SoCal Real Estate Snapshot: Insights for Orange County, Riverside, and San Bernardino

As we move deeper into fall, the Southern California real estate market is showing seasonal trends that are critical for both buyers and sellers to understand. With the holiday season approaching, market conditions are evolving, and sellers who adapt their strategies to match the slower pace of autumn can enhance their home’s appeal in a more competitive landscape. For buyers, this season may present unique opportunities to find homes with less competition, allowing for more thoughtful, strategic decision-making.

In this market update, we’ll examine the latest trends across Orange County, Riverside, and San Bernardino. Whether you’re preparing to list your home or searching for a new one, understanding how the market is evolving as we head into winter will help you navigate these changes with greater confidence and clarity.

Orange County: Strong Demand Amid Growing Inventory

The Orange County real estate market remains competitive, with metrics highlighting both strong buyer demand and limited inventory. Currently, the Months Supply of Inventory stands at 2.09, indicating a lean seller’s market but with signs of change. The 12-month increase of 20.11% in Months of Inventory suggests a gradual shift toward a more balanced market, potentially offering buyers more options. Despite this shift, homes are selling quickly, with a median of 18 days on the market, showing that desirable, well-priced properties still attract attention and swift action.

Prices remain robust, with the List to Sold Price Percentage at 100.4%, meaning most homes are selling slightly above the asking price. The median sale price is $1,175,000, underscoring the area’s high property values. Given these trends, buyers should be prepared for quick decisions and competitive offers, while sellers may find favorable conditions for achieving strong returns.

Key Takeaway: Orange County's market remains seller-friendly but is slowly moving toward balance. Buyers and sellers alike should stay agile, and working with an experienced real estate professional can be crucial for navigating this competitive landscape.

Riverside: Strong Demand Amid Signs of Market Balance

Riverside’s real estate market remains active and competitive, with a Months Supply of Inventory at 2.28, indicating a seller’s market where demand continues to exceed supply. However, with a 12-month inventory increase of 25.27%, the market is gradually shifting towards a more balanced environment, potentially giving buyers more leverage and creating a slightly slower price appreciation. Homes are still moving quickly, with a Median Days on Market of just 19 days, showing that competitive pricing and buyer demand are keeping sales swift.

At the same time, Riverside’s List to Sold Price Percentage at 100.3% signals that most homes sell above asking, reflecting strong buyer interest. The Median Sold Price of $666,950 provides an overall view of property values, which remain high in the area. Overall, buyers should be prepared for a fast-moving market, while sellers can expect favorable conditions that support asking—or even higher—prices.

Key Takeaway: Riverside’s market shows signs of balancing yet remains competitive. Working with an experienced real estate professional can help both buyers and sellers navigate these evolving dynamics confidently.

San Bernardino: Balancing High Demand with Growing Inventory

San Bernardino’s real estate market shows continued competitiveness, with a Months Supply of Inventory at 2.53, indicating a slight tilt towards a seller’s market where demand often outpaces supply. The 12-Month Change in Months of Inventory, up by 9.52%, points to a subtle shift towards balance, giving buyers more options and potential for negotiation. Homes are selling relatively quickly, with a Median Days on Market of 21, suggesting steady demand and pricing that aligns with buyer expectations.

The List to Sold Price Percentage at 100.9% reveals that many homes are selling above the asking price, likely due to competitive bidding. With a Median Sold Price of $525,000, the market maintains strong property values, offering a reliable pricing benchmark for both buyers and sellers. In this fast-paced environment, buyers should prepare for quick decision-making and competitive offers, while sellers can expect favorable conditions for maximizing their sale.

Key Takeaway: San Bernardino’s market remains active, with low inventory and high demand driving quick sales and strong prices. Both buyers and sellers can benefit from working with a knowledgeable real estate professional to navigate this evolving market.

Navigate the Market with Confidence: Make Strategic Moves in a Shifting Landscape

Understanding the evolving trends in the Southern California real estate market is essential for making smart decisions as a buyer or seller. With changing inventory levels, fluctuating prices, and varying buyer demand across Orange County, Riverside, and San Bernardino, having a clear strategy will help you succeed in today’s dynamic market.

As your trusted real estate expert, I’m here to guide you through these trends, ensuring you make the most informed and strategic decisions. Whether you’re buying or selling, staying proactive and well-informed will empower you to take advantage of the current market conditions and achieve your real estate goals. Let’s navigate this exciting market together!

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