New home construction buyers benefit from year-round opportunities as builders offer incentives and price cuts to maintain sales amid affordability challenges. About 40% of builders are lowering prices, and 65% use incentives like rate buydowns and closing cost assistance, providing buyers more negotiating power outside the traditional spring surge. Buyers should focus on readiness, local market...
Mortgage applications fell 1.6% last week after a prior 7.9% rise, with refinance applications down 4% due to a slight increase in 30-year fixed mortgage rates to 6.37%. Purchase applications rose nearly 2% weekly and were over 20% higher than last year, reflecting improved homebuying sentiment amid increased housing inventory. The refinance share dropped to 42.5%, while adjustable-rate mortgage activity...
Purchase applications recently ↑1% and were ↑21% yearly, showing buyers are moving forward as inventory conditions look more favorable nationally for many shoppers. Total mortgage application volume recently ↓1.6% seasonally adjusted, after a prior ↑7.9%, while unadjusted activity ↓1%, tracking overall loan demand across programs. The 30-yr fixed rate...
A policy group proposed a $100K annual cap for couples retiring at normal retirement age, with a $50K limit for single retirees. The cap would be adjusted for inflation, retirement age, and marital status, producing small immediate savings that grow over time for trust funds. Modeling suggests inflation indexing could close one-fifth of the solvency gap, while...
For 2026, affordability gaps are expected to stay wide across California, keeping buyer planning and local guidance especially important through changing conditions. Even if mortgage rates decline, projected home-price growth may limit affordability improvements, so buyers should prepare budgets before touring homes or making offers. For SoCal households, the...
Luxury homes now emphasize smart technology, sustainability, wellness amenities, and prime locations offering privacy and connectivity. Key trends in 2026 include wellness-centered design, eco-friendly features, multigenerational living spaces, experiential amenities, and branded residences. Limited inventory and strong global demand keep prices high. Buyers should consider total ownership costs,...
Key mortgage mistakes to avoid include not getting pre-approved, overlooking credit scores, and failing to compare mortgage options. Buyers should budget for total homeownership costs, including property taxes and maintenance. Skipping home inspections and neglecting closing costs can lead to financial issues. It's crucial to consider the neighborhood and save for a down payment. Additionally, avoid...
A new AI-powered ADU Loan Qualifier tool helps California homeowners quickly assess loan eligibility for accessory dwelling unit projects using basic financial and property data. This early-stage feature aims to simplify financing decisions, improve planning efficiency, and reduce delays for ADU construction, addressing a key challenge amid growing demand for additional living space and rental income...
Home price growth expected to be around 2.2% nationally, with California underperforming at approximately 0.5% to 1.5% due to affordability constraints and weak turnover Sales activity expected to grow near the national baseline of 1.7%, but California remains below average because of high borrowing costs Inventory expected to rise in line with national trend of...
Southern California offers diverse retirement options beyond the coast, including high desert towns like Yucca Valley near Joshua Tree National Park, mountain communities such as Idyllwild and Tehachapi with four seasons, and desert spots like Desert Hot Springs and Borrego Springs known for wellness and dark skies. These towns feature affordable homes, artistic and cultural scenes, outdoor activities,...
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