Call/text George Lorimer at 619-846-1244 for a 10-minute buying or selling strategy session.

Quick Look at the California Forecast (2026)

C.A.R. projects a steady, modestly improving market—not a crash and not an explosive boom. Key 2026 expectations:

• Sales volume: Up to 274,400 homes sold statewide (+2%).
• Median price: Projected to rise to $905,000 (+3.6%).
• Affordability: Improving slightly from 17% to 18%.
• Interest rates: Dropping from the mid-6% range in 2025 to around 6.0% in 2026.
  
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Bottom line: the state expects a gentle rise in prices, more willing buyers as rates ease, and a slow return to normal transaction volumes.

What This Means for San Diego

San Diego continues to run above state averages. While many neighborhoods saw slight price dips over the past year and longer days on market, demand remains strong enough to keep values stable.

San Diego is likely to track with the statewide forecast: modest appreciation, improving affordability, and slightly more inventory as mortgage rates ease.

Where Smart Buyers Can Win in 2025–2026

• Buy before appreciation returns. A 3–4% rise in prices means waiting = paying more later.
• Rates dipping closer to 6% unlock more homes. Many sellers have been frozen; lower rates bring them off the sidelines.
• Condo opportunities. Some 2022–2023 buyers are under pressure, creating room for negotiation.
• Adjacent neighborhood bargains. “Hot” zip codes push buyers to nearby areas with lower prices but similar amenities.
• Off-market inventory. Many great deals never hit the MLS. I can connect you with these before other buyers see them.

Want to see what’s available off-market? Call/text 619-846-1244 and tell me your ideal monthly payment and move-in timeline.

Seller Opportunities: Why 2025–2026 Is Still Strong for You

• Prices remain near record highs. Even modest appreciation keeps your equity strong.
• More qualified buyers coming back. As rates ease, your buyer pool grows.
• Move-up sellers finally have options again. Buy-before-you-sell and trade-in programs solve the low-rate “lock-in” problem.
• But pricing strategy matters. Homes that are not positioned correctly sit. Those that are priced right still sell fast.

The biggest mistake sellers make now: waiting for the “perfect” rate or price and watching more competition enter the market.

Curious about your equity and timing? Call/text 619-846-1244 for a no-pressure strategy call.

Bottom Line

California is projecting price growth, increased sales, and easing interest rates by 2026. San Diego follows the same pattern—just at our usual premium pricing.

If you're planning to buy or sell, the next 1–6 months offer real opportunities—as long as you go in with a plan.

Call/text George Lorimer at 619-846-1244 for a 10-minute buying or selling strategy session.

Forecasts are projections, not guarantees. Always consult with a real estate and tax professional for specific advice.