Blog
In-depth analysis on land use, entitlements, capital markets, and development strategy across Southern California.
- Fed's Rate Pause: What CRE Borrowers Need to Know — The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate at 3.50%–3.75% at both its January and March 2026 meetings — pausing a cycle of three consecutive cuts. For CRE borrowers in Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties, the rate environment has stabilized, but it has not reset.
- AI Tools for Real Estate Developers in 2026 — A practical guide to the best AI tools for real estate developers and investors in 2026 — from due diligence and underwriting to construction management and market analysis. What works, what doesn't, and how to implement it.
- How to Read a Real Estate Pro Forma: A Developer's Guide — A comprehensive guide to reading and building a real estate pro forma — covering revenue assumptions, operating expenses, NOI, debt service, cash-on-cash return, IRR, and equity multiple.
- AB 2345 vs. SB 35: Which Applies to Your LA Project? — Two of the most important tools available to developers in Los Angeles are AB 2345 (the enhanced Density Bonus Law) and SB 35 (Streamlined Ministerial Approval). Both can dramatically accelerate timelines — but they work differently and apply in different situations.
- Bridge Loans vs. Construction Loans for Developers — Two of the most commonly used — and most commonly confused — debt products are bridge loans and construction loans. Understanding how they work, when each is appropriate, and how lenders underwrite them is essential for any developer or investor in commercial real estate.
- How Entitlements Work in the City of Los Angeles — For developers, investors, and landowners unfamiliar with the process, entitlements can feel like a black box — expensive, slow, and unpredictable. This guide breaks down exactly how the process works, what approvals you need, and how to navigate the City of Los Angeles planning system.
- Owner's Rep vs. General Contractor: Do You Need Both? — Understanding the distinction between an Owner's Rep and a General Contractor — and knowing when you need each — can save you significant money, time, and risk on your development project.