The “California Dream” is currently hitting a structural wall that requires more than just minor adjustments—it requires a complete overhaul of our state’s housing strategy. Recent data from the California Association of Realtors paints a sobering picture: only 18% of households in the state can currently afford a median-priced, single-family home.

California Housing Approach 2026 update on affordability and supply reform in San Diego County
Why 2026 is the year for California housing reform

In this deep dive, Brad & Karen Mattonen explore why the status quo is failing San Diego families. We break down the critical factors contributing to this crisis, including:

  • The Supply Shortage: Residential permitting has plummeted by 16% year-over-year, meaning we are building far fewer homes than the population requires.
  • The “VMT” Hurdle: We discuss the impact of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) regulations, which add significant hidden costs to new developments and often stall projects before they even break ground.
  • The Affordability Gap: With inventory at historic lows, the competition for existing homes remains fierce, even as interest rates fluctuate.

At HomesInSDCounty, our mission is Relentless Advocacy. We believe that 2026 must be the year we prioritize supply, reduce bureaucratic red tape, and protect the future of homeownership in San Diego County. Whether you are a first-time buyer looking for down payment assistance or a homeowner curious about how these shifts affect your equity, this update is for you. It’s time to move past bureaucracy and prioritize the future of our communities.


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We do our best :
✔️ To ensure your sale or purchase is legal, safe, and protected
✔️To prevent the expensive mistakes others miss
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🛫 Relocating? Buying, selling, or relocating in San Diego, Riverside, Orange County—or anywhere in the U.S.?
We’ve Got You Covered—Nationwide.

We’re not just your local experts—and we don’t just work in Southern California. We’re backed by the powerhouse Coldwell Banker National Network and a handpicked team of personally vetted agents across the country. Whether you’re making a move across town or across the country, we ensure a smooth, strategic, and successful experience.

We’ll connect you with an agent we trust—not just someone in the directory.

🚀 Connect With Us & Join the Community!

Don’t navigate the SoCal homes dip alone. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to downsize using your equity, we are here to be your advocates.

Brad Mattonen, REALTOR® | CA DRE #02062665 Karen Mattonen, REALTOR® | CA DRE #02044711 Coldwell Banker West | HomesInSDCounty

📞 Call/Text: 858-518-2875 or 858-668-8004 📧 Email: bmattonenrealtor@gmail.com 🌐 Search All Homes: HomesInSDCounty.com 📍 Visit Us: 7135 Camino Del Sur, Suite 115, San Diego, CA 92127

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