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Mortgage Rate Update | November 6, 2025

MRU

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 6 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.22%, up from 6.17% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.5%, up from 5.41% 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.

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From Instacart AI Tools to Sandbar’s Stream Ring and More! | Tech News

Don’t miss a beat with this week’s leading tech news headlines. The internet is abuzz with major updates in the world of AI and startups. We are breaking down the latest from Instacart AI tools to Sandbar’s Stream Ring and more! Read on for our weekly round-up and stay connected.

Instacart Launches Enterprise AI Suite

Instacart unveiled a new enterprise offering called “AI Solutions” aimed at helping grocers. The Instacart tool seeks to help grocers of all sizes adopt generative and agentic AI to upgrade everything from product discovery to inventory management. Likewise, Instacart says the move is about giving smaller chains access to the same kinds of AI‑powered tools that bigger players have, leveling the digital grocery playing field. The Instacart announcement signals that even everyday sectors like food retail are accelerating their AI transformation. For marketers, the move by Instacart suggests we’ll see more hyper‑personalized shopping experiences, smarter in‑aisle suggestions, and tighter integration between digital and physical. 

US AI Startups Lead With Big Rounds

According to recent data, U.S. startups pulled in very large venture rounds in October — California alone saw ~$8.5 billion raised, and roughly 38 % of investments went to AI‑driven businesses. This surge underscores how the North American tech ecosystem remains the dominant venture zone for frontier AI, even as other regions ramp up. It also highlights that investor appetite is still strong in deep tech and enterprise AI, not just consumer apps or hype. For marketers like you, Samira, this means messaging around “AI ready,” “enterprise‑grade,” and “scaling with AI” will be more than jargon — it’s becoming expected. And for brand strategies, aligning with AI‑led narratives (ethics, capability, scale) will increasingly matter.

Grafana Labs Launches Mimir 3.0

Grafana Labs (known for its open‑source observability tools) launched “Mimir 3.0” at the latest KubeCon & CloudNativeCon North America event. Likewise, the update brings large‑scale monitoring, improved metrics backend, and enterprise‑grade performance for Prometheus‑compatible stacks. In plain terms: as companies run ever‑larger distributed systems, the tools to monitor and understand them are evolving fast — and turning open‑source platforms into serious enterprise alternatives. This matters because it shifts more operational power from cloud providers into software stacks that customers control and customize. For marketing teams, it means tech brands will lean more into “open,” “scalable,” “trusted” narratives. And for pop‑culture crossover, the notion of open infrastructure becoming mainstream tech mirrors how creative tools are democratizing. Of course, this means that tech storytelling and art storytelling align again.

Vehicle Tech Week North America Announced for 2026 in Michigan

A major automotive‑technology event organizer announced a new large‑scale show — Vehicle Tech Week North America, which is taking place in October 2026 in Novi, Michigan. The event brings together three big sub‑shows (testing, autonomy, interiors) under one roof, symbolizing how vehicle tech disciplines are merging. It demonstrates the auto industry’s recognition that mobility innovation is no longer just about engines — it’s about AI, user experience, smart interiors, and full system integration. For creative marketers, the implication is that “mobility” stories are becoming tech‑culture stories; interiors, UX, ambient computing, and voice assistants in cars all become narratives. If you’re working on any campaign touching travel, transport, or smart spaces, this show signals where the culture and tech stories will cross.

Sandbar Stream Ring for notes, chats, and a personal voice

Sandbar, a startup founded by former CTRL-Labs employees, introduced the Stream Ring, a wearable ring that records whispered voice notes, transcribes them into the companion app, and offers an “Inner Voice” AI chatbot trained on the user’s recorded voice. The ring promises one-tap capture for thoughts-to-text, on-device controls for media, and a charging puck. Sandbar says the mic is not always listening and that recordings are encrypted. The device is pitched as a personal extension for idea capture and lightweight interaction. Likewise, this blending of hardware gestures and haptics with a conversational, voice-based assistant. Preorders opened at $249–$299 with US shipping expected in summer 2026.

Giga Raises $61 M, Hearvana Raises $6 M for On‑Device Sound AI

Recent funding rounds spotlight two promising North American startups. The start-up: Giga raised  $61 million to build voice‑AI customer‑support agents. Hearvana, another start-up to watch, secured $6 million to develop on‑device AI for advanced hearing enhancement. The contrast illustrates two big themes: voice/agent automation moving into enterprise workflows. Additionally, it highlights on‑device intelligence (not just cloud). For marketers, this signals that audio interfaces and voice platforms are increasingly strategic. And for consumer brand stories, the line between “smart device” and “smart experience” keeps blurring. Of course, this shift creates opportunities to talk about inclusion, experience, and brand voice.

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Weekend Events | November 7 – November 9

November has arrived, and with it, plenty of fall fun! From the Los Angeles Wine and Food Festival to rooftop cinema and more, the city is filled with fall happenings. Check out this week’s round-up of weekend activities happening from November 7 through November 9.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 7 – November 9 

New Original Works (NOW) Festival

When: November 6 – November 22

Where: Downtown

What: Catch bold, experimental performances at REDCAT’s 22nd annual New Original Works Festival, where L.A.-based artists transform the space into a cutting-edge stage laboratory. Spanning three weekends, the festival showcases innovative works in dance, theater, music, and multimedia. Can’t make it in person? Select shows will also be livestreamed.

Tarantino Live: Pulp Rock Extravaganza

When: Until November 16 

Where: CineVita | Inglewood

What: For the Record is back with its most ambitious show yet: Tarantino Live returns inside CineVita, the world’s largest Spiegeltent, now home to FTR at Hollywood Park next to SoFi Stadium. The high-octane production honors 30 years of Pulp Fiction and reimagines unforgettable scenes and musical numbers from Quentin Tarantino’s iconic films, like Kill Bill, to Django Unchained. Expect a dazzling, immersive blend of theater, film, and concert that celebrates the legendary director’s cinematic universe.

Fireside Films by Rooftop Cinema Club

When: Until January 4, 2026

Where: Downtown

What: Street Food Cinema keeps the outdoor movie magic going with its cozy Fireside Films series, featuring heaters, seasonal favorites, and a free hot drink with each ticket. The lineup mixes holiday hits like Elf, Home Alone, and The Holiday with beloved L.A.-set films like La La Land and L.A. Confidential, plus newer crowd-pleasers such as Sinners and Freakier Friday. Screenings run throughout November and December—perfect for festive film lovers.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 7 – November 9 

Los Angeles Wine & Food Festival

When: November 7-November 9

Where: Santa Monica

What: Not to be confused with the former L.A. Food & Wine Festival, the L.A. Wine & Food Festival is a new Tastemade-backed culinary celebration held over a weekend at Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar. Expect unlimited food and drink from a standout roster of chefs, including Ludo Lefebvre (Petit Trois), Jazz Singsanong (Jitlada), Stephanie Izard (Girl & the Goat), and Brooke Williamson (Playa Provisions), as well as rising stars from Badash Bakes, H&H Bagels, and Maydan. Single-day passes are a splurge, but a discounted three-day ticket ($319 before fees) offers the full gourmet experience for dedicated food lovers.

Renegade Craft Fair

When: November 8 – November 9 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Renegade Craft Fair returns to Santa Monica’s Interim Open Space with a free two-day marketplace spotlighting the best in indie crafts. Shop handmade goods from hundreds of makers, enjoy DIY activities, food trucks, and live demos, all set in a creative, community-driven atmosphere. Perfect for gift shopping or treating yourself.

Live Talks Los Angeles

When: Until December 4 

Where: Venice

What: L.A.’s star-studded lecture series returns this October with a dynamic mix of in-person and virtual events featuring some of the most fascinating minds in arts, science, and entertainment. Guests can expect captivating talks from notable figures like Werner Herzog, Tim Curry, Judd Apatow, and Marc Maron. Many events offer the option to purchase a signed copy of the speaker’s book, making it a must for curious minds and culture lovers alike.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 7 – November 9 

CRUISER FEST 2025

When: November 8 

Where: 18730 Soledad Canyon Road | Santa Clarita

What: Cruiser Fest is a fun, family-friendly celebration where vintage cruisers, custom builds, and classic lowriders shine in the California sun. This vibrant car show brings together automotive enthusiasts of all ages for a day of style, culture, and chrome.

Wagyu, Whiskey, and Wine Dinner

When: November 8

Where: 3400 West Olive Avenue | Burbank

What: Join Morton’s The Steakhouse for an indulgent evening featuring a five-course Wagyu dinner expertly paired with whiskey cocktails and fine wines on November 8, 2025, at 6:30 PM. The $149 ticket includes tax, gratuity, and fees for an unforgettable tasting experience spotlighting Wagyu in creative preparations, accompanied by curated wine and spirit pairings. Guests can also enhance their night with a VIP pre-party at 6:00 PM for an additional $29, which includes a Wagyu cheesesteak and a flight of Horse Soldier bourbons.

Empower Her: Marketing, Branding & Influence discussion

When: November 9

Where: Burbank Chamber of Commerce | 200 West Magnolia Boulevard

What: Join us for Empower Her: Marketing, Branding & Influence, a dynamic panel discussion featuring industry pros sharing real-world insights to elevate your brand and amplify your impact. Whether you’re building from scratch or scaling your reach, this inspiring event at the Burbank Chamber of Commerce is your chance to learn, connect, and grow. Come ready to soak up expert advice and network with like-minded changemakers!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 7 – November 9 

Veterans Day Celebration & Ceremony

When: November 8

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum | 51 S Ventura Park Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: Celebrate Veterans Day at the Stagecoach Inn Museum on Saturday, November 8, 2025, with a patriotic tribute to local pioneers who served from the Civil War to today. Enjoy historic exhibits, live music, family-friendly crafts, and photo ops in front of a giant American flag. Kids can pan for gold and hunt for fall critters while learning the significance of Veterans Day.

Patagonia Salmon Run 5K in Ventura

When: November 9

Where: Ventura

What: The 29th Annual Patagonia Salmon Run 5K returns on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at a location to be announced in Ventura. Runners of all levels are invited to join this community race celebrating fitness and sustainability. 

Conejo Valley Community Concert & Jazz Bands Fall Concert

When: November 9 

Where: 28545 W Driver Ave, Agoura Hills

What: Enjoy an afternoon of music at the Conejo Valley Community Concert & Jazz Bands Fall Concert on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Led by Bob Hackett, the free performance will take place at the Agoura High School PAEC (28545 Driver Ave., Agoura Hills). Presented by the Cities of Agoura Hills and Westlake Village, this community event is open to the public and perfect for all ages.

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Top 10 Wine Bars to Savor This Fall | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is a wine lover’s dream. Likewise, the city’s collection of intimate, stylish bars makes sipping and savoring vino an experience in itself. Whether you’re craving a glass of chilled chenin blanc or indulging in small plates with your pour, we have you covered. Our curated list highlights 10 of the best wine bars in Los Angeles to enjoy this fall.

Augustine Wine Bar

Location: 13456 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
 This Sherman Oaks favorite has made a triumphant return following a kitchen fire in 2023. With its warm, rustic interior and top-tier by-the-glass selections, Augustine continues to shine. It’s a staple among wine bars in Los Angeles, especially for those who appreciate vintage bottles and thoughtful service.

The 1894

Location: 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
 Located inside Vroman’s Bookstore, this literary-inspired gem pairs wine flights with charm. With a cozy, intellectual ambiance, The 1894 offers a tightly curated menu of wines and creative wine-based cocktails.

Baby Battista

Location: 3111 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039
 Tucked beneath Nico’s bottle shop in Atwater Village, Baby Battista feels like a secret worth sharing. Build your own charcuterie plate and sample a rotating wine list in a moody, vintage-style den.

Wife and the Somm

Location: 3416 Verdugo Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90065
 A relaxed Glassell Park staple, this bar brings together a well-curated wine list, excellent bites, and community charm. Owners Christy and Chris Luchese have created a true neighborhood haven.

Tabula Rasa Bar

Location: 5125 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
 This East Hollywood hangout is perfect for casual sipping with serious wine knowledge behind the bar. A monthly wine club and pop-up food events make it one of the most dynamic wine bars in Los Angeles.

Seco

Location: 3820 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
 Sister to Silver Lake’s Santo, Seco transforms from a daytime cafe to a cozy natural wine bar after dark. The minimal but carefully selected list favors natural, low-intervention wines.

Justine’s Wine Bar

Location: 2029 Blake Ave #102, Los Angeles, CA 90039
 Located behind a plant-based bakery in Frogtown, Justine’s offers wine cocktails, personal pizzas, and a neighborly vibe that encourages lingering over your glass.

Del Re Wine Bar

Location: 900 N Broadway #1070, Los Angeles, CA 90012
 A Chinatown favorite, Del Re balances a casual food menu with a fun, ever-evolving wine list. Bonus: wine flights and events like music nights and scavenger hunts.

Offhand Wine Bar

Location: 3008 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404
 This Westside hideaway turns from cafe to wine bar with flair. Natural wines, craft beers, and low-intervention sakes fill the menu, making it a favorite among Santa Monica locals.

Adams Wine Shop & Wine Bar

Location: 5357 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
 Dedicated to wines from women and BIPOC producers, this boutique bar in West Adams delivers with affordable flights and laid-back vibes. It’s one of the most community-focused wine bars in Los Angeles.

From Sherman Oaks to Santa Monica, these 10 wine bars in Los Angeles offer something for every palate. No matter the occasion, our list guarantees you’ll sip in style all season long.

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SoCal’s Best Autumn Hikes | Out & About

As the air turns cooler and golden hour arrives a little earlier, November is a magical time to explore the outdoors in Southern California. While the region is known for its endless summer, fall offers a different kind of beauty—quieter trails, crisper mornings, and the occasional burst of red or amber foliage. From breezy coastal canyons to dramatic mountain ascents, these autumn hikes in Southern California deliver unforgettable seasonal experiences.

Griffith Park – Los Angeles

Trail: Griffith Observatory West Loop Trail

Tucked right in the heart of Los Angeles, Griffith Park offers more than just views of the Hollywood Sign. The West Loop Trail, beginning near the observatory, is a moderately challenging route that winds through chaparral-covered hills and opens up to breathtaking city vistas. On crisp November days, the smog often clears, offering surprisingly clear panoramic views stretching from Downtown to the Pacific. The lower sun angles also cast a golden glow across the hillsides, perfect for early evening treks. Expect to encounter fewer crowds this time of year—ideal for those seeking a serene break without leaving the city.

Solstice Canyon – Malibu

Trail: Solstice Canyon Trail

This coastal trail in Malibu blends lush creekside vegetation with wide-open views of the Santa Monica Mountains. The Solstice Canyon Trail is around 3 miles round-trip and relatively flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. In the fall, the shaded canyon floor cools down considerably, offering a welcome contrast to the warmer summer months. Highlights include the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House and a seasonal waterfall that may begin to trickle after early rains. Birdsong, rustling leaves, and the distant sound of the ocean make this hike a peaceful autumn escape.

Mount Baldy – San Gabriel Mountains

Trail: Baldy Bowl via Ski Hut Trail

For those looking to embrace the full alpine fall experience, Mount Baldy is the ultimate destination. The Baldy Bowl Trail is a challenging 8-mile loop with an elevation gain of over 3,900 feet, making it best suited for experienced hikers. In November, temperatures drop significantly, and snow can occasionally dust the peaks, so come prepared with layers. As you ascend through pine forests and rocky switchbacks, you’ll experience changing landscapes that feel far removed from urban SoCal. The views from the summit are stunning—on clear days, you can see all the way to Catalina Island.

Escondido Falls – Malibu

Trail: Escondido Canyon Trail

This popular trail takes you on a 4-mile round-trip journey through one of Malibu’s most enchanting canyons. The path starts with a gentle, scenic stroll past coastal homes before dipping into oak-shaded canyon terrain. In November, recent rains may revive the namesake waterfall, making for a rewarding destination after the moderate hike. The trail’s shifting mix of open sky and enclosed woodland offers variety and peacefulness, with fall foliage making an occasional appearance in the tree canopy. Be prepared for some muddy spots after rain, and wear supportive shoes for the rocky final stretch to the falls.

Eaton Canyon – Pasadena

Trail: Eaton Canyon Trail

Eaton Canyon is a beloved San Gabriel Valley destination, especially during the cooler months when the trail is at its most inviting. This 3.5-mile round-trip trail features well-maintained paths that wind through dry brush and into a lush, shaded arroyo. In fall, you’ll spot sycamore and oak trees shedding their leaves, giving the trail a subtle seasonal makeover. The hike culminates at a 40-foot waterfall, which may start to flow again with November rains. This is a family-friendly option that still offers rewarding views and a dose of autumn tranquility.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, panoramic vistas, or a peaceful stroll under a canopy of fall foliage, these autumn hikes in Southern California offer an ideal way to celebrate the season. Lace up your boots, pack a light jacket, and enjoy SoCal’s most scenic trails at their seasonal best.

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November Home Maintenance Checklist | Home Tips

As the air grows crisper and the holidays approach, November is the perfect time for high-end homeowners to turn their attention inward and prepare their properties for winter. A proactive approach now ensures your home remains both comfortable and functional through the colder months. From fireplace inspections to insulation upgrades, this November home maintenance checklist is your refined guide to seasonal prep.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

Autumn leaves may be beautiful, but they can clog your gutters and lead to serious water damage if left unchecked. Before winter rains begin, clear out all debris and consider installing gutter guards. For luxury properties with custom roofing or intricate landscaping, professional gutter services ensure a clean and damage-free system.

2. Schedule a Fireplace and Chimney Inspection

Nothing sets a cozy winter scene like a roaring fireplace—but safety comes first. A certified chimney sweep should inspect for soot buildup, structural issues, or blockages. Whether you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace, this is an essential item on your November home maintenance checklist to ensure safe and efficient use during the holidays.

3. Check and Upgrade Insulation

Maintain your home’s temperature without overworking your HVAC system by ensuring insulation is intact. Pay special attention to attics, basements, and around windows and doors. Luxury homeowners may also consider radiant floor heating or smart insulation upgrades for enhanced comfort and energy savings.

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With heaters and fireplaces in use, fall and winter pose a higher risk for household fires and carbon monoxide leaks. Test all alarms, replace batteries, and consider upgrading to a connected smart system for enhanced peace of mind.

5. Service Your HVAC System

Have a professional inspect your heating system before cold temperatures set in. Replace filters, check for leaks or malfunctions, and make sure thermostats are calibrated correctly. This is especially important in larger homes with zoned heating or radiant systems, where early service can prevent costly repairs later.

6. Seal Drafts and Weatherproof Windows

Drafty windows not only increase your heating bill but also detract from your home’s overall comfort. Add weather stripping, caulk where needed, and explore high-end window treatment options that also offer insulation benefits. If your property includes large sliding doors or glass walls, consult a specialist for luxury-grade solutions.

7. Winterize Outdoor Spaces

Before temperatures drop, protect your exterior investments. Cover or store patio furniture, drain and shut off outdoor water systems, and prune back any vulnerable landscaping. For properties with outdoor kitchens, pools, or fountains, ensure all equipment is winterized properly.

8. Prepare for Holiday Guests

While not strictly maintenance, now is a great time to refresh guest rooms and prep the home for entertaining. Consider a deep clean, touch-up paint, or luxury amenities like fresh linens, candles, and bath products to offer your guests a hotel-worthy experience.

By following this November home maintenance checklist, luxury homeowners can preserve the beauty and functionality of their property while enjoying a seamless transition into winter. With just a weekend or two of effort, your home will be ready to weather the season in both style and comfort.

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Economic Update | Month Ending October 31, 2025

The Federal Reserve dropped its key interest rates by ¼% in October –Unfortunately, in the announcement of the rate drop Fed Chairman, Jerome Powell stated that the Fed does not expect another drop this year at this time. The stock market, bond, and mortgage investors felt that there would be another drop this year. That expectation was built into stock prices, bond yields, and mortgage rates. Those interest rates increased after Powell spoke and stocks dropped a little off their all-time high levels set on Tuesday.

Government Shutdown – Thirty-one days into the government shutdown stock markets have continued to rise to record levels almost every day. There have been lots of issues. Strictly speaking to financials, the jobs and unemployment report, the Producer Price Index, the Personal Consumption Expenditure Index, Retail sales, new home sales, and other data for September were not released in October. The CPI report was released late in the month because it was needed to calculate the annual Social Security benefits increase.

Inflation is showing signs of leveling – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September was released. It showed that consumer prices rose 3% from one year ago. The 3% CPI rate was the highest level since January 2025, but below analysts’ expectations of a 3.1% rise. The CPI rate dropped steadily after peaking at 9.1% in June 2022, its highest level since 1981. By April 2025 it had worked its way down to 2.3%. Experts felt that we were just months away from hitting the Fed’s 2% target but when the administration began increasing tariffs, some of those tariffs were passed along to consumers and the CPI rate began to steadily rise. Even though the CPI rate was the highest since January, investors felt good about the numbers and stock markets ended the week at record levels. The Core CPI rate which excludes food and energy rose 3%from one year ago as well, down from 3.1% in August. The CPI report was delayed due to the government shutdown. Other reports, like the September Jobs report, the Producer Price Index and others are delayed indefinitely. The government called in furloughed government employees to complete the CPI report because it was needed to calculate the amount of the annual increase to social security payments. The increase was set at 2.8% after the CPI report was released.

The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021

Stock markets hit record levels almost every day in October – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month at 47,562.87, up 2.5% from 46,397.86 on September 30, 2025. The Dow is up 6.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 6,840.20, up 2.3% from 6,688.46 on September 30, 2025. It is up 13.3% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed at 23,724.96, up 4.7% from 22,660.01 at the end of September. It is up 20.9% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury Bond Yields – The 10-year U.S. Treasury bond yield closed the month at 4.11%, down from 4.16% on August 30, 2025. The 30-year treasury yield ended the month at 4.67%, down from 4.73% on August 30, 2025. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow Treasury 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 October 30, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.17%, down from 6.30% last month. The 15-year fixed was 5.41%, down from 5.49% last month.

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

September home sales – The California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors release home sales data on the third week of each month for the previous month. Here is the September 2025 home sales recap. You can run a report on your city or zip code with the same data at RodeoRe.com.

U.S. existing-home sales – September 2025 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.06 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in September, up 1.3% from the number of homes sold in August and up 4.1% from the number of homes sold last September. The median price paid for a home sold in the U.S. in September was $415,200, down 1.75% from $422,600 in August but up 2.1% from $406,700 one year ago. There was a 4.6-month supply of homes for sale in September, up from a 4.2-month supply last September. First-time buyers accounted for 30% of all sales, up from 28% last month. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 15% of all sales, down from 21% in August. All cashpurchases accounted for 30% of all sales, up from 28% last month. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 277,410 on an annualized basis in September, up 5% from 264,240 in August. Year-over-year sales were up 6.6% from a revised 260,340 annualized home sales last September. The statewide median price paid for a home was $883,640 in September, down 1.7% from $899,130 in August and up 1.8% from $868,150 in September 2024. The unsold inventory index showed that there was a 3.6-month supply of homes for sale in September.

The graph below shows CAR sales data by county for Southern California.

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Economic Update | Week Ending October 31, 2025

Weekly Economic Update; WEU

The Federal Reserve dropped its key interest rates by ¼% in October –  Unfortunately, in the announcement of the rate drop, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated that the Fed does not expect another drop this year at this time. The stock market, bond, and mortgage investors felt that there would be another drop this year. That expectation was built into stock prices and bond yields and mortgage rates. Those interest rates increased after Powell spoke, and stocks dropped a little off their all-time high levels set on Wednesday.

Stock Markets – Despite the government shutdown, stock markets closed the week at record highs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 47,562.87, up 0.8% from 47,207.12 last week. Year-to-date, it is up 6.8% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6,840.20, up 0.7%from 6,791.69 last week. Year-to-date, the S&P is up 13.3% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 23,724.96, up 2.2% from 23,204.87 last week. Year-to-date, it is up 20.9% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.11%, up from 4.02% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.67% up from 4.59% 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 October 30, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.17%, nearly unchanged from 6.19% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.41%, down slightly from 5.44% last week.

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

Have a Great Weekend!

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Mortgage Rate Update | October 30, 2025

MRU

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 October 30 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.17%, nearly unchanged from 6.19% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.41%, down slightly from 5.44% 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.

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From Lucid Autonomous Driving to Zillow DM’s and More! | Tech News

Technology keeps moving the everyday world forward. From Lucid and its autonomous fleet to Zillow and its new DM feature, we have you covered with the latest. This week’s roundup breaks down the top tech stories you should know, whether you prefer to skim or share.

Uber, Stellantis, Nvidia & Foxconn Join Forces to Build a Robotaxi Stack

Four major players: Uber, Stellantis, Nvidia, and Foxconn have teamed up to accelerate purpose-built robotaxi development by combining deployment expertise, vehicle integration, AI compute, and manufacturing scale. The partnership bundles Uber’s fleet experience, Stellantis’s vehicle know-how, Nvidia’s DRIVE compute platform, and Foxconn’s high-volume assembly capabilities to shorten the path from prototype to passenger service. By coordinating hardware, software, and deployment early, the group hopes to optimize cost and reliability for commercial autonomous ride services. Regulators, insurers, and city planners remain key variables, because local approvals and safety validation govern large-scale rollouts. If executed well, this collaboration could significantly hasten when and where robotaxis begin regular passenger operations.

Lucid to Offer Nvidia-Powered Autonomous Driving in Privately Owned Cars

Lucid announced plans to offer advanced autonomous capabilities for privately owned vehicles using Nvidia’s compute stack. Likewise, the news from Lucid aims to bring high-performance driver assistance and supervised hands-off modes to luxury EV buyers. Unlike fleet-focused robotaxi projects, Lucid chose an approach that emphasizes delivering optional premium autonomy directly to owners. Of course, this is all while preserving vehicle control and safety protocols for Lucid vehicles. Consumer availability will depend on testing, regional regulatory approvals, and rigorous safety validation. The move by Lucid reflects a broader OEM trend: differentiating on both electric drivetrains and embedded autonomous software. For buyers, the promise is advanced in-car automation packaged as a luxury option rather than a fleet service.

ChatGPT Adds PayPal Purchases for Seamless In-Chat Buying

OpenAI and PayPal expanded commerce integration so ChatGPT users can complete purchases and subscriptions using PayPal flows directly inside the chat experience. This reduces friction by letting people act on recommendations. Likewise, that means users can book tickets, buy products, or subscribe, all without leaving the conversation or copying payment details. The integration benefits merchants and creators by turning conversational recommendations into conversions more quickly, though it also raises practical questions around refunds, fees, and purchase intent mapping. OpenAI stresses transparency and user controls for payments; merchants gain a fresh channel to convert chat suggestions into orders. Overall, it’s a meaningful step toward mainstreaming in-chat commerce.

Zillow Debuts Native Direct Messaging to Simplify Buyer–Agent Chats

Zillow launched an in-app direct messaging feature so prospective buyers, renters, and agents can chat, share photos, and schedule tours without switching apps or losing listing context. The DMs aim to centralize inquiries, accelerate lead follow-up, and keep conversation history attached to listings and user profiles. Agents benefit from a unified inbox and easier tracking; consumers get a shorter path from discovery to contact. Zillow built privacy and spam controls into the feature and plans to iterate on admin and automation tools for professionals. It’s a practical step that converts browsing interest into timely, conversational engagement.

Adobe Unveils New AI Tools Across Photoshop, Lightroom & Premiere at MAX 2025

At Adobe MAX, Adobe rolled out generative AI and assistant features across Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere that speed compositing, masking, color work, and clip assembly. Highlights include context-aware edits, automated harmonization, faster masking tools, improved audio cleanup, and tighter cloud-to-desktop handoffs for mobile-to-workstation workflows. Adobe positions these updates as productivity multipliers that reduce repetitive tasks, letting creators focus on creative decisions while retaining control. The release signals that generative tools are moving from experimental filters into everyday production pipelines. For studios and freelancers, the updates promise faster turnarounds and more room for iterative experimentation.

Spotify Expands Apple TV App with Music, Video & Podcast Features

Spotify updated its tvOS app to bring richer music browsing, short-form video clips, and better podcast playback to Apple TV, improving navigation and cross-device continuity for living-room listening. The update aims to make Apple TV a more appealing place to discover music videos and shared listening moments and to treat the big screen as a first-class music experience. Podcast playback and queueing are more TV-friendly, and the improved visual discovery enhances party and family listening. This helps Spotify compete for shared-screen listening time and expands where users discover and consume audio content.

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