Martinez, CA Housing Market

In this article, we explore the attractive real estate market of Martinez, CA. Our team analyzes the key trends and statistics to help you understand the fundamental factors that determine the housing market in this coastal city in Contra Costa. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, let us reveal some valuable insights into the Martinez housing market to help you get the best possible outcome.

the martinez courthouse building for martinez ca housing market
Renee White
Written by Renée White
  / July 9, 2024

Renée White is a top-producing real estate broker with over 20 years of experience and an annual average of 200 sales. Clients are drawn to Renée for her deep knowledge of the local Contra Costa market.

Table of content
    • Property prices in Martinez, CA are higher than the national average, but much more affordable than some other cities in Contra Costa.
    • There is a lot of demand for homes here, so expect competition if you are looking to buy.
    • The city has a lot of property price fluctuation, though usually close to $800,000.
    • Martinez has a waterfront character and suburban feel, with a luxurious Mediterranean climate.
    • You can work with us to find the best opportunities to buy or sell properties in Martinez.

    Martinez, CA Housing Market Overview

    The Martinez housing market is a competitive one, in which homes typically receive around 3 offers and currently sell in less than 2 weeks. There are plenty of opportunities to buy here, with 43 property transactions in June 2024 alone. Median sale prices are currently on a slight downward trend, but they tend to fluctuate around the same kind of level and are not among the most expensive in the county.

    You may find that Martinez is one of the more accessible cities in Contra Costa, as the property prices are much closer to the national average than in many other cities here. Martinez is a beautiful waterfront city that offers a suburban feel and stunning views. There is plenty of diversity throughout its demographics as well. If you plan to buy or sell, engage a reputable Contra Costa real estate agent to achieve your goals.

    a view of downtown martinez for martinez ca housing market

    Detailed Analysis Of Martinez, CA Real Estate

    The Martinez, CA housing market attracts a range of demographics, which can have an effect on sale-to-list prices. Let’s take a closer look at list prices versus the amount homes actually sell for. We will also highlight the key consideration of property taxes and look into affordable housing options in the city.

    Pricing And Sales

    Graph of the sale-to-list price ratio in Martinez, CA

    • List prices versus sale prices – Generally speaking, the sale-to-list prices in the Martinez real estate market slightly favor people who sell their homes. On average, properties quite consistently sell above the asking price – in the last 3 years, that average price has hovered around 102% of the asking price, though it has gone as high as 114% and as low as 97%. These figures are somewhat skewed by the economic challenges of 2022-23, but there is definitely potential for good outcomes for both buyers and sellers.Homes sold above list price
    • Homes sold above list price – As you might guess from the previous section, quite a high percentage of transactions result in properties being sold above the list price in Martinez, CA. At times, over 80% of properties sold for more than the list price, but this has also dropped as low as 26% in recent years, so analyzing current trends is important if you are looking to find the right time to get a good price. There is plenty of scope for both buyers and sellers to achieve what they want in this market. Buyers are advised to be well-versed in the best practices to buy a house if they want to succeed.
    • Homes with price drops – You will find that homes with price drops are proportional to the number that sell above the list price. In the Martinez housing market, when the number of homes selling above list price rises, the number selling below drops. Many homes sell very close to the list price, so it will take careful analysis to find opportunities to get a bargain on a new home.

    Tax And Financial Aspects

    One thing everyone in the Martinez real estate market must be mindful of is property tax. This is something virtually everyone must pay, and it goes towards things like:

    • School budgets
    • Policing
    • Local infrastructure developments

    The basic rate of property tax in California is 1% of a property’s assessed value, but it can fluctuate between counties and cities due to things like special assessments. In Contra Costa, the average property tax rate currently stands at 1.11% of your home’s assessed value, so you should budget carefully for this.

    It’s important to note that you could face a Martinez, CA tax lien if you are unable to keep up with property taxes. This will compel you to pay your debt and may lead to further financial penalties if you don’t keep up.

    Section 8 And Affordable Housing

    If affordable housing options in Martinez, CA are of interest to you, the Section 8 housing list should be your first port of call. Martinez is a relatively affordable housing market for the East Bay area, so there may be more opportunities for people on lower incomes than somewhere like Lafayette. Nevertheless, Section 8 is there to subsidize rents for qualifying households.

    There is huge demand for Section 8 housing, so there are often long waiting lists for housing. We have found that the community in Martinez is very inclusive and supportive, and a number of property owners choose to rent their homes through Section 8. We can advise on eligibility to help you make a decision on applying for Section 8.

    Martinez, CA Housing Market Trends

    Graph of the median sale price in Martinez, CA

    • Median prices of homes for sale in Martinez, CA – At the time of writing, the median property sale price in the Martinez housing market is around $770,000. This is fairly consistent with historical sale prices, which generally fluctuate in the region of $700,000 to $900,000. There is volatility here, which means there can be good opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Prices are above the national average, but far below the house prices in many parts of Contra Costa, making Martinez relatively accessible.
    • Number of homes sold in Martinez, CA – We see quite a significant variation in market activity in Martinez, CA from one month to the next. We are currently on an upward trend, with 43 sales in June coinciding with the usual summer boom, but the number frequently drops below 20 in the winter months. It is important to keep an eye on this trend, as it may indicate the level of competition, particularly when analyzed alongside the sale-to-list price ratio. Martinez is usually a competitive market, so it is important to work with a reliable real estate agent as a buyer or a seller.
    • Median days on market – Homes in Martinez don’t usually stay on the market for long. Historically, they sell within 10 days in the summer months, and that number climbs to 20-30 days in winter. When the market is hot, homes fly off the market, but seasonal trends and wider economic factors can have an impact on this. Work with a trusted real estate agent for the best possible outcome.

    How Hot Is The Martinez, CA Real Estate?

    There is plenty of heat in the Martinez, CA real estate market. It is a popular city with a lot to offer for a wide range of demographics. Traditionally, house prices are robust, there are multiple offers on properties, and the time on the market is short. There is a lot of opportunity to sell a home fast in Martinez, but you will need to target the right type of buyers with your marketing. The market is buoyant at the moment and we can help you find the buyers to make your goals a reality in Martinez.

    a beautiful martinez home for martinez ca housing market

    Martinez, CA Migration & Relocation Trends

    Map of Martinez inbound & outbound migration trends
    Across the wider USA, around 3% of homebuyers looked at Martinez, CA as a possible destination from outside metros. The vast majority of buyers who already live in Martinez look to remain in the city but relocate to a different neighborhood. Buyers from outside metros mostly came from Honolulu, New York City, Santa Barbara, and Pensacola according to recent statistics. People leaving Martinez primarily went to Sacramento, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

    These statistics suggest that the Martinez, CA housing market is an attractive one for people from all around the country. Meanwhile, Californians tend to stay within the state, so many who sell in Martinez either stay in the city or move to another nearby metro for a lifestyle change. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, we are here to help.

    Popular Neighborhoods In Martinez, CA

    Martinez, California’s housing market is diverse and bustling, with various distinct neighborhoods that define the character of the city. Here are some popular areas among our past clients:

    • Downtown Martinez: An area with historic charm that offers revitalized seafronts, cafes, and beautiful views for buyers who want a vibrant, walkable community.
    • Virginia Hills: This neighborhood offers suburban tranquility and spacious homes, as well as scenic parks and top-rated schools.
    • Morello Park: Enjoy this family-friendly neighborhood with its well-maintained properties, outstanding schools, and good access to shopping/dining options.
    • Reliez Valley: An upscale area with expansive lots, luxurious homes, and stunning hillside views. This is perfect for anyone who seeks privacy and elegance.

    Assess your budget for buying a home in Martinez to determine which neighborhoods are available to you. It is also important to assess the character of different areas to find the right match for your desired lifestyle.

    Amenities Near Martinez, CA

    There are various attractions and amenities in Martinez, CA that contribute to the high quality of life there. This attracts buyers to the housing market, so let’s look at some of the key amenities:

    • Martinez Marina: A scenic waterfront with boat docks, fishing spots, and walking trails with picturesque views.
    • John Muir National Historic Site: An iconic landmark with guided tours, gardens, and hiking trails dedicated to naturalist John Muir.
    • Martinez Farmers Market: A vibrant market with fresh produce, local crafts, and community events.
    • Briones Regional Park: An expansive park where you can hike, bike, or picnic for a luscious taste of outdoor recreation amid breathtaking views.

    These amenities are a big part of the overall appeal of the Martinez real estate market. Overall, it is a family-friendly waterfront community in the heart of the East Bay with a lot to offer.

    Is It The Right Time To Buy Your Dream Home In Martinez, CA?

    If you hope to enter the Martinez, CA housing market, you need to analyze various factors to get an accurate picture of whether the time is right to make your move. This is a market that tends to follow seasonal trends, so many people prefer to act in spring and summer. The volatile pricing suggests that you must do your due diligence to get the right outcomes as a buyer. Pay particular attention to the latest statistics in:

    • Market demand
    • Mortgage interest rates
    • Pricing trends
    • Your financial health

    These will be the key factors in determining your readiness to buy, and we can assist.

    Should You Buy Or Rent A Property In Martinez, CA?

    The rental market in Martinez is a fairly attractive one for the East Bay area. Average rent for an apartment currently stands at $2,225 per month, depending on various factors. While this is relatively affordable, it is still an ongoing expense that doesn’t really benefit the tenant long-term.

    Renting may be a good choice to begin with in order to get a taste of the city, or if you are only staying temporarily. But we recommend buying if you can, as this can enable you to benefit from appreciation and your costs will be an investment in your own future.

    The Role Of Climate And Its Impact On The Martinez, CA Housing Market

    One attractive feature of the Martinez, CA housing market is the Mediterranean-style climate. It is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures frequently enter the 80-90 Fahrenheit range, while in winter you get milder temperatures of 40-60.

    There is a risk of wildfires due to the warm, dry conditions in summer. There are also risks relating to both earthquakes and flooding, which can highlight the need for comprehensive home insurance to ensure you are covered against the worst.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How Hot Is The Martinez, CA Real Estate?

    There is a lot of competition for properties in Martinez, CA, with multiple buyers and short times on the market. As such, it is considered a hot real estate market.

    Amenities Near Martinez, CA

    Martinez is a waterfront city with plenty of historic charm and recreational opportunities. It is also surrounded by beautiful scenery and has a suburban, family-friendly character that attracts diverse demographics.

    Should You Buy Or Rent A Property In Martinez, CA?

    We always recommend buying over renting in the Martinez, CA housing market as it is an investment in your future. However, there can be benefits to renting in some circumstances.

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