LA’s Best Breweries | L.A. Eats

In the spirit of Octoberfest and fall, we’re brewing up a list of LA’s best breweries. The Los Angeles craft beer scene is magical. Everything from classics, barrel-aged sours, hazy IPAs, and new pop-ups across LA. Be sure you will find your beer in local bars or breweries with dedicated taprooms. Here, you will find award-winning brewers trying new inventions or breweries selling up to 5,000 unique beers in South California.

Simply put Los Angeles floods with breweries and bars from San Fernando Valley to Conejo Valley and Westside. Explore our top picks for the best breweries in town and enjoy great craft beer.

Boomtown Brewery

Location: Downtown LA

When it comes to breweries, you’ll enjoy a wide beer selection at Boomtown Brewery. You will always find at least 20 beers on tap whenever you visit this brewery. Signature beers include seasonal fruited ales and Bohemian pilsners. You can visit the taproom every six to eight weeks to enjoy artist-created labels.

Monkish Brewing

Location: Manhattan Beach

Opened in 2010, Monkish has distinguished itself from other breweries by focusing on Belgian-style ales. The all-Belgian brewery pioneered the hazy and juicy beer, unfiltered Northeast-style IPAS, on the West Coast.

Phantom Carriage

Location: Manhattan Beach

Get the absolute best craft beer in Manhattan Beach at Phantom Carriage. As one of South Bay’s favorite breweries, it’s known for farm-inspired craft beer and sours. The brewery welcomes you with a decor scheme of a haunted house.

The Surly Goat

Location: Encino

Surly Goat is another top LA brewery for an epic night out. The icon brewery has 27 taps rotating in its dedicated taproom. If you visit the brewery, you will find one of the most sought-after IPAs, Pliny The Elder.

Modern Times Beer: The Dankness Dojo

Location: Downtown LA

Modern Times is known for consistently serving great beer. You will find at least 15-20 unique beers every time you visit their taproom. Come in groups and enjoy barrel-aged cider aged in bourbon barrels.

Santa Monica Brew Works

Location: Santa Monica

The Santa Monica Brew Works opened a full Tap right in SM after years of brewing and distributing beer. The taproom is ideal for a big group, thanks to the ample floor space and long tables. Enjoy their cucumber kölsch or the Head in The Clouds hazy IPA.

The Library Alehouse

Location: Santa Monica

This brewery is known for hosting popular tap takeover nights. Library Ale House has a spacious taproom with roughly 25 taps of the best craft beer on the Westside.

All Season Brewing

Location: Mid-Wilshire

The brewery produces classic American -style beers in its 15-barrel powerhouse. Do not hesitate to go for a second pint once you taste All Season Brewing’s crowd-pleaser, crushable beers.

Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie

Location: Agoura Hills

Located in Agoura Hills, Ladyface Alehouse and Brasserie began as a beer bar before it blossomed into a brewery. It is known for signature beers such as La Grisette. Get to enjoy LA’s local Cheeseboro IPA in a Belgian-style brewery.

 

Enjoy Apple Picking this Fall | Out & About

When it comes to celebrating fall weather, apple picking is an ideal experience. Aside from being Instagram-worthy, this nature-focused activity bodes all the most loved elements of fall. Southern California offers several excellent apple farms to choose from. Read on for our favorite picks of where to go apple picking in SoCal this fall.

Snow-Line Orchard

Dating back to 1898, Snow-Line Orchard has been a staple of Southern California apple farming. Founded by Issac Ford and operated for the past 36 years by Mert and Shirley Hudson, Snow-Line offers a wide variety of apples for snacking and cooking. Likewise, the farm also has a winery and cider, raspberry picking, and delicious mini-cider donuts. Snow-line is open for u-picking on the weekends only. From July to the end of August, the farm is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 to 4:00 pm, and September through December, seven days a week, 9:00 to 5:00 pm. 

Willowbrook Apple Farm

Where to go Apple Picking in SoCal this Fall

The Willowbrook Apple Farm features a Stayman-Winesap apple orchard that is over 100 years old, with original trees planted in 1910. Certainly, after picking your apples, you can enjoy apple cider, a petting zoo, a caramel apple, and clean-crafted wine by a bonfire. Beginning Labor day, Willowbrook will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. 

Los Rios Ranchos

Where to go Apple Picking in SoCal this Fall

Los Rios Ranchos is one of the premier apple-picking farms in the area. They have 32 varieties of apples, including Gala, Spartan, and MacIntosh, but check online before you go for a listing of what’s ready to pick. Likewise, Los Rios Ranchos also has a petting zoo, store tent, apple cider, and country cooking with picnic tables. They are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Riley’s Apple Farm

Where to go Apple Picking in SoCal this Fall

Make your way to Riley’s Apple Farm. Riley’s Apple Farm features Glen Seedling, Gravenstein, Red Delicious, Early Fujis, McIntosh, Jonathan, Spartan, Rome apples, and more. Of course, weekends are particularly fun here, where visitors are treated to apple cider pressing, tomahawk tossing, and archery. Contact Riley’s for available u-pick times. 

Stone Soup Farm & Heritage Orchard

Stone Soup Farm & Heritage Orchard is a family-owned farm that features 130-year-old heirloom apple orchards. The farm uses organic growing methods and has made a dedication to sustainability and seasonality. Visitors are given a 10-minute tour where they will learn of the farm’s history and unique approach to farming. Likewise, events and workshops on various topics are offered as well as a gift shop, wine tastings, and wonderful local delicacies. Contact Stone Soup for available u-pick times. 

Apple picking time is here, get out and enjoy.

Luxury Fall Home Decor Trends | Home Tips

Fall, with its golden hues, crisp air, and cozy vibes, has always been a muse for interior designers. However, when it comes to luxury homes, the transition into autumn is not just about adding a pumpkin or two; it’s about melding opulence with the season’s warmth. Let’s dive deep into this year’s luxury fall home decor trends and discover how they can elevate the ambiance of a high-end dwelling.

1. Rich, Warm Hues:

Move over, cool summer tones; autumn is all about warmth. Think deep burgundies, rich browns, burnt oranges, and muted golds. These colors not only capture the essence of fall but also add a touch of elegance and sophistication when incorporated through plush upholstery, statement rugs, or fine wall art.

2. Velvet Everything:

Velvet has made a grand re-entry into the luxury decor scene. Its plush, soft texture complements fall perfectly. Imagine sinking into a deep velvet sofa or chair with a hot beverage in hand. Whether it’s a luxe velvet cushion or a grand sofa, this material is an autumn must-have.

3. Statement Fireplaces:

A fireplace, beyond its functional warmth, serves as a focal point in many luxury homes. Fall is the perfect time to revamp or highlight this feature. Opt for grand mantels, ornate designs, or innovative fire art installations that warm not only the room but also the heart.

4. Artisanal Craftsmanship:

Handcrafted decor pieces, from bespoke wooden furniture to hand-blown glass vases, are in vogue. These unique, one-of-a-kind items add character to a luxury home, giving it a personal touch and a story to tell.

5. Layered Textures:

Mix and match different textures to create a cozy yet opulent ambiance. Pair a sleek leather couch with a soft cashmere throw or a glossy marble table with matte pottery. These contrasting textures evoke depth and intrigue.

6. Nature-Inspired Decor:

This fall, designers are drawing inspiration directly from nature. Incorporate dried floral arrangements, pinecone centerpieces, or even artistic installations that mimic the changing foliage outside.

7. Metallic Accents:

While metallics are a year-round luxury trend, this fall, it’s all about muted, matte finishes. Think aged brass, darkened silver, or frosted gold. These tones bring a touch of glamour without being overly flashy, harmoniously fitting the autumnal mood.

8. Ambient Lighting:

As the days grow shorter, the need for strategic lighting becomes paramount. Luxury homes are opting for adjustable, layered lighting schemes that offer both functionality and ambiance. Consider adding sophisticated floor lamps, pendant lights with dimmers, or even candles in ornate holders.

9. Timeless Antiques:

While contemporary design elements are essential, there’s something undeniably charming about adding a touch of the past. Vintage trunks, classic paintings, or age-old sculptures can infuse history and nostalgia into modern settings.

10. Spa-Like Bath Retreat:

As the temperatures drop, there’s an increasing desire for comfort and relaxation. Transform bathrooms into spa-like sanctuaries using heated floors, deep soaking tubs, and earth-toned accessories.

In conclusion, this fall, luxury home decor is all about combining the heartwarming essence of the season with opulent, sophisticated touches. By incorporating these trends, one can ensure their home is not only stylish but also a cozy haven ready for the cooler months ahead.

Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending October 7, 2023

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Job growth unexpectedly surged in September – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 336,000 new full-time jobs were added in September. That was almost double the 170,000 new jobs that economists expected. The unemployment rate increased to 3.8% in September, up from 3.5% in August, its lowest level in almost 60 years, as more workers entered the workforce. Average hourly wages increased 4.2% year-over-year, down from 4.4% the previous five months.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 33,407.58, up 0.3% from 33.507.50 last week. It is up 0.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,308.54, up 0.2% from 4,298.05 last week. It is up 12.2% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,431.34 up 1.6% from 13,219.22 last week. It is up 28.3% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.78% up from 4.59% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.95% up from 4.73% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of October 5, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.49%, up from 7.31% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.78% up from 6.72% last week.

Have a great weekend!

From Microsoft Updates to the New Leica and more! | Tech News

Stay connected in the world of technology and media. Our weekly round-up of the latest tech news gives you a bite-size version of today’s headlines. From Microsoft Updates to the New Leica and more, we have you covered!

Samsung’s SmartTag2: Smaller and Longer-lasting

Samsung has unveiled its second-generation locator device, the SmartTag2, at its Developer Conference. This updated version boasts longer battery life, enhanced durability in various conditions, and improved Bluetooth Low Energy signal penetration for easier tracking, even in underground settings. The SmartTag2 is also smaller and has a remarkable battery life of up to 700 days, surpassing its predecessor and Apple’s AirTags. It features an IP67 rating for resilience against wet and dusty conditions and comes with a larger keyring for added durability. Samsung has also revamped its SmartThings Find app for improved usability. The SmartTag2 will be available globally starting October 10th, with pricing yet to be revealed.

Sony’s High-Bitrate Movie Service Now Accessible on PS5 and PS4

Sony is introducing its movie streaming service, previously known as Bravia Core and now rebranded as Sony Pictures Core, to PlayStation consoles like PS5 and PS4. This service allows users to buy or rent up to 2,000 movies directly from their consoles, including blockbuster hits like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Uncharted. Sony Pictures Core offers high video fidelity with Pure Stream, streaming HDR movies at up to 80Mbps, significantly higher than other streaming platforms. It also boasts the largest collection of IMAX Enhanced films and offers early access to select Sony Pictures films. PlayStation Plus Premium and Deluxe members can access a curated catalog of up to 100 movies from the Sony Pictures library for free. This service is available today in 23 markets, with the rebranding set to occur next year on other platforms.

After Seven Years, Leica Unveils the Leica Sofort 2 Instant Film Camera

Leica has announced the long-awaited sequel to its Leica Sofort instant film camera, the Leica Sofort 2, priced at $389 and set to be available on November 9th. This upgraded model now operates as a hybrid instant camera, featuring a 1/5-inch digital sensor, allowing users to select the photos they wish to print. It also supports printing photos taken with smartphones. The camera offers USB-C support, multiple lenses, and a lever for photo printing, as well as new color options. Leica aims to compete with Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Evo with this stylish instant film camera, offering additional features like printing photos from other Leica cameras via the FOTOS companion app.

Adobe Teases Revolutionary AI Photo Editing Tool Set to Transform Its Products

Adobe is gearing up to unveil an AI-powered photo editing tool known as Project Stardust at the upcoming Adobe Max event. This innovative tool is designed to simplify image manipulation for users without prior editing experience. It features an “object-aware editing engine” that automatically identifies and selects objects within photos, allowing for easy movement, deletion, or manipulation. Project Stardust also includes a “Contextual Task Bar” that can detect the next steps in the design process and offers quick editing options. This tool showcases generative AI capabilities, such as replacing objects or filling spaces with AI-generated content. Adobe’s Project Stardust promises to revolutionize photo editing by making it more accessible and efficient.

Microsoft Releases Faster and Redesigned Teams App for Windows and Mac

Microsoft has released an upgraded version of its Microsoft Teams chat client for Windows and Mac users. This revamped version offers significant improvements, with up to two times faster performance. The improvements are a result of Microsoft transitioning from Electron foundations to Edge WebView2 technology. The new Teams client also achieves feature parity with the previous version. Likewise it will be the platform for future feature releases, making upgrading straightforward for users. Classic Teams users will be automatically upgraded to the new version in the coming months.

Google Unveils Additional Colors and Enhanced Features for Pixel Buds Pro Earbuds

Google is introducing new colors, blue and porcelain, for its Pixel Buds Pro noise-canceling earbuds. Likewise this aligns the devices with Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices. The company has also announced several software features, including conversation detection. Additionally, improvements in voice call quality are expected with support for Bluetooth Super Wideband. This also includes Google’s Clear Calling voice enhancement technology. Users will receive listening stats to monitor their hearing health and notifications to lower the volume if needed. A low-latency mode for gaming will also be automatically activated in compatible games. 

Weekend Events | October 6 – October 8

Dive into fall fun this weekend with our weekly round-up of local events. From Dine L.A. to outdoor festivals and more, there is something for everyone. Read on below for the top events happening October 6  through October 8 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 6 – October 8 

Dine L.A.

When: October 6 – October 20

Where: Various Locations

What: Summer has come to an end, and the “eat-your-feelings” season is upon us. It’s time to save some money with DineLA, the bi-annual two-week dining event that’s back for its autumn edition. You can enjoy prix fixe menus at numerous restaurants, with options for both takeout and dine-in, starting as low as $15 for lunch and $25 for dinner.

Hadestown

When: Until October 15

Where: Downtown LA

What: Anaïs Mitchell’s transporting musical makes a hit from a myth. Catch the Broadway favorite before its gone!

Los Angeles Folk Festival

When: October 7 – October 8

Where: Hollywood
What: The Milk Carton Kids take center stage as both headliners and curators for this two-day folk festival at the Ford. The event features performances by Waxahatchee, Sierra Ferrell, Valerie June, Davíd Garza & Freaklórico, Haley Heynderickx, Tré Burt, and Willie Watson.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events |  October 6 – October 8 

Made in L.A.

When: September 30 – December 31

Where: Westwood

What: The Hammer Museum’s impressive series of biennial exhibitions continually raises the bar by shining a spotlight on emerging and often overlooked Los Angeles artists, and the sixth installment appears to be no different. Titled “Acts of Living,” this year’s exhibition centers around the idea that art is an integral part of our everyday lives. It presents a diverse collection of works, blending new commissions with historical pieces from 39 talented and prolific artists such as Marcel Alcalá, Sula Bermúdez-Silverman, Jibz Cameron, and many more.

Oogie Boogie Bash

When: Until October 31 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Look who’s back! The “Nightmare Before Christmas” infamous bug-filled sack is reprising its role for the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland. Join this exclusive after-hours event with special tickets at Disney California Adventure Park this Halloween season.

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day

When: October 7

Where: The Getty

What: Leading up to Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the Getty will host a series of complimentary workshops focusing on Mesoamerican flavors and customs, as well as native Californian plants, accompanied by musical performances.

San Fernando Valley Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 6 – October 8 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 7 – October 31

Where: Universal Studios

What: Spooky season is creeping in, whether we’re ready for it or not. The most evident indicator? Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights has arrived, featuring haunted houses inspired by titles like The Last of Us, Stranger Things, Evil Dead Rise, The Purge, The Exorcist: Believer, and beyond.

CicLAmini: North Hollywood

When: September 17 – December 3

Where: North Hollywood

What: Cycle through a mile of Lankershim Boulevard during this compact version of the vehicle-free, bicycle-centric festival.

VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved Museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum.

Conejo Valley Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 6 – October 8 

Nights of the Jack

When: September 29 – October 31

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Stroll through the picturesque King Gillette Ranch as this hidden gem in the Santa Monica Mountains comes alive with the warm glow of thousands of intricately hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns. Nights of the Jack is back for another year, offering a one-mile walking trail experience, complete with delicious food trucks and a “Spookeasy” for added excitement. In 2023, Nights of the Jack has introduced new features to enhance the experience, including an augmented reality scavenger hunt along the trail, a captivating Día de Los Muertos display, stunning lantern art, and a special section known as “the Enchanted Forest.”

Reign of Terror Haunted House

When: September 29 – November 4 

Where: Janss Marketplace

What: Janss Marketplace has revealed the dates and ticket sales launch for the 17-night Reign of Terror Haunted House, a highly acclaimed immersive haunt experience in the U.S. Celebrating its 24th season, Reign of Terror opens its doors on September 24th at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks, offering 138 unique rooms and 10 interconnected, spine-chilling attractions, spanning over 28,000 sq ft of floor space, all revamped and improved for 2023.

Ventura Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show

When: October 6 – October 8 

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds

What: The 51st Annual Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show is planned for October 6-8, 2023 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Family-owned and operated, the beloved tradition returns with the nation’s finest artists and crafters eager to showcase their newest creations for a one-of-kind shopping experience unlike any other.

The Best Restaurants for a Date Night Around Town | LA Eats

When it comes to dining out with your significant other, where you venture is what is most important. Rather than spend the time to find someplace new, we have you covered! In this week’s blog, we’re sharing the best restaurants for a date night around town.

LOS ANGELES
Olivetta

Date night
Location:
9010 Melrose Ave | West Hollywood

Since opening Olivetta has remained at the top of the list of best restaurants in WeHo. It should come as no surprise that it’s also perfect for a date night. Enjoy fine cooking like pasta, chops, and more from the acclaimed Michael Fiorelli.

Angelini Osteria

Location: 7313 Beverly Blvd | Los Angeles 

A true legend in LA that has given rise to numerous chefs, Angelini Osteria is magnifico. With an array of fine dining options to choose from, it’s the perfect place for a date night in LA. Indulge in dishes like the sea urchin linguine or lasagne verde as your top entree options.

Bavel


Location:
500 Mateo St | Los Angeles

While Bavel remains tough to get a reservation at, it’s certainly worth planning a date night ahead of time for. Located in the ultra-hip Arts District, the middle eastern-leaning eatery will invigorate your taste buds.


WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES

The Arthur J


Location:
903 Manhattan Ave | Manhattan Beach

Don’t judge a book by its cover or size. Arthur J, while on the smaller side of dining sports, serves up a vast menu of options. With a delicious array of high-quality food, this steakhouse makes for the perfect date night in Manhattan Beach. 

Pasjoli


Location:
2732 Main St | Santa Monica

One of the best restaurants in Santa Monica, Pasjoli offers delicious upscale French cooking. Enjoy culinary dishes from fine dining chef Dave Beran and truly amazing service. For a date night treat and quality french fare, look no further.  

 

Michael’s on Naples Ristorante


Location:
5620 2nd St | Long Beach

Offering award-winning Italian food and a vibrant rooftop is Lon Beach’s Michaels on Naples Restorante. The eatery not only serves as the perfect date night spot in LB but is one of the best places for great views. 


SAN FERNANDO VALLEY
Talesai


Location:
11744 Ventura Blvd | Studio City

Enjoy retro-cool in an upscale setting for a fresh take on your traditional date night. Talesai has been a favorite for the SFV for over two decades. With delicious Thai food from the Yenbamroong family, it can be easy to see why this is the case. 

 

Le Sanglier


Location:
5522 Crebs Ave. | Tarzana

A true hidden gem in Tarzana, Le Sanglier has been enchanting the community for over 4o years. The French restaurant offers a beautiful candle-laden dining room with a wonderful menu of cuisine options. 


CONEJO VALLEY

Moqueca Brazilian Restaurant


Location:
1610 Thousand Oaks Blvd | Thousand Oaks

When it comes to Brazilian food, Moqueca has remained one of SoCal’s best. A romantic spit with traditional food from the Bahia region, Moqueca makes for a great date night. Enjoy their namesake seafood stew with a round of caipirinhas for a delicious meal option. 

 

Nonna


Location:
951 S Westlake Blvd #102 | Westlake Village

Conejo Valley has no shortage of Italian restaurants but no date list would be complete without Nonna. From handmade pasta like the strozzapreti to the pacheri with roasted eggplants, you’ll love it all. The owners hail from Tuscany, so you can expect amazing classic dishes from the region that will not disappoint.

 

Moody Rooster


Location:
2891 Agoura Rd | Westlake Village

Don’t let location deter you from Chef Collin Crannell’s farm-to-table restaurant. Moody Rooster may be in the middle of a shopping center but it’s at the top of our list for great date night spots. Enjoy a small and truly delicious seasonal menu made with sustainable ingredients. Our personal favorite is the crispy gnocchi with harissa carrots, and also just everything on the menu. 

Monthly Economic Update | Month Ending September 30, 2023

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Stock markets dropped and interest rates moved higher in September – Recent data released this month has indicated that inflation may be picking back up. Treasury bond yields rose to their highest levels since 2007 and mortgage rates hit a 23-year high in September. The CPI (Consumer Price Index), the broadest measure of inflation, rose for the second straight month. It had dropped every month for a year from a high of 9.1% in June 2022 to 3% in June of 2023. That streak ended in July when the CPI increased to 3.2%. It increased again to 3.7% in August. The Fed has increased interest rates over the past year and a half to combat inflation. They had hoped that these increases would slow the economy, curtail consumer spending, and reduce the rate of inflation. Fed Chairman Powell left rates unchanged in September but singled that there would be another rate increase this year. He also reiterated his commitment to bringing inflation down to the Fed’s 2% target. The latest jobless claims, people going on unemployment for the first time, dropped to the lowest level of the year. The Fed has also been trying to get the unemployment rate up, because a shortage in labor pushes wages up and encourages consumer spending, which are both inflationary. Economists are waiting for the September jobs report which will be released next Friday. That will signal how companies are responding to higher borrowing costs which so far have not discouraged many from cutting back on the number of employees. The U.S. credit rating downgrade and the massive amount of debt that needs to be financed has caused an oversupply of treasury bond sales which has also contributed to higher interest rates.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 33,507.50, down 3.5% from 34,721.91 on August 30. It is up 1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 4,298.05, down 4.6% from 4,507.66 last month. It is up 12% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 13,219.92, down 5.8% from 14,034.97 last month. It is up 26.2% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 4.59%, up from 4.09% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.73%, from 4.20% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields. Both the 10-year and 30-year closed the month about .25% below their highest levels for the month after dropping in the last week of the month.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of September 28, 2023, for the most popular loan products were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.31%, up from 7.18% at the end of August. The 15-year fixed was 6.72%, up from 6.11% at the end of August.

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.04 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in August, down 15.3% from an annualized rate of 4.77 million in August 2022. The median price for a home in the U.S. in August was $407,100, up 3.9% from $391,700 last August. There was a 3.3- month supply of homes for sale in August, up from a 3.2-month supply last August. First-time buyers accounted for 29% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 16% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 254,740 on a seasonally adjusted annualized basis in August, down 5.3% month-over-month from July and down 19% from a revised 314,270 annualized sales pace last August. It should be noted that last August the number of sales were down about 20% from August 2021 making the number of sales about 40% lower than they were in 2021. August marked the eleventh straight month on sales dropping under 300,000 on an annualized basis. Year-to-date the number of homes sold was down 29.2% from the first eight months of 2022. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $859,800, up 3.3% from July, and up 3.3% from $834,740 a year ago. There was a 2.4-month supply of single-family homes for sale in August, down from a 2.8-month supply one year ago.

The graph below has sales data for Southern California by region. This was compiled by the California Association of Real Estate.

The Best Plants for Your Fall Garden | Home Tips

With Autumn around the corner, it’s a great time to add a touch of fall to your garden. That’s why we’re sharing our favorite fall plants to accompany the season. Read on below for a list of garden delights.

HELENIUM

Heleniums are simple plants to grow and are a top choice for any fall garden, whether it’s in the planning stages or already in blossom. These lovely flowers range from gold, red, and brown and come in a wide range of styles and sizes. Because of these unique traits, Heleniums are more than capable of being the solo plant species in a garden, as it provides a world of interest all on its own, with not one bed identical to another.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS

As the meaning of its name implies, the “golden flower” chrysanthemums originally came only as gold, but now they’re found in a variety of colors, from the most vibrant reds to the softest lavenders. Chrysanthemums are amazing fall plants for any garden because of their balance of youth and maturity and limitless possibilities of design.

MARIGOLD

Marigolds are popular garden plants because of their rich blends of yellow to orange and long-lasting bloom. Active during spring, summer, and fall, these easy-to-grow flowers offer a bright welcome to many companion flowers, so pairing has little to no hassle. Marigolds also give the overall appearance of any garden an attractive pop that can light up your day.

PURPLE FOUNTAIN GRASS

The purple fountain grass is popular for its beauty and versatility as a centerpiece or sophisticated border. The unique blend of white and purple and the natural, elegant pose of this plant make it a beautiful accompaniment to fall gardens of many arrangements. The plumes, or feathery seeds at the tips of the flowerheads, can also be used for dried flower arrangements for your home.

SHRUB ROSE

Shrub roses are hardy fall plants with long-lasting times of bloom and have a natural resistance to disease! Able to be planted from spring to fall, these plants are easy to care for. They also require little hassle or later nurturing. Their color ranges from humble white to eye-catching purple. This makes the garden arrangement a breeze when pairing with your other plants.

PANSY

Pansies are a classic spring and fall plant because of their easy care and variety of colors. These charming flowers are hardier than they appear, able to last up to eight months if planted in the fall. This means you’ll have a colorful array of petals all throughout fall, winter, and spring to bring an endless light to your garden.

 

Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending September 30, 2023

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Stock markets – Interest rates rose further this week. Treasury bond yields rose to their highest levels since 2007 and mortgage rates hit a 23-year high on Wednesday. They backed off slightly on Thursday and Friday. As reported last week there has been recent data suggesting that the economy and consumer spending has heated up. Inflation has ticked up over the last two months after falling steadily every month since June. The U.S. credit rating downgrade and the massive amount of debt that needs to be financed has caused an oversupply of treasury bond sales which has contributed to higher interest rates. Friday, the Producer Consumption Expenditure Index, a key gauge of inflation, came in slightly better than expected, and rates settled slightly. Everyone is waiting for the release of the September job report next Friday. The Fed is committed to slowing hiring as the shortage in labor has pushed up wages and encouraged consumer spending which is inflationary. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 33,507.50, down 1.3% from 33.963.84 last week. It is up 1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,298.05, down 0.5% from 4,320.08 last week. It is up 12% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,219.32, almost unchanged from 13,211.81 last week. It is up 26.2% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.59%, up from 4.44% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.73%, up from 4.53% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of September 28, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.31%, up from 7.19% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.72%, up from 6.54% last week.

Have a great weekend!