Mortgage Rates Rise Again: What It Means for Southern California Homeowners
The housing market is entering September with a familiar challenge: inflation is still influencing mortgage rates and keeping many buyers on the sidelines. The Fed’s latest comments pushed rates higher, while new-home sales weakened and the rental market showed only modest improvement. The good news is that strong homeowner equity continues to provide a cushion against financial stress. For Long Beach and Orange County, limited inventory remains an important support for home values, but sellers should expect buyers to be more selective as borrowing costs remain elevated.
Fed Signals “Higher for Longer” as Mortgage Rates Rise
Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh took a cautious approach in his recent Jackson Hole speech, emphasizing that inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target and that a few months of improving data aren't enough to declare victory.
Markets responded quickly. The 10-year Treasury yield increased, expectations for a September rate hike rose, and the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.81%, its highest level in three weeks.
For homebuyers, higher rates mean greater monthly payments and continued affordability challenges. For sellers, it reinforces the importance of realistic pricing and strong marketing to attract buyers who are still actively shopping.
New-Home Sales Fall as Higher Rates Weigh on Buyers
U.S. new-home sales declined 10.5% in July, reaching their lowest level since January. Higher mortgage rates and elevated inventory are giving buyers more negotiating power in the new-home market.
Builders have responded by reducing prices, with the median new-home price falling to its lowest level in five years. While the West saw a modest year-over-year increase in sales, affordability remains a significant obstacle.
This could be important for Southern California sellers, as competition from new construction can influence buyer expectations in certain price ranges.
Rental Market Shows Signs of Stabilizing
The national rental market continues to slowly improve. Median rents increased for the seventh consecutive month in August, while the national multifamily vacancy rate declined to 7.1%.
However, rental properties are still taking longer to lease, suggesting demand remains relatively soft. With housing affordability keeping some potential buyers in the rental market, conditions could remain stable rather than rapidly improve.
Foreclosures Rise, but Homeowner Equity Provides a Cushion
Foreclosure filings increased 10% from a year ago in July, reflecting continued financial pressure from higher housing and living costs.
However, foreclosure activity remains well below historical norms. Strong homeowner equity is one of the biggest reasons. Many homeowners who purchased or refinanced during the past several years have substantial equity, providing a financial cushion even in a slower market.
Long Beach & Orange County: Inventory Remains Key
In Long Beach and Orange County, the story continues to be one of limited inventory and selective buyers. Desirable homes in neighborhoods such as Belmont Shore, Naples, Alamitos Beach, East Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Seal Beach and Los Alamitos can still attract strong interest when they are priced appropriately and presented well.
Higher mortgage rates are limiting the number of buyers who can comfortably afford today's prices, but the lack of excess inventory is helping prevent the type of significant price declines that can occur in an oversupplied market.
For sellers, this makes accurate pricing especially important. A home that is competitively priced and properly prepared can still stand out, while overpriced properties are more likely to sit on the market and require adjustments.
Bottom Line
The housing market remains caught between high borrowing costs and limited supply. Mortgage rates could remain volatile until inflation shows more consistent improvement, but strong homeowner equity and constrained inventory continue to provide stability.
For Southern California homeowners considering a move, the market is less about trying to perfectly time interest rates and more about understanding current neighborhood-level supply, demand and comparable sales.
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20203 Paseo Granada
Cerritos, CA 90703
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 1,965 SF | $1,349,000
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath home in the heart of Cerritos, where timeless design meets modern comfort. Soaring vaulted ceilings create an impressive first impression, opening to a spacious living room and formal dining area. Fresh interior and exterior paint and new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout provide a bright, contemporary, move-in-ready feel. The beautiful kitchen is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, featuring espresso shaker cabinetry, granite countertops, a large peninsula, and stainless steel appliances. The light-filled family room offers recessed lighting and a cozy gas fireplace, while an additional enclosed patio provides versatile bonus space not included in the listed living area. The first-floor bedroom offers flexibility for guests, a home office, or multigenerational living. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms include a spacious primary suite with two walk-in closets and a beautifully remodeled bathroom featuring white shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a stunning walk-in shower. The two front bedrooms each feature sliding doors that open to a generous front patio, creating additional private outdoor space. Enjoy the comfort for new central heating and AC. Lush landscaping surrounds the home, providing a welcoming setting for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. Ideally located in the award-winning ABC Unified School District, with access to nationally ranked Whitney High School (grades 7–12; admission by entrance exam), this home is also conveniently close to H Mart, Cerritos Towne Center, shopping, dining, parks, and major freeways. Beautifully updated, spacious, and ideally located, 20203 Paseo Granada offers the perfect combination of comfort, style, and convenience in one of Cerritos' most desirable communities.
OPEN HOUSES
Saturday (9/5)
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Sunday (9/6)
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
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2601 E. Ocean Blvd #807
Long Beach, CA 90803
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,016 SF | $939,000 (New Price)
Amazing ocean views will take your breath away in this highly upgraded, TOP FLOOR, END UNIT 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury condo with 1,016 square feet of well-designed living space and 2 separate parking spaces. A dramatic gallery-style entryway complete with LED-lit art niches, textured wave tiled walls, inlay flooring, and uplighting within the unique ceiling welcome you to this home. At the end of this striking entry sits a bar with wine refrigerator and glass front cabinets. The sleek kitchen is equipped with a Thermador induction cooktop and oven with rotisserie feature, countertops that just don’t seem to get stained, glossy, woodgrain styled cabinetry, and a breakfast bar ideal for casual dining. The open concept living room showcases a modern fireplace, ambient lighting, mirrored accent walls, and two accordion balcony doors that frame the incredible 270 degree ocean and city views while filling the home with natural light. The spacious primary suite is highlighted by an architectural ceiling, French doors, and Juliette balcony with views of Signal Hill - especially pretty at night. The custom walk-in closet with abundant built ins leads to a serene bathroom with a large shower featuring multiple shower heads and body sprays, marble vanity, touch light smart mirrors and a bidet. The guest bedroom enjoys equally beautiful city sights through the French doors, an art niche, and mirrored double closets. The lovely second bathroom features quartz countertops, oversized tile flooring and a shower/tub combo with accent glass tiles. The oversized tile extends throughout the main living spaces, while both bedrooms have luxury vinyl flooring. Access to the in-unit European laundry machine is located in the hallway closet that also houses the tankless water heater. Additional amenities include a mini-split unit with heat and air conditioning, surround sound in the living room, and a desirable location within the building set back from the street so that the unit stays quieter.
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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.
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700 E. Ocean Blvd #1102
Long Beach, CA 90802
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,084 SF | $483,000
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.
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3672 Montego Dr.,
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
3 Bed | 3 Bath | 1,818 SF | $1,205,000
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.
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13631 Richardson Way
Westminster, CA 92683
3 Bed | 1.5 Bath | 1,128 SF | $985,000
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!
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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.
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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.
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