Realtor of the Year, 2020, Big bear lake
It's COOL up here at 7,000 ft...
(updated 3/6/2025)
Find Your Dream Home with *Bill Young*
Browse Properties
All Big Bear cabin listings are available on the popular internet sites (www.realtor.com, or www.zillow.com, etc). Those internet sites receive (almost hourly) input from a couple different Multiple Listing Services. Regardless of which MLS a Big Bear cabin was originally listed on, I can help you since I belong to both Multiple Listing Services.
The data represented in my charts and graphs are approximately correct. Keep in mind that the numbers used to generate my monthly graphics are taken at a “moment in time” and do change from hour to hour. If you are interested in the exact numbers, then please ask me.
April 2025 combined Sales numbers:
The graphic to the upper left was consolidated by Suzette Guyette from Fidelity National Title. Since Big Bear uses two different MLS systems, with differing parameters, the closest common denominator is the Title Company. the Big Bear MLS doesn't show transactions that are recorded outside of the MLS (quit claims, interfamily transfers, probate sale, sales by CRMLS, etc). And it takes a month or so for those "extra" transactions to be recorded into the public records. Eventually the Title companies see and report everything, but that means the numbers reported here are accurate but delayed by 2 months.. A phone call to me can give you the current sales thru BB MLS. Many thanks to Suzette for her continued support...
April brought some interesting shifts to the housing market, particularly in the two-bedroom home and three-bedroom cabin segments. While prices for two-bedroom homes saw a slight drop, the three-bedroom cabin market surged, driven largely by a wave of higher-priced listings that hit the market. This sudden uptick in premium cabins had a ripple effect, boosting overall prices in that category.
One of the most striking changes was the sharp increase in inventory. Across all price ranges, the number of homes and cabins available nearly doubled, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in months. With more properties competing for attention, sellers found themselves adjusting expectations, as 70% of all sales ultimately closed below the asking price.
That didn’t slow down mid-range cabin sales, though. This segment remained particularly active, with 40% of transactions being all-cash deals—suggesting that buyers in this price bracket came prepared and ready to close fast. Meanwhile, the luxury cabin market faced some challenges, with days on market (DOM) stretching to 135. Sellers in this tier had to be patient and strategic, often making price adjustments or offering incentives to lure buyers.
Despite all these fluctuations, overall sales volume remained stable compared to the previous month. This balance suggests that while buyers were negotiating harder and sellers had more competition, demand remained steady enough to keep transactions moving.
The evolving market dynamics present opportunities and challenges for both buyers and sellers. Buyers looking for a deal might find opportunities among two-bedroom homes or in the high-end cabin sector, where extended listing times could lead to price reductions. Meanwhile, sellers—especially those in the luxury market—may need to rethink pricing strategies to attract interest.
With May now underway, it’ll be interesting to see whether these patterns hold or shift further. The increased inventory could bring more competition, but if demand remains strong, it might just make for another busy month in real estate.
Sell Your Property
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Expert Advice
My team of real estate professionals are always ready to provide you with expert advice on buying, selling, or investing in properties. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Using a *local* big bear Agent
Expert Advice
Using a local realtor offers numerous advantages when buying or selling a property especially here in Big Bear. I possess a deep understanding of the specific market conditions in all Big Bear communities. I can provide valuable insights on neighborhoods, schools, amenities, and trends that out-of-town agents might not be aware of.
I have established LOCAL networks, allowing me to tap into resources and connections that will be beneficial in your real estate transaction. I have strong relationships with local lenders, inspectors, contractors, handymen, and other professionals, which can streamline the buying or selling process.
Furthermore, I am readily available for face-to-face meetings, property showings, and on-the-ground support. My knowledge of the local Big Bear market can be crucial in accurately pricing a property. I can also help you navigate complex zoning and regulatory issues that vary within Big Bear Lake, Big Bear City, Fawnskin, and Sugarloaf.
Most importantly, I am invested in our communities. I take pride in fostering positive relationships and maintaining my reputation, which can lead to a more personalized and trustworthy experience. By choosing me as your realtor, you are choosing an expert who can guide you through the intricacies of buying or selling, ensuring a smoother, more successful real estate transaction.
A "new way"...
🏡 Exciting News for New Big Bear Lake Real Estate Prospects!
I hope this message finds you well and enthusiastic about your real estate journey in beautiful Big Bear Lake. I'm thrilled to share some important updates that will enhance your property search experience and ensure that you find the perfect home that matches your preferences and needs. But, I am still eager to help you find a cabin using the "old school" approach of meeting face-to-face, and searching for the right property in my office on the big screen.
🔎 Introducing a Modern Approach: The world of real estate is evolving, and so am I. In order to provide you with the best possible service, I've transitioned to a more personalized and efficient approach. Instead of the traditional method of touring homes solely based on predetermined criteria, I'm embracing technology to empower you in your home search.
🏠 Your Search, Your Way: You now have the flexibility to explore the Big Bear Lake real estate market at your own pace. Simply visit www.realtor.com or www.zillow.com, two trusted platforms known for their extensive listings and user-friendly interfaces. There, you can explore a wide range of properties, filter by your desired specifications, and compile a list of homes that catch your eye.
✨ Tailored Viewing Experience: Once you've selected a handful of properties that pique your interest, reach out to me with your curated list. I'll then coordinate with you to schedule personalized viewing appointments for the properties you've selected. This approach ensures that your time is spent exploring properties that truly resonate with you.
🌟 Your Preferences Matter: I understand that every buyer is unique, and your preferences are paramount. Whether you're looking for a cozy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the $500k range or have specific architectural styles or amenities in mind, this new approach empowers you to discover properties that align with your vision.
📞 Stay Connected: As always, I'm here to support and guide you throughout your real estate journey. Should you have any questions, require assistance with the platforms, or need expert advice, don't hesitate to reach out to me. Your satisfaction and successful property hunt remain my top priorities.
Embrace this new era of real estate exploration, where you're in the driver's seat of your home search. I'm excited to embark on this journey with you and look forward to helping you find your dream home in Big Bear Lake.
Meet Bill Young, DRE# 01365728
My Big Bear Background
First and foremost, I have been a full-time REALTOR in Big Bear. since 2003....and for several years I served on the board of directors of the Big Bear Association of REALTORS as the Treasurer/Board Officer. I was licensed in California real estate in 2003. I am certified by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) as an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR). I am also certified by NAR as e-PRO (Certified Internet Professional), a certified agent for Short Sales and Foreclosures (SFR), a Certified Real Estate Negotiator (CREN), and an RSPS (Resort and Second Home property specialist). When all of my client’s concerns are satisfied, then I volunteer in the following areas: Past Chairman and Treasurer of the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce , Past President of the Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, current Secretary of the Big Bear Astronomical Society, Past President of the Big Bear Amateur Radio Club, and Past Director of Public Relations for the national Association of Zoos and Aquarium Docents (AZAD)
My Experience
After a decade with the U.S. Army and the Santa Ana Police dept, and 35 years in the computer business, I moved to Big Bear Lake in 2003. I have been an active, full-time REALTOR in Big Bear for the last 22 years. I have been involved with Internet commerce almost since it's inception in the early 1990's (please, no Al Gore jokes). From a Seller's perspective, this experience gives me the ability to use the internet to help Market your home... after all, getting your home in front of Agents and interested Buyers is the principle method of selling your property.
And if you select me as your Buyer's Agent, I will provide you with information that is timely, accurate, and comprehensive. After we find the right property for you, I will help with all aspects of the transaction, including negotiating the best possible terms and conditions for you. I promise to do everything that is legal and ethical to make your home buying or selling experience as painless, profitable, and enjoyable as possible. I'll personally be involved with your transaction from start to finish. If you need something, please contact me directly... and if I need something from you, I will be the person calling you.
Summary of 2024 in Big Bear valley
The big question in the minds of both buyers and sellers is “When will the current interest rates soften up a bit?”
Hello everyone, and happy new year to all....
We currently have about 450 properties listed here in Big Bear, but we can always use more really good listings.
From my vantage point in the RE/MAX Big Bear Village office, I chat with lots of buyers looking to buy rental cabins. This has been a very busy time for Big Bear even with a lower amount of natural snow. And we expect traffic to be even busier in the Spring months with folks trying to get in the last "runs" on the ski slopes.
Please keep me in mind if/when you want to put your cabin on the market. I'll be ready when you are !!!
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Here in Big Bear we work with 2 different MLSs... combined, there were about 1,000 cabins sold in the calendar year 2024. That is a bit lower than the previous year, but still good volume and pace. Overall, the median sold price dropped by almost 5% from the year earlier.
Here is how median 2024 compares with median 2023:
* # of bedrooms stayed the same: 3
* # of bathrooms stayed the same: 2
* Average cabin size grew a little to 1,334sf
* Year built stayed the same: 1977
* Average lot size stayed the same: 7,400sf
* Sold $/sf dropped a bit to $383/sf
* Median Sold price of cabin declined 4.7% to $482k
* Median Days on Market (DOM): stayed at 61 days.
Multiple offers going down?
•Multiple offers going down? Yes
* This graph shows (in RED) where the closing price was "above" the list price... that points to a Seller's market thru last summer. Example: April 2023 about 16% of the transactions closed above the asking price
* Then we see a transition in about June of 2023... the Green bars show that the contract prices were BELOW the asking price... that points to a Buyer's Market. Example: June 2023 saw about 50% of the closing prices were below the asking price.
* So, we can't rely on just the "inventory turns", but we must also factor in how quickly the home sold (DOM from a chart above)
* Bottom line: The April 2025 numbers point to a much more competitive market for Sellers (good for buyers). Remembering that the MARKET sets market price, WE don't.
Since the green bars in the graph are so high, this suggests that Sellers are pricing their homes with last year's mentality, while closing contract prices point to a much more competitive market for Sellers.
comments on big bear real estate
The Internet is Your Friend...
With all of the detailed property information that is available on internet sites like Realtor.com and Zillow.com, why do you still need a Realtor to guide you through the buying process here in Big Bear? Almost everything you would want to know about a property is available within just a few clicks on most real estate internet sites.
However, there are some very important details that you WON'T find on any internet site.
Details the internet can’t give you:
- Is real estate in Big Bear a good deal?
- What is the actual current condition of the home I found?
- Are the MLS pictures truthfully showing the property?
- What does your agent (me) think about the home's value?
- Are there any neighborhood problems?
- Does the street flood during rain or snow melt?
- Is there enough parking at the home?
- How about weekend noise?
- Any future developments that may affect the property's value?
- Is the road paved and maintained?
Step by step in the Buying Process. If you want a larger version of the chart at the right, go down to "Downloads" and click the "Life...".
Here is how the “buying” process will go:
- Contact your favorite Lender to get a pre-approval letter. This will set the correct expectations and point us to the correct price range. If the purchase will be in Cash, then be prepared to send me the “proof of funds” that we’ll include in any offer.
- Search the internet, and review each listing that I send to you... then tell me about the Big Bear cabins that you find interesting. ALL available properties will be on the internet sites.
- I’ll go to each property you tell me about to make sure there aren’t any obvious surprises, and make sure the property is still available.
- Next, you must come to Big Bear and physically look at the interesting properties. Most sellers won't accept a "blind offer" where the buyer hasn't physically been to the property.
- We’ll select a property that you want to buy, and I’ll prepare the Residential Purchase Agreement for your e-signatures.
- Upon Acceptance from the Seller, we'll start Escrow the next day. Typical escrows are about 45 days long. Stay nimble since often times simple and unusual issues will pop up during the escrow period. We'll need to respond to escrow's comments with great haste.
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I am an expert guide. Buying a home involves dozens of forms, reports, disclosures, and other technical documents. I’ve been a Realtor in Big Bear for about 20 years, so know the CAR forms we'll use.
Objective information and opinions. I can provide local information on utilities, zoning, schools, handyman and tradesmen, and more. I will also provide you with objective information about each property ... we will use that data to help you determine if the property has what you want/need.
Negotiation knowledge. There are many factors up for discussion when buying a home in Big Bear. Things like what inventory stays with the cabin, escrow length, inspection periods, security system log ins, etc. I will help you look at every angle, including crafting a purchase agreement that allows you the flexibility you need to complete the purchase.
Up-to-date experience. Most folks buy or sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each sale. Even if you've done it before, laws and regulations change. I've handled hundreds of transactions over the course of my career and I continuously study new laws, forms, and case studies, so you can be sure that my knowledge, and your transaction will be up to date.