Homebuyers Are Scoring Record Discounts

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The real estate market has shifted dramatically, and 2025 brought some of the most favorable buying conditions we've seen in over a decade. If you've been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the right moment to make your move, this might be the signal you've been looking for.

A Buyer's Market Like We Haven't Seen in Years

The typical homebuyer who purchased a property for below the list price in 2025 secured a discount of nearly eight percent, the largest since 2012. This represents a significant shift from the intense bidding wars and over-asking-price offers that characterized the pandemic-era housing market.

What's even more remarkable is that nearly two-thirds of all homebuyers last year paid less than the asking price, marking the highest share since 2019. Meanwhile, fewer than one in four buyers paid above the list price, representing the lowest percentage in that same timeframe.

In concrete terms, buyers who negotiated successfully saved an average of over thirty-one thousand dollars on their home purchases last year. Even when considering all buyers, including those who paid asking price or above, the average discount was close to four percent, translating to more than fifteen thousand dollars in savings.

The Power of Patience: Buyers Scoring Double-Digit Discounts

One of the most compelling trends from 2025 is that roughly one-quarter of homebuyers who paid below asking price managed to secure discounts of ten percent or more. This represents the highest share of substantial discounts we've seen since 2012, demonstrating just how much negotiating power has shifted to buyers.

This market dynamic exists because there are now significantly more sellers than buyers, giving those who are actively searching both options and leverage. Many sellers, particularly those who purchased during the pandemic peak, are still pricing their homes based on the inflated values of that era rather than current market realities.

Why Orange County Buyers Should Pay Attention

While national trends are certainly eye-opening, understanding how these dynamics play out locally is crucial. The current market environment means that even if you find a home slightly above your budget, there's a genuine opportunity to negotiate meaningful concessions, whether that's a price reduction, credits toward closing costs, or funds for necessary repairs.

This marks a complete reversal from just a few years ago, when buyers were advised to search well below their maximum budget to account for inevitable bidding wars and over-asking offers. Today's market rewards those who are strategic, patient, and work with experienced local agents who understand how to navigate negotiations effectively.

Property Types and Price Points Matter

The data reveals interesting variations across different property types. Condo buyers, in particular, have been able to secure even larger discounts, with the typical discount reaching just over eight percent for those who paid below asking price. This trend reflects ongoing concerns about rising HOA fees, insurance costs, and special assessments that have made some buyers more cautious about condominium purchases.

What This Means for Your Home Search

If you're considering a move to Orange County, current market conditions present a unique opportunity. The key is understanding that sellers are operating in an environment where demand has softened considerably from pandemic levels, even though many haven't fully adjusted their pricing expectations yet.

This creates a window for informed buyers to negotiate favorable terms. However, it's important to recognize that market dynamics can vary significantly from neighborhood to neighborhood within Orange County. What's true for one community may not apply to another, which is why working with someone who has deep local market knowledge is more important than ever.

Bottomline

The 2025 housing market delivered the strongest buyer's market we've seen in recent history, with discounts reaching levels not witnessed since 2012. For those considering a move to Orange County, these trends suggest that patience, strategic searching, and skilled negotiation can yield significant savings.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer looking to enter the market or a current homeowner considering a move within or to Orange County, understanding these market dynamics is essential. The landscape has fundamentally changed from the frenzied competition of recent years, creating opportunities for those positioned to take advantage of them.

If you're thinking about making Orange County your home, now is an excellent time to explore what's available. As someone who lives and works in this community, I'd be happy to discuss how these broader market trends are playing out in specific Orange County neighborhoods and help you identify opportunities that align with your goals. Let's connect and explore how we can make your Orange County real estate dreams a reality.

Reference: Katz, L., & Khan, A. (2026, February 1). Homebuyers are scoring the biggest discounts in 13 years. Redfin.