History Shows the Housing Market Always Recovers

KCM Crew • August 27, 2025
History Shows the Housing Market Always Recovers Simplifying The Market

Now that the market is slowing down, homeowners who haven’t sold at the price they were hoping for are increasingly pulling their homes off the market. According to the latest data from Realtor.com , the number of homeowners taking their homes off the market is up 38% since the start of this year and 48% since the same time last June. For every 100 new listings in June, about 21 homes were taken off the market.

And if you’ve made that same choice, you’re probably frustrated things didn’t go the way you wanted. It’s hard when you feel like the market isn’t working with you. But while slowdowns can be painful in the moment, history tells us they don’t last forever.

History Repeats Itself: Proof from the Past

This isn’t the first time the housing market has experienced a slowdown. Here are some other notable times when home sales dropped significantly:

  • 1980s: When mortgage rates climbed past 18% , buyers stopped cold. Sales crawled for years. But as soon as rates came down, sales surged back, and the market found its footing again.
  • 2008: The Great Financial Crisis was one of the toughest housing downturns in history. Sales and prices both dropped hard. Still, sales rebounded once the economy recovered.
  • 2020: During COVID, sales disappeared overnight, and many people had to put their plans on hold. Yet the recovery was faster than anyone expected, with a surge of buyers re-entering the market as soon as restrictions eased.

The lesson is clear: no matter the cause, the market always rebounds.

Today’s Situation: Where We Stand Now

Over the past few years, home sales have been sluggish. And one big reason why is affordability. Mortgage rates rose at a record-breaking pace in 2022, and home prices were climbing at the same time. That combination put buying out of reach for many people. And when demand slows, home sales do too.

The Outlook: Why Things Will Improve

But here’s the encouraging part. Forecasts show sales are expected to pick up again moving into 2026.

Last year, just about 4 million homes sold ( shown in gray in the graph below ). And this year is looking very similar ( shown in blue ). But the average of the latest forecasts from Fannie Mae , the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) show the experts believe there will be around 4.6 million home sales in 2026 ( shown in green ).

And a big reason behind that projection is the expectation that mortgage rates will come down a bit, making it easier for more buyers to jump back in.

a graph of sales That means what’s happening now is part of a cycle we’ve seen before. Every slowdown in the past has eventually given way to more activity, and this one will too.

Just like the 1980s, 2008, and 2020, today’s dip in home sales is temporary.

What That Means for You

If you’ve paused your moving plans, you did what you thought was right. Your frustration is valid. But it’s also important to remember the bigger picture. Housing slowdowns don’t last forever.

That’s where your local real estate agent comes in. Their job is to keep a close eye on the market for you. When the first signs of a rebound appear, they’ll help you spot the shift early so you can relist with confidence.

Bottom Line

If today’s housing market feels stuck, remember it’s never stayed down for good. Slowdowns end, activity returns, and people get moving again. So, connect with a local real estate agent, because when the next wave of buyers shows up, you won’t want to miss it.

As activity picks up again, will you be ready to put your house back on the market, or do you need to move sooner?

By Dan May December 12, 2025
Whether you’re a long-time Angeleno or planning your next move, the Westside continues to stand out as one of the most desirable regions in Los Angeles. Anchored by Beverlywood, Castle Heights, Cheviot Hills, and nearby pockets, this area offers a rare combination of convenience, community, and long-term value that today’s buyers are actively seeking. Here’s a closer look at why so many people are rediscovering these neighborhoods. ________________________________________ The Rise of “15-Minute LA” Living More than ever, homeowners want to spend less time in the car and more time actually enjoying where they live. That’s why the idea of a “15-minute neighborhood” has become so attractive — places where daily essentials are just a short drive or walk away. Westside neighborhoods like Beverlywood, Castle Heights, and Cheviot Hills deliver precisely that. What makes these areas so practical for everyday life: Fast access to major corridors like the 10 and 405 freeways, Robertson, Pico, and Venice Blvd. Proximity to job hubs in Culver City’s growing tech and media district, Century City, and West LA. Walkability to essentials, including cafés, markets, parks, and small businesses. Access to well-regarded schools, which remains a key driver for long-term demand and stability. What used to feel like quiet, tucked-away residential pockets now function as some of the most strategically located neighborhoods in the city. ________________________________________ Local Spots That Give the Westside Its Character The Westside isn’t just about convenience — it’s about the lifestyle that comes with it. Residents love the everyday places that help each neighborhood feel like a community, not just a collection of streets. A few favorites that locals talk about: Blueys Market & Café (Pico) – Known for its Australian-style breakfast, fresh pastries, and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe. Palm Grove Social (Carthay Square) – A community café that doubles as a workspace and social hub for remote professionals. Cheviot Hills Recreation Center – Tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths, and open green space make it a go-to spot for families and active lifestyles. Platform LA & Helms Bakery District (Culver City) – Design-forward shops, showrooms, and destination dining that bring a modern edge to the historic Westside. These aren’t just “nice extras” — they’re part of what keeps these communities in demand, even as other parts of the city fluctuate. ________________________________________ The New Westside Buyer Profile Today’s buyers are more intentional and value-driven than they were a few years ago. They’re evaluating neighborhoods not only on price, but on how well the area supports the way they want to live. Common priorities we see from today’s Westside buyers: Move-in ready homes with functional layouts and updated systems. Outdoor living potential, whether that means a yard, patio, or space for entertaining. Energy-efficient upgrades, from newer windows and insulation to solar and EV-ready garages. Proximity to schools, parks, transit, and services, especially for households that want to reduce commute and car time. Westside neighborhoods align well with these priorities, which is why demand has remained strong and competitive—particularly in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, and Cheviot Hills. ________________________________________ Long-Term Value and Market Stability Even when the broader Los Angeles market experiences ups and downs, the Westside has a history of holding its value. These neighborhoods benefit from: Consistently low inventory – There are only so many homes in these pockets, and people tend to stay for a long time. Steady appreciation over time, driven by location, schools, and lifestyle appeal. Deep community roots, with many residents invested in maintaining the character, safety, and livability of their blocks. Homes here are often purchased for the lifestyle — but kept for decades because of the balance they offer between convenience, comfort, and long-term equity. ________________________________________ Why Work with the Dan May Real Estate Team? Buying or selling on the Westside is about more than just price per square foot. It’s about understanding micro-neighborhoods, school boundaries, local traffic patterns, and where buyers are focusing their attention right now. The Dan May Real Estate Team brings: Hyper-local experience in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, Cheviot Hills, and surrounding areas. Strategic pricing and preparation tailored to what Westside buyers are looking for today. Hands-on guidance through every step of the process, from prepping your home to negotiating the best possible terms. ________________________________________ Thinking About Your Next Move on the Westside? Whether you’re considering selling in the next year or just curious about what your home might be worth in the current market, we’re here to help you make informed decisions. Let’s talk about timing, strategy, and what’s possible for you in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, Cheviot Hills, or anywhere on the Westside.
By Dan May December 2, 2025
Whether you're a longtime resident or considering making a move to the Westside, Beverlywood, Castle Heights, and their surrounding neighborhoods offer a vibrant mix of charm, convenience, and community. Here's a closer look at what makes these areas stand out. 🏡 Beverlywood: A Hidden Gem with Timeless Appeal Beverlywood is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, traditional architecture, and strong sense of community. Local favorites include: • Circle Park: A private green space exclusive to residents — a unique perk that adds to the area’s charm. • Beverlywood Bakery: An institution for over 70 years, serving fresh pastries and Jewish deli classics. • Proximity to Pico-Robertson's vibrant shopping and dining gives Beverlywood walkable appeal, yet it retains a tucked-away feel. 🏙️ Castle Heights: Small-Town Feel with Big City Access Castle Heights blends old LA character with an affordable entry into the Westside market. Why locals love it: • Cheviot Hills Park & Recreation Center: Great for sports, playgrounds, and family events. • Castle Heights Elementary School: Highly regarded and a major draw for families. • Walkability to Metro's Expo Line offers easy commutes to Downtown LA or Santa Monica. 🌆 Nearby Neighborhood Highlights Cheviot Hills : Offers luxury homes, golf course views, and a peaceful vibe just minutes from the city. Crestview & La Cienega Heights: These up-and-coming pockets are gaining popularity for their central location, charming bungalows, and growing dining scene. Faircrest Heights & Reynier Village: Known for their architectural variety and strong community associations, they offer an appealing alternative to more high-profile areas. ________________________________________ Why the Dan May Real Estate Team? With deep roots in these communities, we don’t just sell homes — we help clients find their place in neighborhoods we know and love. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring, we’re here with insight, strategy, and local expertise. Thinking of making a move? Let’s talk about what’s possible in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, or anywhere on the Westside. Dan May Dan May Real Estate Team REALTOR®, Broker Associate Mobile: (310) 739-8647 dan@danmayrealestateteam.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-may-a161a55/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danmayrealestateteam/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanMayRealEstate
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