22-Week Streak in Mortgage Applications You Need To Know!

High Sale of the Week: Historic Ole Hanson Home in San Clemente

A stunning historic Ole Hanson home at 606 Avenida Victoria in San Clemente just closed. Located just steps from the pier, this sale showcases the incredible demand for ocean view homes in San Clemente and waterfront properties for sale throughout the Beach Cities.

Ole Hanson properties are rare and highly sought-after for their architectural charm and prime locations near Southern California’s most desirable beaches.
This transaction highlights the ongoing strength of the luxury home market, even as overall inventory begins to shift.

Market Stats: Inventory is Dropping

Inventory is falling across Orange County and especially in Dana Point, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, and San Juan Capistrano.

What this means:

• For buyers: Competition is heating up, especially for move-in ready homes, affordable condos for sale, and homes with large backyards.

• For sellers: Lower inventory gives serious sellers an edge, often leading to multiple offers when homes are priced correctly.

• For investors: Properties like foreclosed homes, luxury condos, and waterfront estates remain a smart investment due to limited availability.

This trend shows that even with higher mortgage rates, Southern California homes are still highly desirable, especially in beachfront and gated communities.

Mortgage News: Rates Hold Steady

The Federal Reserve is signaling that interest rates are unlikely to fall this July, despite economic changes and job market updates.

Key takeaways:

• 30-year fixed mortgage rates remain in the mid-6% range.

• A surprising 22-week streak in mortgage applications shows buyers are adjusting to higher rates rather than waiting on the sidelines.

• Lower rates may still come later in the year, but for now, buyers should focus on affordability strategies, such as working with local lenders who understand the Orange County market.

Pro tip: Consider HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit) for renovations or as a bridge solution if you’re planning to sell your home fast while buying a new one.

Deal of the Week: Talega Pool Home in San Clemente

This week’s standout property is a remodeled pool home in Talega, a popular San Clemente neighborhood known for its family-friendly layout and top-rated schools.

The home went pending quickly, proving that well-priced homes in San Clemente are still moving fast — especially those offering:

• Private pools and spacious backyards

• Updated kitchens and open-concept designs

• Proximity to beaches, golf courses, and community amenities

Why Buyers and Sellers Should Act Now

With Orange County housing inventory dropping, buyers and sellers both need to be strategic:

• Buyers should get pre-approved to compete for waterfront properties, luxury homes, and affordable listings.

• Sellers can maximize their sale by improving curb appeal, staging their homes, and working with a top Orange County real estate agent for targeted marketing.

For those considering selling, this may be one of the best times to list a house before inventory climbs later in the year.

---

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.