Orange County is entering an exciting new chapter in its real estate story.
According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of REALTORS®, existing-home sales are expected to rise by 14% in 2026. This growth will be especially impactful in coastal markets like Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, Newport Coast, San Clemente, Costa Mesa, and Irvine, where luxury lifestyle, ocean proximity, and limited supply continue to drive demand.
For luxury buyers, global relocators, and Orange County homeowners preparing for their next move, this forecast signals a more promising, more active market ahead.
Market Stability + Improving Affordability
Yun attributes the projected surge in sales to gradually easing mortgage rates, strong job growth, and improving financial confidence among buyers. Mortgage rates are expected to average around 6% in 2026—not the dramatic drop some hoped for, but enough to unlock increased activity. Even a modest decline helps buyers regain affordability, especially in higher-priced markets throughout Orange County.
Home prices nationwide are forecast to increase by about 4% next year. In Orange County, that growth may be even stronger thanks to continued buyer demand, limited new construction, and the consistent appeal of high-end properties across Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Corona del Mar.
What Today’s Buyers Are Looking For
Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist, shared insights from the 2025 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers. Several trends stand out:
- Repeat buyers, with a typical age of 62, are prioritizing lifestyle, convenience, and proximity to family—making areas like Irvine, Newport Coast, and Dana Point especially appealing.
- The number one reason people move today is to be closer to friends and relatives, often described as the “grandbaby effect.”
- First-time buyers face significant challenges due to high prices, high rent, and student loan debt, with the median first-time buyer age now at 40.
- Demand for turn-key, low-maintenance homes continues to rise, especially among luxury lifestyle buyers relocating from other states or upgrading within coastal communities.
Even with affordability challenges, the use of real estate agents remains high. Lautz noted that 88% of buyers and 91% of sellers relied on an agent for pricing, negotiation, and navigating a shifting market.
Why Expert Guidance Matters in 2026
Selling or purchasing a home in a market as competitive and nuanced as Orange County requires local expertise. Neighborhoods like Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and San Clemente each have their own micro-markets, buyer pools, and pricing patterns. A strategic agent helps sellers price accurately and helps buyers move confidently in markets where desirable homes often see strong competition.
Surterre Properties’ network of trusted specialists provides deep neighborhood knowledge, elevated marketing, and the high-touch service today’s luxury buyers expect.
Bottom Line
The outlook for 2026 is strong. With sales projected to rise, mortgage rates improving, and lifestyle-driven moves increasing nationwide, Orange County is positioned for one of its most active years yet.
If you are considering a move in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, Irvine, Newport Coast, San Clemente, or any Orange County community, now is the time to plan your next step. Connect with your local Surterre Properties specialists at SurterreProperties.com and make your next move with Orange County’s leading luxury real estate experts. You can also explore our exclusive listings now!
