Rodeo Realty

January 9, 2025

Mortgage Rate Update | January 9, 2025

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 January 9, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.93%, up from 6.91% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.14%, up from 6.13% last week.

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

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

January 6, 2025January 7, 2025

What is Transitional Style | Home Tips

Transitional style is a popular interior design style that combines traditional and contemporary elements. It’s characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and a mix of textures and materials. This style is ideal for those who want a sophisticated and elegant look in their home while still maintaining a modern feel.

Here are a few key elements of transitional style interior decorating:

Neutral color palette:

Transitional style is known for its neutral color palette, which usually consists of whites, beiges, grays, and taupes. This provides a blank canvas for accent pieces and helps create a calm and serene atmosphere.

Clean lines:

Transitional design features clean lines, simple shapes, and minimal ornamentation. This gives the room a sophisticated and modern feel while also allowing the accent pieces to shine.

Mix of materials:

Transitional style is all about mixing materials and textures. Wood, glass, metal, and stone are all common elements in this design style. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of materials that complement each other.

Accent pieces:

Transitional style is meant to be a canvas for accent pieces, such as artwork, rugs, and lighting. These pieces can add a pop of color, texture, and interest to the space.

Functional furniture:

Transitional style is about practicality and functionality. Furniture pieces should serve a purpose and be comfortable while also fitting in with the overall aesthetic.

How to use Transitional Style in your home design:

Start with a neutral palette: Use a neutral color scheme as the base for your interior design and add pops of color through accent pieces.
Mix materials: Mix and match materials such as wood, glass, metal, and stone to create texture and interest in the space.
Emphasize clean lines: Focus on clean lines and minimal ornamentation to create a modern feel.
Balance traditional and modern elements: Mix traditional pieces, such as a leather sofa, with modern accents, such as a contemporary rug.
Add accent pieces: Use accent pieces like artwork, rugs, and lighting to add color, texture, and interest to the space.
Focus on functionality: Choose furniture pieces that are functional and comfortable while also fitting in with the overall aesthetic.
Keep the space clutter-free: Transitional style emphasizes clean lines and minimalism, so keep the space free of clutter for a sophisticated and elegant look.
Play with scale: Incorporate pieces of varying scales, such as large art or a statement light fixture, to add visual interest.
Experiment with patterns: Use patterns, such as stripes or chevron, in small doses to add texture and interest.

In conclusion, Transitional style is a beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary elements, creating a sophisticated and timeless look in your home. Whether you’re starting from scratch or just looking to update your current space, incorporating these elements into your design can result in a stylish and functional space.

January 3, 2025January 4, 2025

Economic Update | Week Ending January 4, 2025

It was a quiet holiday-shortened week. Jobless claims fell to their lowest levels since March, another sign that the economy is heating up. Next Friday the Labor Department will release the December jobs report. Investors are waiting for that in hopes that hiring was not as strong in December as it was in November. More jobs available than workers looking for jobs pushes wages up which fuels consumer spending and increases the rate of inflation.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,722.13, down 0.6% from 42,992.21 last week. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,942.47, down 0.5% from 5,970.84 last week. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,622.05, down 0.5% from 19,722.02 last week.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.60%, almost unchanged from 4.62% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.82%, unchanged from 4.82% 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 January 2, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.91%, up from 6.85% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.13%, up from 6% last week.

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

Economic Update for the Year Ending
December 31, 2024

Stocks surged, inflation moderated, and mortgage rates remained high in 2024

The Fed dropped their key interest rates by 1% in 2024 – The Fed began raising their key interest rates in 2022. They had increased rates to a 24-year high to combat inflation before a ½% drop in September, a ¼% drop in November, and a ¼% drop in December. Federal Reserve Chairman Powell said at the end of the year that he only expects two additional rate drops in 2025 and that rates would remain above “neutral levels” for the foreseeable future because inflation has picked up since hitting a 3-year low in September. He also said that the economy and job market were stronger than expected and that the Fed does not expect inflation to drop to its 2% annual rate target until 2026. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer prices increased 2.7% year-over-year in November, up from a 2.6% year-over-year increase in October. The CPI peaked at 9.1% in June 2022 and has worked its way down to a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September but has ticked up the last two months. We are well below the CPI rate of 3.4% in December 2023, so we have moved in the right direction. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy costs rose 3.3% year-over-year in November for the fourth consecutive month. That is down from 3.9% in December 2023. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Index (PCE), the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, showed that consumer prices rose 2.4% in November from one year ago. Excluding food and energy Core PCE increased 2.8% year-over-year.

The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021

Stocks surged and Stock markets hit record highs in 2024 – All three indexes hit record highs in 2024 but closed the year off their record highs after the Fed announced that they were concerned that inflation had heated up and they were going to stall rate drops in 2025. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the year at 42,544.72, up 12.9% from 37,689.40 on December 31, 2023. The S&P 500 closed the year at 5,881.63, up 23.3% from 4,769.89 on December 31, 2023. The NASDAQ closed at 19,310.79, up 28.6% from 15,011.35 at the end of 2023.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields increased in 2024 – Bond yields increased in the first six months of the year. As the inflation rates dropped to their lowest levels since 2021 in September bond yields also dropped to their lowest levels of the year but increased in November and December to end the year higher than where they began the year. While the inflation rate is lower than it was a year ago the amount of the national debt has made treasury bonds less attractive and has pushed up rates. The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the year at 4.58%, up from 3.88% On December 31, 2023. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 4.78%, up from 4.03% on Dec. 31, 2023. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Mortgage rates began the year with the 30-year at 6.61%, by September it dropped to 6% but increased to end the year to 6.85%. Many people have asked, “Why have mortgage rates increased if the Fed has lowered rates by 1%?” That is an interesting question. The Fed controls overnight rates that banks pay to borrow money overnight from the Federal Reserve. That is the shortest-term rate. When overnight rates drop, banks drop their “prime” lending rate which is offered to their best customers. The prime rate is a common index for lines of credit. Those did drop 1%. Mortgages are long-term rates. Investors try to forecast inflation over a long period when purchasing mortgages. They need a spread over the inflation rate that they forecast. With the economy picking up steam, more jobs available than workers looking for work, and consumer spending higher long-term risk of inflation is higher. 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 December 26th, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.85%, up from 6.61% on December 28, 2023. The 15-year fixed was 6%, up from 5.93% on December 28, 2023.

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

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 November’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales November 2024 – National home prices rose about 5% in 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.15 million units on a seasonally annualized rate in November, up 4.8% from 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in October, and up 6.1% from an annualized rate of 3.91-million units last November. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in November was $406,100, up 4.7% from $387,800 one year ago. There was a 3.8-month supply of homes for sale in November, down from a 4.2-month supply in October, and up from a 3.5-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 30% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 25% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – Housing prices rose about 4% in 2024 – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 267,800 on an annualized basis in November, up 1.1% from 264,870 on an annualized basis in October, and up 19.5% from a revised 224,140 homes sold on an annualized basis last November. The statewide median price paid for a home was $852,880 in November, down 4% from $888,740 in October, and up 3.8% from $821,710 one year ago. There was a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in November, up from a 2.9-month supply in November 2023.

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

January 2, 2025January 2, 2025

From Solar Probe Records to YouTube Updates and More! | Tech News

The first week of January is coming to a close and your weekly round-up of tech news has arrived. From solar probe records to YouTube updates and more, we have you covered. Check out what you missed this week in the world of technology!

Parker Solar Probe Makes Historic Flyby of the Sun

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has set a record as the closest human-made object to the Sun. The solar probe came within 3.8 million miles of its surface on December 24th. Traveling at 430,000 mph, the solar probe survived extreme conditions thanks to its advanced heat shield, maintaining its internal temperature at just 85°F despite external temperatures of 2,500°F. Designed to study the Sun’s corona and solar wind, the solar probe transmitted a signal confirming its health and success on December 26th, with detailed data expected on January 1st.

Samsung Brings Budget-Friendly Galaxy Fit 3 and Galaxy A16 5G to the US

Samsung is launching the Galaxy Fit 3 fitness tracker and Galaxy A16 5G phone in the US on January 9, 2025. Priced at $59.99, the Galaxy Fit 3 features a 1.6-inch aluminum display, 13-day battery life, and advanced health tracking, including heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and over 100 workout modes. The Galaxy A16 5G, available for $199.99, offers a 6.7-inch FHD Plus OLED display, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a versatile triple-camera system, making both devices accessible and feature-packed options.

Classic Works from 1929 Enter the Public Domain

Thousands of iconic works from 1929 are now in the public domain, including early versions of Popeye and Tintin, William Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury, Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own, and Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms. This year also marks the public domain release of groundbreaking films like Alfred Hitchcock’s Blackmail and Disney’s The Skeleton Dance. As copyright protections lapse, these works are free to reuse, repurpose, and inspire new creations, with even more beloved characters like Betty Boop entering the public domain in 2026.

YouTube Tests New “Play Something” Button for Random Video Picks

YouTube is experimenting with a floating “Play Something” button in its Android app, designed to randomly select a video for users to watch. The button, located above the bottom bar, plays videos using the YouTube Shorts player, regardless of format. This follows earlier tests of similar features, echoing Netflix’s now-retired “Surprise Me” video picker.

HHS Proposes New Cybersecurity Rules for Healthcare Data Protection

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is proposing stricter cybersecurity requirements for healthcare organizations to safeguard patient data from cyberattacks. The rules include mandatory multifactor authentication, network segmentation, and encryption of patient information, along with enhanced risk analysis and compliance measures. Set to update the HIPAA Security Rule, these changes aim to address rising cyber threats, with implementation costs estimated at $9 billion in the first year. The proposal will open for public comment starting January 6, 2025.

January 2, 2025January 14, 2025

Weekend Events | January 3 – January 5

It’s a new year and there is still plenty of festive cheer to be had. From the last days of the holidays to the hottest shows from Broadway and more, we have you covered! Check out this weekend’s bounty of fun local events happening January 3 through January 5.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | January 3 – January 5

Once Upon a Mattress

When: Until January 5

Where: Downtown L.A.

What: From Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherman-Palladino comes a fresh adaptation of Once Upon a Mattress, the musical reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Princess and the Pea. The production boasts an all-star cast, including Tony Award winner Sutton Foster, Michael Urie (Ugly Betty), and Ana Gasteyer (Saturday Night Live). Elevate your theater night with a “dinner and a show” package, starting your evening at the acclaimed Italian eatery Rossoblu before heading to this must-see performance.

Wicked

When: Until February 2, 2025

Where: Pantages | Hollywood

What: Step off Dorothy’s path and into the magical world of Wicked, where the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda unfolds. This stunning tale of friendship, love, and bravery takes audiences down a new yellow brick road, offering a fresh perspective on the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Just weeks after the feature film’s release, Wicked returns to the Pantages Theatre, bringing its spellbinding songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” to life. No need to paint yourself green—simply sit back and let this “Wonderful” production enchant you, leaving your heart forever changed “For Good.”

Miracle – Downtown LA

When: Until January 5, 2025

Where: DTLA, Hermosa, Long Beach

What: The festive pop-up bar Miracle brings its whimsical Christmas cocktails and over-the-top decor to three L.A. locations: Downtown, Hermosa Beach, and Long Beach. Sip themed drinks like Jingle Balls Nog in novelty mugs, with dates running through New Year’s Eve or January 5, depending on the spot. Reservations aren’t required but are highly recommended.

Westside & Communities Weekend Events | January 3 – January 5

Winter Fest OC

When: Until 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

Miracle – Hermosa

When: Until January 5

Where: DTLA, Hermosa, Long Beach

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 | January 3 – January 5

Holidays Made Here

When: Until January 5

Where: Burbank

What: Calling all Gilmore Girls fans! This holiday season, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank is bringing Stars Hollow to life with its festive Holidays Made Here experience. From December 18, 2024, to January 5, 2025, the backlot will transform with holiday decor, featuring iconic spots like the gazebo and Luke’s Diner—where you can sip coffee from Scott Patterson’s (Luke himself) own brand. This seasonal addition is included in all studio tours, starting with the three-hour option. Get ready for a holiday trip straight out of your favorite show!

Holidays on the Hill

When: Until January 5

Where: Universal City

What: Located just below Universal Studios Hollywood, the Hilton hotel offers an ice skating rink with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. Kids can enjoy Santa’s Workshop and face painting, while adults can opt for the “date & skate” package, featuring two tickets and festive cocktails from the Jingle Bell Tavern holiday pop-up bar. Theme nights include “Wicked Wednesdays,” starting December 4, with green lighting and music from Wicked, celebrating the musical’s return to the Pantages and its upcoming film release. Don’t miss opening night on November 30, with free skating from 6–8 PM following performances by a Wicked cast member and the Los Angeles Ice Theater.

Country Music Skate Night

When: January 4

Where: Moonlight Rollerway

What: Head to Moonlight Rollerway on Saturday, January 4 for country music roller skating bash! Wear your best denim and cowboy hats for an evening of skating and fun!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | January 3 – January 5

Oxnard New Year’s Resolution Run 5K

When: Saturday, January 4·8:00 – 11:00am

Where: 3052 N Ventura Rd, Oxnard, CA 93036, USA

What: Kick off 2025 with by setting your wellness resolutions in motion! Don’t miss this Saturday’s New Year’s Resolution 5K in Oxnard.

CPC Pickleball Pro Exhibition

When: January 4

Where: Calabasas Pickleball Club | 5155 Old Scandia Lane

What: Get ready for an action-packed afternoon as pickleball stars Roscoe Bellamy, Wes Burrows, Kaanu Patel, and Gabe Joseph take the court from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Enjoy thrilling matches, exciting prizes like lessons with the pros and premium gear, plus delicious food and drinks in an exclusive viewing gallery. Don’t miss the ultimate pickleball experience!

Hatha Yoga with Horses

When: January 4

Where: Chesebro Canyon Ranch | 6500 Chesebro Road Agoura Hills

What: Find Your Zen at the Ranch! Step into serenity with Horses and Gentle Hatha Yoga classes at a stunning, historic ranch in Agoura Hills.

January 2, 2025January 9, 2025

Mortgage Rate Update | January 2, 2025

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.91%, up from 6.85% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.13%, up from 6% last week.

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

January 1, 2025January 2, 2025

Top Vegan Spots to Try This Week | LA Eats

Are you looking to add some vegan goodness to your life? Look no further. This week’s blog has rounded up the top vegan hot spots in SoCal, everything from casual eateries to gourmet gems!

LOS ANGELES

Shojin

Location: 333 S Alameda St Suite310 | Los Angeles

Are you looking to discover a plant-based gourmet experience? Head over to Shojin in Little Tokyo for an unforgettable culinary journey! Make sure not to miss out on their “crab” hand roll, baked with vegan goodness – or the robust kabocha squash ramen. With these dishes, you’ll be bound for flavor paradise!

Crossroads Kitchen

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave | Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a vegan dining experience that eclipses all expectations, Crossroads Kitchen is the place to be! This award-winning restaurant has been serving delicious plant-based cuisine since 2013 – and their Artichoke Oysters as an appetizer are definitely something special. For your main course, the Spaghetti Carbonara might just become one of your favorite dishes…ever.

Honeybee Burger

Location: 1820 N Vermont Ave | Los Angeles

Have you ever wanted to experience all the flavor and sizzle of grilling a burger without consuming any meat? Now, at Honeybee Burger in Los Feliz, that dream is a reality! Try their tantalizingly delicious vegan burgers with an accompaniment of sweet potato fries – or treat yourself to one of their shakes for good measure. It’s lunchtime perfection down to every last bite.

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES

Plant Power Fast Food

Location: 5095 Pacific Coast Hwy | Long Beach

Take a trip to Long Beach for an unforgettable meal at Plant Power Fast Food. Enjoy healthy and delicious breakfast and lunch options that are full of flavor – made with house-crafted burger patties, enjoy the convenience of their drive-through, or simply dine in. To top it off, don’t miss out on their famous horchata milkshake! With such amazing food choices, Plant Power is quickly becoming a favorite spot coastwide!

De Buena Planta

Location: 1118 Abbot Kinney Blvd | Venice

Craving a delicious vegan feast? Look no further than De Buena Planta, the acclaimed new spot in Venice! Whether you’re sipping on brilliantly crafted cocktails or indulging in some of their famous cauliflower and mushroom tacos – this plant-based paradise is sure to satisfy. So make your way over to Butcher’s Daughter for an unforgettable meal that won’t hurt your health goals!

Plant Food + Wine

Location: 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd | Venice

If you’re looking for healthy vegan eats in Abbott Kinney, Plant Food + Wine is the place to be. From locally sourced ingredients comes a delectable fusion of flavors that will make your taste buds sing! Their succulent plant-based dishes are so good they’ll have you questioning why meat was ever needed at all.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

O’cado Restaurant

Location: 14568 Ventura Blvd | Sherman Oaks
Enjoy a unique night out at O’cado, where you can experience the perfect harmony of traditional Latin and Mediterranean flavors with modern American inventions. Start off your evening by sipping on sustainable Wine, craft beer or craft cocktails -all designed to perfectly complement our culture-infused bites!

H.O.P.E.

Location: 11943 Ventura Blvd. | Studio City

Healthy Organix Positive Eating – or H.O.P.E – offers an eclectic and enchanting variety of vegan dishes, ranging from Asian specialties to Mexican favorites like burgers, wraps, and more; all served with love in a relaxed atmosphere that’s sure to please any palate!

Veggie Grill

Location: 16542 Ventura Blvd., Encino

Veggie Grill is the perfect destination for those who seek a delicious and casual lunch or dinner option. Regarded as one of the top vegan restaurants in town, Veggie Grill serves up plant-based dishes that everyone can enjoy – from vibrant Far East Bowls to savory Meatball Sandwiches. Each bite remains consistent across all its locations, ensuring an enjoyable culinary experience every time!

CONEJO VALLEY

Inn of the Seventh Ray

Location: Topanga Canyon

Escape to the charming Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga Canyon, a hidden haven boasting serene vibes and delicious vegan dishes. Enjoy lunch or brunch by day, followed by an evening meal with a side of refreshing kombucha–the perfect way to boost your mind, body, and soul! Experience one of Conejo Valley’s best eateries for yourself; you won’t be disappointed.

Natural Cafe

Location: Westlake Village

Natural Cafe in Westlake Village offers an imaginative and sumptuous range of vegan fare that’ll tantalize even the most discerning taste buds. Discover delectable dishes like the Buddha Burrito or Portobello Mushroom sandwich – a mouthwatering fusion of flavors sure to satisfy!

Sage Plant-Based Bistro

Location: Agoura Hills

For the freshest flavors, nothing beats Sage Plant-Based Bistro! This vegan hotspot in Conejo Valley serves up a plant-based feast that’s sure to satisfy. Enjoy savory Buffalo Cauliflower Wings or indulge with Jackfruit Stuffed Avocado – your taste buds will thank you later!

December 31, 2024December 31, 2024

Economic Update | Month Ending December 31, 2024

Stocks surged, inflation moderated, and mortgage rates remained high in 2024

The Fed dropped their key interest rates by 1% in 2024 – The Fed began raising their key interest rates in 2022. They had increased rates to a 24-year high to combat inflation before a ½% drop in September, a ¼% drop in November, and a ¼% drop in December. Federal Reserve Chairman Powell said at the end of the year that he only expects two additional rate drops in 2025 and that rates would remain above “neutral levels” for the foreseeable future because inflation has picked up since hitting a 3-year low in September. He also said that the economy and job market were stronger than expected and that the Fed does not expect inflation to drop to its 2% annual rate target until 2026. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer prices increased 2.7% year-over-year in November, up from a 2.6% year-over-year increase in October. The CPI peaked at 9.1% in June 2022 and has worked its way down to a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September but has ticked up the last two months. We are well below the CPI rate of 3.4% in December 2023, so we have moved in the right direction. Core CPI,which excludes volatile food and energy costs rose 3.3% year-over-year in November for the fourth consecutive month. That is down from 3.9% in December 2023. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Index (PCE), the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, showed that consumer prices rose 2.4% in November from one year ago. Excluding food and energy Core PCE increased 2.8% year-over-year.

The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021:

Stocks surged and Stock markets hit record highs in 2024 – All three indexes hit record highs in 2024 but closed the year off their record highs after the Fed announced that they were concerned that inflation had heated up and they were going to stall rate drops in 2025. The DowJones Industrial Average ended the year at 42,544.72, up 12.9% from 37,689.40 on December 31, 2023. The S&P 500 closed the year at 5,881.63, up 23.3% from 4,769.89 on December 31, 2023. The NASDAQ closed at 19,310.79, up 28.6% from 15,011.35 at the end of 2023.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields increased in 2024 – Bond yields increased in the first six months of the year. As the inflation ratesdropped to their lowest levels since 2021 in September bond yields also dropped to their lowest levels of the year but increased in November and December to end the year higher than where they began the year. While the inflation rate is lower than it was a year ago the amount of the national debt has made treasury bonds less attractive and has pushed up rates. The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the year at 4.58%, up from 3.88% On December 31, 2023. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 4.78%, up from 4.03% on Dec. 31, 2023. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

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

U.S. existing-home sales November 2024 – National home prices rose about 5% in 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.15 million units on a seasonally annualized rate in November, up 4.8% from 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in October, and up 6.1% from an annualized rate of 3.91-million units last November. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in November was $406,100, up 4.7% from $387,800 one year ago. There was a 3.8-month supply of homes for sale in November, down from a 4.2-month supply in October, and up from a 3.5-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accountedfor 30% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 25% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – Housing prices rose about 4% in 2024 – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 267,800on an annualized basis in November, up 1.1% from 264,870 on an annualized basis in October, and up 19.5% from a revised 224,140 homes sold on an annualized basis last November. The statewide median price paid for a home was $852,880 in November, down 4% from $888,740 in October, and up 3.8% from $821,710 one year ago. There was a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in November, up from a 2.9-month supply in November 2023.

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

December 31, 2024December 31, 2024

The Top Comedy Shops to Check Out for Locals | Out & About

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend an evening with plenty of laughter, giggles, and mirth, why not book tickets to watch live entertainment at one of the awesome local comedy shops? From stand-up and improv to open mic and alternative, there are plenty of options to keep you amused. Here are some of the best comedy clubs around Los Angeles and the wider Southern California area.

The Comedy Store

One of the oldest and most well-known comedy shops in LA, the old-school Comedy Store dates back to the early 1970s. It’s still in its original location on the Sunset Strip. Home to three stages, you can expect a huge lineup of fresh and funny stand-up comedians all throughout the week. Well-known names in the comedy world often grace the stage in the Original Room, and regular appearances include Joe Rogan, Marc Maron, and Natasha Leggero. The Main Room and Belly Room usually feature up-and-coming acts to entertain the crowds.

Hollywood Improv

Hollywood Improv is the flagship store of the well-known Improv brand. It’s renowned not only locally but throughout the whole of the USA. Live entertainment blends independently created routines and experimental shows, with legendary comedians often taking the mic. In addition, we recommend you to arrive early in the evening on a weekday to take advantage of Happy Hour prices.

The Comedy Union

With the accolade of being the first Black-owned comedy shop in LA, The Comedy Union specializes in urban comedy. The ambiance is intimate and cozy, and there are regular family-friendly performances where you can take the kids along. The lineup features performances from both well-established artists and newbies, and Damon Wayans is a regular well-known name.

Flappers Comedy Club

Located in Burbank, Flappers exudes an air of nostalgia with its cool 1920s vibe. There are several rooms offering a variety of humorous acts. In addition, you can enjoy a full meal and a wide selection of drinks for a well-rounded evening out.

The Laugh Factory

Situated on the iconic Sunset Strip, The Laugh Factory is a popular comedy club in Los Angeles. Likewise, tickets sell out fast. Celebrity comedians entertain the audience, and there are regular open-mic sessions and listings that include new talent. Famous for both hilarity and controversy, there’s definitely plenty of hype surrounding The Laugh Factory.

Westside Comey Theater

A top spot for a night of laughter in Santa Monica, Westside Comedy Theater features stand-up, improv, and sketch acts, with frequent celebrity drop-ins. Most Importantly, past big names have included Bryan Callen, Dave Chappelle, Tig Notaro, Tone Bell, Moshe Kasher, and Dana Carvey. Likewise, the theater also offers classes for adults and kids who want to hone their own talents.

For even more rib-tickling comedy shows in Southern California, check out:

iO West
Second City Hollywood
Dynasty Typewriter
The Groundlings
The Nitecap
Nerdist
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December 30, 2024December 31, 2024

The Best Luxury Desks for Your Home Office | Home Tips

A comfortable working space is essential to help you focus and work excellently. Therefore, you might have found yourself purchasing a home office desk, or you are considering an upgrade. Buying luxury desks for your home office space will enrich your working environment. You will find a perfect desk that meets your needs regardless of your budget or living space.

Below is an insight into the luxury desks creatively designed to meet your needs!

Blidu Desk

If you are looking for innovative luxury desks for the current era, look no further than Blidu desk. The desk has docking stations for your smartphone, tablets, and 4 USB hubs. In addition, your notebooks and other essential items have a storage space in the drawers of the Blidu desk.

The Blidu desk is made of cherrywood material.
Tom Schuster designed it.

Black River Writing Desks

The Black River Writing Desks has a flat surface top and middle drawer. Each new product is produced from different wood slabs. Therefore the color, textures, and curves of wood used in the product can be changed. Arditi, the manufacturer of the luxury desk, uses the best-selected walnut and olive wood with the highest quality epoxy resin currently available in the market.

Florida-based Arditi Design designed the desk.
It has strong angular legs of metal material.
Its surface is broad.
It has a storage drawer.
It is made of walnut and olive wood.

Branch Standing Desk

Stability is a guarantee when you are using the branch standing desk. This luxury desk had dual motors and three-stage columns to rise quickly yet quietly. Better still, the high-tech standing desk has excellent wire organization with a brushed cable grommet. This beautifully crafted branch standing desk gives you centimeter alteration and a keypad with four memory presets.

The branch standing table has an effect and stainless laminated melamine top.
It has a 3mm coated leg.
Its style is modern.
It is available in wood grain, white, or walnut colors.
Its market price is $699.

Symbol Audio Desk

A little music can elevate your mood and stimulate your concentration. Symbol audio desk has inbuilt speakers behind the cabinet doors. Likewise, you can use the speakers with wireless streaming for a wire-free work surface.

Minimal Wall Desk

Minimal Wall Desk is not only a writing desk but a complete station for your desktop. This luxury desk float has a design that allows you to use it as a standard height sitting desk. In addition, the desk has a wire management slot and a perfect surface slide tray.

Includes a drawer that extends out by 9in.
It has a large keyboard tray.
It is made of walnut and rift oak material.

Laura Desk

The Laura desk is a modern luxury writing desk that is simple but functional. The desk has three cubbies at the back for hiding two ports back in the shadow. In addition, the Laura Desk has two angled drawers that can give simple storage for items such as pens, notebooks, paperclips, and smartphones.

Locus Sphere Work Station

A locus sphere is a standing desk that can tilt to give you a more ergonomic posture. Likewise, the desk requires you to crank it manually when adjusting its height, but a German crank system can ease the adjusting process.

The locus sphere has two adjustments.
Includes a removable cup holder
Made of 13-layer plywood
Costs around $1,975