While prices are holding steady, growing inventory and slower sales activity are reshaping the local real estate landscape.

Sacramento’s market is cooling into a healthier pace. Buyers have breathing room, and sellers need to adapt to shifting conditions.

Here’s a side-by-side look to help you decide which route might be the best fit for your budget, lifestyle, and goals.

If you’re looking to diversify your portfolio without taking on the risks and responsibilities of ownership, here are a few smart ways to invest in real estate—no property purchase required.