The Inland Empire real estate market is heating up again this spring! As we enter May 2025, both home buyers and sellers are seeing new opportunities emerge across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Whether you’re planning to buy a home in Inland Empire, sell your property, or invest in real estate, this monthly update is your ultimate guide to navigating this dynamic market.
🔥 Inland Empire Real Estate at a Glance – May 2025
The Inland Empire continues to outperform many neighboring regions in Southern California due to its affordability, growing infrastructure, and strong demand from buyers relocating from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
Here are some quick stats for May 2025:
| 📊 Market Metric | 📍 Inland Empire Region |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $557,000 (up 3.1% YoY) |
| Average Days on Market | 24 Days |
| Inventory Supply | 2.3 Months (still a seller’s market) |
| Price per Sq. Ft. | $331 |
📈 Home Prices Are Climbing But Still Affordable (Compared to Coastal CA)
While the median home price in Inland Empire rose modestly this month, it still remains significantly more affordable than coastal areas like Orange County ($972,000) or San Diego ($880,000+). This price gap is fueling the continued migration of buyers inland especially first-time buyers, young families, and remote workers.
In hotspots like Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Lake Elsinore, and Rancho Cucamonga, we’re seeing price increases driven by low inventory and high demand. New construction communities are also reporting fast sales, especially those offering incentives like closing cost credits or rate buydowns.
🏘️ What’s Selling Fast? These Homes Are in High Demand
Certain property types are flying off the market. Here’s what’s hot in May 2025:
- Single-family homes with 3–4 bedrooms and a yard
- Homes with fully paid-off solar panels or energy-efficient features
- Properties with ADUs or potential for rental income
- Turnkey homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms
- Homes near top-rated schools in Eastvale, Corona, and Redlands
If you’re a homeowner thinking of selling your Inland Empire home, now is a great time to take advantage of low inventory and high buyer activity.
💰 Is It Still a Seller’s Market in the Inland Empire?
Yes, but it’s not as frenzied as the post-COVID market we saw in 2021–2022.
Today’s buyers are more cautious due to interest rates hovering in the mid-6% range, but the limited inventory is keeping home prices stable and competitive in most cities.
That said, homes priced right and staged well are still getting multiple offers especially in commuter-friendly cities like Ontario, Fontana, Chino, Beaumont, and Riverside.
🧭 Advice for Buyers – May 2025
If you’re planning to buy a home in Inland Empire this spring, here’s how to position yourself for success:
✅ Get pre-approved with a local lender, sellers take your offer more seriously.
✅ Work with a knowledgeable local Realtor who knows neighborhoods, school districts, and off-market deals.
✅ Focus on value, don’t chase the prettiest house; look for potential and location.
✅ Ask about rate buydown options from the seller or builder.
✅ Don’t wait too long.
Top Inland Empire cities for buyers in May 2025: Hemet, Perris, San Jacinto, Victorville, and Apple Valley where you can still find homes under $500,000.
🏡 Advice for Sellers – List Smart in Today’s Market
Thinking of selling your home in Riverside or San Bernardino County? Here’s how to maximize your equity:
💡 Price it right the market is strong, but buyers are rate-sensitive.
💡 Stage your home clean, declutter, and add curb appeal.
💡 Offer buyer incentives like closing cost help or a home warranty.
💡 Partner with a top-producing local agent who knows how to market your home online and offline.
Pro tip: Homes that are clean, move-in ready, and professionally marketed are getting offers within 7–10 days of listing.
🛠️ New Construction Trends in Inland Empire
Builders are busy again especially in Menifee, Winchester, Wildomar, and Eastvale. With demand for housing up and resale inventory low, new construction homes in Inland Empire are becoming more popular.
Builders are offering:
- Up to $20,000 in incentives toward closing costs or rate buydowns
- Flexible floorplans with multi-gen suites or ADUs
- Energy-efficient features and EV-ready garages
- Quick move-in homes for summer 2025 buyers
If you’re considering new construction, bring your own Realtor to ensure you’re represented and don’t miss out on builder incentives.
📍 Top Inland Empire Communities to Watch
Here are a few of the hottest neighborhoods in the Inland Empire in May 2025:
- Menifee Lakes (Menifee) – Lakeside charm, low taxes, and solar homes
- Canyon Hills (Lake Elsinore) – Great amenities, parks, and family-friendly
- South Temecula – Award-winning schools and wine country views
- Ontario Ranch – Master-planned community with tech-forward homes
- Beaumont’s Sundance & Olivewood – Beautiful new builds, parks, and trails
🌟 Final Thoughts: Should You Buy or Sell in May 2025?
Whether you’re buying or selling, May 2025 is an active and opportunity-rich month in the Inland Empire real estate market.
📈 Buyers: Prices are still relatively affordable, and options are opening up with new construction and motivated sellers.
💰 Sellers: Take advantage of high demand, low inventory, and price appreciation by listing before the summer rush.
Ready to make your move? Let’s talk strategy and make this spring your winning season in the Inland Empire real estate market!
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