Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Proposition 37: 17% Second Mortgage
California may soon see a new path to homeownership for buyers of certain newly built homes—Proposition 37 introduces a state-backed second mortgage, designed to help more families cross the threshold. With buyers contributing at least 3% upfront, this program could provide up to 17% of the purchase price, so together with your own savings, you’d…
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Happy Labor Day!
Labor Day in the United States celebrates the contributions of workers everywhere, while also unofficially marking the final big summer weekend before fall takes over. It’s known for backyard barbecues, road trips, and that classic tradition of buying things you didn’t know you needed because “it’s on sale.” Beaches, parks, and grills reach peak activity…
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Perfect Home Improvement Projects for People Who HATE Renovating
Start home improvements with simple maintenance like replacing air filters and sealing drafts. Installing a smart thermostat can reduce energy bills and improve comfort with minimal effort. Small hardware swaps, such as changing cabinet knobs and outlet covers, can refresh your space easily. Upgrading lighting with brighter or smart bulbs enhances daily living. A fresh…
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California’s cheapest place to live in 2026 is a quaint alpine city less than 3 hours from L.A., where median home prices are just $325,000
Porterville is the cheapest city to live in California in 2026, with a median home price of $325,000 and median rent of $1,358, both well below state averages. Its overall cost of living is 12% lower than the state average, earning it the highest affordability score. Other affordable California cities include Fresno, Bakersfield, Tulare, Eureka,…
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California Rules Discourage Condo Construction
California's median single-family home price hovered near $800K, leaving condominiums as a more realistic ownership path for many younger, working, and middle-class households. The main barrier described was legal risk: condo projects faced defect disputes that could reach court before builders had a chance to repair problems. After a homeowners association formed, attorneys could pursue…
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California Homeownership Doesn’t Tip Until 47
California voters in Mid-Q4 will consider two housing measures: one focused on middle-class buyer help, another on lower-income housing and veteran loans. The middle-class measure would use up to $25B in revenue bonds, covering down payments up to 17% for newly built homes statewide. A separate $11.25B bond package would direct $10B to lower-income housing…
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Is California one of the best states to call home?
A ranking of all 50 states based on 51 indicators including affordability, economy, education, health, quality of life, and safety was conducted. California ranked 31st, last in affordability, 38th in safety, but 2nd in quality of life and 15th in economy. The top five states to live in are Idaho, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, and…
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California: Saving 20% Down Takes Years
A California household earning the median income now needs ~15 yr to save a ~20% down payment, one of the longest timelines nationwide. Typical California homes now cost ~$776K, while median household income is ~$106K, showing why many buyers need far more time to build savings. At California's minimum wage, saving alone for a down…
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US Housing Faces Slower Growth Ahead
Rising construction costs could slow US housing market growth in the months ahead, making planning and pricing discipline more important for buyers and sellers. Slower household formation, economic uncertainty, weak labor markets, and reduced immigration are dampening demand, so market timing may require closer local guidance. Construction activity has softened, while affordable housing remains scarce;…
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Creative Paths to Homeownership Grow in LA, Orange Counties
Housing affordability declined in Los Angeles and Orange counties due to higher mortgage rates and rising home prices. In Los Angeles County, 17% of households could afford the median-priced home at $879,900, requiring an income of $219,200. Orange County affordability dropped to 15% for a $1.485 million home, needing $370,000 income. Statewide affordability fell to…
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