Considering your next real estate move in the Inland Empire, or guiding a client through the market? Let's explore what the latest numbers from late 2025 tell us about this unique region. Whether you're a homeowner looking to understand your property's value or an agent advising clients on their next steps, these insights will help you plan for a successful 2026.

As the year closed out, the market revealed some key trends. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening now and how you can position yourself for success. 

Home Prices Show Stability

In December 2025, the median listing price in the Riverside area reached $587,515, marking a 1.59% increase year-over-year. While this figure reflects a stable and resilient market, it’s important for homeowners—and agents guiding them—to look beyond headline numbers. In the Inland Empire, the majority of offers on homes now include credits toward closing costs, and these seller concessions have quickly become the standard across the market.

Another area for potential seller confusion is agent commissions. While some sellers may think buyers pay their own agent's commission, this cost is traditionally covered by the seller. Recently, we've observed that the standard commission for a buyer's agent is trending toward 2.5–3%, rather than the 2% that some sellers might expect. For sellers who aren't prepared for this, the difference can impact their final net proceeds.

All of these factors—credits, repair requests, agent commissions—can reduce a seller’s net more than anticipated. That’s why understanding the real, “all-in” cost of selling is essential. Wedgewood Homes stands out by providing transparent offers that account for these concessions and expenses up front—so you know exactly what you’ll take home, without worrying about last-minute surprises or hidden deductions. This transparency builds trust and makes the process smoother for everyone involved. 

Days on Market

The average home spent 71 days on the market in December, up 6.8% from the previous year. This followed a similar trend from November, where homes were on the market for 61 days. A longer selling period means that preparation and patience are key. It also opens up the conversation for different selling strategies. If the thought of a traditional listing process with showings and open houses feels overwhelming, selling directly to an experienced buyer like Wedgewood Homes can be an excellent alternative. It offers a straightforward, low-stress path to a fair cash offer, simplifying the journey for you or your client.

A Balanced Inventory Creates a Competitive Edge

Active inventory in December stood at 11,780 listings, a 6.3% increase compared to the previous year. While this means buyers have more options, it’s not an overwhelming flood of new homes. For sellers, this environment requires a smart approach to stand out. High-quality marketing, professional staging, and highlighting the unique features of a property are essential. With the right strategy, your home can capture the attention it deserves.

Price Reductions Signal a Need for Smart Pricing

By December's end, about 14.1% of listings had a price reduction. This is a drop from November's 19.8%, but it still shows that pricing a home correctly from the start is crucial. Sellers and agents who are attuned to the market and willing to be flexible have a distinct advantage. An initial, well-researched price can attract serious buyers faster and lead to a smoother transaction.

What This Means for Your 2026 Plans

• If you're thinking about selling or advising a client, now is a fantastic time to evaluate your options and set clear, realistic goals for the year.
• Understanding your home's value in the current market is the first step toward a successful sale. Proper timing and preparation can make all the difference in your final outcome.

As we move into 2026, staying informed and adaptable will empower you to turn these market dynamics into opportunities. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

When you’re ready to take the next step, our local market specialists are here to offer expert advice tailored to your specific needs. If you're intrigued by the idea of skipping the traditional listing process, ask us how a fast, hassle-free, as-is cash offer could be the ideal solution for you or your client. Let's work together to help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.