Spring 2026 Housing Market Update for North Orange County
January numbers may look softer on paper, but neighborhood-level activity, tight inventory, and rising buyer traffic suggest a competitive spring ahead.
Spring is almost here, and while January data might look soft on the surface, the story beneath the numbers is much more dynamic.
The Headline That Matters
A Fullerton listing recently attracted over 300 visitors in one weekend, resulting in 13 offers and closing nearly $500,000 above asking price. That's not a soft market — that's a market with pent-up demand waiting for the right homes.
Inventory Remains Historically Low
| City | Months of Supply |
|---|---|
| Fullerton | 1.4 months |
| Yorba Linda | 2.1 months |
| Brea | 1.7 months |
These are well below the 6-month mark that indicates a balanced market. We are firmly in seller's market territory.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
Historical data shows that peak pricing in our area typically occurs around May-June:
- June 2025 Fullerton Median: $1.25 million
- January 2025 Fullerton Median: $1.1 million
That's a $150,000 difference driven purely by seasonal demand.
Recommended Timeline for Sellers
- February: Begin strategy discussions with your agent
- March: Complete home preparations — staging, repairs, photography
- Late March/Early April: Launch on the market to capture the spring wave
For Buyers
The window of reduced competition is closing. If you've been waiting, January and February offer your best shot at negotiating favorable terms before the spring rush intensifies.
Contact Our Team
- Philip Kang: (714) 451-4543 | phil@homereadyteam.com
- Caroline Lee: (213) 505-5141 | caroline@homereadyteam.com