Roger Flowers Realtor Blog

Local real estate insights, neighborhood stories, and practical home guidance for Redlands, Yucaipa, and the Inland Empire.

Category: Latest Posts

  • California Law Creates a Streamlined Path for Some Small-Lot Homes

    California Law Creates a Streamlined Path for Some Small-Lot Homes

    Here’s an update that could shape the future of housing choices in our communities: California’s Senate Bill 684 now provides a streamlined, 60-day approval process for small-lot subdivisions—up to 10 units—on qualified urban infill sites. This means certain projects can move forward without lengthy environmental reviews or public hearings, provided they meet specific size and unit requirements. For those considering building or investing in smaller residential developments around Redlands, Yucaipa, or across the Inland Empire, this law could open new doors for infill opportunities. With over two decades of experience guiding clients through changing regulations, I’m always watching legislation that may impact the way we buy, sell, or build homes in Southern California.

    Continue to full article

  • A Proud-Dad Spotlight: Sudsium Mobile Detailing

    A Proud-Dad Spotlight: Sudsium Mobile Detailing

    I’m proud to spotlight Sudsium, my son Faris’s mobile car-detailing business serving Redlands and Yucaipa. Sudsium brings car care directly to your driveway, making it easier to give your vehicle some attention without rearranging your day.

    Sudsium offers three service options: Exterior Reset, Interior Reset, and Complete Reset. Whether your car needs an outside refresh, an interior-focused reset, or a more comprehensive visit, you can explore the available options and find the right fit for your vehicle.

    This is simply a local family-business share from a proud dad—and a chance to support a hardworking entrepreneur in our community. To learn more or request a quote, visit Sudsium.com.

    Continue to full article

  • Fall in Redlands: The Kind of Place That Feels Like Home

    Fall in Redlands: The Kind of Place That Feels Like Home

    Fall is one of my favorite times to appreciate Redlands. The historic neighborhoods, mature trees, downtown businesses and community traditions are part of what gives the city its character. Real estate is about more than square footage—it is also about the place you get to call home.

    Continue to full article

  • Fall 2026 History Class

    Fall 2026 History Class

    Redlands has a story worth knowing—and the Fall 2026 History Class offers a wonderful way to explore it. The 56th annual local-history course begins Tuesday, October 13, and continues every Tuesday through November 17 at the A.K. Smiley Public Library Assembly Room.

    Over six in-person sessions, participants can learn more about the people, places, and events that shaped Redlands and the San Bernardino Valley. Whether you are a longtime resident, a recent arrival, or simply curious about the community you call home, this course provides an engaging opportunity to connect with the area’s past.

    At $30, the class is an accessible way to invest in local knowledge while meeting fellow residents who value the region’s heritage. Understanding the history of a neighborhood can deepen our appreciation for its architecture, landmarks, and sense of place—qualities that make Redlands such a special community.

    Mark your calendar and learn more at https://www.akspl.org/events/fall-2026-history-class/. Share this opportunity with a neighbor, friend, or future Redlands resident who would enjoy discovering the stories behind the San Bernardino Valley.

    Continue to full article

  • California headlines give us the big picture. Your next move in Redlands or Yucaipa needs a closer look at comparable homes, your budget, and your timeline.

    California headlines give us the big picture. Your next move in Redlands or Yucaipa needs a closer look at comparable homes, your budget, and your timeline.

    The California housing market continues to see modest growth, with the median home price now at $901,420 and mortgage rates hovering around 7%. While sales have ticked up slightly, activity is still below the 300,000-unit annual pace—largely a result of higher home prices and elevated mortgage costs making it tougher for many buyers to enter the market. In my work across Redlands, Yucaipa, and the broader Inland Empire, I’ve seen how these statewide trends play out locally. Staying informed about shifts like these is key to making confident real estate decisions, whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on your home’s value.

    Continue to full article

  • US Existing Home Sales Hit a 14-Month Low | Follow @RogerSoCalHomes for Redlands, Yucaipa & SoCal home tips. What real estate question should I cover next?

    US existing-home sales dipped to a 14-month low in Mid-Q3, with the annual pace dropping to 3.98 million—down 2% from the previous month. For those navigating the Southern California market, especially here in Redlands, Yucaipa, and the wider Inland Empire, these national numbers often set the tone for what we experience locally. Mortgage rates averaged around 7% for a 30-year fixed loan, and supply rose to 4.9 months—meaning buyers are seeing more options as inventory builds up. Median home prices hit $429,100, a record for this time of year, largely driven by strength in the higher-priced segments. Even so, steady job growth and rising wages are helping to support demand. With more choices and a bigger supply pool, buyers are finding new opportunities to negotiate. In Mid-Q3, first-time buyers accounted for 30% of purchases, 27% of deals were cash, and homes spent an average of 31 days on the market. As someone who’s helped clients buy and sell throughout the Inland Empire for over two decades, I always encourage informed decisions—especially as conditions shift and new opportunities emerge.

  • Lappert’s Ice Cream – Downtown Redlands, CA

    Lappert’s Ice Cream – Downtown Redlands, CA

    Looking for a delicious way to enjoy Downtown Redlands? Lappert’s Ice Cream at 206 E State St is a charming local stop for creamy scoops, friendly moments, and a little everyday indulgence. Whether you are meeting a friend or treating the family, it is an easy addition to your downtown plans.

    What makes a neighborhood ice cream shop special is more than the dessert. It is the experience of slowing down, sharing a laugh, and creating small traditions close to home. Lappert’s fits naturally into a Downtown Redlands outing, especially when paired with a leisurely stroll through the surrounding area.

    Locals can make it a regular tradition, while newcomers and visiting guests can use it as a tasty introduction to the community. Stop by after exploring downtown, bring someone along, and discover your favorite way to enjoy the shop.

    Save this local spotlight and plan your next sweet stop at Lappert’s Ice Cream. As a Redlands real estate agent, I love highlighting the neighborhood businesses and everyday experiences that make living here feel special—one scoop at a time.

    Continue to full article

  • Buying in Redlands or Yucaipa? An offer is about more than the price. Repairs, closing costs, and timing can all be part of the conversation, depending on the property and seller.

    Which would help you most: a lower price, help with closing costs, or repairs completed before you move in?

    Follow @RogerSoCalHomes for practical Inland Empire home-buying and selling guidance.
    Roger Flowers | Realty Masters & Associates | CA DRE

  • California, Texas and Florida Lead $279 Billion U.S. Remodeling Market in 2026

    California, Texas and Florida Lead $279 Billion U.S. Remodeling Market in 2026

    It’s impressive to see California, Texas, and Florida at the forefront of the $279 billion U.S. remodeling market projected for 2026. California alone led the charge with $22.2 billion in remodeling activity—accounting for a significant portion of the nation’s renovations. Despite rising costs, remodeling spending increased by 10% from 2023 to 2025, fueled by older homes and more homeowner equity. In Southern California, especially places like Redlands and Yucaipa, I’ve seen firsthand how homeowners are investing in updates to add value and comfort. Knowing where our market stands helps my clients make smart, informed decisions about their next steps—whether you’re thinking of a remodel or considering a move.

    Continue to full article

  • Will a cooling labor market keep mortgage rates below 7% in 2026?

    Will a cooling labor market keep mortgage rates below 7% in 2026?

    As we look ahead to 2026, many in our local real estate community are watching mortgage rates closely. Recent labor data points to slower job growth and a slight dip in unemployment, but that's mainly due to fewer people participating in the workforce. While some are hopeful this cooling trend could help keep mortgage rates under 7%, inflation pressures are expected to stick around—possibly through 2026. There’s even talk of a potential rate hike in early 2027 as the Fed works toward its 2% inflation goal, all while navigating challenges from global events and rapid advances in AI. For buyers and sellers in Redlands, Yucaipa, and the Inland Empire, staying informed about these trends helps us all make smarter decisions in a shifting market landscape. I’m always here to help you understand what these shifts mean for your next move.

    Continue to full article