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San Mateo County Real Estate Market Update | February 2026

San Mateo in 2026: Is It the Right Time to Buy or Sell?


San Mateo enters February 2026 with a market that is steadily regaining momentum after the winter slowdown. Inventory is rising, pricing remains firm, and buyer activity is increasing as the spring cycle begins to take shape. Buyers still have strategic opportunities early in the season, while sellers who prepare and position now are best placed to capture peak spring demand. Main Highlights:

  • Price momentum is holding into February. San Mateo County home prices remain firm as the market moves deeper into early spring. The upward trend established at the start of 2026 continues, reinforcing long-term price resilience rather than signaling short-term volatility.

  • Condos continue to trail single-family homes. Condo pricing remains softer compared to houses, reflecting ongoing buyer selectivity and greater price sensitivity in this segment. This divergence has become more pronounced as spring activity begins to build.

  • Inventory growth is clearly underway. By February, new listings are rising steadily from winter lows, confirming the seasonal inventory rebuild. This increase is expanding buyer choice without putting downward pressure on overall pricing.

  • Buyer and luxury activity are beginning to re-engage. More homes are moving into contract as buyers return to the market, while luxury activity remains measured but is starting to reawaken ahead of its typical spring rebound.

Market Context & Commentary

According to the Compass San Mateo County Market Report, February 2026 data shows the market entering a normal early-spring transition rather than a period of weakness. Pricing remains firm, supported by continued demand for single-family homes — particularly 3- and 4-bedroom properties that anchor buyer activity.

Condo performance remains more selective, reflecting greater price sensitivity, while inventory and contract activity are rebuilding in a typical seasonal sequence. Listings are rising first, with buyer engagement following, signaling improving market balance rather than overheating.

Over the long term, San Mateo real estate has demonstrated consistent resilience across multiple market cycles. As the year progresses, success increasingly favors disciplined pricing, strong presentation, and informed decision-making as competition builds toward spring. San Mateo Market FAQs

1. When is the best time to buy in San Mateo in 2026?

February still offers meaningful opportunities, particularly before peak spring competition intensifies. Negotiation leverage is narrowing compared to winter, but remains available on well-selected properties.

2. Will inventory continue to improve in 2026?

Yes. Inventory growth that began in January is clearly underway and is expected to continue building through March and April.

3. What property types remain most resilient?

Single-family homes — especially 3- and 4-bedroom properties — continue to lead demand, while condos require more precise pricing and longer timelines.


Considering a move to San Mateo in 2026? Benson Group can help you make sense of today's data and build a thoughtful strategy — whether you're preparing for spring activity or exploring off-season options.







Source: compass.com


 
 
 

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