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September 2026
NEWSLETTER
WELCOME TO OUR
Monthly Newsletter Welcome to the latest edition of our Real Estate Insights Newsletter! As your dedicated real estate agent, my mission is to keep you informed and empowered with the most up-to-date information, trends, and opportunities in the housing market. Whether you're looking to buy your dream home, sell your current property, or simply keep abreast of the latest in real estate, you've come to the right place. Every issue, we'll delve into expert advice, market analysis, and valuable tips to navigate the complex world of real estate with confidence. Thank you for joining our community of informed buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts. Let's embark on this journey together, making informed decisions and turning real estate dreams into reality.
In this newsletter you will find: Latest listings, real estate news & local events. Keep on reading!
SEPTEMBER EDITION
Local Events SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
4
4
4
Testimony & Tea @Stockdale CC
Movies in the Park(Moana 2) @Saunders Park
Emo Night Tour @Legends Lounge
6:00PM
6:30PM
8:00PM
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
8
11
12
Costume-making Kids Sewing Class@The Studio
Fairways of Compassion Golf Tourn.@ Stockdale CC
Craft&Vendor Show @Villas at Scenic River
1:30PM
2:00PM
10:00AM
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
12
17
23
Village Fest @Kern County Museum
BFMG Bingo @2101 Ridge Rd
Kern County Fair(Opening Day)
6:00PM
9:00AM
Varying Times
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER
26
26
28
KC Heart & Stroke Walk @CSUB
Skin Lab’s 4th Anniversary
Gretchen Wilson @KC Fairgrounds
8:00AM
9:00AM
8:00PM
CLICK EACH EVENT FOR MORE DETAILS
Issue no.32
MONTHLY INSIGHT BEHIND ON YOUR MORTGAGE? WHAT YOU DO NEXT COULD MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE If you're struggling to make your mortgage payment, one of the most important things to understand is that waiting can reduce your options. During the first half of 2026, foreclosure filings nationwide increased 21% from the previous year. Here in Bakersfield, the foreclosure rate during the second quarter ranked fourth-highest among major U.S. metropolitan areas, with one foreclosure filing for every 616 housing units. After more than 30 years in real estate, I've seen how emotions can unintentionally keep homeowners from taking action. It may begin with denial—"I'll catch up next month." Then anger, followed by bargaining—"I just need one more paycheck or a little more time." Eventually, the stress can become overwhelming and people may stop answering calls or opening mail. Unfortunately, the foreclosure timeline continues whether we're emotionally ready to deal with it or not. If you think you may miss a payment—or you've already missed one—contact your mortgage servicer as early as possible. Depending on your loan and circumstances, options may include a repayment plan, temporary forbearance, loan modification or another loss-mitigation program. Ask what programs are available, what documentation is required and what deadlines apply. If you've received a Notice of Default, don't assume you've lost your home. In a typical California nonjudicial foreclosure, the lender generally must wait at least 90 days after recording the Notice of Default before recording a Notice of Sale. Once a Notice of Sale is recorded, an auction can generally occur as soon as 21 days later. That time can be extremely valuable—but only if you use it. This is also the time to determine how much equity you have. Ask a trusted Realtor what your home could realistically sell for and compare that with your mortgage balance, liens and estimated selling expenses. Finding out what your home is worth doesn't mean you have to sell. It gives you the information needed to understand your choices. If your hardship is temporary, keeping your home may be possible. If the mortgage is no longer sustainable, selling before foreclosure may allow you to preserve available equity and move forward on your own terms. If you owe more than the home is worth, a lenderapproved short sale or another alternative may also be available. Most importantly, don't wait until you feel completely ready to take action. You can hope things improve while still creating a Plan B. The goal isn't necessarily to save the house or sell the house. It's to protect as many options as possible while they're still yours to choose.
NEED TO CONTACT US? Laurie_McCarty TheMcCartygroup/Laurie Mccarty Laurie McCarty TheMcCartyGroup 661.665.SOLD Kern County Real Estate Review
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS
SEPTEMBER EDITION
FEATURED LISTINGS $399,900
$449,900
$375,000
SHAFTER
BAKERSFIELD
PINE MTN CLUB
9634 MAPLE TERRACE LN, 93263
308 SWAN CT, 93309
2513 GLACIER DR, 93222
3
2
2
3
2
2
3
2.75
2
$549,900
$575,000
$580,000
PINE MTN CLUB
BAKERSFIELD
BAKERSFIELD
2100 ST BERNARD DR, 93222
15618 CLARISSE ST, 93314
5101 DEWALT ST, 93308
4
3.5
2
4
3
2
MORE EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM
3
2
RV PARKING
SEPTEMBER EDITION
LISTING OF THE MONTH 23921 Parke Ct, Tehachapi, CA 93561
MOUNTAIN VIEWS
3 BEDROOMS
2.5 BATHS
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND UNFORGETTABLE SUNSETS SET THE STAGE FOR THIS EXCEPTIONAL HOME NESTLED IN BEAR VALLEY SPRINGS. FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE, YOU'LL BE CAPTIVATED BY THE BREATHTAKING SCENERY, WHERE EVERY WINDOW OFFERS A CONNECTION TO NATURE AND THE BEAUTY OF FOUR-SEASON LIVING. RICH IN CHARACTER & ARCHITECTURAL CHARM, THIS ONE-OF-A-KIND HOME SHOWCASES CLASSIC SPANISH-INSPIRED DESIGN WITH ARCHED WALKWAYS, SALTILLO-STYLE TILE FLOORING & WARM WOOD ACCENTS, THAT CREATE A SOUTHWESTERN AMBIANCE THROUGHOUT. THE LIVING & DINING AREAS ARE FILLED WITH SOARING CEILINGS, AND A STRIKING KIVASTYLE FIREPLACE IN THE DINING/LIVING AREA. THE SPACIOUS PRIMARY SUITE OFFERS A BEAUTIFUL FOCAL POINT FIREPLACE, DUAL SINKS, AND AN OVERSIZED TUB WITH SEPARATE SHOWER. RESIDENTS ENJOY ACCESS TO A GOLF COURSE, AN EQUESTRIAN CENTER, SWIMMING POOL, TENNIS & PICKLEBALL COURTS, STOCKED FISHING LAKES, MILES OF SCENIC HIKING AND RIDING TRAILS, CAMPGROUNDS, COUNTRY CLUB RECEPTION ROOM AND RESTAURANTS.
2,586 SQFT TAKE A CLOSER LOOK INSIDE
MORE EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM
Some images have been digitally enhanced. View original photos by scanning here.
Issue no.32
KEEPING IT “REALTOR” In this section of the newsletter we want to keep it REAL. Want to see your question answered? Email or send us a DM!
Q: “Laurie, my husband and I are not behind on our mortgage, but every month feels like a stretch. We are making the payment, but barely. At what point should a homeowner start looking at options, including whether it may make sense to sell?
My answer is: before you miss payments, before you're panicked, and before your options become limited. If every month feels like a stretch, ask yourself whether this is a temporary hardship or whether it has become your new normal. If it's temporary, contact your mortgage servicer early to find out whether hardship assistance, temporary relief or other options may be available. If there's no clear end in sight, look at the bigger picture before assuming selling is the answer. Compare your mortgage payment with what it would realistically cost to rent, including deposits and moving expenses. Look for opportunities to lower your current housing costs by shopping your homeowners insurance and reviewing your property tax assessment. I would also talk with a trusted Realtor to find out what your home is worth, how much equity you have, what you could realistically walk away with after selling costs, and whether selling would actually improve your financial situation. After looking at the numbers, you may decide staying makes the most sense. Or you may discover that selling now, while you're current and still in control, could allow you to protect your equity and make a move before circumstances force the decision. Don't panic, but don't ignore the warning signs either. The goal is to gather information early so you can make the best decision while you still have choices.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO GET YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
SEPTEMBER EDITION
CALLING ALL
INININVEVEVESTSTSTOR OR ORS!S!S! 23760 DART DR | $25,000
1.66 Acre Property Beautiful horse-zoned homesite in gated Bear Valley Springs offering scenic mountain living, miles of riding and hiking trails, equestrian facilities, golf, swimming, fishing, parks, dining, and resort-style community amenities.
2824 N HALF MOON DR | $899,000
5-Unit Property Four remodeled units, extensive property improvements, existing rental income, a detached two-car garage, and multiple laundry areas create an attractive multifamily investment opportunity.
701 DESERET WAY | $995,000
4-Unit Property This well-cared-for Quailwood property offers a highly desirable unit mix featuring one single-story 3-bedroom, 2-bath unit and three single-story 2-bedroom, 2-bath units. Single-story multi-unit properties like this are hard to find, making this a standout opportunity in a sought-after rental area.
WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM
Issue no.32
Local Expertise Trusted Insights
Hosted by Laurie McCarty
NEW SHOWS EVERY SATURDAY 11 AM TO 12 PM ENCORE EVERY SUNDAY 8 AM TO 9 AM
KNZR 97.7 FM | 1560 AM
OR WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS!
CITY LIGHTS BAKERSFIELD: WHAT’S COMING TO THE FORMER EAST HILLS MALL SITE
IS SOLAR STILL WORTH IT IN CALIFORNIA IN 2026?
THE 5 STAGES OF FORECLOSURE GRIEF: HOW TO TAKE ACTION BEFORE THE CLOCK RUNS OUT
MORE CHOICES FOR BUYERS, MORE COMPETITION FOR SELLERS: KERN COUNTY MARKET UPDATE
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO HEAR MORE
SEPTEMBER EDITION
SEPTEMBER HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST Regular maintenance protects your biggest investment—your home! Be proactive now to avoid headaches later. As you check off each task below, you'll ensure your home stays in excellent condition year-round! Service Your Garage Door & Opener Inspect the door, tracks, rollers, hinges, and weather stripping for wear or damage. Lubricate moving parts as recommended and test the auto-reverse safety feature. Routine maintenance can help extend the life of one of the largest moving systems in your home. Inspect Your Roof Before Fall & Winter Bakersfield’s intense summer heat can take a toll on roofing materials. Look for missing, lifted, cracked, or damaged shingles or tiles, deteriorated flashing, and other visible signs of wear. Addressing minor issues now can help prevent costly leaks when rainy weather arrives. Flush Your Water Heater Kern County’s hard water can contribute to mineral and sediment buildup inside water heaters, reducing efficiency and potentially shortening their lifespan. If appropriate for your system, have the tank flushed and check around the unit for corrosion, moisture, or signs of leakage. Check Your Home for Plumbing Leaks Inspect under sinks, around toilets, behind accessible appliances, and near the water heater for moisture, staining, corrosion, or slow leaks. Pay attention to unexplained increases in your water bill, too. Catching a small leak early can help prevent costly water damage and repairs.
REAL RESULTS, REAL CLIENTS LET US MAKE YOU OUR NEXT SUCCESS STORY Seven offers—and a final sales price $40,000 above asking. That is what happened when Jacob listed his Northwest Bakersfield home with Laurie McCarty. Laurie knew the home needed to stand out from the moment it reached the market. She brought in professional staging, high-quality photography and video, and an extensive campaign across both digital and traditional marketing—all designed to make the home impossible to overlook. And it worked. Seven offers came in, sparking an all-out bidding war that pushed the final sales price $40,000 above list price. Even in a changing market, exceptional results are still possible when the preparation, pricing, and marketing all work together. CLICK TO READ MORE
WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM
SEPTEMBER EDITION
MEET THE TEAM At The McCarty Group, our success is driven by a dedicated team of experienced Realtors and skilled administrative staff. Each member plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service and expertise. From guiding you through the buying and selling process to ensuring every detail is handled with care, our team is committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals.
Laurie McCarty | Owner & Realtor Connor McCarty | Realtor Bob McCarty | Field Services Specialist Bridgette Sanchez | Realtor Courtney Montoya | Marketing Coordinator Genevive Salgado | Listing Coordinator & Realtor Hailey Owen | Listing Department Margaret Edmonston | Realtor Paige Marchant | Transaction Coordinator & Realtor Stephanie Llanes | Realtor Tishana Debenham | Office & Sales Manager Lauren Sefton | Marketing Manager & Realtor Sharouk Qumsieh | Realtor Kassandra Wernhart | Realtor
THE MCCARTY GROUP SOLUTIONS
At The McCarty Group, we're committed to providing unparalleled service and innovative solutions to meet your real estate needs. Here are three exclusive programs we offer to meet your needs and provide peace of mind: Guaranteed Sold: We guarantee to sell your house by an agreed date and for an agreed amount. If it doesn’t sell, we’ll buy it ourselves. You can rest assured knowing your home sale is in capable hands. Improve to Move: Need to make some updates or repairs before listing your home? With our Improve to Move program, we recommend the best improvements and coordinate the work using our trusted network of contractors. We'll cover the costs upfront, and you can reimburse us at closing with no hidden fees or interest. Love it or Leave it: We’re committed to finding you a home you truly love. If for any reason you fall out of love with your new home within the first 12 months, we’ll sell it for you, free of charge. Your satisfaction is our top priority. Take advantage of these unique options designed to make your real estate journey smooth and stress-free. Contact us today to learn more!
We want to thank you! A huge thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey over the years. Your support has been the cornerstone of every milestone. If this is the year you're thinking of making a move, let's chat about how we can turn your real estate goals into reality!
-Laurie McCarty DRE:01090506 661.665.SOLD DRE:01100927
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO LEARN MORE