If you’ve been monitoring the L.A. market, you’ve probably noticed something strange: it’s a market with two personalities. Some homes are sitting quietly for 60 to 90 days, waiting for the right buyer to come along. Others are sparking bidding wars within days of hitting the MLS.
So what separates the “sits” from the “sells”? It often comes down to architectural character, location, and pricing strategy. But for buyers, what matters most is how you play your hand when the competition heats up.
Understand the Split Personality
First, recognize the current rhythm of this market. Not every home commands a feeding frenzy right now. Well-priced, architecturally significant, or uniquely located homes such as walk-street Venice, prime Ocean Park, or a Playa Vista corner lot facing the bluff still pull multiple offers. Meanwhile, homes that overshoot the market or lack differentiation can linger. Smart buyers know how to read which type they’re dealing with and tailor their offer accordingly.
Winning Strategies That Don’t Just Mean Paying More
Here’s the truth: price is just one piece of the puzzle. In today’s environment, sellers and their agents look at the whole offer package, and that’s where strategy matters.
Shorten contingencies wisely. Tighten your inspection, loan, and appraisal timelines, but only after you’ve done your homework. A well-prepared buyer can offer a 7- to 10-day inspection period instead of 17, signaling confidence without taking on unnecessary risk.
Get your lender in gear. Work with a lender known for speed and reliability, not just a low rate. A pre-underwritten file can make your offer almost as strong as cash, especially if you can close in 14 to 21 days.
What Not to Do
This is where experience matters. I’ve seen well-intentioned buyers make bold moves that backfire. A few things to avoid:
Waiving contingencies blindly. Unless you’re sitting on a cash pile and can afford to absorb surprises, don’t waive all contingencies just to look strong. That can turn into an expensive mistake if an inspection uncovers costly repairs.
Skipping due diligence. In the heat of competition, it’s easy to rush. Don’t. You still need to understand the property’s history, zoning, and potential red flags, especially in older beach-area homes.
Assuming every listing is a bidding war. Not all are. An experienced agent can spot the difference between a truly competitive home and one that’s been sitting because it’s overpriced.
The Bottom Line
In today’s Westside market, winning isn’t about luck. It’s about preparation, precision, and partnership. The right strategy can help you move quickly when it counts while still protecting your interests. Because in a city where some homes attract a crowd and others wait quietly for attention, your advantage lies in knowing which is which and how to play your cards accordingly.
If you’re thinking about buying on the Westside this fall, let’s talk strategy before you fall in love with that next Venice bungalow or Santa Monica Spanish.
