Your Year-End Real Estate Playbook: Smart Moves for Orange County Homeowners Before 2026
Fall is strategy season for OC Homeowners, Investors and Buyers. Keep reading for seasoned advice on positioning yourself to win in Real Estate in 2026.
Summer temps are still here, but the school year is well underway, and the holiday rush is about to hit. This stretch of Fall remains a sweet spot for real estate strategy and with nearly a month between Halloween and Thanksgiving this year, you have a moment to plan moves before the market wakes up from its holiday hibernation in January and early February.
Thankfully, we’ve got some good news! Mortgage rates have dipped into more favourable territory following another rate drop at the Fed this week. The weekly average 30-year fixed rate from Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) fell to 6.37 % for the week ending October 10, 2025, down from about 6.43 % a few weeks prior. Trading Economics And according to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the average rate dropped to 6.19 % as of October 23, 2025. A one-year low. YCharts Lower rates mean more qualified buyers and a better environment to act before 2026 competition ramps back up.
Here’s how to use this season to your advantage:
If You’re Thinking of Selling: Prep Now, Win Later
Homes that hit the market in early spring often get the first wave of serious buyers — but they’re also competing with many other newly listed homes. Starting your prep now means you can launch polished and ready when others are still scrambling post-holidays.
Use November to knock out smart, budget-friendly updates: fresh paint, hardware swaps, lighting upgrades, and maybe a landscape refresh. These are the changes that make buyers say “yes” faster and a total remodel isn’t required.
DM us to request our “Top Budget-Friendly Updates That Get Big Returns” checklist to get a jump-start on your list.
If You’re Planning to Buy: Less Competition, More Negotiation
Fall buyers often face fewer bidding wars. With longer market time and less frenzy, you can shop with a little more breathing room. And with rates easing back into the low-6 % range, it’s worth getting pre-approved now. Small shifts in interest rates make a big difference at Orange County price points, and you’ll be ready to act quickly if the right house shows up.
If You’re Considering a Move Out of California
Many Orange County homeowners are exploring moves to states where cost of living, taxes or insurance might be lower. If that’s you, plan early. Timing your sale, transferring equity, and understanding the destination market are all critical steps.
We have trusted partners across the country. So, if you’re exploring a relocation, reach out and we’ll connect you with a vetted realtor in your destination city to make your transition as easy as possible.
Make November Count
This isn’t just “waiting” season; it’s strategy season. Rates are trending in a more friendly direction, buyers are re-engaging, and serious sellers can get a head-start on 2026.
Whether you’re staying local or looking to make a bigger move, we’re here to help you plan smart, act at the right moment, and get the most out of your next chapter. Contact us today to start the conversation.