Why Buyers and Sellers Face Very Different Conditions Today

Daeniel Raymundo
Oct 2
2 min read

Mojan Shah

There’s a real divide in today’s housing market. In some areas of the country, buyers are finally gaining ground. In others, sellers still hold the advantage. What side you’re on depends entirely on where you live — and even more so, on your specific neighborhood.

Inventory Sets the Stage

Across the U.S., the number of homes for sale has improved overall. But how much growth we’ve seen looks very different depending on location. And that difference is what shapes who has the leverage today.

In markets with more inventory, buyers have more options and more negotiating power.
In markets where inventory is still low, sellers are more likely to sell quickly, often with fewer concessions.

Here in Southern California, certain areas of Los Angeles and Orange County have seen more listings come to market, giving buyers a little more breathing room. But in communities with limited inventory — like some parts of Laguna Niguel or Aliso Viejo — sellers still benefit from stronger competition among buyers.

Prices Follow Inventory

Prices tend to move right alongside inventory.

Where inventory has increased, prices have flattened or even started to come down slightly. That helps buyers who may have felt squeezed out in recent years.
Where inventory is still tight, prices are rising. Sellers in these areas may still see multiple offers and competitive bidding.

This is why one city in Orange County may be experiencing a price slowdown while another nearby neighborhood is still breaking records.

Time on Market Tells the Same Story

Another factor to watch is how long homes are staying on the market.

More inventory = longer time on market. Buyers get more time to shop and compare, which can put pressure on sellers to adjust expectations.
Less inventory = faster sales. Homes in these areas may still move quickly, and buyers need to act fast to compete.

In Southern California, some properties are selling within days, while others sit for weeks. It all depends on the balance between supply and demand in that exact pocket of the market.

Why Local Expertise Matters More Than Ever

The bottom line: the housing market is divided, and broad state-level data only tells part of the story. What really matters is what’s happening in your neighborhood, on your street, and in your price range.

That’s where a local expert comes in. As your agent, I track the numbers and trends across Los Angeles and Orange County every single week — so whether you’re buying or selling, you’ll know exactly what side of the market you’re on and how to position yourself for success.

Bottom Line

If you’re wondering what today’s conditions mean for you, let’s connect. We’ll walk through the numbers in your neighborhood and talk about the right strategy for your next move.