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The Best Museums in Los Angeles for Art and Architecture Enthusiasts | Out & About

There is a quiet wonder in surrounding oneself with curated beauty. In Southern California, the art of living well extends far beyond the walls of a private sanctuary. Likewise, this extension is into the cultural landmarks that define our most coveted neighborhoods. For connoisseurs of fine design and modern masterpieces, there is much to marvel over in LA. As such, visiting the best museums in Los Angeles offers endless inspiration for cultivating an elegant home. A beauty that’s seen in hilltop sanctuaries framed by Italian travertine to contemporary urban structures bathed in natural light. Viewing these cultural treasures showcases how world-class architecture and fine art elevate our daily lives.

Architectural Marvels of the Westside

When exploring the best museums in Los Angeles for breathtaking design and hilltop tranquility, the Westside offers unmatched architectural splendor.

  • The Getty Center: Perched high above Brentwood, Richard Meier’s travertine-clad masterpiece seamlessly blends modernist precision with terraced garden rooms and ocean breezes. Patrons enjoying after-hours access can savor private views of Impressionist masterpieces before strolling through Robert Irwin’s vibrant Central Garden at sunset.

  • The Getty Villa: Tucked quietly along the Pacific Palisades coast, this re-created ancient Roman country house celebrates classical antiquities amidst fragrant herb gardens, bronze sculptures, and courtyard reflecting pools.

Living near these Westside enclaves allows discerning homebuyers to cultivate a lifestyle where timeless architectural craft and serene landscape design meet right at your doorstep.

Contemporary Masterpieces and Private Tours Downtown

In the dynamic heart of Downtown Los Angeles, cutting-edge structures transform the urban skyline. Here, the best museums in Los Angeles serve as vibrant inspiration for modern art collectors.

  • The Broad: Designed by world-renowned firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro, this contemporary marvel features a striking “veil-and-vault” design. Its honeycomb exterior filters natural daylight over a column-free gallery space. Exclusive private gallery tours offer collectors intimate access to postwar and contemporary masterpieces.

  • LACMA: Situated along Wilshire Boulevard, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art bridges classical heritage with bold modern innovation. Its dramatic exhibition pavilions and iconic light installations remain an essential destination. For design enthusiasts seeking the best museums in Los Angeles for contemporary culture, LACMA is where it’s at.

For collectors who cherish city energy, penthouse residences and restored Mid-Century Modern lofts nearby offer effortless access to high-profile gallery openings and private collector salons.

Historic Splendor and Botanical Craftsmanship in Pasadena

Further east, you’ll find the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens. A hidden gem where historic estates line tree-shaded avenues. The classic cultural institution reflects a rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship and garden design.

  • The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: Resting on 130 expansive acres in San Marino near Pasadena, Myron Hunt’s Mediterranean Revival architecture houses extraordinary British and American art collections. Wandering through the serene gardens feels like visiting a private estate built for quiet reflection and creative thought.

For homebuyers who appreciate fine art and architectural history, living near the best museums in Los Angeles brings daily access to world-class culture. From Mid-Century Modern estates in Pasadena to hillside architectural sanctuaries in Bel-Air. The best museums in Los Angeles are cultural institutions that enrich both our homes and our daily lives.

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Outdoor Kitchen Ideas for Summer Entertaining in Los Angeles | Home Tips

Summer entertaining in Los Angeles has a rhythm all its own. The light lasts longer, evenings feel softer, and the best gatherings often happen outside, where dinner can stretch from golden hour into candlelight. For luxury homeowners, an outdoor kitchen is more than a place to grill. It is a natural extension of the home and a centerpiece for warm-weather living.

The most thoughtful outdoor kitchen ideas blend beauty, function, and ease. Whether your space overlooks the hills, opens onto a pool deck, or sits beside a quiet garden patio, the right design can turn everyday hosting into something that feels effortless and memorable.

Start with a Strong Layout

A beautiful outdoor kitchen begins with flow. Before choosing finishes or appliances, think about how the space will be used. Will guests gather near the cook area? Is there room for serving platters? Can someone move easily between the indoor kitchen, dining table, and lounge seating?

For larger Los Angeles properties, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen may include a grill, sink, refrigerator, storage, prep counter, and bar seating. Smaller patios can still feel elevated with a streamlined built-in grill, stone counter, and compact beverage fridge. The best outdoor kitchen ideas are not always the largest. They are the ones that make hosting feel natural.

Choose Materials That Can Handle the Season

Los Angeles summers bring sun, heat, and plenty of outdoor use, so materials matter. Natural stone, porcelain slab, stainless steel, concrete, and sealed tile are all strong choices for outdoor kitchens. They offer durability while still feeling refined.

For a warmer look, consider pairing stone counters with wood-look cabinetry or teak accents. If your home leans more modern, sleek surfaces and clean-lined finishes will create a polished effect. The goal is to choose materials that complement the architecture of the home rather than compete with it.

Make the Grill the Star

No outdoor kitchen is complete without a great cooking station. Built-in grills remain a favorite for summer entertaining, but many luxury homeowners are also incorporating pizza ovens, smokers, flat-top griddles, and warming drawers.

A pizza oven, in particular, adds charm and interaction to an evening. Guests can gather nearby while dinner is prepared, making the cooking process part of the experience. When considering outdoor kitchen ideas, think about the type of hosting you enjoy most and choose appliances that support that lifestyle.

Add a Beverage Moment

A dedicated drink station instantly makes outdoor entertaining feel more relaxed. A small refrigerator, wine cooler, ice drawer, or built-in bar area allows guests to help themselves without constant trips inside.

Style the area with glassware, citrus, herbs, sparkling water, and seasonal mixers. For summer in Los Angeles, a bar setup with fresh lime, grapefruit, mint, and chilled rosé feels easy and elegant. It also keeps the host from being tied to the kitchen all night, which is always the goal.

Create Comfortable Dining and Lounge Zones

The most successful outdoor kitchens are designed as part of a larger entertaining space. Nearby dining and lounge areas help guests settle in and enjoy the evening.

Choose comfortable seating, outdoor rugs, shade umbrellas, and soft lighting to make the space feel complete. A dining table close to the kitchen keeps meals easy to serve, while lounge seating near the pool or garden gives guests somewhere to relax after dinner. These layered outdoor kitchen ideas help turn the backyard into a true summer destination.

Finish with Lighting and Atmosphere

Lighting is what carries an outdoor kitchen from daytime cooking to evening entertaining. Consider sconces, pendant lights, pathway lighting, and lanterns to create a warm glow.

In Los Angeles, where outdoor living is one of the great luxuries of homeownership, atmosphere matters. With the right mix of function, style, and comfort, these outdoor kitchen ideas can help create a space that feels beautiful, practical, and ready for every summer gathering.

 

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Mortgage Rate Update | July 30, 2026

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of July 30, 2026, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.66%, up from 6.58% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.04%, up from 5.96% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

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From Zoox Robotaxis to DoorDash Air and More! | Tech News

Wrap up your week with the latest news buzzing in the world of tech! From Zoox Robotaxis to DoorDash Air and more, we have you covered with the top headlines. Check out what’s happening from across the web in this week’s tech news wrap-up!

Xiaomi Unveils an EV Designed Like a Living Space

The Chinese tech giant is expanding deeper into electric vehicles with the SkyNomad N90 Max, its first extended-range SUV. Boasting a range over 1,700 kilometers (roughly 1,059 miles), it will come in five- and seven-seat configurations. Inside, the cabin shifts between driving and lounging thanks to rotating front seats, reclining second-row chairs, footrests, and a sliding table. A dedicated Camping Edition dials up the outdoor utility with a pop-up roof, rooftop sleeping platform, tent connector, and detachable table.

Zoox Receives Approval to Charge for Robotaxi Rides

Federal regulators have granted Amazon’s autonomous vehicle subsidiary, Zoox, a temporary exemption that clears the way for paid passenger trips in its custom-built robotaxis. The landmark decision allows Zoox to deploy up to 5,000 of its purpose-built, steering-wheel-free vehicles across public roads over the next two years. Until now, Zoox had focused on offering free demonstration rides to refine its technology and accumulate real-world mileage in dense urban hubs like San Francisco and Las Vegas. With commercial authorization finally secured, Zoox plans to launch its paid fare service in Las Vegas next month, with aggressive expansions into Miami and Austin following close behind. By taking this major regulatory step, Zoox positions itself as a formidable competitor against established autonomous ride-hailing players like Waymo and Tesla.

Microsoft Confirms a Copilot Super App Is Coming

A unified “super app” bringing Microsoft’s scattered AI offerings under one roof is slated to arrive later this year. CEO Satya Nadella announced the platform will bundle Copilot chat, GitHub Copilot, coding tools, and autonomous agents into a single hub for both consumers and enterprise users. Instead of forcing people to jump between separate apps, the goal is to create one seamless interface for everyday tasks and workplace productivity.

Meta Prepares a Push Into Personal AI Agents

Mark Zuckerberg’s tech empire is building personal AI helpers meant to work continuously on behalf of everyday users. Likewise, this moves beyond developer-focused tools. Of course, specific product details remain under wraps. It is rumored that agents are being tailored to help manage personal organization, finances, relationships, and daily communication. Meta already sees heavy enterprise use with its WhatsApp and Messenger business bots, but these upcoming personal agents represent a key foundation for its consumer strategy.

Moving Beyond Delivery Partnerships, DoorDash Air Takes Flight

The food delivery giant has secured FAA air carrier certification to launch its own dedicated drone program, DoorDash Air. The company will not be relying strictly on partners like Alphabet’s Wing. Instead, the company’s internal Labs team will design and assemble its own aircraft. Additionally, DoorDash will be building out ground infrastructure for restaurant loading and flight routing. Bringing the hardware in-house gives DoorDash complete control over how aerial fulfillment fits into its broader network.

Apple’s Rumored HomePad Could Arrive This Fall

October could bring the debut of a dedicated smart home display from Apple. The potential HomePad product drop is rumored to feature a seven-inch square screen running a tailored version of tvOS. Likewise, it will be built around an upgraded Siri interface. Additionally, the device is expected to handle video calls, security monitoring, intercom chats, and personalized layouts for different users. The launch signals a direct push into territory long dominated by Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub. Of course, this comes with rumor-milled updates to Apple’s broader home hardware lineup.

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Weekend Events | July 31 – August 2

Close out July with a bang! From fireworks and sound at the Hollywood Bowl to Shakespeare in the park and more, we have you covered with summer fun. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood July 31 through August 2. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | July 31 – August 2 

Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks

When: July 31 – August 1 

Where: Hollywood Bowl | Hollywood

What: Conductor Chloé Dufresne leads the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s cherished summer tradition, joined by L.A.-based circus company Troupe Vertigo for captivating performances set to highlights from Swan Lake and Marche Slave. The evening concludes with the iconic 1812 Overture, featuring the USC Trojan Marching Band and the Hollywood Bowl’s signature fireworks spectacular.

Death Cab for Cutie

When: August 2 – August 3 

Where: Griffith Park 

What: Catch Death Cab for Cutie live at the Greek Theatre for an evening of the band’s signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and melodic indie rock. Touring in support of their latest album, I Built You A Tower, the longtime favorites will perform two nights of fan favorites and new music at one of Los Angeles’ most iconic outdoor venues.

MAUM Market

When: August 1 – December 19 

Where: Arts District | Downtown Los Angeles

What: Discover unique finds at MAUM Market, returning to ROW DTLA with a thoughtfully curated selection of goods from AAPI artists, makers, and small businesses. Browse everything from handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and home décor to beauty products, stationery, clothing, and specialty treats. With free admission and a family- and pet-friendly atmosphere, it’s a wonderful way to support local creatives while enjoying a day of shopping.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | July 31 – August 2 

The Actors’ Gang Shakespeare in the Park

When: August 1 – August 30 

Where: Palms

What: Just when you thought Shakespeare was sounding a little, well, dated, enter the Actors’ Gang. Each summer, the Culver City theater spins a different play from the Bard into a high-energy, family-friendly and free-to-attend production, often wrapped in an irreverent theme (think everything from Toy Story to Power Rangers). This time around, Two Gentlemen of Verona gets a sci-fi twist dubbed Two Gentlebots of Verona. You’ll find the play the first four weekends in August at Culver City’s Media Park, then at the Buena Vista Branch Library in Burbank the last weekend of August.

Chargers Training Camp at the Bolt

When: Until August 17 

Where: El Segundo

What: Get an early look at the upcoming NFL season during the Los Angeles Chargers’ free public training camp in El Segundo. Fans can watch open practices from covered bleacher seating, catch themed events throughout the summer, and experience the excitement of training camp before the regular season kicks off. Space is limited, making this a great opportunity for football fans of all ages.

OC Fair

When: Until August 16 

Where: Costa Mesa

What: A Southern California tradition since 1889, the OC Fair returns with a month of carnival rides, fried food, rodeos, demolition derbies, and classic summertime fun. Beyond the midway, the fair features an impressive concert lineup with performances from Willie Nelson, Cypress Hill, Patti LaBelle, Diana Ross, Alison Krauss, Steve Aoki, Boy George, and more, plus a comedy set from Trevor Noah. It’s part county fair, part music festival, and one of the region’s biggest summer events.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | July 31 – August 2 

The Roaring Rendition Speakeasy Ball

When: July 31 – August 1 

Where: Vitello’s | Studio City

What: Step back into the Roaring Twenties at the 10th anniversary celebration of the hidden Rendition Room. Tucked behind Vitello’s, this beloved speakeasy is marking the occasion with a glamorous themed party featuring a welcome cocktail, buffet dinner, Prohibition-inspired drinks, and a costume contest for guests dressed in their finest 1920s or 1930s attire.

Brand Summer Concert Series

When: Until August 28 

Where: Glendale

What: Pack a picnic and head to Brand Park for Glendale’s annual free summer concert series. Held on Friday evenings through the end of August, the outdoor performances feature an eclectic mix of genres, from retro jazz and soul to pop, Armenian folk, Congolese rumba, Cuban rhythms, and rock. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, settle onto the grassy hillside behind the library, and enjoy a relaxing evening of live music in one of Glendale’s most picturesque parks.

Classic Films Under the Stars

When: Until September 26 

Where: Brand Park | Glendale

What: Spend a summer evening under the stars with the Alex Film Society as it brings classic movies outdoors to Brand Park. Held on the lawn during the warmer months, this seasonal series offers the chance to enjoy beloved films in a relaxed park setting, making it a favorite tradition for movie lovers of all ages.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | July 31 – August 2 

Ventura County Fair

 

When: July 29 – August 9 

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds | 10 West Harbor Boulevard, Ventura

What: Experience one of Ventura County’s favorite summer traditions at the Ventura County Fairgrounds during the 2026 Ventura County Fair. From carnival rides and live entertainment to farm animals, local exhibits, games, and all the classic fair food favorites, there’s something for every age to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for the concerts, the midway, or the agricultural displays, it’s a quintessential Southern California summer outing.

100th Anniversary of Jungleland Event at Stagecoach Inn Museum

When: August 1 

Where: 51 S Ventu Park Rd, Newbury Park

What: Celebrate a century of Jungleland at the Stagecoach Inn Museum with a special day honoring Ventura County’s legendary wildlife attraction. The family-friendly event features historical presentations, a gallery walk of rare photos and memorabilia, a portrayal of famed tiger trainer Mabel Stark, children’s activities, animal-themed fun, and local food. It’s a fascinating opportunity to explore a unique chapter of Southern California history.

Camarillo Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K

When: August 2 

Where: Pleasant Valley Fields | 150 Westpark Ct, Camarillo

What: Lace up for the Camarillo Marathon, a scenic race day featuring a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K for runners of all experience levels. The race starts and finishes at Pleasant Valley Fields. The courses follow the Camarillo Bike Path and surrounding roads, offering a welcoming community atmosphere for participants and spectators alike.

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Best Restaurants in Malibu for Coastal Dining | L.A. Eats

Malibu dining is more than a meal by the water. It is ocean air, canyon views, fresh seafood, and the kind of effortless coastal setting that makes Los Angeles living feel cinematic. From casual seafood shacks to polished oceanfront dining rooms, the best restaurants in Malibu offer something for every kind of outing, whether it is a beach day lunch, a romantic sunset dinner, or a weekend drive up Pacific Coast Highway.

Here are the best restaurants in Malibu to know for standout coastal dining.

Broad Street Oyster Company

Location: 23359 CA-1 #3874A, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Broad Street Oyster Company has become one of Malibu’s most destination-worthy casual seafood spots. Hidden inside Malibu Country Mart, it serves fresh oysters, scallop crudo, fried seafood, fish tacos, and a lobster roll that has earned serious local devotion. Add extra butter and lobster if the day calls for a little indulgence.

Lucky’s Malibu

Location: 3835 Cross Creek Road, Suite #18, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Lucky’s Malibu brings a classic steakhouse experience to a tucked-away corner of Cross Creek. The menu covers grilled chops, generous sides, matzoh ball soup, chili, and all the familiar comforts expected from a polished steakhouse. It is quieter than some of Malibu’s flashier spots, which is exactly part of its charm.

Lily’s Cafe and Pastries

Location: 29211 Heathercliff Road, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Lily’s Cafe and Pastries is a local favorite for casual, satisfying Mexican food in a no-fuss shopping center off Heathercliff Road. Many Malibu locals and Pepperdine students swear by the breakfast burrito, especially when paired with the restaurant’s spicy salsa. For something lighter, the huevos rancheros and icy horchata make an equally comforting order.

Malibu Seafood

Location: 25653 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA, 90265, US

Malibu Seafood has been a PCH staple since 1972, drawing beachgoers, hikers, and road-trippers with classic seafood stand fare. The menu includes fried fish, shrimp, clam strips, squid, oysters, grilled seafood plates, fish sandwiches, and seasonal steamers. The tiered patio offers sweeping Pacific views, making it one of the best restaurants in Malibu for a relaxed coastal lunch.

Nobu Malibu

Location: 22706 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Nobu Malibu remains one of the most famous dining destinations in the city. Set directly on the ocean, the restaurant pairs sleek service with celebrated Japanese dishes, sashimi, sushi, and signature plates designed for sharing. Reservations are famously competitive, but the setting alone keeps it among the best restaurants in Malibu for a special night out.

Taverna Tony

Location: 23410 Civic Center Way, Malibu, CA, 90265, US

Taverna Tony brings lively Greek dining to Malibu Country Mart. The patio fills quickly on warm weekends as guests share taramosalata, calamari, lamb souvlaki, Greek potatoes, and whole branzino. With cocktails, wine, live music, and belly dancers on select nights, it is a festive choice after the beach.

Malibu Farm Cafe

Location: 23000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Malibu Farm Cafe is practically synonymous with pier dining in Malibu. The counter-service cafe offers ocean views alongside breakfast sandwiches, smoked salmon scrambles, lobster rolls, burgers, and fish tacos. Its easygoing feel makes it ideal for daytime dining with out-of-town guests.

Clark’s Oyster Bar

Location: 23465 Civic Center Way, Malibu, CA, 90265, US

Clark’s Oyster Bar brings a refined seafood experience to the Park at Cross Creek. The menu includes oysters, crudo, rockfish ceviche, crab cakes, lobster rolls, wedge salad, and a standout brunch Dungeness crab omelet. Its sunny patio and polished coastal design make it one of the best restaurants in Malibu for a stylish group meal.

Mastro’s Ocean Club

Location: 18412 E Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Mastro’s Ocean Club delivers the grand oceanfront steakhouse experience Malibu does so well. Seafood towers, steaks, fish, and decadent sides all arrive in a dining room framed by rugged Pacific views. Finish with the signature butter cake for a true celebratory meal.

Neptune’s Net

Location: 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, USA

Neptune’s Net is a classic Malibu stop with a personality all its own. Since 1956, the restaurant has served fried clams, shrimp, chowder, fish tacos, grilled seafood, and cold beer to surfers, bikers, families, and road-trippers. Its wood-plank patio and ocean views make it one of the most memorable casual dining spots along PCH.

From beachside seafood to refined steakhouse dining, the best restaurants in Malibu capture the effortless beauty of coastal Los Angeles. Whether you are planning a day by the water or an evening overlooking the Pacific, Malibu offers a dining scene as memorable as its views.

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The Best Golf Courses in Los Angeles for Country Club Living | Out & About

There is a distinct, serene rhythm to morning in Southern California. Long before the city fully awakens, a gentle coastal mist lingers in the canyons, dew glistens across velvet fairways, and the quiet, crisp crack of a driver echoes through the air. In Southern California, golf is far more than a pastime—it is a cherished lifestyle woven directly into the fabric of refined coastal living. For discerning homebuyers, residing near premier golf courses in Los Angeles represents the ultimate expression of personal leisure, architectural elegance, and an exclusive sense of community.

Legendary Private Clubs of the Westside

When exploring the most storied golf courses in Los Angeles, conversation inevitably turns to the Golden Age masterpieces that anchored the city’s premier residential enclaves. Nestled within rolling hillsides and shaded by towering eucalyptus trees, these historic private havens offer architectural brilliance alongside an incomparably sophisticated social scene.

  • Bel-Air Country Club: Designed by George C. Thomas in 1925, this iconic course weaves through four private canyons connected by suspension bridges and picturesque tunnels. Living along its perimeter means waking to sweeping verdant views from your morning terrace.

  • The Los Angeles Country Club: Positioned along the border of Beverly Hills, LACC’s North Course is globally revered. Its classic layout offers members a secluded sanctuary of historic prestige and quiet grandeur amidst the vibrant energy of West Los Angeles.

  • The Riviera Country Club: Tucked into Pacific Palisades, Riviera combines ocean breezes with world-class tournament heritage. Its grand Spanish Revival clubhouse remains a cherished centerpiece for multi-generational gatherings, Sunday brunches, and relaxed afternoon dining.

Coastal Drama and Public Splendor

Exclusivity is not confined solely behind private gates. For those who seek sweeping Pacific vistas alongside world-class play, Southern California offers remarkable semi-private and public destinations that celebrate the region’s dramatic natural topography.

Among the standout golf courses in Los Angeles for breathtaking scenery is Palos Verdes Golf Club in Palos Verdes Estates. Co-designed by George C. Thomas and William P. Bell, this 1924 ocean-view masterpiece winds through pine-lined barrancas, offering panoramic vistas of Santa Monica Bay. Its classic Mediterranean clubhouse serves as a historic social hub for the Peninsula’s most discerning homeowners.

Embracing the Country Club Lifestyle

For luxury buyers, purchasing a residence near these iconic grounds is about far more than convenience to the first tee. It is about embracing a daily ritual defined by architectural craftsmanship, lush greenery, and effortless entertaining.

From restored 1920s Spanish Revival estates overlooking the greens in Pacific Palisades to a contemporary glass sanctuary in Brentwood. Guard-gated estates in Bel-Air and a new modern twist. All of the latter prove one thing: homes adjacent to top golf courses hold timeless appeal and enduring value. These properties offer expansive grounds, sun-drenched verandas, and a seamless connection to nature. Here, weekend alfresco lunches and twilight rounds of golf blend effortlessly into the art of living well.

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Economic Update | Week Ending July 25, 2026

The economy showed continued resilience last week despite ongoing inflation concerns and geopolitical uncertainty. U.S. business activity strengthened, with both the manufacturing and services sectors expanding, led by stronger consumer spending and a pickup in service-related activity. However, rising oil prices, renewed tariff announcements, and continued tensions in the Middle East kept inflation risks elevated, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve will likely leave interest rates unchanged at its meeting this week while maintaining a cautious outlook. Mortgage rates remained near recent highs, and investors continue to closely watch inflation, energy prices, and the Fed’s next move.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of July 23, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.58%, up slightly from 6.55% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.96%, up slightly from 5.93% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

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Stock markets – Major U.S. stock indexes traded near all-time highs last week, supported by strong corporate earnings and confidence that the economy continues to expand despite elevated interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 52,947.26, up 1.5% from 52,146.42 last week. It is up 10.2% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,411.98, down 0.6% from 7,457.69 last week. The S&P is up 8.3% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 25,975.82, up 1.8% from 25,520.24 last week. It is up 11.8% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.

U.S. Treasury Bonds – Treasury yields moved higher during the week as bond investors remained cautious about inflation and the Federal Reserve, keeping mortgage rates under upward pressure heading into next week’s CPI report. The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.69%, up from 4.56% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 5.16%, up from 5.06% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Home sales figures are released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. Here is a summary of the June existing home sales reports.

U.S. existing-home sales – June 2026 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 4.09 units on an annualized basis in June, down 2.4% month-over-month from 4.17 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in May but up 2.8% from the number of homes sold last June. The median price paid for a home in the U.S. in June was $440,600, up 1.8% from $423,700 one year ago. There was 4.6-month supply of homes for sale in June. First-time home buyers accounted for 33% of all homes sold, 28% of all sales were cash buyers, 14% of sales were investors or second home buyers, and 3% of sales were foreclosure or short sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 279,880 on an adjusted annualized basis in June, up 6% from 264,110 annualized sales in June 2025. The statewide median pricepaid for a home was $904,640 in June, down 2.8% from $930,260 in May, but up 0.4% from $901,310 last June. Housing inventory tightened in June. The Unsold Inventory Index showed that there was 3.1-month supply of homes for sale in June, down from a 3.8-month supply last June.

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I hope you are having a great week!
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Entryway Decor Ideas That Give Your Space a Summer Refresh | Home Tips

Summer in Los Angeles has a way of turning every home visit into an occasion, making fresh entryway decor ideas essential for welcoming seasonal visitors. Friends stop by before dinner reservations, family arrives for long weekends, and neighbors linger a little longer after sunset. Before anyone steps into the living room or out toward the patio, your entry sets the tone for the entire home.

For luxury homeowners, the entry should feel polished, relaxed, and elevated. The best entryway decor ideas balance beauty, function, and a sense of effortless welcome. With a few thoughtful seasonal updates, your front door, foyer, or covered porch will feel fresh, inviting, and perfectly prepared for summer guests.

Seasonal Planter Entryway Decor Ideas

A pair of well-placed planters can instantly elevate your foyer and porch. When exploring entryway decor ideas for Southern California homes, choose greenery that can handle summer heat while maintaining a refined aesthetic. Olive trees, boxwood, lavender, rosemary, and sculptural succulents all bring organic texture without requiring constant care.

For a softer look, mix in white blooms, trailing greenery, or pale seasonal flowers. Large ceramic, stone, or terracotta planters feel far more sophisticated than lightweight plastic options and add grounding weight to the overall design. Planters remain one of the easiest entryway decor ideas to build curb appeal before guests even reach the door.

Refresh Your Porch with Modern Entryway Decor Ideas

A worn doormat can quietly age an otherwise beautiful entrance. Summer is the ideal time to swap in a clean, simple mat that complements your broader entryway decor ideas.

Natural coir mats remain a classic choice, especially when layered over a larger outdoor rug in a subtle stripe or woven texture. Keep the palette neutral or coastal rather than overly themed. A fresh mat ensures your entryway decor ideas remain practical while offering guests a clean place to wipe off shoes after walking through garden paths, driveways, or poolside areas.

Lighting Entryway Decor Ideas to Upgrade Your Atmosphere

Lighting is one of the most overlooked ways to style your entryway, yet it can completely transform the mood of a home’s exterior. During summer, guests often arrive later in the evening, making soft, flattering illumination essential.

Clean existing sconces, replace dim bulbs, and opt for warm-toned lighting to create an inviting glow. Lanterns near the front door, pathway lights along the walkway, or a statement pendant in a covered entry are versatile entryway decor ideas that make the approach feel intentional. The goal is not brightness alone, but rather it’s pure atmosphere.

Console Table Ideas Styled with Intention

If your entry includes a console table, keep the styling simple, functional, and seasonal. A ceramic bowl for keys, a sculptural lamp, a small tray, and fresh greenery can make the space feel curated without becoming cluttered.

For summer, try adding a tall vase with branches, garden clippings, or fresh white flowers. A framed piece of art or a mirror above the console helps reflect natural light and opens up the foyer. The most effective concepts are often those that feel effortless, as though every piece naturally belongs in the space.

Scent-Based Entryway Decor Ideas for Summer

Scent is a subtle but unforgettable component of welcoming guests. Incorporating clean fragrances into your entryway instantly makes a home feel more luxurious and inviting.

Choose notes that feel light and seasonal, such as citrus, white tea, fig, jasmine, or fresh herbs. A reed diffuser works well for consistent fragrance, while a candle can be lit just before guests arrive. Avoid anything overpowering during warmer months, as the best scent-focused entryway decor ideas offer a subtle whisper, not a loud announcement.

Effortless Styling for Maximum Curb Appeal

A refreshed entryway does not require a complete architectural overhaul. Small, deliberate updates, from planters and lighting to mats and scents, can make a meaningful difference in how your home is experienced.

For Los Angeles luxury homeowners, the styling ideas are rooted in ease, elegance, and a strong sense of place. A beautiful entry should feel like the beginning of summer itself: warm, relaxed, and ready to welcome everyone in.

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Mortgage Rate Update | July 23, 2026

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of July 23, 2026, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.58%, up slightly from 6.55% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.96%, up slightly from 5.93% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

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