In the early-to-mid 20th century, mortgage-burning parties were a rite of passage for American homeowners. Once that final payment cleared, families hosted full-blown celebrations complete with barbecues, cocktails, and (safely supervised) ceremonial bonfires of the mortgage paperwork. It wasn’t just about being debt-free; it was public proof that you’d “made it.”...

For a luxury night out, we're talking oceanfront terraces, speakeasy vibes, and craft cocktails that feel like art. Whether you're toasting with a partner or hosting high-rollers, these spots deliver elegance, exclusivity, and that effortless OC glamour. Based on the latest buzz from 2025 reviews and insider picks, here's my curated top 10 (in no particular order). Pro tip: Reservations are a must—book ahead via their sites or apps like OpenTable....

Selling your Orange County home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With smart, intentional preparation, you can turn the process into a smooth, rewarding experience and attract top-dollar offers. From Newport Beach to San Clemente, today’s buyers want homes that feel bright, open, and move-in ready. Whether you’re selling a coastal cottage in Laguna Beach, a modern retreat in Irvine, or a bluff-top estate in Dana Point, thoughtful staging and presentation make all the difference....

Owning real estate in one of the world’s most desirable coastal regions means more than enjoying ocean views and sunshine—it means having the opportunity to create lasting financial security and generational wealth....

Orange County real estate is shifting. A recent Bank of America survey revealed what buyers—local, national, and international—want most: affordability....

local pumpkin patches offer the perfect way to celebrate fall while discovering the vibrant lifestyle that defines Orange County...

What Are Mortgage Spreads, Anyway? In simple terms, the mortgage spread is the difference between what lenders pay to borrow money (think: bond yields, Treasurys, etc.) and what they charge you as a homebuyer. When those spreads narrow, lenders can offer better rates. That means your monthly payment goes down — or you can afford a more expensive home for the same payment....

When it comes to attracting luxury buyers, like in Dana Point, a basic backyard simply doesn’t cut it anymore. High-end buyers today expect more than just charm — they’re seeking a home that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living while showcasing the stunning lifestyle that Dana Point has to offer....

When it comes to buying a luxury home in Orange County, the neighborhood is just as important as the home itself. For today’s discerning buyers — whether you’re local, relocating across the country, or investing from abroad — your surroundings shape your lifestyle, your investment, and your everyday experience....

For years, Orange County real estate—especially in prime areas like Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point—has been dominated by sellers. Fast sales, multiple offers, and over-asking prices were the norm. But in 2025, the landscape is evolving. So, is Orange County officially shifting to a buyer’s market? And what does that mean if you're looking to invest in blossoming communities like Dana Point?...

Thinking of Selling in Dana Point? Now's the Time to Make Your Move....

Dana Point, San Clemente, and Laguna Niguel offer a perfect blend of coastal beauty, laid-back luxury, and outdoor adventure—making South Orange County the ultimate destination for a summer well spent. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the season, these charming beach towns invite you to experience the best of California living: from sandy shores and stunning sunsets to gourmet dining, exclusive events, and luxury relaxation. Here's your curated summer guide to exploring these coastal h...

Come see 4th July fireworks in Dana Point, but leave pets home.....

Best of OC GOSEEDO...

If you're looking for your next go-to spot in Southern California that blends rustic charm with refined taste? River Street Marketplace in San Juan Capistrano is where curated culture meets elevated experiences. ...

Despite the rise in mortgage rates and soaring home prices, real estate remains a standout asset class—especially in high-demand markets like Orange County. Whether you’re looking for a luxury estate in Dana Point or an ocean-view home in Laguna Beach, real estate is an investment that offers stability and growth potential....

Mortgage Rates Hit Yearly Lows – Is Now the Time to Buy? If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to invest in luxury real estate, this could be it! Mortgage rates have been trending down for seven straight weeks and are now at their lowest point of the year....

This year, we’re thrilled to announce that Gary Macrides, a top-producing luxury real estate expert and longtime Dana Point resident, has been named 2024 Citizen of the Year by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce!...

A sleek, modern bathroom instantly elevates your home’s perceived value, attracting local, national, and international buyers. ...

The Orange County housing market begins 2025 with a slower pace compared to the fast start of 2024. Elevated mortgage rates, subdued demand, and a slight increase in inventory are reshaping the real estate landscape....

Concerned about a possible housing market downturn in Orange County? Rest assured, the local real estate market remains strong, and here's a few reasons......

While the dramatic peaks have subsided, recent declines offer a glimmer of hope for those eager to enter the market. This fluctuation underscores the importance of staying informed and making strategic decisions. Let’s dive into the details to help you navigate this dynamic landscape!...

As you’ve probably seen in recent news headlines, the nationwide NAR class action settlement will go into effect on August 17, 2024, or earlier depending upon local MLS implementation.  Real estate is always changing, and that's part of the excitement. I wanted to make sure you're in the loop....

Looking to buy or sell in Orange County’s vibrant market? The second half of 2024 is shaping up to be an interesting time. Here’s a quick breakdown of what experts predict for Orange County home prices, mortgage rates, and overall sales activity!...

"For Sale" sign blues got you down? Don't sweat it! Our blog reveals seven secret weapons to transform your home into a buyer magnet and score a speedy sale! ...

The housing market is constantly evolving. The recent National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) lawsuit settlement is a prime example!...

Traditionally, spring has been deemed the optimal time to sell. However, current market dynamics are challenging this conventional wisdom....

One of the primary influencers of home affordability is mortgage rates, and currently, the trend is in favor of potential buyers. Why? Simply put, rates have softened from their recent highs....

So What Does AB 1033 Mean for You? AB 1033 is a game-changer for California's real estate market, with benefits:...

Looking for a quick home sale? It’s achievable with the right steps. Location and market conditions are important, yes. But your efforts are crucial too. Keep reading for pro tips on how to sell your home quickly....

Why do we move? According to the National Association of REALTORS®, major life events have been the driving force behind relocations, especially in the past two years. These transitions continue to shape moving trends, despite the current market’s high mortgage rates. Claire Trapasso, executive news editor at Realtor.com, emphasizes this. She says, “...many of today’s buyers are motivated by life changes, such as growing families, supporting elderly parents or grown children, or accomm...

Are you holding off on selling your house because you’re worried there aren’t enough homebuyers in the market? Well, it’s time to think again! The latest data shows that homebuyers are out in full force, and they aren’t fazed by the slightly higher mortgage rates....

Recall the 2008 housing crash? If you're concerned about a repeat, there’s good news. ...

October has arrived in all its autumnal splendor! From howling Halloween fun to outdoor adventures, this month offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, or art enthusiast, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season....

One of the best ways to create wealth through homeownership......Build equity. Home equity is the percentage of your home’s value that you own. It is also the key to increasing wealth through homeownership. But how exactly do you do that? Keep reading for six savvy strategies to build home equity without busting your budget....

In today’s housing market, it can be confusing to make sense of real estate headlines. Is it a good time to sell? Is it a good time to Buy? Does anyone really know? Well let's look at the data:...

Let freedom ring! This Memorial Day, get out and enjoy the best of Orange County. And whether you want to relax or party, you’ll find something perfect for you in our Memorial Day activity roundup....

STICK TO THE FACTS The best advice in hearing all the talks swirling around the belief that a Real Estate crash lurks around the corner is to ignore the noise and stick to the facts....

Mortgage Applications have indeed increased and despite mortgage rates surging, home buyers’ demand for home loans have also increased....

The time it takes to sell your home depends on a number of factors. However, here's a few proven, foolproof ways to reduce your home’s time on the market. ...

Many current homeowners bought or refinanced their houses during the health crisis of the past few years. Rates were at historic lows at that point — but what about now?...

With spring approaching, we thought it would be the perfect time to share some insight on the state of today’s housing market....

After hearing about falling home prices due to sky-high mortgage rates, buyers expect housing to be slow so they can take their time and not compete in purchasing a home. Instead, they are experiencing long lines of buyers at open houses and multiple offers on homes priced right and in reasonably good condition. Home buyers are frustrated once again....

On the surface, it seems easy to buy or sell a home yourself. After all, you’re intelligent. Why should you hire an agent to do what you can do on your own?...

Here’s a quick look at what’s been going on in the Dana Point, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and San Clemente markets this past month....

While it is a good thing that rates are dropping, don’t wait too long to buy in hopes they hit peak lows. Economists widely agree that rates are very unlikely to drop to 3% anytime soon....

Also known as the Homelessness and Housing Solutions Tax (HHS Tax), Measure ULA creates a new tax on certain Los Angeles property transfers. The goal of the tax is to generate funds for housing subsidies and tenant protections. Keep reading for a list of the must-know highlights of Measure ULA....

If you are thinking about buying a home, you don’t have to give up that goal. But in today’s market, there’s no denying that higher rates affect how much it costs to borrow money for your purchase:...

CONGRATULATIONS Orange Coast Magazine's Top 100 2022 Real Estate All-Star...

No Crash in sight...

Whiskey and rain go together like candy canes and Christmas trees. There’s no better time to sip a glass of fine spirits than a drab, drizzly day. Not that we have many in Orange County, of course — but you’ll be prepared when we do. Just use this list of our favorite spots for rainy day whiskey tastings....

There are a plethora of reasons why owning a home is beneficial that have nothing to do with money or equity. But with mortgage rates so high, it’s easy to be turned off. However, we’d like to counter with some powerful non-financial reasons to think twice....

we’ve compiled the top ways to decorate your home for the season. These ideas are simple, easy, and inexpensive, yet add a beautiful fall flair to your home to welcome the holidays. ...

With the arrival of October, there are countless events to look forward to. To get in the spooky spirit of the season, here's a list of the best things to do around Orange County in the next month....

Laguna Beach 10 delectable spots!...

5 I C O N I C O C S U R F S P O T S ...

Here’s what you need to know about whether the market is correcting based on data from seasoned economists....

Other than retaining a knowledgeable, seasoned Realtor, which is our number one tip for buyers, here are a few other things you can do to improve your chances of winning a bidding war....

Are you still renting? If so, we’ve compiled a few of the top reasons why buying a home may benefit you more than continuing to spend your hard-earned money on monthly rent....

Whether you’re on your first home—or your third—when you realize the home you’re currently living in could use an extra room, or an upgrade, you may be considering a move. However, if you’re happy with your location, a renovation may be a better alternative. The question often centers around the difference in the cost of a renovation versus a home purchase. And then there’s the third option: both....

according to data from the last several years (leaving out the atypical 2020), there is indeed a preferred week of the year for sellers to put their home on the market — and it’s just around the corner. According to this research, “The week of April 10 – 16 is expected to have the ideal balance of housing market conditions that favor home sellers, more so than any other week in the year.”...

Did you know that millennials make up the largest group of prospective buyers in the market today — and has since back in 2014? This information courtesy of the National Association of REALTORS® is telling. If you fall into the millennial camp, you are either a first-time home buyer — or an owner who may have come to realize that you need more space than your current home provides....

You may be wondering if you have to wait until you’ve paid off your student loans before you can dip your toe into the real estate pool. The answer is, no. ...

A recent survey from LendingTree.com has revealed that many Americans favor home ownership over renting. In fact, 88% of Americans would rather own a home than rent one. In general, purchasing a home is regarded as a good investment compared to renting because you build equity—the difference between what you owe on the home and its appreciated market value. If you’re spending money each month on a place to live, why not make that money build equity for yourself, rather than building equity f...

The cost of lumber has dramatically shifted during the pandemic, due in part to a work slowdown at lumber mills dating back to April 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic took hold and sawmills slowed production in anticipation of reduced demand. ...

Renovate or move…depends…...

Almost one year after mortgage rates hit an all-time low, mortgage rates spiked the past few weeks, according to data compiled by Credible. This time last year, mortgage rates were at 2.65% for a 30-year home loan. However, in recent weeks, that number has ballooned to 3.750 percent....

The imbalance between robust demand and dismal availability of for-sale homes has led to a continual bidding over asking prices...

If you’re one of the almost 23% of workers who will stay 100% remote, it’s only natural to ask yourself if your current space fits the bill when it comes to working from home. You have more flexibility when it comes to where you can live if you’re not tied down to a specific area for your job, and now may be the perfect time to make the leap and move to your dream location — whether that’s near the beach, the desert, or a new master-planned community....

I’d like to sell my house during the holidays!” said no one ever. However, there are actually many benefits to putting your home on the market at a time when inventory is low and buyers are serious....

5 reasons why we are currently experiencing a very abnormal housing market....

“You get what you pay for.” This is especially true when it comes to real estate in Orange County. It’s no secret that housing is more expensive here than in other counties, but what are some concrete reasons so many people are willing to pay what’s known as the “Orange County premium”? ...

Think it makes more sense to put off until the new year? Think again. We are currently experiencing the ultimate seller’s market — and it won’t last forever. Read on for the top three reasons to sell your home this fall....

Kick Halloween season off right with safe outdoor fun to keep your family entertained....

Kick Halloween season off right with safe outdoor fun to keep your family entertained....

If you encounter an appraisal below the contract price, the most common approach is for the seller to ask the buyer to make up the difference in price. As a buyer, it’s important to be prepared to bring extra money to the table if this happens and you truly desire the home....

According to a recent industry survey, a portion of young homebuyers ranging from 25 to 40 are unsure about the process of homeownership and what they can afford. The data shows that one in four underestimated their buying potential by $150,000 or more, one in four underestimated the increase in value by $100,000 or more, and 47% don’t know what a good interest rate is....

Quick 5 smaller upgrades that will bring in offers and increase your home’s sale price....

You may think young people are not buying homes — and you’re partially correct. Some younger generations, particularly millennials, have indeed taken longer to buy their first homes than older age groups...

as the vacation season winds down, it’s natural to ask yourself what you should do with your summer retreat....

What exactly is home price appreciation? Simply put, it is the increase in value of a home over time. Appreciation can occur for many reasons, including rising demand, low supply, or as a result of inflation or interest rates. For sellers, this is great news........

how much cheaper homes were in the past....

The housing industry is notoriously fickle. Seller’s markets, buyer’s markets, inventory ebbs and flows — it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why if you’re a serious prospective buyer, there are three questions you need to ask yourself to ensure you make the most informed decision possible....

Family Fun, Concerts in the Park...

What trends do experts predict will arise in the latter half of the year? Read on to find out....

Finding the right home involves doing research and asking the right questions. Make sure you get the answers to these important FAQs....

Providing market insights that matter to you in the complex and competitive Dana Point real estate market. As your trusted advisor, we provide you with the current trending data to help guide you through the home buying and selling process...

The average mortgage rate for a 30-year fixed loan has jumped to 3.02% ...

2021’s housing market is starting out strong, and with it has emerged several design trends for the heart of your home: the kitchen. Take a look at what’s sure to top buyers’ wish lists in the coming year....

Several design trends emerging for the heart of your home: the kitchen. ...

Realtors Predicts Further Growth and Rising Home Prices in 2021...

Proposition 19 Pros & Cons for Homeowners and Heirs...

As the year draws to a close, have some fun and celebrate all things merry and bright at these festive family holiday events in and around Orange County....

you may be wondering what state the housing market is in and where it’s headed....

Though summer has come to a close and the holidays are around the corner, the luxury housing market is holding steady in vacation destinations like Palm Beach, Aspen, The Hamptons, and of course Coastal Orange County. ...

As a seller in today’s market, you may think that pricing your home on the high end of the neighborhood comps will result in more money on your overall sale—but the opposite is actually true! ...

selling your house this fall might be the way to go, here's 4 reasons...

Online Selling- Sellers have only about seven to ten seconds to engage buyers and present their houses in the best possible light..... That’s right—home selling now shares much in common with online dating, a platform in which a good first impression earns a swipe right, but a bad one means on to the next....

The autumn season is upon us, welcoming shorter days and retail stores stocked with all things holiday. As for the real estate market, the summer surge in activity is projected to continue steadily through the fall. Here are our top five tips for ensuring a successful sale this season....

Here are ten design tips for achieving the perfect Feng Shui design in your home....

A survey by Better Homes and Gardens found that 64% of millennials are interested in having smart technology in their homes. Given that a recent National Association of REALTORS® study showed that millennials represent the largest share of potential home-buyers in today’s market, sellers should definitely be looking to invest in technology upgrades. ...

What truly differentiates an agent from an app — and even further, a good agent from a great agent — is the willingness to go above and beyond for their clients....

Many advantages to these often overlooked in-between residences or “tweeners” that are too nice to become complete tear-downs, but that could use a bit more work than some buyers are currently willing to undertake....

While our current global landscape changed certain aspects of the home buying and selling process for the foreseeable future, we have quickly adapted to the new normal and so keeping the following points in mind will pave the way for success in today’s market:...

Economists have noted a distinct pattern in the housing market: instead of slowing down, it is actually booming....

Orange County is well known for its pristine coastline and relaxed lifestyle—and when it comes to ways of spending time at the beach while social distancing, there’s no shortage of options. Here are some of our favorite beach activities....