Looking Ahead: What Will Shape the LA & Ventura Housing Market in 2026?

As 2025 winds down, many buyers and sellers across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties are asking the same question: what will the housing market look like in 2026? While nobody has a crystal ball, trends are already emerging that give us a clear direction of where the market may head.

1. Mortgage Rates Could Finally Stabilize
After years of volatility, industry experts expect interest rates to level out in 2026. If stabilization holds, buyers who were hesitant in 2025 may re-enter the market, creating stronger demand across the LA and Ventura corridor.

2. Inventory Will Still Be Tight
Even with new construction projects, our region continues to face limited housing supply. In popular communities like Calabasas, Westlake Village, and Thousand Oaks, competition will likely remain strong. Sellers who price correctly will continue to have an advantage.

3. Lifestyle and Location Will Drive Choices
More buyers are prioritizing lifestyle—walkable neighborhoods, proximity to work-from-home amenities, and access to outdoor spaces. Ventura County, with its balance of affordability and coastal living, is becoming increasingly attractive for buyers leaving the LA core.

4. Sustainable Homes Are Gaining Value
Expect “green” features—solar panels, EV charging stations, and energy-efficient designs—to continue adding resale value. Luxury buyers in Hidden Hills, Agoura, and West Hills are leading the demand for eco-smart estates.

5. Insurance Costs Will Remain a Factor
Rising home insurance premiums, especially in hillside and high-fire-risk areas, will shape buyer decisions. Sellers who can show proactive mitigation efforts (like hardscape, fire-resistant roofing, and cleared defensible space) will stand out.

6. Tech-Savvy Buyers Will Dominate
From virtual tours to AI-driven property searches, 2026 will see an even greater reliance on technology in real estate. Buyers expect instant access to data, transparency in transactions, and a seamless digital experience. Agents who embrace this shift will deliver the most value.

7. Affordability Will Push Boundaries
As affordability challenges persist in the LA core, buyers will continue expanding their search into the Ventura corridor. Communities like Camarillo and Simi Valley may see increased demand, especially among first-time buyers and families looking for more space.

Bottom Line
The 2026 housing market in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties will be defined by stabilized rates, persistent inventory challenges, and lifestyle-driven decision-making. Sustainable homes and tech-forward real estate practices will shape the way we buy and sell. Sellers who prepare strategically and buyers who stay informed will both find opportunities in this evolving market.

If you’re considering buying or selling in 2026, now is the time to start planning. With over 30 years of experience helping clients succeed in the LA and Ventura market, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Call me directly at 818.266.1100 for a consultation.

— Anthony Guetzoian
Broker/Owner, Century 21 Valley Properties