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We're halfway through 2026, so I sat back down with Steven Thomas, chief economist of Reports On Housing, to grade his January predictions and talk about what is actually happening in the housing market right now. Steven has been tracking Orange County data since 2004, and his team now covers all of Southern California, the Bay Area, Phoenix and Vegas. He is one of the few voices I trust to put numbers in context, and this is the kind of conversation every buyer, seller and homeowner in California should be listening to before they make a move this fall.
In this episode we cover:
- Why mortgage rates are stuck above 6.5% right now, the role the Iran conflict and the March 6th jobs report played, and where Steven thinks rates land by year end
- Why inventory flipped from rising to slightly below last year, and what "hunkering down" really means for sellers
- The 3 ingredients a real housing crash needs, and why we only have one of them today
- What "expected market time" tells you that days on market does not, plus what a 34% national price reduction rate is really saying about how sellers are pricing
- Why the spring market is officially over, why the fall is the smarter window for a major move, and where the actual deals are hiding right now
Connect with Steven Thomas and Reports On Housing:
Website: https://reportsonhousing.com
Email: Office@ReportsOnHousing.com
Connect with me, Audra Lambert:
Website: http://www.LambertGroupHomes.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lambertaudra
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/audra.lambert1
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/audralambertgroup
Phone: (949) 312-4541
Email: Audra@LambertGroupHomes.com
If you're thinking about buying or selling in Orange County, or you just want a referral to a top agent in your area, start here: https://www.lambertgrouphomes.com/agent-referrals
Creators and Guests
Host
Audra Lambert
Audra Lambert, a prominent figure in South Orange County's real estate scene, boasts over 20 years of dedicated service to both sellers and buyers in the residential property market. Renowned for her profound market knowledge, dynamic negotiation prowess, and her client service, Audra passionately guides residents of South Orange County in realizing their dreams of selling or acquiring the perfect property tailored to their specifications and lifestyle. Going above and beyond, Audra consistently surpasses client expectations through her infectious enthusiasm, adept negotiation skills, and the ability to foster enduring relationships. Her unmatched professionalism, commitment to excellence, and determination to safeguard clients' interests and privacy contribute to the maintenance of a robust referral base.
Guest
Steven Thomas
Utilizing his Quantitative Economics and Decision Sciences background coupled with his years of experience in the real estate field as a REALTOR®, broker, and executive of a multi-office real estate franchise, Steven Thomas delivers a report that captures the true essence of the current real estate market. Most economic housing reports analyze and discuss closed sales data, a look at the market through the rearview mirror. Closed sales are a reflection of pending sales that are put together 30 to 60-days prior to the closing. Reports on Housing’s report is a close look at supply and demand, the current listing inventory, current pending sale activity, and the expected market time for homes placed onto the market today. It is more of a current real estate market dashboard than a look in the rearview mirror. “Every consumer, real estate professional, and analyst needs to understand the key differences in market conditions at a very local level. The Orange County Housing Report is one such report that I eagerly look forward to receiving. The report helps me digest and assess the latest developments in Southern California.”
What is The Audra Lambert Podcast?
Welcome to the Audra Lambert Podcast, where real estate expertise meets authentic conversation. Hosted by Audra Lambert of Lambert Group Homes, this show dives deep into the world of real estate, home ownership, investment strategies, and the stories behind the people who make houses into homes.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply curious about the real estate market, Audra brings her wealth of knowledge and passion for helping people find their perfect place. Each episode features engaging discussions, expert insights, and practical advice to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of real estate.
Join Audra as she shares insider tips, interviews industry professionals, and explores the human side of buying, selling, and investing in property. From market trends to home staging secrets, this podcast is your go-to resource for all things real estate.
Connect with Audra and Lambert Group Homes at [www.lambertgrouphomes.com](http://www.lambertgrouphomes.com)