Orange County Real Estate Blog

Straight answers from Dar Mardan, Realtor® + CPA, on selling, buying, taxes, Prop 19 and downsizing in Newport Beach, Irvine and across Orange County.

Preparing Your Orange County Home for Sale: The 8-Week Plan

How far ahead should you start preparing an Orange County home for sale? About 8 weeks. That is enough time to line up repairs on your schedule instead of a buyer's, clear decades of belongings without rushing, and assemble California's seller disclosure packet before the first showing rather than i

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How Interest Rates Are Shaping Orange County Home Prices in 2026

Photo: Derek Liang on Unsplash How are interest rates affecting Orange County home prices in 2026?Higher rates have raised monthly payments in Orange County, California, but prices have held up because low-rate owners are staying put and inventory remains tight. The August 2026 median was up 4.9% fr

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Newport Beach Real Estate at Marriage Milestones

Marriage is one of the top triggers for buying or upgrading a home, and Newport Beach's 2026 market rewards couples who combine finances strategically. With a median sold price around $3.28M and most homes closing below list, prepared buyers can negotiate meaningfully in this high-value coastal mark

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