Why 2025 Works Better for First-Time Buyers in Sacramento

If you’ve been renting in Sacramento and wondering whether now is the right time to buy, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most favorable windows in recent years. While the market has been competitive for much of the past decade, shifting trends in rents, housing supply, and buyer leverage are creating opportunities that first-time buyers can and should take advantage of.

Rents Are Stabilizing (or Even Dropping)

After years of steady rent hikes, Sacramento is finally seeing rents level out, with some neighborhoods experiencing slight decreases. While that might sound like good news for renters, it’s also a signal: rental affordability tends to be cyclical, and long-term trends still point toward costs rising over time. Buying now means locking in a fixed mortgage payment that won’t climb year after year like rent can—while also building equity in your own property instead of your landlord’s.

For the past few years, low inventory has been one of the biggest challenges for buyers. In 2025, more sellers are entering the market, and competition is easing just enough to give buyers breathing room. That extra inventory means more options, less pressure to make rushed offers, and a better shot at finding a home that truly fits your needs.

Sacramento’s home prices are still strong, but the breakneck growth of recent years has cooled. Sellers are increasingly willing to negotiate—offering concessions, covering closing costs, or even agreeing to price reductions. For first-time buyers, this creates an environment where you can make a competitive offer without going tens of thousands over asking.

Building Long-Term Stability

The most compelling reason to buy now is the stability it brings. A fixed-rate mortgage protects you from rent spikes, and every payment you make builds your ownership stake. Over the years, that equity can become a powerful asset—whether you use it to fund renovations, pay for education, or simply enjoy the security of owning your own home.

Ready to stop renting and start building your future? Russell Enyart specializes in helping first-time buyers navigate the market with confidence. From securing pre-approval to finding the right home at the right price, Russell is your partner in making homeownership a reality.