When Is the Right Time to Move in Westlake Village and the Conejo Valley?

When Is the Perfect Time to Move in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks?

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of waiting for the "perfect" moment to make your move—especially in today’s housing market. Maybe you're hoping mortgage rates will drop or that home prices will adjust. But here’s the reality: trying to time the real estate market rarely works. Instead, it’s about finding the right time for you—based on your needs, goals, and financial readiness.

There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Market

No matter when you buy or sell, there will always be trade-offs. That’s just the nature of real estate. If you're not convinced, let’s look at the Conejo Valley market over the past five years.

• During the low-interest rate boom, buyers rushed to lock in historically low mortgage rates. The downside? Homes in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks were selling in fierce bidding wars, often well above the asking price. The competition was intense, and buyers had to make aggressive offers just to secure a home.
• Now, with higher rates and higher prices, it may feel like a tougher market for buyers. But there's a silver lining: inventory is higher than it has been in years, giving buyers more options and fewer bidding wars. Sellers also have an opportunity to capitalize on strong home values in sought-after communities like North Ranch, Lake Sherwood, and Westlake Island.

The key takeaway? There’s always an opportunity—it’s just a matter of recognizing it.

Why Waiting Might Cost You More

Some homeowners delay moving in the hopes that mortgage rates will drop or that home prices will shift in their favor. But waiting could mean:

• Higher mortgage rates: No one can predict future rate changes with certainty. If rates increase, you could end up paying more in the long run.
• Rising home prices in desirable areas: Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, and Agoura Hills remain highly sought-after, meaning home values will likely continue appreciating over time.
• Missed lifestyle opportunities: Whether you’re downsizing, relocating for work, or moving closer to family, delaying your move could impact your quality of life.

Making the Most of Today’s Market

If you have a reason to move and you can afford to do so, the smartest strategy is to lean into market trends that work in your favor. That’s where expert local guidance comes in. As Bankrate states:

“The complexities of the current conditions mean that, now more than ever, it’s smart to lean on the guidance of an experienced local real estate agent. If you want to enter the housing market in 2025, whether as a buyer or a seller, let a pro lead the way for you.”

A knowledgeable real estate professional—someone deeply familiar with the nuances of the Conejo Valley market—can help you:

• Explore creative solutions, such as considering different property types (condos in Westlake Village, townhomes in Newbury Park, or single-family homes in North Ranch)
• Navigate financing options with the help of a trusted local lender
• Strategize your move based on market trends, maximizing your home sale or finding the right purchase opportunity

The Bottom Line

There’s no "perfect" time to move—only the right time for you. Every real estate market has its pros and cons, but the key is knowing how to take advantage of the factors working in your favor. If you’re thinking about moving in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, or anywhere in the Conejo Valley, let’s connect. I’ll help you navigate the market with expert advice, local knowledge, and a strategy tailored to your needs.

Thinking of making a move? Let’s chat about your options and create a game plan that makes sense for you.