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Questions for the Introspective CEO
BY KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
The first five months of 2025 are in the history books. How did your company do? How did you do?
One big challenge facing nearly every CEO is getting high enough above the trees to actually see the forest.
Having a tactical orientation is fine but in every organization, the CEO alone owns the strategic. Simply put, anyone can drive, but the strategic leader looks at the map, determines the destination and plans the route. This function cannot be delegated.
Napoleon Hill’s book “Think and Grow Rich” is a classic on success. Hill’s research was conducted during a time of economic uncertainty and disruption; not too dissimilar to what we are now experiencing.
Regular reflection by the CEO is essential to having insight in order to have better results. Here are fifteen questions, adapted to 2025, from Hill’s book worth asking. You can also share them with your management team to get their perspective.
If I had been the purchaser of my own company’s goods and services in the first five months of this year, would I have been satisfied with what I received?
Have the purchasers of my company’s goods and services been satisfied with what they bought, and if not, why not? (What am I doing to find out?).
In what ways has my company rendered more service and better service than what the customer has paid for? (How do I know?).
Has my company delivered service to customers in the best possible quality which it was capable or could we improve any part of the service? (Can we do better and if so, what, when, and how?).
Has my company delivered to customers in the greatest possible quantity (volume) which we were capable? (Or do they want less?).
Have I personally attained the goal for which I established as my own objective for the year? (This question is based
Having a tactical orientation is fine but in every organization, the CEO alone owns the strategic.
on Hill’s research that suggests a person who desires success should have a definitive yearly objective to be attained as part of a major life objective. The question before this question is ‘what is my own goal for 2025?’).
Have I been persistent in following my plans through to completion? (Am I committed? How am I measuring this?).
Have I reached decisions promptly and definitely on all occasions? (If I am delaying, what is the source of the delay?).
Have my opinions and decisions been based upon guesswork or accuracy of analysis and thought? (Am I guilty of deciding based on what I hear from the last person I speak to or my own prejudices?).
Have I permitted the habit of procrastination to decrease my efficiency, and if so, in what ways? (Why am I procrastinating?).
How much time have I devoted to unprofitable efforts which I might have used to better advantage? (What do I need to stop, start and stay doing to get me to my goals?).
How may I re-budget my time and change my habits so I will be more efficient during the next seven months of 2025? (Just because there are 168 hours in a week do I have to work them all? How can I actually work smarter?).
Has the spirit of my conduct been harmonious and cooperative at all times? (Am I setting an example to be a pleasant person to all I come into contact with and deal with?).
Has my conduct toward my associates been such that it has induced them to respect me? (And, am I respectful towards them?).
Have I been open-minded and tolerant in connection with all subjects?
The easiest way to tackle these questions is to address five each day over a period of three days.
Don’t shy away from asking yourself these questions. The answers are intended to improve your focus, your effectiveness, and have a better organization both internally and externally.
The strategic leader looks at the map, determines the destination and plans the route. This function cannot be delegated. ©ADOBE STOCK
Avoiding and Treating Insect Stings
WBy Patrick Moody Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
hat do your perfume, picnic lunch and bright orange shirt have in common? They could be inviting trouble your way. Each of these items can attract stinging insects to you as the insects search for food. And those insects can be hard to avoid. You’ve probably had close encounters with stinging insects around your home and outdoors. And you may even have experienced the pain of one or more stings. If you have, you’re not alone—thousands of people go to emergency rooms or urgent care clinics each year because of insect stings, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
But there are ways you can reduce your risk of being bugged by insect stings—and possible allergic reactions to those stings.
THE PRIME PESTS
All kinds of insects are around, especially in summer and early fall. To help reduce your risk of being stung, it helps if you recognize the insects that sting people the most. They include:
Yellow Jackets These black and yellow insects usually build their paper-mâché like nests underground. They may also make nests in woodpiles or the walls of frame buildings.
Honeybees are dark brown with yellow markings and look almost fuzzy. They make their honeycomb homes in hollow trees or holes in buildings. Africanized, or “killer,” honeybees will live in just about any spot that is protected from the weather, including inside old tires, in holes in the ground and between fence posts.
Paper Wasps Their long, narrow bodies may be black, brown or red and have yellow markings. They build hanging nests, frequently under the eaves of a home, in a bush or in piles of wood.
Hornets may be black or brown and can have markings that vary from white to orange and yellow. Their papery nests are usually high up in a tree or house gables.
Fire ants These relatives of bees and wasps are reddish-brown in color. They build large mounds to live in.
Honeybees leave their stinger in your skin the first time they sting you, while the others may be able to sting you multiple times.
Africanized honeybees can be very aggressive and may attack in a swarm.
AVOIDING THE STING
You may encounter stinging insects as you try to enjoy the summer sun, mow your lawn, or have a backyard barbecue. They often fly around in search of nectar and are attracted to bright colors, perfume and the smell of food.
These insects are also very protective of their homes and the surrounding areas. They may
see you as a threat, even if you’re just passing by, and try to chase you away.
Try these tips from the ACAAI and the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology (AAAAI) to keep you and your family safe from stings:
Don’t disturb the homes of stinging insects. Have any nests near your house removed by a professional exterminator.
See HENRY MAYO, page 18
New Solar, Medical Office Buildout, New Preschool
DEVELOPING STORIES
BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor
The city of Santa Clarita’s Planning Division stayed busy last month with a slew of projects to consider, from a buildout for a medical office on the west side to a new place for little ones to a solar project in Placerita Canyon, among others.
The city also recently announced its capital improvement projects plan for the year, which include park upgrades, a major new park and progress on a roller rink.
The capital-improvement allocation for the city’s 2025-26 fiscal year starting July 1 is $81.5 million, which “includes prioritized projects such as parks, buildings, paseos, trails, street improvements that enhance the quality of life to residents in the community,” according to city officials.
Via Princessa Park, a $34.5 million plan for a 34-acre park along Via Princessa, northeast of the intersection of Whites Canyon Road and Via Princessa, is the biggest expenditure on the list.
The city also budgeted $3 million to upgrade the existing intersections of Valencia Boulevard and McBean Parkway, and Valencia Boulevard at Mall Entrance to enhance traffic circulation and maximize capacity, per the city. The proposed improvements will modify existing medians, striping, signals and landscaping.
The city also decided to hold off on making any major decisions for its MetroWalk project, but it did give the developer more time to figure out its funding subsidies for affordable housing. The project also sparked a broader discussion on the city’s policies regarding affordable housing, which did not offer much guidance in the MetroWalk situation. There will be a later discussion on the city’s affordable housing policy in the fall, according to city staff.
The capacity for the area will definitely need to be adjusted if the mall’s revisioning ends up putting more than 2,000 homes on top of retail in the area, as has
MOSTAFA / THE SIGNAL been discussed.
Speaking of revisioning, Shadowbox is getting a one-year extension on its zoning changes, even as the rumors swirl of the studio plan becoming hundreds and hundreds of apartments or condos.
The entrance to Placerita Canyon at 12th Street was discussed for approximately 400 units during a recent school district meeting in Newhall. The city said no formal plans have been submitted for the property.
Just down the street in Placerita Canyon, The Master’s University “is looking to improve its sustainabiity and reduce operating costs by installing PV solar.”
The location of the project is recorded as 24728 Quigley Canyon Road, which is currently listed as a parking lot on the campus next to the university’s school of music.
There’s also good news for those who might be looking to enroll students of a much younger age. Due to the success of its home business, Superstarz Academy is growing and opening a location at 23860 Copper Hill Drive.
The 4,500-square-foot project seeking approval is for a children’s daycare facility intended to go into an in-line space within a neighborhood retail center that was originally occupied by a branch bank, according to the application.
“It’s a different type of preschool where it’s basically built on empowering the children,” said Robert Dorian, who’s expanding the family business with his wife, Nadeen.
The business is hoping to open by August, Dorian said, adding the site improvements are still being completed. The playground is to be constantly monitored, according to the application, which also states there will be a perimeter fence and fabric shade structures over the playground equipment.
The medical project under consideration is a renovation for the medical office complex on Tourney Road, specifically the one operated by Kaiser Permanente.
Built back in 2002, the nearly 14-acre property has three structures: the 220,000-square-foor main building, the 1,700-square-foot chemical storage building and a central plant.
The improvements consist of installation of vehicular access gates at two existing entries, four new drive aisles for parking circulation, biofiltration areas and repaving of paths and accessibleparking stalls. As a result of the site improvements, eight trees and 45 parking stalls will be removed, and 11 new trees will be planted to replace the removed ones.
The city is reviewing plans to change the medical office plaza on Tourney Road. PHOTO BY HABEBA
Thanks to the explosion of ecommerce over the past couple decades, consumers can find virtually any product or service they can think of online. In fact, the consumer ecommerce market is expected to approach $6 trillion by 2027, according to the International Trade Administration, up from roughly $4 trillion in 2024.
A diverse collection of product segments is driving this growth, including everything from fashion and furniture to food and beverage.
While major marketplace retailers still lead the category, ecommerce has become commonplace among small businesses, too. In fact, by the end of 2023, an estimated 80% of small businesses had at least basic ecommerce capabilities, according to a report by Digital Commerce 360.
However, small businesses are grappling with challenges such as inflation, supply chain issues and keeping pace with major retailers, among others, that are driving a variety of ecommerce trends in 2025 and beyond, including:
Video Content
Spurred by social media, video content is in high demand on ecommerce sites, too. Videos that explain how to use products, offer tips for using them and demonstrate projects that were completed using a product all earn favor with shoppers.
In addition, videos that highlight product features, video reviews on social media and “live shopping events” on the social channels of ecommerce retailers can provide a more appealing interactive experience for shoppers.
Inclusive of the “live shopping events” trends, livestreaming is often popular among consumers as it can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out), leading to enhanced brand loyalty and engagement. Short-form videos sweeping social media also drive engagements and offer a quick, appealing way to demonstrate new or popular products.
Personalized Products
Ecommerce provides opportunities for shoppers who appreciate buying products that are uniquely their own. Online
buying platforms that allow for customization of products such as shoes, clothing and drinkware can create buyer engagement and earn loyal shoppers who know they can purchase the items they want exactly to their own specifications.
In fact, a survey by McKinsey Insights found 80% of loyal customers prefer shopping with brands that offer tailored choices and personalized experiences. From color selection and accessories to performance variations, custom options can help create a highly personalized shopping experience that allow buyers to interact more directly than they would for a standardized transaction.
Beyond the initial purchase, customized reports and shipping notifications are also becoming the norm. Shippers can alert customers to their products’ delivery status — including any delays or changes — via email, text, video message or, in some cases, a customizable dashboard where consumers can view incoming shipments tied to their account or address, request a different delivery time or location, pre-sign for packages and more.
Micro Purchasing Moments
You may think phenomena like impulse buys or convenience purchases are reserved for brick-and-mortar stores, but micro-purchasing trends suggest otherwise. These purchases are typically made
by someone looking for a quick solution or information in a hurry from a mobile device, such as comparing two or more similar products and clicking a “buy now” link, ordering and paying for food ahead of time to skip the line, making a hotel or excursion reservation while traveling or looking up movie showtimes and purchasing tickets from the same page.
Ecommerce sites that can establish themselves as a resource, make information easy to digest and simplify the purchasing process are earning customers (and revenue).
Flexible Payment Options
Online purchases were once limited almost exclusively to credit card purchases, but over time, businesses have granted greater flexibility to shoppers when it comes to collecting payment. While this trend has been growing for several years, many contemporary ecommerce sites now accept credit or debit cards, online checks, digital wallet and mobile payment services, cryptocurrency and even installment payments via third-party providers.
By 2029, the third-party payment market is expected to almost double from $62.5 billion in 2024, according to findings from Mordor Intelligence.
Honoring SCV’s ‘Power Brokers of 2024’ in Commercial Real Estate
BY ONDRÉ SELTZER PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) invests in local businesses and attracting companies to the area, focusing on industries that offer high-quality, high-paying jobs. Attracting businesses requires collaboration among the SCVEDC and economic development partners, including dedicated commercial real estate brokers who help secure their strategic locations. Each year, we honor the top brokers contributing the most economic impact in the Santa Clarita Valley.
COMMERCIAL MARKETS - INDUSTRIAL & OFFICE
According to CoStar, in early 2025, Santa Clarita Valley’s industrial real estate sector tightened slightly, with the vacancy rate decreasing from 5.1% (Q1) to 3.7% (Q2) after the first quarter of positive net absorption since Q1 2023. Compared with the broader Los Angeles market’s 6.0% industrial vacancy and the Inland Empire’s 7.7% vacancy this quarter, SCV remains one of the most in-demand submarkets in Southern California. Despite some tumultuous times for the office market, there have been early signs of recovery, recording positive net absorption of 52,000 square feet over the past two quarters, and a vacancy rate in Q2 2025 of 12.3% compared to 16.96% a year ago. Medical offices are the standout industry keeping the office market moving, followed by professional business services.
UPCOMING AND ONGOING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN SCV
Several prominent developments under construction or in the pipeline promise to keep our commercial real estate market on its growth trajectory. To the West, FivePoint Valencia is reshaping the Valley with a 15,000acre master-planned community, set to deliver over 21,000 homes, 11.5 million square feet of job-generating commercial space, and 10,000 acres of open space and trails in a phased build-out over the next two to three decades. In Canyon Country, the Sand Canyon Plaza project on an 80-acre site is adding 580 residential units — 148 detached homes, 120 townhomes, and 312 apartments — and retail
amenities like Sprouts Farmers Market. The proposed Princessa Crossroads Specific Plan also covers 146 acres next to Element US Space & Defense and the new Sheriff’s Station. It aims to deliver up to 300 multifamily apartments and 1.5 million square feet of business park, commercial, and light industrial spaces, including extending Via Princessa.
To see the full list of our 2024 Power Brokers, look for our ad on the back cover of this issue, visit our website’s blog, or follow us on social media. The SCVEDC team is proud to partner with the brokerage community to continue our mission of growing quality jobs in the Santa Clarita Valley.
We’re thrilled to invite you to join us in celebrating the exciting new businesses opening in our community! Each grand opening is not just a milestone for these businesses but also a chance for all of us to come together and support our local economy.
From marking special occasions to recognizing remarkable achievements, we feel honored to share in your celebrations. Our grand opening and ribbon-cutting events are FREE and open to everyone to attend! It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community members, meet the passionate individuals behind these new ventures, and explore what they have to offer.
Let’s show our support and make these celebrations unforgettable! Bring your friends and family, and let’s celebrate the growth and vibrancy of our community together. We can’t wait to see you there!
Congratulations to Sanaya Beauty Studio on your grand opening in May. Go visit them at 24422 Chestnut St #5, Santa Clarita. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Celebrating SCV Businesses
Congratulations to Valley Oaks Village on your grand re-opening in May. Go visit them at 24700 Valley Street, Santa Clarita. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them.
Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
& Greg Bell, Co-Owners of Valley Oaks Village on their grand re-opening. Photo
Whether you’re launching a brand-new business or celebrating an important anniversary, we’d love to celebrate you with a memorable ribbon cutting ceremony.
This is the perfect opportunity to showcase your business, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and celebrate your hard work and success.
Email us at hello@scvchamber.com to learn more about how we can assist in organizing your ribbon cutting or grand opening.
Monica Fawcett, Economic Development Associate with the City of Santa Clarita congratulates Ricardo Corrales and Deepsana Khadka of Sanaya Beauty Salon on their grand opening. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Shannon Hurst, Field Representative for Congressman George Whitesides congratulates Kristina Bell
credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Congratulations to Encore Gas & Supply on your grand opening in May. Go visit them at 25371 Rye Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: SchlickArt A Visual Marketing Company
Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo congratulates Ben Anderson, President of Encore Gas and Supply on their grand opening.
Photo credit: SchlickArt A Visual Marketing Company
Celebrating SCV Businesses
Congratulations to Core Optometry on your grand opening in May. Go visit them at 16522 Soledad Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita.
Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Isabell Yaralian, Assistant Field Deputy for LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger congratulates Suparna Bajaj Dhakal & Aarohan Dhakal Owners of Core Optometry on their grand opening. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
We invite you to join us for an exciting and dynamic evening at our June Business After Hours Mixer with CMIT Solutions at Lucky Luke Brewing. This is more than just a networking event—it’s an opportunity to engage with fellow business owners, leaders, and community members in a relaxed and welcoming setting. By participating, you’ll not only expand your professional network, but you’ll also help strengthen the local business community and drive collaboration that leads to success for all. Our chamber thrives because of active, involved members like you, and your presence at this event is a chance to contribute to that collective growth. Share ideas, discuss challenges, and explore new opportunities to grow your business while building lasting relationships. This is an evening of community, connection, and involvement—essential ingredients for a prosperous future. Don’t miss the chance to be part of something bigger and make an impact in the business community. We can’t wait to see you there!
To view our full calendar and event details go to www.SCVChamber.com or scan the QR Code to the right.
Celebrating SCV Businesses
Going the Extra Mile: Walk the Talk
BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
In both gyms and offices, there’s an unspoken rule: leaders should walk the talk. But what happens when your fitness trainer is out of breath after one flight of stairs, or your boss treats deadlines like polite suggestions?
Let’s start with private fitness trainers — the supposed paragons of health. These are the folks we turn to for motivation, guidance, and the occasional guilt trip when we skip leg day. So, it can be more than a little jarring when the person coaching you through a HIIT workout looks like they haven’t done a jump-
ing jack since high school. It’s like hiring a financial advisor who proudly announces they’re “bad with money.”
Now, no one’s saying a personal trainer has to look like they just stepped off a fitness magazine cover, but there’s a certain expectation that they at least practice what they preach. If your trainer is sipping soda during your plank holds and complaining about how sore they are from “taking the stairs once last week,” it sends a mixed message. Can they still be knowledgeable? Absolutely. But motivation? That’s going to be a tougher sell.
This isn’t just a gym problem. The working world has its fair share of “do as I say, not as I do” leaders. You know the type: the manager who reminds everyone to be punctual, then shows up 15 minutes late to every meeting. Or the supervisor who preaches teamwork but vanishes when the group project gets tough. These leaders may have impressive résumés, but their example — or lack thereof — creates a workplace atmosphere that says, “Just try not to get caught.”
The result? Employees mirror what they see. If the boss barely answers emails, the team starts getting really comfortable with the “mark as unread” feature. If leadership is disorganized or disengaged, morale dips, turnover rises, and productivity heads out for an early lunch.
Here’s the thing: leading by example isn’t about perfection. It’s about effort and consistency. Just like a trainer doesn’t need six-pack abs to be credible, a manager doesn’t need to be a productivity machine 24/7. But if you’re encouraging your team to meet deadlines while you’re known for ghosting the project tracker, you’ve got a credibility problem. People notice when there’s a gap between what you say and what you do — kind of like when your trainer tells you to cut carbs, then Instagrams their third donut of the day.
The solution? Self-awareness and a commitment to improvement. Fitness trainers should maintain a reasonable level of fitness — not just for
appearances, but to be physically capable and emotionally credible. That might mean brushing up on techniques, staying active outside of sessions, or at the very least, not getting winded during warmups.
Workplace leaders, on the other hand, need to embody the culture they want to create. That means showing up, owning mistakes, recognizing others, and putting in the kind of effort they’d want from their team. Bonus points for remembering people’s names and not replying to emails with just a thumbs-up emoji. Organizations can also help by creating environments that support wellness, accountability, and growth — for everyone, from the front desk to the corner office. Because when leaders lead well, everyone wins.
It’s often said that children learn best by three things — example, example and example. As a manager, if you want your team to be on time, YOU must be on time. If you want your team to be positive, solution-minded, and customerfocused, they must see those attributes in YOU. And for the out-of-shape fitness trainer who’s looking for more private clients — may I suggest less talking and more walking?
Paul Butler is a Santa Clarita resident and a client partner with Newleaf Training and Development of Valencia (newleaftd.com). For questions or comments, email Butler at paul.butler@newleaftd.com.
Legislative Fixes to Benefit Wildfire Victims
BY JEFF PRANG
Los Angeles County Assessor
When disaster strikes suddenly and severely, people rightly look to the government for help. The recent wildfires in Los Angeles County have been devastating, with more than 200,000 residents evacuated, over 23,000 structures damaged or destroyed, and 29 lives lost. The impact of this unprecedented event will be felt for years to come.
Senate Bill 663
At the Assessor’s Office, we have been working proactively to support affected property owners. We are evaluating every property in the disaster zones — regardless of whether the owner has filed an application for disaster relief. So far, we have completed assessment reductions for 18,000 of the 23,500 impacted parcels. About 60% of those reductions were based on Misfortune and Calamity (M&C) claims submitted by property owners. The remaining 40% were completed through our own proactive reassessments even though claims had not yet been filed. The remaining 5,500 parcels require further review and will be addressed in the coming months.
Because existing laws impacting property assessment and taxes can often be inflexible and unforgiving, I am sponsoring several pieces of legislation aimed at providing more flexible and meaningful support to disaster victims. Here are several key bills currently moving through the Legislature:
Would extend the M&C claim filing deadline from 12 to 24 months. It would also extend the period in which property owners are able to rebuild their substantially damaged or destroyed property and retain their pre-fire property tax base from five to eight years. Finally, it would preserve pre-fire use-based exemptions (non-profits, religious institutions, etc.) for properties affected by the disaster until they are replaced, rebuilt, or returned to their prior exempt use.
Assembly Bill 245
Would similarly extend the period in which property owners are able to rebuild their property and retain their pre-fire tax base from five to eight years. Additionally, it would allow assessors to consider factors like damage, depreciation, removal, and other circumstances related to the fires when determining a property’s 2025 taxable value, whereas current law does not allow for such factors to be considered until 2026.
Senate Bill 293
Some homeowners inherited
replacement of their original structure — may face an unanticipated property tax increase simply for complying with construction standards designed to help fire victims.
property from their parents without ever recording the change on the title. Failure to make required changes may prevent those homeowners from accessing tax relief and subject them to back taxes. SB 293 would extend the filing period for Propositions 58 and 19 parent-child transfer property tax exclusion claims needed to resolve inheritance-related title issues for properties damaged by an M&C from six months to three years.
Assembly Bill 1253
I am profoundly disappointed that AB 1253, authored by Assemblyman Nick Schultz, D-Burbank, a common-sense fire relief bill I proudly sponsored, was ‘held’ in the Assembly Appropriations Committee and will not move forward this legislative session.
AB 1253 was crafted to bring fairness and clarity to wildfire victims who are attempting to rebuild their lives after devastating losses. Under current law, property owners who choose to rebuild using the emergency building codes that allow up to a 110%
Normally, under California law, rebuilding a structure beyond what is deemed “substantially equivalent,” would result in an assessment change and a property tax increase. AB 1253 would have aligned assessment standards with these disaster-related building code provisions, protecting these homeowners from an added financial burden during an already traumatic recovery process.
AB 1253 was endorsed by California Assessors Association, of which I serve as President, and received the support from the Los Angeles City Council and the Mayor of Pasadena.
The failure to approve this bill is a setback for disaster recovery efforts in Los Angeles County and across California. Wildfire survivors deserve compassion and support, not penalties for rebuilding in conformance with the Governor’s Disaster Proclamation. We should be doing everything in our power to ease their path to recovery — not making it harder.
For more information about the Assessor’s Office and its tax-saving programs, visit assessor.lacounty.gov. Prang leads the largest local public property assessment agency in the nation. His office of about 1,400 appraisers and support staff work to create an accurate and timely property Assessment Roll.
California State Capitol in Sacramento. ©ADOBESTOCK
Santa Clarita Valley Market Listings Grow Again
BY DAVID WALKER
For The Santa Clarita Valley Business Journal
Santa Clarita Valley home and condominium sales declined during April while resale prices posted modest increases and active listings surged to levels not seen since 2019, the Southland Regional Association of Realtors reported in the latest housing data available.
The numbers indicate a huge rise in available homes for those looking to get into the market.
The association reported 566 active listings of singlefamily homes plus 234 condominium listings. The home inventory was 70% higher than a year ago while the condominium tally was up 48.1%. Condo listings have not declined compared to the prior year since February 2024 while the April total was the highest for any month since July 2019.
“Despite the double shock of January’s devastating local wildfires and more recent widespread uncertainty regarding the direction of the national economy, the local real estate market remained busy while active listings of properties continued to rise,” said Anthony Bedgood, president of the 10,000-member
Southland Regional Association of Realtors. “Resale prices may still be rising, but the increases are in the low singledigits, and lower price hikes may be an indicator of what many people think about local housing opportunities.
“Buyers have more housing options than at any time in recent memory with inventory up and sellers increasingly willing to offer concessions,” he said. “It would be helpful if interest rates were lower, but rates in the 6% range appear to be with us for well into the future.”
The median price of homes that changed owners during April was $875,000, which was identical to March though up 1.9% from April 2024. The condominium median price — meaning half the sales were higher and half were lower — came in at $625,000, up 4.0% from a year ago. Both median prices were below their record highs of $645,000 for condos and $910,000 for single-family homes.
“Given the challenges presented by the wildfires and tariffs, buyers and sellers need Realtors expertise more than ever,” said Valerie Biletsky, SRAR’s chief executive officer. “With all the uncertainty, it’s unsurprising that pending sales are down, but the
increase in listings suggests there is great opportunity for anyone hoping to buy a home.”
The local data also reflects state and national trends, according to the data from the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. Sales dipped in the Northeast and West, grew in the Midwest and were unchanged in the South.
Existing-home sales slid 0.5% month-over-month to a seasonally adjusted rate of 4 million in April 2025. Year-over-year, sales retreated 2% for the national picture, according to the NAR.
The home inventory was 70% higher than a year ago while the condominium tally was up 48.1%.
The experts are hoping that help with available financing will be a big component in achieving more sales.
“Home sales have been at 75% of normal or prepandemic activity for the past three years, even with seven million jobs added to the economy,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Pent-up housing demand continues to grow, though not realized. Any meaningful decline in mortgage rates will help release this demand.”
The 126 open escrows — which are a measure of future sales totals — reported at the end of April were down 40% from a year ago while 47 condo pending escrows were down 33%.
Local Realtors assisted the close of escrow on 168 singlefamily homes, down 8.2% compared to a year ago, and
60 condominiums, down 4.4% compared to April 2024.
SRAR’s Income-to-Loan guide for January found that an income of $231,575 was needed to qualify for an 80% loan of $700,000 on a Santa Clarita Valley median-priced home of $875,000. With the national average interest rate of 6.88%, the income needed to qualify fell 0.5%.
The monthly PITI — principle, interest, taxes and insurance payments — would come to $5,789.
Chartered by the National Association of Realtors in 1920, the SRAR is the voice for real estate in San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. With nearly 11,000 members, SRAR serves as a trusted resource and partner to the real estate profession and the community at large.
Courtesy SRAR
Host with Confidence: Professional Meeting and Event Spaces at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center
BY CASSIDY BUTOW
In today’s competitive environment, where you host your meetings, trainings, and events says as much about your organization as the agenda itself. You’ll find a venue designed to support professional excellence at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center at College of the Canyons.
sity Center offers organizations an accessible and impressive venue for gatherings of all types and sizes. Whether you are planning a leadership retreat, an industry conference, or a corporate training session, the University Center provides flexible meeting spaces that can accommodate groups of up to 200.
style events.
Located conveniently off the I-5 freeway in Santa Clarita just minutes from Town Center, major hotels, and premier dining and entertainment destinations like Six Flags Magic Mountain, the Univer-
Our event spaces feature advanced technology to ensure a seamless experience, including high-speed internet access, multimedia presentation capabilities, and adaptable room configurations. With flexible setups tailored to your specific needs, our facilities can accommodate everything from boardroomstyle meetings to banquet-
What truly distinguishes the University Center is our commitment to outstanding service. We provide attentive support throughout the planning process to help ensure your event runs smoothly. With flexible spaces, advanced technology, and a responsive staff ready to assist with your needs, the University Center offers a professional environment designed to help your event succeed.
In addition to its eventhosting capabilities, the University Center is a hub of higher education, partnering with leading universities to bring bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs to the Santa Clarita Valley.
Economic DEvElopmEnt corporation
Econo Watch
By choosing the University Center for your event, you are supporting a facility that empowers future leaders and contributes to the growth and prosperity of our local economy.
If you are seeking a professional, well-equipped, and centrally located venue for your next event, look no further than the University Center at College of the Canyons.
To book a space or learn more, please visit cocuniversity center.com or call (661) 3625111. Follow us @cocuniversitycenter for updates, testimonials, and event inspiration. Make your next event a success — partner with the University Center, where your professional goals meet exceptional support.
ECOMMERCE
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Simplified Shipping Options
Evolving technology isn’t just improving the browsing and purchasing side of ecommerce; shipping operations are also seeing enhancements.
For example, ShipAccel, a digital platform designed by Pitney Bowes, simplifies and enhances shipping operations with advanced ecommerce technology. The platform empowers early ecommerce brands to ship like larger companies with access to discounted carrier rates; more than 80 integrations including leading marketplaces, data and insights to help make smarter shipping decisions; branded tracking; and return capabilities. It features a collection of apps, widgets and application programming
HENRY MAYO
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Don’t look like a flower. Avoid brightly colored clothing and don’t wear perfume.
Use caution anytime you eat or drink outdoors. Don’t drink from an open soda can, which insects may crawl into. Instead, pour soda into a glass. And keep food covered until you are ready to eat.
Stay calm and quiet during an encounter. If a stinging insect flies in your area, don’t swat at it. Wait for it to go away.
Wear closed-toe shoes or avoid going barefoot when outdoors.
Keep garbage cans tightly covered so the smells don’t attract insects.
DO-IT-YOURSELF TREATMENT
interfaces to easily configure new workflows and seamlessly meet the demands of business growth.
“As ecommerce becomes a mainstay, shippers must take a technology-first approach, utilizing platforms that can grow along with the business and partnering with providers who offer deep expertise in the segment,” said Shemin Nurmohamed, president of Sending Technology Solutions at Pitney Bowes.
“As a result of using technology like ShipAccel, ecommerce shippers can save money, enhance operational efficiencies and delight customers — all of which support the business’ bottom line.”
Find more shipping support for your ecommerce business in the coming year at shipaccel.com. (Family Features)
No matter how careful you are, there are no guarantees that you won’t get stung sometime. And if you do, you may have mild symptoms, such as redness, swelling, itching and pain.
Mild stings can be easily dealt with. According to the AAAAI, you should:
Remove the stinger if it is still in your skin. Use a fingernail to scrape it away. Don’t grasp it to pull it out. You may accidentally squeeze the venom sac that is attached to the stinger and push more venom into your skin.
Elevate the part of the body that was stung and use ice to relieve pain and swelling.
Relieve itching with an ointment or an antihistamine. Avoid infection by cleaning the sting with soap and water. Talk to a doctor if there is ongoing swelling or if the sting site becomes infected.
INSECT STING ALLERGIES
Easy ECommerce Shipping Tips
Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, getting smart about shipping can help improve your ecommerce experience.
Be cost-conscious Buyers obviously benefit from lower costs, but as a seller, managing shipping costs means more revenue. Volume discounts and options for lower prices with longer shipping times can make a bigger impact than you might expect. A shipping partner that has pre-negotiated discounted rates with carriers can deliver significant savings to your business, too.
Reduce package sizes Using boxes or padded envelopes that closely fit the product being shipped can reduce weight and therefore the cost to send it to the customer. Also avoid excess packaging that adds bulk, which adds cost and waste.
Utilize advanced tracking tools Keep tracking information for everything you ship or buy so you can monitor its safe delivery or, if problems arise, promptly identify and correct the issue. An option like ShipAccel uniquely provides branded tracking updates so your business stays front and center with your customer from click to porch. (Family Features)
Aside from the pain, a first sting usually won’t cause a severe allergic reaction. However, your body will react to the venomous sting by making antibodies. Those antibodies can later cause problems for some people if they are stung again by the same type of insect or one that is similar. The antibodies may react with the venom from the second sting and set off a severe allergic reaction. In some cases, it can even lead to a potentially lifethreatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
WHEN TO GET HELP
Signs of a severe allergic reaction include:
Itching and hives over large parts of the body.
Trouble breathing.
Dizziness.
Feeling nauseated or having stomach cramps or diarrhea. Shock.
Loss of consciousness.
If you have these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
If you have had a major allergic reaction in the past, talk to your doctor. You may need to carry injectable medication, epinephrine, for emergencies. Common brand names include EpiPen and Adrenaclick. Then, if you are stung, you can immediately take a shot of epinephrine to help stop or lessen the reaction. Even if you take the shot, you still need to seek medical treatment right away.
Many severely allergic people can be helped by a treatment called venom immunotherapy. With this therapy, a doctor will gradually expose you to the venom you are allergic to. Over time — probably a few weeks or months — you may build up a tolerance to the venom. Enjoy your summer!
Santa Clarita Stock Average
Santa Clarita Stock Average Below you will find a list of local Santa Clarita-based or prominent Santa Clarita companies used for our averages. Each month we will take the average of all these stocks and show that number. Tracking that number from month to month will give you a window into how our local company’s stocks are performing. Last month the index was 3,981.62 and the average price per share was $ 134.72 This month the index is 4,184.52 up 202.90 or 5.1% For an average share price of $139.38.
