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Brad & Karen Mattonen · The Journal

San Diego County real estate, explained.

Market updates, neighborhood guides and plain-English advice for buying, selling and owning a home in San Diego County.

    Popular topicsSan Diego Real EstateLiving in San DiegoBuying a HomeAffordable HousingMarket Trends55+ & Senior Living
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    Latest · San Diego Real EstateHome Improvements: What Pays You Back?home improvements with highest roi san diegoWondering which home upgrades actually build equity before you sell? We analyze the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report and NAR…November 5, 2026
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    1,880 articlesSan Diego Real EstateMarket updates, pricing trends and what they mean for your next move.LatestHome Improvements: What Pays You Back?326 articlesLiving in San DiegoNeighborhoods, events and everyday life across the county.LatestSan Diego County Housing Affordability: Steady Market Insights for 2024444 articlesBuying a HomeOffers, financing and every step from search to keys.LatestSan Diego County Housing Affordability: Steady Market Insights for 2024258 articlesAffordable HousingPrograms, policy and ways to make a San Diego home attainable.LatestSan Diego County Housing Affordability: Steady Market Insights for 2024259 articlesMarket TrendsThe numbers behind prices, inventory and rates.LatestHome Improvements: What Pays You Back?11 articles55+ & Senior LivingActive adult communities, downsizing and senior moves.LatestHome Improvements: What Pays You Back?176 articlesCalifornia Housing LawsNew rules for owners, landlords and buyers, explained.LatestCalifornia’s New Housing Bill: What It Means for Homeowners and Buyers50 articlesADUsBackyard homes and granny flats: rules, costs and value.LatestThe $70,000 California Tiny Home Dream Dies in California (Unless You Have an Agent Who Actually Does the Work)
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    Sell for top dollar

    From pricing to closing, the playbook we use with our sellers.

    1. The 100-Point Selling Plan
    2. Home Staging Guide
    3. 5 Costly Selling Mistakes to Avoid
    4. Why Listings Expire (and the Fix)
    5. Prop 19: Keep Your Low Tax Base
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    Buy your first home

    Down payment help, credit and the steps to your first set of keys.

    1. The Ultimate Homebuyer’s Guide
    2. First-Time Buyer Programs in San Diego
    3. CalHFA MyHome: 3.5% Down Payment Help
    4. How to Boost Your Credit Score
    5. Mortgage Calculator
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    Probate & inherited homes

    Clear, compassionate guidance for families handling an estate.

    1. What Is Probate?
    2. Selling a Home in Probate
    3. Selling an Inherited Home
    4. How a Living Trust Protects Your Family
    5. A Complete Guide to Estate Planning
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    San Diego Real Estate · Oct 17, 2026This Monthly Home Maintenance Task List Will Prevent Repairs Down the RoadStaying ahead of minor home maintenance tasks is the absolute best way to protect your property’s value and avoid costly…San Diego Real Estate · Oct 17, 2026US home price growth inches upThe U.S. housing market is showing conflicting signals as we navigate the changing landscape. While single-family home prices…San Diego Real Estate · Oct 16, 2026California law adds new compliance layer for rental property ownersCalifornia’s rental landscape is shifting with the signing of SB 1296, the Pet Policy Transparency Act. Starting April 1, 2027,…San Diego Real Estate · Oct 15, 2026San Diego Prices Are Sending Mixed SignalsThe local housing market is telling two different stories right now. While closed prices continue to climb—with the September…San Diego Real Estate · Oct 14, 2026US Law Limits Large Housing Investors | Brad & Karen MattonenNew legislative proposals are looking to reshape the housing market by placing limits on large institutional investors. As…San Diego Real Estate · Oct 13, 2026U.S. Active Listings Rise 5.6% | Brad & Karen MattonenInventory is shifting across the housing market as U.S. active home listings climb by 5.6%. This notable uptick in available…San Diego Real Estate · Oct 12, 2026SourceRE’s AI Connector Aims To Put MLSs Ahead Of PortalsLet’s connect and talk about the latest insights in the industry! …San Diego Real Estate · Oct 11, 2026Honoring the Significance of Indigenous DaySan Diego Real Estate · Oct 10, 2026San Diego County Homeowners Report Greater Financial SatisfactionIn the vibrant San Diego County real estate market, homeowners are reporting greater financial satisfaction . This trend…
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