The Calm Before the Market Storm? What’s Brewing in Contra Costa Real Estate

If you’ve been watching the housing market here in the East Bay, especially in Contra Costa County, you may be sensing a shift.

Mortgage rates have crept back up, now averaging 6.781% for a 30 year fixed loan. For many buyers, that’s cause for concern. But the full story? It’s more layered than you might expect, and if you play it right, it could work in your favor.

Let’s take a deeper look at what’s really happening and how you can move strategically, whether you're buying or selling.

Prices Dip as Rates Rise

The San Francisco metro area, which includes parts of Contra Costa, has seen a slight price drop — around $20,000 — bringing the median home price down to $1.12 million.

In contrast, San Jose's prices remain steady, but here in the East Bay, we’re seeing signs of a market adjusting. This correction, paired with rising inventory, could spark new activity, especially if rates decline again later this year.

📍 Spotlight on Contra Costa County

From Antioch and Brentwood to Walnut Creek, Martinez, and El Cerrito, we’re seeing:

• More listings hitting the market

• Homes taking longer to sell

• Sellers open to negotiating on price and terms

Buyers are cautiously reentering the market, and those who understand how to leverage this shift are already gaining an edge.

Buyers: Why This Might Be Your Window

Yes, interest rates are higher, but you’re not facing the aggressive bidding wars we saw in 2021 or 2022. That means:

• More room to negotiate on price

• Less pressure to waive contingencies

• Increased inventory to choose from

• Potential seller incentives like rate buydowns or credit for closing costs

And remember, rates can always be refinanced later. But home prices are harder to rewind if they start climbing again.

Sellers: This Is Your Moment to Be Strategic

You may not be getting 10 offers in a weekend anymore, but that doesn’t mean you can’t win.

If you’ve built up equity and are planning to downsize, upgrade, or relocate, you’re still in a strong position, especially if your home is priced and marketed correctly.

What works now:

• Professional staging and standout photos

• Realistic pricing based on recent sold data

• A strong online and offline marketing strategy tailored to East Bay buyers

The market is more balanced than it has been in years, and that can work to your advantage.

🎯 Strategy Over Timing

Trying to time the market is always a gamble. But creating a smart strategy is how you win, whether you're buying your first home, selling a longtime property, or planning a move in the next few months.

This current calm in the market could be the perfect storm of opportunity, but only if you act with intention.

Let’s Make a Game Plan

Whether you're feeling ready to move or just exploring what’s possible, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your budget, goals, and timeline without pressure.

📞 Schedule your strategy session.
I’ll walk through your options and help make a confident plan to move forward.