Roadmap with Irina - January 2026

Single-family homes in Santa Clara County remained stable through December. The median sales price held at $1.8 million, unchanged from last year and up from 2023, reflecting continued price strength despite quieter market activity. There were 505 closed sales, down from last year, which aligns with normal holiday season trends. Homes averaged 29 days on market, slightly longer than in prior years, but sellers still received 103% of list price, indicating competitive demand for well-priced homes. Inventory stayed tight at 1.1 months of supply, and 553 new listings came to market, keeping the single-family segment firmly seller-leaning.

The condo and townhome market showed steadier, more balanced conditions. The median sales price dipped to $920,000, down from last year but higher than 2023 levels. A total of 239 units closed, reflecting modest activity for the season. Homes in this segment averaged 39 days on market, and inventory rose to 2.1 months, giving buyers more flexibility and negotiating room. New listings increased to 495, supporting the slower, more deliberate pace in this portion of the market.

Overall, Santa Clara County’s real estate market closed out 2025 on a stable footing. Single-family homes continue to benefit from low inventory and steady pricing, even as activity slows seasonally. Condos and townhomes remain more balanced, offering buyers greater choice and less urgency.

As of today, there are 1,269 homes for sale in Santa Clara County, including 353 homes that are getting ready for the open market. If you are looking to buy and cannot find the right house, let me know, maybe we will find it among those that are coming soon. As we head into the new year, understanding the market can help you plan strategically, whether you’re preparing to buy, sell, or simply watch the market.

It looks like 2026 will be full of big and small personal celebrations, and one of the most significant events will be my birthday soon.

When I was a kid and a young adult, I didn’t like my birthdays. Maybe I had unrealistically high expectations for gifts at a young age, and later, harsh Siberian weather made it impossible to get flowers in January, so I stopped expecting anything from this day for a long time. A few times I was pleasantly surprised by my family and friends, but overall, I tried to ignore it and treat it as an ordinary day.   

When I turned 40, I was devastated. It felt like half of my life had already gone, and every day from that moment on would only bring me closer to the end. I had my kids, a home, a great family and wonderful friends, but something was missing. I was probably going through a midlife crisis trying to find meaning in everyday existence and figure out if there is something existing ahead of me. Interestingly, I had always considered myself as an optimist and cheerleader for people around me, but at that time, I wasn’t in my best mood and shape.

Then I found something that ignited me again. My kids were older, and I had more time and too much energy to keep just to myself, so I started a new career. That decision scared the heck out of me, but it brought me back to my younger self: outgoing, optimistic, social, caring, resourceful, etc.  I met so many wonderful people, read inspirational books, visited different countries and fulfilled some of my big and small dreams! I finally allowed myself to get rid of everything that didn’t bring me joy. If every day matters, why keep wrong habits, unnecessary things, or even certain people in my life? Now I choose very carefully where, how, and with whom I spend my time. So if you, my friend, are in my close circle, you are there for a reason, and I appreciate you very much.   

Now I am turning 50, and according to my previous experience, I should feel even worse than I did 10 years ago, but I don’t! Knowing that every day counts, I try to make the most of each one and be thankful for the life I’ve lived so far. I stopped fighting my surroundings and learned to accept them. It is stupid to fight age! We all inevitably get older. So instead, I choose to focus on the things I can control and let go of the things I cannot. I will do my best to stay healthy and active so I can live longer and happier. The rest is in God’s hands.

So, buckle up, Irina! You are only 50, and your bucket list is still long. Time to live my best life ever!

Love you all!
Irina

P.S. The photo is from last year, so you didn't miss anything. Cheers!