A Strong Start with Opportunity Across Ventura County
As we move through 2026, the first-quarter real estate data across Ventura County and the Conejo Valley paint a clear and encouraging picture. While the market continues to evolve, the underlying theme remains steady: demand is holding, values are resilient, and opportunities exist for both buyers and sellers who approach the market strategically.
Here is a breakdown of what we are seeing so far this year and what it means for you.
Ventura County Overview
Stability, Strength, and a Shift Toward Balance
Ventura County continues to show impressive year-over-year stability. Closed sales remained essentially unchanged, with 1,242 homes sold in Q1 2026 compared to 1,239 in 2025. This tells us that buyer demand remains strong, even as the market adjusts to current interest rates. Closed volume increased slightly to over $2.68 billion, and the average sales price held steady at just over $1.08 million. This consistency reinforces that home values are not declining, but instead stabilizing at strong levels.
The price per square foot saw a modest adjustment from $564 to $554, a healthy sign of normalization rather than a downturn. At the same time, homes are taking a bit longer to sell, with average days on market increasing from 47 to 54.
Sellers are also receiving slightly less of their original asking price, moving from 98.0% to 96.9%. This shift indicates a market that is becoming more balanced, where pricing strategy matters more than ever.
New listings fell from 2,426 to 2,237, indicating inventory remains somewhat constrained. This continues to support home values and creates opportunity for well-prepared sellers.
WHAT THIS MEANS:
The county is transitioning into a more thoughtful market. Buyers have more room to evaluate options, while sellers who price and present their homes correctly are still achieving strong results.
Thousand Oaks
Strong Pricing Power and Highly Motivated Buyers
Thousand Oaks continues to stand out for its pricing strength and competitive buyer activity.
While closed sales decreased from 69 to 53, pricing metrics moved in a very positive direction. The average sales price increased to $1,249,898, and the price per square foot rose slightly to $575.
Perhaps the most notable metric is the average percentage of original price, which increased to an impressive 99.5%. This means sellers are getting very close to their asking price, a clear sign that demand for well-positioned homes remains strong.
Homes are also selling quickly, with average days on market decreasing slightly from 38 to 37.
WHAT THIS MEANS:
Even with fewer transactions, serious buyers are competing for quality homes. Sellers who enter the market well-prepared and priced competitively are being rewarded.
Newbury Park
Growing Inventory Creating New Opportunities
Newbury Park saw a noticeable increase in new listings, rising from 44 to 65. This is one of the most important shifts in the local market.
With more homes available, buyers have more choices, leading to a slight decrease in closed sales and overall volume. However, pricing remains strong, with the average sales price increasing to $1,200,513 and price per square foot rising to $542.
Homes are also selling faster, with days on market improving from 51 to 44.
WHAT THIS MEANS:
This is a great environment for buyers who have been waiting for more options. For sellers, it reinforces the importance of standing out through presentation, marketing, and pricing.
Westlake Village
Luxury Market Momentum
and Significant Price Growth
Westlake Village delivered one of the most impressive performances in Q1 2026.
Closed sales remained steady at 25 transactions, but the total closed volume surged dramatically to over $104 million. This is driven by a significant increase in the average sales price, which jumped to just over $2 million.
While the price per square foot adjusted slightly from $749 to $727, the overall increase in home values highlights strong demand, particularly in the luxury segment.
Homes are taking longer to sell, with days on market rising from 31 to 46, and sellers are receiving slightly less than their original asking price compared to last year.
WHAT THIS MEANS:
The Westlake Village market is thriving at the high end. Buyers are willing to invest in premium properties, but they are taking a more measured approach. Strategic pricing and high-level marketing are key to maximizing results.
Key Takeaways for Q1 2026
- Home values remain strong across Ventura County, with stability in average pricing.
- Buyer demand is steady, even as conditions become more balanced.
- Inventory remains limited overall, though certain areas are seeing increases.
- Homes are taking slightly longer to sell, creating a more thoughtful pace.
- Pricing strategy is more important than ever in today’s market.
Looking Ahead to the Rest of 2026
The market is not slowing down. It is becoming more refined.
We are seeing a shift away from the urgency of previous years toward a more strategic environment where preparation, presentation, and expert guidance make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
For sellers, this means that maximizing your home’s value requires more than simply listing it. It takes thoughtful pricing, elevated marketing, and positioning that creates strong buyer interest from day one.
For buyers, this market offers an opportunity. With slightly more time and in some cases more inventory, you can make confident decisions while still benefiting from long-term property value growth.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Move
Whether you are considering selling, buying, or simply want to understand what your home is worth in today’s market, having a clear strategy matters.
