Will Higher Inventory in 2026 Give College Park East Buyers More Negotiating Power?

Short answer: Yes—inventory growth in early 2026 is finally giving Seal Beach buyers more leverage, especially in College Park East.

Inventory Is Rising—What That Means for You

Across Orange County, active listings are up compared to prior years. While still below pre-pandemic norms, this shift changes buyer dynamics:

• Fewer bidding wars

• More price reductions

• Longer days on market

In College Park East, this often translates to room for negotiation, especially on homes that missed their ideal pricing window.

What Buyers Can Negotiate in 2026

Depending on the property, buyers may now negotiate:

• Purchase price

• Repair credits

• Seller-paid closing costs

• Longer inspection timelines

This flexibility was nearly impossible just a few years ago.

Timing Matters by Neighborhood

College Park East inventory behaves differently than coastal Seal Beach:

• Homes are less seasonal

• Sellers are often long-term owners

• Pricing psychology matters more than speed

👉 Want to know which listings have negotiation potential right now? Book a 10-minute buyer strategy call with Nat.

Buyer FAQ

Does more inventory mean prices will fall?
Not necessarily—but it does reduce seller leverage.

Are sellers open to concessions?
More than they were in past years, especially on stale listings.

Should I still move quickly on good homes?
Yes—well-priced homes still sell fast.

Get the Advantage in College Park East

Nat Ferguson at Splash Real Estate helps buyers identify leverage opportunities others miss.

Schedule your call here