Ventura County Market Update – February 2026
What’s Happening Right Now in Our Local Real Estate Market
If you’re wondering what the Ventura County real estate market looks like today, you’re not alone. Buyers, sellers, and homeowners are all asking the same question:
“Is now a good time to make a move?”
The answer depends on your goals—but one thing is clear: our market is shifting into a more balanced and opportunity-filled season.
Here’s what I’m seeing on the ground right now across Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oxnard, and Ventura.
Inventory is finally opening up.
After several years of extremely tight housing supply, Ventura County is beginning to see more homes coming on the market.
More inventory means, more choices for buyers and less pressure to make rushed decisions. More realistic expectations on both sides.
This doesn’t mean we’ve suddenly turned into a buyer’s market. Well-priced, well-presented homes are still selling quickly, buyers now have the ability to be more thoughtful instead of feeling forced into bidding wars.
For sellers, the message is simple:
Preparation and pricing matter more than ever.
Home Prices Are Holding Steady.
Despite national headlines, Ventura County continues to be one of the most stable real estate markets in Southern California. Right now we are seeing:
Prices leveling off rather than dropping. Normal seasonal softening
Strong demand in desirable neighborhoods and school districts.
Luxury communities such as Spanish Hills, Santa Rosa Valley, and Westlake Village continue to perform very well, while entry-level and move-up homes remain in high demand.
The market today is best described as balanced and healthy—not overheated, but certainly not declining.
Interest Rates Are Shaping Buyer Behavior.
Interest rates continue to be a major topic in 2026.
While rates are higher than the historic lows of past years, buyers are adjusting and finding smart ways to make deals work, including:
Seller credits,
Temporary rate buy-downs,
Creative financing options,
Instead of waiting for “perfect rates,” serious buyers are focusing on finding the right home and negotiating favorable terms.
The result is steady demand and consistent activity throughout Ventura County.
What This Means for Sellers
If you’re thinking about selling this spring, here are the most important things to keep in mind:
Price your home based on today’s market, not last year!
Presentation matters – staging and curb appeal make a huge difference
Strategic marketing is essential
Be prepared for inspections and negotiations,
Homes that are priced correctly and show beautifully are still selling fast and often with strong offers.
But the days of simply putting up a sign and expecting top dollar are gone. For buyers, today’s market offers real advantages:
More homes to choose from
More negotiating power
Less emotional pressure
Better opportunities to secure favorable terms
You don’t have to waive every contingency anymore. You can buy smart, with confidence—and with the right guidance, you can still secure a fantastic home at a fair price.
Looking Ahead to Spring
As we move into March and April, I expect:
More listings to hit the market.
Increased buyer activity.
A steady, balanced environment.
Ventura County remains one of the most desirable places to live in Southern California. Strong schools, beautiful weather, coastal lifestyle, and amazing communities continue to attract buyers from both inside and outside the area.
Thinking of Making a Move?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about your home’s current value, it’s important to have up-to-date, local information—not national headlines.
I’m always happy to provide a complimentary, no-obligation market snapshot for your specific neighborhood.
Let’s talk about your goals and create a strategy that works for you. Who you work with matters more than ever.
Dream Big… Believe Big… Expect the Impossible. I do!
Robbie Starr Realtor
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