What's New

* As expected, the FED dropped its rate by 0.25% mostly concerned about a weakening labor market. Two more cuts are expected this year, another in 2026 and one more in 2027, all of which would take the funds rate down to around 3%, which the median forecast of the committee sees as “neutral.” The 10-year treasury remained around 4.04%. (CNBC)

* Applications to refinance a home loan jumped 58% last week compared with the previous week and were 70% higher than the same week one year ago. The ARM share of mortgage activity increased to 12.9% of total applications, its highest level since 2008. The average loan size on refinances reached its highest level in the 35-year history of the MBA’s tracking. (CNBC)

* The average US credit card interest rate is approximately 22%- 23%. Delinquencies generally run around 7%, which makes this a VERY profitable business for banks. Those who own homes often take out a HELOC - around 8% - to eliminate credit card debt.....which can save about 16% on an interest payment, another good reason to own a home and build equity!

* Housing starts in the US fell last month to the lowest since May, as bloated home inventory slowed builders’ appetites to boost production. New residential construction decreased 8.5% last month to an annualized rate of 1.31 million homes, with starts of one-family homes falling 7% to an annualized 890,000. Building permits, which point to future construction, decreased 3.7% to an annualized pace of 1.3 million, a more than 5-year low. (Bloomberg)

If you are thinking of making a move please reach out, I would love to help you navigate your next steps.

Julie

Featured Properties

1149 Camino Vallecito

Lafayette, CA 94549

5 Bed | 4 Bath | 3,934 Sq Ft | $2,699,000 | Julie Whitmer

Experience the best of Upper Happy Valley living—where privacy, space, and natural beauty come together. Nestled on nearly half an acre, this property offers a serene setting surrounded by mature trees, sweeping views, and a sense of retreat just minutes from downtown Lafayette. This spacious residence features 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, plus versatile bonus spaces including a workout room, playroom, and office—making the floor plan both flexible and highly functional. Soaring vaulted ceilings, freshly painted interiors and beautiful hardwood flooring. Open concept kitchen with granite countertops. Located close to top-rated Lafayette schools, vibrant downtown shops and dining, and convenient freeway access, this home truly has it all!

136 Garden Creek Place

Danville, CA 94526

3 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 1,357 Sq Ft | $889,000 | Julie Whitmer

Walk to Downtown Danville! Beautifully updated townhome in popular Garden Creek! NEW Kitchen Cabinets, quartz counter tops, sink and oven. It also opens to the private patio. Mature landscaping creates the established feel of this conveniently located neighborhood. Walk to downtown shops, farmer’s market, restaurants, events or take a stroll on the Iron Horse Trail. This home is a wonderful blend of convenience and tranquility. Main level powder room. The open staircase leads you up to the three bedrooms and two beautifully updated full baths, including the spacious master suite. The carport has two spaces for dedicated parking. This is a wonderful opportunity to live in the heart of Danville and enjoy the benefits of low maintenance townhome living.

654 Bonair Place

La Jolla, CA 92037

5 Bed | 4 Baths | 2979 Sq Ft | $4,250,000 | Compass Listing

Tucked away on a peaceful corner in La Jolla's coveted Beach-Barber Tract, is a masterfully crafted Spanish-Eclectic residence that blends enduring architectural charm with understated modern elegance. Set behind a gated entry and framed by lush tropical landscaping, this home offers a rare sense of privacy just moments from the coastline. Timeless craftsmanship is evident in every detail, thoughtfully complemented by contemporary upgrades for effortless daily living. Subtle ocean breezes and a sense of calm pervade the space, offering a truly tranquil escape. Located just blocks from the sand, and within easy reach of La Jolla's vibrant village, award-winning schools, bike trails, and Starkey Park, this amazing property is an exceptional opportunity to own a home of architectural significance in one of San Diego's most sought after neighborhoods.

501 Barcelona Drive

Tierra Verde, FL

4 Bed | 6 Bath | 4,318 Sq Ft | $7,950,000 | Compass Listing

Commanding a premier position on Tierra Verde’s Grand Canal, 501 Barcelona Drive is a trophy residence for those who demand architectural excellence, privacy, and an exceptional waterfront lifestyle. Behind its clean modern lines lies a home designed for how you truly want to live—with world-class entertaining and elevated day-to-day living unfolding seamlessly across one impeccably built level. From the disappearing-edge pool to the curated finishes, every detail is conceived to inspire and impress. Located on Tierra Verde’s Grand Canal—some of the most coveted boating water on the Gulf Coast—the property’s dockage, with slip and lift, offers near-instant access to the open Gulf and Intracoastal at one end and Port32 marina at the other. Tierra Verde is a private island community perfectly positioned between the Gulf’s award-winning beaches and the vibrancy of downtown St. Petersburg—with fine dining, acclaimed museums, waterfront parks, and international airports all nearby.