Moving From Simi Valley to Bakersfield?

Bakersfield is one of the top places Simi Valley home shoppers search, often for more space while staying close enough to visit family. Staying in California keeps a lot simple, but Prop 19 and timing can still make a big difference.

Our free guide, Leaving California: The Seller's Game Plan, covers:

• The tax questions to answer first, and the list to bring your CPA
• A worksheet for your real walk-away number
• Three ways to time your sale with your Bakersfield purchase
• How to sell from a distance if you've already moved
• A 90-day checklist for the move

Selling in Simi Valley: what to settle before you list

• Capital gains. If you owned and lived in the home for two of the last five years, the IRS generally lets you exclude up to $250,000 of gain ($500,000 for most married couples filing jointly). That's IRS Publication 523. Longtime owners can be over that, so ask your CPA before you list.
• Prop 19 can move your property tax base with you. If you're 55 or older (or severely disabled, or a wildfire or disaster victim), Prop 19 lets you transfer your current home's taxable value to a replacement home anywhere in California, within two years of selling, up to three times. If the new home costs more, the difference is added to the transferred value. You file form BOE-19-B with the Kern County assessor.
• The withholding form. At closing, escrow may withhold 3⅓% of the sale price for the California Franchise Tax Board unless an exemption applies (Form 593). Selling your main home often qualifies for one.
• Timing. Sell first, buy first, or close both at once. We plan both moves together so you're not stuck in between.

What to plan for in Bakersfield

• Same state taxes, new county. Your state income tax doesn't change. Your new home's property tax depends on its taxable value, which is why Prop 19 (above) matters if you qualify.
• Ask about assessments and HOAs. Some newer Kern County neighborhoods have special assessments or HOA dues. Ask for the actual tax bill and HOA documents before you write an offer.
• Summer heat and cooling. Visit in July, and compare cooling costs, insulation, shade and the age of the AC system when you compare homes.
• The Grapevine drive. If you'll come back to Simi Valley or LA regularly, plan for weather closures on I-5 in winter.

Questions people ask

Can I keep my Simi Valley property tax base if I move to Bakersfield?

If you're 55 or older (or severely disabled, or a disaster victim), Prop 19 lets you transfer your taxable value to a replacement home anywhere in California within two years of selling, up to three times. If the new home costs more, the difference is added. File form BOE-19-B with the Kern County assessor.

Do I still have to deal with Form 593 if I stay in California?

Form 593 applies to California real estate sales generally. Selling your principal residence often qualifies for an exemption; escrow will have you complete the form before closing.

Can you sell my Simi Valley home if I've already moved to Bakersfield?

Yes. We handle showings, vendors and updates here, and escrow can usually arrange for you to sign where you are.

Can you help me find an agent in Bakersfield?

Yes. We'll help you connect with an experienced local agent there and coordinate both closings so the dates line up.

Is this tax advice?

No. We're Realtors, not CPAs. We explain the general rules and give you a real estimate of your sale price and selling costs to take to your tax professional.

Keep reading

• Leaving California? How to Sell Your Simi Valley Home and Time Your Move
• How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Simi Valley?
• Moving from Simi Valley to Las Vegas
• Moving from Simi Valley to Phoenix
• Moving from Simi Valley to Boise
• Moving from Simi Valley to Nashville
• Moving from Simi Valley to Dallas
• Moving from Simi Valley to Florida
• Moving from Simi Valley to San Diego
• Moving from Simi Valley to Portland

Sources: California State Board of Equalization, Introduction to Prop 19 and form BOE-19-B; county assessor Prop 19 guidance; IRS Publication 523; California Franchise Tax Board, Form 593. Rules change, so confirm details with the agency or your tax professional. Information current as of October 2026.