19/09/2026
🏡 Buyers: You May Have More Negotiating Power This Fall—But Don’t Misread the Market
If you’ve been waiting for a better opportunity to buy in Southern California, there is some encouraging news.
The latest C.A.R. data shows Southern California at 3.8 months of inventory in August, with homes taking a median 29 days to sell. Los Angeles metro was at 4.0 months and 32 days.
That doesn’t mean sellers are giving homes away.
It means buyers may have more time to think, compare properties, conduct inspections, and negotiate.
And negotiation isn’t always about asking for a lower price.
Depending on the property, there may be opportunities to negotiate repairs, closing costs, credits, timing, and other terms.
The catch? Mortgage rates are still high. Freddie Mac reported a 30-year fixed average of 6.95% on September 17, 2026.
So the smartest buyers aren’t just asking:
“Can I get the seller to lower the price?”
They’re asking:
“Does this property make financial sense for me?”
If you’re considering buying in Long Beach, Los Angeles, or Orange County, let’s look at the numbers before you make your move.
Nasser Sharif, Realtor® | CIAS, CNS
📞 (562) 221-8000