As we enter the final stretch of the year, the Greater Palm Springs real estate market continues to show resilience and steady movement, despite the time of year when many people assume the market slows down. November’s numbers paint a clear picture: motivated buyers are active, sellers continue to achieve strong results, and the seasonal surge is building momentum right on schedule.

Here’s what buyers and sellers should focus on as we move through December and into January, supported by the latest Coachella Valley data.

A Quick Look at November 2025 Market Highlights

The November Desert Market Update reported:

• 484 total homes sold across the valley

• $428,894,553 in total sold volume

• Average sold price: $886,145

• Average days on market (DOM): 68 days

• Sold-to-list ratio: 94.76% valley-wide

• Inventory: 3,453 active listings

City-by-city, we saw:

• La Quinta averaging $1.417M with strong activity (64 homes sold)

• Palm Springs holding steady at $931K average sold price

• Rancho Mirage closing at 95.13% of list price

• Indian Wells leading luxury again with $2.48M average

• Indio and Desert Hot Springs showing the strongest sold-to-list ratios, both above 95%

Across the board, well-priced homes sold close to asking, while DOM remained stable, showing continued buyer demand even as we head into the holiday season.

Recommendations for Buyers Going Into December & January

December and January are quiet on the surface, competitive behind the scenes. Here’s what buyers should know:

1. Take Advantage of Holiday Motivation

The buyers who stay active during the holidays often win. Fewer competing buyers means:

• More negotiation leverage

• Better access to homes without crowds

• Opportunities to secure homes before January’s seasonal influx

With 3,453 active listings, inventory is giving buyers more breathing room compared to peak-season crunch months.

2. Don’t Assume Homes Will Sit, They’re Still Selling Fast

While 68 DOM is the valley average, many desirable homes are moving far quicker.

High-demand cities like:

• Rancho Mirage (45 DOM)

• Indian Wells (57 DOM)

…are proving that buyers still act quickly for quality homes. If you find the right one, don’t wait—January competition is coming.

3. Pay Attention to Sold-to-List Ratios

A valley-wide 94.76% sold-to-list ratio means:

• Sellers are negotiating—but not by much

• Well-priced homes won’t discount heavily

For buyers, this confirms pricing stability. Don’t anticipate major price drops—but do look for:

• Homes with high DOM

• Properties that were re-listed or price-adjusted

• Sellers closing before year end (motivated)

These can present strategic opportunities.

4. Lock in before January Demand Rises

Season typically increases sharply mid-January through April.
More buyers → more competition → fewer concessions → stronger pricing.

Buying now positions you ahead of:

• Returning snowbirds

• Seasonal vacation home shoppers

• New-year relocation buyers

• High-net-worth luxury shoppers

5. Focus on Areas That Are Delivering Value

Cities with lower average prices but strong ratios include:

• Indio: $633,766 avg price, 95.79% ratio

• Desert Hot Springs: $418,396 avg price, 96.65% ratio

These markets are strong for:

• First-time buyers

• Rental or STR investors

• Buyers looking for appreciation potential

Recommendations for Sellers Going Into December & January

While many homeowners assume the holidays are slow, the data tells a different story. November showed that buyers are still out in force—and December–January offers real advantages for sellers.

1. Serious Buyers = Stronger Offers

Holiday buyers are typically motivated by:

• Job relocation

• Life changes

• 1031 exchange timing

• Desire to secure a winter home

• A goal to close before year end

This leads to quality showings and motivated offers.

2. Homes Are Closing Near Asking—If Priced Right

With a 94.76% sold-to-list ratio, sellers who price properly are achieving strong results.

Cities like:

• Coachella (96.02%)

• Desert Hot Springs (96.65%)

• Indio (95.79%)

…show that buyers are not demanding big discounts. Strategic pricing is essential.

3. Lower Seasonal Inventory Gives Your Listing an Edge

While inventory sits at 3,453 units, many homeowners pull their listings for the holidays.

That means:

• Less competition

• More eyes on your listing

• Better traction with serious buyers

• Stronger negotiating position

If your home is well-staged and well-presented, it can stand out immediately.

4. January Will Bring Even More Activity

January marks:

• Peak snowbird return

• Increased open house traffic

• Luxury market surge (Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert)

• Higher buyer pool overall

Listing in December allows your home to “pre-position” for maximum early-season exposure.

5. Optimize Your Market Debut

To capitalize on the December–January window:

• Ensure curb appeal stands out (winter lawns, lighting)

• Stage for warmth & seasonality (soft lighting, decluttering)

• Use high-end professional photography

• Price within 3–5% of the expected appraisal

• Be ready for showings (buyers touring during holiday trips)

With homes selling in 45–78 days depending on city, the right preparation can help you sell faster and for more.

Final Thoughts

The November 2025 numbers show a healthy, active, and balanced desert market. Whether you’re buying or selling, December and January offer strategic advantages, especially with motivated holiday buyers and early-season momentum picking up.

Smart timing, strategic pricing, and quick action are key to success in this market.

If you’re considering a move this season, reach out anytime, I'd love to help you navigate the opportunities.

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