HR: How are you seeing design trends influencing buyer decisions this season?
Lanna Parker: Design trends are influencing buyer decisions this season, with a focus on quality yet minimal materials, open-concept layouts, and multifunctional spaces. Buyers are prioritizing residences with natural light with open views and modern finishes, reflecting a desire for both style and functionality. Smart home technology is also a key selling point.
HR: If you could give one piece of advice to buyers entering the market right now, what would it be?
Lanna Parker: Start looking sooner than you want to buy so you are ready. The good listings move quick.
HR: What is one opportunity in today's market that people may be overlooking?
Lanna Parker: There are a handful of sellers/listing agents out there that are still pricing like its 2021.. I've seen Buyers get into contract on listings they thought they'd have no chance of getting. If you are a Buyer, I wouldn't be as hesitant or overthink submitting on certain properties. I've been seeing more deals get put together that have started pretty far off.
HR: What is motivating sellers to list right now?
Lanna Parker: I have a handful of Sellers that have held off listing their properties much longer than planned for various reasons – holding on to their low rate they locked in during the Covid era, working from home longer than planned, political climate, etc. I think Sellers are finally over the waiting game and are ready to make moves.
HR: Have pricing strategies shifted compared to this time last year?
Lanna Parker: Both 2025 and 2026 have shown us its it important to price accurately. Listings are sitting a bit longer this year, not only pricing but marketing has become a major focus again.
HR: Is inventory tightening or expanding in your market, and how is that impacting negotiations?
Lanna Parker: Tightening. It of course depends who you represent, buyers don't have many options to choose from which gives sellers an advantage. However we are a large second home market where buyers typically don't "need" to buy or they aren't on a tight timeline. So the negotiations typically stem from the buyer's motivation level when submitting on a listing.
HR: March often signals a shift in the market. What are you seeing right now in terms of buyer confidence and activity?
Lanna Parker: Buyer activity is starting to pick up. Typically March picks up for San Diego in general as we see a lot of buyers come in from the desert areas (Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Arizona) who want a second home to escape their summer heat.
