When people ask, "How's the market?" they usually expect a one-liner. But if you’ve been paying attention to what’s happening here in Redding and across Shasta County, you know the answer takes more than a shrug and a smile. The numbers may not be screaming headlines, but they’re telling a story, and we’re listening.
So let’s walk through it. No fluff, no market hype, just the truth about what we’re seeing, and what it actually means for you, whether you’re thinking of buying, selling, or simply staying put for now.
The Market Has Shifted, But It Hasn’t Slipped
We’ve seen changes. But this isn’t a crash, a crisis, or anything close. What we’re in is more of a recalibration. The kind that naturally follows years of record-breaking activity and unpredictable interest rates.
Here’s what we’re really seeing:
Homes Are Still Selling, Just Not as Fast
In 2025, we'll have fewer homes sold than this time last year. It’s not dramatic, but the slowdown is noticeable. Sales are down about 8.1% year to date. Still, we’re not seeing a standstill. People are buying, they’re just a little more cautious about it.
Buyers are watching the headlines, weighing their options, and often waiting longer before making a move. Political shifts, high interest rates, and even tariff announcements are making folks a bit more careful. And honestly? That’s fair.
Inventory Is Up (and That Changes the Game)
More homes are hitting the market, and more are sitting longer. That means buyers have more options, and sellers have to work a bit harder to stand out. Active listings have jumped 26% year-over-year.
What does this mean in real life? It means you’re not the only home on the block anymore. The competition is real, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It just means your listing needs to be dialed in: smart pricing, strong photos, and a great first impression.
Home Values? Surprisingly Steady
Here’s the stat that makes people raise their eyebrows: prices are holding firm. Despite everything, the median home price in Shasta County hasn’t dipped. It’s up slightly year over year. That tells us something important: buyers may be pickier, but they’re still willing to pay when a home meets the mark.
So while your house might take a little longer to sell, the value is still there. But remember, pricing right from the start is key, today’s buyer won’t bite on an overpriced listing.
Interest Rates Are High (and That’s Affecting Everyone)
Rates are hovering in the high 6% range, and no one loves that. For buyers, it means higher monthly payments. For sellers, it means fewer buyers in the pool.
To help offset the sting, we’re seeing more permanent and temporary rate buydown options. These help make payments more manageable in the short term, which is especially helpful for first-time buyers or anyone on the fence.
So, What Now?
Let’s break it down by where you might be coming from.
If You’re Buying
Good news: you finally have some breathing room. More inventory means less pressure to make snap decisions and more space to negotiate. You can take the time to be selective, but don’t wait too long when a great home checks all your boxes.
Just know this: when a home is priced well, looks great, and sits in a solid location, it still moves quickly. We’re seeing those homes get showings fast and, in some cases, even spark multiple offers. So get preapproved, define your must-haves, and be ready when the right home comes along.
If You’re Selling
This is not the moment to test the waters or see how high you can price your home. Today’s buyers are informed and selective, and they’re not going to overpay. But if your home is clean, well-staged, and priced right? It will sell.
The big difference now is that you need to put a little more work in up front. Prep matters. Professional marketing matters. And working with someone who actually knows the Redding market? That might matter most of all.
What About the Rest of the Year?
Nobody has a crystal ball, but we’re keeping a close eye on what the experts are forecasting. The general consensus? We’re not in for a dramatic shift, just a slow, steady ride.
Home prices may grow slightly, maybe 4% depending on the source. Others think they could dip by a percentage point or so. But no one’s predicting anything wild. And in markets like ours, things tend to stay relatively stable compared to big metro areas.
As for sales activity, a slow recovery is expected. Nothing flashy, but nothing scary either. Just a market that’s finding its balance.
Interest rates? Most projections have them staying right where they are through the end of 2025, maybe dipping into the low 6s by next year. If they do start to shift downward, we might see a little more buyer activity pick up again.
Final Takeaway From the Ground
After eight years of working with buyers and sellers across Redding, I can tell you this: the local market always tells a more accurate story than the national headlines. And right now, Redding is holding steady, even as it adjusts.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling this year, it all comes down to strategy, timing, and who you have in your corner.
That’s where The Barrett Team comes in. We’re here to make this process clear, doable, and as low-stress as possible. Whether you’re ready to make a move or just need to talk through your options, we’re happy to help.
Let’s have that conversation when you’re ready. Until then, keep an eye on the numbers, and remember that sometimes, the quiet markets are the ones worth paying attention to.
