A Strategic Market Breakdown for Buyers and Sellers The 2026 housing market is not reversing — it’s recalibrating. After several years of rapid price growth, we are now seeing a transition into a more measured environment:  Price growth has slowed  Inventory is gradually improving  Mortgage rates are slightly more favorable than last year But here’s the key distinction:  A slower market is not a weaker market — it’s a more selective one. In today’s conditions, outcomes are no longer driven by momentum. They are driven by strategy, pricing discipline, and timing aligned with individual goals. Key Takeaways: 2026 Housing Market The housing market is stabilizing, not declining Price growth has slowed to low single-digit levels Inventory is improving, but supply remains limited relative to historical norms Buyers have more options, but are more selective Sellers must focus on accurate pricing and positioning What’s Actually Happening in the 2026 Housing Market According to the National Association of Realtors, home price growth has slowed to levels much closer to inflation. That shift signals something important: The market is stabilizing — not declining. According to the  Compass San Mateo County March 2026 Real Estate Market Report , home values across core segments remain elevated, with typical pricing for 3–4 bedroom homes generally ranging from the high-$1M to mid-$2M range, indicating price stability at elevated levels rather than downward pressure. In a supply-constrained market, stabilization typically appears first in negotiation dynamics and time on market — not in visible price declines. In practice, this means:  We are no longer seeing rapid appreciation across all segments  Pricing is becoming more sensitive to local supply and demand  Buyers have more negotiating leverage than in previous years A Slower Market Changes Behavior — Not Just Numbers One of the biggest misconceptions right now is that a slower market simply means “less activity.” What we’re actually seeing is a change in behavior:  Buyers are more selective and deliberate  Sellers need to be more precise with pricing  Deals require stronger positioning and negotiation Compass San Mateo County data shows that a significant portion of homes continue to sell above asking price, indicating that while competition remains, outcomes are increasingly dependent on accurate pricing and property positioning. In real-world transactions, this shows up clearly: well-priced homes continue to attract attention overpriced listings sit longer and require adjustments buyers are willing to act — but only when the value is clearly supported by the market. Across current transactions, pricing misalignment is more often corrected through extended market exposure rather than immediate price reductions. This is no longer a momentum-driven market. It is a decision-driven market. Mortgage Rates: Why Small Changes Are Driving Big Decisions Mortgage rates remain one of the most influential factors shaping demand. While rates are only slightly lower than last year, the impact is disproportionate: small rate improvements increase affordability monthly payment sensitivity remains high buyers are recalculating budgets more carefully According to the Compass San Mateo County report, mortgage rates in early 2026 remain in the mid-6% range, continuing to directly influence affordability and timing decisions for buyers. What we’re seeing in practice:  Buyers are not rushing back into the market — they are re-entering selectively, often aligning decisions with financing clarity rather than urgency. This is reflected in buyer behavior, where decisions are increasingly tied to monthly payment thresholds rather than headline price alone. This creates uneven demand: strong activity in well-positioned homes hesitation in marginal or overpriced inventory. Inventory Is Improving — But Not Enough to Shift the Market Inventory levels are increasing compared to last year, supported by:  More new listings  Continued new construction supply But here’s the key:  Supply is improving — not abundant. The Compass San Mateo County report indicates that while active listings have increased year-over-year, inventory remains relatively low compared to historical norms, continuing to limit overall supply. This leads to a consistent pattern: more choice for buyers, but not enough supply to shift pricing power materially. This balance is what’s stabilizing prices:  More options for buyers But still enough scarcity to prevent significant declines In most markets, this results in: longer days on market compared to peak conditions more negotiation flexibility in certain segments but continued price support overall Market Activity: Mixed Signals, Clear Direction Recent housing data reflects a combination of trends:  Existing home sales have modestly rebounded  New home sales have softened in some segments  Pending home sales show gradual improvement According to Compass San Mateo County data, contract activity remains steady with modest year-over-year variation, reflecting consistent — though more measured — buyer demand. Individually, these signals may seem mixed. Together, they point to one conclusion: The market is stabilizing into a more balanced state. Not accelerating. Not declining. Adjusting. Buyer Behavior in 2026: More Choice, More Caution Buyers today have more options than they did in previous years — but they are also more cautious. What we’re seeing across the market:  Buyers taking longer to evaluate decisions  Increased sensitivity to pricing and condition  More negotiation around terms and concessions At the same time, there is clear pent-up demand:  Many buyers are still waiting  But ready to act when conditions align Compass San Mateo County data also shows that months-of-supply remains relatively low across key segments, indicating that underlying demand continues to support the market despite more cautious buyer behavior. This creates a dynamic where demand exists — but it is conditional, not automatic. What This Means for Sellers For sellers, the shift to a more balanced market changes the strategy significantly. The biggest difference from previous years:  Pricing matters more than ever. In this environment:  Overpricing leads to extended time on market  Price reductions can weaken positioning  Properly priced homes still move efficiently According to the Compass San Mateo County report, homes priced in alignment with recent comparable sales continue to achieve stronger outcomes, while mispriced listings tend to experience longer market exposure. Observed outcomes show that well-positioned homes continue to transact efficiently when pricing aligns with current market conditions. Well-positioned homes continue to sell while aspirational pricing strategies are no longer holding. FAQ Will home prices drop in 2026? Home prices are expected to remain stable or increase slightly. Most forecasts point to low single-digit growth due to limited supply and steady demand. Is the housing market expected to crash in 2026?   A housing market crash is unlikely. Strong homeowner equity and stable lending practices continue to support market stability. Are mortgage rates going down in 2026?   Mortgage rates may fluctuate, but even small decreases can improve affordability and influence buyer demand. Is 2026 a good time to buy a home?   For many buyers, 2026 offers more options and greater negotiation flexibility. The right time depends on financial readiness and long-term goals. Should I wait to sell my home in 2026?   Waiting is not always the best strategy. Homes that are priced correctly and presented well continue to sell in today’s market. Success in this market is no longer about reacting to trends — it’s about making informed, strategic decisions. Whether buying or selling, the strongest outcomes come from alignment, timing, and execution. Let’s position your next move with clarity and confidence. Source: compass.com Source: forbes.com

San Mateo Real Estate Outlook: Spring 2026 Market Analysis Entering the peak spring 2026 cycle, the San Mateo housing market is split into two distinct speeds: robust single-family home demand and a more tempered condominium sector. After years of market recalibration, general appreciation has been replaced by value-specific growth, making an understanding of property tiers and square-footage pricing essential. As a premier real estate destination, San Mateo currently requires a strategic, analytical mindset for anyone looking to navigate these diverging sectoral momentums. 2026 Market Highlights: San Mateo County The March Inventory Surge:  Following established seasonal patterns for early March, new listings have climbed approximately 28%  over the last 30 days. For buyers, this represents the highest volume of options available since the start of the year. Single-Family Resilience:  Demand for detached houses remains incredibly firm, with market interest trending toward a 4% to 5% increase  in value year-over-year. Driven by local equity, well-positioned homes in move-in condition are frequently receiving multiple offers within the first 10 days of listing. The Condo Opportunity:  The "Condo Divergence" has widened this March. Interest rate sensitivity has caused this segment to soften, with values dipping nearly 6%  compared to last spring. This has created a rare "Buyer’s Market" window within an otherwise competitive region. The "Luxury" Footprint:  High-net-worth buyers continue a "flight to quality." The largest residences ( 3,500+ sq. ft. ) are commanding a significant premium, averaging approximately $1,385 per sq. ft. , as the demand for dedicated home offices and expansive outdoor lots remains a primary driver. Regional Pricing Power:  San Mateo County continues to hold the highest median sales prices in the Greater Bay Area for standard 4-bedroom family homes, consistently outpacing neighboring Santa Clara and San Francisco. Market Context & Commentary According to the Compass March 2026 San Mateo County Market Report , the current landscape is characterized by a "return to normalcy" following the volatility of the early 2020s. The data shows that while the "Great Recession" and the "High-Tech Boom" were the defining eras of the previous two decades, 2026 is defined by seasonal stability. For Sellers, the data indicates we are entering the peak window of the 2026 cycle. With houses seeing consistent annual lifts, those who position their properties in March and April are likely to hit the "sweet spot" of buyer demand. For Buyers, the current data reveals a strategic opening. While larger luxury homes are appreciating, smaller houses (under 1,400 sq. ft.) and the condo market have seen slight dips in value. This provides a rare entry point into the San Mateo market at a lower cost-of-entry than in previous years. San Mateo Market FAQs 1. Is March 2026 a "Buyer's Market" or a "Seller's Market"? It is a fragmented market. For single-family homes, it remains a lean seller's market due to inventory constraints. For condos, it has shifted toward a buyer’s market, offering more room for negotiation and flexibility. 2. How much should I expect to pay per square foot this month? It depends heavily on size. The largest homes (3,500+ sq. ft.) command the highest premium at approximately $1,385 per sq. ft., while mid-sized family homes (2,000–2,749 sq. ft.) are averaging around $1,123 per sq. ft. 3. When will inventory be at its highest? Based on current March trends, we expect a steady climb in new listings through April and May. Buyers looking for the most variety should prepare for a significant increase in options over the next 60 days. Planning Your Next Move Whether you are looking to capitalize on the softening condo market or sell a high-demand 4-bedroom family home, timing is everything in March. Ready to navigate the March market?  The Benson Group is here to help you decode these trends and build a custom strategy for the spring season! Source: compass.com

Main Highlights Record Fourth Quarter: Compass delivered its strongest quarter in company history in Q4 2025, reflecting accelerating momentum entering 2026. Revenue Growth Accelerated: Both quarterly and full-year revenue increased significantly year-over-year, underscoring renewed transaction activity. Operational Strength Improved: Increased operating cash flow reflects financial discipline and platform stability in a shifting housing environment. Market Share Expansion: Well-capitalized brokerages continue consolidating share, strengthening technology, marketing reach, and agent productivity. 2026 Outlook: Stabilization Over Volatility: The data suggests normalization — not a surge or slowdown — with strategic opportunities for both buyers and sellers. As the housing market transitions into 2026, fourth-quarter performance offers one of the clearest indicators of direction. According to Compass’s official press release, the company reported record Q4 revenue, substantial year-over-year growth, higher transaction volume, and strong operating cash flow — signaling resilience and operational strength during a period of broader market adjustment. For buyers and sellers, brokerage-level performance is more than corporate news. It reflects transaction velocity, consumer confidence, and the health of the markets where homes are actually changing hands. Below is a data-driven breakdown of what these results mean — and how they translate into actionable insight at the local level. Why Q4 Performance Matters Fourth-quarter data is especially important because it reflects buyer and seller behavior heading into the new year. When a brokerage posts record revenue and increased transactions in Q4, it typically signals: Increased buyer engagement Sellers re-entering the market Improved absorption rates Continued demand in competitive segments Operational resilience during rate fluctuations In transitional markets, transaction growth often signals adaptation rather than hesitation. What This Means for Buyers in 2026 Are buyers active again?  Yes. Rising transaction volume in Q4 suggests motivated buyers are moving forward despite economic uncertainty. Will competition return?  In select markets, yes — particularly where inventory remains limited. However, today’s buyers are more strategic and data-driven. Is there opportunity?  Yes. Stabilizing conditions create room for negotiation, especially for prepared buyers who understand local inventory dynamics. What This Means for Sellers in 2026 Is demand still present?  Record Q4 performance indicates continued demand, particularly for well-priced and properly marketed homes. What matters most now?  Precision. Pricing aligned with current buyer psychology is critical. Is timing still important?  Yes — but preparation and positioning matter more than rushing to market. National Momentum vs. Local Strategy Strong national Q4 results provide macro-level reassurance, but outcomes remain hyperlocal. Buyers and sellers should evaluate: Local inventory trends Days on market Absorption rates Neighborhood-specific pricing dynamics Segment performance (entry, move-up, luxury) Understanding both the broader market signals and your specific ZIP code conditions is what drives successful outcomes. 2026 Market Outlook: Precision Over Pressure The market appears to be transitioning from volatility into strategic balance: Less frenzy More data-driven decisions Professional marketing advantage Platform-driven exposure Brokerage growth suggests the industry is stabilizing — not contracting. Final Takeaway Compass’s record Q4 performance reinforces a defining 2026 theme: activity is building, but strategy determines results. Buyers who move decisively with data gain leverage. Sellers who position precisely capture demand. This is not a market of extremes — it’s a market of informed execution. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in 2026, start with clarity and a smart strategy. Contact The Benson Group  for a personalized market review and expert guidance tailored to your goals — straightforward advice, no pressure, just results-driven insight. Source:

Benson Group is a full service Real Estate Team proudly representing Compass in Burlingame. 1467 Cabrillo Ave Burlingame Let Our Legacy Help Build Yours We started the Benso n Group with a singular mission: client success. We understand that buying or selling a home is a monumental investment, and we approach it with the gravity i t deserves. We blend seasoned expertise, innovative strategies, and the powerful synergy of a family partnership to consistently achieve exceptional results for our clients. Schedule a Consultation BUYERS Get access to the most homes, both on and off the market. "They took the time to understand our hopes and budget, which helped them to keep our searches focused on the right houses rather than just every house that met the Zillow filters." Clarke Family | Buyers SELLERS Don't worry, we'll take care of everything. "When the time to sell arrived, Laurie and Andrew coordinated every aspect including photos, promotional materials, inspections, staging and pricing and at each step kept up a steady line of communication." Jay and Maria | Sellers Burlingame The "City of Trees", excellent schools, and walkability. View More San Mateo Sprawling downtown, great for a night out. Great school system. View More Hillsborough Charming, luxury community in the heart of the Peninsula. Award winning schools. View More Foster City Innovative lagoon system offering waterfront lifestyle. View More Communities Work With Us Laurie and Andrew Benson bring a dynamic blend of experience, innovation, and family synergy to deliver exceptional results for their clients. As lifelong residents, they provide a unique local perspective complemented by expertise in negotiation and marketing. With their dedicated team, they consistently exceed client expectations, ensuring an engaging and successful real estate journey. Schedule a Consultation What Clients Say "Laurie and Andrew are extremely professional and you could always be sure that every step of any transaction would be conducted thoroughly, expertly and in a very timely manner." Jess and Romy | Burlingame Sellers Keep in touch Email Join Our Mailing List Subscribed!

Beautifully updated & thoughtfully designed home offers the perfect blend of style & comfort enhanced with multiple smart home features. The entry level welcomes you into a modern shaker-style kitchen featuring frosted glass display cabinetry & granite counters. The adjoining dining area opens to the back patio. The inviting living room is highlighted by recessed lighting & a decorative tile fireplace w/wood mantel, & direct access to the private rear yard. A stylish powder room w/tile flooring. A skylight brightens the stairway to upper level. Impressive primary suite features a versatile loft ideal for a home office and an ensuite bathroom w/large walk-in shower w/steam feature. Two additional bedrooms offer vaulted ceilings & spacious closets, & full hall bath w/soaking tub & shower. A dedicated laundry area w/washer and dryer. The renovated private rear yard, offers paver patio, mature trees/vines, decking & built-in bench seating. Additional highlights include hardwood flooring, dual-pane windows, abundant storage, and an attached 2 car garage w/storage options. HOA dues include pool, trash, water, exterior maintenance including roof, foundation & siding, all just steps from parks, top-rated schools, & shopping. < Back 146 Albacore Ln, Foster City $1,400,000 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 3 2.5 1,630 sqft 1986 Sold Beautifully updated & thoughtfully designed home offers the perfect blend of style & comfort enhanced with multiple smart home features. The entry level welcomes you into a modern shaker-style kitchen featuring frosted glass display cabinetry & granite counters. The adjoining dining area opens to the back patio. The inviting living room is highlighted by recessed lighting & a decorative tile fireplace w/wood mantel, & direct access to the private rear yard. A stylish powder room w/tile flooring. A skylight brightens the stairway to upper level. Impressive primary suite features a versatile loft ideal for a home office and an ensuite bathroom w/large walk-in shower w/steam feature. Two additional bedrooms offer vaulted ceilings & spacious closets, & full hall bath w/soaking tub & shower. A dedicated laundry area w/washer and dryer. The renovated private rear yard, offers paver patio, mature trees/vines, decking & built-in bench seating. Additional highlights include hardwood flooring, dual-pane windows, abundant storage, and an attached 2 car garage w/storage options. HOA dues include pool, trash, water, exterior maintenance including roof, foundation & siding, all just steps from parks, top-rated schools, & shopping. Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com

Benson Group Properties Properties Sold 146 Albacore Ln, Foster City $1,400,000 Bed 3 Bath 2.5 Size 1,630 sqft Off-Market 16 Engle Rd, San Mateo $2,250,000 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,360 sqft Sold 313 Seville Way, San Mateo $2,524,150 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,720 sqft Leased 719 W Poplar Ave, San Mateo $16,000/mo Bed 4 Bath 2.5 Size 3,675 sqft For Sale 1625 Palmetto Ave, Pacifica $3,294,000 Bed 8 Bath 8 Size 7,480 sqft Sold 647 Vanessa Dr, San Mateo $1,920,000 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,400 sqft Leased 105 Pepper Ave, Burlingame $11,000/mo Bed 4 Bath 2 Size 2,340 sqft Sold 1133 Paloma Ave, Burlingame Price Withheld Bed 11 Bath 9 Size ~8,000 sqft Sold 1201 Bernal Ave, Burlingame $2,900,000 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,730 sqft Sold 2721 Fairbrook Dr, Mountain View $4,150,000 Bed 4 Bath 3 Size 2,307 sqft Sold 132 Lakeshore Dr, Burlingame $2,650,000 Bed 3 Bath 2.5 Size 1,470 sqft Sold 703 W Poplar Ave, San Mateo Price Withheld Bed 4 Bath 4.5 Size 3,285 sqft