Orange County Housing Market Update 3rd Quarter 2025

Curious how the Orange County housing market is really doing? Here’s a quick look at what happened in the third quarter of 2025 and what it means for both buyers and sellers. Orange County Housing Market Update 3rd Quarter 2025

Market Highlights

📌 Homes are taking longer to sell. Average days on market climbed to 40 — up more than 54% from last year.
📌 Fewer new listings hit the market. Inventory dropped nearly 5%, keeping options tight for buyers.
📌 Prices are holding steady. The median sales price rose slightly to $1.38M, with price per square foot at $814.
📌 Sales activity stayed strong. Over 3,500 homes sold, pushing total volume to more than $6.5 billion.
📌 Expired listings are on the rise. Many sellers priced above market value and held firm — creating opportunities for buyers who recognize realistic pricing.

Headlines of Note

• Investor-owned homes now make up about 19% of California’s housing stock, according to The Guardian, with ownership concentration contributing to tight inventory in urban and coastal counties like Orange County.

• Inventory is slowly rising, especially for condos and townhomes, signaling a shift toward a more balanced market. (Norada Real Estate)

• More buyers are turning to First Team’s off-market database to find their next home before public listings go live. (DMRE)

Why the 4th Quarter of 2025 Could Be the Best Time for Buyers

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the right time to buy, the final quarter of 2025 might be your moment.

Here’s why:

📌 Motivated sellers. Homes that didn’t sell over summer are still on the market — and many sellers are more open to negotiating before year-end.

📌 Less competition. Fall and winter see fewer active buyers, meaning less pressure and more breathing room when making offers.

📌 Softer pricing on stale listings. Expired and re-listed homes often come back at more realistic prices, giving buyers a chance to find value.

📌 Stabilizing interest rates. After months of volatility, rates are leveling off — improving affordability for well-qualified buyers.

📌 Off-market opportunities. Through First Team’s Sneak Preview program, buyers can access exclusive listings before they hit the public market.

For buyers who are ready, Q4 2025 could offer the perfect combination of selection, motivation, and negotiation leverage. If that’s you, reach out ASAP!

Orange County Housing Market Update 3rd Quarter 2025

Orange County Housing Market Update 3rd Quarter 2025