In today's world, home is a needed refuge, a tranquil abode that provides a serene space protected from outside stressors, a place where you feel nurtured and supported. Taking the time to set up a calm and functional environment makes daily life move more gracefully, especially during the busy holiday season.

The end of the year is a time of endings and new beginnings, marked by the annual cosmic event of the winter solstice. On Saturday, December 21, the sun will be at its furthest point south in the sky, resulting in the longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere. The winter solstice seeks joy and renewal in the depths of quiet and darkness, and falling in the midst of the bustling holiday season, is Mother Nature's cyclical cue to remember to rest ourselves.

2024 has proven to be yet another "unprecedented" year of twists and turns, and the housing market is no exception. Many potential buyers and sellers are still holding out for lower mortgage rates, the economy begins to recover and then stalls again, and housing inventory is increasing, yet at a snail's pace. However, buyer mortgage applications are up 1% from last year, affordability is moving in a positive direction, and there is hope on the horizon. Let's take a look at some of the trends and trajectories of the housing market as we close out 2024.

Whether you're getting ready to host Thanksgiving, have friends over for a game night, or just hang out with family, making your home cozy and inviting will put everyone at ease. Simply rearranging a few pieces of furniture, adding touches of nature, or taking on some fun, easy DIY projects can transform your house into a relaxing refuge from holiday stress and will have everyone feeling at home.

November is the perfect time to take advantage of cooler temperatures for exploring national parks, enjoying outdoor festivities, and perusing holiday craft fairs for that perfect gift! An array of fall experiences across California and Arizona await you, from fall hikes to farm tours and farm stays, wine tastings to harvest markets, Turkey Trots (for fun or fundraising for local charities), to holiday parades, evening art walks, and of course, golf! Here are some regional and region-specific activities to enjoy as the holiday season kicks off.

The past few years of the housing market have been quite a roller coaster, but we are finally seeing some traction. With home sales rising in most major US metropolitan areas, an early October jump in mortgage applications, and the Fed set to continue its rate cuts, the market is uncharacteristically warm this fall. Let's take a look at some recent market trends, the economic indicators driving them, and what buyers and sellers can do to be part of the action.

Many of us are seeking balance in our lives these days, and there is nothing more rejuvenating than spending time in nature's beauty. The autumn equinox in late September marked the time of year when day and night share nearly equal lengths of time, giving us a celestial model of balance. Fall itself brings a sense of calm, welcoming us into a season of nurture, self-reflection, and stillness before the hectic onset of the holidays. Whether going for a scenic drive, taking an autumn hike, or enjoying a fall festival, now is the time to get outside and take in the incredible splendor of the season.

As we move through autumn into winter, it's important to ensure that our homes are in top shape, inside and out. While other parts of the country worry about bursting pipes and freezing temperatures, in California and Arizona, the potential dangers are floods, wildfires, and falling branches. Preparation is key to avoid emergencies later. Here are 12 things you can do to keep heating costs down while staying warm and protecting your home from seasonal damage - and 10 extra tips for snowbirds heading south for the winter.