2026

Updated forecast now sees existing-home prices rising ~1% by end-2026, below the earlier ~2% call, as softer sales and more listings ease pressure. Mortgage rates were still forecast near 6% through year-end, but stronger household income growth and slower prices were expected to trim the typical payment yearly. Inventory was expected to grow, though the outlook...

America celebrates its 250th birthday, highlighting the enduring dream of homeownership as a symbol of independence and stability. Modern mortgage options, including conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans, offer low or no down payment choices for first-time buyers. Local assistance programs also help with down payments. Success in homebuying involves a trusted team of a Realtor, mortgage lender, and title...

San Diego County, CA experienced a notable surge in real estate activity in May 2026. Homes sold jumped over 4% year-over-year, while pending sales climbed even higher at more than 6%. This uptick signals renewed buyer confidence and a vibrant local market. Continue to full...

Homes with pergolas sell over three days faster and for 2.2% more, offering shaded outdoor living spaces that extend usable backyard areas. Turf boosts sales speed by more than two days and increases price by 1.7%, appealing due to low maintenance and year-round greenery. Open shelving inside homes helps sell about two days faster and for 0.1% more by combining storage with visual appeal, enhancing buyer...

In Mid-Q2 2026, the builder sentiment index ↑3 to 37, topping the 34 estimate while showing modest improvement from the prior reading. Sales conditions ↑3 to 40, buyer traffic ↑3 to 25, and 6-mo sales expectations ↑3 to 45, giving builders better near-term signals. Builders are slightly less aggressive with outright price cuts: ~32% reduced prices, versus...

Lower mortgage rates and improving inventory should support modest home sales growth, while affordability slowly improves for buyers across California. • Median home prices are expected to reach new highs, though appreciation remains measured compared with the rapid gains seen previously. • More listings could reduce bidding wars, giving buyers greater...

...

A new website lets San Diego buyers search public-record homes by address and join a waitlist before any listing, opening access in a tight market. Homeowners receive notice when buyers show interest, then can chat directly or through agents, helping them explore a sale gradually instead of deciding overnight. For young parents and median-income shoppers, the...

The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced 14 policy changes to streamline the FHA single-family mortgage insurance program, totaling 150 actions since early 2021. Updates include reducing appraisal review costs, saving $3.3 million annually, and expanding flexibility in the 203(k) rehabilitation program. These changes aim to eliminate outdated requirements, reduce burdens, and improve...

The U.S. short-term rental market, valued at $72 billion in 2025, is expected to exceed $125 billion by 2033. High inventory in vacation markets gives buyers leverage. A 2025 law allows owners to use 100% bonus depreciation for tax savings. Key advice: buy where demand exists, trust experienced sources, and don't overvalue rental history alone. Focus on local knowledge and maintain clear investment...