From Santa Fe to Kona… and straight into May
Happy Monday,
The past two weeks have been a bit of a whirlwind… in the very best and most meaningful way.
I spent time in Santa Fe and Corrales, New Mexico—being with family, honoring and remembering. From there, I had the opportunity to step away briefly to Kona with a dear friend—resting, reflecting, and even previewing a few condo possibilities for her along the way.
I was home for all of about 12 hours before jumping right back into life here in the Bay Area… which included a ferry ride over to a Giants game. A great game, a big win, and a smooth ride in the new ferry - Zalophus - back across the water to close out the evening. (Zalophus is the scientific name for California sea lions...iykyk!)
Sunday brought me right back into what I love—meeting with a new seller (a very cute single-story in Vallejo!) and working through the details on another upcoming listing.
Those few days away were a gift—especially after experiencing two meaningful losses in such a short time. It felt like a moment to breathe… and now, here we are, stepping into May.
All I can say is, hold onto your hats, May is jam packed with activities! The first weekend alone will keep you busy, if busy is what you want to be:
• May 2 @ 10am – May 3 @ 5pm: Benicia Arsenal Artists Open Studios
• Benicia Fermentory Pickles Workshop (12–1pm)
• Kyle Hyland Foundation Super 60’s/70’s Celebration (6–10pm)
• Lucha Libro at the Library (6:30pm)
• May 3 @ 3–4:30pm: Benicia Chamber Players at the Community Congregational Church
• Benicia Friendship Club Fashion Fundraiser (1–4pm at the Vet’s Hall)
…and that’s just the first few days. The calendar for Benicia in May is SO much, I’ll share more next week!
On the real estate front…
As we move solidly into the second quarter—and what are traditionally some of the most active months of the year—the market here in Benicia continues to show a steady, holding pattern.
Current Inventory:
• 37 Single-Family Homes | $586,000 – $1,799,000
• 14 Condos | $280,000 – $995,000
• 4 Lots
• 7 Commercial Listings
• 4 Income Properties
What’s particularly telling is the increase in available listings—signaling a modest expansion in supply as we move into the most active part of the market cycle.
Year-to-Date (SFH) Snapshot:
January
7 sales | Median $870,000
95% of list price | 56 days on market
February
11 sales | Median $892,500
99% of list price | 59 days on market
March
14 sales | Median $755,000
102% of list price | 31 days on market
April (to date)
15 sales | Median $935,000
99% of list price | 23 days on market
What stands out most is the consistency. While prices have adjusted month to month, the overall rhythm of the market has remained steady—with a noticeable improvement in days on market and continued buyer engagement as we move deeper into the spring season. With the increase in supply of homes available for buyers today, it will be interesting to watch pricing as we move to the summer market.
If you’re considering a move—whether here in Benicia or beyond—I’m always happy to talk through your options. And for those of you who may be dreaming a bit further afield… my time in Kona introduced me to some truly excellent agents there. If owning a piece of island life has ever crossed your mind, it’d be fun to connect you.
Wishing you a fabulous start to your week—and a wonderful beginning to May - already!
Yours,
Toni
