Why Savvy San Diego Luxury Buyers Are Making Their Move in 2026

If you’ve been watching the San Diego real estate market from a distance—especially in the luxury and single‑family home space—now may be the moment to take a closer look.

Over the past 30 days, we’ve seen a noticeable shift. Homes that had been sitting on the market for months are suddenly moving into escrow. This isn’t a return to frenzy—it’s a recalibration. And for discerning buyers, recalibration creates opportunity.

A Market Shift That Favors Buyers

The current San Diego housing market is offering something we haven’t seen in a while: leverage. Fewer buyers mean less competition, fewer bidding wars, and more room for thoughtful negotiation. Instead of rushing decisions, buyers can evaluate properties strategically and secure homes that truly align with their lifestyle and long‑term goals.

For luxury buyers in particular, this environment allows for value‑driven decisions rather than emotionally driven ones.

The Numbers Tell a Compelling Story

Let’s look at how affordability has quietly improved year over year:

San Diego Single‑Family Home Averages

• January 2025
  • Average Home Price: $1.38M
  • 20% Down Payment: ~$276,000
  • Approx. 30‑Year Fixed Rate: 7%
  • Monthly Principal & Interest: ~$7,400

• January 2026
  • Average Home Price: $1.29M
  • 20% Down Payment: ~$258,000
  • Approx. 30‑Year Fixed Rate: 6.2%
  • Monthly Principal & Interest: ~$6,300

That’s a down payment savings of roughly $18,000.

That’s a monthly savings of roughly $1,100—or more than $13,000 per year—for essentially the same caliber of home.

For high‑net‑worth buyers, this isn’t just about affordability. It’s about efficient capital deployment, improved cash flow, and securing real assets at a more favorable entry point.

Buying Ahead of the Curve

Forecasts for 2026 suggest modest price appreciation, not explosive growth. That’s exactly why buying before momentum builds can be a smart play. When the broader buyer pool re‑enters the market, competition will increase—and so will prices.

By acting now, you’re positioning yourself ahead of that curve:

• Locking in lower pricing
• Taking advantage of reduced interest rates
• Avoiding bidding wars
• Gaining negotiating power on terms, repairs, and concessions

This is the kind of environment experienced buyers wait for.

Luxury Homes Are Still Selling—Just More Intentionally

Make no mistake: quality homes in prime San Diego neighborhoods are still moving. The difference today is that transactions are driven by strategy rather than urgency. Well‑priced, well‑presented homes are attracting serious buyers who understand long‑term value.

Whether you’re looking for a coastal estate, a view property, or a refined family residence, this market rewards preparation and local expertise.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Move

If you’ve been waiting for the right combination of price, rate, and opportunity—this may be it. I spend my days analyzing the San Diego market and uncovering opportunities that others overlook.

And honestly, I’ve got nothing better to do than help you find your next home.

Let’s connect and see how today’s market can work in your favor—before the window narrows.