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Global Tensions and a Slowing Economy: What It Means for the SoCal Housing Market
The recent conflict in the Middle East is adding a new layer of uncertainty to an economy that was already showing signs of slowing and a housing market that was gradually trying to recover. Because global events often influence interest rates, inflation, and consumer confidence, they can also ripple through the housing market in meaningful ways.
A sharp drop in payrolls in February and weaker consumer spending earlier this year had raised hopes that mortgage rates might fall sooner, improving affordability for buyers. Instead, rising oil prices tied to the conflict are pushing inflation concerns higher, keeping mortgage rates elevated and raising the risk of a stagflation-like environment if tensions persist.
While housing sentiment had been improving just weeks ago, prolonged geopolitical uncertainty could weigh on buyer confidence in the months ahead
California Housing Market Overview
California’s housing market started 2026 on a softer note, with modest declines in prices and sales compared with last year.
February 2026 Market Snapshot
- Median Home Price: $821,300 (down 1.1% year-over-year)
- Homes Sold: 18,396 (down 2.3% from last year)
- Median Days on Market: 50 days (7 days longer than a year ago)
These numbers suggest a market that is cooling slightly but still holding relatively steady compared with the sharp swings seen over the past few years. In many Southern California communities—including most of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Orange County—demand for well-located homes remains steady despite higher mortgage rates.
Mortgage Rates Tick Higher Amid Iran Conflict
Mortgage rates moved higher again this week as markets reacted to rising geopolitical uncertainty. The average 30-year mortgage rate increased to 6.19%, up slightly from 6.15% the previous week.
Economic uncertainty has already been elevated over the past year, and geopolitical tensions are adding another layer of volatility. Rising oil prices tied to military action in Iran have pushed bond yields higher, which in turn affects mortgage rates.
Some economists believe that without these geopolitical tensions, mortgage rates could already be in the high-5% range instead of remaining above 6%.
Despite the recent increase, rates are still near their lowest levels since late 2022.
The Federal Reserve meets again next week, but most analysts expect the central bank to hold rates steady for now. While the Fed influences the broader interest-rate environment, mortgage rates often move independently based on bond market expectations.
Bottom Line
The housing market in 2026 is navigating a complicated mix of forces. Economic growth is slowing, geopolitical tensions are pushing mortgage rates higher, and buyers remain sensitive to affordability. At the same time, limited housing supply continues to provide support for home prices.
For homeowners and sellers—especially in high-cost markets like here in Southern California—the market is shifting toward a more balanced environment. While conditions are not as frenzied as they were during the pandemic years, well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods are still attracting strong interest.
Real estate remains highly local, and understanding neighborhood-level trends will be key to navigating the market in the months ahead.
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11271 Lowell Court
Cypress, CA 90630
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,622 SF | $1,098,888
Welcome to this Remodeled Patio Home situated on a culde-sac! High ceilings greet you when entering the living room with its newly installed, engineered wood flooring and a cozy fireplace for the cold nights. The primary bedroom on the main floor offers privacy and convenience, while the upstairs loft provides flexibility for additional living space. Kitchen with its new stainless steel appliances, gorgeous counters and a large window overlooking luscious grassy area. Large space for dining area can be utilized for a bonus den area. Upstairs you have two good size bedrooms, gorgeous bathroom, linen closet and a lil nook that could be used for storage or a play house if you have children. Outside, the large patio is perfect for relaxing or hosting outdoor gathering with plenty of room for a BBQ, patio furniture. The home also features a separate laundry room for added convenience. With all of the upgrades and renovations completed, this move-in-ready patio home is truly a gem and the perfect place to call home. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to own a beautifully remodeled property with no connecting walls to neighbors. Award winning schools!!! HOA amenities include 3 pools, 3 clubhouses, spa, tennis court, pickleball, low HOA and lush landscaping thru out the community.
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850 E Ocean Blvd #302
Long Beach, CA 90802
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,370 SF | $850,000
Welcome to The Pacific, a luxury high-rise with stunning ocean views. This secure, 24/7 concierge-serviced building delivers resort-style living with direct access to the beach, a state-of-the-art fitness center, pool, spa, beach front fire pit, bbq area, and banquet/meeting room. This 3rd floor, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo features hardwood floors and a private balcony off the living room, perfect for enjoying the ocean view. The kitchen is equipped with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, including an oven, and dishwasher, combining style and performance. The spacious primary suite features custom closets and an en-suite bathroom designed for comfort, complete with a walk-in soaking tub, separate shower, and dual sinks. The secondary bedroom features a Murphy bed, allowing flexibility for a guest room, office, or additional living space. Other features include new paint, inside laundry with full-size washer and dryer, utility closet and storage space. The area is conveniently located near Shoreline Village, restaurants, shopping, and transportation. Experience elevated coastal living in one of the area's most sought-after oceanfront communities.
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2119 Ridgeview Terrace
Signal Hill, CA 90755
4 Bed | 5 Bath | 3,834 SF | $1,495,000
Welcome to 2119 Ridgeview Terrace Dr, a beautifully maintained four-bedroom, five-bath home nestled in the exclusive gated community of The Terraces at Bixby Ridge in Signal Hill. This home offers a timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and peekaboo views. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features a downstairs bedroom with its own private bath, perfect for guests or multigenerational living. The main level showcases open and inviting living spaces enhanced by custom crown molding, faux-finished walls, and granite countertops that bring elegance and warmth throughout. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite offers a relaxing retreat with a walk-in closet and an ensuite bath. The backyard is a peaceful escape, complete with a custom water feature, high-end brick patio, and a built-in BBQ area ready for your personal finishing touches. Located minutes from Hilltop Park, scenic trails, shopping, and dining, this home blends quality, comfort, and charm in one of Signal Hill’s most desirable neighborhoods.
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360 W Ocean Blvd #B
Long Beach, CA 90802
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 416 SF | $320,000
Welcome to the iconic Sovereign Building, one of Long Beach’s most recognizable historic landmarks located along Ocean Boulevard in the heart of Downtown. This charming studio offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of Long Beach history while enjoying the convenience of coastal urban living. The efficient layout maximizes space and features classic architectural character that reflects the building’s historic Tudor-Gothic design. Located on the building’s lower level, the unit provides a quiet and private setting while still offering easy access to the building’s amenities and the vibrant downtown lifestyle just outside your door. The building permits short-term rentals with a minimum 7-night stay, creating a rare opportunity for flexible coastal living, a second home, or investment potential. Residents enjoy access to shared spaces including a 12th-floor solarium and library with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the Queen Mary, and the Long Beach harbor, along with community laundry and secure building access. Ideally situated just steps from the beach, Shoreline Village, the Pike, Pine Avenue dining, the Long Beach Convention Center, Aquarium of the Pacific, marina, and coastal bike paths, this home offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern coastal living. Experience historic character, exceptional walkability, and the best of Downtown Long Beach living in one of the city’s most iconic buildings.
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6600 Warner Ave. #182
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 785 SF | $2,395
Top-Floor Condo with 2 Parking Spaces for Rent in Desirable Villa Warner – Resort-Style Living! Don’t miss this highly sought-after top-floor condo offering comfort, privacy, and abundant natural light. Recently refreshed with new paint, new carpeting, and smooth ceilings, this beautiful home features a spacious living room with recessed lighting and a newer sliding door that opens to a sunny private balcony. The bright, open kitchen showcases new quartz countertops with a breakfast bar, refrigerator, dishwasher, and newer gas stove—perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The oversized primary bedroom offers generous closet space and a peaceful retreat at the end of the day. Enjoy the convenience of elevator access and two assigned parking spaces (rare for the community), including one covered carport space. Villa Warner is a gated community featuring resort-style amenities including a sparkling pool and spa, outdoor cooking area, fitness center, billiards room, and additional storage. Ideally located close to the beach, shopping, and restaurants, this home offers the perfect blend of convenience and coastal lifestyle. Schedule your showing today!
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2030 S Cabrillo Ave #206
San Pedro, CA 90731
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 614 SF | $399,999
Stunning Remodeled Condo with Harbor & Mountain Views in Vista Del Oro
Wake up to breathtaking views of the harbor, the iconic Vincent Thomas Bridge, and even snow-capped mountains from this beautifully remodeled 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo perched high in the desirable Vista Del Oro neighborhood of San Pedro. Move-in ready and filled with natural light, this home features an open-concept layout with newer flooring and a bright, sun-drenched living area. Step through the sliding glass doors onto your private balcony and enjoy sweeping views, coastal breezes, and sparkling city lights in the evening. The remodeled kitchen shines with updated cabinetry, stainless steel gas stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, and even a wine fridge—perfect for entertaining. The spacious bedroom offers a large closet with ample storage, while the modern bathroom impresses with stylish flooring, stone counters, a beautifully tiled shower, and contemporary vanity. Additional highlights include gated parking with one assigned space and storage, plus convenient elevator access. This is an exceptional opportunity to own a view property in one of San Pedro’s most sought-after hillside communities.
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3581 Olive Ave.,
Long Beach, CA 90807
4 Units | 1808 SF | $1,095,000
Trophy Spanish Fourplex in Coveted California Heights – Ideal Owner-User or Investment Opportunity! Rarely available, this beautifully maintained Spanish-style four-unit property is located in California Heights, one of Long Beach’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Set on a charming tree-lined street featuring historic homes, this is a true trophy asset offering timeless appeal, strong income, and exceptional lifestyle value. The property consists of four units—two 1-bedroom units and two studios. Three units are currently rented, and one is available for an owner-occupant, or can be rented for an investor looking to increase rental income. Once fully leased, the current gross scheduled income is $76,056 annually, with pro-forma potential of approximately $86,160 based on market rents. Additional features include three private garages and ample street parking. The location is unbeatable—just 2–3 blocks from award-winning Blue Ribbon schools (Longfellow Elementary and Hughes Middle School) and within walking distance to the vibrant shops, restaurants, and cafes of Bixby Knolls. This is a rare opportunity to own a character-rich, income-producing property in a premier neighborhood with long-term upside and undeniable charm.
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133 The Promenade N #319
Long Beach, CA 90802
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 910 SF | $490,000
Modern cosmopolitan condo on The Promenade. Well designed open floor plan. Gorgeous kitchen featuring CaesarStone counters and stainless steal appliances. Living room balcony with views of the lovely courtyard and palm trees. Large primary bedroom with dual closets. Central forced air and AC. Washer and dryer included. FIOS Internet, basic cable & water included in HOA dues. Building offers a modern club room complete w/ TV, sofas, pool table, shuffle board, full kitchen, outdoor social patio bar, courtyard lounge area w/ fireplace, modern fitness center w/ TVs & yoga room. Living in this desirable community you are walking distance to the City of Long Beach Bike Paths, The Promenade, boardwalk, grocery stores, The Pike, the beach, marina, Shoreline Village, jet ski & boat rentals, paddle boarding, Farmers Market, Pine Ave., live music, and all the amazing sites and entertainment downtown has to offer!
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13616 Cornuta Ave.
Bellflower, CA 90706
4 Bed | 1.5 Bath | 1,231 SF | $800,000
Welcome to this charming and spacious 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath home located in one of Bellflower’s most desirable neighborhoods, served by the acclaimed Downey school district. This well-maintained residence features a nicely updated kitchen complete with Corian countertops, a custom tile backsplash, and solid wood cabinetry. The home offers wonderful indoor–outdoor living, with an attached 2-car garage, a long driveway that can easily accommodate up to three additional cars, and a generous backyard with a covered patio ideal for relaxing, entertaining, or play. Located on a quiet street with wide roads and a true neighborhood feel, this home is close to top-rated schools, local parks, great dining, and shopping. Commuters will appreciate easy access to the 105, 91, and 605 freeways, providing quick connections to both Los Angeles and Orange County. Just minutes from St. John Bosco High School, this home blends comfort, convenience, and an unbeatable location—ready for its next owner to enjoy. Some lenders may offer special financing incentives, including down payment assistance or grants, subject to lender availability and buyer qualifications.
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