What’s the biggest misconception about the Los Angeles housing market right now?
People still talk about LA like it is one market moving in one direction. It is not. One street can feel soft, the next one feels competitive, depending on price, condition, layout, and how realistic the seller is. The other misconception is that prices are “crashing.” What I am seeing is more of a slow, selective reset, not a free fall.
Are we in a correction, stabilization period, or a new long-term pricing reality:
We are in a correction that is turning into stabilization, with a new normal pace. The easy years are gone, buyers are pickier, and overpriced homes sit. Well-priced homes, especially ones that feel turnkey, still sell, but usually with more negotiation and more time. I do not think we are going back to the old interest rate world, so pricing must reflect today’s monthly payment reality.
Which neighborhoods are quietly outperforming expectations:
A few areas are holding up better than people assume, mostly because supply is still tight and demand stays steady for neighborhoods with strong lifestyle pull and good day-to-day convenience. I’m seeing consistent strength in pockets of the Westside, including Mar Vista, and in eastside neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Los Feliz. Parts of the South Bay are also staying active, especially for homes that are well-located and move-in ready. The common thread is simple, good product, priced right, still sells.Is luxury still driving the narrative in LA, or are mid-tier buyers shaping the future?
Luxury still gets the headlines, but the day-to-day market is being shaped by the buyers right below that top tier. They are the ones doing the most deals, negotiating the hardest, and setting the tone on value. At the luxury end, great properties still trade, but buyers want a reason to act, and they want the home to feel special, not just expensive.
How have interest rates changed buyer psychology in Southern California, specifically:
Rates changed the conversation from “Do we love it?” to “Does this payment make sense?” Buyers are more payment-focused, more analytical, and less willing to stretch for a maybe. They are also more comfortable asking for seller credits, repairs, and price adjustments because they feel the carrying cost every month. Even with rates dipping lately, the mindset has shifted, and I do not think it snaps back overnight.
My Philosophy “Life’s experiences have shaped my resilience and perspective and taught me to focus on what truly matters. I am fulfilled by the support of my family and inspired by art, both of which keep me grounded and creative.In my work, I bring these values forward. I serve with honesty and integrity, always protecting my clients’ best interests and guiding them with care. To me, real estate is not just about property — it’s about trust, connection, and helping people take meaningful steps in their lives.”
Michael Collins is a Beverly Hills real estate agent with 30+ years of experience representing buyers and sellers throughout Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. A lifelong Beverly Hills resident and Beverly Hills High School alum, Michael has spent his career working in the communities he knows best.
After an early career in entertainment management, Michael transitioned into residential real estate, bringing a client first approach built on discretion, clear communication, and strong negotiation. He is known for guiding clients through complex decisions with calm, direct advice in an ever-changing Los Angeles real estate market.\
Michael specializes in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood real estate, with particular expertise in architectural homes, condominiums, and legacy properties. His clients include creatives, executives, attorneys, and long-time homeowners, many of whom work with him repeatedly over the years.