Author: Rodeo Realty Media Team

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Economic Update | Month Ending November 30, 2024

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November marked the best month of the year for stock markets. Ending the month at all-time highs, stock markets began to surge when President Trump won the election, as Investors expect easing regulations and lower corporate tax rates. At the same time bond yields and mortgage rates increased as fears of tariffs and deportations could fuel inflation; however, bond yields and mortgage rates dropped in the last week of the month. Inflation gauges did rise slightly in October. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer process increased 2.6% year-over-year in October, up from a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, increased 3.3% year-over-year, unchanged from September’s annual increase. The Producer Price Index (PPI) also increased in October. It measures wholesale prices which increased 2.4% year-over-year in October, its highest level in 4 months, and up from a 1.9% year-over-year increase in September. The Core PPI level came in at a 3.5% year-over-year increase in October, up from a 3.3% increase in September. The Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) showed a 12-month inflation rate of 2.3%, up from a 2.1% annual rate in September. Core PCE increased 2.8% year-over-year. These increases were in line with analysts’ expectations as increased retail sales, consumer confidence, and other data pointed to the economy picking up.

 

The chart below shows the CPI rate since 2021. Even though it moved up last month, it’s still much lower than it has been over the past two years.

 

Stock Markets -The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 44,910.65, up 7.5% from 41,763.46, on October 30, 2024. It is up 19.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 6,032.38, up 5.7% from 5,705.45 last month. It is up 26.5% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 19,218.17, up 6.3% from 18,085.15 last month. It is up 28% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 4.18%, down from 4.28% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.36%, down from 4.47% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Mortgage rates jumped in October on fears of inflation picking up in future months based on stronger economic reports. 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 November 27, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, up from 6.72% at the end of September. The 15-year fixed was 6.10%, up from 5.99% last month.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. These are October’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales October 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in October, up 2.9% from an annualized rate of 3.85 million units last October. That marked the first year-over-year increase in sales in 3 years. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in October was $407,200, up 4% from $391,600 one year ago. There was a 4.2-month supply of homes for sale in October, up from a 3.6-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 27% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

October California existing-home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 264,870 on an annualized rate in October, up 4.7% from 253,010 homes on an annualized rate in September, and up 5.8% from a revised 241,910 homes sold on an annualized basis last October. The statewide median price paid for a home in October was $888,740, up 2.4% from $868,150 in September, and up 5.8% from $839.990 one year ago. There was a 3.1- month supply of homes for sale in October, down from a 3.6-month supply of homes for sale in September, but up from a 2.7-month supply in October 2023.

The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California.

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Economic Update | Week Ending November 30, 2024

November marked the best month of the year for stock markets. Ending the month at all-time highs, stock markets began to surge when President Trump won the election, as Investors expect easing regulations and lower corporate tax rates. At the same time bond yields and mortgage rates increased as fears of tariffs and deportations could fuel inflation; however, bond yields and mortgage rates dropped in the last week of the month. Inflation gauges did rise slightly in October. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer process increased 2.6% year-over-year in October, up from a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, increased 3.3% year-over-year, unchanged from September’s annual increase. The Producer Price Index (PPI) also increased in October. It measures wholesale prices which increased 2.4% year-over-year in October, its highest level in 4 months, and up from a 1.9% year-over-year increase in September. The Core PPI level came in at a 3.5% year-over-year increase in October, up from a 3.3% increase in September. The Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) showed a 12-month inflation rate of 2.3%, up from a 2.1% annual rate in September. Core PCE increased 2.8% year-over-year. These increases were in line with analysts’ expectations as increased retail sales, consumer confidence, and other data pointed to the economy picking up.

Stock markets -The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 44,910.65, up 1.4% from 44,296.51 last week. It is up 19.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6.032.38, up 1.1% from 5,969.34 last week. The S&P is up 26.5% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,218.17, up 1.1% from 19,003.65 last week. It is up 28% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.18%, down from 4.41% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.36%, down from 4.60% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

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 November 21st, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.84%, up from 6.78% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.02%, up from 5.99% last week.

Economic update for the month ending November 30, 2024

The chart below shows the CPI rate since 2021. Even though it moved up last month, it’s still much lower than it has been over the past two years.

Stock Markets -The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 44,910.65, up 7.5% from 41,763.46, on October 30, 2024. It is up 19.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 6,032.38, up 5.7% from 5,705.45 last month. It is up 26.5% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 19,218.17, up 6.3% from 18,085.15 last month. It is up 28% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 4.18%, down from 4.28% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.36%, down from 4.47% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Mortgage rates jumped in October on fears of inflation picking up in future months based on stronger economic reports. 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 November 27, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, up from 6.72% at the end of September. The 15-year fixed was 6.10%, up from 5.99% last month.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. These are October’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales October 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in October, up 2.9% from an annualized rate of 3.85 million units last October. That marked the first year-over-year increase in sales in 3 years. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in October was $407,200, up 4% from $391,600 one year ago. There was a 4.2-month supply of homes for sale in October, up from a 3.6-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 27% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

October California existing-home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 264,870 on an annualized rate in October, up 4.7% from 253,010 homes on an annualized rate in September, and up 5.8% from a revised 241,910 homes sold on an annualized basis last October. The statewide median price paid for a home in October was $888,740, up 2.4% from $868,150 in September, and up 5.8% from $839.990 one year ago. There was a 3.1- month supply of homes for sale in October, down from a 3.6-month supply of homes for sale in September, but up from a 2.7-month supply in October 2023.

The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California.

Have a great weekend!

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Elegant Holiday Decor Ideas | Home Tips

In Southern California, where the holidays meet sunshine and coastal charm, your holiday decor can embrace a unique blend of seasonal elegance and regional style. Transforming your home into a festive retreat is one of the joys of the holiday season. From palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights to sophisticated indoor accents, here’s how to elevate your holiday atmosphere this December.

1. Palm Trees with a Festive Twist

Nothing says “SoCal holidays” quite like illuminated palm trees. Swap the traditional fir trees for your backyard palms by wrapping their trunks with warm, white LED lights or multicolor strands for a playful look. Consider adding metallic garlands or oversized ornaments to the bases of smaller potted palms for a touch of whimsy. This effortless holiday decor idea brings festive cheer to your outdoor spaces.

2. Coastal Holiday Accents

Incorporate coastal elements to create a holiday decor look that feels at home in Southern California. Adorn your tablescapes with sea glass ornaments, driftwood centerpieces, or nautical-inspired linens. Add pops of seasonal colors, such as deep blue and gold, to evoke the ocean’s hues alongside holiday warmth. Shells and starfish with a light dusting of glitter make for chic tree ornaments or mantel decorations.

3. Modern and Minimalist Interior Touches

For a luxurious yet understated holiday decor vibe, embrace a modern aesthetic. Opt for neutral tones like champagne, ivory, and blush pink accented with metallics to create a sleek and elegant look. Replace heavy garlands with eucalyptus or olive branches for a lighter, fresher take on greenery. Consider placing a statement piece, like a sculptural holiday tree or an oversized ornament display, to anchor your room.

4. Seasonal Scent and Lighting

Nothing completes a festive ambiance like the perfect scent and lighting. Use natural candles or diffusers with holiday-inspired fragrances, such as cinnamon, cedarwood, or vanilla. For lighting, blend soft fairy lights with votive candles to cast a warm and inviting glow throughout your home. Layer these with dimmable LED lights to create various moods, from cozy evenings to lively gatherings.

5. Outdoor Living Spaces for Holiday Gatherings

Southern California’s mild winters mean outdoor entertaining is always an option. Dress up your patio or balcony with plush, weather-resistant throws, festive cushions, and heaters for added comfort. Hang string lights or lanterns to create a magical setting, and set up a holiday-themed bar cart with spiced cocktails or hot cocoa to keep your guests feeling festive.

Elevate Your Holidays, Southern California Style!

Combining elegance with a touch of coastal flair allows you to create a holiday setting that feels both festive and true to Southern California’s unique charm. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet family moments, these décor ideas will make your home sparkle with seasonal joy.

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From Porsche to Sony and More! | Tech News

Check out the latest tech news from across the World Wide Web. We have you covered with what’s happening from Porsche to Sony and more! Read on for a round-up of tech and media headlines you need to know.

New Startup Aims to Build Operating System for AI Agents

A new startup, /dev/agents, founded by former Android leaders, is developing an operating system tailored for AI agents. The company, led by Hugo Barra (former Google VP of Android) and David Singleton (ex-Google VP of Android engineering), aims to simplify the creation of autonomous digital assistants that can perform tasks and make decisions with minimal human input. The team, which also includes experienced tech figures like Ficus Kirkpatrick and Nicholas Jitkoff, is focusing on creating a cloud-based platform with new user interfaces, privacy models, and developer tools to accelerate AI agent development. The goal is to create an “Android-like moment” for the AI agent industry.

FCC Approves SpaceX-T-Mobile Satellite Partnership for Direct-to-Phone Service

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved SpaceX’s Starlink satellites to provide T-Mobile customers with direct-to-phone service, marking the first collaboration between a satellite operator and wireless carrier for supplemental cell coverage from space. This move is seen as a step toward improving connectivity, especially in remote areas, with potential benefits for 911 access and technological innovation. The partnership, announced in 2022, aims to eliminate cellular dead zones across the U.S. and follows SpaceX’s temporary clearance in October to support areas affected by Hurricane Helene. However, the FCC has yet to decide on issues like increased satellite power for features such as voice and video calls, with concerns from competitors AT&T and Verizon about interference. The service’s full rollout, including voice and data, is expected by 2025.

Porsche Delays Full EV Shift, Focuses on Combustion Engines Amid Slowdown

Porsche is putting the brakes on its full transition to electric vehicles (EVs) due to slower-than-expected sales, especially in the U.S. and China. The automaker’s CFO, Lutz Meschke, confirmed that Porsche will continue producing internal combustion engine models for the foreseeable future, noting a strong preference for gas-powered engines in the luxury segment. While Porsche had planned to expand its EV lineup, including the Cayenne and 718, Meschke revealed the company is now considering hybrid or combustion versions for these models. Porsche had previously set a goal to have 80% of its sales come from electric vehicles by 2030 but is adjusting its strategy in response to market realities.

Spotify Integrates with Google Gemini for AI Music Search

Spotify now supports Google’s Gemini Extensions, allowing users to search and play music using natural language through the generative AI assistant. Rolling out to compatible Android devices, Gemini can play songs, albums, artists, playlists, or music for specific activities, though it cannot yet create playlists or radio stations. Users must link their Spotify and Google accounts, enable Gemini Apps Activity, and specify Spotify if another music service is linked. Currently, the feature only works in English and is unavailable on Google Messages, Gemini’s web app, or iOS. Spotify follows WhatsApp as the second non-Google app to integrate Gemini.

Mercedes-Benz Brings Vehicle Control to Apple Watch

Mercedes-Benz has launched an Apple Watch app. The app allows users to control and monitor their vehicles directly from their wrists. The app is compatible with watchOS 9 or later. Linked to the Mercedes-Benz mobile app on an iPhone, the app lets owners check fuel or charge levels. In addition, the app lets users lock and unlock doors and locate their parked vehicle with navigation or a virtual compass. The features vary by model and equipment and are available for 2019 or newer Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The company joins other automakers like Honda, Ford, and Volvo in offering watchOS support.

Sony Developing New Handheld Console for PS5 Games

Sony is reportedly working on a new handheld gaming console that will let users play PlayStation 5 games natively. Of course, Sony is aiming to compete with Nintendo and Microsoft in the portable gaming market. Still in early development, the device would expand on Sony’s existing PlayStation Portal. Likewise, it would stream PS5 games via Wi-Fi. Unlike its predecessor, the new console would allow offline play, making Sony’s games more accessible. This move comes as Nintendo prepares a successor to the Switch, and Microsoft explores its own handheld prototype. In addition, competition in the category grows with devices like Valve’s Steam Deck and Asus’s ROG Ally.

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Weekend Events | November 29 – December 1

It’s Thanksgiving weekend and there is no better time to check out fall happenings. Don’t miss all the fun in your neighborhood! Check out all the local activities happening November 29 through December 1.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 29 – December 1

L.A. Zoo Lights

When: Until January 5

Where: L.A. Zoo | Griffith Park

What: The L.A. Zoo will remain open after dark most nights through January, offering a magical take on its holiday light tradition. This year’s “Animals Aglow” edition features enchanting oversized animal-shaped lanterns, creating a vibrant and charming trail that celebrates the zoo’s diverse wildlife.

Hollywood Christmas Parade

When: December 1

Where: Hollywood Blvd

What: The Hollywood Christmas Parade is pure L.A. kitsch, as iconic as an Angelyne billboard on Sunset Boulevard. Celebrating over nine decades of holiday cheer, the parade showcases a dazzling lineup of floats, balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, and celebrity appearances. The festive U-shaped route kicks off at Hollywood and Orange, winding its way to Sunset and Orange. Reserved grandstand seating is available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting Toys for Tots, while free curbside spots offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy the spectacle.

L.A. Kings Holiday Ice

When: Until January 10

Where: DTLA

What: The annual L.A. Kings ice skating rink is back at L.A. Live, bringing festive fun to the heart of the city. Glide around the stunning Christmas tree at the center of the outdoor rink while enjoying an LED holiday light show on the massive screens surrounding the plaza. With four nightly skating sessions to choose from, it’s a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit. Tickets, which include skate rentals, are available exclusively on-site and cannot be purchased online.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 29 – December 1

Winter Fest OC

When: November 22 – January 5

Where: Santa Monica

What: Celebrate a decade of holiday magic at this Christmas-themed event in Costa Mesa, transforming Orange County into a dazzling winter wonderland. Stroll through the enchanting North Pole walk-through, enjoy snow play and ice tubing, and capture festive memories with picture-perfect photo ops. This year, a brand-new holiday light show featuring over 2 million twinkling lights will take center stage. For an elevated experience, indulge in the expanded carnival, glide across the ice skating rink, or relax in VIP Arctic cabanas. Try your hand at “Polar Putt Putt” golf or warm up in cozy fireside igloos. Seasonal treats and hot cocoa will ensure you stay cozy while soaking in the holiday cheer.

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: Until August 2025

Where: The Skirball Museum | Westside

What: Explore over 50 garments from Diane von Furstenberg, including her iconic wrap dress, in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball. The show also highlights her philanthropic work and the impact of her upbringing as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, alongside artwork and fabric swatches.

Ice at Santa Monica

When: Until January 20

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Just a few blocks from the beach, Ice in downtown Santa Monica brings a touch of winter to this coastal city. The 8,000-square-foot outdoor rink is open daily from November to mid-January at Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue, a short walk from the E Line. Tickets are $24 for an hour, including skate rentals, and options for private parties and cabanas are available for a more exclusive experience. Enjoy treats for sale and special themed nights throughout the season.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 29 – December 1

Holidays on the Hill

When: Until January 5

Where: Universal City

What: Nestled at the Hilton near Universal Studios Hollywood, this ice skating rink offers stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. Families can enjoy Santa’s Workshop and face painting, while couples can indulge in the “date & skate” package with tickets and themed cocktails from the Jingle Bell Tavern. Don’t miss “Wicked Wednesdays” starting December 4, featuring green lighting and tracks from the musical, or the free skating session on November 30 from 6–8 p.m., with performances by a Wicked cast member and the Los Angeles Ice Theater.

Friendsgiving Tour

When: Until November 30

Where: Burbank

What: Celebrate Friendsgiving like Rachel, Ross, and the rest of the crew with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood’s special 30th-anniversary experience. This seasonal offering includes a 90-minute guided tour of iconic *Friends* sets, authentic costumes, and behind-the-scenes trivia, plus a Thanksgiving feast by the show’s famous fountain. Don’t miss your chance to snag a photo on the Central Perk couch!

Blended Worlds: Experiments In Interplanetary Imagination

When: Until January 4, 2025

Where: Glendale

What: In this collaborative exhibition in Glendale, artists, and JPL scientists unite as 11 creatives across various mediums showcase their interpretations of how nature and the night sky spark wonder within us.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 29 – December 1

Holiday Road

When: Until December 28

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Explore the enchanting grounds of King Gillette Ranch during Holiday Road, a nearly mile-long illuminated walking trail. From the creators of Nights of the Jack, this festive event features thousands of twinkling lights, a charming Christmas village, grand holiday displays, and glowing archways. Spot Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy bites from food trucks and sips from a holiday bar. Tickets start at $25 before fees, with prices varying by date and time.

Wild Lights at The Teaching Zoo

When: Until December 23

Where: Moorpark College

What: The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College sparkles this holiday season with the “Wild Lights” event. Enjoy a self-guided 45-minute walk through the zoo, featuring dazzling lights, interactive experiences, photo opportunities, and a festive, magical atmosphere.

74th Annual Santa Paula Christmas Parade

When: November 30

Where: Main Street from Seventh St to Eleventh St. | Santa Paula

What: Get ready for a night of holiday magic at the 74th Annual Santa Paula Christmas Parade on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 6:30 PM! Enjoy a festive parade filled with marching bands, twinkling floats, cheerful toy soldiers, classic cars, dazzling equestrians, local community groups, and of course—Santa Claus himself! It’s an unforgettable celebration for the whole family!

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Staycation in Big Bear | Out & About

Change up your weather this season with a festive staycation to Big Bear! This magical mountain escape offers the perfect opportunity for an icy holiday break, whatever you’re looking for – skiing down slopes or simply taking time away from everyday life. Learn more about how you can make the most of our snow retreat in our exclusive guide to visiting Big Bear.

Stay Awhile

Just 100 miles away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles lies a rugged yet enchanting escape. Big Bear offers spectacular winter skiing and summer lake pleasure for those who seek to unwind in an idyllic setting. For luxury seekers looking to visit this scenic town along its namesake lake, there are two elite stay options we can highly recommend – perfect for when you want nothing but the best!

  • Bluegreen The Club At Big Bear Village – Escape to The Bluegreen The Club, a luxury rustic resort set in the majestic San Bernardino Mountains. Enjoy all that nature has to offer while relaxing in one of our suites! Choose between two-bedrooms or luxurious Presidential level three and four bedrooms – each featuring a designer kitchen and baths, fireplaces, and jacuzzis for your relaxation pleasure.

  • Gold Mountain Manor -Take a journey back to 1928 and experience the nostalgia of Gold Mountain Manor. Nestled on the picturesque north shore of Big Bear City, this Adirondack-style log mansion was lovingly restored by movie investor Alexander Buchanan Barret and features unique touches like stone fireplaces, jacuzzis, and a wrap-around veranda. Let your imagination go wild in this charming retreat!

Dine and Sip

While in town, you will find plenty of fine dining and places to sip and relax. Here are our favorites.

The Pines Lakefront

Experience the unique beauty of The Pines, a 1920s architectural marvel situated almost with an idyllic view of rolling hills and shimmering waters. Delight in their delectable menu and select from over 200 remarkable wines housed within their world-renowned wine cellar.

Himalayan Restaurant

Discover a world of exotic flavors at the Himalayan in Lake Village, California. Our celebrated restaurant specializes in fine Indian and Nepalese cuisine crafted with only the freshest ingredients, herbs, and spices. Come experience one-of-a-kind culinary greatness!

Barrel 33 

Visit Barrel 33 in Lake Village for a sophisticated evening of sipping fine wines; beer, cider, and hard seltzer are also available. Experience an inviting atmosphere with superior service from the family-run bistro.

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company 

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company is the perfect spot to indulge. Enjoy unique microbrews, classic cocktails with a twist, and delicious menu items. With craft breweries on the rise, this local favorite stands out among them all!

To Do, Shop, and See

Big Bear Mountain is a year-round destination for outdoor and leisure activities! In winter, grab your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes. Enjoy something warmer? Go golfing in the summertime, explore beautiful hiking trails or simply relax by the fire! For some retail therapy, you don’t want to miss out on visiting Big Bear Lake Village. With over 120 vendors offering everything from high-end boutiques to an array of unique art pieces, it’s not to be missed.

Come to Big Bear, unwind, recharge, refresh, relax and enjoy,

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The Best Cozy Bars in Town | LA Eats

When it comes to winding down after a busy holiday, cozy is likely what first comes to mind. If you are in search of somewhere outside your home to grab a drink and settle in, we have the list for you. Read on for some of the best cozy bars around town!

Top cozy bars in the Los Angeles neighborhood

Spire 73

Spire 73 sits on the 73rd floor of the Intercontinental Hotel in Downton Los Angeles. Catch great city views at the open-air bar when taking its wide range of cocktail drinks. The bar also provides a fire pit ideal for a night out.

Everson Royce Bar

Everson Royce Bar lies downtown Arts District offering a welcoming atmosphere, an extensive collection of drinks ideal for a night out. It features an outback spacious patio where you can stargaze through the twinkle of overhead light strings over a drink.

Upstairs At The Ace

If you are looking for a tropical cocktail drink with a modern twist or fancy frozen drinks, this is the bar for you. It offers stunning wall designs, which provide a relaxing ambiance deal for a night out. The rooftop bar also offers outdoor seating where you can get the great city and sky views.

Best cozy bars in West Side and Beach Communities

Fellow

The fellow is a modern full bar that provides a wide range of cocktail and drink options. It features an impressive outdoor patio ideal for a quiet night out. The bar also offers live jazz music on Sundays, and this makes it ideal for relaxing.

Employees Only

Employees Only is a renowned bar in West Hollywood popular for its artful cocktails with a low-lit atmosphere and a speakeasy. The cocktail bar provides outdoor and indoor seating options where you can enjoy an evening after a long day.

Bodega Wine Bar

Bodega Wine Bar is a comfortable bar ideal for relaxing and drinking wine with friends after a long day. It provides indoor and outdoor seating. Besides wine, it provides a great beer collection, good music, and a friendly atmosphere.

Top cozy Bars in San Fernando Valley Neighbourhood

Unwind

Unwind bar is an intimate wine bar that provides live music in Tarzana. It offers a wide selection of alcoholic drinks and outdoor seating ideal for relaxing with friends.

The Local Peasant

The Local Peasant is a cozy bar with a huge collection of cocktail drinks, wines, and beers. It offers a relaxing atmosphere with outdoor seating ideal for relaxing after a long day.

Dark Horse Tavern

Dark Horse Tavern is an elevated pub with craft beers and a wide collection of alcoholic drinks. It offers rustic decor and patio seating, ideal for a quiet night out.

Best cozy bars in Conejo Valley Neighborhood

Herzog Wine Cellars

 

The stylish and modern winery in Thousand Oaks Enjoy boasts a collection of artisan wines. It features an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy a glass of wine in the relaxing, cozy bar.

Finney’s Craft House

Finney’s Craft House is a cozy bar in Agoura Hills popular for its first-class services. The bar provides hand-crafted cocktails and over 30 different beers you can enjoy from its outdoor patio.

Oak & Iron

Thousand Oaks Oak & Iron offers an elevated cocktail experience in a chic modern setting. This craft cocktail bar utilizes fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits to create classic and original cocktails.

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Creating the Perfect Cozy Environment | Home Tips

As November ushers in cooler days and longer nights, the warmth of a cozy home becomes more inviting than ever. Creating a snug retreat doesn’t just add to the aesthetic appeal of your space — it also provides a comforting sanctuary from the brisk outdoor air. Here are some smart and stylish ways to enhance the coziness of your home this season.

Embrace Seasonal Decor

Incorporating elements of the season into your home decor is a simple way to create a sense of warmth. Consider adding decorative touches that evoke the essence of autumn:

  • Fallen Leaves and Natural Elements: Collect colorful leaves, pinecones, and branches to create rustic, nature-inspired arrangements.
  • Autumnal Accents: Swap out throw pillows and blankets for options in rich, earthy tones like burnt orange, deep reds, and warm browns.
  • Seasonal Motifs: Introduce accessories featuring seasonal motifs such as pumpkins, acorns, or harvest themes.

Illuminate with Warm Lighting

Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood. As daylight diminishes:

  • String Lights: Drape string lights around windows or across mantelpieces for a twinkling effect.
  • Candles and Lanterns: Scatter candles or lanterns around your living spaces for soft, flickering light.
  • Dimmer Switches: Install dimmer switches to adjust the ambiance of your lighting as needed.

Layer Textures for Comfort

Layering various textures can instantly make a room feel warmer and more welcoming.

  • Throws and Blankets: Keep a selection of plush throws on couches and chairs for snuggling up on chilly evenings.
  • Rugs: Lay down thick rugs or layer multiple rugs for added insulation and a soft underfoot.
  • Cushions: Mix and match cushions in different sizes, fabrics, and patterns for a visually and physically comfortable space.

Introduce Seasonal Cozy Scents

The aroma of your home can transform the ambiance. Seasonal scents can range from the sweetness of baked goods to the earthiness of autumn leaves.

  • Scented Candles or Diffusers: Choose fragrances with notes of cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice.
  • Potpourri: Create your own potpourri with dried fruits, spices, and essential oils.
  • Baking: Regularly bake bread, pies, or cookies to fill your home with a delicious, welcoming scent.

Keep Cozy Warmth In Efficiently

Keeping your home warm can be energy-intensive, but there are efficient ways to maintain a comfortable temperature.

  • Update Window Treatments: Invest in thermal curtains or honeycomb blinds to keep the heat in and the cold out.
  • Seal Drafts: Use weather stripping or draft stoppers to seal any gaps in doors and windows.
  • Smart Thermostats: Install a smart thermostat for better control of your heating, ensuring it’s warm when you need it and conserving energy when you don’t.

Creating a cozy home environment is about engaging the senses and making strategic choices that combine style with comfort. By incorporating these tips, you can transform your home into a warm haven, perfect for relaxing alone or hosting loved ones during the colder months. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels welcoming, serene, and uniquely yours — a place where every moment is enjoyed to its fullest, no matter how chilly it is outside.

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Economic Update | Week Ending November 23, 2024

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 44,296.51, up 2% from 43,444.99 last week. It is up 17.5% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,969.34, up 1.7% from 5,870.62 last week. The S&P is up 25.2% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,003.65, up 1.7% from 18,680.12 last week. It is up 26.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.41%, almost unchanged from 4.43% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.60%, unchanged from 4.60% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

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 November 21st, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.84%, up from 6.78% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.02%, up from 5.99% last week.

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

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Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. These are October’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales October 2024 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in October, up 2.9% from an annualized rate of 3.85 million units last October. That marked the first year-over-year increase in sales in 3 years. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in October was $407,200, up 4% from $391,600 one year ago. There was a 4.2-month supply of homes for sale in October, up from a 3.6-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 27% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short salesaccounted for 2% of all sales.

October California existing-home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 264,870 on an annualized rate in October, up 4.7% from 253,010 homes on an annualized rate in September, and up 5.8% from a revised 241,910 homes sold on an annualized basis last October. The statewide median price paid for a home in October was $888,740, up 2.4% from $868,150 in September, and up 5.8% from $839.990 one year ago. There was a 3.1- month supply of homes for sale in October, down from a 3.6-month supply of homes for sale in September, but up from a 2.7-month supply in October 2023.

The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California.

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Have a great weekend!

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