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2026

Trends shaping backyards this year

Outdoor living is a priority for many homeowners, with 60% planning backyard investments focused on durability and practicality. Key trends include creating micro-resort retreats with outdoor kitchens and fire features, using warm earthy tones and mixed materials, and choosing climate-resilient composite decking. Small, functional spaces, sleek railing systems for better views, and privacy-enhancing...

New bill would allow tax break that makes homeownership easier in California

A new California bill proposes a tax credit of up to $25,000 for home sellers who complete required repairs for first-time buyers using state mortgage assistance. The credit covers 40% of repair costs for homes sold between 2028 and 2033. The bill aims to reduce barriers for first-time buyers facing repair costs, though it may reduce state revenue by millions. Supporters see it as aiding affordability,...

A guide to survive lengthy home renovations

Home renovations vary in length from weeks to months and often disrupt daily life. To manage this, choose project timing based on personal circumstances and contractor availability. Plan a daily schedule to stay on track and identify chaotic days. Use storage to protect belongings from dust and clutter. Designate safe, work-free zones for residents to retreat to during renovations. These strategies help...

US Housing Signals Shape 2026

US median list price stood at $440K, while new listings came in at $430K. Inventory reached ~725K properties in the current quarterly snapshot. Homes averaged 121 days on market, with a 63-day median. The market action index hit 38, signaling a slight seller's advantage. Price per sq-ft fell to $290 from $298 in Early-Q2 2025, showing yearly softening in...

Southern California Sellers Gain in Spring

Best timing depended on local conditions, personal goals, and whether the home was truly ready. The guidance was clear: if you are not ready, wait. Historical regional trends pointed to Mid-Spring through Early-Summer as the prime selling window, with California listings in Mid-Spring, Late-Q2, and Early-Q3 performing best. For Southern California, Mid-Q2 through...

Spring home maintenance tasks to add to your to-do list

Spring home maintenance includes cleaning, testing alarms, servicing HVAC, inspecting heating elements, vacuuming refrigerator coils, decluttering, pest control, inspecting siding and roof, repairing concrete, checking sprinklers, washing windows, cleaning gutters, yard cleanup, resealing woodwork, removing standing water, repainting, and pruning. These actions help prevent damage, boost efficiency, and...

Smart Tips to Help California Buyers Save in 2026

California homebuyers face significant hidden costs beyond the listing price, including high property taxes influenced by assessed values and local levies, closing costs of 2-5% of the purchase price, rising homeowners insurance premiums due to climate risks, and increasing HOA fees. Maintenance expenses, mortgage rate buydowns with unclear break-even points, and variable utility bills also add financial...

How Entrepreneurs Use Blanket Mortgages to Scale Real Estate Investments

Over 33 million entrepreneurs face financial limits with traditional loans due to repetitive paperwork and costs. Blanket mortgages offer a solution by financing multiple properties under one loan, simplifying administration and freeing capital. This approach reduces overhead, speeds portfolio growth, and enhances flexibility through cross-collateralization. Managing debt collectively supports long-term...

Builders Offer Incentives for Affordability

Slide 1: Home builders are designing new homes to balance affordability and modern buyer needs. Slide 2: Newly built homes are often priced at or below existing homes. Slide 3: Since 2022, median new-home prices dropped about 5%, narrowing the gap with older homes. Slide 4: Many builders offer incentives or price cuts to attract buyers. Slide...

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