February 2026

The 2026 housing market is expected to rebound with a 14% increase in home sales, aided by more inventory and lower mortgage rates. Home price growth will be modest, around 2-3%, improving affordability as incomes rise faster than prices. New home construction is set to grow slightly, though a housing deficit persists due to zoning limits. Demographic shifts include more single female buyers and dominant...

Southern California's median rent change over the past year was flat, with typical rents at $1,942 for one-bedroom and $2,378 for two-bedroom units. Rents fell in 25 cities by a median of 1.6%, mostly in lower-cost areas, while rising 1.5% in 25 cities, often in wealthier regions. Rent declines were notable in cities distant from job hubs, while increases occurred mainly in affluent Orange County....

Home sales rebound: Economists expect roughly 14% higher sales as inventory improves and lock-in effects fade. Prices rise modestly: National home prices forecast to grow about 2–3%, supporting stability without overheating. Inventory expands: Listings are up around 20%, easing competition and reducing bidding-war pressure. Market balance returns: Buyers gain...

Home values soften modestly: Prices are expected to edge slightly lower in early 2026 before stabilizing, with no sharp correction projected. Sales activity improves: Lower mortgage rates should gradually bring sidelined buyers back, lifting transaction volume. Rates drive momentum: Mortgage rate easing toward the low-6% range is the key catalyst for renewed...

Southern California's housing market showed stability at the end of 2025, with a 1.7% year-over-year sales increase and a slight 0.6% rise in median home prices. Sales surged 13.5% month-over-month in December, driven by lower mortgage rates averaging 6.19%. Inventory tightened to 2.9 months, and homes took about 35 days to sell. Price growth is expected to slow to 2-4% in 2026, with steady demand...

California's housing market ended 2025 with a 0.9% sales increase and a slight price cooling, signaling stabilization. December saw 288,200 annualized home sales and a median price of $850,680, down 0.4% from November. Inventory growth slowed, and mortgage rates dropped to 6.19%. For 2026, sales are projected to rise 2%, median prices to reach $905,000, with improved affordability and inventory,...

The most expensive homes in California are concentrated in the San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara metro areas. The top city has a typical home value of $7.62 million, with others ranging from about $2.68 million to $5.72 million. Home values have generally increased over five years, with some cities seeing gains over 60%. High mortgage rates...

Pick neighborhoods that match real routines, not aspirational lifestyles, to avoid long-term regrets. Set a sustainable budget that remains comfortable even as taxes, insurance, and expenses rise. Evaluate homes for condition and systems, not just style or cosmetic appeal. Choose local experts who understand micro markets, lenders, and inspections for informed...

Southern California luxury homes prioritize security, control, and peace of mind. Monitored security systems enhance safety while potentially reducing homeowner insurance costs. Video doorbells and outdoor cameras deliver luxury-level monitoring at accessible price points. Remote access technology replicates high-end convenience without full custom...

Buying a home for the first time is a significant financial decision that requires effective financial management, including setting aside emergency funds and ensuring the ability to handle monthly mortgage payments. First-time homebuyers can benefit from special loan programs like FHA, USDA, and HomePath ReadyBuyer. A good credit score is crucial for qualifying for favorable mortgage terms. It's...