August 2026 Market Trends

The latest East Bay housing numbers tell a familiar story: there isn't one East Bay real estate market. Conditions vary considerably depending on the city and whether you're buying or selling a single-family home or a condo/townhome.

Single-Family Homes Still Favor Sellers

Berkeley, El Cerrito, Oakland, Alamo, Martinez, and Walnut Creek remain among the stronger single-family markets. Berkeley homes averaged an impressive 137% of list price, El Cerrito had just 0.71 months of inventory, and Oakland homes averaged 117% of list price.

The common thread is limited inventory. When a desirable, well-priced home comes on the market in these areas, buyers may still find themselves competing.

Buyers Have More Options Elsewhere

The market becomes more balanced in places such as Dublin, Danville, and San Ramon, where single-family homes averaged roughly 98%–99% of list price and inventory was higher.

But the biggest opportunity may be condos and townhomes. Inventory reached 3.89 months in Oakland, 4.79 months in San Ramon, and 5.13 months in Pleasanton. In many of these markets, buyers have more choices, more time to make decisions, and potentially more negotiating room.

The Bottom Line

For sellers: Low inventory can still work in your favor, but buyers are selective. Pricing, condition, presentation, and location matter.

For buyers: Don't assume every East Bay home will generate a bidding war. Opportunities exist, particularly with condos and townhomes, and in markets with increasing inventory.

This Month's Q&A

Q: If homes are selling over asking, should I automatically offer above the list price?
A: No. Asking price is only one part of the equation. Comparable sales, inventory, competition, property condition, and time on market should help determine your offer. In some situations, you may need to be aggressive; in others, you may have room to negotiate.