This Week’s Market Minute – Orange County
February 16, 2026
Here’s What’s Happening
Days on market rose to 51, up 24% from last year
Buyers have over a week more to negotiate and make decisions
Even hotspots like Irvine and Laguna Niguel are seeing homes sit longer
Agent Script
Orange County homes are taking longer to sell — and that shift matters.
In August, the median days on market rose to 51 — up from 43 a year ago. That’s a 24% increase, giving buyers more time to decide, negotiate, and get creative with offers.
This cooling signals a new playbook. Sellers can’t count on instant bidding wars, and buyers no longer need to rush in above list price on day one. The balance of power is shifting.
If you’re planning to buy or sell in Orange County, it’s important to adjust your strategy. Reach out and I’ll help you make the most of today’s market conditions.
Rewrite this script in my own voice, using:
My hyperlocal market stats → (pick 2–3)
Example: “In [CITY/ZIP], the median list price is $[XXX], homes are taking [XX] days to sell.”
My personal tone →
Example: “I like to keep it casual and approachable” / “I prefer sounding professional and data-driven.”
Subject Line:
Why buyers suddenly have more time
Body:
Hi [First Name],
Orange County homes are taking longer to sell than they used to — and that shift matters.
In August, the median days on market rose to 51, up from 43 last year — a 24% increase. Buyers now have over a week more to make decisions, negotiate, and get creative with offers.
What this means for you:
Sellers: Pricing with strategy, not aspiration, is critical. Even in hotspots like Irvine and Laguna Niguel, overpriced homes can sit for months.
Buyers: Slower sales give you leverage to ask for credits, inspections, and repairs.
If you’re considering buying or selling in Orange County, let’s talk about how to adjust your strategy.
📊 The Orange County Market Report: Latest Update
If you’ve noticed “For Sale” signs staying up longer, you aren’t imagining it.
We are tracking a clear shift in market velocity across the county. Median days on market have jumped to 51 days, a 24% increase from last year’s 43 days. Even perennial hotspots like Irvine and Laguna Niguel are seeing homes sit longer.
The key takeaway? The frenzy is fading. This shift gives buyers over a week of extra time to make decisions and negotiate, while sellers need to focus on strategy rather than speed.
Check the chart above to see the year-over-year comparison. 👇
Have questions about your specific neighborhood’s value? Drop a comment below or send me a message.
— 👤 [Your Name] 🪪 DRE # [Insert Number] 🏡 [Brokerage Name]
#OrangeCountyRealEstate #IrvineRealEstate #LagunaNiguel #MarketUpdate #OCRealEstate
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