Kobetz Realty Joins Century 21: Shaping the Future of Mendocino Real Estate

617 S. State St., Ukiah, CA, USA - The real estate scene is buzzing with excitement and changes in Sonoma County, and at the forefront is a dynamic new player, Kobetz Realty. Founded in 2020 by Benjamin Kobetz, this Ukiah-based firm has carved a niche for itself, serving not only residential clients but also ranch and commercial needs across Mendocino, Lake, and Sonoma counties. A significant milestone has just been reached: Kobetz Realty has become associated with the renowned Century 21 Real Estate network, rebranding itself as Century 21 Kobetz Realty. This new affiliation opens doors for improved marketing strategies and access to a vast national reach, connecting with over 135,000 agents in more than 11,900 offices worldwide, as noted by North Bay Business Journal.

Transitioning from his family’s dealership, Motorsports of Ukiah, to real estate, Benjamin Kobetz brings with him a robust philosophy rooted in passion, positivity, and a purpose-driven approach—values that stem from his family’s 40-year legacy in the community. With 14 sales associates backing him, Kobetz Realty, now located at 617 S. State St., is positioned to make a mark in the local real estate landscape.

The Shifting Real Estate Landscape

As Kobetz Realty steps onto the national stage, Sonoma County is experiencing a notable shift in its real estate market. The first quarter of 2025 has brought forth compelling data indicating a 55.7% year-over-year increase in home inventory, climbing from 490 to 764 average listings. Particularly under $2 million, there’s been a whopping 64.1% rise in properties, shaking up the market dynamics dramatically. According to Modern Living Sonoma, this surge in available homes is changing the playing field for buyers and sellers alike.

Interestingly, the absorption rates—the percentage of homes sold—have taken a nosedive. Overall, they fell from 47.9% to 30.5%, with the under $2 million segment dropping from 60.6% to 36.6%. Such findings create contrasting experiences in the market: homes below $2 million are still selling faster in what’s classified as a “Seller’s Market,” while properties over $2 million are languishing in a “Buyer’s Market,” with an absorption rate of just 8.2%.

Strategies for Sellers and Buyers

For those looking to sell, accurate pricing has never been more crucial. Homes that require price reductions typically linger longer on the market—145.44 days for reduced properties compared to a brisk 42.33 days for those priced right initially. It’s a stark reminder that being realistic about pricing can pave the way for smoother transactions, especially in the increasingly competitive environment of the luxury market.

Buyers, on the other hand, are presented with a buffet of choices due to the increased inventory. However, the landscape remains competitive, particularly for well-priced homes. Cash transactions are robust, with an impressive 45.75% in Healdsburg alone, and 54.90% within the luxury segment over $2 million. This bodes well for those with liquid assets but presents a challenge for traditional buyers who may need financing.

Looking ahead, the real estate community will watch closely to see how the luxury market adapts. Will it echo the recovery trends observed in Healdsburg or continue on its diverging path? Only time will tell, but for now, Kobetz Realty is well-poised to ride the waves of change.