By Gary Macrides | Dana Point Real Estate Expert | Surterre Properties®
For years, Orange County real estate—especially in prime areas like Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point—has been dominated by sellers. Fast sales, multiple offers, and over-asking prices were the norm. But in 2025, the landscape is evolving.
So, is Orange County officially shifting to a buyer’s market? And what does that mean if you're looking to invest in blossoming communities like Dana Point?
What Is a Buyer’s Market?
A buyer’s market happens when the number of homes for sale exceeds the number of active buyers. This shift gives buyers more negotiating power, more options, and often, more time to make decisions. By contrast, a seller’s market puts sellers in control, thanks to limited inventory and strong demand.
Orange County’s Market Is Entering a New Phase
Right now, Orange County has about 5,200 active listings—up from recent years but still below the 7,000–8,000 homes we’d typically see pre-pandemic. This increase in inventory has opened the door for buyers, though competition remains steady in luxury markets like Newport Coast, San Clemente, and especially Dana Point.
If interest rates decline further, buyer activity is expected to pick up rapidly—particularly from those seeking the coastal lifestyle and long-term value that South Orange County delivers.
Why Dana Point Is a Smart Investment in 2025
Among Orange County’s luxury markets, Dana Point is blossoming into one of the most exciting places to invest. With ongoing harbor revitalization, downtown upscale development, and a unique blend of small-town charm and resort-style living, Dana Point is attracting buyers who want both value and lifestyle.
💡 “Dana Point offers untapped potential for savvy buyers and long-term investors alike. I’ve specialized in this market for over 25 years and can tell you—now is a great time to get in.” – Gary Macrides
Market Data: What the Numbers Show
While some homes—especially under $2M—are still selling quickly, increased inventory means buyers now have the upper hand in many situations. In places like Dana Point, that means greater flexibility without sacrificing long-term upside.
What About Foreclosures?
Foreclosures continue to play a minimal role in today’s Orange County market. Most listings—especially in luxury areas like Dana Point, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach — are traditional sales. That’s a good sign for market stability and for homeowners concerned about volatility.
Orange County vs. Other Luxury Markets
While cities like Miami and Cape Coral are seeing more dramatic shifts into buyer territory, Orange County remains resilient. Coastal cities like Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point continue to attract international buyers, relocation clients, and investors looking for blue-chip real estate with lifestyle appeal.
Buyers: Now’s the Time to Explore
With more homes on the market and motivated sellers, now is a strategic time to explore luxury real estate—especially in emerging coastal markets like Dana Point. Whether you're a move-up buyer, a first-time investor, or someone seeking a second home by the sea, the opportunity is real.
Let me help you build a personalized home search strategy based on your goals, your timeline, and today’s data.
Sellers: You Still Have the Advantage—with the Right Strategy
Yes, the market is shifting. But if you’re selling in Dana Point, San Clemente, or Laguna Beach, demand for well-presented homes is still strong. The difference now? You need the right pricing, professional marketing, and expert negotiation to make it happen.
With the help of Surterre Properties, I combine global reach with hyper-local focus—so your property gets in front of the right buyers, faster.
Final Thoughts: A Market in Motion
Is Orange County a buyer’s market? Not fully—but we’re heading in that direction. What’s certain is this: both buyers and sellers can win in this market—if they’re working with a knowledgeable professional who understands where the opportunities lie.
If you’re ready to buy or sell in Dana Point—a city on the rise with exceptional investment potential—I’m here to help.
Let’s Talk Strategy
Gary Macrides – Dana Point Real Estate Expert
📞 949-370-6827
📧 gmacrides@surterreproperties.com
🌐 YourOCCoastalHomeConnection.com
Let’s navigate this evolving market together—strategically, confidently, and with your success as the top priority.