Blog > Southern California Homebuyer Cancellations Hit New High — What It Means for You

Southern California Homebuyer Cancellations Hit New High — What It Means for You

by Monique H. Ott-Beacham

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🚨 Southern California Homebuyer Cancellations Hit New High — What It Means for You

By the HOTT Homes Team | HOTTHomesSells.com

If you’ve been house hunting in Southern California lately, you’re not alone in feeling the pressure. According to a recent report from Redfin, homebuyer cancellations have surged to their highest rate since 2017, and SoCal markets are leading the trend.

At HOTTHomesSells.com, we’ve been keeping a close eye on the numbers — and what they mean for our buyers and sellers in the Inland Empire, Upland, Claremont, Rancho Cucamonga, and surrounding areas.

📊 By the Numbers: SoCal Home Sale Cancellations (January 2025)

Here's a snapshot of what Redfin reported:

Metro Area Jan 2025 Jan 2024
Riverside, CA 17.3% 5.5%
Los Angeles, CA 15.9% 13.2%
San Diego, CA 13.9% 12.9%
Sacramento, CA 13.9% 12.5%
Anaheim, CA 11.2% 11.5%
Oakland, CA 8.4% 9.1%
San Jose, CA 5.9% 5.1%
San Francisco, CA 4.2% 3.8%

That’s right — nearly 1 in 5 homebuyers in Riverside County canceled their contracts last month. That’s a dramatic jump from just a year ago and highlights a shift in buyer behavior across the board.

😰 What’s Causing the Wave of Cancellations?

There’s no single culprit, but several factors are contributing to this trend:

  • 📈 High mortgage rates making monthly payments less affordable

  • 💰 Elevated home prices causing buyers to hesitate

  • 🏭 Economic uncertainty, including layoffs and inflation concerns

  • 🏛️ Policy shifts, such as the new Buyer Broker Agreement

  • 🌐 Market volatility, leaving buyers feeling unsure about the timing

Despite these challenges, buyers and sellers in Southern California still have opportunities — especially when working with experienced, connected professionals.

🔍 What’s Missing from the Conversation?

Interestingly, Redfin’s report doesn’t mention how the new Buyer Representation Agreement is impacting these cancellations. At HOTT Homes Property Management and Real Estate, we’ve noticed this policy shift is leaving some buyers confused — and even causing them to pause mid-process.

We’re here to help clarify what these agreements mean for you, whether you’re actively touring homes or just starting your search.

💡 What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in Upland and Beyond

If you're buying a home in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, now is the time to stay informed and prepared:

  • ✅ Make sure you understand the buyer representation agreement

  • 📱 Work with a trusted local agent who can guide you through changing conditions

  • 💬 Don’t hesitate to ask questions — that’s what we’re here for

At HOTTHomesSells.com, we provide up-to-date market insights, property listings, and home tour tools to help you navigate the market with confidence.


Ready to Buy — or Just Want to Know Your Options?

Whether you’re looking to buy now or just exploring your options, HOTTHomesSells.com is your go-to resource for homes for sale in Upland, CA and the surrounding areas.

📍 Explore real-time listings
🗺️ Plan your next open house tour
🤝 Get matched with a local expert

➡️ Visit HOTTHomesSells.com to stay ahead of the market and make smart moves — even in uncertain times.


Your HOTT Homes Team
Passionate. Local. Connected.

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Monique H. Ott-Beacham

+1(619) 757-3109

Broker | License ID: DRE #01448692

Broker License ID: DRE #01448692

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