Wondering How Lamorinda’s Housing Market is Shaping Up As We Head Into Fall?

Introduction

As summer winds down, the Lamorinda real estate market is showing the first signs of seasonal transition. August brought fewer new listings, slightly longer selling times, and a modest dip in prices, typical for this time of year as families settle into the school season and sellers prepare for the fall market. Yet despite these shifts, Lamorinda remains one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after regions, with homes still selling at full asking price on average.

This month’s update takes a closer look at the numbers, new listings, average days on market, median sales price, and properties sold, and what they mean for both buyers and sellers navigating today’s housing landscape.

New Listings
In August, Lamorinda recorded 68 new listings, marking a 5.6% decline compared to July. While the number may seem modest, this drop is part of a typical seasonal trend where sellers slow down toward the end of summer before the fall market picks up again. Fewer new homes entering the market means buyers are working with a smaller pool of fresh inventory, which can limit choices. For sellers, this can actually be advantageous, less competition from other listings allows well-positioned properties to stand out more strongly. Buyers who have been actively searching will want to act quickly when the right home comes up, as fewer new options are expected until mid-fall.

Average Days on Market
The average days on market rose to 39 days in August, up by nine days compared to the previous month. This increase signals a noticeable shift in buyer behavior. Earlier in the summer, homes were moving quickly, often within a few weeks. Now, buyers are taking more time to compare options, assess pricing, and negotiate. This slower pace can provide buyers with more confidence and room to breathe, but for sellers it underscores the importance of correct pricing from the start. Overpricing in this environment can lead to a property sitting longer, which may ultimately result in price reductions. The good news is that well-prepared homes, those staged effectively, priced strategically, and marketed well, are still able to attract strong offers and sell faster than the average.

Median Sales Price
The average sales price for Lamorinda homes in August settled at $1.85M, representing nearly a $200,000 dip compared to July. While a month-to-month change may appear dramatic, this should be viewed in context. Prices remain strong historically, and the decline is more reflective of shifting buyer dynamics and seasonal trends than a sharp downturn. Buyers today are more selective, willing to wait for the right property rather than rushing into a purchase at any cost. Homes that are turnkey, updated, and thoughtfully presented continue to secure top-dollar offers, while those requiring updates or lacking standout features may linger on the market longer or close at slightly lower prices. This creates both opportunities and challenges: buyers can find negotiating room in certain segments, while sellers with premium properties can still command a competitive edge.

Properties Sold
In terms of overall activity, 113 homes were actively listed in August, representing a 15.7% decline from July’s level. The decrease in active inventory reflects both fewer new listings and fewer closings as the summer market winds down. Despite this, homes are still selling at an average of 100% of their list price, which suggests that when a property is priced accurately and marketed effectively, demand remains strong enough to meet sellers’ expectations. The consistency between asking and selling prices highlights the stability of the Lamorinda market even as activity slows, there is no major discounting or distressed selling. For both buyers and sellers, this indicates a balanced environment: buyers can take more time in their decision-making process, and sellers who are realistic about pricing are still achieving solid results.

Conclusion

Summer is slow, but now we're ready for a busy fall. Buyers now have more time to make decisions, while sellers are reminded that presentation and pricing remain key to standing out.

Case Study

Off-Market Success at 89 Donald Dr., Orinda

The Situation

The sellers lived in Los Angeles and needed someone local they could trust to handle everything. Their main goal was to sell for a strong price without the hassle of traveling back and forth.

What I Did

Once they handed me the keys, I took care of it all, fresh paint, new carpet, updated flooring, handyman work, and landscaping. By coordinating every detail myself, the home was fully ready for buyers without the sellers ever needing to be here.

How It Played Out

Before the home could even go live on the MLS, I previewed it with colleagues in my network. One of them had buyers actively searching in Orinda, and the timing and presentation lined up perfectly.

The Outcome

The right buyer came along quickly, and the home sold off-market for $2,850,000. The sellers never had to lift a finger, and both sides were thrilled with the result.

Takeaway

This sale is a good reminder that preparation and timing make all the difference. With the right strategy and connections, sometimes the best offers arrive before a home ever hits the market.

If you’re curious about what your home might be worth or whether an off-market sale could be right for you. I’d love to share what worked here and create a strategy tailored for your goals.

My Featured Listings

164 Camino Don Miguel, Orinda, CA

Overlooking the Orinda Country Club fairway, this renovated French Country home blends timeless design with modern updates. Featuring a chef’s kitchen, soaring ceilings, a serene primary suite, versatile bonus spaces, and beautifully landscaped outdoor living, it’s the perfect balance of elegance, comfort, and location.

Co-listed with Amy Smith and Molly Smith.

FAQs

Seller Questions Answered

When is the best time to sell my home in Lamorinda?

• Traditionally, spring and early summer bring more buyers, but Lamorinda’s strong schools and family appeal mean homes sell year-round. The “best” time often depends on your personal timeline and the market’s current pace.

THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING? LET’S TALK!

If you have any real estate questions or just want to catch up, I’d love to hear from you! Whether buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the market, I’m here to help.

Reach out anytime—I’d love to hear from you!