Costa Mesa Real Estate Update: The Holiday Market Has Arrived
The holidays are here in Costa Mesa! The Halloween decorations are packed away, Starbucks has rolled out its red cups, and homes are lighting up for the festive season. Just like that, the real estate market is also shifting into its quietest time of year — the Holiday Market. This is the season when both buyers and sellers take a little break to enjoy family, food, and festivities, and the Orange County housing market slows down before picking up again in the new year.
Right now, the number of homes for sale in Orange County has dropped to about 4,100, down 19% from summer’s peak. That’s normal for this time of year — fewer homeowners want to move during the holidays, and some take their listings off the market to relax before trying again next year. On the buyer side, demand has also dipped slightly, with 1,487 pending sales, almost the same as last year. But because both supply and demand are slowing at the same time, the Expected Market Time — how long it takes to sell a home — is holding steady at around 83 days, showing a balanced, steady pace.
Even though things are quieter, this isn’t a bad time for buyers or sellers. Mortgage rates are hovering near 6.3%, which is lower than last year’s 7%, and that’s helping keep the market stable. Sellers who stay active through the holidays often face less competition, while serious buyers may find great opportunities before inventory picks up again in January.
So as Costa Mesa settles into the season of twinkling lights and cozy nights, the local housing market is doing the same — calm, steady, and waiting for a fresh start in 2026. Whether you’re planning to buy or sell, now’s a great time to prepare for what’s next in the ever-evolving Orange County real estate market.
