Blog - Stovall Team, Fountain Valley, CA, Real Estate

Buying a Home? Let’s Start Now. Call Stovall Team Today 714.343.9294

By Tarah Stovall | Published: February 5, 2026

If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see:

Mortgage rates drop a little more.
More homes hit the market.

But here’s what most buyers don’t realize. Buying just a few weeks earlier could mean paying less, dealing with less stress, and feeling less rushed.

Here are three reasons why accelerating your timeline over the next few weeks could actually be a better play.

1. Holding Out for Lower Rates May Not Pay Off

A lot of buyers are hoping mortgage rates will fall even further. But that’s not the best strategy. Here’s why. Experts are pretty aligned on this: rates are expected to stay roughly where they are.

Forecasts throughout the industry all point to the same thing: rates are projected to be in the low-6% range this year (see graph below):

That’s not a bad thing, especially if you consider how much rates have already come down. Over the past 12 months, they’ve dropped roughly a full percentage point. And for many buyers, that means affordability has already improved more than they may realize.

So why wait a few more weeks just for more buyers to jump in and act as your competition? You already have a window right now. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economics Research at Redfin, explains:

“House hunters should know that this may be near the lowest mortgage rates fall for the foreseeable future.”

2. Spring Means More Competition + More Stress

Speaking of competition, the spring market is popular for a reason, but with popularity comes pressure. With more buyers active at that time of year, you’ll have to move faster once you find a home you like. And no one likes feeling rushed.

But buy now and you have more time to browse. Fewer people are looking, so homes sit longer.

You can see this play out in the data from Realtor.com (see graph below). In winter months, it takes an average of about 70 days for a home to sell. In spring? That drops to about 50 days. That’s a 20-day swing – and that pace is going to be more stressful.

Homes sell faster in the spring, and slower in the winter. And that can be a worthwhile perk for buyers who want to get ahead before their decisions start to feel rushed.

3. Prices Tend To Rise When Competition Heats Up

And here’s something most buyers forget to factor in. Prices usually respond to demand. So, when demand is higher, prices are too. Bankrate explains:

“Spring and early summer are the busiest and most competitive time of year for the real estate market . . . home prices tend to be steeper to reflect the increased demand.”

In fact, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that in 2025, buyers who purchased in the beginning of the year saved roughly $30,000–$35,000 compared to those who bought when prices peaked in the spring or early summer.

And let’s be honest, for a lot of buyers today, every little bit of savings helps. That’s why buying just a few weeks earlier, before prices ramp up, will be better for you and your wallet.

Bottom Line

Buying a few weeks before spring isn’t about rushing. It’s about choosing to be ahead of the curve and knowing you want more leverage, less stress, and meaningful savings.

If you’re ready and able to buy now and want to get the ball rolling, connect with Micah Stovall today 714.343.9294. I can help find you a home today.

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Top Mistakes Homeowners Are Making in 2026 (And How Working with Stovall Team will help you avoid Them)

By Tarah Stovall | Published: January 15, 2026

Let’s be clear: selling your house is absolutely possible right now. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), roughly 11k homes sell every day in this country.

And the sellers who are making their moves happen all have one thing in common: they’ve adjusted their strategy to match today’s market. They’re realizing inventory has grown. Homebuyers are more selective. And buyer expectations are higher.

The sellers who struggle are usually approaching today’s market with yesterday’s expectations. Here are the three biggest mistakes they’re making – and how to avoid them.

1. Pricing Based on What Their Neighbor Got a Few Years Back

Setting your price is the most important decision you make when you sell – and the one that’s most often mishandled. Realtor.com data shows almost 1 out of 5 sellers in 2025 had to drop their price. Here’s what those sellers went wrong.

Buyers have more choice and more negotiating power now that inventory has grown. And house hunters will actively avoid your house is if feels like it’s priced too high. That’s why overpricing usually leads to:

Fewer showings
Less competitive (or lowball) offers
Longer time on market

And all three of those side effects are things you don’t want to deal with.

What To Do Instead: The good news is the cure is simple. Just price for today’s buyer, not yesterday’s headlines. Lean on Stovall Team’s knowledge of recent comparable sales, current competition, and local buyer behavior to land in the value “sweet spot” that drives traffic and urgency from day one.

2. Trying To Skip Repairs That Buyers Now Expect

A few years ago, you could sell as-is and still get well above asking. Today? Not so much. Right now, NAR says two-thirds of sellers are making at least some repairs.

And the reason why is simple. In a market with more inventory, buyers compare homes side by side. Homes that don’t show well (or feel dated) are going to lose attention quickly, even if the issues are minor.

What To Do Instead: Ask Stovall Team which high-impact, low-stress updates they’d recommend for your house. Stovall Team provides andetailed review of your property. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s helping buyers see themselves moving in without a mental to-do list. Small investments in staging, repairs, and curb appeal can make a huge difference in how quickly offers come in – and how strong those offers are.

3. Playing Hardball When Buyers Try To Negotiate

Today’s buyers have housing affordability at the top of their minds. And since money is already tight, they’ll be pickier and will probably ask for some compromises from you. Whether that’s making repairs, giving them a credit at closing, or taking just a few thousand dollars off your asking price, negotiating is normal again.

So, if something pops up in the inspection, you’re going to need to be open to talking about it. If you’re not, you may very well see your buyer walk away. And some sellers are figuring this out the hard way. Odds are those homeowners weren’t willing to flex a bit to get the deal done.

What to Do Instead: Meet with Stovall Team to make sure you understand what buyers in your area care the most about. Align your price with value, present the home clearly and confidently, and stay open to reasonable negotiations that keep deals moving forward.

Bottom Line

The sellers who succeed in this market aren’t doing anything extreme. They’re pricing their house right, making strategic repairs, getting local guidance, and making decisions based on how buyers actually behave today. Those small but mighty mindset shifts could make or break your sale.

Want a real plan tailored to your home and your neighborhood? Talk to Stovall Team today, 714.343.9294

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Thinking about Selling Your House As Is? Read This First.

By Tarah Stovall | Published: January 3, 2026

f you’re thinking about selling your house this year, you may be torn between two options:

Do you sell it as-is and make it easier on yourself? No repairs. No effort.
Or do you fix it up a bit first – so it shows well and sells for as much as possible?

In 2026, that decision matters more than it used to. Here’s what you need to know.

More Competition Means Your Home’s Condition Is More Important Again

Over the past year, the number of homes for sale has been climbing. And this year, a Realtor.com forecast says it could go up another 8.9%. That matters. As buyers gain more options, they also re-gain the ability to be selective. So, the details are starting to count again.

That’s one reason most sellers choose to make some updates before listing.

According to a recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), two-thirds of sellers (65%) completed minor repairs or improvements before selling (the blue and the green in the chart below). And only one-third (35%) sold as-is:

What Selling As-Is Really Means

Selling as-is means you’re signaling upfront that you won’t handle repairs before listing or negotiate fixes after inspection. That can definitely simplify things on your end, but it also narrows your buyer pool.

Homes that are move-in ready typically attract more buyers and stronger offers. On the flip side, when a home needs work, fewer buyers are willing to take it on. That can mean fewer showings, fewer offers, more time on the market, and often a lower final price.

It doesn’t mean your house won’t sell – it just means it may not sell for as much as it could have.

How an Agent Can Help

So, what should you do? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s going to depend a lot on your house and your local market.

And that’s why working with Stovall Team is a must. Micah will create a cost-benefit analysis for comparing the total costs and benefits of a project or decision to determine its overall value and feasibility. This will help you weigh your options and anticipate what your house may sell for either way – and that can be a key factor in your final decision.

If you choose to sell as-is: call attention to features, like the location, size, and more, so it’s easy for buyers to see the potential, not just the projects.
If you decide to make repairs: Stovall Team will pinpoint what’s really worth the time and effort based on your budget and what buyers care about the most.

The good news is, there’s still time to get repairs done. Typically speaking, the spring is the peak homebuying season, so there are still several months left before buyer demand will be at its seasonal high. That means you have time to make some repairs, without rushing or stressing, and still hit the listing sweet spot.

The choice is yours. No matter what you end up picking, Stovall Team will market your house to draw in as many buyers as possible. And in today’s market, that expertise is going to be worth it.

Bottom Line

While selling as-is can still make sense in certain situations, in some markets today, it may cost you. So, no, you don’t have to make repairs before you list. But you may want to.

To make sure you’re considering all your options and making the best choice possible, call Stovall Team at 714.343.9294 to have a quick conversation about your house.

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Top 2026 Housing Markets for Buyers and Sellers

By Tarah Stovall | Published: December 30, 2025

Who doesn’t love a top 10 list? Well, here are two top 10 lists for the housing market this year. But before you take a look, there’s something you should know.

If a move is on your radar for 2026, here’s the most important thing you need to understand upfront: there isn’t one housing market this year – there are many.

Experts agree 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most geographically split housing markets in years. Some areas are tilting in favor of sellers, while others are opening real doors for buyers. Who has the advantage depends almost entirely on where you are. Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at Cotality, puts it this way:

“Looking ahead to 2026, regional differences will remain pronounced, with demand favoring areas that offer both economic opportunity and relative affordability.”

To show just how divided the landscape is, here’s a look at where sellers are expected to have the upper hand, and where first-time buyers may finally find their opening this year.

Where Sellers Are Poised To Win Big in 2026

Zillow identified the following metros as some of the strongest seller markets for 2026, based on buyer demand, pricing momentum, and how quickly homes are expected to sell:

In markets like these, buyers are going to be competing for limited inventory, which gives sellers more leverage.

Homeowners in seller’s markets this year can expect:

Stronger buyer interest
Shorter time on market
Better odds of selling close to (or above) asking price

That doesn’t mean every listing is guaranteed success. But it does mean sellers who prepare well and lean on an agent’s expertise should be very happy with their results in 2026.

Markets Where There’s More Opportunity for First-Time Buyers

On the flip side, here’s a look at where buyers have the power – in particular, first-time buyers, since they’ve had the hardest time breaking into the market lately. Realtor.com highlights the top metros where first-time buyers are expected to have better opportunities in 2026:

These markets stand out for a mix of:

More affordable home prices
Better housing availability
Strong local amenities and economic health

For first-time buyers, that combination matters. It’s what could finally turn “someday” into “this could actually work.” In buyer’s markets, they should expect:

Less intense competition
More room to negotiate
A clearer path to getting an offer accepted

What Matters More Than Any Top 10 List

Not seeing your city on the list? Don’t stress. This is just a national snapshot, not a judgment on your local market. The goal here is just to show you how different the market really is depending on where you are.

And remember, you can buy or sell no matter how your local market leans. You just need Stovall Team’s help to figure out the right strategy to get it done. For example:

A seller in a more buyer-friendly metro may need to be aggressive on their price and prep.
A buyer in a seller-leaning area may still need to come prepared with their best offer.

To find out where your market falls and what you should expect, you’ll want the help of a local expert.

Bottom Line

The housing market in 2026 isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a year where local conditions matter more than ever.

Whether your market leans more buyer-friendly or seller-friendly, the right strategy can put you in a strong position. And that’s where a local expert comes in. Connect with Stovall Team today 714.343.9294.

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Selling Your Parent’s Home: A Complete Guide Stovall Team

By Tarah Stovall | Published: November 17, 2025

Selling a parent’s home is more than just a real estate transaction—it’s an emotional journey. Whether your parents are downsizing, moving closer to family, or transitioning to a senior living community, careful planning is key to a smooth sale. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, helping families in Orange County make informed decisions while maximizing value.

Selling a parent’s home is often more than a real estate transaction—it’s a delicate process that combines financial decisions with emotional considerations. Choosing the right realtor can make all the difference, ensuring the sale goes smoothly while preserving your family’s peace of mind.

This guide will walk you through how to select a trustworthy, experienced realtor who understands the unique challenges of selling a parent’s home.

1. Look for Experience with Senior or Inherited Properties

Not all realtors have experience handling homes for seniors or inherited properties. These sales can involve:

Legal documentation, such as power of attorney or estate executor paperwork
Emotional decision-making for the family
Homes that may need repairs or updating before listing

Choose a realtor who has successfully handled similar sales, understands the sensitivity, and knows how to guide families through complex transactions.

2. Check Local Market Knowledge

A realtor familiar with the local Orange County market will know:

Recent home sales in your parent’s neighborhood
Current buyer demand
Pricing strategies that attract serious buyers

Local expertise helps you price the home accurately, avoid prolonged time on the market, and sell for top dollar.

3. Ask About Marketing Strategies

Selling a parent’s home often requires professional marketing to reach the right buyers quickly. When interviewing potential realtors, ask:

Do they provide professional photography and virtual tours?
Will they list the home on major platforms like MLS, Zillow, and Realtor.com?
What strategies do they use to highlight unique features of the home?

The right realtor will have a proven marketing plan tailored to your property.

4. Evaluate Communication and Responsiveness

Selling a parent’s home can involve quick decisions and multiple stakeholders. Your realtor should:

Respond promptly to calls, emails, or texts
Keep the family updated at every step
Explain options clearly and professionally

Good communication reduces stress and helps the family feel in control of the process.

5. Check References and Reviews

Ask for client references and read online reviews. Look for a realtor who:

Has a track record of satisfied families selling homes for seniors
Handles sensitive situations with empathy
Delivers on promises, such as timely sales and smooth closings

References can give insight into a realtor’s integrity, professionalism, and negotiation skills.

6. Consider Staging and Home Preparation Support

The right realtor will guide you through home preparation, including:

Decluttering and depersonalizing
Repair recommendations and minor renovations
Professional staging to maximize appeal

These steps can help the home sell faster and for a higher price.

7. Look for Negotiation Skills

Your realtor should be a skilled negotiator who can:

Evaluate multiple offers carefully
Advise on counteroffers and contingencies
Protect your parent’s interests while keeping the sale moving

Negotiation experience is especially important in competitive markets like Orange County.

8. Verify Licensing and Professional Credentials

Always confirm your realtor:

Holds a valid California real estate license
Is in good standing with the California Association of Realtors (CAR)
Has additional certifications for senior or estate sales (optional but helpful)

This ensures your transaction is legally sound and professionally managed.

9. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your gut. Selling a parent’s home is often emotional—choose a realtor you feel comfortable with, who listens, and who demonstrates empathy. The right fit will make the process smoother and less stressful for the whole family.

Conclusion

Choosing the right realtor is one of the most important decisions when selling your parent’s home. Look for someone with:

Experience handling senior or inherited properties
Strong local market knowledge
Excellent communication and marketing skills
Negotiation expertise and professional credentials

The Stovall Team and Micah Stovall specialize in helping families in Orange County sell their homes with care, professionalism, and experience you can trust.

Contact us today to learn how we can guide your family through this important transition

Selling a parent’s home in Orange County can be complex, but with careful planning, the right professional guidance, and a clear strategy, it can also be a smooth and rewarding experience.

Ready to get started? Contact the Stovall Team and Micah Stovall, 714.343.9294 your trusted Orange County real estate experts, for guidance every step of the way. Experience you can trust.

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OC Home Prices & Real Estate Market Analysis. Would You Let $100 a Month Hold You Back from Buying a Home?

By Tarah Stovall | Published: November 14, 2025

How to buy a home in Orange County in 2026. Explore Orange County housing market trends, price changes, and expert insights for buyers, sellers, and investors across all major OC cities. Call Stovall Team today 714.343.9294. I am seeing a lot of buyers stuck in “wait and see” mode right now. They’re watching rates hover a little above 6% and thinking, I’ll buy once they hit the 5s. Because who doesn’t want a better rate?

But here’s the thing: that 5.99% number might not save you as much as you think. Most of us don’t think twice about spending a few dollars on a cup of coffee at our favorite local coffee shop. But what if you invested the same amount in your home?

I know that affordability is a challenge. There’s no question about that. But the market has given savvy buyers a head start. Mortgage rates have already come down over the past few months. And the drop we’ve seen saves you more than you’d think.

How Much You’ve Already Saved, Without Realizing It

Let’s put some real numbers to it. Rates peaked for the year in May when they inched above 7%. But since then, they’ve been slowly declining. Now, they’re sitting in the low 6s. And while that may not sound like a big deal, that change translates to real dollars.

According to data coming out of Redfin, the typical monthly payment on a $800,000 home is already down almost $800 since May.

That means if you’re buying a home now, you’re saving hundreds of dollars every month compared to what you would have been able to get earlier this spring. That’s real money that makes a real difference for buyers who paused their plans because they thought homeownership was out of reach.

And while it may be tempting to wait even longer to see bigger savings, that’s a gamble that could cost you. Here’s why.

Where Experts Say Rates Are Headed

For starters, most experts say mortgage rates are likely to stay pretty much where we are today throughout 2026. So, there’s no guarantee we’ll see a rate much lower than what we have now. Only one expert forecaster is saying rates could fall into the upper 5s next year (see graph below):

And even if rates do dip below 6%, the extra savings you’re holding out for won’t move the needle as much as you might expect.

The Real Math Behind a 5.99% Rate

Let’s break it down. If rates come down to 5.99% from where they’ve been lately that’s a difference of only about $100 a month on an average priced home – give or take a bit based on your price point and the rate your lender quotes you (see chart below):

Eighty dollars. That’s it. And for the typical family, that’s about one dinner out (or one dinner in, if you have it delivered). That’s not enough to change the game for most buyers. But the savings of nearly $400 we already have compared to when you paused your search in the spring? That might be.

So, the question to ask yourself is this:

Is an extra $100 savings really worth the wait?

Because while you’re holding out for that small dip, the bigger opportunity might be slipping away.

When Rates Fall, Competition Follows

Right now, you have more homes to choose from, sellers who are ready to negotiate to get a deal done, and fewer buyers to compete with. But once rates fall below 6%, buyer mindsets will shift and all of that will change.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that if rates hit 6%, about 5.5 million more households will be able to afford the median-priced home. Even if only a small fraction of them decide to buy, that could mean hundreds of thousands of buyers getting back into the market.

That creates more competition for you, which would push home prices even higher – maybe high enough to cancel out the extra savings you waited for.

So, if you’re waiting for rates below 6%, just keep in mind… that extra $80 may not be worth it in the grand scheme of things.

Bottom Line

You don’t have to wait for 5.99%. You have the chance to move (and save) right now. So, ask yourself: Would you let $100 hold you back from buying a home?

If you find a home you love and the math makes sense, getting ahead may be the best strategy. Connect with an agent or lender to run your numbers. That way you can see what you’re working with in your market.

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