginning of a transformation that would shape Capitola’s commercial landscape and provide a centralized shopping destination for the surrounding community.
This Week in Santa Cruz County
Applications Open for 128 Affordable Homes in Downtown Santa Cruz
Applications are now open for a new affordable housing development at 902 Pacific Ave. in downtown Santa Cruz, offering 128 apartments for low-income residents. The project, part of the Pacific Station redevelopment, includes a mix of studio to three-bedroom units designed for individuals and families earning below 60% of the area median income. Of the total units, 32 are reserved for extremely low-income households, and 21 are set aside for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The development also integrates community-focused features such as ground-floor retail, a computer lab, fitness classes, and an after-school program, alongside a rebuilt transit hub. Applications will be accepted until March 21, with options to apply online or in person. The project aims to expand housing access in a high-demand area while supporting vulnerable populations in Santa Cruz.
Legends: Live & Local with David J & Lol Tolhurst
Date: Friday, February 27
Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Hwy17 Studios, 831 Almar Avenue, Santa Cruz
An unforgettable evening brings together legends David J and Lol Tolhurst for a unique blend of live music and storytelling. The experience is elevated through special collaborations with local artists, creating moments that are both intimate and one of a kind. It’s a rare opportunity to witness creativity, history, and connection come alive on stage.
The Rite of Strings – One Night Only
Date: Friday, February 27
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: UCSC Music Center Recital Hall, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz
An intimate concert brings together accomplished musicians for a one-night-only celebration of string performance. Featuring a blend of guitar and violin, the program highlights artistry, collaboration, and the richness of live acoustic music. Audiences can enjoy a relaxed, open-seating experience that invites connection with both performers and sound.
UCSC Family Opera – Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”
Date: Sunday, March 01
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, & 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: UCSC Music Center Recital Hall, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz
A charming, family-friendly take on Mozart’s classic fairytale brings music and storytelling together in an engaging way. Featuring talented student performers and live piano accompaniment, it offers an enjoyable introduction to opera for all ages.
Lunch & Learn: Immersive Pinsa Workshop
Date: Friday, February 27
Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location: Immersion Learning Center, 1440 Multiversity 800 Bethany Drive, Scotts Valley
A hands-on culinary workshop invites participants to explore the art of Pinsa, a Roman-style pizza known for its light, flavorful crust. Guided by an expert chef, the experience blends history, nutrition, and interactive cooking in a fun and engaging way.
Time to talk to a REALTOR?
Senior Friendly Homes in Silicon Valley South
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