Economic highlights this week – It was a volatile week on Wall Street, bond markets, and mortgage markets. Stocks ended the week sharply lower despite rebounding slightly on Friday. The volatility centered around the Trump Administration’s tariffs. A 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico and a 20% tariff on imports from China went into effect on Tuesday. On Wednesday some of the tariffs, like automobiles from Canada, the U.S.’s largest trading partner were postponed for a month. There were also comments from Treasury Sectary, Scott Bessent, and others in the administration that suggested that these tariffs would not last long while comments from President Trump suggested that more tariffs are coming. All in all, it was a confusing week that left investors and corporations uncertain on what was ahead. It is difficult for businesses to plan when they do not know what the future holds for tariffs. Uncertainty caused fear and the stock markets dropped sharply this week. Bond yields and mortgage rates also fluctuated this week as investors wondered if the tariffs could cause a recession which would raise the unemployment rate, slow the economy, curtail consumer spending, and lower inflation, or if tariffs would just make everything more expensive and boost inflation.
151,000 new jobs were added in February – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 151,000 new jobs were added in February, up from a revised 125,000 new jobs added in January. While that was below the 160,000 economists had forecasted, the government shed 10,000 jobs, so 161,000 non-government jobs were added. The unemployment rate ticked up to 4.1%, from 4% in January. It was 4.1% in December. Average hourly wages increased 4% in February from one year ago, down slightly from a 4.1% annual increase in January. Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,801.72, down 2.4% from 43,840.91 last week. It is up 0.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,710.20, down 4.1% from 5,954.50 last week. The S&P is down 2.9% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,196.22, down 3.5% from 18,847.28 last week. It is down 6.8% year-to-date. U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.32%, up from 4.24% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.62%, up from 4.51% 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 March 6, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.63%, down from 6.76% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.79%, down from 5.94% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year Have a Great Weekend! |
Mortgage Rate Update | March 6, 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 March 6, 2025, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.63%, down from 6.76% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.79%, down from 5.94% 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.
From Google’s AI Updates to the New MacBook Air and More! | Tech News
From Google’s AI search updates to Apple’s latest MacBook Air, the tech world is buzzing with new innovations and product launches. We’ve got all the details on these stories and more—check out what’s happening across the web in this week’s Tech News blog!
Google Expands AI Search with New AI Mode
Google is doubling down on AI-powered search, expanding AI Overviews to more queries and rolling out AI Mode, a chatbot-driven search experience similar to ChatGPT Search. Currently in testing for Google One AI Premium subscribers, AI Mode delivers AI-generated answers with supporting links, shifting how users interact with search results. While some worry Google is moving away from traditional web links, the company insists AI tools enhance user experience and drive engagement. As Gemini 2.0 powers these updates, Google Search is evolving rapidly—blurring the line between search engine and AI assistant.
Delta Backs JetZero’s Blended-Wing Aircraft for Greener Air Travel
Delta Air Lines is partnering with JetZero, a Long Beach-based startup developing a blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft designed to cut fuel consumption, emissions, and noise. While Delta isn’t investing capital, it will provide operational expertise through its Sustainable Skies Lab, aiming for a 2027 test flight. JetZero claims its BWB design can reduce emissions by up to 50% while remaining compatible with sustainable aviation fuel. With additional backing from the U.S. Air Force and Northrop Grumman, this project could push the aviation industry closer to a more sustainable future.
YouTube Expands Premium Lite Subscription to the U.S.
YouTube is rolling out its Premium Lite subscription in the U.S. for $7.99/month. The new plan offers an ad-free experience on most videos—except for music content. Unlike the $13.99 YouTube Premium plan, this tier does not include offline downloads or background playback. The service, which has been in testing since 2021, will also expand to Thailand, Germany, and Australia in the coming weeks, with more countries to follow later this year.
Dyson’s Supersonic r Hairdryer Now Available to Consumers
After a year of exclusivity for salons and stylists, Dyson’s Supersonic r hairdryer will be available to all U.S. consumers starting tomorrow, with a European release in April. Priced at $569.99, the smaller, lighter design offers better maneuverability, magnetic styling attachments, and automatic heat adjustments via RFID. The consumer version comes in ceramic pink and jasper plum, while a new copper and violet pro model arrives this summer.
Apple Unveils M4 MacBook Air with Lower Price & New Color
Apple has refreshed the MacBook Air with an M4 chip, a new sky blue color, and a lower starting price. At $999 for the 13-inch and $1,199 for the 15-inch, users can experience the new MacBook Air. Likewise, the updated MacBook will also come equipped with Apple’s latest updates. Available for order now and launching March 12, both MacBook models support two external displays, feature a 12MP Center Stage webcam, and offer configurations up to 32GB RAM and 2TB storage. While the MacBook design remains unchanged, the price drop makes this update especially noteworthy.
Hasbro Unveils Monopoly App Banking—A Digital Take on the Classic Game
Hasbro is launching Monopoly App Banking, a new version of the classic board game that replaces cash and the banker with a mobile app to manage transactions. Set to release in August 2025 for $24.99, this digital twist aims to speed up gameplay and reduce cheating, though it eliminates Monopoly’s traditional math-based learning. The board features kid-friendly properties like a rocket launch pad, VR roller coaster, and dinosaur park, while mini-games in the app add interactive perks to keep younger players engaged.
Weekend Events | March 7 – March 9
Looking for the best local events to enjoy with the family? This weekend is packed with kid-friendly activities, from hands-on science exhibits to outdoor festivals and live performances. Whether you’re in the mood for interactive learning, community celebrations, or just a fun day out, there’s something for everyone. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from March 7 through March 9!
Los Angeles Weekend Events | March 7 – March 9
First Fridays at the Natural History Museum
When: March 7 – June 6
Where: Natural History Museum | Los Angeles
What: Experience a unique night at the Natural History Museum’s First Fridays, where music, science, and art collide. From March to June, enjoy KCRW-curated DJs, live performances, guided tours, and interactive exhibits after hours. This week’s “Healing Sounds” edition features performances by VÉRITÉ and Kelcey Ayer, plus immersive sound baths in the Sensory Lounge.
ACB Jazz + Homecoming
When: March 7 – March 29
Where: Downtown LA
What: American Contemporary Ballet debuts two dynamic shows this month—Jazz, an intimate, sultry tribute to underground jazz clubs, and Homecoming, a high-energy ballet inspired by a high school dance with cheerleaders and a marching band. Both productions, choreographed by Lincoln Jones, feature live music and conclude with an artist reception.
Tasting Color: The Indigo Edition
When: March 7 – March 8
Where: The Academy Musuem
What: Tasting Color returns with an indigo-themed dining experience where menu and décor are inspired by a single hue. Curated by Seven Senses, this immersive sensorial dinner series features local artists, artisans, and a monochromatic menu by chef Tracy Tober. Dress in deep blue and prepare for a one-of-a-kind culinary event in Silver Lake.
Westside and Beach Communities | March 7 – March 9
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
When: February 28 – April 8
Where: Disney California Adventure | Anaheim
What: Disneyland’s already the happiest place on earth, and with the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival running for nearly two months, it’s even better. Enjoy culinary marketplaces featuring themes like garlic, local breweries, peppers, and food-truck fare. Don’t forget to check out the rides, including the return of the California-themed version of Soarin’ for this special event.
Holi on the Beach
When: March 8
Where: Redondo Beach
What: Celebrate spring with a vibrant Festival of Colors at Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach. Embrace the tradition by tossing colorful powder while enjoying the ocean breeze—just don’t wear anything you want to keep pristine! This lively event also supports the L.A. chapter of the Association for India’s Development, funding grassroots projects in India.
Nowruz Celebration
When: March 9
Where: Westwood
What: Celebrate Nowruz with the Farhang Foundation at one of the world’s largest Iranian New Year festivals. This free outdoor event at UCLA’s Dickson Court features live music, dance, storytelling, a puppet show, a tea house, and a traditional Haft-sin display. With past attendance reaching 25,000, it’s a must-see spring celebration—plus, don’t miss the ticketed concert at Royce Hall later that evening.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | March 7 – March 9
Intro to California Native Plant Garden Design with Tim Becker
When: March 7
Where: Theodore Payne Foundation
What: Embrace the season of green by learning the basics of landscape design with native plants in this introductory class! Gain insight into mapping, irrigation, lighting, and space planning to create a thriving home or community garden. Perfect for beginners, this class is led by Tim Becker, Director of Horticulture at the Theodore Payne Foundation, with over 15 years of experience. Plus, gift a class to the garden enthusiast in your life—just add their name at checkout!
Sunshine Makers Market
When: March 8
Where: Shops at Sportsmens Lodge
What: Spend a joyful day browsing incredible local makers, artists, and small businesses at Studio City’s favorite shopping destination—The Shops at Sportsmen’s Lodge! Find unique holiday gifts, soak in the gorgeous setting, and enjoy a festive atmosphere. Grab your bestie or your boo and make it a perfect day out supporting local creatives!
The Late Late Late show
When: March 9
Where: The Glendale Room | Glendale
What: Join standup comedian and content creator Kate Lav (Six Feet Above, Parallel Play) and writer-director Tahir (King of the Hill reboot) for a night of laughs in Los Angeles. Enjoy free 90-minute parking at the adjacent City Parking Structure.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | March 7 – March 9
77th Annual Santa Barbara International Orchid Show
When: March 7 – March 9
Where: Earl Warren Showgrounds
What: Experience one of the largest and longest-running orchid shows in the U.S. as the Santa Barbara International Orchid Show returns to Earl Warren Showgrounds from March 7-9, 2025. Open 9 AM – 5 PM daily, the event showcases stunning orchid displays and educational exhibits. Get tickets in advance and celebrate the beauty of orchids at this non-profit event!
A&S STEAM Carnival at CSU Channel Islands
When: March 8
Where: California State University Channel Islands | Camarillo
What: Families are invited to CSU Channel Islands’ STEAM Carnival on Saturday, March 8, from 1–5 PM at the South Quad, featuring 70+ interactive activities from CSUCI programs and local partners like MOXI, Santa Barbara Zoo, and kidSTREAM. Formerly the Science Carnival, this expanded event now welcomes middle and high school students, offering experiences like dinosaur bones, gold electroplating, and dissections, plus college info sessions and campus tours. With new lab openings and community partners, this free event continues to spark curiosity through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math!
Conejo Valley Community Concert & Jazz Bands
When: March 1 – March 2
Where: Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Thousand Oaks
What: Enjoy an afternoon of live music at the Conejo Valley Community Concert & Jazz Bands Winter Performance on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 4:00 PM. Led by Bob Hackett, the concert will take place at the Agoura High School PAEC in Agoura Hills and is free to the public. For more information, call (818) 597-7361.
Where to Find the Best Cakes Around Town | L.A. Eats
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, Los Angeles is home to some of the most incredible cakes you’ll ever taste. From delicate European-inspired confections to nostalgic slices of Americana, these bakeries and restaurants are serving up sweet perfection. Here’s where to find the best cakes in LA, with a must-try recommendation from each spot.
Sweet Laurel Bakery – Vanilla Maple Cake
Location: 15279 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90272
Sweet Laurel Bakery has been a haven for the gluten-free and dairy-free crowd since its Pacific Palisades storefront opened in 2018. Their cakes, which are also free of refined sugars, are perfect for kids and those with allergen sensitivities. The vanilla maple cake is a standout—an almond flour delight topped with dreamy maple buttercream. Whether you’re ordering a whole cake or stopping in for a slice, this is a guilt-free indulgence you won’t want to miss.
Copenhagen Pastry – Princess Cake
Location: 11113 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
A taste of Denmark in Culver City, Copenhagen Pastry is known for its flaky, jam-filled Danish treats and stunning cakes. The Princess Cake, a Swedish classic, features layers of whipped cream, raspberry jam, and custard, all wrapped in pale green marzipan. It’s the perfect pairing for a morning or afternoon coffee.
Cipriani – Vanilla Meringue Cake
Location: 1224 Beverwil Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90035
After a luxurious meal at Cipriani, resist the urge to skip dessert—the four-layer vanilla meringue cake is an absolute must. More meringue than cake, this delicacy offers silky layers with a subtle vanilla essence and a lightly torched top reminiscent of crème brûlée. Order one slice per two people, or prepare to battle over the last bite.
Stella – Cassata Siciliana
Location: 8899 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90048
At Stella in West Hollywood, pastry chef Domenico Giammarella presents an elegant take on the traditional Sicilian cassata. This pale green, trifle-like dessert features layers of pistachios, ricotta, and chocolate for a rich yet balanced finish to any meal.
Sweet Lady Jane – Triple Berry Cake
Location: 8360 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Sweet Lady Jane’s legendary Triple Berry Cake has stood the test of time. This three-layer yellow butter cake is filled with whipped cream and fresh berries, making it a refreshing and lightly sweet treat. After briefly closing in 2023, the bakery returned stronger than ever in 2024, ensuring that this LA classic remains available for years to come.
Carlitos Gardel – Postre Gardel
Location: 7963 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
An Argentine steakhouse might not be the first place you’d think of for cake, but Carlitos Gardel’s Postre Gardel is worth saving room for. Layers of genoise sponge cake, ricotta, peaches, and fluffy meringue are topped with house-made dulce de leche, creating a perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
Cake Monkey Bakery – Mini Layer Cakes
Location: 7807 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Cake Monkey specializes in individually sized nostalgic treats with a gourmet twist. Try their mini carrot cake with caramel cream cheese frosting or their funfetti-style vanilla cake with rainbow sprinkles and Tahitian vanilla buttercream for a delightful bite-sized indulgence.
Sweet Red Peach – Red Velvet Cake

Location: 1035 S Prairie Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301
For some of the best red velvet cake in LA, head to Sweet Red Peach in Inglewood. Owner Karolyn Plummer’s moist, cream cheese-frosted creation is so popular that lines form daily. Whether you opt for the classic red or the striking blue variation, you won’t be disappointed.
République – Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake
Location: 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
If you’re a chocolate lover, République’s salted caramel chocolate cake is a dream come true. Layers of rich chocolate cake are sandwiched with chocolate-caramel ganache and finished with a generous drizzle of salted caramel for an indulgent treat.
King’s Hawaiian Bakery – Paradise Cake
Location: 2808 Sepulveda Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505
Bring the taste of Hawaii to LA with King’s Hawaiian Bakery’s Paradise Cake. This tropical masterpiece features three layers of chiffon cake infused with guava, passion fruit, and lime, all topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
Cobblers Cakes & Kream – Carrot Cake
Location: 2323 W Manchester Blvd # B | Inglewood
Cobblers Cakes & Kream’s carrot cake is incredibly moist, with just the right amount of spice. Each bite blends shredded carrots, raisins, and walnuts, into a perfectly textured slice that demands a long fork to capture every morsel.
Guelaguetza – Tres Leches Cake
Location: 3014 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Guelaguetza’s tres leches cake is a standout among LA’s many offerings. Completely drenched yet perfectly balanced, this rich, creamy delight is topped with buttercream, fresh fruit, and delicate floral accents.
Proof Bakery – Seasonal Cake Specials
Location: 3156 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039
This worker-owned cooperative bakery in Atwater Village offers seasonal cakes, from lemon chiffon with fresh meringue to dark chocolate raspberry torte. Check their rotating menu for the latest flavor offerings.
Moonlark’s Dinette – Chocolate Cake
Location: 1060 Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Located in the Hoxton Hotel, Moonlark’s Dinette serves up a towering slice of chocolate cake alongside candied cherries and whipped cream. Best enjoyed with a grasshopper cocktail, Moonlark’s cake may make sharing a tough task.
27th Street Bakery – 7-Up Cake
Location: 2700 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90011
Since 1956, 27th Street Bakery has been a staple for sweet potato pie, but don’t overlook their 7-Up Cake. Made with soda instead of sugar, this lemony, buttery pound cake is irresistibly sticky and best enjoyed with the whole cake rather than just a slice.
Valerie Echo Park – Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake
Location: 1665 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Enjoy a tribute to a vintage classic! The Blum’s Coffee Crunch Cake at Valerie Confections takes coffee cake to new heights. Indulge in a light sponge cake layered with coffee whipped cream and crunchy honeycomb bits. A nostalgic, textural delight.
Quarter Sheets Pizza – Slab Cake
Location: 1305 Portia St, Los Angeles, CA 90026
At Quarter Sheets, pastry chef Hannah Ziskin’s ever-changing slab cakes are so in demand, they often sell out. Check their Instagram for the latest offerings and reserve your slice in advance.
Phoenix Bakery – Strawberry Whipped Cream Cake
Location: 969 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Since 1938, Phoenix Bakery has been serving up Chinese pastries and their famous fresh strawberry whipped cream cake. Light and fluffy with just the right amount of sweetness, this is a staple for LA celebrations.
Patisserie Bluejay – Mousse Cakes
Location: 160 E Duarte Rd, Arcadia, CA 91006
For a lighter, more delicate dessert, head to Patisserie Bluejay in Arcadia. Their mousse cakes come in flavors like mango yuzu, peach oolong, and more. Likewise this range offers a refined take on traditional cakes.
No matter what kind of cake you crave, LA has a perfect slice waiting for you.
Local Hidden Gems | Out & About
Los Angeles is a city filled with iconic landmarks and tourist attractions, but beyond the glitz and glamour lies a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s always something new and exciting to explore in LA. Here are the top 10 hidden gems in Los Angeles.
The Last Bookstore
Located in downtown LA, The Last Bookstore is definitely a hidden gem and haven for book lovers. This massive bookstore occupies a former bank building. Step inside for a diverse selection of new and used books, as well as vinyl records, art prints, and vintage clothing. The bookstore also hosts author events, live music performances, and other cultural events.
Angels Point
For breathtaking views of the downtown LA skyline, head to Angels Point in Elysian Park. This hidden gem is a popular spot for picnics and photo ops. Bonus, it is often less crowded than other popular viewpoints in the city.
Watts Towers
The Watts Towers are a must-see for art enthusiasts. This sculpture park, located in the Watts neighborhood, features 17 interconnected towers. The towers are made of steel and covered in colorful mosaic tiles, seashells, and glass. Italian immigrant Simon Rodia built thover a period of 33 years.
Griffith Observatory
While the Griffith Observatory is a well-known attraction, the views from the hiking trails surrounding the observatory are often overlooked. Hiking trails like the Mt. Hollywood Trail and the Griffith Observatory West Trail offer stunning views of the city and are perfect for a scenic workout.
Huntington Library
The Huntington Library, located in San Marino, is a hidden gem for history buffs and garden enthusiasts. The library features a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible and the first edition of Isaac Newton’s “Principia Mathematica.” The library’s botanical gardens feature over a dozen themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a desert garden.
Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building, located in downtown LA, is a stunning architectural landmark. The building’s ornate ironwork, intricate staircases, and soaring skylit atrium have been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including “Blade Runner” and “500 Days of Summer.”
Echo Park Lake
Echo Park Lake is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake, located in the Echo Park neighborhood, offers paddleboat rentals, walking paths, and plenty of green space for picnics and sunbathing. The lake is also home to a variety of birds and wildlife, including herons, turtles, and fish.
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
The Museum of Jurassic Technology, located in Culver City, is a quirky and eclectic museum that defies classification. The museum’s exhibits blend fact and fiction and include displays on everything from 19th-century Russian space dogs to the history of hair work.
The Hollywood Forever Cemetery
The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a hidden gem for film buffs and history enthusiasts. The cemetery, located in Hollywood, is the final resting place of many Hollywood legends, including Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, and Cecil B. DeMille. The cemetery also hosts movie screenings, concerts, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Your Spring Cleaning Guide | Home Tips
As spring arrives, luxury homeowners know the importance of maintaining an immaculate and inviting space. A well-executed spring cleaning not only enhances aesthetics but also preserves the value of high-end materials and furnishings. This room-by-room guide ensures every part of your home receives the attention it deserves.
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Grand Entryway & Living Areas
The entryway sets the tone for your home’s ambiance. Start by polishing marble or hardwood floors and deep-cleaning area rugs. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down crystal chandeliers, sconces, and any decorative glass features.
In living areas, refresh upholstered furniture with professional cleaning or fabric-friendly solutions. Dust bookshelves, cabinets, and high-end décor with a soft, lint-free cloth. Finally, replace winter-heavy throws and pillows with lighter, seasonal fabrics for a fresh look.
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Kitchen & Dining Room
Luxury kitchens require careful attention to detail. Start by deep-cleaning high-end appliances such as wine fridges, espresso machines, and smart ovens. Wipe down custom cabinetry with wood-safe cleaners and polish stone countertops with specialty solutions.
In the dining area, clean and condition wood or glass tables. Crystal stemware and silverware should be polished to maintain their brilliance. Consider rotating seasonal table settings and floral centerpieces to reflect the spring season.
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Bedrooms & Walk-In Closets
Spring is the perfect time to refresh bedding. Swap out winter duvets for lightweight linen or organic cotton sheets. Flip and rotate mattresses, and use a fabric refresher to maintain a crisp, clean scent.
In luxury walk-in closets, reorganize seasonal wardrobes. Store winter apparel in breathable garment bags and bring out spring ensembles. Wipe down custom shelving and vacuum plush carpeting to keep the space looking pristine.
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Bathrooms & Spa Spaces
Luxury bathrooms require deep cleaning to maintain their spa-like ambiance. Scrub marble or natural stone showers with pH-neutral cleaners to prevent damage. Polish brass or chrome fixtures, and refresh towels with crisp, white replacements.
For home spas, sanitize steam rooms, saunas, and hydrotherapy tubs. Use essential oil diffusers or fresh floral arrangements to create a calming, rejuvenating atmosphere.
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Home Office & Library
A well-maintained office enhances productivity. Dust bookshelves, leather-bound books, and artwork with a gentle brush or cloth. Clean glass-top desks and disinfect frequently touched areas such as keyboards and light switches.
If your home has a library, inspect valuable book collections for dust buildup or humidity damage. Consider incorporating natural light and fresh greenery to brighten the space for spring.
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Outdoor Spaces & Patios
Luxury homes often feature breathtaking outdoor spaces. Clean patio furniture, power-wash stone or tile surfaces, and refresh outdoor cushions with weather-resistant fabric treatments. Trim overgrown landscaping and update planters with seasonal flowers.
If you have a pool, schedule professional maintenance to ensure crystal-clear water. Check outdoor lighting and fire features to create an inviting ambiance for evening entertaining.
Final Touches for a Fresh Start
To complete your spring cleaning, introduce light, refreshing scents throughout your home. Scented candles, fresh-cut flowers, and linen sprays can elevate the overall experience.
Spring cleaning is more than just tidying up—it’s about restoring luxury and comfort. By following this guide, your home will be ready to embrace the new season with elegance and style.
Economic Update | Month Ending February 28, 2025
The economy – February marked some data driven changes in investor and consumer confidence. Since the election stock markets have risen steadily as investors felt that lower tax rates and less regulation would boost the economy and increase corporate profits. The economy has picked up. Stock markets reached historic highs, consumer confidence jumped, job creation has surged, and inflation picked up. For whatever reason, the economy has begun to show signs of slowing down in the last two weeks. On February 14 the January retail sales report was released. Retail sales dropped unexpectedly in January. On January 21, the most recent consumer confidence report showed that consumer confidence dropped significantly. On February 27 new unemployment claims jumped. Stock markets that reached historic highs in January have dropped sharply over the last two weeks and mortgage and bond rates have dropped as well.
Inflation – In August and September 2024 it appeared that the economy was slowing, and that inflation had come under control. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) had steadily worked its way down from its peak of 9.1% in June of 2022 to 2.4% in September 2024. It appeared that the Fed’s campaign to curb inflation had worked. Unfortunately, since the election the economy has picked up and the CPI rate has worked its way up. The latest reading showed that consumer prices were 3% higher in January than they were one year earlier. The Producer Price Index (PPI) has also increased. It measures wholesale prices that are often passed along to consumers. The latest PPI reading showed a 3.5% year-over-year increase. Its highest rate on 18 months. On Friday, February 28, 2025, the government released the Personal Expenditure Index (PPE), the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation. It showed that personal expenditures rose 2.5% year-over-year in January, down from 2.6% in December. That was another surprise. Experts excepted an increase after the CPI, and PPI had jumped. The graph below shows the CPI rate since 2021 Jobs – In 2023 and early 2024 the unemployment rate had ticked along at about 2.6%, its lowest rate since the 1960’s. There were many more jobs available than workers looking for jobs. This created a shortage of workers and wages were rising faster than the Fed was comfortable with. More people working and higher wages increase consumer spending which puts upward pressure on inflation. By August the unemployment rate had jumped to 4.2%. That is still considered full employment, but the shortage of workers had begun to level out. Wages had moderated and were rising at a healthy level. In recent months, the unemployment rate has begun to drop. It’s now at 4% and the shortage of workers has driven wages to their highest annual increases since early last year. Mortgage Interest rates and Bond yields – In September the 30-year mortgage rate had worked its way down to 6% from nearly 8% at their 2023 peak. We were even seeing days with rate locks under 6%. As described above the economy, stock market and jobs market picked up. The 30-year fixed rate was up to 7% in mid-February. It has dropped to 6.6% in the last ten days as signs of slowing in the economy have begun. The 10-year U.S. Treasury Bond Yield had dropped to 3.6% in September 2024 from 5% one year earlier. As the economy heated back up it increased. It was 4.75% in January but has worked its way back to 4.25% in the past few days. Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the year at 43,840.91, down 1.6% from 44,544.66 on January 31, 2025. The Dow is up 3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the year at 5,954.50, down 1.4% from 6,040.53 on January 31, 2025. It is up 1.3% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed at 18,847.28, down 4% from 19,627.44 on January 31, 2025. It is down 2.4% year-to-date. U.S. Treasury Bond Yields increased in 2024 – The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the year at 4.24%, down from 4.58% On December 31, 2024. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 4.51%, down from 4.83% on January 31, 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 January 30, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.76%, down from 6.95% last month. The 15-year fixed was 5.94%, down from 6.12% last month. 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 January’s home sales figures. U.S. existing-home sales January 2025 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.08-million units on a seasonal annualized rate in January, up 2% from an annualized rate of 4-million units last January. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in January was $396,900, up 4.8% from $378,600 one year ago. There was a 3.5-month supply of homes for sale in January, up from a 3-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 28% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 29% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 3% of all sales. California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 254,110 on an annualized basis in January, down 1.9% from a revised 259,160 homes sold on an annualized basis last January. The statewide median price paid for a home was $838,850 in January, up 6.3% from $789,480 one year ago. There was a 4.1-month supply of homes for sale in January, up significantly from a 2.7-month supply of homes for sale in December and up from a 3.2-month supply in January 2024. The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California |
Economic Update | Week Ending March 1, 2025
Reports released this week showed that jobless claims had picked up. This points to confirm other reports like a sudden drop in retail sales and consumer confidence that suggest the economy is slowing. On Friday, experts were surprised to learn that the Personal Consumption Expenditure Index (PCE) in January showed just a 2.5% annual increase, down from a 2.6% annual increase in December. That marked the first inflation report in several months that did not show inflation increasing. Mortgage rates and bond yields have dropped in the last two weeks.
Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 43,840.91, up 1% from 43,428.02 last week. It is up 3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,954.50, down 1% from 6,013.13 last week. The S&P is up 1.3% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,847.28, down 3.5% from 19,524.01 last week. It is down 2.4% year-to-date. U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.24%, down from 4.42% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.51%, down from 4.67% 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 February 27, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.76%, down from 6.85% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.94%, down from 6.04% 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. Have a Great Weekend! |
Mortgage Rate Update | February 27, 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 February 27, 2025, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.76%, down from 6.85% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.94%, down from 6.04% 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.