Melissa's Market Minute

May 2025

May has always been one of my favorite months—it’s a time when flowers bloom and everything feels fresh and new. But 21 years ago, it became even more special when my first son was born.

At that point, I had been a teacher for five years and thought motherhood would be a breeze. Little did I know just how much work it would be! I now have three boys, and being their mom is one of my greatest joys. Over the years, the challenges of motherhood have shifted and evolved.

I vividly remember how physically exhausting it was when they were younger. Running around after three boys was no joke—they were always into something! Wrestling, playing every sport imaginable… you name it, they did it. I once shared with another teacher how long and tiring my days were, only for her—who had high schoolers at the time—to laugh and say, “Just you wait.”

I never forgot that moment, and now I fully understand what she meant. A few years ago, I found myself parenting a college student, a high schooler, and a middle schooler all at once. The challenges I face today are definitely different, and in many ways, far more stressful.

Now the questions keeping me up at night aren’t about scraped knees or spilled milk—they’re about who their friends are, how their grades are holding up, and whether they’ll get into a good college. I worry about their safety when they're out driving with friends. The stakes feel higher, and the worries more complex.

Still, despite all of it—the exhaustion, the anxiety, the uncertainty—motherhood remains the most rewarding journey I’ve ever taken. Each stage brings its own kind of beauty, and I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.

I hope all you mothers out there had a wonderful Mother’s Day and were able to take a moment to reflect on just how important our job truly is. 💐

Here’s a picture of my boys and me (yes, my youngest has a black eye) on what I once thought was one of the “tough” days. Funny how perspective changes over time. Those messy, chaotic, exhausting moments were also some of the most precious. 💙

Motherhood isn’t easy, but it’s filled with love, growth, and moments we’ll carry in our hearts forever.

What I'm Seeing In the Market

This year has been an interesting one in real estate so far. Typically, we see a significant jump in inventory from the start of the year through the spring months. That trend usually aligns with buyers hoping to settle into their new homes before summer ends and the school year begins.

However, this year feels different.

Inventory has remained relatively steady over the past few months, rather than spiking as it usually does. That said, we are starting to see signs of more listings coming to market—and we anticipate even more in the months ahead.

It’s a reminder that every year has its own rhythm, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of those years that challenges the norms. Whether you’re buying or selling, staying informed and flexible is key in this shifting landscape.

The Tri-Valley housing market is anticipated to maintain its competitiveness, particularly in areas with limited inventory and high demand. However, increased inventory and stabilizing interest rates may lead to a more balanced market, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Market Highlights

(I've added a lot more slides this month and would be happy to go over this data with you)

Melissa Wen

DRE# 01954977

REALTOR®

M: 925.785.6497

melissa.wen@compass.com