🌻 Homes & Hounds: A Free Sunflower Is Waiting for You
October 2026 | Contra Costa County
By Gabrielle Walker, Coldwell Banker Realty
Welcome to the October edition of Homes & Hounds! Inside, you’ll find Contra Costa County real estate insights, national housing news, and a few treats for you and your four-legged friends. It’s a celebration of the homes, neighborhoods, and dogs that make our community special, with a little Halloween mischief mixed in.
“No tricks, just treats, tail wags, and a place to call home.”
The Leash-Long Market Snapshot
Here is a snapshot of the Contra Costa County real estate market based on last month's activity.
Avg. Sales Price $1.18M Avg. List Price $1.30M
New Listings 489 Closed Sales 532 Days on Market 32
September 2026 Real Estate Market Report. Source: CCAR Contra Costa Association of REALTORS®.
Sniffing Out the Market: What 7% Rates Mean for Buyers and Sellers
The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 7.45% as of October 14, 2026, according to Mortgage News Daily. Buyers are watching their monthly budgets closely, yet buyer demand has not disappeared.
Sellers: A well prepared home with a thoughtful pricing strategy can attract strong interest and potentially multiple offers. Complete disclosures early, address visible repairs, and make a great first impression. Buyers may request repairs or closing cost assistance, and each request deserves careful consideration. A strong negotiation strategy can help protect your home’s value and your overall return while keeping the sale moving.
Buyers: Look beyond the asking price to your total monthly cost, including property taxes, insurance, HOA dues, and anticipated repairs. Homes that have lingered may offer opportunities to negotiate a lower price, repair credits, or help with closing costs or a temporary rate buydown. Have your lender compare the options, including the payment after any temporary buydown ends. And when a well priced home checks your boxes, be ready: other buyers may be sniffing out the same opportunity.
Individual mortgage rates vary by lender, loan type, and borrower qualifications.
Pup of the Month
Bone Appetite - DIY Dog Recipe
Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats
A spooktacular mix of pumpkin and peanut butter that’ll have your pup howling for more!
"All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. Pricing, property details, and availability are subject to change without notice. The broker and agent assume no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein."
