I’ve always said it doesn’t matter where you stand, so long as you know where you’re going. But I find it helpful to know how you got to your starting point, so that the way forward will be clearer. So for this week’s video, I took a quick look back at 2025 before whipping out the crystal ball to see where we’re headed in 2026.
So first, the 2025 recap. Silicon Valley (Santa Clara county anyway) basically did what it always does: stayed expensive. The average of the monthly median sale prices in 2025 was about $1.93M, up roughly 4% from $1.86M in 2024. Price per square foot was essentially flat (~+1%). Translation: values edged higher, but without the caffeine-fueled chaos of past years. Think “brisk walk,” not “shot out of a cannon.”
The market also got a little more balanced. New listings were up about 3%, closed sales were down around 4%, and months of inventory rose from roughly 1.15 to 1.40. That’s still a seller-leaning market, just not quite as tight. You could see it in the sale-to-list price ratio: it cooled from about 105.9% in 2024 to 103.8% in 2025. Still competitive, but buyers had more choices and got pickier (annoying, but true).
Looking ahead, the California Association of REALTOR®s expects modest improvement in 2026: slightly more sales, moderately higher prices, and a tiny bump in affordability. No fireworks, no collapse. But of course, some zip codes – some neighborhoods – will far much better, or worse, than others.
My advice if you’re thinking about a 2026 move (downsizing, relocating, simplifying): plan now, and aim to sell earlier rather than later. That’s because the future is, of course, murky – but we came into the year with a good head of steam. Mortgage rates are, today, the lowest they’ve been in about 5 years. There’s very little on the market right now, so the table looks to be set for a very favorable selling experience in Q1 of this year.
Let me know if there’s anything I can help you with! Happy to help you strategize on how you can make a move in 2026 your best one yet.
Sell As-Is. Sell Easy. Sell Smart!
From the Monterey Bay Wayback Machine
Monterey Plans for Postwar Wharf Expansion (January 10, 1945)
The Monterey City Council met to discuss postwar planning, including a possible expansion of municipal wharf facilities to support the booming sardine industry. With demand high and wartime production still shaping the local economy, city leaders looked ahead to how Monterey’s waterfront could handle larger volumes of fishing activity, processing, and shipping. The discussion reflected confidence in Cannery Row’s continued importance and the need for upgraded infrastructure. It also showed how Monterey was already preparing for the economic transition that would follow the war’s end.
Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital Welcomes the Public (January 9, 1950)
Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital opened its doors for a public tour, offering residents a first look at the new medical facility before patients were admitted later that month. The event allowed community members to view modern wards, equipment, and services designed to meet growing regional healthcare needs. The hospital’s opening marked a major investment in public health for the Salinas Valley, reflecting postwar population growth and rising expectations for accessible, high-quality medical care in Monterey County.
Watsonville Launches 1954 Push for Pajaro Valley Exports (January 11, 1954)
The Watsonville Chamber of Commerce announced its 1954 program to promote the Pajaro Valley’s agricultural exports, aiming to strengthen markets for the region’s growers and shippers. The initiative emphasized expanding demand and improving visibility for local produce beyond the Central Coast. With farming central to the valley’s economy, the program reflected a business-led effort to boost competitiveness through coordinated marketing and outreach. The announcement highlighted Watsonville’s role as a commercial hub supporting agriculture, transportation, and packing industries that depended on strong export channels.
Your Neighbor Sold their House too Cheap!
This Week in Santa Cruz County
Scotts Valley Clears Path for a New Downtown with Town Center Plan Approval
The Scotts Valley City Council has approved the long-planned Town Center Specific Plan, marking a major step toward creating a true downtown core for the city. The plan, first introduced in 2008 and refined over many years, was adopted along with its Environmental Impact Report at the council’s final meeting of 2025, clearing the way for future development.
The Town Center plan covers roughly 58 acres near the former Skypark Airport site and outlines a mixed-use district designed to be walkable and community-focused. It allows for up to 657 housing units, more than 80,000 square feet of commercial space, and about 35,000 square feet of civic and public facilities such as plazas and gathering areas. City leaders envision the area as a central hub where residents can live, shop, work, and gather in one place.
Officials say the approval reflects years of public input, planning studies, and land acquisition efforts aimed at addressing housing needs while creating a stronger sense of place. While the plan itself does not approve individual projects, it establishes a framework that will guide future proposals and city decisions. Supporters see it as a foundation for long-term economic growth and a more connected, vibrant Scotts Valley.
Writing Group for 55+ at Garfield Park
Date: Thursday, January 15
Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Garfield Park Branch Library, 705 Woodrow Ave, Santa Cruz
A creative writing workshop for adults 55+ focused on nature, climate awareness, and community connection. Led by experienced writers Stephany Buswell and Elbina Batala Rafizadeh, the group encourages reflection, creativity, and social connection.
The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour
Date: Thursday, January 15
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Kaiser Permanente Arena, 140 Front Street, Santa Cruz
Celebrate a century of basketball entertainment with the Harlem Globetrotters’ 100 Year Tour, featuring jaw-dropping athleticism, comedy, and crowd-pleasing fun for all ages.
Zoso – The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience
Date: Thursday, January 15
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Felton Music Hall, 6275 Hwy 9, Felton
Zoso brings the raw power and musical precision of Led Zeppelin’s legendary live shows to the stage, celebrating 31 years of touring in 2026. With thousands of performances worldwide and a lineup built to honor each iconic role, this tribute delivers classic hits, deep cuts, and the full-throttle energy fans expect.
Santa Cruz MAH: 5 Minute Film Festival
Date: Thursday, January 15
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: 705 Front St, Santa Cruz
Catch the inaugural MAH 5 Minute Film Festival, featuring 15 standout independent films all five minutes or less. Enjoy a fast-paced screening and stay through the finale as prizes and winners are announced.
Time to talk to a REALTOR?
Senior Friendly Homes in Silicon Valley South
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