🏡 Market Update: Confidence Flatlines as Uncertainty Grows
Homebuyer sentiment stalls, insurance rates climb, and trade tensions shake markets. Even with mortgage rates easing, optimism in the housing market failed to gain traction last month. Buyers and sellers alike are treading cautiously as economic uncertainty, labor-market weakness, and renewed U.S.–China trade tensions weigh on consumer confidence. Meanwhile, California homeowners face new insurance challenges as the state’s FAIR Plan requests its largest rate hike in years — another hurdle in an already tough affordability landscape.
💭 Homebuyer Sentiment Stalls Despite Lower Rates
Fannie Mae’s latest Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI) held steady at 71.4 in September, unchanged from August and 2.5 points below last year. Fewer consumers said it’s a good time to buy (27%) or sell (57%), while expectations for higher mortgage rates ticked up slightly. Although job-loss concerns eased a bit last month, the ongoing labor-market weakness could put renewed pressure on confidence if the economy slows further.
🔥 California FAIR Plan Seeks Sharp Rate Hike
The California FAIR Plan, the state’s insurer of last resort, has requested an average 35.8% premium increase — its biggest proposed jump in more than seven years. If approved, about half of all policyholders could see rate hikes between 40% and 55%. With nearly 591,000 policies now under the FAIR Plan as private insurers retreat from high-risk areas, many homeowners could face new financial strain heading into 2026.
🌏 Tariff Shock Sends Ripples Through Financial Markets
Markets tumbled after President Trump announced new 100% tariffs on select Chinese imports, set to take effect November 1. Stocks fell sharply while Treasury yields — and mortgage rates — declined as investors sought safer ground. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dipped by six basis points, offering short-term relief for borrowers but underscoring the fragile global outlook.
💼 Labor Market Weakens, Earnings Growth Slows
The New York Fed’s latest survey shows Americans growing more cautious about their job prospects. The perceived risk of job loss rose to 14.9%, while expected income growth over the next year slipped to 2.4%, the lowest since 2021. Even as many households say they’re better off than a year ago, fewer expect their finances to improve in the year ahead — a sign of fading optimism as hiring cools.
🌴 Local Spotlight: Long Beach & Orange County
Here in Southern California, the market remains active but price-sensitive. Many buyers are waiting for more stability in mortgage rates, while well-priced listings are still seeing steady interest — especially in desirable coastal and family-friendly neighborhoods.
- Long Beach: Inventory is holding steady, with most sellers pricing strategically as demand softens slightly heading into fall. The median home price in Long Beach has hovered around the mid-$800,000s, with coastal areas such as Belmont Shore and Bluff Heights continuing to attract strong buyer attention.
- Orange County: While luxury listings in areas like Newport Beach and Irvine remain competitive, affordability continues to challenge first-time buyers. Median prices are still above $1 million, but motivated sellers who adjust pricing are finding success with qualified buyers looking to lock in before year-end.
Bottom line for SoCal homeowners:
With rates easing slightly and demand still outpacing supply in key neighborhoods, late fall could offer opportunities for both buyers and sellers — especially those ready to move before the next rate or insurance adjustment hits.
Whether you’re eyeing a move in Long Beach, Orange County, or beyond, let’s talk about how shifting rates and market trends could impact your plans this fall.
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1849 Fanwood Ave.
Long Beach, CA 90815
3 Bed | 1 Bath | 1,054 SF | $949,000
Charming Remodeled Home in Highly Desirable Los Altos! Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom home, perfectly situated on a picturesque tree-lined street in one of Long Beach’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Just two blocks from the award-winning Minnie Gant Elementary School and one block from Cal State Long Beach, this home offers both charm and convenience in an unbeatable location. Step inside to find a bright and inviting interior featuring a stunning remodeled kitchen with sleek white soft-close cabinetry, granite countertops, new modern flooring, and stainless-steel appliances, including a 5-burner gas range. The updated bathroom shines with a stylish vanity and contemporary finishes. Additional highlights include dual-pane windows, modern ceiling fans in every bedroom, and original hardwood floors throughout the living areas and bedrooms.
Situated on an expansive 6,828 sq. ft. lot, the backyard offers exceptional space and privacy—perfect for entertaining, gardening, or even adding an ADU. A long driveway provides ample parking, with room for a boat or RV, plus a detached 2-car garage. Conveniently located near parks, shopping, Trader Joe’s, and major freeways, this Los Altos gem combines modern updates with classic charm in a prime location!
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday (10/18) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Sunday (10/19) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
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7428 Bothwell Rd.
Reseda, CA 91335
5 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,420 SF | $750,000
Discover an exceptional opportunity in the heart of Reseda! This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath home offers approximately 2,420 sq. ft. of living space on a 5,388 sq. ft. lot, presenting the perfect blank canvas for investors, contractors, or buyers seeking a full renovation project. The home features a desirable two-story layout with generous living areas and excellent natural light potential. A main-level bedroom and full bath offer flexibility for multi-generational living, a convenient in-law suite, guest room, or a home office setup. Three spacious bedrooms upstairs with primary on-suite, walk in closet and extra shared full bathroom. With creativity and vision, this property can be transformed into a modern family retreat or a profitable investment. Located on a quiet residential street, just minutes from schools, parks, restaurants, and freeway access, this property combines a prime location with unlimited potential. Property is being sold in as-is condition with no repairs or credits. Bring your contractor and imagination to realize this home’s full potential.
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday (10/18) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Sunday (10/19) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
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4340 Pixie Ave.
Lakewood, CA 90712
5 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,459 SF | $1,199,000
Beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3-bath home on a tree lined street in the sought-after Lakewood Mutuals neighborhood! Step inside to find new modern flooring, fresh interior and exterior paint, smooth ceilings, and custom wood shutters that add timeless charm. The open layout features a welcoming living room, a large dining area, and a bright kitchen with white cabinetry, new quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The main level includes three bedrooms and two full baths, including a spacious primary suite with three closets (one walk-in) and a spa-like bath with dual sinks, walk-in shower, and jetted tub. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms and a full bath with walk-in shower provide flexible living space. The backyard is a private oasis with pavers that match seamlessly with the driveway making an expansive area that is perfect for entertaining day or night with ambient lighting, turf play area, or relaxing in the swim spa under the stars. Additional features include central heat and A/C, indoor laundry, and parking for up to 6 cars with a detached 2-car garage and long driveway.
Close to Lakewood Country Club, Bixby Knolls, and Long Beach Exchange (LBX), this home offers both tranquility and prime access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday (10/18) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Sunday (10/19) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
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9451 Harcourt Circle
Huntington Beach 92646
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,494 SF | $5,200
Coastal Living with a Pool – Just Minutes from the Beach! Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath single-story home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Century Shores neighborhood of Huntington Beach. Step inside to an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, a cozy fireplace, new modern flooring, smooth ceilings, and fresh paint throughout. The updated kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and contemporary cabinetry, perfect for any home chef. Versatile bonus room that can be used as a family room, large great room, office, etc. Enjoy relaxing or entertaining by your sparkling pool. Large back yard and side yard areas are great for gardening. Energy-efficient solar panels help keep electricity costs low, and parking is never an issue with an attached 2-car garage plus a wide driveway that accommodates three more cars. Central heat and AC. This home offers the ideal combination of comfort, convenience, and location—close to shopping, dining, entertainment, parks, and top-rated schools. Best of all, you’re just a quick bike ride from the beach, Downtown Huntington Beach, and Pacific City!
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939 E Appletong St #8
Long Beach 90802
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 900 SF | $2,300
Discover this delightful top floor condo in the heart of Alamitos Beach. Just steps from the beach, East Village, Retro Row, and Shoreline Village, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom gem offers a cozy and inviting living space. Featuring spacious bedrooms with ample closet space, large windows, and retro bathroom tiling, this condo provides comfort and character. The kitchen boasts tile floors and counters, a refrigerator, dishwasher, range, oven, and plenty of storage. The living room opens to a private balcony overlooking the courtyard, while a one-car garage with storage and community laundry facilities add convenience. Enjoy the vibrant local scene with great restaurants, cafes, entertainment, and parks nearby.
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4700 Clair Del Ave #620
Long Beach, CA 90807
2 Bed | 1 Bath | 779 SF | $385,000
Top-Floor Condo with Pool Views and Garage Parking! Welcome to this nicely updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath top-floor corner condo, offering abundant natural light and serene views of the sparkling pool and spa. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living area with newer dual-pane windows and modern laminate flooring. The open kitchen features white cabinetry, granite counters with a stylish tile backsplash, and gas range — perfect for cooking and entertaining. This home includes two dedicated parking spaces, one in a private garage and another reserved spot. The Clair Del community offers fantastic amenities including a pool, spa, barbecue area, two community rooms (one with a pool table and ping pong, and another available for private gatherings), plus two laundry facilities. With low HOA dues that cover water, trash, gas, and community upkeep, this is an excellent opportunity for convenient and affordable living.
Ideally located near Lakewood Country Club, Bixby Knolls, and the Long Beach Exchange (LBX), you’ll enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
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179 Santa Ana Ave.
Long Beach, CA 90803
3 Bed | 3 Bath | 3308 SF | $1,937,000
Modern Coastal Luxury in the Heart of Belmont Shore!
Prepare to be impressed by this stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bath, four-story contemporary home offering over 3,300 sq ft of sleek, modern living. Located just steps from the best of Belmont Shore, this light-filled residence features an open-concept living area with hardwood floors, a gourmet kitchen with quartz island and stainless steel appliances, and multiple balconies to enjoy the ocean breeze. The luxurious primary suite boasts a double-sided fireplace, spa-like bath with soaking tub, and a custom walk-in closet. Additional highlights include a ground-level entertaining space with bar, private loft, laundry room, solar panels, and a two-car garage with extra parking. Thoughtfully designed for comfort, style, and coastal living, this is a rare opportunity you don’t want to miss!
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3445 S Pacific Ave.
San Pedro, CA 90731
3 Units | 6 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,742 SF | $1,100,000
Prime Triplex Just 2 Blocks from Cabrillo Beach – Ideal for Investors or Owner-Occupants!
Located the desirable Point Fermin are of San Pedro, this well maintained triplex is just steps from Cabrillo Beach and offers an incredible opportunity for investors or owner-users. Each of the three 2-bed, 1-bath units includes in-unit laundry hookups, dual-pane windows, and two parking spaces (garage + driveway). The front unit features a spacious patio with peek-a-boo ocean views, while the top-floor owner’s unit is move-in ready with updated kitchen and bath, laminate flooring, and crown molding. The large shared backyard is perfect for entertaining. Two units are tenant-occupied at below-market rents, with the top rear unit ready for occupancy. Projected gross income is $73,476/year with pro forma potential of $96,000/year. Subject to LA City Rent Control. Enjoy close proximity to beachside amenities, dining, and recreation in this sought-after coastal location!
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1811 Tevis Ave.
Long Beach 90815
5 Bed | 2 Bath | 2018 SF | $1,420,000
Stunning Remodeled 5-Bedroom Home in Highly Desirable Los Altos! This beautifully remodeled home is nestled on a picturesque tree-lined street in one of Los Altos’ most sought-after neighborhoods. Designed for modern living and entertaining, the open floor plan features hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, and custom paint throughout. The gourmet kitchen boasts sleek white cabinetry, black quartz countertops, a spacious island, and high-end GE Profile stainless steel appliances. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with a stunning wall of glass-pane doors that open to an entertainer’s patio and a beautifully landscaped backyard. Recent upgrades include a new roof and driveway in 2024, solar system with dual batteries in 2024, and new windows in 2023. Conveniently located near shopping, parks, Trader Joe’s, Cal State Long Beach, and award-winning Minnie Gant Elementary School—this home truly has it all.
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