Some Studies Challenge Long-Held Views on Rent Control

Rising rents in California have sparked renewed debate on rent control, with new research from USC, UCLA, UC Berkeley, and others showing moderate rent stabilization helps protect vulnerable tenants without significantly reducing housing supply. Studies reveal rent control reduces displacement and improves stability, while recent lawsuits expose landlord collusion inflating rents. Experts argue a combined […]

Southern California Housing Market: Prices and Forecast 2025

In May 2025, Southern California's housing market showed a slight cooling with home sales down 7.6% year-over-year and median prices rising 0.9% to $888,000. Inventory increased, signaling a shift toward a more balanced market, though still favoring sellers. High mortgage rates around 6.77% are limiting affordability. Price growth is expected to slow, with steady demand […]

The SALT Deduction Shift: A New Era for High-Tax State Real Estate Markets

The Senate's increase of the SALT deduction cap to $40,000 for 2025–2029 benefits high-tax states like NY, CA, and NJ by improving housing affordability and boosting demand, especially in suburban areas. Middle-to-upper-middle-class homeowners gain the most, enhancing mortgage affordability and investment potential. Key opportunities lie in undervalued suburbs and multifamily housing, while urban luxury markets […]

How Expensive Is Living in California?

California households pay the highest median monthly bills in the U.S. at $2,854. Monthly mortgage in California averages $2,657, far above the national $1,775 median. Rent averages $2,028 per month, making it one of the most expensive rental markets. Californians pay $125 monthly for electricity and $116 for cable and internet. Overall, California's household bills […]

Will California Home Prices Stabilize by End-2025?

California’s home sales dropped below Great Recession levels, marking a prolonged slowdown since mid-2023. Experts predict flat or falling prices by year-end unless inventory grows far beyond current levels

Southern California Rent Growth Outpaces National Average in May

Southern California rents surged 5.1%, outpacing the national 3.8% rise, driven largely by the Los Angeles wildfires that destroyed over 12,000 structures and reduced housing supply. Additional factors include low housing stock and a 4.4% local wage increase. This sharp rent inflation worsens affordability and highlights the need for long-term housing resilience in climate-vulnerable areas. […]

Refinancing Strategies for Lowering Your Monthly Mortgage Payments in the California Housing Market

In California's competitive housing market, homeowners can lower monthly mortgage payments through various refinancing strategies. Options include rate and term refinancing to secure lower interest rates, cash-out refinancing to access home equity for other expenses, and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) for reduced initial payments. Additionally, government-sponsored refinancing programs like HARP and FHA Streamline can help borrowers […]

Are You Ready for a Property Inspection?

Hire an inspector and review the report to catch any costly issues before buying. Be cautious about waiving inspections in competitive situations — consider a home warranty instead.