71. 2026 Q1 Market Update

Normally, in California real estate typically appreciates by an average of 4% every year. We haven’t had a normal market since the pandemic though. In this episode of The Real Story with Adam and Sherry we rewind to the beginning, to provide an overview of real estate trends and specific market conditions in Contra Costa County. Where is the beginning? Did you guess 2020? During the pandemic home values went up into the double digits. However, in the last 3 years we’ve had a negative 3-5% in home values. 2026 Q1 700 homes went into contract in our 10 featured cities (Alamo, Moraga, Orinda, Lafayette, Danville, Concord, Clayton, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Martinez) which is still below the 10-year average of 900. The median sales price is $1.65 million vs $1.19 million in 2019. This represents a slightly flat market, which we think will continue. What’s affecting the market? Interest rates. High rates, combined with the fact that many homeowners locked in 3% rates during the pandemic, have created a ‘locked-in’ effect where homeowners are hesitant to sell unless necessary. Listen as we outline our predictions for the rest of the year. If you live, invest, or are simply watching the market — this is the data you need to hear.Adam Hamalian and Sherry Hutchens are real estate brokers (REALTORS) working in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties in the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area. Join us as we discuss the interesting and complicated world of real estate through engaging stories, humor, and expert insights. Over the past few months, Sherry & Adam have been producing a podcast that aims to both educate and entertain our clients and colleagues. Each episode explores some aspect of residential real estate or features interviews with seasoned professionals, where we uncover their unique experiences and valuable lessons. Whether you’re a curious homeowner or an experienced agent, there’s something for everyone. Follow The Real Story with Adam Hamalian & Sherry Hutchens on• Youtube: @HutchensHamalianProperties• Website: https://www.hutchenshamalian.com• Instagram: @HutchensHamalianProperties• Facebook: @HutchensHamalianProperties• LinkedIn: @HutchensHamalianProperties Adam Hamalian: [email protected] Hutchens: [email protected] For past episodes or to subscribe to this podcast, click here. Or find us on Apple or Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Hutchens Hamalian Properties GroupDudum Real Estate GroupDRE #01320608 | DRE #01917597 | DRE #01882902 #HutchensHamalian #EastBayRealEstate #BayAreaRealEstate #AccountabilityPartners #RealEstate #LoveWhereYouLive #ListingAgents #BuyersAgents #HomeSweetHome #RealEstateTeam #2026RealEstate #TheRealStoryPodcast #BecomingBetterAgents #AdamandSherry #HomeownershipJourney #PodcastSeason3 #Season3Premiere #Affordability #MarketUpdate #2026QuarterOne #RealEstateMarketUpdate #CCC #CaliforniaRealEstate #MarketUpdate2026LEGAL: This podcast is for general informational purposes only. The hosts’ and guests’ views, thoughts, and opinions represent those of the hosts/guests and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information. ©Hutchens Hamalian Properties Group