Every March, we set our clocks forward, gaining an extra hour of daylight in the evening. While this time change might mean a groggy morning or two, it also has a surprising effect on the real estate market—especially in beautiful Sonoma County. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, the shift in daylight can play a bigger role in your real estate experience than you might think.
More Daylight, More Showings
One of the biggest benefits of daylight saving time is the extended evening light. With more daylight after work hours, potential buyers have more time to tour homes during the week. Instead of cramming showings into lunch breaks or waiting for the weekend, buyers can take their time visiting properties after work. For sellers, this means more opportunities for your home to be seen—and potentially more offers.
Curb Appeal Gets a Boost
Longer days also mean better natural lighting for your home’s exterior. A well-lit home during twilight hours can feel warm and inviting, making it more attractive to potential buyers. In Sonoma County, where vineyards, rolling hills, and stunning landscapes are key selling points, this extra light allows properties to truly shine. Sellers should take advantage by ensuring their landscaping is in top shape and their outdoor lighting enhances curb appeal.
More Market Activity
Historically, real estate activity picks up after the time change. Buyers who may have been hesitant in winter suddenly feel energized to start house hunting. Longer days also mean an earlier start to the spring buying season, which is already one of the busiest times for real estate here in Sonoma County. If you’re planning to sell, listing your home right after the time change can help you capture this increased demand before competition peaks.
Increased Motivation for Buyers
The psychological effect of longer days is real—people feel more productive, active, and ready for change. This seasonal shift can be the extra push buyers need to start making offers. If you’ve been on the fence about selling, now is the time to prepare your home for market while buyers are feeling motivated.
Tips for Sellers: Make the Most of Spring Forward
Optimize Outdoor Spaces: As daylight extends, buyers will spend more time evaluating yards, patios, and gardens. Make sure these spaces are clean and well-maintained.
Enhance Lighting: Ensure your home has plenty of warm, inviting lighting for evening showings, both inside and out.
List Strategically: The first few weeks after the time change can be a sweet spot for listing your home before competition heats up.
Tips for Buyers: Take Advantage of Longer Days
Schedule Weekday Showings: Use the extra daylight to tour homes after work instead of rushing through weekend appointments.
Explore Neighborhoods in the Evening: This gives you a sense of the area’s ambiance, traffic, and overall feel during peak home-buying hours.
Act Quickly: More buyers in the market mean more competition. If you find a home you love, be ready to make a strong offer.
