Rodeo Realty

July 10, 2026

Economic Update | Week Ending July 11, 2026

Next week, all eyes will be on the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which should provide a clearer picture of the direction of inflation. One of the key factors we’ll be watching is whether the recent decline in gasoline prices helped ease overall inflation during June. Lower energy costs can have a meaningful impact on the headline CPI, although core inflation, which excludes food and energy, will remain the Federal Reserve’s primary focus. A softer-than-expected inflation report could improve the outlook for interest rates and mortgage rates, while a higher reading may reinforce the Fed’s cautious approach.

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 9, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.49%, up from 6.43% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.82%, up from 5.79% last week.

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

Stock markets – Stocks finished the week mixed but generally resilient, with the S&P 500 posting another weekly gain as investors looked ahead to next week’s June CPI report and the start of second-quarter earnings season. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 52,637.01, down 0.5% from 52,900.07 last week. It is up 9.5% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,575.39, up 1.2% from 7,483.24 last week. The S&P is up 10.7% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 26,281.61, up 1.7% from 25,832.67 last week. It is up 13.1% 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 4.56%, up from 4.49% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 5.06%, up from 4.98% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

I hope you are having a great weekend!

July 9, 2026

Mortgage Rate Update | July 9, 2026

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.49%, up from 6.43% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.82%, up from 5.79% last week.

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

July 9, 2026July 9, 2026

From Meta Spark AI to Starlink and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech and media! From Meta Spark AI moves to Starlink deployments and more, we have you covered. Tune into the buzz below!

Meta Opens Its Muse Spark AI Model to More Developers

Meta is expanding access to its newest artificial intelligence model, Muse Spark, by introducing API availability for developers and businesses. Designed to power advanced reasoning, multimodal understanding, and agent-based workflows, the model is intended to support everything from customer service tools to content creation and productivity apps. Unlike earlier AI releases, Muse Spark is deeply integrated into Meta’s ecosystem and is expected to roll out across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Meta AI experiences. The API launch also gives developers an opportunity to build applications on the same technology that powers Meta’s latest AI assistant. As competition among AI providers intensifies, opening access to flagship models has become an important strategy for expanding developer ecosystems.

Character.AI Turns AI Chats Into Short-Form Entertainment

Character.AI is expanding beyond text conversations by introducing AI-generated microdramas designed for vertical video viewing. The new series transforms interactive AI characters into bite-sized scripted stories optimized for smartphones, reflecting the continued popularity of short-form content. Rather than simply chatting with virtual personalities, users can now watch them perform in serialized episodes that blend storytelling with generative AI. The initiative highlights how AI companies are increasingly exploring entertainment alongside traditional chatbot experiences. As audiences spend more time consuming vertical video, AI-powered storytelling is emerging as another frontier in digital media.

SpaceX Sets Another Record for Starlink Deployments

SpaceX is on pace to achieve its busiest year yet for Starlink satellite launches, continuing the rapid expansion of its global internet network. The company has significantly increased launch frequency, allowing thousands of additional satellites to reach orbit and improve coverage around the world. This aggressive deployment strategy strengthens Starlink’s position as the largest low-Earth orbit satellite internet provider while making it more difficult for competitors to catch up. Increased satellite density also helps improve network capacity and performance for existing customers. As demand for high-speed internet continues to grow in underserved regions, SpaceX is demonstrating just how quickly satellite infrastructure can scale.

Samsung Prepares for Its Next Wave of Foldables

Samsung is expected to showcase its newest foldable devices and wearable technology during its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event. Reports suggest the company will unveil updated Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip smartphones alongside a redesigned Galaxy Watch lineup featuring improved health tracking and AI-powered features. Samsung is also rumored to be introducing a wider foldable design, signaling continued experimentation with smartphone form factors. The announcements reflect Samsung’s commitment to pushing foldable technology further into the mainstream while strengthening its connected device ecosystem. With competition increasing across the premium smartphone market, hardware innovation remains one of the company’s biggest differentiators.

iFixit Builds a Toolkit for the Right-to-Repair Movement

Repair advocates have a new option with iFixit’s Megalodon Toolkit, a comprehensive repair kit designed for everything from smartphones and laptops to household appliances. The expanded toolkit includes a wider range of precision drivers, specialty bits, and repair tools aimed at helping consumers tackle increasingly complex fixes at home. The release aligns with the growing right-to-repair movement, which encourages manufacturers to make products easier to maintain instead of replacing them. As electronics become more expensive, many consumers are choosing to extend the lifespan of their devices through repair rather than purchasing new ones. The toolkit reflects a broader shift toward sustainability, self-service, and consumer ownership in technology.

July 9, 2026July 9, 2026

Weekend Events | July 10 – July 12

As July breezes on by, the time to celebrate the weekend has arrived. From beach fests to music, movies, and more, we have you covered on summer fun! Check out what’s happening in your neck of the woods July 10 through July 12.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | July 10 – July 12

Central Library Centennial Festival

When: July 11

Where: Downtown LA

What: Celebrate 100 years of the iconic Los Angeles Central Library during a free, family-friendly centennial celebration in Downtown L.A. The day features live performances, hands-on art and bookmaking workshops, exhibits, crafts, and special guests, along with the unveiling of the world’s largest pop-up book by artist Daniel González. Highlights also include performances by the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, The Linda Lindas, the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, and L.A. Taiko Ichiza, plus a conversation with Susan Orlean and, of course, birthday cake.

Los Angeles French Fry Festival

When: July 11

Where: Griffith Park

What: Calling all potato lovers! This fry-filled festival at the Autry Museum of the American West celebrates every style of French fry imaginable, from shoestring and curly fries to loaded fries, waffle fries, potato wedges, and even dessert-inspired creations. Hosted by Bucket Listers and Street Food Cinema, the event features popular vendors like Dave’s Hot Chicken, Marathon Burger, Proudly Serving, Mr. Charlie’s, and The Churro Man, along with eating contests, games, shopping, and plenty of sweet treats.

Music from the Films of Wes Anderson

When: July 10 – July 11

Where: The Hollywood Bowl | Hollywood

What: Step into the whimsical world of Wes Anderson during this special concert at the Hollywood Bowl, celebrating the unforgettable music of his films. Conducted by Thomas Wilkins and performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the evening features orchestral selections, beloved pop songs, and surprise guests inspired by favorites including The Royal Tenenbaums, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and more. It’s a must for film lovers and music fans alike.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | July 10 – July 12

Off the 405

When: Until August 22

Where: Westside

What: Spend a summer evening at the Getty Center during its popular Saturday Off the 405 concert series. Set against sweeping hilltop views, the free outdoor performances continue this season with sets from LEENALCHI, Horse Lords, and Laurel Halo. Arrive early to explore the Getty’s galleries, enjoy dinner with a view, and settle in for an unforgettable night of live music under the summer sky.

Mahjong Social with Mahjong Mistress

When: July 12

Where: Westwood

What: Spend a summer afternoon at the Hammer Museum with a unique blend of film, games, and community. The free event begins with a screening of Mahjong before the museum courtyard transforms into an interactive mahjong gathering hosted by Mahjong Mistress. Whether you’re learning the game for the first time or joining experienced players at the tables, this welcoming event offers a fun way to connect with fellow Angelenos while enjoying one of the city’s most popular social pastimes.

Santa Monica Block Fest

When: July 11

Where: Santa Monica

What: Celebrate the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the fifth annual Santa Monica Block Fest, where three blocks of the Third Street Promenade transform into a lively outdoor celebration. Watch the World Cup quarterfinals on big screens, enjoy live music and DJ sets throughout the evening, sip cocktails in the Entertainment Zone, and browse a night market featuring more than 20 local vendors, including Villa’s Tacos. With music, food, shopping, and soccer all in one place, it’s one of Santa Monica’s biggest summer parties.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | July 10 – July 12

Second Saturday Jazz

When: July 11

Where: Velvet Martini Lounge | 4349 Tujunga Avenue

What: Enjoy an afternoon of classic big band jazz as Angela O’Neill and the Outrageous8 celebrate 10 years of swing during this special Second Saturday Jazz performance. Featuring an all-star lineup of Los Angeles musicians, the concert showcases timeless jazz standards, lively arrangements, and birthday tributes to several celebrated performers and composers. Expect an energetic afternoon of live music, exceptional musicianship, and vintage jazz club charm, with a $35 food and beverage minimum required by the venue.

Summer Afternoon Skate

When: July 10

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Roll into an afternoon of family-friendly fun at Moonlight Rollerway. Open to skaters of all ages and skill levels, this daytime session invites families and friends to lace up their skates, cruise around the rink, and enjoy great music in one of Southern California’s most iconic roller skating venues. Whether you’re learning for the first time or showing off your best moves, it’s a classic outing everyone can enjoy.

Succulent Terrarium Workshop

When: July 12

Where: Tansy | 2120 West Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank

What: Get creative during this hands-on succulent terrarium workshop, where participants of all ages can design and build their own miniature indoor garden. Using succulents, stones, moss, sand, soil, and decorative accents, you’ll create a personalized living centerpiece while learning the basics of terrarium design and plant care. With all materials provided and step-by-step instructions included, it’s a fun and relaxing activity for beginners, families, and plant lovers alike.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | July 10 – July 12

Sunset Dinner and Tribute Bands

When: July 10

Where: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, 40 Presidential Dr, Simi Valley

What: Enjoy an unforgettable summer evening at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library during its popular Sunset Dinner Series. The July 10 event features Fantastic Diamond, a high-energy tribute to Neil Diamond, paired with dinner, live entertainment, and access to the library’s exhibits, including the America 250 exhibition and the iconic Air Force One Pavilion. It’s a memorable night of music, history, and nostalgia in one of Ventura County’s most unique settings.

Cinemalibu Outdoor Summer Movie – Kicking & Screaming

When: July 11

Where: Malibu Bluffs Park | 24250 CA-1, Malibu

What: Enjoy a family movie night under the stars at the City of Malibu’s CINEMALIBU summer film series at Malibu Bluffs Park. Before the July 11 screening of Kicking & Screaming, guests can enjoy food trucks, family activities, raffles, and special guests. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for a free outdoor movie experience as the sun sets over Malibu.

Hueneme Beach Festival

When: July 11 – July 12

Where: 550 E Surfside Dr, Port Hueneme

What: Celebrate summer at the annual Hueneme Beach Festival at Hueneme Beach Park. This free, family-friendly weekend event features live music across two stages, carnival rides, children’s activities, food and drinks, local vendors, a high school band competition, the Hueneme Beach Wrestling Tournament, and plenty of coastal fun. With free admission and parking, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic beach festival on the Ventura County coast.

July 8, 2026July 9, 2026

The Best New Restaurants in Los Angeles – July 2026 | L.A. Eat

Los Angeles dining is always in motion, and July brings another wave of openings worth adding to the calendar. From refined tasting menus and coastal Mexican seafood to Milan-inspired cocktails, Japanese charcoal cooking, and casual Valley favorites, the new restaurants in Los Angeles this month offer something for every kind of diner.

Whether you are planning a polished night out, a low-key brunch, or a group dinner with plenty to share, these standout spots capture the range and energy that keep LA’s restaurant scene endlessly exciting.

Lielle

Location: 9575 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90035, United States

Chef Marcus Jernmark brings a seasonal California focus to Lielle, a 42-seat restaurant in Pico-Robertson. The four-course menu changes with the market, though the 36-hour proofed bread made with Rouge de Bordeaux wheat is already becoming a signature. Expect elegant dishes like aged squab, barbecued abalone with seaweed rice, and maitake mushroom sauce.

Picala

Location: 3321 South La Cienega Boulevard, STE G, Los Angeles, California 90016, United States

Picala marks Acme Hospitality’s Los Angeles debut with a warm West Adams restaurant shaped by California ingredients and Spanish influence. The menu includes pan con tomate, tortilla Española, shaved asparagus salad, aged prime rib-eye, and paella with chicken, chorizo, peppers, and aioli. It is one of the new restaurants in Los Angeles that feels especially suited for group dining.

Jacaranda

Location: 6623 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90038, United States

Jacaranda brings chef Daniel Patterson’s fine dining experience into a more intimate 30-seat setting. The 10-course tasting menu leans heavily into vegetables and California sourcing, with dishes built around ingredients like artichoke flower, soft tofu, fresh seaweed, and Kauai prawns. Dessert comes from pastry chef Matt Tinder, with fruit-forward finishes that feel refined but not overly fussy.

San Damián

Location: 1025 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, California 90291, United States

San Damián brings seafood-focused modern Mexican cooking to Venice from Enrique Olvera’s Casamata group. Chef Chuy Cervantes’s menu highlights mariscos such as Kumamoto oysters, local rockfish ceviche, Santa Barbara sea urchin, and Dungeness crab tostadas. With kanpachi al pastor, pescado asado, cocktails, wine, and beer, the restaurant feels right at home on Abbot Kinney.

Pizzeria Sei

Location: 10700 Tabor St, Los Angeles, California 90034

Pizzeria Sei has expanded from its tiny Pico-Robertson storefront into a larger Palms location with a full sit-down dining room. The menu features Neapolitan pizzas, fried montanara, and crispy Roman-style scrocchiarella. Starters like vodka sauce supplì, chicken croquettes, gem salad, and broccolini with bagna cauda round out the experience.

Bad Roman

Location: 267 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90210, United States

New York’s bold Italian favorite Bad Roman has arrived in Beverly Hills. The maximalist menu includes roasted garlic babka, seafood towers, spicy Caesar salad, house-made pastas, branzino, chicken al limone, and caviar gnocchi. With cheeky design details and a playful sense of excess, it brings serious personality to the list of new restaurants in Los Angeles.

Pawn Shop

Location: 5901 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90038, United States

Pawn Shop turns a former collateral loan space into a sleek, high-energy sports bar. The menu balances casual favorites like wings and fries with upscale touches such as caviar service, kanpachi crudo, and a 40-ounce dry-aged tomahawk. Private suites make it a strong pick for groups who want dinner, drinks, and a game-day atmosphere.

Bar di Bello

Location: 3300 West Sunset Boulevard, #109-110, Los Angeles, California 90026, United States

Bar di Bello brings Milan-inspired style to Silver Lake’s Sunset Row. Cocktails like the Greenhouse Martini and Prima Donna pair with Italian and California wines, trofie alla Genovese, and a chicken cutlet finished with shallots, guanciale, and capers. It is sleek, polished, and ideal for a stylish neighborhood night out.

Bengara

Location: 803 Traction Avenue, STE 140, Los Angeles, California 90013, United States

Bengara introduces Japanese binchotan charcoal cooking to the Arts District. The menu centers on slow, low-heat genshiyaki-style preparations, with dishes such as teuchi citrus soba, grilled rice skewers with uni, pork shoulder with fermented garlic, and kinako ice cream. It is one of the more distinctive new restaurants in Los Angeles for diners looking for smoke, subtlety, and craft.

Bar Betsy

Location: 871 East Mariposa Street, Altadena, California 91001, United States

Bar Betsy is an all-day cafe and wine bar from Tyler Wells, located next to his live-fire restaurant Betsy. Mornings bring coffee, puff pastries, and brioche breads, while the daytime menu moves into farmers market-inspired fare like crudo and focaccia sandwiches. It is easygoing, charming, and built for repeat visits.

Highly Likely Studio City

Location: 12401 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, California 91604, United States

Highly Likely has brought its laid-back all-day cafe energy to Studio City. Breakfast runs until 4 p.m. with green chilaquiles and breakfast burritos, while lunch includes snapper tostadas, burgers, chicken Caesar wraps, and steak frites au poivre. The warm wood, tile, and soft lighting give the Valley location an easy neighborhood appeal.

Cheesesteaks by Matū

Location: 4799 Commons Way, Suite I, Calabasas

Set to open July 14 at The Commons in Calabasas, Cheesesteaks by Matū brings a premium take on the Philly cheesesteak to a casual walk-up setting. The sandwich features 100% grass-fed First Light Farms Wagyu, a custom-seeded bun, Cooper Sharp cheese, grilled onions, and a long hot pepper. Served with house-made chips, it is a strong new option for Calabasas diners.

From Beverly Hills glamour to Altadena wine bars and Arts District fire cooking, the new restaurants in Los Angeles for July 2026 show just how wide the city’s dining scene can be. This month, every neighborhood seems to have a fresh reason to go out.

July 7, 2026July 9, 2026

Your Ultimate Summer Guide to Los Angeles Outdoor Movies | Out & About

One of the greatest benefits of laying down roots in SoCal is our unbeatable Mediterranean climate, which truly shines during the summer months. What better way to take advantage of our balmy, breezy summer nights than by experiencing the magic of Los Angeles outdoor movies?

From entertaining family to planning an unforgettable evening under the stars, the local cinema scene has something for everyone. This season’s lineup of Los Angeles outdoor movies is packed with nostalgic classics, modern blockbusters, and unique community viewing experiences that span from downtown rooftops to the scenic coast.

If you are planning your late-summer calendar, here is a curated look at the best spots and upcoming screenings.

Iconic City Screenings: Hollywood & Downtown LA

When it comes to Los Angeles outdoor movies, certain venues have achieved legendary status. These are the spots that offer a quintessential LA vibe, combining historic backdrops with cinematic masterpieces.

Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery: This open-air tradition invites moviegoers to pack an elegant picnic, spread out a blanket on the lawn, and enjoy the show alongside an energetic crowd. The late-summer lineup features fantastic options, including Edward Scissorhands on July 25, Practical Magic on August 1, and the fantasy classic Labyrinth on August 29.

Rooftop Cinema Club at LEVEL DTLA: For a highly sophisticated, urban experience, head to Downtown LA. Instead of sitting on the grass, you are treated to comfortable deck chairs, personal wireless headphones, and stunning skyline views. Catch mind-bending favorites like Interstellar on July 26, or a double feature of Inception and Friday on July 31.

Coastal Vibes: Beach & Marina Screenings

There is nothing quite like feeling the cool ocean breeze while watching a favorite film. Southern California’s coastal communities offer some of the most relaxed and scenic backdrops for cinema lovers.

Moonlight Movies on the Beach (Granada Beach): Grab your beach chairs and head down to Long Beach for an incredible series right on the sand. Highlights later this season include the sports classic A League of Their Own on August 4 and a lively Grease sing-along on August 18.
Beach Movie Nights (Dockweiler Youth Center): Perfect for families, this series sits right on the edge of Playa del Rey. Mark your calendar for a thrilling screening of Anaconda on July 24. In addition, you can check out the animated classic The Princess and the Frog on August 7.

Marina Movie Nights (Burton Chace Park): Located in beautiful Marina del Rey, this venue allows you to watch films right by the water. Don’t miss Scott Pilgrim vs. the World on August 22 or Sonic the Hedgehog 3 on August 29.

The San Fernando Valley & Ventura County Suburbs

You do not have to head into the city center or down to the coast to find fantastic cinematic experiences. The Valley and surrounding northern suburbs boast exceptional, family-friendly summer screenings.

Street Food Cinema at The Autry: Located in Griffith Park (right on the edge of Studio City and North Hollywood), this event seamlessly blends local food trucks, live music, and outdoor cinema. Late-summer highlights include Night at the Museum on July 25. Additionally, Pixar’s Cars will play on August 1, and Wet Hot American Summer on August 8.
Sherman Oaks & Local Parks: Neighborhood councils throughout Sherman Oaks and Van Nuys frequently host free “Movies in the Park” events at local community centers, perfect for a low-key Friday night with the kids.

Thousand Oaks & Ventura County: Further north, communities like Thousand Oaks host free Friday evening movies at local community parks, complete with pre-show activities. For a picturesque coastal drive, Ventura Harbor Village features Summer Outdoor Movie Nights on the main lawn. Here you can watch a film as the sun sets over the harbor boats.

Legendary Film Concerts at the Hollywood Bowl

No ultimate guide to Los Angeles outdoor movies would be complete without mentioning the world-famous Hollywood Bowl. For a truly elevated experience, the L.A. Phil hosts spectacular film nights where the movie scores are performed live by a world-class orchestra.

Top Gun: Maverick in Concert: Experience the high-flying adrenaline of this modern blockbuster with a live orchestral score on August 15.
Maestro of the Movies: From September 4 through September 6, celebrate the legendary John Williams with a spectacular tribute concert featuring his most iconic cinematic scores.
The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long: A beloved end-of-summer tradition returning on September 26.

Invest in the Ultimate SoCal Lifestyle

Owning a home in Southern California means investing in a lifestyle filled with culture, close-knit communities, and gorgeous year-round weather. Enjoying the vibrant scene of Los Angeles outdoor movies is just one of the many ways to maximize your summer. Experience what makes this region so spectacular!

July 6, 2026

Economic Update | Week Ending July 4, 2026

This week’s economic news showed a labor market that is cooling but not collapsing. Inflation remains sticky, with PCE up 4.1% year-over-year and core PCE at 3.4%, which helps explain why bond yields and mortgage rates have increased. The good news for real estate is that oil has dropped back to about $69-$72 a barrel, and the 30-year fixed mortgage rate eased slightly to 6.43%.

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 2, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.43%, down from 6.49% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.79%, down from 5.84% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Job creation slowed in June – The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported that 57,000 new jobs were created in June, down from 172,000 new jobs in May. The unemployment rate ticked down to 4.2% from 4.3%, in March, April, and May. The labor force participation rate (The percentage of people age 16 or older working or looking for work) dropped to 61.5%, its lowest reading since March 2021. Average hourly wages increased 3.5% from one year ago, which remains below the most recent inflation reading of 4.2%.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 52,900.07, up 2% from 51,876.11 last week. It is up 10.1% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,483.24, up 1.8% from 7,354.02 last week. The S&P is up 9.3% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 25,832.67, up 2.1% from 25,297.62 last week. It is up 11.1% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.

U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.49%, up from 4.38% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.98%, up from 4.87% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Wishing you a happy Independence Day as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday!

Have a great weekend!

July 6, 2026July 9, 2026

Trending Exterior Paint Colors Defining SoCal Homes | Home Tips

When it comes to selling a home in Southern California, first impressions are everything. The bright, relentless SoCal sun acts as a natural spotlight on your property’s exterior, meaning your choice of paint can either elevate your home’s equity or leave it looking dated.

According to a new 2026 Curb Appeal Report published by Thumbtack and shared by Martha Stewart Living, there is a massive nationwide shift in how homeowners approach their outdoor spaces.

Stark, cold minimalism is officially out. Instead, property owners are using warmer, more expressive palettes to inject personality and create a welcoming atmosphere.

For local buyers and sellers, alignment with these trending exterior paint colors is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to maximize a property’s market value. Here is how to apply the latest national color insights to the unique architectural landscape of Southern California.

Say Goodbye to Cold Grays and Stark White

For the last several years, Southern California neighborhoods have been dominated by the modern farmhouse look: bright, blinding white stucco paired with jet-black trim. However, design experts note that homeowners are rapidly moving away from these high-contrast, stark combinations.

Instead, the trending exterior paint colors for home bodies are warm, creamy neutrals. Shades like Sherwin-Williams’ Greek Villa (a soft off-white with creamy undertones) and Natural Linen (a warm beige) are taking over. In Southern California, these tones are a dream for Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, and Mid-Century Modern homes. Warm off-whites absorb the intense local sunlight beautifully without causing the harsh glare that stark whites produce, giving your property an instantly luxurious, inviting feel.

Embrace Earthy, Restorative Accents

Buyers in today’s real estate market are looking for homes that feel like personal sanctuaries. The report reveals that nearly a third of homeowners are using color to establish a specific restorative mood.

To achieve this vibe, look to earthy, nature-inspired tones for your trim, front doors, and shutter accents. Muted green-grays like Retreat and tranquil blue-greens like Rainwashed are highly favored choices. These shades coordinate flawlessly with SoCal’s native landscaping—clashing less with drought-tolerant succulents, olive trees, and sage, and blending seamlessly into coastal or hillside environments.

Bring on the Drama with Sophisticated Contrast

If you want your home to stand out in a competitive market, don’t be afraid of rich, moody accents. The 2026 data highlights a strong preference for sophisticated, deep colors on focal points like front doors or architectural alcoves.

Deep charcoal blacks like Iron Ore and rich navy blues like Naval offer a grounding effect without feeling as harsh as standard black. For a truly unique touch, consider mid-tone clay neutrals like Redend Point. Additionally, deep reds like Sommelier pay a beautiful homage to classic California terracotta. Likewise, both catch the eye of design-conscious buyers.

The Bottom Line for Sellers and Buyers

For potential sellers, updating your property with trending exterior paint colors is a strategic investment that directly translates to shorter days on the market and higher offers. For buyers, looking out for these warm, intentional color choices can lead you to homes designed with modern longevity in mind.

July 2, 2026July 2, 2026

Mortgage Rate Update | July 2, 2026

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.43%, down from 6.49% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.79%, down from 5.84% last week.

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

July 2, 2026July 8, 2026

From a New Fujifilm Digital Cam to Amazon’s Starlink Rival and More! | Tech News

Dive into the top headlines of the week happening across the web in the world of media and technology. From a new Fujifilm Digital Cam to Amazon’s Starlink Rival and more, this week is filled with major news you want to know about!

Amazon Reaches a Major Milestone for Its Starlink Rival

Competition in satellite internet is accelerating as Amazon reaches an important turning point in its low-Earth orbit network ambitions. The company has now deployed enough satellites to begin offering continuous service across its initial coverage areas, putting Amazon Leo on track for a commercial launch later this year. Early customers can expect a rollout similar to Starlink’s first beta program, with speeds and reliability improving as additional satellites are added to the constellation. Although Amazon still has thousands of satellites left to launch before completing its planned network, this milestone represents meaningful progress toward challenging SpaceX’s dominance. As satellite internet continues to expand, increased competition could ultimately deliver broader coverage, faster innovation, and more affordable connectivity for consumers.

Apple Looks Ahead to the Next Generation of Macs and iPads

A new report suggests Apple is already laying the groundwork for its next wave of MacBook Pro and iPad Pro hardware. According to the latest roadmap, an entry-level MacBook Pro redesign is expected in 2027, while refreshed iPad Pro models will receive internal performance upgrades before then. In the meantime, Apple is reportedly preparing an M6-powered MacBook Pro that will largely retain the current industrial design. The staggered release schedule reflects Apple’s strategy of balancing steady annual improvements with larger design overhauls every few product cycles. For users considering an upgrade, the reports suggest Apple’s biggest hardware changes are still waiting just beyond the horizon.

Microsoft Continues the Shift From Physical Games to Digital Libraries

Gaming continues moving toward a digital-first future as Microsoft explores new ways to bridge physical game collections with modern Xbox libraries. The company is reportedly developing features that recognize disc ownership while making it easier for players to access their purchases across consoles and accounts. Although physical games are not disappearing overnight, Microsoft’s long-term vision clearly centers on digital downloads, cloud gaming, and subscription services. The approach aims to preserve the value of existing collections while making ownership feel more seamless in an increasingly connected ecosystem. As gaming habits evolve, shelves of game cases are gradually giving way to libraries stored in the cloud.

Fujifilm Celebrates Film Photography With a Black-and-White QuickSnap

Photography enthusiasts have another reason to embrace analog creativity with Fujifilm’s latest limited-edition camera release. The new Fujifilm QuickSnap Active Black & White brings monochrome film photography back into the spotlight, encouraging users to focus on composition rather than digital editing. Unlike smartphone cameras that rely heavily on computational photography, Fujifilm continues to celebrate the slower, more intentional process that has made film photography popular once again. The release reflects Fujifilm’s ongoing commitment to preserving analog photography while introducing younger generations to the unique aesthetic only film can produce. As interest in vintage cameras continues to grow, Fujifilm is proving that classic photography still has a meaningful place alongside today’s digital technology.

Google NotebookLM Makes AI Research Easier to Digest

Learning with AI is becoming more visual as Google introduces AI Clips to NotebookLM. The new feature automatically transforms lengthy documents and research materials into short, digestible video summaries that make complex information easier to understand. Rather than reading through dozens of pages, users can quickly review key insights presented in a more engaging format. The update strengthens NotebookLM’s position as an AI-powered research assistant for students, educators, business professionals, and content creators alike. As generative AI continues to evolve, companies are placing greater emphasis on helping users absorb information faster, not simply produce more of it.

WhatsApp Prepares to Replace Phone Numbers With Usernames

Privacy is taking center stage with WhatsApp’s long-awaited move toward usernames. The upcoming feature will allow users to connect without sharing their personal phone numbers, bringing the messaging platform closer to competitors like Telegram and Signal. In addition to improving privacy, usernames should make it easier to find and communicate with friends, creators, and businesses. Reports indicate that users will have an opportunity to reserve unique usernames before the wider rollout begins. As messaging apps continue evolving, giving users greater control over their identity has become just as important as adding new communication features.