Week of 01/05/2026 – 01/11/2026 | CRMLS Matrix Report
The first full week of January is already delivering encouraging signs across Madera County and our surrounding foothill and mountain communities. While many people assume the real estate market “wakes up” later in the spring, this week’s CRMLS data tells a different story—buyers are actively writing offers, sellers are positioning strategically, and momentum is quietly building.
This early-year activity creates powerful opportunities for those who are paying attention now.
Source: CRMLS Matrix
Oakhurst clearly led the way this week and sent a strong signal about buyer demand:
3 active listings
3 homes under contract or pending
That’s a one-to-one ratio of listings to pending sales—an excellent indicator of a healthy and competitive market. Homes are not just being listed; they are being absorbed quickly. For sellers, this suggests strong buyer interest and limited competition. For buyers, it highlights the importance of acting decisively when the right home becomes available.
North Fork also recorded a closed sale, reinforcing the idea that even traditionally quieter markets are seeing real movement. This reflects steady demand for lifestyle properties and homes that offer space, scenery, and a sense of community.
Coarsegold saw:
1 active listing
Price adjustments, which often attract renewed buyer attention
Strategic pricing continues to be a powerful tool. For buyers, this can open doors to great value, while sellers who adapt quickly can position their homes to stand out early in the year.
Some areas experienced limited activity this week, including Bass Lake, Ahwahnee, Fish Camp, Wawona, Yosemite, Wishon, and Raymond. However, this quieter pace should not be mistaken for lack of opportunity.
In fact, lower activity often means:
Less competition for buyers
A chance for sellers to prepare and list before demand increases
Strong potential for early-season visibility once spring approaches
Bass Lake did see a price change and a cancellation, which highlights how responsive sellers are to the market—often a sign of motivation and opportunity for serious buyers.
For buyers, this is a strategic moment. Inventory remains limited, which means sellers who are on the market are typically serious about selling. The fact that homes are already going under contract in January shows that motivated buyers are securing properties before the spring rush.
Buying now can offer:
Less competition
More focused negotiations
The ability to move before demand heats up
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time,” this quieter yet active phase of the market can be one of the smartest windows of the year.
For sellers, the takeaway is very positive: buyers are watching and acting. Oakhurst’s strong pending activity proves that well-priced homes in desirable locations can move quickly—even at the very beginning of the year.
Listing now or preparing your home for the coming weeks can put you ahead of the curve. With inventory still low in many areas, sellers who enter the market early often benefit from increased visibility and serious buyer attention before more listings appear.
This week’s market update confirms that 2026 is starting with quiet confidence and real momentum. The Madera County real estate market remains resilient, balanced, and full of opportunity for both buyers and sellers who approach it with the right strategy.
Whether you’re thinking about purchasing your next home, selling your current property, or simply wanting to understand what your options look like in today’s market, now is the perfect time to start the conversation.
Local insight matters—especially in unique markets like ours. If you’d like a custom home value, a buyer strategy, or a deeper look at your specific neighborhood, I’m always happy to help you make informed and confident decisions.
Here’s to a strong start and a successful year ahead!
Founder / Broker Associate
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.