2025 CDAR Spring Summit Delivers Market Clarity and Motivation for Desert Realtors

Rancho Mirage, CA – The California Desert Association of Realtors (CDAR) hosted its highly anticipated 2025 Spring Summit on March 26th at Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage, bringing together hundreds of real estate professionals for a day of insight, strategy, and future-focused discussion. The event’s cornerstone was an informative Coachella Valley Economic Forecast presented by Pat Veling, CEO of Real Data Strategies, alongside a high-energy keynote from Jeff Glover, nationally known speaker and coach.

The Summit offered an in-depth look at the current market landscape and where it’s headed. According to Veling, the data is telling a clear story: while 2024 was marked by challenges—rising mortgage rates, fewer lendable buyers, and lower inventory—2025 signals a slow but steady shift toward balance and opportunity. “This is what we suggest you look for in 2025,” said Veling. “Home sales and activity are going to be up slightly because mortgage rates are going to fall. They’ve been hovering around 6.9% to 7%, but they’re trending down, currently averaging about 6.75%. Average prices will again be higher, so if people are waiting for a significant price correction, it’s not likely to happen even with increased inventory.”

That inventory increase is already visible. In December 2024, there were over 3,500 active listings in the Coachella Valley—up from just 2,870 in December 2023, a 19.5% jump. This means sellers are facing increased competition, and pricing strategy is critical. “Sellers need to carefully compare their property and price to similar active inventory in which they are competing,” Veling explained. “Sellers are finally getting realistic about the significant competition that they have.” The economic forecast also covered job growth in the Coachella Valley and rising infrastructure pressures.

Along with the data-rich forecast, Jeff Glover energized the room with a motivational presentation, focused on actionable strategies to become a better Realtor. “What we do determines our success, not the market,” Glover told the crowd. “My behavior and attitude dictate how I show up.” His message paired seamlessly with Veling’s data-driven outlook. “As Jeff has suggested,” Veling added, “when others lay back, the opportunity arises for capturing market share and for doubling down on your own practice and getting better at what you do—opportunity creates and feeds itself.”

Stephenie Zinn, 2025 CDAR President, touched on the importance of the information provided in Pat Veling’s forecast, stating, “Sellers might be used to getting multiple offers right away, but with more homes available, buyers can afford to take their time and weigh their options.  Pricing your property realistically and ensuring it’s in excellent condition are key to attracting serious buyers and minimizing time on the market.  Price it right, prepare it well, and the serious buyers will come knocking.”

Together, the two presentations captured the heart of the 2025 CDAR Spring Summit: knowledge is power, but action is everything. As the Coachella Valley real estate market finds its footing in a new economic cycle, CDAR continues to provide the tools, insights, and community support agents need to grow and thrive.

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The California Desert Association of Realtors is the trusted source for real estate in the desert cities. We are a trade association for real estate professionals residing in the Greater Palm Springs area and the surrounding areas. Committed to advancing the real estate industry, CDAR provides education, advocacy, and networking opportunities to its members.