Scott and Caroline Doan
Realtors®
Realty Executives Temecula Valley
May marked the third month in a row that Case-Shiller's seasonally-adjusted national home price index declined month-over-month. On an unadjusted (real world) basis, home prices are still rising nationally, just at a much slower pace than normal for these spring/summer months. And in some markets (especially the Sun Belt and Mountain states), home prices are actually declining, albeit modestly. [Source: S&P JDI]
As expected, the Federal Reserve held its policy rate range steady at 4.25-4.50%. But unusually for the consensus-loving Fed, two voters (Christopher Waller and Michelle Bowman) dissented. They wanted a 25 basis point (0.25% = one quarter of a percentage point) cut instead. A day later, the PCE (inflation) report showed a modest INCREASE in the annual inflation rate. Not what we want to see. [Source: Federal Reserve, BLS]

According to Freddie Mac's weekly PMMS, average 30-year mortgage rates were largely unchanged week-over-week at 6.72%. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell's comments after the FOMC meeting were somewhat hawkish, suggesting that a rate cut at the September meeting was far from guaranteed, especially if tariffs appear to be reigniting inflation. [Source: Freddie Mac PMMS, Federal Reserve]

| Area | Median Price | Active Listings | New Listings - 5 days | Median Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temecula, CA |
$874,900
-0.3%
|
473
0%
|
33 |
47
-0.2%
|
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Murrieta, California, Bear Creek Golf Club and the adjoining Bear Creek residential community offer a unique blend of luxury living and recreational opportunities. This vibrant community is designed for those who appreciate an active lifestyle, featuring a plethora of amenities that cater to residents of all ages.
Amenities That Enhance Your Lifestyle
Conclusion
Bear Creek Golf Club and the Bear Creek community present an unparalleled lifestyle in Murrieta, California. With extensive amenities and beautiful surroundings, it’s a perfect sanctuary for those who cherish golf, sports, and a vibrant community living experience. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, engage in friendly competition, or relish a round of golf, Bear Creek has something for everyone, making it a truly exceptional place to call home.
Start your Bear Creek Country Club home search by clicking the below image.
Buying a home is one of life's biggest milestones — a moment filled with excitement and new possibilities. But for many, the biggest hurdle isn’t the dream itself—it’s coming up with the down payment. If that feels overwhelming, you're not alone. That’s why, during National Homeownership Month, Realtors® Scott and Caroline Doan want to spotlight a resource that could make your homeownership journey more achievable: **down payment assistance**.
What Is Down Payment Assistance?
Since 2008, Down Payment Resource (DPR) has been dedicated to helping prospective buyers discover financial aid they might not even know exists. DPR tracks over 2,500 assistance programs nationwide, providing tools that connect you to support, reduce your upfront costs, and make owning a home more affordable.
So, what exactly is DPA?
Down payment assistance programs are designed to help cover upfront costs — usually the down payment, but often they go beyond:
- Closing costs
- Prepaid expenses
- Interest rate buy-downs
- Even your buyer’s agent commission (yes, some programs cover this!)
Many programs also help reduce your monthly mortgage payments and decrease the total amount you’ll repay over time, making homeownership more manageable.
Debunking Myths: You Might Qualify More Than You Think
A common misconception is that DPA is only for low-income or first-time buyers. The reality is quite different:
- Income limits are often based on your local area, and many are higher than you expect.
- Your credit score doesn’t need to be perfect—if you’re close to lender requirements, you could qualify.
- Repeat buyers are welcome — nearly 40% of programs are open to those who have owned before.
- Buying unconventional homes? Almost 1,000 programs support manufactured homes, and over 800 cover multifamily properties like duplexes or fourplexes. You can even live in one unit and rent out the others to offset costs.
What Does Help Look Like?
DPA programs aren’t one-size-fits-all, but here are some examples of what you might find:
- Loans: 57% offer second mortgage loans—often at low or no interest.
- Deferred payments: 80% of these loans are deferred until you sell or refinance.
- Forgiveness: 53% of programs forgive portions of the loan over time, rewarding stability.
- Grants: 177 programs provide free money that you never have to pay back.
On average, these programs can reduce your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio by about 6%, easing your path to qualifying for a mortgage and lowering your monthly payments.
Finding Assistance Has Never Been Easier
Since partnering in 2021, over five million home shoppers have used DPR tools via Zillow, and 93% of users found at least one assistance program they may qualify for. That means help is out there, and you might be surprised at how close to your goal you already are.
Your Journey to Homeownership Starts Here
If saving that huge down payment has kept you on the sidelines, let DPR and your local real estate professionals help you turn that dream into reality. Scott and Caroline Doan are here to:
- Help you discover programs you’re eligible for
- Show how assistance can fit into your overall homebuying plan
- Connect you with knowledgeable agents and lenders familiar with DPA
Let’s Make Homeownership Happen
This National Homeownership Month, it’s time to rewrite the story of what it takes to buy a home. Down payment assistance isn’t just a “long shot”—it’s a practical, powerful resource that’s helping countless people across the country take that first step toward homeownership.
Your dream home might be closer than you think.
Ready to get started? Find down payment programs in your area today and see if you qualify. Scott and Caroline Doan are here to guide you every step of the way! Here is the link to our website to get started.
Looking to purchase? Reach out today and let’s explore your options together!
Dear Homeowners and future Homebuyers,
We're pleased to share some important news that could significantly impact your tax strategy and savings in the coming years. A recent change in federal tax law has temporarily increased the SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000 beginning in 2025. This change offers noteworthy advantages, especially for homeowners in high-tax states.
What Does the New SALT Deduction Mean?
Starting with the 2025 tax year, taxpayers can now claim up to $40,000 in SALT deductions. This is quadruple the previous limit of $10,000, which was in effect from 2018 through 2024. The deduction amount is set to increase slightly each year through 2029, after which it reverts to $10,000 unless Congress acts to extend or preserve the increase. Additionally, there is a phasedown for taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income over $500,000.
The new law also preserves the mortgage interest deduction at the levels established by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), allowing homeowners to continue claiming mortgage interest deductions, which are a significant benefit of homeownership.
Why Is Deductibility of Mortgage Interest and SALT Important?
The ability to deduct mortgage interest and state and local taxes from your federal return has been a cornerstone benefit of homeownership for over a century. Prior to the 2017 law, many homeowners relied heavily on itemized deductions. However, the TCJA limited the SALT deduction to $10,000 while nearly doubling the standard deduction, which led to a sharp decline—from 31% of taxpayers in 2017 to just 9% in 2020—of those itemizing their deductions, according to the Tax Policy Institute.
Higher-tax state homeowners, in particular, were disproportionately affected by the $10,000 cap. This advocacy-led change aims to make homeownership more affordable and attractive, fostering stronger communities and social benefits such as improved educational outcomes, civic engagement, and health.
How Do I Take Advantage of the New SALT Limit?
To benefit from these changes, you'll want to itemize deductions on IRS Form 1040 Schedule A. In addition to SALT, common deductible expenses include:
The law also restores deductibility of private mortgage insurance (PMI), which is often required for borrowers with less than 20% equity in their homes.
Additional Tips:
Consult with a qualified tax professional to ensure you leverage all available deductions and understand how the phasedown may affect high-income taxpayers.
Final Thoughts
These changes could have a meaningful impact on your tax savings and homeownership affordability. As policies evolve, we do our best to say informed and share the information they may benefit you the most.
When it is time to buyer or sell a home please call us.
Thank you Scott and Caroline Doan Realtors®
(951) 541-3498
Disclaimer:
This newsletter provides general information about recent tax law changes. It is not intended as tax advice. Please seek personalized guidance from a qualified tax professional or financial advisor before making any tax-related decisions.
Open house Sunday July 27th from Noon -4 pm in Bear Creek Golf Club. Discover the epitome of luxury living at 22910 Banbury Court, nestled in the prestigious Bear Creek community of Murrieta. This exquisite Mediterranean-style estate features 4 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and over 4,300 sq ft of beautifully designed living space. The home boasts high-end finishes, a chef’s kitchen, and a grand entryway, making it ideal for both entertaining and everyday comfort. Step outside to a resort-style backyard complete with a saltwater pool, spa, and outdoor kitchen, all surrounded by lush landscaping. Enjoy sustainable living with a paid-off solar system and a private casita for guests. Experience a lifestyle enriched by world-class amenities, including golf on a Jack Nicklaus designed course, tennis, and a fitness center. This home is the perfect blend of elegance and convenience, all at a competitive price.
Don't miss your chance to make it yours.
For more details Call or Text
Scott and Caroline Doan Realtors®
951-541-3498