Richard Wamsat’s Real Estate News & Views

Local market updates, buyer and seller tips, and homeowner resources for Orange County and Irvine.

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Child holding hands and walking in winter clothes

Buying a Home This Winter in Irvine: Motivated Sellers, Less Competition, and Smarter Inspections (Lake Forest & Mission Viejo Too)

By Richard Wamsat | Dec 13, 2025

Winter home buying in Irvine can be a practical move for renters and relocation buyers who want a calmer search and cleaner timelines. This post breaks down local leverage signals, when negotiation is more realistic, why attached homes often lead under $1M shortlists, and what to look for during inspections after rain.

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Crash or Reset in 2026

Crash or “Great Housing Reset”? What 2026 Could Really Look Like for Orange County and Irvine

By Richard Wamsat | Dec 8, 2025

The Orange County and Irvine housing market 2026 is more likely to see a slow “Great Housing Reset” than a crash. Explore what a cooler, fairer market could mean for Irvine buyers, sellers, and homeowners planning their next move.

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Family moving with moving boxes

Feeling Stuck in Your Low Mortgage Rate?

By Richard Wamsat | Dec 4, 2025

Orange County home sellers with ultra-low mortgage rates often feel stuck, even when their homes no longer fit their lives. This post walks through local data, equity, and lifestyle questions to help you decide whether moving up in OC makes sense.

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Single story home with grass front yard

How To Find A Great Deal On A Home In Orange County Right Now

By Richard Wamsat | Dec 3, 2025

Want to find the best deal on a home right now? The secret is targeting listings that have been sitting on the market, where sellers are often more flexible and open to negotiation. Learn how to work with your agent to spot price cuts, identify motivated sellers, and use smart tactics to save thousands while still getting the home you love.

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Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 26, 2025

Homeownership builds equity and compounds appreciation over time. Renting may look cheaper month-to-month, but it creates no wealth. Historically, long-term owners grow net worth faster than renters, even after taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

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Hillside neighborhood

The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner Going into 2026

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 17, 2025

The housing market is turning a corner for 2026. Rates are easing, more sellers are listing, and buyer demand is rebounding, laying groundwork for 2026 growth.

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Home Prices Aren’t Declining, But Headlines Might Make You Think They Are

By Richard Wamsat | Jun 12, 2024

Wondering why headlines about home price drops are misleading? Discover the truth behind recent real estate trends. While more homes are reducing their asking prices, overall home values continue to rise. Learn the difference between asking prices and sold prices, and understand how market adjustments are benefiting both buyers and sellers. Stay informed about the current housing market and make confident real estate decisions.

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The Spring Market Is a Sweet Spot if You’re Looking To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Richard Wamsat | Mar 8, 2024

Some Highlights Wondering if now’s a good time to sell your house? Based on how many homes are on the market, there are two big reasons why this spring is looking so good for sellers. Thanks to an uptick in inventory over last year, you’ve got more options for your next home. But there are still fewer homes for sale […]

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Will a Silver Tsunami Change the 2024 Housing Market in Orange County?

By Richard Wamsat | Jan 29, 2024

Have you ever heard the term “Silver Tsunami” and wondered what it’s all about? If so, that might be because there’s been lot of talk about it online recently. Let’s dive into what it is and why it won’t drastically impact the housing market. What Does Silver Tsunami Mean? A recent article from HousingWire calls it: “. . . […]

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