2026 Market & Escrow Predictions: What California Realtors Should Prep For Now
Jennifer Davidson,
Owner | Office Manager | Senior Escrow Officer
Introduction
A new year brings new market shifts—and 2026 is expected to see meaningful changes in insurance availability, appraisal timing, and lending processes.
Here’s what top-performing Realtors should prepare for now.
1. Wildfire-Zone Insurance Changes
More carriers expected to restrict or update underwriting.
Prosper Insight: Encourage buyers to shop insurance immediately after offer acceptance.
2. Appraisal Timing Variability
Low inventory + holiday season + lender backlog = longer appraisal windows.
Prosper Insight: Build appraisal buffer time into offers.
3. Lending Environment Shifts
Interest-rate adjustments may tighten underwriting.
Prosper Insight: Prep buyers early with full financial documentation.
4. Faster Digital Escrow Adoption
Remote signings, e-notes, and secure portals will become more standard.
Prosper Insight: Educate clients about secure communication and fraud-prevention practices.
Conclusion
Realtors who anticipate changes—not react to them—gain a clear competitive edge.
Start the year prepared, confident, and aligned with a proactive escrow partner.
About the Author
Jennifer Davidson, Sr. Escrow Officer and owner of Prosper Escrow, has spent nearly two decades mastering the art of escrow. Since beginning her career in 2006, her natural talent, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence have made her a trusted leader in residential sales, refinances, probate sales, short sales, mobile home transactions, and co-ops.
