Capital Gains When Selling a Home: Could the Tax Exemption Double?

If you have owned your home for many years and watched its value increase, selling can come with a question many homeowners don't think about until they are ready to move: Will I have to pay capital gains tax when I sell my home?

This is becoming especially important for homeowners in high-value areas like Santa Clarita and Southern California, where many longtime homeowners have seen substantial appreciation.

There is also a proposal in Congress that could significantly increase the capital gains exclusion available when selling a primary residence. If passed, it could be a major benefit for longtime homeowners considering a move.

What Are Capital Gains When Selling a Home?

In simple terms, a capital gain is the profit you make when you sell an asset for more than your adjusted cost basis.

For a home, this isn't necessarily as simple as subtracting the original purchase price from the sales price. Your adjusted basis can include certain capital improvements you have made to the property, while selling expenses and other factors may also affect the calculation.

For example, if you purchased a home many years ago for $400,000 and eventually sold it for $1,000,000, that does not automatically mean you have $600,000 of taxable capital gain. Your CPA or tax professional can help determine your actual adjusted basis, eligible expenses and taxable gain.

What Is the Current Capital Gains Exclusion on a Primary Residence?

Under current federal tax law, qualifying homeowners may be able to exclude up to:

$250,000 in capital gains for a single filer

$500,000 in capital gains for a married couple filing jointly

Generally, to qualify for the full primary residence exclusion, you must have owned the home and used it as your primary residence for at least two of the five years before the sale. Additional rules and exceptions can apply, so every homeowner's situation should be reviewed individually.

This exclusion can be extremely valuable, but there is one major problem: the limits have not kept pace with how much home values have increased over the years.

A Proposed Bill Could Double the Home Sale Capital Gains Exclusion

Lawmakers have proposed increasing the federal home-sale capital gains exclusion to:

$500,000 for single filers

$1,000,000 for married couples filing jointly

The proposals would effectively double today's limits and would also provide for future inflation adjustments.

As of 2026, however, this change has not become law. The current $250,000 and $500,000 limits still apply.

Why Increasing the Capital Gains Exclusion Could Help Homeowners

This could be particularly important in markets like Santa Clarita and Southern California.

I've seen this issue firsthand in real estate. Back in 2021, I worked with several longtime homeowners who had owned their properties for 10 years or more and experienced significant appreciation. Some had gains exceeding $500,000 and faced substantial tax consequences when they sold.

And that was several years ago.

Many homeowners who purchased their homes 10, 20 or 30 years ago paid a fraction of what those properties may be worth today. A homeowner may not consider themselves a real estate investor or think of their home as producing a huge "profit," but decades of appreciation can create a significant taxable gain when it comes time to sell.

Increasing the exclusion could allow more of that appreciation to remain with homeowners.

Could a Higher Exclusion Encourage More Homeowners to Sell?

Potentially, yes.

One concern I hear from longtime homeowners is, "If I sell, what will I owe in taxes?"

For some homeowners, the potential tax consequences can become another reason to stay in a property that may no longer fit their lifestyle.

A larger capital gains exclusion could make selling more financially attractive for some longtime owners. That could be particularly beneficial for older homeowners who want to downsize, move closer to family or transition into a different type of property.

It could also potentially help the housing market by removing one financial obstacle that may discourage some longtime homeowners from selling.

Keep Records of Your Home Improvements

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners can make is waiting until they are ready to sell before thinking about taxes.

Certain capital improvements may increase your home's adjusted cost basis, which can potentially reduce the amount of gain subject to tax.

That is why it can be important to maintain records and receipts for major improvements made throughout your ownership.

A remodeled kitchen, room addition, new roof or other qualifying capital improvement may affect your basis differently than routine repairs and maintenance. A qualified tax professional can determine which expenses qualify and how they should be documented.

Talk to Your CPA Before You List Your Home

As a Realtor, I can help determine your home's potential market value, estimated selling expenses and what you might expect to walk away with from the real estate transaction.

But capital gains and tax planning should be discussed with a qualified CPA or tax professional.

If you have significant equity in your home, I recommend having that conversation before you put your home on the market, not after you sell.

Your CPA can review your original purchase price, improvements, adjusted basis, expected selling expenses, filing status and other circumstances to help you understand the potential tax consequences of selling.

The goal is to know your numbers ahead of time so you can make an informed decision and keep as much of your equity as legally possible.

Thinking About Selling Your Santa Clarita Home?

If you have owned your home for many years and aren't sure what it is worth today, the first step is understanding your current equity.

I can provide a personalized home value and selling analysis so you have a clearer picture of your property's current market value and estimated proceeds. From there, I recommend working with your CPA or tax professional to determine how a sale could affect your individual tax situation.

Whether you're considering downsizing, moving out of California, buying another home or simply wondering whether now is the right time to sell, having the numbers in front of you can make the decision much easier.

Jessica Ranuschio | Home661
Santa Clarita Real Estate Broker
DRE #01987956

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not tax, accounting or legal advice. Tax laws and proposed legislation can change. Consult a qualified CPA, tax professional or attorney regarding your individual situation.

If you're thinking about moving to Santa Clarita, California, one of the first things to know is that Santa Clarita is made up of several different communities. Each area has its own history, homes, neighborhoods, and overall feel.

The four main communities within the City of Santa Clarita are Valencia, Saugus, Newhall, and Canyon Country. The surrounding Santa Clarita Valley also includes areas like Stevenson Ranch, Castaic, Agua Dulce, and Acton.

As a local Santa Clarita real estate agent, one of the biggest questions I get is: "Which part of Santa Clarita should I live in?"

Here's a simple breakdown.

Valencia, CA

Valencia is one of the most well-known areas of Santa Clarita. The master-planned community of Valencia began developing in the 1960s and has continued to grow over the years.

Today, Valencia is known for its planned neighborhoods, paseos, parks, shopping, restaurants, and easy access to the freeway. You'll find everything from older established neighborhoods to newer construction.

Valencia is also home to areas near Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia Town Center, College of the Canyons, and Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital.

If you're searching for homes for sale in Valencia, CA, you'll find condos, townhomes, single-family homes, gated communities, and newer developments.

Saugus, CA

Saugus has a much older history than many people realize. The community dates back to the late 1800s and was named after Saugus, Massachusetts, the birthplace of Henry Mayo Newhall.

Today, Saugus is primarily residential and is popular with buyers looking for established neighborhoods, parks, schools, and more space.

Depending on the neighborhood, buyers may also find they can get a little more for their money in Saugus compared with some parts of Valencia.

If you're looking for Saugus homes for sale, you'll find everything from older homes with larger lots to newer communities in the northern parts of Santa Clarita.

Canyon Country, CA

Canyon Country is located on the eastern side of Santa Clarita and became an established community in the 1960s.

One of the biggest benefits of living in Canyon Country is the variety of housing. There are condos and townhomes, traditional single-family neighborhoods, newer developments, and properties with larger lots.

Canyon Country can also offer buyers more house for their money compared with some other parts of Santa Clarita.

For buyers searching for affordable homes in Santa Clarita, Canyon Country is definitely an area worth exploring.

Newhall, CA

Newhall is where you'll find some of Santa Clarita's deepest history.

The area developed around the railroad in the 1800s and played an important role in California's early oil industry. Santa Clarita also has a long connection to Hollywood and Western films.

Today, Old Town Newhall is one of the area's main destinations, with restaurants, shops, entertainment, and community events.

Real estate in Newhall is very diverse. You'll find older neighborhoods, condos, townhomes, larger properties, and some unique homes you won't necessarily find in Santa Clarita's newer planned communities.

Stevenson Ranch, CA

Stevenson Ranch is technically outside the City of Santa Clarita, but most locals consider it part of the greater Santa Clarita Valley.

Development of Stevenson Ranch began in the late 1980s. The community is known for its hillside neighborhoods, newer homes, parks, shopping, and convenient access to the 5 Freeway.

If you commute toward Los Angeles or the San Fernando Valley, Stevenson Ranch real estate can be especially appealing because of its location.

Castaic, CA

Head north on the 5 Freeway and you'll reach Castaic.

Castaic has continued to grow while still offering a little more of an open feel than many parts of Santa Clarita. The area is well known for Castaic Lake, outdoor recreation, and its mix of established and newer neighborhoods.

Buyers looking for homes for sale in Castaic, CA can find single-family homes, newer developments, properties with larger lots, and communities with mountain views.

Agua Dulce and Acton, CA

If you're looking for land, horses, or a more rural lifestyle, head northeast toward Agua Dulce and Acton.

These communities feel very different from central Santa Clarita. You'll find larger properties, ranches, horse property, and more open land.

Acton has roots going back to the railroad and mining era of the late 1800s, while Agua Dulce is known for its rural setting and nearby Vasquez Rocks.

For buyers who want space while still being within reach of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles, Acton and Agua Dulce real estate may be worth considering.

What Is the Best Area to Live in Santa Clarita?

There really isn't one "best" neighborhood in Santa Clarita. It depends on what you're looking for.

Do you want a newer home? More space for your money? A larger yard? Easy freeway access? A condo or townhome? Horse property? An established neighborhood?

That's why knowing the different Santa Clarita neighborhoods and communities is so important before you start looking at homes.

I've lived and worked in the Santa Clarita Valley for years, and I know how different each area can feel—even when they're only a few miles apart.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Santa Clarita, Valencia, Saugus, Canyon Country, Newhall, Stevenson Ranch, Castaic, Acton, or Agua Dulce, reach out. I can help you narrow down which area makes the most sense for your lifestyle, budget, and goals.

If you own a home in California or plan to buy or sell real estate, there is some good news.

California REALTORS® recently came together to oppose AB 736, a bill involving real estate transfer taxes. After thousands of REALTORS® contacted state lawmakers, the bill was stopped from moving forward.

Why does this matter? Because higher transfer taxes could make it more expensive to buy and sell a home in California.

What Is a Real Estate Transfer Tax?

A real estate transfer tax is a tax charged when ownership of a property changes hands.

In simple terms, when a home is sold, the city or county may collect a tax based on the property's sale price or value.

Transfer taxes are different from your yearly property taxes. They are connected to the sale or transfer of real estate.

Depending on where the property is located, there may be county and city transfer taxes. This means the amount you pay can vary depending on the location of the home.

What Was California AB 736?

AB 736 was a California bill dealing with how much local governments could collect through real estate transfer taxes.

The amended bill proposed new limits on transfer taxes beginning in 2027. However, the California Association of REALTORS® raised concerns that putting higher transfer-tax limits into state law could encourage some cities and counties to increase their existing tax rates.

This was especially concerning in a state where buying and selling a home is already expensive.

Could AB 736 Have Increased the Cost of Selling a Home?

That was one of the biggest concerns.

AB 736 would not have automatically raised transfer taxes on every California homeowner. Instead, REALTORS® argued that the bill could have created an opportunity for some local governments to increase their transfer taxes.

For a homeowner selling a higher-priced property, even a small percentage increase could mean thousands of dollars in additional costs.

Those added costs could affect how much money a seller walks away with after closing.

California REALTORS® Took Action

When the California Association of REALTORS® asked its members to speak up, REALTORS® across the state responded quickly.

In just over 24 hours, California REALTORS® made more than 12,000 calls to state legislators asking them to oppose AB 736.

The message was simple: California housing is already expensive. Adding more costs to buying and selling real estate could make homeownership even harder.

The effort worked, and AB 736 was stopped from moving forward.

Why Stopping AB 736 Matters to California Homeowners

Buying or selling a home comes with many expenses.

Sellers may already have real estate commissions, escrow fees, title costs, repairs and other closing expenses. Buyers are dealing with down payments, closing costs, insurance, property taxes and mortgage rates.

Higher real estate transfer taxes could add another expense to an already costly transaction.

Stopping AB 736 helps protect California homeowners from the possibility of these additional transfer-tax increases under this proposal.

REALTOR® Advocacy Is About More Than Selling Homes

This is also a great example of what REALTORS® do behind the scenes.

Our job is not only to help people buy and sell homes. REALTORS® also advocate for homeownership, private property rights and California homeowners.

Many homeowners may never hear about a proposed real estate law until after it passes. REALTOR® organizations monitor legislation and speak up when proposed laws could affect buyers, sellers and property owners.

AB 736 is a good example of REALTOR® advocacy making a difference.

What California Homeowners Should Know Going Forward

AB 736 has been stopped, but real estate laws and taxes can change.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Santa Clarita, Saugus, Valencia, Canyon Country, Newhall, Castaic or Stevenson Ranch, it is important to understand all of the costs involved before you make a move.

Real estate is about more than the purchase price. Taxes, closing costs, insurance, interest rates and local laws can all affect your bottom line.

As a local Santa Clarita REALTOR®, I will continue to keep you updated on California real estate laws and changes that could impact your home, your money and your next move.

If you've been wondering what's happening in the Santa Clarita Valley real estate market, here's your July update!

The market is still moving, but it's definitely different than this time last year. We're seeing fewer homes come on the market, fewer buyers making offers, and fewer homes closing. The good news? Home prices are still holding strong, and buyers have more choices than they did a year ago.

Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the market, here's what you need to know.

Home Prices Are Still Strong

The median sales price for all residential properties in Santa Clarita Valley was $790,000 in July. That's down 9% from last year.

Breaking it down further:

• Single-family homes: Median price of $860,000 (down 4% year over year)
• Condos and townhomes: Median price of $540,000 (down 11% year over year)

While prices have softened slightly, they're still much higher than they were just a few years ago. Well-priced homes that are clean and move-in ready continue to attract buyers.

Fewer Homes Are Hitting the Market

One of the biggest changes this month is the number of new listings.

• 341 new listings
• Down 10% from July 2025

Many homeowners are still choosing to stay put because of their low mortgage interest rates. That continues to limit the number of homes available for sale.

Buyer Activity Has Slowed

We're also seeing fewer buyers making offers compared to last year.

• 149 pending sales
• Down 39% year over year

Closed sales were also lower.

• 237 homes sold
• Down 13% year over year

Higher interest rates continue to affect affordability, causing some buyers to wait before making a move. However, buyers who are actively looking have less competition than they experienced during the last few years.

Homes Are Selling in About 44 Days

The average home sold in 44 days, which is the same as last year.

This tells us the market has found a steady pace. Homes that are priced correctly and marketed well are still selling. Homes that are overpriced are sitting longer and often need price reductions.

This is why pricing your home correctly from the beginning is more important than ever.

Inventory Is Giving Buyers More Options

Santa Clarita currently has 3.7 months of inventory.

A balanced market is generally considered around 4 to 6 months of inventory, so we're getting closer to a more balanced market instead of the extremely competitive seller's market we've seen in recent years.

For buyers, this means:

• More homes to choose from
• More time to make decisions
• Better negotiating opportunities

For sellers, it means preparation matters. Professional photos, smart pricing, and a strong marketing plan can make all the difference.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

If You're Buying

This is a great time to shop. There are more choices, less competition, and you may be able to negotiate repairs, closing costs, or even a better purchase price.

If You're Selling

Homes are still selling, but buyers are being more selective. The homes getting the most attention are the ones that are priced right from day one and presented well.

Every neighborhood is different, so don't rely on national headlines when making your decision.

My Thoughts on the July 2026 Market

Overall, I'd call this a healthy and balanced market.

We're no longer seeing the frenzy of multiple offers on every home, but we're also not seeing prices fall dramatically. Buyers have more breathing room, and sellers who prepare their homes properly are still having success.

Real estate is always local. One neighborhood can perform completely differently than another, which is why it's important to look at the data for your specific area before making a move.

If you've driven through Bouquet Canyon Road lately, you've probably noticed the delays. The current construction project is creating heavier traffic during the week, and it's impacting both commuters and the small businesses that call this area home.

Here's the latest update and how you can help support our local community.

Latest Bouquet Canyon Road Construction Update

Bouquet Canyon Road from Benz Road to Steve Jon Drive is currently reduced to one lane during the work week, which can create significant backups during peak travel times.

The good news? The road is open as normal on weekends, making it a great time to visit the area and support local businesses.

If you're driving through Monday through Friday, plan ahead by:

• Leaving a little earlier.
• Taking an alternate route if possible.
• Allowing extra time during morning and afternoon commute hours.

Support Our Local Businesses

While construction is temporary, many local businesses are seeing fewer customers because of the traffic and road work.

If you're looking for a place to grab lunch, dinner, coffee, or run errands, consider stopping by one of these local businesses:

• La Cocina
• Twisted Kazuyo
• Stamp & Mail Center
• 7-Eleven
• Marci's
• Bouquet Canyon Liquor
• Vincenzo's Pizza
• Thai Basil

These businesses rely on our community, and every visit helps during this challenging time.

Weekends Are the Perfect Time to Visit

Since Bouquet Canyon is fully open on weekends, it's the perfect opportunity to avoid weekday traffic while still supporting these local favorites.

Whether you're picking up pizza for family night, enjoying dinner out, mailing a package, or grabbing a quick snack, your business makes a difference.

Stay Safe and Be Patient

Construction isn't forever, and these improvements will benefit our community in the long run. Until then:

• Plan for extra travel time during the week.
• Use alternate routes if you're in a hurry.
• Remember that the road is open as normal on weekends.
• Most importantly, support the businesses that are working hard through the construction.

A new federal housing law called the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act was recently signed into law, and it's one of the biggest housing bills passed in decades.

The goal is simple: make it easier for Americans to buy a home by increasing housing supply and limiting large institutional investors from buying more single-family homes. While the law won't change the housing market overnight, it could help create more opportunities for everyday buyers over time.

Why Was This Law Created?

Over the past several years, many homebuyers have found themselves competing against large corporations and institutional investors.

These companies often purchased homes with cash, making it harder for families and first-time buyers to compete.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act was designed to help level the playing field while also encouraging more homes to be built across the country.

How Does the Law Affect Large Corporate Buyers?

One of the most talked-about parts of the law is its restriction on large institutional investors.

Under the law, large investors that meet the legal definition—generally those controlling 350 or more single-family homes—face new limits on purchasing additional existing single-family homes, although the law includes several exceptions.

This change is intended to reduce competition between large corporations and families looking to purchase a home.

The Law Does More Than Limit Corporate Buyers

Although the headlines focus on corporate investors, the law includes several other housing reforms.

These include:

• Encouraging the construction of more homes
• Reducing some federal regulatory barriers
• Supporting manufactured housing
• Expanding access to certain smaller mortgage loans
• Helping increase long-term housing affordability

Together, these changes are intended to improve housing availability over time.

Will This Lower Home Prices?

Probably not right away.

Real estate markets are influenced by many factors, including mortgage rates, local inventory, job growth, and buyer demand.

Most housing experts believe this law is a long-term solution, not an immediate fix. Increasing the number of homes available and reducing competition from some large investors could gradually improve affordability, but it will take time.

What Does This Mean for Santa Clarita Homebuyers?

If you're planning to buy a home in Santa Clarita, this is encouraging news.

Combined with today's higher inventory levels, buyers may continue to see:

• More homes to choose from
• Less competition from some large institutional investors
• More opportunities to negotiate
• A healthier, more balanced housing market

Every local market is different, but policies that increase housing supply and support individual buyers can be positive over the long run.

What Sellers Should Know

If you're thinking about selling your home, don't panic.

Well-priced, well-marketed homes are still selling.

Today's market simply requires a strong pricing strategy, professional marketing, and preparation before listing.

The right strategy still makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is an important step toward improving housing affordability and expanding homeownership opportunities.

While it won't solve every housing challenge overnight, it represents a significant effort to increase housing supply and reduce competition from the largest institutional investors.

If you're wondering how today's market or new housing laws could affect your buying or selling plans in Santa Clarita, I'd be happy to help you understand your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act?

It is a new federal housing law designed to improve housing affordability by increasing housing supply, modernizing housing policies, and limiting certain large institutional investors from purchasing additional existing single-family homes.

Does the law ban all investors from buying homes?

No. The law targets certain large institutional investors that meet specific legal thresholds and includes several exceptions. Individual investors and many smaller real estate businesses are not affected in the same way.

Will home prices go down?

Not immediately. Most experts expect the impact to be gradual as additional housing supply comes online and the market adjusts.

If you're wondering whether now is a good time to buy or sell a home in Santa Clarita, you're not alone. Every month, I break down the local housing market so you can make informed decisions without all the confusing real estate jargon.

Here's what happened in the Santa Clarita real estate market this month.

Home Prices Continue to Stay Strong

Even though the market has slowed down, home values in Santa Clarita remain steady.

• Median sales price for single-family homes: $875,000
• Median sales price for condos and townhomes: $577,000

This tells us that well-priced homes in good condition are still attracting buyers.

Condo Sales Are Up Compared to Last Year

Here's some encouraging news.

Condo sales increased compared to the same time last year.

This is great for first-time homebuyers, investors, and anyone looking for a more affordable way to own a home in Santa Clarita.

With interest rates still affecting affordability, many buyers are choosing condos and townhomes over single-family homes.

More Homes Are Hitting the Market

We currently have about 4 months of housing inventory.

That means buyers have more homes to choose from than they did a year ago.

As inventory grows, the market becomes more balanced. Buyers have a little more time to make decisions and may have more room to negotiate on price, repairs, or seller credits.

For sellers, this means pricing your home correctly is more important than ever. Homes that are overpriced are often sitting on the market longer.

Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell

The average days on market is now 37 days.

Compared to the fast-paced market we experienced over the last few years, buyers are taking a little more time before writing offers.

That doesn't mean homes aren't selling—it simply means today's buyers have more options and are being more selective.

Closed Sales and Pending Sales Are Down

We're also seeing fewer homes going under contract and fewer homes closing compared to previous months.

This doesn't necessarily mean the market is crashing.

Instead, it shows that buyers are moving more cautiously while sellers are adjusting to today's market conditions.

What This Means for Buyers

If you're thinking about buying a home in Santa Clarita, this could be a great opportunity.

Benefits for buyers include:

• More homes to choose from
• Less competition in many price ranges
• More negotiating power
• Potential seller credits and price reductions

Buying in a balanced market can often lead to better long-term value than buying during a bidding-war market.

What This Means for Sellers

Homes are still selling, but strategy matters.

To stand out, sellers should:

• Price the home correctly from day one
• Prepare the home before listing
• Use professional photos and video
• Market the property across multiple platforms

The homes receiving the most attention are the ones that are clean, move-in ready, and priced competitively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Santa Clarita a buyer's or seller's market?

Santa Clarita is moving toward a more balanced market. With about four months of inventory, buyers have more choices and slightly more negotiating power, while sellers can still achieve strong prices with the right pricing and marketing strategy.

Are home prices dropping in Santa Clarita?

Not at this time. The median sales price remains strong at $875,000 for single-family homes and $577,000 for condos and townhomes.

How long does it take to sell a home in Santa Clarita?

The average home is selling in about 37 days, although desirable homes that are priced correctly can still sell much faster.

Should I buy a home now or wait?

That depends on your goals. Today's buyers have more inventory, less competition, and more opportunities to negotiate than they did over the past few years. If you find the right home and it fits your budget, this market offers some advantages.

First Impressions Matter More Than Ever

If you're thinking about selling your home, you may be wondering what you should do before putting it on the market.

The truth is that buyers are becoming more selective. With more homes available and higher interest rates, buyers want homes that feel clean, well-maintained, and move-in ready.

The good news? You don't need a complete remodel to make a great impression.

Here are the most important steps to take before listing your home for sale.

Declutter and Depersonalize Your Space

One of the easiest and most effective things you can do is remove excess clutter and personal items.

Buyers need to picture themselves living in the home. That can be difficult when family photos, collections, and personal belongings are everywhere.

Before listing your home:

• Remove excess furniture
• Clear countertops
• Organize closets
• Pack away personal photos
• Minimize decorations

A clean and open space will make rooms feel larger and more inviting.

Make Small Repairs and Touch-Ups

You don't have to spend thousands of dollars on renovations before selling.

Instead, focus on small repairs that can make a big difference.

Consider:

• Touching up paint
• Replacing burned-out light bulbs
• Fixing leaky faucets
• Repairing damaged screens
• Tightening loose hardware
• Cleaning grout and caulking

These simple improvements show buyers that the home has been cared for.

Fresh Paint Can Go a Long Way

A fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable ways to improve your home's appearance.

Neutral colors help create a bright and welcoming environment that appeals to a larger number of buyers.

Fresh paint also photographs better, which is important because most buyers begin their home search online.

Focus on Curb Appeal

Buyers often make their first impression before they even walk through the front door.

That means your exterior matters.

Simple ways to improve curb appeal include:

• Mowing the lawn
• Trimming bushes
• Adding fresh mulch
• Cleaning walkways
• Washing windows
• Touching up the front door

A clean and inviting exterior encourages buyers to want to see more.

Deep Clean Everything

A clean home can make a huge difference in how buyers feel during a showing.

Pay special attention to:

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Baseboards
• Windows
• Flooring
• Light fixtures

Don't forget about odors. Buyers notice smells immediately.

A home that smells fresh and clean creates a positive experience.

Stage Your Home for Success

Home staging helps buyers visualize how they would use the space.

You don't always need professional staging, but a few simple adjustments can help.

Try:

• Fluffing pillows
• Adding fresh towels
• Opening blinds for natural light
• Removing bulky furniture
• Creating inviting seating areas

The goal is to make the home feel bright, spacious, and welcoming.

Call a Real Estate Professional Before Spending Money

Many homeowners start making upgrades before talking to a realtor.

Unfortunately, this can lead to spending money on projects that won't increase the home's value.

Before making improvements, speak with a local real estate expert.

A realtor can help you determine:

• Which repairs are worth doing
• Which updates buyers expect
• How to maximize your return on investment
• What improvements can help your home sell faster

Every home is different, and the right strategy can save you time and money.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your home for sale doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Start by decluttering, making small repairs, cleaning thoroughly, and focusing on first impressions. These simple steps can help attract more buyers and potentially lead to a faster sale.

If you're thinking about selling your home in Santa Clarita, Valencia, Saugus, Canyon Country, Stevenson Ranch, or the surrounding areas, I'd be happy to help you create a personalized plan to get your home market-ready.

Looking for a Home Online? You're Not Getting the Full Story

Most buyers start their home search online. Websites like Zillow make it easy to browse homes, look at photos, and check estimated values.

But here's the truth: Zillow won't tell you everything about a house.

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. While online tools are helpful, they can't replace the guidance of an experienced real estate agent.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Santa Clarita, Valencia, Saugus, Canyon Country, Stevenson Ranch, or anywhere in Southern California, here's why working with a realtor is so important.

Zillow Doesn't Negotiate for You

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a realtor is having someone negotiate on your behalf.

A real estate agent can help you:

• Determine a fair offer price
• Negotiate repairs after inspections
• Request seller credits
• Understand market conditions
• Avoid overpaying for a home

Online estimates can change dramatically once a property is listed. A realtor understands what homes are actually selling for and what terms are common in today's market.

A Realtor Can Spot Red Flags Before You Buy

Not all homes are created equal.

Some properties may have issues that aren't obvious from online photos.

A realtor can help identify concerns such as:

• HOA financial problems
• Insurance challenges
• Special assessments
• Non-warrantable condos
• Neighborhood resale concerns
• Property condition issues

These factors can affect your ability to get financing, insure the property, or sell it later.

Knowing these issues before making an offer can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.

The Escrow Process Can Be Complicated

Many buyers think finding the home is the hard part.

In reality, getting through escrow can be even more challenging.

There are deadlines, disclosures, inspections, appraisals, loan requirements, and a mountain of paperwork.

Missing an important deadline could create delays or even put your earnest money deposit at risk.

A realtor helps guide you through every step of the transaction and keeps everything moving forward.

Realtors Help Protect Your Investment

A good realtor does much more than open doors and show homes.

They help protect your interests throughout the entire process.

Your agent can:

• Explain contracts
• Review disclosures
• Coordinate inspections
• Negotiate repairs
• Communicate with lenders and escrow
• Help solve problems before they become major issues

Having a professional in your corner can make the home buying experience much smoother.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

Every real estate market is different.

An experienced local realtor understands:

• Neighborhood trends
• School districts
• HOA communities
• New construction developments
• Market values
• Future growth plans

This local knowledge helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

Online home search websites are a great place to start, but they should never be your only source of information.

Zillow can show you homes for sale, but it won't negotiate for you, identify red flags, explain contracts, or guide you through escrow.

That's where a trusted realtor comes in.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Santa Clarita or the surrounding areas, I'd be happy to help answer your questions and guide you through the process.

The right advice today can save you time, money, and stress tomorrow.

Is It a Good Time to Buy or Sell a Home in Santa Clarita?

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Santa Clarita, it's important to understand what the market is doing. Every month, we review local housing data to help homeowners and buyers make smart decisions.

The May 2026 Santa Clarita real estate market is showing signs of change. Buyers have more options, while sellers need to focus on proper pricing and strong marketing.

Santa Clarita Home Prices in May 2026

The median sale price for residential property in Santa Clarita is now $800,000, which is down about 3% from last year.

Single-family homes are still performing well, with a median sale price of $892,000, up 4% year over year.

Condominiums have seen more price pressure, with a median sale price of $515,000, down 11% from last year.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, this can create opportunities. Some sellers may be more willing to negotiate on price, closing costs, or repairs than they were a few years ago.

Santa Clarita Housing Inventory Is Growing

There are currently 3.6 months of inventory in Santa Clarita.

Inventory refers to how many homes are available for sale compared to the number of buyers purchasing homes.

When inventory increases:

• Buyers have more homes to choose from.
• Sellers face more competition.
• Homes may take longer to sell.

This is helping create a more balanced real estate market.

Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell

The average days on market increased to 42 days.

This means homes are taking a little longer to go under contract than they were last year.

Tips for Sellers

If you're planning to sell your home in Santa Clarita, consider:

• Pricing your home correctly from day one.
• Completing small repairs before listing.
• Decluttering and cleaning the property.
• Using professional photography and video.
• Working with a local real estate expert who understands the market.

The homes that are priced right and marketed properly are still selling.

Fewer Homes Are Going Into Escrow

Pending sales were down 42% year over year, and new listings were down 18% year over year.

Many buyers are still adjusting to mortgage interest rates, which has slowed some activity.

However, serious buyers are still entering the market every day. Families continue to relocate, first-time buyers are looking for opportunities, and homeowners are still making life changes that require a move.

Should You Buy a Home in Santa Clarita Right Now?

Many buyers are asking whether they should wait.

The truth is that nobody knows exactly what home prices or interest rates will do in the future.

Right now, buyers are seeing:

• More inventory.
• Less competition than during the peak market.
• Better negotiation opportunities.
• More seller credits and repair requests being accepted.

For many buyers, today's market can provide advantages that were not available a few years ago.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Clarita Real Estate Market

The Santa Clarita housing market continues to shift toward a more balanced environment.

While home sales have slowed and inventory has increased, well-priced homes are still selling. Buyers are gaining more negotiating power, and sellers who prepare their homes properly can still achieve strong results.

Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or simply curious about your home's value, understanding local market trends is the first step.