Inventory Falls, Prices Rise
Orange County Housing Market Heats Up!

Is the Orange County Real Estate Market Heating Up Again?

Absolutely — the Beach Cities real estate market is seeing renewed strength, led by two major Dana Point sales over $10 million each this week. Despite the seasonal slowdown, buyer demand across San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, and San Juan Capistrano remains impressive.

With inventory falling and interest rates showing signs of relief, sellers are gaining more leverage heading into the winter season.

This Week’s Market Highlights

• Record Dana Point Sales:
  Two ocean-view luxury homes sold above $10M, reflecting the steady confidence among high-end buyers and investors.

• Inventory Update:
  Active listings are trending down again, creating a favorable environment for sellers and limited choices for buyers.

• Rate Cut Watch:
  The Federal Reserve’s next move could spark another drop in mortgage rates, giving buyers fresh motivation to act before prices climb.

• New Loan Product Alert:
  A 4.75% mortgage program may hit the market in early 2026, potentially opening new opportunities for first-time and luxury buyers alike.

• Deal of the Week:
  This week’s standout listing is in San Juan Capistrano, a property combining charm, location, and long-term upside potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will home prices go up if rates drop again?
✔ Yes. Historically, lower rates drive buyer activity, leading to higher competition and price appreciation — especially in desirable areas like Dana Point and San Clemente.

Q: Is Dana Point still a strong investment area?
✔ Absolutely. Consistent sales over $10M prove investor confidence is back. Luxury buyers continue to favor oceanfront estates and gated communities for long-term value.

Q: Should I wait until 2026 to buy?
✔ Not necessarily. With new loan products offering 4.75% rates, early 2026 could be a golden opportunity — before prices surge again from renewed buyer demand.

Why This Matters for Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers:

• Expect tight competition due to falling inventory and improving rates.

• Look for move-in ready homes, energy-efficient properties, or luxury listings that offer long-term appreciation.

For Sellers:

• Now is a strong window to list. With inventory dropping, buyers are motivated and willing to pay premiums for turnkey homes.

• Invest in staging and minor updates — small improvements can lead to major returns, especially in high-demand markets like Dana Point and Laguna Niguel.

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Whether you’re exploring luxury real estate in Dana Point, searching for horse properties in San Juan Capistrano, or comparing Laguna Niguel neighborhoods with top schools, staying informed is key to navigating today’s fast-moving market.

If you’re thinking about making a move in today’s market, you have to know how to use the current conditions to your advantage. Buyer behavior, market timing, and interest rates are all shifting, and staying informed can make a big difference. Don’t hesitate to give me a call at (949) 835-4713 or send an email to simon@sellwiththerightguy.com if you have any questions. Let’s talk strategy and figure out how you can win in real estate this year.