The Anaheim real estate market continues to perform steadily as we close out 2025. Despite fluctuating interest rates, buyer demand in many of Anaheim’s family-friendly neighborhoods has stayed strong. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, understanding the current market helps you make confident decisions. Home Prices in Anaheim Remain Strong Anaheim’s median single-family home price in December 2025 is approximately $918,000, showing slight year-over-year growth. Low inventory continues to support pricing across the city. Median Home Price: $918,000 Average Days on Market: 22 days Inventory Level: Still below pre-pandemic averages Move-in-ready homes and properties in Anaheim Hills or strong school districts continue to attract the most buyer activity. Buyer Demand Remains Consistent Even with higher borrowing costs, Anaheim remains one of the most desirable cities in North Orange County for families, professionals, and first-time buyers. Many buyers are expanding their search into nearby cities such as Orange, Fullerton, Placentia, and Garden Grove — but Anaheim’s central location keeps it especially competitive. Well-priced homes between $750,000 and $1 million continue to generate strong interest. Seller Advantage Continues Although the market is more balanced than during the peak pandemic years, sellers still maintain an advantage in many Anaheim neighborhoods. Homes priced correctly often sell within 2–3 weeks Updated homes still receive multiple offers Low inventory helps keep values stable Entry-level homes ($700K–$900K) remain highly competitive As we move into early 2026, seller activity is expected to increase as more buyers return after the holidays. Anaheim Rental Market Strength Anaheim continues to attract investors thanks to strong rental demand and low vacancy rates. Popular rental areas include: Anaheim Colony Historic District Platinum Triangle Anaheim Hills Vacancy rates remain below 4%, making Anaheim one of the stronger rental markets in North Orange County. Market Forecast for Early 2026 The Anaheim housing market is expected to remain steady heading into 2026. Inventory may rise slightly in January and February, but demand is projected to stay strong due to Anaheim’s central location, job market, and variety of home types. Buyers should be ready to act quickly on well-priced homes, while sellers can anticipate solid early-year activity. Thinking About Buying or Selling in Anaheim? Understanding the market is the first step to making the right move. If you're curious about your home's current value or considering selling in early 2026, now is an ideal time to get an updated home valuation. ?? Get Your Free Anaheim Home Value Report Thinking about selling? Get your free, instant home valuation today: ?? CLICK HERE for your FREE home valuation — fast, accurate, and personalized. You're in good hands, every step of the way.

  Anaheim is one of the most popular cities in Orange County for families looking for great schools, parks, safe neighborhoods, and strong community environments. With a mix of suburban, historic, and modern communities, Anaheim offers options for nearly every lifestyle and budget. This 2025 family-focused neighborhood guide highlights the best areas to consider when moving to Anaheim. Anaheim Hills – Top Schools, Space, and Scenic Living Located on the eastern side of the city, Anaheim Hills is one of the most desirable areas for families. Its suburban feel, larger homes, and excellent schools make it a top choice. Highly rated elementary and middle schools Safe, quiet, and family-oriented neighborhoods Parks, golf courses, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation Homes with larger lots and updated floor plans Best for: Families wanting space, top schools, and a quieter suburban lifestyle. Colony Historic District – Charm, Character & Walkability The Colony Historic District is a unique neighborhood filled with Craftsman, Spanish, and Victorian homes. It offers a true community feel with charming streets and walkable access to shops, cafes, and parks. Historic architecture and well-preserved homes Walkable to downtown Anaheim restaurants Strong community events and neighborhood pride Tree-lined streets and local parks Best for: Families who love historic homes, walkability, and community charm. West Anaheim – More Space and Affordability West Anaheim offers some of the best value in the city. Homes tend to be larger and more affordable compared to other parts of Orange County. Great for larger families needing 4+ bedrooms Close to major freeways and shopping centers Many single-story homes ideal for kids or multi-generational living Best for: Families needing more space at a more affordable price. Platinum Triangle – Modern Living & Easy Commutes The Platinum Triangle is Anaheim’s modern urban hub, offering newer condos and townhomes with excellent access to transportation. Newer construction with modern amenities Near ARTIC station for rail commuters Walkable to dining, shopping, and entertainment Low-maintenance homes perfect for busy families Best for: Young families, working professionals, or those wanting modern, low-maintenance living. East Anaheim – Classic Suburban Neighborhood Feel East Anaheim appeals to families wanting an established residential community with good schools, parks, and easy freeway access. Well-kept suburban neighborhoods Close to schools, local parks, and sports facilities Convenient access to the 57 and 91 freeways Best for: Families seeking balance between affordability, convenience, and community. Which Anaheim Neighborhood Is Right for Your Family? Choosing the right neighborhood depends on your lifestyle, budget, school preferences, and space needs. If you're unsure where to start, I can help you compare communities and match you with the best areas for your family. ?? Get Your Free Anaheim Home Value Report Thinking about selling your Anaheim home? Get your free, instant property valuation today: ?? CLICK HERE for your FREE home valuation — fast, accurate, and personalized. You’re in good hands, every step of the way.

The Irvine real estate market remains one of the strongest and most competitive in Orange County as we close out 2025. Known for its master-planned communities, excellent schools, and strong job market, Irvine continues to attract buyers and sellers despite changing interest rates. Home Prices in Irvine Stay Resilient As of December 2025, Irvine’s median single-family home price is approximately $1,420,000. Low inventory and consistent demand continue to support home values throughout the city. Median Home Price: ~$1.42M Average Days on Market: 21 days Inventory: Limited, especially in family-focused communities Homes located in areas such as Woodbridge, Northwood, and Great Park Neighborhoods continue to see strong buyer interest. Buyer Demand Remains Strong Irvine continues to attract professionals, families, and international buyers due to its proximity to major employment centers, highly rated schools, and well-maintained neighborhoods. Well-priced homes — particularly those with modern upgrades — are still selling quickly, often with multiple offers. Seller Advantage Continues While the market has balanced compared to prior years, sellers in Irvine still maintain an advantage thanks to limited supply. Move-in-ready homes sell quickly Homes near top schools perform best Pricing correctly is key to strong results Early 2026 is expected to bring renewed buyer activity as interest rates stabilize and buyers return after the holidays. Market Outlook for Early 2026 Looking ahead, the Irvine housing market is projected to remain stable with moderate price growth. Demand is expected to stay strong due to Irvine’s strong employment base, quality of life, and limited housing supply. Buyers should be prepared to act decisively, while sellers can expect solid activity during the first quarter of 2026. ?? Get Your Free Irvine Home Value Report Thinking about selling your Irvine home? ?? Click here for your FREE home valuation — fast, accurate, and personalized. You’re in good hands, every step of the way.

Irvine is consistently ranked as one of the best cities in California for families. With master-planned communities, top-rated schools, parks, and a strong sense of safety, Irvine offers a wide range of neighborhoods that appeal to families at every stage. Woodbridge – Classic Family Living Woodbridge is one of Irvine’s most established and family-friendly neighborhoods. Known for its lakes, walking paths, and excellent schools, it remains a top choice for buyers with children. Two lakes with beach access Highly rated elementary and middle schools Community pools, parks, and trails Northwood – Quiet Streets & Strong Schools Northwood is ideal for families seeking larger homes, quieter neighborhoods, and some of Irvine’s highest-performing schools. Spacious single-family homes Top-performing school districts Close proximity to shopping and freeways Great Park Neighborhoods – Newer Homes & Amenities Great Park Neighborhoods offers newer construction, modern floor plans, and resort-style amenities. It’s especially popular with growing families looking for newer homes and community activities. Newer homes and townhomes Sports fields, pools, and parks Highly rated Irvine schools Turtle Rock – Scenic Views & Established Community Turtle Rock offers hillside views, larger lots, and a quieter environment. It appeals to families looking for privacy while staying close to top schools and nature. Hillside and canyon views Access to hiking trails Established single-family homes Which Irvine Neighborhood Is Right for Your Family? Choosing the right neighborhood depends on your lifestyle, budget, and school preferences. Irvine offers outstanding options whether you prefer established communities or newer developments. ?? Get Your Free Irvine Home Value Report ?? Click here for your FREE Irvine home valuation — fast and accurate. You’re in good hands, every step of the way.

Buying a home is a big win, but it can feel like walking into a test you didn’t study for. The goal is simple: buy the right home without overpaying, and avoid expensive surprises after you move in. A few smart moves before you tour homes can save you real money, not just stress. This matters even more in December, when fewer buyers are out shopping and some sellers want to wrap things up before year-end. In late 2025, inventory has been healthier than earlier years, and homes have been taking longer to sell, which often gives buyers more breathing room to negotiate. Below are practical tips that work for first-time and repeat buyers, with plain-English explanations you can use right away. Before You Shop: Get Your Money, Team, and Plan Ready Shopping without prep is like going grocery shopping hungry, you’ll grab things you don’t need and regret it later. Your best protection is clarity: what you can afford, who’s advising you, and what trade-offs you’ll accept. Know your real budget (monthly payment, not just the price) Most buyers focus on the purchase price, but your life runs on the monthly payment. Build your budget from the full monthly cost: Mortgage principal and interest Property taxes Homeowners insurance HOA dues (if any) Basic upkeep (even newer homes need fixes) A simple rule: try to keep the total housing payment around 25% to 30% of your take-home pay so you still have room for groceries, travel, child care, and surprise car repairs. Also, don’t drain every dollar for the down payment. Keep an emergency fund after closing. The first few months in a new home often bring “small” purchases that add up fast (locks, blinds, tools, a plumber visit). One more money reality: rates matter more than most people expect. In December 2025, average 30-year fixed rates have been roughly in the low-to-mid 6% range. On a $350,000 loan, a half-point rate change can move your payment by about $100 a month. That’s not a rounding error, it’s your phone bill for the next 30 years. Get mortgage pre-approved and shop lenders for a better deal Pre-approval is not the same as pre-qualification. Pre-approval means the lender reviewed your finances and is willing to lend up to a set amount, assuming the home checks out. It makes your offer stronger, and it keeps you from falling in love with a house you can’t comfortably buy. If you’re new to the process, this explainer on how mortgage pre-approval works lays out what lenders review and what documents you’ll need. Then do something many buyers skip: compare at least 2 to 3 lenders. Ask each one for the same items so it’s an apples-to-apples choice: Interest rate and APR Points (fees you pay upfront to lower the rate) Lender fees (origination, underwriting, processing) Estimated closing costs and cash needed at closing You’ll also hear loan type names tossed around. The common ones are conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA. Some first-time buyer programs can reduce the cash you need up front, so ask what you qualify for in your state and county. Finally, pick your team early. A good real estate agent is part strategist, part translator. If you want a quick overview of buyer guidance and common mistakes, Bankrate’s tips for first-time homebuyers are a solid checklist. Smart House Hunting: Find the Right Home and Spot Red Flags Early By December, buyers often feel rushed. People want to “be settled” by the new year. That pressure can push you into skipping steps. Slow down and make the search more objective, especially when every house starts to blur together. Make a must-have list, then test it against real life You’re not buying a Pinterest board, you’re buying a place to live on a random Tuesday. Start with two buckets: must-haves and nice-to-haves. Then rank your top five needs. Common must-haves include: Location and commute: You can update a kitchen, but you can’t move the highway.Bedrooms and layout: Think about daily flow, not just square footage.Safety and noise: Visit the area at night if you can.Schools (if relevant): Look beyond ratings, check boundaries and commute time.Outdoor space and parking: A “cute yard” is different from a usable one. Think 5 to 7 years ahead. Will you need a home office? Could an aging parent move in? Are you likely to change jobs and commute routes? A home that fits only your current life can become cramped fast. Tour like a pro: quick checks that can save you thousands When you tour, act like a curious skeptic. You’re not being negative, you’re being protected. Here’s a fast, high-impact set of checks: Ask the age of the roof and major systems (HVAC, water heater) Look for water stains on ceilings, around windows, and under sinks Check for foundation cracks and doors that don’t close right Open and close a few windows, feel for drafts Notice smells (musty odor can signal moisture) Test water pressure in a sink and shower Peek at the electrical panel (you’re checking for neat labeling and no obvious rust) Check cell service inside the home Winter adds a few special “tell me the truth” moments. Test the heat in multiple rooms. Stand near windows and exterior doors and feel for cold air. Look at the attic access if it’s visible, you’re looking for basic insulation and signs of moisture. If you want a winter-focused list to keep handy, HomeLight’s home winterization checklist is useful for spotting what could turn into a cold, expensive problem later. Take photos and notes in every home, even if it feels silly. After five tours, they’ll blend together like identical hotel rooms. Making an Offer and Closing: Negotiate, Protect Yourself, and Avoid Costly Mistakes December can work in a buyer’s favor, but only if you stay disciplined. In late 2025, homes have been sitting longer on average, and many sellers have been making price cuts or offering perks. That doesn’t mean every seller will bargain, it means you should negotiate with facts, not emotion. Offer tips that win without overpaying A strong offer isn’t always the highest number. It’s the one that feels safest to the seller. Ask your agent to pull local data like recent sales, average days on market, and how often homes are closing below list price. If a home has been sitting for weeks, there may be more room to negotiate, especially in December when fewer buyers are touring. Ways to strengthen your offer without simply paying more: Flexible timing: Offer the seller the closing date they want.Seller credits: Ask for help with closing costs or a rate buydown.Repair requests that make sense: Focus on health, safety, and big-ticket items. If you want negotiation ideas that commonly work, Bankrate’s guide on how to negotiate closing costs gives clear options, including when to ask for credits instead of repairs. Do not skip the inspection, and understand appraisal and closing costs The inspection is your reality check. A licensed inspector looks for issues like roof wear, electrical problems, plumbing leaks, HVAC concerns, and signs of moisture or pests. Winter can be especially revealing because heating, insulation, and drafts show up fast. The appraisal is different. An appraisal estimates the home’s value for the lender. If it comes in low, your loan amount may shrink, and you may need to renegotiate or bring more cash. Closing costs are the collection of fees due at the finish line. They often include lender fees, title work, escrow setup, prepaid taxes, and prepaid insurance. Many buyers are surprised by the total, so review the Loan Estimate early and ask your lender to explain anything you don’t recognize. Mistakes worth avoiding: Trying to “time” the market instead of buying within your budget Stretching the payment until there’s no breathing room Draining savings after closing Waiving inspection or appraisal protection too quickly Conclusion Buying a home goes better when you focus on three wins: prep your finances early, house hunt with clear priorities, and protect yourself during the offer and closing. December can be a smart time to shop because competition often cools off, and motivated sellers may be more open to credits or flexible terms. If you want a simple next step list, keep it short: get pre-approved, choose an agent you trust, set a monthly budget you can live with, and book inspections fast once you’re under contract. Buy the house that fits your life, not the one that just looks good in photos. Fill out the form below to get started. There’s no obligation — just clear, honest guidance. Get Expert Buyer Help

January 2026 brings a clearer picture of where the Orange County housing market is heading. Buyers are watching interest rates closely, sellers are adjusting expectations, and inventory levels are creating opportunities in specific pockets of the county. Below is a breakdown of what’s happening right now — and what it means for you if you’re planning to buy or sell in Orange County. Orange County Home Prices – January 2026 Home prices across Orange County remain resilient, though appreciation has slowed compared to the peak years. Well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods are still selling, while overpriced listings are sitting longer and seeing price reductions. Median home prices remain near historic highs Move-in-ready homes attract the most buyer activity Luxury and coastal markets are more price-sensitive Inventory Levels and Housing Supply Inventory has increased compared to early 2025, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in recent years. However, Orange County is still far from an oversupply, especially in family-friendly and high-demand cities. More listings than last year, but still below long-term averages Condos and townhomes make up a growing share of available inventory Homes priced correctly are selling faster than the county average Days on Market and Buyer Activity Homes are taking longer to sell compared to the ultra-competitive years, but buyer demand has not disappeared. Instead, buyers are being more selective and strategic. Average days on market has increased Multiple offers still happen for standout properties Buyers are negotiating more on price and terms Is It a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market in Orange County? As of January 2026, Orange County is best described as a balanced market with pockets of opportunity. Some neighborhoods lean buyer-friendly, while others still favor sellers. This makes hyper-local pricing and strategy more important than ever. What This Means for Buyers Buyers today have more leverage than they did in recent years. With increased inventory and longer days on market, opportunities exist — especially for prepared buyers. More room for negotiation Opportunities on homes with recent price reductions Less competition compared to peak years If you’re buying, timing and local insight matter. Get New Orange County Listings What This Means for Sellers Sellers who price strategically and prepare their homes properly are still achieving strong results. The key difference in 2026 is that buyers are no longer forgiving of overpricing. Accurate pricing is critical Presentation and condition matter more Homes that miss the market early tend to sit longer Get Your Home Value Range Orange County Market Outlook for 2026 Looking ahead, Orange County real estate continues to benefit from limited land, strong job centers, and long-term demand. While the pace of appreciation may remain moderate, well-located homes are expected to hold value. If you’re planning a move this year, having a local strategy — not just market headlines — will make the biggest difference. Talk With a Local Orange County Agent