|
Housing Market Holds Steady, But Rising Global Tensions Could Challenge Momentum
The housing market continues to show resilience despite elevated mortgage rates and ongoing affordability challenges. Small business confidence improved, new-home sales stabilized, and foreclosure activity remains well below historical levels—signs that the broader economy is holding up. However, renewed conflict in the Middle East has pushed oil prices higher, raising concerns about inflation and the path of future interest rates. If these pressures persist, buyers could remain cautious and housing activity may slow during the second half of the year.
Small Business Confidence Improves
Small business optimism rebounded in June as easing geopolitical tensions briefly lowered energy costs and reduced economic uncertainty. Business owners reported stronger sales expectations and improved confidence, although optimism remains slightly below long-term averages. With renewed conflict in July driving oil prices higher, inflation pressures could return and temper confidence in the months ahead.
New-Home Sales Stabilize, But the West Continues to Lag
National new-home sales edged higher in June as mortgage rates eased modestly and consumer confidence improved. However, sales across the Western U.S. fell to their lowest level in more than a decade, highlighting the ongoing affordability challenges facing markets like California. Builders also continue to slow new construction as they work through existing inventory and softer buyer demand.
Builder Confidence Remains Weak
Homebuilder sentiment declined again in July as elevated financing costs, affordability concerns, and economic uncertainty continued to weigh on the market. More builders are offering price reductions to attract buyers, signaling that demand for newly built homes remains soft despite limited resale inventory.
Foreclosure Activity Still Historically Low
Although foreclosure filings increased compared to a year ago, they declined from the previous month and remain well below pre-pandemic levels. Strong homeowner equity and stricter lending standards continue to support the housing market, reducing the likelihood of widespread distressed sales despite higher homeownership costs.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
Southern California's housing market remains balanced between resilient demand and ongoing affordability challenges. Limited inventory continues to support home values, while higher mortgage rates are keeping many buyers selective. If inflation eases and interest rates stabilize later this year, buyer activity could gradually strengthen. For sellers, well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods continue to attract attention, while buyers who stay prepared may find opportunities as competition remains more manageable than during recent peak markets.
Bottom Line
While economic uncertainty and global events continue to influence mortgage rates and consumer confidence, the housing market remains fundamentally healthy. For buyers and sellers in Long Beach, Orange County, and throughout Southern California, staying informed and working with a knowledgeable local real estate professional will be key to making confident decisions in today's evolving market.
|
|
|
700 E. Ocean Blvd #1102
Long Beach, CA 90802
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,084 SF | $499,990
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday (8/1) & Sunday (8/2)
12:00 - 3:00pm
Spectacular Panoramic City Views from the Iconic International Tower! Experience luxury high-rise living in this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo perched in one of Long Beach's most recognizable architectural landmarks. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the home with natural light and frame breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Step onto the expansive wrap-around balcony from the living room or either bedroom to enjoy stunning sunrises and evening city lights. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the remodeled kitchen features elegant white cabinetry and striking stone countertops. The flexible floor plan includes two spacious primary suites each with direct balcony access and their own bathrooms, making it ideal for guests, multigenerational living, or a private home office. Additional features include modern heating and air conditioning, plus an in-unit washer/dryer, and all appliances included. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including 24-hour guarded security, controlled access, a sparkling pool, fitness center, recreation room, billiards room, barbecue area, meeting room, beautifully maintained grounds, guest parking, and secure garage parking. HOA dues include water, trash, sewer, basic cable and High Speed Internet. Beyond your front door awaits the very best of the Long Beach waterfront lifestyle. Walk or bike along the shoreline, explore Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor, enjoy waterfront dining, or spend the afternoon at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Throughout the year, Long Beach hosts concerts, festivals, farmers markets, and internationally recognized events, including the Grand Prix of Long Beach. The Pike Outlets, Belmont Shore, marinas, beaches, and miles of coastal pathways are all just minutes away, making every day feel like a vacation. This is more than a beautiful condominium, it's an opportunity to own a turnkey home in one of Southern California's most desirable waterfront communities, where timeless architecture, modern upgrades, and an unmatched coastal lifestyle come together. FHA and VA approved. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a premier view residence in one of Long Beach's most iconic buildings.
|
|
|
13631 Richardson Way
Westminster, CA 92683
3 Bed | 1.5 Bath | 1,128 SF | $999,999
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom / 1.5-bathroom home offering a blend of comfort, functionality, and inviting outdoor living. The property features generous RV parking with an oversized driveway (36’7” x 24’11”), perfect for recreational vehicles, extra cars, or toys. Inside, enjoy engineered hardwood flooring, classic wood shutters, open beam ceilings, dual split A/C, ceiling fan, rustic kitchen with real wood cabinets, interior laundry room, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace. A bright sunroom and adjoining bonus room provide flexible space for an office, studio, or relaxation retreat. The private, landscaped backyard is ideal for entertaining, complete with a shaded patio cover, custom tiled porch matching the sunroom, plenty of green grass, rose bushes, shrubs, and a mature avocado tree. Exterior has been freshly painted with new vent screens, and the upgraded shed with dual pane white vinyl windows adds valuable additional storage, along with the spacious two-car garage. Location is also close to freeways, shopping, and dining!
|
|
|
3672 Montego Dr.,
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
3 Bed | 3 Bath | 1,818 SF | $1,199,000
WATERFRONT FIXER WITH INCREDIBLE POTENTIAL! First time on the market since this Seagate home was built. This mostly original Davenport model with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms presents a rare opportunity to create your ideal Huntington Harbor home. An entry featuring unique staircases and a skylight leads to a spacious dining room and step down living room. The living room showcases a classic brick fireplace and a wall of glass (sliding door and window) that opens to a waterside patio with lagoon views - perfect for entertaining friends and family. A gate at the end of the patio provides direct water access to launch your kayak or paddle board. Back in the home, the kitchen layout includes abundant cabinetry, ample counter space and the washer/dryer. Also on the first floor is a bedroom with custom built shelves and a ladder accessible loft plus a 3/4 guest bathroom. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite with vaulted ceiling offers a private balcony overlooking the water, large closet, and an en suite bathroom with dual vanities. The last bedroom and bathroom are also located on this level. A third story bonus living area is accessed by a spiral staircase and has a wraparound floor plan providing a great flex room for a work from home office, gym, or whatever best suits your needs. A detached, two-car garage is ideally situated close to the home. The beautiful Seagate community offers multiple tennis courts, pickleball, pools, clubhouses, lush greenbelts and a resort-like feel.
|
|
|
258 Argonne
Long Beach, CA 90803
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 3,004 SF | $2,250,000
Rarely available, this beautiful Tudor Revival is located in the coveted Belmont Heights Estates. Built in 1928, this home spans over 3,000 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms on a 6,361 square foot lot including a 4-car garage. An inviting entry with original wood detailing opens to a breathtaking living room defined by soaring ceilings, exposed decorative timber trusses, and an interior balcony. The remodeled kitchen blends modern amenities while maintaining a timeless design, featuring a Wolf range, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, abundant cabinetry and prep space, a peninsula with seating for casual dining, a dedicated coffee station, and the first of two washer/dryer locations. An arched opening leads to the sunlit dining room, complete with a custom buffet and elegant wallpaper. A separate family room with built-ins provides a comfortable space overlooking the front and back yards, while a dedicated office and a period-style three-quarter bath complete the first floor. Upstairs, natural light floods all 4 bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and 2 vintage bathrooms. A central flex space—ideal as a playroom, teen lounge, or den—separates the bedrooms and adds versatility. Set back from the street, the home features a large front yard and a backyard patio perfect for entertaining or enjoying the wonderful Long Beach weather.
|
|
|
700 E. Ocean Blvd #1501
Long Beach, CA 90802
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,084 SF | $550,000
Welcome to International Tower, one of Downtown Long Beach's most iconic Mid-Century Modern landmarks. This beautifully remodeled 15th-floor residence offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,080 square feet of sophisticated coastal living. Enjoy peekaboo ocean views, marina views, sparkling city lights, and a spacious wraparound balcony that invites you to relax and enjoy the vibrant waterfront setting. Designed with quality and attention to detail, the home features gorgeous hand-fired Italian tile flooring throughout, extending seamlessly onto the wraparound balcony to create a true indoor-outdoor living experience. The designer kitchen showcases waterfall stone countertops, sleek contemporary cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast bar perfect for casual dining or entertaining. Custom blackout and sheer window coverings provide both privacy and elegance while allowing you to control the abundant natural light throughout the home. A rare and highly desirable feature, this residence is one of only a handful of homes in the building equipped with air conditioning, offering year-round comfort. The flexible floor plan includes two spacious primary suites, making it ideal for guests, multigenerational living, or a private home office. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including 24-hour guarded security, controlled access, a sparkling pool, fitness center, recreation room, billiards room, barbecue area, meeting room, beautifully maintained grounds, guest parking, and secure garage parking. Beyond your front door awaits the very best of the Long Beach waterfront lifestyle. Walk or bike along the shoreline, explore Shoreline Village and Rainbow Harbor, enjoy waterfront dining, or spend the afternoon at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Throughout the year, Long Beach hosts concerts, festivals, farmers markets, and internationally recognized events, including the Long Beach Grand Prix.
|
|
|
3142 Quail Run Rd
Rossmoor, CA 90720
3 Bed + Den | 3.5 Bath | 2,752 SF | $1,835,000
Welcome to this exceptional opportunity in the highly sought-after community of Rossmoor! Offering 2,752 square feet of living space, this charming two-story home presents incredible value and endless potential for buyers looking to personalize a home in one of Orange County’s most desirable neighborhoods. Lovingly maintained by the same family for more than 50 years, the home features 3 bedrooms, a large den, and 3.5 bathrooms. Located on a beautiful tree-lined street within the award-winning Los Alamitos School District, this home welcomes you with a spacious foyer, beautiful wood floors, and a large light-filled living room with cozy fireplace. The remodeled kitchen features granite countertops and stainless steel appliances and flows seamlessly into the formal dining area overlooking the backyard — perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The versatile downstairs layout includes one bedroom plus a large den with a fireplace and attached full bath, ideal for a family room, guest suite, or home office. Upstairs, you’ll find two spacious primary suites with vaulted ceilings and ensuite bathrooms. The main primary suite offers dual walk-in closets and a large bathroom with dual sinks, soaking tub, and walk-in shower. Step outside to enjoy the private backyard retreat featuring a sparkling pool and shaded patio, perfect for relaxing or hosting gatherings. Enjoy all that Rossmoor has to offer, including nearby Rossmoor Park with pickleball courts, tennis courts, basketball, softball fields, and playgrounds, plus close proximity to Lee Elementary, Weaver Elementary, Oak Middle School, shopping, and dining. This is a rare opportunity to create your dream home in one of Orange County’s premier neighborhoods.
|
|
|
205 Ocean Pl
Seal Beach, CA 90740
4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 3,704 SF | $4,600,000
Welcome to a truly exceptional waterfront residence within a recently built coastal enclave by Shea Homes, completed in 2021, where modern sophistication meets intentional design and elevated craftsmanship. This exquisite 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home spans approximately 3,704 square feet, offering a seamless blend of comfort, style, and functionality in one of Seal Beach’s most refined settings. Enjoy ocean views from both levels, with the main living level positioned on the second floor, thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light and capture the coastal setting. A beautifully appointed living area flows effortlessly into a chef’s kitchen featuring premium Wolf appliances, custom cabinetry, and an oversized island ideal for both everyday living and elevated entertaining. Expansive sliding glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience, inviting in ocean breezes and the sound of the water. Two additional en-suite bedrooms on this level provide comfort and privacy, while an expansive deck extends the living space outdoors. The first floor is anchored by a spacious primary suite designed as a private waterfront retreat, complete with a spa-inspired bathroom featuring a soaking tub, dual vanities, and a generous walk-in closet. This level also includes an additional bedroom, a full bath, and a separate living area with water views, ideal for a media room, office, or lounge. Ideally located near the beach, a serene walking park, and the shops and dining of Main Street, this home offers a rare opportunity to experience refined coastal living at its best.
|
|
|
|
|
