If you’re searching for a home in Cerritos because you want your children to attend schools within ABC Unified School District (ABCUSD), you’re not alone. It’s a question I hear frequently from homebuyers searching in Cerritos and the surrounding communities.
But here’s something many buyers don’t realize:
You don’t necessarily have to live in Cerritos to live within ABC Unified School District.
ABC Unified School District serves Artesia, Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens, along with portions of Lakewood, Long Beach and Norwalk.
That means expanding your home search beyond Cerritos could give you additional neighborhoods, home styles and price points to consider while still searching within ABCUSD boundaries.
The key is knowing where to look—and verifying the school assignment for every individual property before you buy.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Cerritos is often one of the first cities buyers consider when they begin searching for a home within ABC Unified School District.
The city offers established residential neighborhoods, parks, shopping, restaurants and convenient access to several major Southern California freeways. Many of the schools commonly associated with ABCUSD are also located in Cerritos.
As a result, buyers sometimes assume that living within ABC Unified means they have to purchase a home in Cerritos.
They don’t.
ABCUSD boundaries extend into several neighboring communities, giving buyers more places to consider.
This can be especially helpful when available Cerritos inventory doesn’t match your budget, preferred home size or other priorities.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Yes.
ABC Unified School District serves:
For a homebuyer, the most important thing to understand is that school district boundaries do not necessarily follow city boundaries.
While Artesia, Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens are communities served by ABCUSD, only portions of Lakewood, Long Beach and Norwalk fall within the district.
Therefore, you should never assume a property belongs to ABC Unified School District based solely on its city, ZIP code or proximity to another ABCUSD property.
Always verify the individual address.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If your original home search included only Cerritos, expanding into neighboring ABC Unified communities could provide additional options.
Located immediately next to Cerritos, Artesia is one of the first communities buyers may want to add to an ABCUSD home search.
The city offers a mix of single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes and provides convenient access to many of the same shopping, dining and transportation options found around Cerritos.
For buyers who like the Cerritos area but haven’t found the right property, Artesia can be an important community to consider.
Hawaiian Gardens is another community served by ABC Unified School District.
Because it is smaller than surrounding cities, buyers sometimes overlook Hawaiian Gardens when searching for homes in the district.
Depending on available inventory and your particular needs, adding Hawaiian Gardens to your search may uncover additional opportunities.
Certain portions of Norwalk fall within ABC Unified School District, but not all Norwalk homes are in ABCUSD.
That distinction is particularly important.
Buyers may find different home styles, neighborhood characteristics and price points in Norwalk, making qualifying areas worth exploring when Cerritos inventory is limited.
However, every address should be verified individually.
Portions of Lakewood are also located within ABC Unified School District.
Lakewood is known for its established residential neighborhoods and wide variety of single-family homes. For buyers searching for particular lot sizes, floor plans or neighborhood characteristics, qualifying Lakewood properties may provide additional choices.
Again, not all of Lakewood is within ABCUSD, so checking the individual address is essential.
Certain Long Beach addresses also fall within ABC Unified School District.
Because Long Beach is a large city served by multiple school districts, buyers need to pay particularly close attention to school boundaries.
A Long Beach mailing address alone does not tell you which school district serves the property.
Verify the home through ABCUSD before relying on its school assignment.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One of the most common misconceptions among homebuyers is that city limits and school district boundaries are the same.
They aren’t.
School districts have their own geographic boundaries, which can cross city lines.
That means a property in Norwalk, Lakewood or Long Beach could potentially fall within ABC Unified School District even though it doesn’t have a Cerritos address.
It also means two homes relatively close to each other may not necessarily have the same assigned schools.
For buyers who consider ABCUSD a priority, this makes address-by-address research an important part of the home search.
•••••••••••••••••••••
The best place to start is the official ABC Unified School District School Search tool.
Enter the property’s home address to see the schools associated with that location.
Official ABC Unified School District School Search:
https://www.abcusd.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1185677&type=d&pREC_ID=1444428
ABCUSD’s School Search tool reflects current district attendance information and should be checked for each property you are considering.
Because attendance boundaries can change over time, buyers should confirm a property’s school assignment directly with ABC Unified School District before purchasing a home.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Real estate websites often display nearby schools or estimated school assignments on property listings.
While that information can be useful when initially researching a home, it should not be your final source for determining which schools a child would attend.
Third-party websites may contain outdated information, and a nearby school isn’t necessarily the school assigned to that property’s address.
If attending ABC Unified School District is important to your homebuying decision, verify the address directly through ABCUSD.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Limiting a home search to one city naturally limits the number of properties available to you.
Expanding your search beyond Cerritos while remaining within ABC Unified School District may give you:
This doesn’t mean one community is better than another.
It simply means you have more information—and potentially more choices.
For some buyers, Cerritos will still be the best fit. For others, the right home may be a few minutes away in Artesia or in a qualifying area of Norwalk, Lakewood or Long Beach.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If living within ABCUSD boundaries is one of your priorities, consider approaching your home search a little differently.
Instead of telling your real estate agent, “I only want Cerritos,” explain that your actual priority is finding a home within ABC Unified School District.
That distinction may significantly expand the properties available to you.
Never assume that a property is within ABCUSD because another home nearby is.
Verify every individual address using the district’s official School Search.
Consider the entire home—not just the city name.
Compare price, location, lot size, floor plan, condition, commute, neighborhood and other factors that matter to your household.
When a particular district or school is an important reason for purchasing a home, confirm the assignment directly with the school district before moving forward.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Searching for a home within a school district that crosses several city boundaries can be more complicated than simply searching by ZIP code.
A local real estate professional familiar with Cerritos and the surrounding communities can help you broaden your search without losing sight of your priorities.
Your search can take into account factors such as:
A local agent can help identify possibilities, but school assignments should always be confirmed directly with ABC Unified School District.
•••••••••••••••••••••
No. ABC Unified School District serves Artesia, Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens, along with portions of Lakewood, Long Beach and Norwalk. Buyers should verify every individual property address before purchasing a home based on its school district.
ABC Unified School District serves Artesia, Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens, as well as portions of Lakewood, Long Beach and Norwalk.
Yes. Artesia is one of the communities served by ABC Unified School District.
Yes. Hawaiian Gardens is served by ABC Unified School District.
Some Norwalk addresses are within ABC Unified School District, but not all of Norwalk is served by ABCUSD. Buyers should verify the individual property address.
Some Lakewood addresses are within ABC Unified School District. Because only a portion of Lakewood is served by ABCUSD, each address should be verified individually.
Certain Long Beach addresses fall within ABC Unified School District. Long Beach is served by multiple school districts, so buyers should verify the specific property address.
Use the official ABC Unified School District School Search tool and enter the property’s address:
https://www.abcusd.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1185677&type=d&pREC_ID=1444428
Because attendance boundaries can change, buyers should confirm current school assignments directly with ABCUSD.
Yes. School attendance boundaries and assignments can change over time. Buyers should verify the current school assignment with ABC Unified School District rather than relying only on previous listings or third-party real estate websites.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Searching within ABC Unified School District doesn’t mean your home search has to begin and end in Cerritos.
Artesia, Hawaiian Gardens and qualifying portions of Norwalk, Lakewood and Long Beach can provide additional possibilities for buyers who want to explore homes within ABCUSD boundaries.
Sometimes expanding your search by just a few miles can introduce you to neighborhoods, homes and price points you hadn’t previously considered.
As a local real estate professional familiar with Cerritos and the surrounding southeast Los Angeles County communities, I can help you identify homes that fit your budget, lifestyle, location and home preferences while narrowing your search to properties that appear to be within ABC Unified School District.
We’ll also make sure you know how to verify the property’s current school assignments directly with ABCUSD before making your final decision.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Cerritos, Artesia, Norwalk, Lakewood, Long Beach, Hawaiian Gardens or another nearby Southern California community, let’s create a home search strategy that helps you explore all of your options with confidence.
••••••••••••••••••••
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’re searching for a home in southeast Los Angeles County, you may have come across the ABC Unified School District (ABCUSD). One of the most common questions homebuyers ask is:
What cities are in the ABC Unified School District?
The answer may give you more homebuying options than you expected.
ABC Unified School District serves Artesia, Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens, along with portions of Lakewood, Long Beach and Norwalk. Because school district boundaries do not always follow city boundaries, buyers should verify the assigned schools for each individual property before purchasing a home.
While many people associate ABC Unified primarily with Cerritos, you do not necessarily have to buy a home in Cerritos to live within the district.
Whether you’re relocating, buying your first home, moving closer to family, or simply trying to find the right neighborhood, this guide explains which communities are served by ABCUSD, why school boundaries matter, and how to verify the schools assigned to a particular address.
••••••••••••••••••••
ABC Unified School District serves communities in southeast Los Angeles County and offers a variety of educational programs for local students.
The district provides opportunities in areas such as college and career readiness, STEM education, performing arts, athletics and other academic and extracurricular programs.
For many families searching for homes in Cerritos and the surrounding communities, access to ABC Unified schools becomes an important part of the homebuying decision.
However, buyers should remember that simply purchasing a home within a certain city does not automatically mean the property is located within ABCUSD.
The property’s specific address matters.
••••••••••••••••••••
ABC Unified School District serves:
This distinction is important because school district boundaries and city boundaries are not always the same.
For example, one home in Norwalk may fall within ABC Unified School District while another Norwalk home may belong to a different school district.
The same can be true in Lakewood and Long Beach.
That is why buyers should never rely solely on the city name, ZIP code, real estate listing or information from a third-party website when determining school assignments.
Always verify the specific property address.
••••••••••••••••••••
No.
Although Cerritos is strongly associated with ABC Unified School District, homes in several neighboring communities also fall within ABCUSD boundaries.
This can be especially helpful for buyers who want to expand their home search beyond Cerritos.
Depending on available inventory, budget, home size, neighborhood preferences and current market conditions, buyers may find additional opportunities in Artesia, Hawaiian Gardens or qualifying portions of Norwalk, Lakewood and Long Beach.
••••••••••••••••••••
Cerritos continues to attract buyers looking for an established community, convenient location and access to ABC Unified School District.
However, your home search does not necessarily need to stop at the Cerritos city limits.
Expanding your search into other ABCUSD communities may provide additional housing choices.
Artesia is located directly adjacent to Cerritos and offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes.
Homes in Artesia can be worth considering for buyers who want to remain close to Cerritos while also searching within ABC Unified School District.
As with any property, buyers should verify the assigned schools for the specific address.
Hawaiian Gardens is another community served by ABC Unified School District.
Because it is smaller than many surrounding cities, buyers sometimes overlook it when beginning their home search.
Depending on inventory and your housing needs, Hawaiian Gardens may provide another option for buyers who want to remain within ABCUSD.
Portions of Norwalk fall within ABC Unified School District, but not every Norwalk home is within ABCUSD.
That makes address verification particularly important.
Depending on the neighborhood and current housing market, buyers may find different price points, lot sizes and home styles than they might find in Cerritos.
Portions of Lakewood are also served by ABC Unified School District.
Lakewood offers a wide variety of residential neighborhoods and home styles, making it another community worth considering when expanding an ABCUSD home search.
However, only certain addresses fall within the district, so buyers should confirm the school assignment for each property.
Certain Long Beach addresses are located within ABC Unified School District boundaries.
Because Long Beach is a large city served by multiple school districts, buyers should be especially careful about assuming which school district serves a particular home.
Always verify the address before making a purchase decision based on school attendance.
••••••••••••••••••••
One of the biggest mistakes homebuyers can make is assuming that every property within a city belongs to the same school district.
The best place to start is the official ABC Unified School District School Search tool.
Enter the property’s address to view the schools associated with that location:
ABC Unified School District School Search:
https://www.abcusd.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1185677&type=d&pREC_ID=1444428
Because attendance boundaries can change, buyers should verify school information directly with the school district before purchasing a home.
It is also a good idea to confirm school assignments again during your homebuying process rather than relying only on information shown in a real estate listing.
••••••••••••••••••••
For many homebuyers, schools are one of several important factors when deciding where to live.
A buyer may love a particular house, neighborhood or city but later discover that the property is not assigned to the school or school district they expected.
That is why school boundaries should be researched before submitting an offer, especially when a particular school or district is a priority.
School boundaries can also affect the way buyers compare homes in neighboring communities.
For example, a buyer initially searching exclusively in Cerritos may discover that an Artesia property or a qualifying home in Norwalk, Lakewood or Long Beach better matches their desired home size, location or budget while remaining within ABC Unified School District.
••••••••••••••••••••
Many real estate websites display nearby schools or estimated school assignments alongside property listings.
These tools can be useful for initial research, but they should not be treated as the final authority.
A website may show schools that are geographically close to a property without confirming that the property is actually assigned to those schools.
School information may also become outdated when attendance boundaries change.
When ABC Unified School District is an important part of your home search, verify the property’s address directly through ABCUSD.
••••••••••••••••••••
Searching for a home within a specific school district can become complicated when district boundaries cross multiple cities.
A knowledgeable local real estate professional can help you narrow your search based on:
Your real estate agent can also help identify homes in neighboring communities that you may not have considered when beginning your search.
However, buyers should always make the final school-assignment verification directly with ABC Unified School District.
••••••••••••••••••••
ABC Unified School District serves Artesia, Cerritos and Hawaiian Gardens, as well as portions of Lakewood, Long Beach and Norwalk.
No. Homes located in several neighboring communities are also served by ABC Unified School District.
Yes. Artesia is one of the communities served by ABC Unified School District.
Yes. Hawaiian Gardens is served by ABC Unified School District.
No. Only certain portions of Norwalk are located within ABC Unified School District. Buyers should verify each property’s address individually.
No. Only portions of Lakewood fall within ABC Unified School District boundaries.
No. Only certain Long Beach addresses fall within ABC Unified School District. Long Beach is served by multiple school districts, so individual addresses should always be verified.
Use the official ABC Unified School District School Search tool and enter the property’s address:
https://www.abcusd.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1185677&type=d&pREC_ID=1444428
Because attendance boundaries can change, confirm school assignments directly with ABCUSD before purchasing a home.
Yes. School attendance boundaries and assignments can change over time. That is another reason buyers should verify the current information directly with the school district rather than relying exclusively on older listings or third-party websites.
••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re searching for homes within ABC Unified School District, don’t automatically limit your home search to Cerritos.
Artesia, Hawaiian Gardens and qualifying portions of Norwalk, Lakewood and Long Beach may provide additional opportunities while keeping your home search within ABCUSD boundaries.
Expanding your search can sometimes uncover different home styles, lot sizes, neighborhoods and price points that may better fit what you’re looking for.
As a local real estate professional familiar with Cerritos and the surrounding southeast Los Angeles County communities, I can help you identify homes that match your budget, lifestyle and location preferences while helping you narrow your search to properties that appear to fall within ABC Unified School District.
Before moving forward with a property based on its schools, we can also make sure you know where to verify the home’s current school assignments directly with ABCUSD.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Cerritos, Artesia, Norwalk, Lakewood, Long Beach, Hawaiian Gardens or another nearby Southern California community, let’s create a home search strategy that gives you the information you need to move forward with confidence.
••••••••••••••••••••
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
Your water heater works every day behind the scenes, providing hot showers, clean dishes, and warm water for laundry. Like any hardworking appliance, it performs best with regular maintenance.
One of the most important—and often overlooked—maintenance tasks is draining your water heater once a year. Flushing the tank removes built-up sediment and minerals that can reduce efficiency, shorten the unit’s lifespan, and increase your energy bills.
Over time, minerals naturally settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment creates a barrier between the burner or heating element and the water, forcing the system to work harder.
Routine flushing helps:
If you’re comfortable tackling a basic home maintenance project, here’s the general process:
Turn the cold-water supply back on briefly until the water flowing from the hose runs clear. This helps flush out remaining sediment.
Close the valves, disconnect the hose, allow the tank to refill completely, and then restore power or relight the gas according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If your water heater is older, showing signs of corrosion, leaking, or you’re uncomfortable working with plumbing or gas appliances, hiring a licensed plumber is a smart investment.
Professional water heater flushing typically costs between $75 and $150, making it an affordable way to improve efficiency and potentially extend the life of your system.
A yearly water heater flush is one of the easiest ways to keep your plumbing system running efficiently. Spending a little time—or hiring a professional—can help reduce energy costs, improve performance, and prevent expensive repairs down the road.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Most homeowners should flush their water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup and maintain efficiency.
Minerals naturally found in water settle to the bottom of the tank over time, especially in areas with hard water.
Yes. Removing sediment allows the water heater to operate more efficiently, which can reduce energy consumption and utility costs.
If you’re unfamiliar with plumbing systems or have a gas water heater, hiring a licensed professional is often the safest option.
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’re thinking about selling and want to know how your home should be positioned in today’s market, I’d be happy to help.
Get FREE ACCESS to these helpful resources!
>> How Much Is My Southern California Home Worth?
>> How to Sell Your Home in Southern California Fast
>> Buy a Home in Southern California with Confidence
Christine Almarines
📱 714-476-4637 | DRE #01412944
Anaid Bautista
📱 949-391-8266 | DRE #02179675
Hablo Español
Letty Luna
📱 562-879-4181 | DRE #02174000
Hablo Español
Real Estate Agents | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
Cerritos National Night Out is one of the many community events that shows why people love calling Cerritos, California home. Throughout the year, the City of Cerritos hosts events that bring neighbors together, celebrate local pride, and strengthen the relationships that make our city such a wonderful place to live.
One of those special events is National Night Out, and it’s returning to Heritage Park on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
Whether you’re a longtime Cerritos resident, new to the neighborhood, or simply looking for a fun family-friendly event this summer, National Night Out is a great opportunity to connect with your community while enjoying an evening of entertainment, food, and activities.
Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
Time: 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Location: Heritage Park, 18600 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703
Admission: Free
Highlights: Live Bruno Mars tribute concert, public-safety displays, children’s activities and opportunities to meet local first responders
National Night Out is an annual nationwide community-building campaign that promotes partnerships between residents and local law enforcement while encouraging neighbors to get to know one another.
The event helps strengthen relationships between police officers, first responders, and the community they serve while creating safer, more connected neighborhoods.
It’s a reminder that strong communities are built not only through great schools, beautiful parks, and well-maintained neighborhoods—but also through the people who live there and the relationships they build.
Here in Cerritos, National Night Out has become a favorite annual tradition that celebrates exactly that.
•••••••••••••••••••••
📅 Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
🕖 Time: 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Heritage Park
18600 Bloomfield Avenue
Cerritos, CA 90703
Admission is FREE, and everyone in the community is invited to attend.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or neighbors, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Get ready for an evening of music with THAT’S WHAT I LIKE – The Ultimate Bruno Mars Tribute Experience.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket, relax under the summer sky, and enjoy one of Bruno Mars’ biggest hits performed live in the beautiful setting of Heritage Park.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One of the highlights of National Night Out is the opportunity to meet the dedicated men and women who help keep Cerritos safe every day.
Residents can interact with local first responders, ask questions, and learn more about the important work they do throughout our community.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Visitors can also explore several informative public safety exhibits, including:
These interactive displays offer valuable safety information for families while highlighting programs available to Cerritos residents.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Come hungry!
A variety of food trucks will be on-site serving delicious food throughout the evening, making it easy to grab dinner while enjoying all the festivities.
•••••••••••••••••••••
National Night Out is truly a family event.
Children can participate in fun activities while parents meet neighbors, visit the public safety exhibits, and enjoy the live entertainment.
•••••••••••••••••••••
As a local Realtor, one of the questions I’m asked most often is,
“What’s it really like living in Cerritos?”
Of course, people know Cerritos for its award-winning schools, beautiful parks, convenient location, and well-maintained neighborhoods.
But what truly makes this city special is its sense of community.
Events like National Night Out remind us that buying a home isn’t just about square footage or the number of bedrooms.
It’s about choosing a community where neighbors know one another, families gather together, and local law enforcement actively engages with residents.
Those are the things that transform a neighborhood into a place people are proud to call home.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re planning on attending National Night Out, I’d love to meet you!
I’ll be there enjoying the festivities along with many other Cerritos residents, so if you see me walking around Heritage Park, please don’t hesitate to stop and say hello.
Whether we’ve worked together before, you’ve been following my market updates, or you’re simply curious about the Cerritos real estate market, I’d love the opportunity to meet you in person.
There won’t be any sales pressure—just a friendly conversation with a fellow community member.
If you have questions about buying a home, selling your property, the current market, or even what it’s like living in Cerritos, feel free to ask.
One of my favorite parts of serving this community is getting to know the people who make Cerritos such a wonderful place to live.
I hope you’ll introduce yourself—I always enjoy meeting new neighbors.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Community events like National Night Out give you a glimpse into the lifestyle that makes Cerritos one of Southern California’s most desirable places to live.
As someone who specializes in the Cerritos market, I believe my job goes beyond helping people buy and sell homes.
I enjoy helping families discover everything that makes this community special—from local parks and schools to restaurants, community events, and neighborhood traditions.
Whether you’re considering moving to Cerritos, planning to sell your current home, or simply wondering what your property might be worth, I’m here to help.
I’d be happy to prepare a complimentary personalized home value report based on your home’s location, condition, upgrades, and the latest comparable sales—not just an automated online estimate.
Every home is different, and a personalized analysis provides a much more accurate picture of your home’s value.
•••••••••••••••••••••
For more information about National Night Out 2026, please contact the City of Cerritos Recreation Services Division at (562) 916-1254.
I hope to see you, your family, and your neighbors at Heritage Park on Thursday, August 6, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
And remember…
If you see me there, please come over and say hello! I’d love to meet you.
•••••••••••••••••••••
National Night Out is an annual community-building event that promotes partnerships between residents, law enforcement and first responders while encouraging neighborhood involvement and public safety.
Cerritos National Night Out will take place on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
The event will be held at Heritage Park, located at 18600 Bloomfield Avenue in Cerritos, California.
Yes. The event is free and open to the community.
The evening will feature a free concert featuring THAT’S WHAT I LIKE – The Ultimate Bruno Mars Tribute Experience.
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
Looking for a memorable way to spend a summer evening in Orange County? The Water Lantern Festival Orange County is returning to Santa Ana for three nights this summer, bringing glowing lanterns, live music, food, activities, and a beautiful community lantern launch to Centennial Park.
The 2026 Orange County Water Lantern Festival is scheduled for Friday, July 31; Saturday, August 1; and Sunday, August 2, with gates opening at 5:00 PM each evening. The event takes place at Centennial Park in Santa Ana.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, date night, evening with friends, or simply looking for something different to do in Orange County, here’s what you should know before you go.
••••••••••••••••••••
Dates:
Friday, July 31, 2026
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Sunday, August 2, 2026
Time:
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location:
Centennial Park
3000 W Edinger Ave
Santa Ana, CA 92704
The official event schedule lists gates opening at 5:00 PM, with food, music and activities available throughout the evening. Lantern decorating begins around 7:30 PM, followed by the lantern launch from approximately 8:00–9:00 PM.
••••••••••••••••••••
The Water Lantern Festival combines an outdoor community festival with a personal lantern-decorating experience.
When you arrive, you’ll receive the supplies needed to create your lantern. Guests can decorate their lanterns with anything meaningful to them — hopes, dreams, messages to loved ones, memories, celebrations or simply something fun.
As sunset approaches, everyone gathers near the water for the main event: the lantern launch.
Hundreds of glowing lanterns floating across the water together create the signature experience the festival is known for. The organizers describe the evening as one centered around reflection, connection and celebration.
••••••••••••••••••••
There’s plenty to do before the lanterns ever touch the water.
Arrive early, find a comfortable spot and explore the festival.
Enjoy food trucks, live music and other festival activities while you wait for sunset.
This is your opportunity to personalize your lantern with drawings, messages, names, wishes, memories or whatever has special meaning to you.
The highlight of the evening begins as guests launch their illuminated lanterns onto the water.
The festival concludes after the lantern launch.
••••••••••••••••••••
According to the festival organizers, admission includes the materials needed to participate in the lantern experience.
Your ticket includes a:
The event website currently lists general admission beginning around $30.99, with prices increasing as the event approaches. Ticket prices and availability can change, so it’s a good idea to check the official festival website before attending.
••••••••••••••••••••
Yes. This is definitely one of the reasons we’re featuring it for our Family Fun Friday series.
The Water Lantern Festival is designed to be family-friendly, and children can participate in decorating lanterns alongside their parents.
Even better for families: children under 8 are admitted free and do not require a ticket. Children ages 8 and older need admission.
It could make a particularly fun summer memory for kids — especially once they get to see the lantern they decorated glowing out on the water.
••••••••••••••••••••
Although this makes a great family outing, there are plenty of other reasons to go.
Grab something to eat, decorate lanterns together and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere as the sun goes down.
Bring a group, blankets and lawn chairs and turn it into a relaxing summer evening together.
The festival can also be a meaningful way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or milestone.
Some attendees use their lantern to write a message or memory honoring someone important to them.
The festival specifically encourages guests to personalize their lanterns with meaningful messages or intentions before the community launch.
••••••••••••••••••••
The festival recommends bringing a few things to make the evening more comfortable:
Your event ticket
Have your ticket ready when you arrive.
Lawn chairs or a blanket
You’ll likely want somewhere comfortable to relax while enjoying the music and waiting for the lantern launch.
Sunscreen and bug spray
You’ll arrive while it’s still daylight and remain outdoors into the evening.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Orange County evenings can cool down after sunset, so consider bringing an extra layer.
Our tip: Get there early. You’ll have more time to find a spot, grab food, enjoy the entertainment and decorate your lantern without feeling rushed.
••••••••••••••••••••
One of the first questions that comes to mind when you see lanterns floating across a lake is understandably: What happens to them afterward?
According to Water Lantern Festival, its crews collect the lanterns following the event and clean the venue afterward. The festival says the lantern covers are biodegradable, their bases are made from natural wood, and reusable LED candles are used instead of an open flame.
That means you can enjoy the experience knowing the lantern launch isn’t intended to leave hundreds of lanterns behind in the water.
••••••••••••••••••••
We think this one deserves a spot on the summer calendar.
There are plenty of concerts, fairs and festivals around Orange County, but watching a lake slowly fill with illuminated lanterns offers something a little different.
And you don’t necessarily need a special occasion.
Bring your kids. Make it a date night. Meet up with friends. Celebrate something. Remember someone. Or simply write a wish on your lantern and enjoy a beautiful Orange County summer evening.
📅 July 31 – August 2, 2026
⏰ 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Centennial Park, Santa Ana
🎟️ General Admission currently from approximately $30.99
For current ticket prices, availability and event updates, visit the official Water Lantern Festival Orange County event page before heading out.
••••••••••••••••••••
At CA Real Estate Group, we don’t just help people buy and sell homes throughout Orange County and Los Angeles County — we love sharing the communities, events and local experiences that make Southern California such a great place to call home.
Follow our Family Fun Friday series for more local events, weekend ideas and things to do around Cerritos, Buena Park, Anaheim, Cypress, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Long Beach and surrounding Southern California communities.
••••••••••••••••••••
The Orange County Water Lantern Festival will be held July 31, August 1 and August 2, 2026 at Centennial Park in Santa Ana. Gates open at 5:00 PM each evening.
The festival takes place at Centennial Park, 3000 W Edinger Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704.
Lantern decorating begins around 7:30 PM, and the official lantern launch is scheduled from approximately 8:00–9:00 PM.
The official Orange County event page currently lists general admission from approximately $30.99, with prices increasing as the event gets closer. Check the festival website for current pricing and availability.
Tickets include a floating lantern, decorating kit, LED candle, marker, wristband and access to festival entertainment and the lantern launch experience.
Children under age 8 are admitted free and do not need a ticket. Children ages 8 and older require admission.
The organizers state that every lantern is collected after the event. The lanterns use biodegradable paper covers, natural wood bases and LED candles rather than open flames.
••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re thinking about selling and want to know how your home should be positioned in today’s market, I’d be happy to help.
>> How Much Is My Southern California Home Worth?
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a townhome or condominium in Cerritos, it’s important to understand that this segment of the housing market often behaves differently than the single-family home market.
While detached homes typically receive the most attention, condos and townhomes play an important role by providing more affordable homeownership opportunities, attracting first-time buyers, downsizers, and investors alike.
So, how did the Cerritos townhome and condo market perform during the first half of 2026?
Let’s take a closer look at the numbers and what they could mean moving into the second half of the year.
This report focuses exclusively on Cerritos condominiums and townhomes. Single-family homes are not included, as they represent a different segment of the local housing market.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Inventory continues to be one of the biggest drivers of any real estate market.
During the first half of 2026, only 24 townhomes and condominiums were listed for sale in Cerritos.
With only a handful of new listings entering the market each month, buyers had relatively few opportunities to choose from.
Limited inventory generally helps support property values while creating more competition for well-priced homes.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Pending sales provide one of the best indicators of current buyer demand because they represent homes that have accepted offers.
During the first half of the year, 15 townhomes and condos went under contract.
Although pending sales fluctuated from month to month, buyers continued making offers throughout the first half of the year.
Considering the limited number of homes entering the market, buyer activity remained relatively consistent.
•••••••••••••••••••••
A total of 16 townhomes and condos closed escrow during the first half of 2026.
Because there were no closed sales in June, there were no average sales price, days on market, or sale-to-list price statistics reported for that month.
That doesn’t necessarily indicate weakening demand. Closed sales often reflect contracts written several weeks earlier, and monthly totals can fluctuate significantly in a smaller market segment like Cerritos condos and townhomes.
•••••••••••••••••••••
For the months in which sales occurred, marketing times improved dramatically as the spring market developed.
The improvement from 49 days in February to just 6 days in May is noteworthy.
That trend suggests that properly priced townhomes and condos attracted buyers much more quickly as the market strengthened during the spring.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Another encouraging statistic is how close sellers came to receiving their asking price.
Beginning in April, sellers received more than their original asking price on average, with May averaging an impressive 109.2%.
While the number of transactions was relatively small, these figures suggest that buyers were willing to compete for desirable, well-priced homes.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Average sales prices remained relatively stable throughout the first five months of the year.
These monthly averages reflect the mix of homes that sold, including differences in size, location, upgrades, and condition.
Rather than focusing on one month’s average, it’s more helpful to view the overall trend.
The first half of 2026 shows that the Cerritos condo and townhome market continued to demonstrate stable pricing despite limited inventory.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re considering selling your Cerritos townhome or condominium, the market continues to present opportunities.
Inventory remains limited.
Well-prepared homes have been selling quickly.
Recent sales have shown buyers willing to pay at or above asking price for desirable properties.
That doesn’t mean every home will sell immediately.
Today’s buyers compare listings carefully, paying close attention to condition, upgrades, HOA amenities, location, and value relative to competing properties.
Preparing your home before listing, pricing it strategically, and marketing it professionally remain essential to attracting the strongest offers.
•••••••••••••••••••••
For buyers, patience and preparation remain important.
The number of available townhomes and condos in Cerritos continues to be relatively small, meaning attractive properties may not stay on the market for long.
Having financing in place before you begin your search can help you act confidently when the right property becomes available.
It’s also important to remember that every community, HOA, and floor plan offers different advantages.
Working with someone who understands the Cerritos condo and townhome market can help you recognize value and avoid missing opportunities.
•••••••••••••••••••••
As we move into the second half of the year, several factors will be worth watching.
Will more homeowners decide to list their townhomes and condos?
Will buyer demand remain steady as mortgage rates fluctuate?
Will inventory continue to remain limited?
If inventory stays low, well-maintained and competitively priced properties are likely to continue attracting strong interest.
While month-to-month statistics may fluctuate because of the relatively small number of sales, the overall market continues to show healthy buyer activity and stable values.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Remember that every property is unique.
The value of your townhome or condominium depends on much more than neighborhood averages.
Factors such as the property’s condition, upgrades, floor plan, location within the community, HOA amenities, and recent comparable sales all influence market value.
If you’d like a complimentary personalized home value report, I’d be happy to prepare one based on your property’s unique features and the latest comparable sales in your community.
Whether you’re planning to sell this year, purchase your next home, or simply want to understand your property’s current value, feel free to reach out anytime.
I’d be happy to help.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Yes. During the first half of 2026, 16 Cerritos townhomes and condominiums closed escrow, showing that buyers continue to purchase these properties despite limited inventory.
Limited inventory, quicker selling times during the spring, and sellers receiving at or above asking price in recent months suggest favorable conditions for many condo and townhome sellers. The best timing depends on your property and goals.
Marketing times improved significantly during the first half of 2026, decreasing from 49 days in February to just 6 days in May for homes that closed during those months.
Overall, yes. While monthly average prices vary depending on the mix of homes sold, the first half of 2026 showed relatively stable pricing for townhomes and condominiums.
A personalized home value report based on your property’s location, floor plan, upgrades, HOA amenities, condition, and recent comparable sales provides the most accurate estimate.
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’re wondering what’s happening in the Cerritos real estate market, June provided some encouraging signs for both homeowners and buyers. While national housing headlines often paint a broad picture, the local market here in Cerritos continues to tell its own story.
The June data shows that inventory remained limited, buyers stayed active, and well-priced homes continued to sell quickly. Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or selling your current property, understanding these local trends can help you make informed decisions.
This report focuses on single-family homes in Cerritos only. Condominiums and townhomes are not included, as they often follow different pricing trends and market conditions.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Here’s how the Cerritos single-family housing market performed in June:
These numbers paint the picture of a market that continues to move at a healthy pace.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One of the first things buyers notice when searching for a home is how many properties are available.
In June, only 18 new single-family homes came on the market.
For a community as desirable as Cerritos, that’s still a relatively limited number of new opportunities for buyers.
Limited inventory generally means buyers have fewer homes to choose from, especially if they’re looking for a specific neighborhood, school district, or floor plan.
For homeowners considering selling, fewer competing listings can work in your favor, particularly if your home is well-prepared and priced appropriately.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Another encouraging sign is buyer activity.
During June, 19 homes went under contract, slightly exceeding the number of new listings that entered the market.
When pending sales keep pace with—or even outnumber—new listings, it’s often a sign that buyer demand remains healthy.
Rather than sitting on the sidelines, buyers continue to move forward when the right home becomes available.
This tells us that qualified buyers are still watching the market closely and are ready to act when they find a home that meets their needs.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Perhaps the biggest story from June is how quickly homes are selling.
The average days on market dropped to just 13 days.
That’s a strong indicator that buyers are making decisions relatively quickly.
When a home is priced appropriately, marketed effectively, and presented in excellent condition, it may not stay available for long.
For buyers, this means preparation is important.
Waiting several days to schedule a showing or delaying an offer on a desirable property could result in missing an opportunity.
For sellers, shorter marketing times often translate into more momentum and stronger buyer interest during the first few weeks after listing.
•••••••••••••••••••••
June also showed that buyers remain willing to compete for desirable homes.
The average seller received 102.6% of the original asking price.
In other words, the average home sold for more than its original list price.
While every property is unique, this statistic suggests that buyers continue to recognize value and are willing to submit competitive offers when inventory is limited.
It also reinforces the importance of strategic pricing.
Homes that are priced correctly from the beginning often generate more interest than homes that enter the market priced too aggressively.
•••••••••••••••••••••
The average sales price in June reached $1,292,694, reflecting the continued strength of the Cerritos housing market.
It’s important to remember that average sales prices naturally fluctuate from month to month because each month’s sales include different homes with varying sizes, locations, lot sizes, and levels of updating.
Rather than focusing on a single number, it’s more useful to view the overall trend.
June continues to demonstrate that Cerritos remains one of Southern California’s most desirable communities, with strong buyer demand supporting home values.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Is it a good time to sell my home in Cerritos?”, June’s data offers several positive indicators.
With only 18 new listings entering the market and homes averaging just 13 days on market, buyers continue to compete for quality homes.
That doesn’t mean every home will automatically sell quickly.
Today’s buyers are informed.
Before scheduling a showing, they’re comparing photos, researching neighborhoods, reviewing school information, and evaluating recent comparable sales.
That’s why preparation matters.
A successful sale starts with:
The first week on the market often generates the most attention, making a strong launch especially important.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Many buyers are asking another important question:
“Is now a good time to buy a home in Cerritos?”
The answer depends on your financial goals and long-term plans, but June’s numbers provide some useful insight.
Homes are selling quickly, which means buyers should be prepared before beginning their search.
Having a mortgage pre-approval, understanding your budget, and knowing what features matter most can help you move confidently when the right property becomes available.
The goal isn’t necessarily to predict exactly where mortgage rates or home prices will go next.
Instead, it’s about being ready when an opportunity presents itself.
Prepared buyers often have the greatest advantage in a competitive market.
•••••••••••••••••••••
As we move into the second half of 2026, several trends will be worth watching.
If June is any indication, the Cerritos single-family housing market continues to show healthy fundamentals.
Limited inventory, active buyers, quick selling times, and strong sale-to-list price ratios all point toward a market that remains competitive.
While every month brings new opportunities and challenges, buyers and sellers who prepare in advance will be in the strongest position to achieve their goals.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Keep in mind that this report reflects overall market activity for single-family homes only.
Every home is different.
The value of your property depends on factors such as its location, lot size, floor plan, upgrades, remodeling, and overall condition.
That’s why online estimates should only be used as a starting point.
If you’d like a complimentary personalized home value report, I’d be happy to prepare one based on your home’s unique features and the most recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.
Whether you’re considering selling this year or simply want to know what your home is worth in today’s market, feel free to reach out anytime. I’d be happy to help.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, understanding your home’s current value is an important first step.
Is it a good time to sell a home in Cerritos in 2026?
The first half of 2026 shows homes selling faster than earlier in the year, with many sellers receiving their full asking price or more. Whether it’s the right time for you depends on your goals, your home’s condition, and your next move.
Is it a good time to buy a home in Cerritos in 2026?
Many buyers continue to purchase homes in Cerritos because demand remains steady and desirable homes sell quickly. The right time to buy depends on your financial readiness and long-term plans rather than trying to predict short-term market changes.
How long are homes taking to sell in Cerritos?
Average days on market improved from 43 days in January to 13 days in June, showing that well-priced homes are attracting buyers quickly.
How can I find out what my Cerritos home is worth?
A personalized home value report based on recent comparable sales, your home’s condition, location, and upgrades provides a much more accurate estimate than automated online valuation tools.
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’ve been following the Cerritos housing market, you’ve probably noticed there’s no shortage of opinions about where real estate is headed. One day you’ll hear it’s a buyer’s market. The next day someone says it’s the perfect time to sell.
So what’s really happening here in Cerritos?
The best way to answer that question is to look at what buyers and sellers are actually doing—not what national headlines are saying.
In this 2026 Mid-Year Cerritos Real Estate Market Update, we’ll focus on four key indicators from single-family home sales:
Closed sales
Average days on market
Average sale-to-original-list-price percentage
Average sales price
Together, these numbers tell us how competitive the market has been during the first half of 2026 and what buyers and sellers should expect moving into the second half of the year.
This report covers single-family homes only. Condominiums and townhomes are not included, as they often follow different pricing and demand trends.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One concern many homeowners have is whether homes are still selling.
The answer is yes.
During the first six months of 2026, 95 single-family homes closed escrow in Cerritos.
April recorded the highest number of completed sales with 22 closings, while June finished with a strong 18 closed transactions.
These numbers tell us that buyers are continuing to purchase homes despite changes in mortgage interest rates and broader economic uncertainty.
The Cerritos market continues to attract buyers because of its desirable neighborhoods, highly regarded schools, convenient location, and strong long-term appeal.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Speed matters in real estate.
One of the clearest indicators of buyer demand is how long homes stay on the market before selling.
At the beginning of the year, the average home remained on the market for 43 days.
By June, that average had fallen to just 13 days.
That’s a remarkable shift in only six months.
For sellers, shorter marketing times often mean qualified buyers are watching new listings closely and making decisions more quickly.
For buyers, it means the best homes may not remain available for long.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One statistic I always encourage homeowners to watch is the percentage of the original asking price sellers ultimately receive.
This tells us how much negotiating power buyers and sellers have.
Beginning in February, sellers received an average of at least 100% of their original asking price every month.
March stood out, with homes selling for an average of 104.9% of their original list price.
While every home is different, these numbers suggest buyers continue competing for well-priced, well-presented properties.
When demand is strong and inventory remains limited, multiple-offer situations become more common.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Home values also continued to show strength throughout the first half of the year.
Although monthly averages naturally fluctuate depending on the size, condition, and location of the homes that sell, the overall trend remains positive.
Five of the six months recorded average sales prices above $1.2 million, with April reaching the highest average of the year.
That consistency reflects continued confidence in the Cerritos housing market.
Based on the first half of 2026, many homeowners may find today’s market favorable.
Homes are selling faster than they were at the beginning of the year.
Sellers are frequently receiving their full asking price or more.
Average home values have remained strong.
Those are all encouraging signs.
At the same time, a successful sale doesn’t happen by accident.
Today’s buyers are informed. Before scheduling a showing, they’re reviewing photos, comparing recent sales, researching neighborhoods, and evaluating every available option online.
The homes generating the strongest interest are usually the ones that are properly prepared, professionally marketed, and priced strategically from the beginning.
If you’re thinking about selling, the goal isn’t simply to get your home on the market.
The goal is to position your home so it stands out from the competition and attracts qualified buyers as soon as it becomes available.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Many buyers are asking a different question.
“Should I buy now, or should I wait?”
The answer depends on your personal goals and financial situation, but the local market provides some useful perspective.
Buyers are continuing to purchase homes in Cerritos.
Homes are selling relatively quickly, which tells us demand remains healthy.
Waiting for the “perfect” market can be challenging because no one knows exactly when mortgage rates or home prices will change.
Many successful buyers focus less on timing the market and more on preparing themselves to act when the right opportunity appears.
If buying a home aligns with your long-term plans, having a clear strategy may be more valuable than trying to predict short-term market movements.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re considering selling during the second half of 2026, here are a few steps that can help position you for success.
Start with a personalized home value analysis instead of relying on automated online estimates.
Prepare your home before listing by addressing deferred maintenance, decluttering, and improving curb appeal.
Price your home based on recent comparable sales and current buyer demand rather than emotion or outdated neighborhood values.
Invest in professional photography and a comprehensive marketing plan that reaches buyers across Google, YouTube, social media, real estate websites, and AI-powered search platforms.
The first impression buyers have is usually online. Making that impression count can have a meaningful impact on buyer interest and your final sales price.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re planning to purchase a home this year, preparation is your greatest advantage.
Get pre-approved before you begin looking at homes so you understand your budget and can make a strong offer when the right property becomes available.
Know which neighborhoods, schools, and home features are most important to you.
Be prepared to view desirable homes quickly because well-priced properties may not stay on the market for long.
Most importantly, work with a local real estate professional who understands the Cerritos market.
Having someone who knows neighborhood trends, pricing strategies, and upcoming opportunities can help you make informed decisions throughout the buying process.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Based on the first half of the year, the Cerritos single-family housing market continues to show positive signs.
Buyer demand remains steady.
Homes are selling faster.
Home values continue to hold up well.
Sellers are still receiving strong offers.
As always, market conditions can change as inventory levels, mortgage interest rates, and buyer confidence evolve.
For that reason, making decisions based on current local market data—not national headlines—is often the most practical approach.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, understanding your home’s current value is an important first step.
Remember, every property is different.
The condition of your home, its location within Cerritos, lot size, floor plan, upgrades, and recent improvements all influence its value.
That’s why an online estimate can only provide a general idea.
If you’d like a complimentary personalized home value report, I’d be happy to prepare one based on your home’s unique characteristics and the most recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.
If you’re considering buying or selling in Cerritos, let’s talk. Together, we can build a strategy based on your goals and today’s local market—not guesswork.
•••••••••••••••••••••
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’re considering selling your Cerritos home in 2026, you’ve probably asked yourself one important question:
“Is now a good time to sell my home in Cerritos?”
With changing mortgage rates and constant headlines about the housing market, it’s easy to feel uncertain. Some reports suggest the market is slowing, while others say homes are still selling quickly.
So, what’s really happening here in Cerritos?
The best way to answer that question is by looking at two of the strongest indicators of a local housing market:
How many new homes are coming on the market
How quickly those homes are going under contract
These numbers often tell us far more than national headlines because they reflect what’s happening right here in our community.
This report focuses exclusively on single-family homes in Cerritos. Condominiums and townhomes are not included, as they often follow different market trends.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One of the biggest factors affecting sellers today is inventory.
When there are fewer homes for sale, buyers have fewer choices. When inventory increases significantly, sellers typically face more competition.
During the first half of 2026, 137 single-family homes were listed for sale in Cerritos.
May experienced a temporary increase in new listings, but inventory quickly declined again in June.
Looking at the first half of the year as a whole, one thing stands out.
The supply of homes for sale in Cerritos remains relatively limited.
That’s encouraging for homeowners because fewer available homes generally mean less competition for buyers’ attention.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Limited inventory only matters if buyers are still purchasing homes.
The good news is they are.
During the first six months of 2026, 102 single-family homes went under contract.
Although pending sales slowed in May, activity increased again in June.
That rebound suggests buyers remain active and continue making offers when the right home becomes available.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Perhaps the strongest indicator for sellers is how quickly homes are reaching pending status.
Think about that for a moment.
In January, the average home took 43 days to sell.
By June, the average dropped to only 13 days.
That tells us buyers are making decisions much faster than they were earlier in the year.
Well-priced homes that are presented professionally continue attracting strong interest soon after they hit the market.
Based on the first half of 2026, many homeowners would likely answer yes.
Here’s why.
Inventory remains relatively limited.
Buyers are still entering the market.
Homes are reaching pending status much faster than they were at the beginning of the year.
Those are all positive signs for sellers.
That doesn’t mean every home will sell immediately or receive multiple offers.
Success still depends on preparation, pricing, presentation, and marketing.
Today’s buyers have access to more information than ever before. Before they even schedule a showing, they’re reviewing professional photos, comparing recent sales, researching neighborhoods, checking school boundaries, and evaluating similar homes online.
That’s why simply putting a sign in the yard isn’t enough anymore.
The homes creating the most excitement are the ones that are thoughtfully prepared before they ever reach the market.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re considering selling during the second half of 2026, your strategy matters just as much as market conditions.
Here are a few things I recommend to every seller.
One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is relying on online estimates.
Automated valuation tools can’t see your remodeled kitchen, updated flooring, expanded living space, or the condition of your home.
They also can’t compare your home the way a local market expert can.
Pricing your home correctly from the beginning often creates more buyer interest and can lead to stronger offers than starting too high and making price reductions later.
First impressions happen long before buyers walk through the front door.
They begin online.
Professional photography, clean landscaping, fresh paint, decluttering, and completing small repairs can have a significant impact on buyer interest.
In today’s market, buyers often decide whether they want to see a home within seconds of viewing it online.
Marketing has changed dramatically over the last several years.
Today’s buyers discover homes through online searches, YouTube, social media, AI-powered search tools, real estate websites, and email alerts.
A successful marketing plan should reach buyers wherever they’re looking—not rely on a single platform.
Every Cerritos neighborhood has its own pricing trends and buyer demand.
Knowing which homes are competing with yours—and how buyers are responding to them—can help you position your home more effectively.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Several factors could influence the market during the remainder of the year.
If more homeowners decide to list after the summer, buyers may have additional choices.
If inventory stays limited, sellers could continue benefiting from reduced competition.
Mortgage interest rates will also remain an important factor.
Lower rates could bring more buyers into the market, while higher rates may encourage buyers to be more selective.
Even so, the first half of 2026 has already shown that motivated buyers continue purchasing homes when they find the right property.
Based on current trends, the Cerritos single-family housing market appears healthy heading into the second half of the year.
While every market experiences normal ups and downs, today’s data suggests that well-prepared sellers continue to have strong opportunities.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Every home is different.
Even two homes with the same floor plan can have very different values based on their location, upgrades, lot size, condition, and recent improvements.
That’s why a personalized strategy is so important.
If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to sell your Cerritos home, I’d be happy to meet with you, review the current market, discuss your goals, and prepare a complimentary home value report based on your home’s unique features and the latest comparable sales.
There is no obligation and no pressure.
Whether you’re planning to sell this year, next year, or you’re simply curious about your home’s current value, having accurate information is the best place to start.
If you’re ready to explore your options, give me a call or send me a message. Together, we’ll create a selling strategy designed specifically for your home and your goals.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, understanding your home’s current value is an important first step.
Is it a good time to sell a home in Cerritos in 2026?
The first half of 2026 shows homes selling faster than earlier in the year, with many sellers receiving their full asking price or more. Whether it’s the right time for you depends on your goals, your home’s condition, and your next move.
Is it a good time to buy a home in Cerritos in 2026?
Many buyers continue to purchase homes in Cerritos because demand remains steady and desirable homes sell quickly. The right time to buy depends on your financial readiness and long-term plans rather than trying to predict short-term market changes.
How long are homes taking to sell in Cerritos?
Average days on market improved from 43 days in January to 13 days in June, showing that well-priced homes are attracting buyers quickly.
How can I find out what my Cerritos home is worth?
A personalized home value report based on recent comparable sales, your home’s condition, location, and upgrades provides a much more accurate estimate than automated online valuation tools.
•••••••••••••••••••••
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
If you’re planning to buy a home in Cerritos in 2026, you’re probably wondering:
“Is now the right time to make my move?”
Looking at the latest market data can help you understand buyer demand, inventory levels, and what today’s housing market means for your home-buying strategy.
It’s one of the most common questions I hear from buyers, especially when interest rates, home prices, and housing market headlines seem to change every week.
The answer depends on your personal goals, finances, and timeline, but one thing is clear when we look at the local data.
Buyers are still buying homes in Cerritos.
The first half of 2026 shows that demand remains steady, inventory is still limited, and well-priced homes continue to sell quickly.
Rather than trying to predict the perfect time to buy, it may be more helpful to understand what today’s market looks like and how you can position yourself for success.
This report focuses on single-family homes in Cerritos only. Condominiums and townhomes are not included, as they often follow different market trends.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Every real estate market starts with inventory.
The more homes available for sale, the more choices buyers have.
When inventory is limited, buyers often need to act more quickly because desirable homes don’t stay on the market very long.
During the first half of 2026, 137 single-family homes were listed for sale in Cerritos.
Although May saw an increase in new listings, that jump didn’t last. June returned to just 18 new listings, reinforcing that inventory in Cerritos remains relatively limited.
That means buyers should expect new opportunities to come to market every month, but not an overwhelming number of choices.
Finding the right home may take patience, but when it does become available, being prepared can make all the difference.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Another way to measure the health of the market is by looking at pending sales.
A pending sale means a buyer and seller have reached an agreement, and the home is under contract.
During the first half of the year, 102 homes went pending.
Even though activity slowed briefly in May, buyer demand returned in June.
That tells us something important.
People aren’t sitting on the sidelines waiting for perfect market conditions.
They’re buying when the right home becomes available.
•••••••••••••••••••••
One statistic stands out more than any other.
The amount of time homes stayed on the market before going under contract.
At the beginning of the year, buyers had a little more time to think through their decisions.
By June, the average home was going under contract in less than two weeks.
That doesn’t mean every home sells immediately.
It does suggest that homes priced well and in good condition are attracting serious buyers quickly.
For many buyers, the answer may be yes.
Not because someone can predict exactly what mortgage rates or home prices will do next month, but because successful home buying has always been about preparation rather than perfect timing.
Waiting for every market condition to be perfect can mean missing opportunities that are available today.
The first half of 2026 shows that buyers continue to purchase homes even with today’s financing environment.
Many are deciding that finding the right home is more important than trying to guess where interest rates may go.
If rates improve later, refinancing may be an option. The opportunity to buy the right home in the right neighborhood, however, may not come around again.
Every buyer’s situation is different, so the right decision depends on your finances, long-term plans, and comfort level—not just market headlines.
•••••••••••••••••••••
If you’re planning to buy during the second half of 2026, preparation is your biggest advantage.
Here are a few strategies that can put you in a stronger position:
Get pre-approved before you start shopping. Knowing your budget ahead of time allows you to move confidently when the right home becomes available.
Know your priorities. Decide which features are must-haves and which are nice-to-haves. That makes it easier to act when you find a home that fits your needs.
Be ready to view new listings quickly. With homes averaging only 13 days on the market in June, waiting several days to schedule a showing could mean missing an opportunity.
Look beyond the newest listings. Some homes that have been on the market a little longer may offer room for negotiation because they need updating or were initially priced too aggressively.
Work with someone who knows the Cerritos market. Every neighborhood has its own trends, school boundaries, buyer demand, and pricing patterns. Understanding those differences can help you make better decisions and recognize value when it appears.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Buying a home isn’t only about finding a property.
It’s about understanding the market you’re buying into.
Some homes receive multiple offers within days.
Others stay available longer because of pricing, condition, or location.
Knowing the difference can help you avoid overpaying while also recognizing when it’s worth moving quickly.
Having someone monitor new listings, identify opportunities, and guide you through negotiations can make the buying process less stressful and more strategic.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Based on what we’ve seen so far, buyers should continue to expect a competitive market, especially for homes that are updated, priced appropriately, and located in desirable neighborhoods.
Inventory is expected to remain relatively limited unless significantly more homeowners decide to list their properties.
Mortgage interest rates will continue to influence affordability, but local buyer demand has remained steady throughout the first half of the year.
That suggests many buyers are making decisions based on their personal needs rather than waiting for market conditions that may or may not happen.
If you’re prepared financially and have a clear understanding of what you’re looking for, there will continue to be opportunities throughout the remainder of the year.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Every buyer’s situation is different.
That’s why I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving up to a larger home, downsizing, or relocating to Cerritos, having a personalized strategy can help you make confident decisions.
If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to buy, I’d be happy to sit down with you, review the current market, discuss your goals, and help you create a plan that fits your situation.
There’s no pressure and no obligation.
Sometimes a 20-minute conversation can save weeks of uncertainty and help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re ready to start your home search—or even if you’re just exploring your options—give me a call. I’d love to help you navigate the Cerritos market and be the first to know when the right opportunity becomes available.
•••••••••••••••••••••
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, understanding your home’s current value is an important first step.
Is it a good time to sell a home in Cerritos in 2026?
The first half of 2026 shows homes selling faster than earlier in the year, with many sellers receiving their full asking price or more. Whether it’s the right time for you depends on your goals, your home’s condition, and your next move.
Is it a good time to buy a home in Cerritos in 2026?
Many buyers continue to purchase homes in Cerritos because demand remains steady and desirable homes sell quickly. The right time to buy depends on your financial readiness and long-term plans rather than trying to predict short-term market changes.
How long are homes taking to sell in Cerritos?
Average days on market improved from 43 days in January to 13 days in June, showing that well-priced homes are attracting buyers quickly.
How can I find out what my Cerritos home is worth?
A personalized home value report based on recent comparable sales, your home’s condition, location, and upgrades provides a much more accurate estimate than automated online valuation tools.
CHRISTINE ALMARINES
Real Estate Agent | CA Real Estate Group | Caliber Real Estate
📱 714-476-4637
📧 christine@carealestategroup.com
DRE #01412944
Christine Almarines is a top real estate agent in Buena Park and Cerritos helping homeowners sell in Orange County and Los Angeles County.
Please fill out the form below and we will be contacting you shortly
with information about your home.
