The Real Estate Beat

NAR Members Sound the Alarm on the Effects of the Government Shutdown – Shared Article

I read this article HERE.

Responses from more than 600 real estate professionals describe the negative effects of closing crucial housing, loan and insurance programs offered through FHA, HUD, VA and NFIP.

On Oct. 22, a few weeks into the federal government shutdown, the National Association of REALTORS® issued a Call For Information to its full membership to take the pulse on the ramifications for real estate professionals and their clients.

Unlike a traditional Call For Action (CFA), which prompts members to simply click and send a message to their members of Congress, this request invited NAR members to share their own stories about how the government shutdown was impacting their clients, businesses and communities.

“What’s at stake for housing and homeownership nationwide is important for Americans to thrive and step into their dreams,” wrote one member. “Our government must reopen for the people.”

The response rate was remarkable: 641 members from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico submitted firsthand accounts, representing 386 local associations—about 35% of all associations nationwide. While engagement metrics differ from a one-click CFA, the volume and depth of these NAR member responses underscored the power of REALTORS® as trusted messengers on the front lines of the housing market.

The Call For Information shows:

35.6% of stories mention one of more federal housing programs, like the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
The most frequently cited impacts were USDA, VA, NFIP/Flood Insurance and FHA.
There were over 60 stories highlighting hardship, family strain, or the domino effects of delayed transactions.
259 unique associations were represented in responses (approximately 24% of local boards)

Collapsing Deals, Low Morale

Perhaps unsurprisingly, most responses were from high-population states including Florida, Texas and California.

One North Carolina agent, who is a REALTOR®, explained that home sales are being delayed due to holdups in NFIP flood insurance renewals and USDA loan approvals, two essential programs for the state’s coastal and rural areas. In some North Carolina communities, almost every financed home purchase relies on one or both of these federal services. As a result, deals are collapsing, and families are losing the homes they’ve worked tirelessly to obtain.

The effects extend well beyond the housing market: Many North Carolinians, including military families and federal employees, are struggling to afford basic necessities, while local small businesses that depend on their spending are seeing steep drops in revenue. “The financial strain is real, the morale is low, and the longer this continues, the harder recovery will be for working families and small businesses alike,” the member reported.

Many other members reported similar experiences, with clients often feeling uncertain about the real estate market and experiencing a lack of consumer confidence. This uncertainty frequently led to stalled transactions, disrupting multiple deals, and affecting buyers, sellers, agents, lenders and contractors alike.

‘A Train Wreck’ for Escrows, Military Families and Local Businesses

“As a REALTOR®, I am seeing firsthand how the federal government shutdown is disrupting the housing market,” one member in California said. “As a NAR member, I want to help illustrate the real impacts the shutdown has had on my business, clients and community—such as delayed FHA, VA or conventional loans, especially without access to government flood insurance. Military families are being stifled by this shutdown, with delayed loans and added strain to their finances. This is a deterrent for our military service members who give their lives willingly to serve this country. Sellers are unsure about proceeding due to market volatility and concerns about affordability. So many buyers are being impacted as the buyer pool has diminished.”

The member continued: “Additionally, in California, obtaining flood insurance has become a major problem, so having sources available from the government has allowed us to close our escrows. However, without these options, due to the shutdown, it’s a train wreck for our escrows leaving us with delays and obstacles to struggle to get our escrows closed.”

Chipping Away at the Foundation

The shutdown may be centered in Washington, but its costs are being paid in every community across America.

“The National Association of REALTORS® urges Congress to come together and pass a clean, bipartisan continuing resolution or a long-term funding package to restore stability to the housing market and the broader economy. Every day that passes without action chips away at the foundation of the American Dream,” says Shannon McGahn, NAR executive vice president and chief advocacy officer.

Michael Rauber

Michael Rauber is manager of advocacy communications at the National Association of REALTORS®.

Content by Michael Rauber

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The Stats are In… Market Snapshot for Sept & Oct 2025

Hello Caton Team Friends,

The stats are in for September and October 2025. Where September showed some price adjustments down in the single family home sector – for October we are seeing growth. That dip in interest rates sure helped. Going from around 7% to 6% and then some down to the 5% level, gave buyers some breathing room and opportunity to act.

I still feel this year has been an odd year. Condo markets took a hit with many taking care of maintenance and safety issues that tapped into their reserves and bringing them down. Some fell off the “good” list and we hope to see those condos come back in full force as the condo market is so important for first time buyers.

For my selling clients, lives change everyday and if you need to sell your home – let’s come up with a strategy to get you sold! Even in a weird market The Caton Team can help you strategically sell your home.

For my buyers, some homes are garnering multiple offers, but some are overlooked. With a little legwork, a buyer can truly find some great opportunities when they align with the market.

If you’re considering a Real Estate move, contact The Caton Team for a free consultation. With over 45+ years of combined Real Estate experience, we have the knowledge and know-how to guide you to your goal. Call us at 650.799.4333 or email us at info@TheCatonTeam.com.

Let’s see our month over month…

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Whether you are selling or buying – today or tomorrow – contact The Caton Team – we’re happy to help you achieve your Real Estate goals.

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Each market is unique and with over 40 years of combined Real Estate experience, The Caton Team is more than happy to be of service if and when you are considering a move. Contact us anytime during your journey, together we’ll help you achieve your Real Estate goals.

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The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – wouldn’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

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10 Hottest Home Design Trends to Watch for 2025 – Did the Take Off? – Shared Article

Find out what styles are taking shape in home interiors and exteriors for the year ahead. With the year slowly coming in an end – did these trends take off?

Many different styles are influencing today’s home trends, from rounded walls and furnishings to traditional styles mixed in with bolder textures and colors. The home remodeling site Houzz recently released its 2025 home design predictions. Here’s what made their list as the top trends to watch for next year:

1. English-style kitchens

These cozy kitchens feature cabinets in rich woods as well as historical paint colors, such as moody blues and deep greens. “You’ll also find natural countertop materials, like soapstone and butcher’s block, as well as large range alcoves, wood ceiling beams and collected looks that appear pieced together over time,” the Houzz report notes.

Photo credit: John Keeble / Getty Images

2. Rounded furnishings

Gentle curves and rounded edges continue to be grounded in the popularity of organic modern styles. Expect to see more circular coffee and dining tables, finished off with cylindrical legs. Also, Houzz designers predict bulbous sofas and accent chairs and oblong mirrors.

Photo credit: Melissa Tracey

3. Arches

Fitting right in with the curvier home trend are arched walls and home accessories. Arches, in particular, are adding “a touch of playfulness and [helping to] soften harsh angles to generate a welcoming, cozy feel,” the Houzz report notes. Arches can be added to home doorways, windows, niches, cabinets and millwork details. Also, arched accessories, like arched mirrors, headboards and chairs, are bringing in scalloped silhouettes that hug spaces.

Photo credit: Melissa Tracey

4. Shower rooms

Showers have been featuring frameless glass enclosures, but homeowners looking for greater privacy are embracing a “shower room.” “This style of shower has a glass door leading into a fully enclosed space that creates an intimate, spa-like look and feel,” the Houzz report notes. “A shower room allows features that require a more sealed-in design, such as steam and sauna functions and aromatherapy and chromotherapy.”

5. Kitchen range alcoves

These range alcoves include a recessed or niche area—sometimes arched—and are often flanked by countertops and side walls. “This feature adds a substantial architectural element to a kitchen, creating a focal point and allowing for a natural stopping point for, and containment of, a striking backsplash design,” the Houzz report notes.

Photo credit: Erik Snyder / Getty Images

6. Woven and mesh cabinet fronts

“Woven and mesh details add texture and visual interest,” Houzz notes. “We’re seeing it frequently used to help break up expanses of cabinets, especially in kitchens.” It’s also being used in bathroom vanities, furniture and even window treatments. Designers say that natural woven materials can soften hard edges and provide a warm counterpoint to cold surfaces, creating more cozy and welcoming spaces.

Photo credit: Suchada Tansirimas / Getty Images

7. Narrow wet rooms

Wetroom bathrooms—typically a shower and tub in a spacious shower area—have grown in popularity in recent years. But wet rooms are now being added in smaller, narrower spaces, too. “Placing a tub at the back of a long room, with a separate shower in front, gives homeowners with tight spaces a wet room arrangement that looks and feels more luxurious than the standard shower-tub combo,” the report notes.

Photo credit: Ibrahim Akcengiz / Getty Images

8. Wood-infused architectural warmth

Adding “warmth” into an interior has become a popular buzzword in home design, marking a shift away from cool whites and grays. Color trends are moving more into off-whites, creams, beiges, tans and browns. “Paired with warm neutral palettes, earthy tones and organic colors, we’re seeing wood elements used as ceiling beams, trim, millwork, wall paneling, posts and cabinetry to add architectural warmth to spaces throughout the home,” according to Houzz’s report.

Photo credit: Melissa Tracey / 2024 New American Home

9. Layers of color, pattern and texture

Maximalist styles are layering in bold color, patterns and textures. The “design approach celebrates abundance and allows homeowners to furnish their homes with pieces that reflect their personalities,” Houzz notes. For example, grooved wall and ceiling paneling are being done in bold colors, and more patterns are entering everything from drapery and rugs to furniture and pillows.

Photo credit: Melissa Tracey

10. Multiple outdoor cooking options

Homeowners want more than just a grill for backyard dining. They’re increasingly using other outdoor cooking methods, such as pizza ovens, smokers, ceramic kamado-style barbecues and Argentinian-style gaucho grills that use wood or charcoal.

Photo credit: Melissa Tracey

I read this article HERE. By: Melissa Dittmann Tracey

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Time Change – Fall Back to Pacific Standard Time

Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour on Sunday November 2, 2025 to Pacific Standard Time.

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

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Top 10 Halloween & Home Related Movies…

Hello Caton Team Friends,

Happy Halloween! You made it to my top scariest Halloween & Home related Movie. Did I miss any? What’s your favorite?

Tune-in in December for my favorite Christmas movies. M

So here it is. My top scariest Halloween & Home related movie….

The Chain Saw Massacre – 1974

Staring – Marilyn Burns, Edwin Neal, Allen Danziger

Directed By Tobe Hooper

Written By Kim Henkel, Tobe Hooper

I jumped out of my skin the first time I saw this. Even if my brother jumped out from behind the sofa to scare me. All I have to say – this property will have disclosure issues.

Real Estate tidbit. Read your disclosures and internet search the address. Just in case.

Photo from IMDB.com

Thank you for following my favorite Real Estate themed films – what are some of yours?

#besthorrorrealestatemovies #myfavoritescaryrealestatemovies IGPosts

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A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 45 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – wouldn’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

DRE # | Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 | Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Top 10 Halloween & Home Related Movies…

Hello Caton Team Friends,

As we lead up to Halloween, I thought I would share my Top 10 Halloween & Home related Movies. Here is # 4, 3, & 2…

The Conjuring – 2013

Staring – Patrick Wilson, Vera Garmiga, Rob Livingston

Directed by James Wan

Written by Chad Hayes, Carey W. Hayes

If you like to get scared as heck – watch this. Why I do this to myself? I do not know. Never watch The Conjuring 2 though… Real Estate Tid-Bit: If your pet doesn’t want to go in the home – neither should you – just saying…

Photo from IMDB.com

The Others – 2001

Staring – Nicole Kidman, Fionnula Flanagan, Christopher Eccleston

Directed by Alejandro Amenábar

Written by Alejandro Amenábar

One of my all time favorite movies ever. This could easily be my number one favorite. But I had to save the literal best for last. I do highly recommend watching this movie if you haven’t seen it yet. Such a mysterious house and the people in it. Well worth a watch this Halloween. Real Estate Tid-Bit: In rural areas it is not uncommon to have a graveyard on a property. Would you still buy it?

Photo from IMDB.com

Poltergeist – 1982

Staring – JoBeth Williams, Heather O’Rourke, Craig T. Nelson.

Directed by Tobe Hooper

Written by Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais

This terrifying film is how I explain – Non Disclosed Issues of Material Value. Haha – JK. Well, I do bring up the example of “built on an Indian Burial Ground” more than I care to admit – but it really hones the point in – don’t you think? Real Estate Tid-Bit: Do your own investigating – it’s important to know what and where you are buying.

Photo from IMDB.com

Thank you for following my favorite Real Estate themed films – what are some of yours?

#besthorrorrealestatemovies #myfavoritescaryrealestatemovies IGPosts

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A Family of Realtors
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What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

DRE # | Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 | Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Top 10 Halloween & Home Related Movies…

Hello Caton Team Friends,

As we lead up to Halloween, I thought I would share my Top 10 Halloween & Home related Movies. Here is # 7, 6, & 5…

The Amityville Horror – 1979

Staring – James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger

Directed by Stuart Rosenberg

Written by Sandor Stern, Jay Anson

The town of Amityville is so quaint and lovely. But this house and that street is infamous. Eek! Real Estate Tid-Bit: You get what you pay for! Just because the house was “cheap” doesn’t mean it was worth the investment.

Photo from IMDB.com

Beetlejuice – 1988

Staring – Alex Baldwin, Geena Davis, Michael Keaton

Directed by Tim Burton

Written by Michael McDowell, Larry Wilson

Talk about “from the grave”. As homeowners we love our homes and cherish them. So who lives in them next makes a difference. Real Estate Tid-Bit: Let go. If you’re buying you next home it’s time to pack up and get ready for the next adventure.

Photo from IMDB.com

The Shining * – 1980

Staring – Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd

Directed by Stanley Kubrick

Written by Stephen King and Stanley Kubrick

I add the (*) here because is the house haunted or Jack??? Real Estate Tid-Bit: Do not volunteer to house-sit allllllllll winter.

Photo from IMDB.com

Thank you for following my favorite Real Estate themed films – what are some of yours?

#besthorrorrealestatemovies #myfavoritescaryrealestatemovies IGPosts

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

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Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

DRE # | Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 | Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Top 10 Halloween & Home Related Movies…

Hello Caton Team Friends,

As we lead up to Halloween, I thought I would share my Top 10 Halloween & Home related Movies. What’s your favorite?

Here is # 10, 9 & 8

House on Haunted Hill – 1959

Staring – Vincent Price, Carol Ohmart, Richard Long

Directed by William Castle, Rosemary Horvath

Written by Robb White

A classic film of Vincent Price. The real question is – would you sleep in that house for a night???? I don’t think I would.

Real Estate Tid-Bit: Those kind of tenants are going to be a disclosures nightmare come sale time! Double check those background checks!

Photo from IMDB.com

The Evil Dead – 1981

Staring – Bruce Campbell, Ellen Sandweiss, Richard DeManincor

Directed by Sam Raimi

Written By Sam Raimi

One of my hubby’s favorite films about a vacation rental going terribly wrong.

Real Estate Tid-Bit: Double check those descriptions and house instructions. Guess those give and take books at the cabin are a bit heavy to handle…

Thank you for following my favorite Real Estate themed films – what are some of yours?

Photo from IMDB.com

Edward Scissorhands – 1990

Staring – Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest

Directed by Tim Burton

Written by Tim Burton, Caroline Thomspon

Had to change it up and I thought of a sweeter, more halloweenie movie and came up with darling Depp and his panache for sculpting.

Real Estate Tid-Bit: Much like Edward found in the abandoned old lab – a fixer upper homes are worth the love, TLC and effort.

Photo from IMDB.com

Thank you for following my favorite Real Estate themed films – what are some of yours?

#besthorrorrealestatemovies #myfavoritescaryrealestatemovies IGPosts

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Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

DRE # | Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 | Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Planning for Long-Term Care Expenses – Shared Article

Long-term care (LTC) is a reality many people face as they age, yet few adequately prepare for its financial implications. While it isn’t always a pleasant situation to think about and can bring up a lot of emotions. Planning for LTC expenses is crucial to making sure you or your loved ones receive the necessary care without depleting assets.

Keep reading, and we will share the costs, funding options, and strategic steps to prepare for long-term care and make an informed decision for you and your family.

Why Planning for Long-Term Care is Essential

The average annual cost of a private room in a nursing home exceeded $100,000 in 2023, while assisted living facilities averaged $60,000. Home care services can also exceed $25 per hour. These are not small numbers and need to be planned for. Here are a few things to consider:

Longevity: As life expectancy increases, more individuals require extended periods of care.
Financial Risk: Long-term care expenses can drain retirement savings without a plan, leaving families financially vulnerable.
Peace of Mind: Early planning reduces stress and ensures access to preferred care options.

Understanding Long-Term Care Services

LTC includes a variety of services designed to help individuals with standard daily living activities, like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. These services are generalized categorized as:

Home Care: Assistance provided in the individual’s home, ranging from part-time help to 24/7 care.
Assisted Living: Residential facilities offering everything from housing, meals, and assistance with daily activities.
Nursing Homes: Facilities providing round-the-clock medical care and assistance.
Memory Care: Specialized services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Each option comes with different price ranges and cost structures, making it important to evaluate which suits your needs and budget.

Factors Influencing Long-Term Care Costs

As mentioned above, the pricing structure will vary depending on the facility and care needed, here are a few factors that can influence the overall cost:

Location: Urban areas and high-cost states typically have higher care costs.
Type of Service: Skilled nursing facilities cost significantly more than basic home care.
Duration of Care: The average length of LTC for individuals is about three years, though it varies widely based on health conditions.
Inflation: Health care costs often rise faster than general inflation, impacting future care expenses.

Funding Options for Long-Term Care

Understanding how to fund long-term care is central to effective planning. Here are common options:

Personal Savings and Assets

Many individuals rely on personal savings, investments, and home equity.

Drawbacks: Rapid depletion of assets and potential inability to cover extended care.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long term care insurance offers coverage for LTC expenses, including home care, assisted living, and select nursing facilities.

Benefits:
- Protects savings and assets.
- Offers flexibility in care options.
Considerations:
- Premiums can be costly and may increase with age.
- Policies often require medical underwriting, limiting access for those with pre-existing conditions.

Medicaid

Medic aid was a state and federally funded program for low-income individuals. It covers nursing home care and some home-based services.

Limitations:
- Requires spending down assets to qualify.
- It may limit access to certain facilities and services.

Medicare

This option covers limited LTC services, such as short-term skilled nursing care after hospitalization.

Not a comprehensive solution for long-term care needs.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

Tax-advantaged accounts, such as HSA’s, can be used for qualified medical expenses, including some LTC costs. They are best suited for individuals who start contributing early as it follows you whenever you leave a job.

Hybrid Insurance Policies

Combine life insurance or annuities with long-term care benefits. Hybrid insurance policies offer payouts for long-term care or a death benefit if care isn’t needed.

Pros:
- Flexible use of funds.
- No “useless” premiums if care isn’t required.

Strategies to Plan for Long-Term Care Costs

Lanning for long term care requires some strategy and planning, but it is doable and should not be too stressful. Here are a few strategies to follow to make your long term care costs manageable and not have anything hit you or your family by surprise.

Start Early
- The earlier you plan, the more options you have.
- Younger individuals can secure long-term care insurance at lower premiums.
Evaluate Needs and Risks
- Assess family medical history and personal health to estimate potential care needs.
- Consider whether staying at home or moving to a facility aligns with your preferences.
Create a Budget
- Estimate future costs based on current care expenses and inflation.
- Include long-term care as a line item in your retirement budget.
Involve Family Members
- Discuss care preferences with family members to set expectations and align on potential caregiving roles.
- Clarify financial contributions from family, if applicable.
Explore Legal Protections
- Work with an estate planner to establish legal protections, such as trusts, to shield assets while qualifying for Medicaid.
- Consider appointing a financial power of attorney to manage assets if incapacitated.
Leverage Professional Advice
- Financial planners specializing in elder care can provide tailored solutions.
- Insurance brokers can help identify suitable LTC insurance policies.

Plan for Care

Planning for long-term care expenses requires foresight, financial discipline, and informed decision-making. By understanding all of the costs, exploring funding options, and adopting proactive strategies, you can secure quality care while protecting your financial future. Start planning today to ensure you’re prepared for the future.

I read this article HERE.