The commercial real estate (CRE) sector has been through the wringer these past few years—pandemic disruptions, rate hikes, hybrid work, and the great office reckoning. Now, as we move through 2025, the big question is: are we on the road to recovery, or just pausing before the next challenge?

The State of the Market: A Cautious Balancing Act

Nationally, commercial real estate is in a transitional phase. Office vacancies remain high, industrial is still outperforming (though slowing from its pandemic-era boom), and multifamily is stabilizing after a flood of new supply. Retail continues to quietly reinvent itself—especially in mixed-use and experiential formats.

The overarching theme? Cautious optimism.
After a few volatile years, investors are testing the waters again—but with far more scrutiny. Higher borrowing costs and tighter lending standards are forcing deals to pencil out on fundamentals, not hype.

• Office: National vacancy rates hover near record highs (around 19%), especially for older Class B and C buildings. Tenants are favoring premium, amenity-rich spaces and flexible lease terms, leaving outdated properties struggling.
• Industrial: Still the market’s golden child, driven by e-commerce, logistics, and data demand. Vacancy remains historically low in many metros, though new supply is starting to level things out.
• Multifamily: After years of steep rent growth, the sector has hit a plateau. With a wave of new construction hitting the market, some softness is expected in the short term—but long-term fundamentals remain strong.
• Retail: The survivors of the e-commerce revolution are thriving. Grocery-anchored centers, lifestyle destinations, and mixed-use environments are seeing solid traffic and renewed investor interest.

The Capital Markets: High Rates, Low Leverage

The biggest drag on CRE performance continues to be the cost of money.
The Federal Reserve’s “higher for longer” stance has kept cap rates elevated and transaction volumes subdued. Refinancing older loans—especially those originated in the low-rate era—has become a headache for many owners. Still, cash buyers and well-capitalized investors are stepping in to take advantage of price resets.

We’re seeing a clear flight to quality: newer, well-located assets with strong tenants continue to attract capital, while underperforming properties are being repriced—sometimes dramatically.

Bright Spots: Innovation, Conversion, and Alternative Assets

Some of the most exciting developments in CRE aren’t about new buildings at all—they’re about new uses for old space.
Office-to-residential conversions are finally gaining traction, aided by local incentives and zoning flexibility. Meanwhile, investors are diversifying into alternative sectors like data centers, life sciences, senior housing, and cold storage, all of which are benefiting from long-term demographic and technological trends.

Even within traditional property types, sustainability and ESG compliance are no longer optional. Green certifications, efficient design, and climate resilience are becoming key drivers of tenant demand and financing eligibility.

The Forecast: 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead, analysts expect a slow but steady rebound across most commercial real estate sectors:

• Cap rates are expected to stabilize as interest rates plateau.
• Investment activity could rise 8–10% nationally as investor confidence improves.
• Industrial and data centers should maintain healthy rent growth.
• Office may see further price declines before bottoming out in 2026.
• Multifamily and retail are expected to normalize, with modest rent and occupancy growth.

In short, we’re entering an age of recalibration—where smart capital, disciplined underwriting, and creative repositioning separate the winners from the rest.

The Bottom Line

Commercial real estate in 2025 isn’t collapsing—it’s evolving.
Investors who adapt quickly to new market realities, embrace technology, and focus on quality assets in resilient markets will come out ahead. Whether you’re buying, selling, developing, or repositioning, the next phase of CRE will reward those who think long term and act decisively.

Want insights like this tailored to your local market or investment goals? Contact Anthony Guetzoian, Broker/Owner of Century 21 Valley Properties, at (818) 266-1100 for a private consultation.

As 2025 winds down, many buyers and sellers across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties are asking the same question: what will the housing market look like in 2026? While nobody has a crystal ball, trends are already emerging that give us a clear direction of where the market may head.

1. Mortgage Rates Could Finally Stabilize
After years of volatility, industry experts expect interest rates to level out in 2026. If stabilization holds, buyers who were hesitant in 2025 may re-enter the market, creating stronger demand across the LA and Ventura corridor.

2. Inventory Will Still Be Tight
Even with new construction projects, our region continues to face limited housing supply. In popular communities like Calabasas, Westlake Village, and Thousand Oaks, competition will likely remain strong. Sellers who price correctly will continue to have an advantage.

3. Lifestyle and Location Will Drive Choices
More buyers are prioritizing lifestyle—walkable neighborhoods, proximity to work-from-home amenities, and access to outdoor spaces. Ventura County, with its balance of affordability and coastal living, is becoming increasingly attractive for buyers leaving the LA core.

4. Sustainable Homes Are Gaining Value
Expect “green” features—solar panels, EV charging stations, and energy-efficient designs—to continue adding resale value. Luxury buyers in Hidden Hills, Agoura, and West Hills are leading the demand for eco-smart estates.

5. Insurance Costs Will Remain a Factor
Rising home insurance premiums, especially in hillside and high-fire-risk areas, will shape buyer decisions. Sellers who can show proactive mitigation efforts (like hardscape, fire-resistant roofing, and cleared defensible space) will stand out.

6. Tech-Savvy Buyers Will Dominate
From virtual tours to AI-driven property searches, 2026 will see an even greater reliance on technology in real estate. Buyers expect instant access to data, transparency in transactions, and a seamless digital experience. Agents who embrace this shift will deliver the most value.

7. Affordability Will Push Boundaries
As affordability challenges persist in the LA core, buyers will continue expanding their search into the Ventura corridor. Communities like Camarillo and Simi Valley may see increased demand, especially among first-time buyers and families looking for more space.

Bottom Line
The 2026 housing market in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties will be defined by stabilized rates, persistent inventory challenges, and lifestyle-driven decision-making. Sustainable homes and tech-forward real estate practices will shape the way we buy and sell. Sellers who prepare strategically and buyers who stay informed will both find opportunities in this evolving market.

If you’re considering buying or selling in 2026, now is the time to start planning. With over 30 years of experience helping clients succeed in the LA and Ventura market, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Call me directly at 818.266.1100 for a consultation.

— Anthony Guetzoian
Broker/Owner, Century 21 Valley Properties

At 12:01 a.m. on October 1, 2025, the U.S. federal government officially shut down after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. This marks the first shutdown since the historic 35-day standoff of 2018–2019. The impasse stems from disputes over healthcare subsidies, Medicaid cuts, and spending priorities, leaving millions of Americans uncertain about the days and weeks ahead.

While politicians battle over budgets, the shutdown has real-world consequences for federal workers, families, travelers, small businesses, and the broader economy. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening, who’s affected, and what to expect next.

Why the 2025 Shutdown Happened

The Senate rejected a short-term funding bill in a 55–45 vote, with Democrats blocking Republican proposals to cut healthcare programs and Republicans rejecting Democratic efforts to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) protections.

President Trump has framed the shutdown as an opportunity for fiscal reform, while Democrats accuse Republicans of targeting low-income Americans and essential services. With neither side backing down, the shutdown’s length remains uncertain.

Impact on Federal Workers and the Military

Federal employees and contractors are once again caught in the middle.

• Furloughed Workers (750K–800K): Placed on unpaid leave, barred from working, and reliant on savings or unemployment benefits.
• Essential Employees (~1M): TSA, FAA, and other frontline staff must continue working without immediate pay, risking burnout and service delays.
• Military & Veterans (2M personnel): Active-duty troops are still paid through prior-year funds, but Pentagon civilian staff face furloughs. Some veterans’ services, such as hotlines and benefits processing, are disrupted.

Bloomberg Economics estimates unemployment could rise by 0.3% if the shutdown lasts three weeks.

Public Services and Programs: What’s Open, What’s Not

Not all government programs stop during a shutdown. Mandatory programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid continue, but many discretionary services are paused. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Social Security & Medicare: Payments continue, but new applications and verifications are delayed.
• SNAP/WIC (Food Assistance): Funded through October, but risks disruption if the shutdown extends.
• National Parks & Museums: Trails remain open but unstaffed; visitor centers closed. Tourism losses could reach $1.5B per week.
• Air Travel: TSA and FAA staff remain on duty, but expect longer lines and potential delays due to limited support staff.
• Healthcare & Research: FDA food inspections and new drug approvals are halted; NIH suspends new patient admissions.
• Immigration & Courts: Essential enforcement continues, but civil and immigration court hearings are postponed.
• IRS, Passports & Loans: Refunds delayed, no new small business/student loans, and visa/passport processing stalls.
• Economic Data: Critical reports, including jobs and inflation numbers, are paused—adding uncertainty to financial markets.

Broader Economic and Social Consequences

Shutdowns don’t just disrupt government—they ripple across the entire economy.

• GDP & Markets: Each week could cut 0.1–0.5% off GDP growth, costing $1.5–$6B in lost activity. Stock volatility is expected, with gold and cryptocurrency gaining as “safe havens.”
• Local Economies: Communities near federal hubs, especially Washington D.C., feel the immediate hit as furloughed workers reduce spending. Tourism-heavy regions also suffer.
• Credit Ratings & Trust: Prolonged shutdowns risk another U.S. credit rating downgrade, erode public trust in government, and slow disaster relief and environmental protections.

What Happens Next?

Historically, U.S. government shutdowns last an average of 8–10 days, but this one could extend longer without bipartisan compromise. Lawmakers must eventually pass a continuing resolution that clears the Senate’s 60-vote threshold. Until then, millions of Americans will feel the strain of delayed paychecks, closed services, and mounting economic uncertainty.

Final Takeaway

The 2025 U.S. government shutdown is more than a political standoff—it’s a disruption that impacts everyday life, from air travel and food safety to small business loans and family budgets. Whether you’re a federal employee, a business owner, or simply planning a trip, staying informed is key.

For updates, check resources like USA.gov or your congressional representative’s official site.

👉 Question: How is the shutdown affecting you or your business? Share your experience below—I’d love to hear your perspective.

Luxury homes in Los Angeles and Ventura County are evolving. It’s no longer enough for a property to boast breathtaking views, resort-style pools, or a wine cellar fit for Napa Valley. Today’s affluent buyers want more: eco-friendly estates that blend sustainability with sophistication.

In 2025, “sustainable luxury living” is more than a trend — it’s the new gold standard for high-end real estate in Southern California.

🌍 Why Sustainability Matters in Luxury Homes

For luxury buyers, sustainability isn’t about cutting costs. It’s about future-proofing real estate investments while embracing healthier, eco-conscious living. Homes that integrate green design and energy-efficient features consistently command higher resale values, making them a smart choice for long-term wealth preservation.

In the Los Angeles and Ventura luxury real estate market, the message is clear: green is the new glamorous.

✨ Eco-Friendly Features Defining Luxury Estates

• Solar Integration & Energy Storage
  Rooftop solar panels paired with Tesla Powerwalls or similar battery systems ensure these high-end properties are both stylish and sustainable.
• Smart Water Conservation
  From drought-resistant landscaping in Calabasas to advanced irrigation systems in Malibu estates, luxury buyers demand water-smart solutions in Southern California.
• Sustainable Materials
  Reclaimed wood, eco-friendly stone, and low-VOC paints add both elegance and environmental responsibility to fine homes and estates.
• Smart Energy Efficiency
  Automated climate control, advanced insulation, and smart glass windows reduce energy use while enhancing the comfort of high-value properties.
• Wellness-Oriented Design
  Air and water purification systems, wellness suites, and biophilic design create healthier environments in estates across Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, and beyond.

📈 Market Advantage in Los Angeles & Ventura Luxury Real Estate

High-net-worth buyers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable luxury real estate in Los Angeles and Ventura County. Sellers who invest in eco-friendly upgrades gain a competitive edge, attracting international buyers, tech leaders, and eco-conscious investors who see sustainable homes as the future of fine living.

💡 Final Take

Sustainable luxury living is no longer optional — it’s expected. Whether it’s a hillside mansion in Calabasas, an oceanfront estate in Malibu, or a private retreat in Westlake Village, the most desirable homes in 2025 are green, smart, and wellness-driven.

If you’re ready to buy or sell a luxury home in Los Angeles or Ventura County, let’s talk about what sustainable features add the most value in today’s market.

📞 Contact Anthony Guetzoian, Broker/Owner of Century 21 Valley Properties, at 818.266.1100 for a private consultation with a local expert who’s been helping luxury buyers and sellers succeed for over 30 years.

As 2025 draws to a close, artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. From startups to Fortune 500 companies, AI is transforming how we work, innovate, and compete. But like any powerful tool, AI is a double-edged sword.

On one edge: unmatched efficiency, productivity, and new market opportunities. On the other: risks like job displacement, cybersecurity threats, and ethical dilemmas.

This blog explores how businesses can leverage AI responsibly—while avoiding its pitfalls. Whether you’re a CEO planning AI integration, an entrepreneur exploring AI tools, or an SMB owner looking for cost savings, here’s what you need to know to thrive in an AI-driven economy.

The Sharp Edge: AI’s Opportunities in 2025

AI adoption is no longer experimental—it’s delivering real ROI. In fact, 60% of executives rank AI as their top growth driver, and adoption is scaling rapidly.

Boosting Productivity and Innovation

AI is enhancing—not just replacing—human capabilities. Enterprises like Accenture are retraining massive workforces on AI tools, enabling employees to become AI-powered collaborators.

• Contract reviews, lead generation, and data analysis are increasingly handled by AI, freeing teams for higher-value tasks.
• In finance, logistics, and manufacturing, AI-driven automation is slashing costs and optimizing workflows.
• For small and medium businesses (SMBs), AI tools like predictive analytics and edge-based automation are reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Startups are already proving what’s possible—AI-first companies in “boring” industries like finance have scaled to hundreds of millions in revenue in record time.

Opening New Markets and Business Models

AI doesn’t just optimize—it creates new opportunities. Analysts predict $250–400 billion in annual enterprise AI spend in the U.S. alone.

• Multilingual AI, AI-driven customer support, and AI-powered product design are expanding global reach.
• New “AI-first” business models—from robotics in restaurants to AI-powered CRMs—are disrupting traditional industries.
• Founders and SMBs can build moats by solving real-world workflow gaps like compliance, permissions, and security that big models can’t handle alone.

The Blunt Edge: AI Risks and Challenges

Of course, AI’s power comes with real risks. The 2025 Cisco Cybersecurity Readiness Index found that 86% of leaders admit AI threats are outpacing their defenses.

Job Displacement and Workforce Shifts

AI is reshaping the job market:

• Entry-level white-collar jobs in law, consulting, and finance face automation risk.
• 95% of corporate GenAI pilots deliver little ROI, often because humans spend more time correcting AI’s mistakes.
• Freelancers and SMBs are increasingly hired for “AI cleanup”—fixing low-quality content or poorly generated designs.

The result? A paradox where AI boosts productivity but also deepens inequality.

Security, Ethics, and Regulation

The rise of deepfakes, AI phishing scams, and biased algorithms has made trust a top concern. Meanwhile, power is concentrating in a handful of AI firms—raising geopolitical and ethical questions.

Global regulators are tightening rules: GDPR, U.S. state privacy laws, and “sovereign AI” debates in Europe and Asia are shaping how companies can use data and deploy AI systems. Businesses that ignore compliance do so at their own risk.

5 Strategies for Businesses Using AI in 2025

To stay competitive, leaders need to harness AI’s upside while protecting against its risks. Here’s how:

1. Audit Your Workflows – Identify repetitive, automatable tasks, but preserve human oversight for high-stakes decisions.
2. Invest in Upskilling – Train teams to collaborate with AI tools, not just rely on them.
3. Prioritize Security and Compliance – Build in safeguards for data, privacy, and regulation from day one.
4. Diversify Your AI Stack – Avoid over-reliance on a single vendor. Mix open-source transparency with proprietary power.
5. Monitor the Big Picture – Stay ahead of labor market changes, regulation, and ethical debates to future-proof your strategy.

Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Business

Heading into 2026, AI will continue to separate business winners from laggards. The companies that succeed will be those that embrace AI for growth while managing its risks.

History has shown us the cost of unchecked automation—like Knight Capital’s $440 million trading glitch. The takeaway is clear: the future belongs to AI-assisted humans, not AI replacements.

👉 What about you? What’s the biggest AI opportunity or risk you see for 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective.

For more insights on AI in business, technology trends, and growth strategies, follow me here on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/c21anthony or subscribe to my blog.