Kern County Real Estate Review

Hosted by Laurie McCarty

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186

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Oct 2026

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About the show

The Kern County Real Estate Review is your weekly look at Kern County real estate, homeownership, and the local issues shaping life in Bakersfield and Kern County. Host Laurie McCarty breaks down housing trends, home prices, market shifts, lending updates, and community news with clear, practical insight. If you want to understand what is happening in Kern County and how it affects your home and community, this show delivers.

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60 recent

October 31, 202659 min

Real Estate After Dark: Haunted Houses, Horror Stories & Halloween Fun

An empty house. Footsteps upstairs. A toilet flushing. Then a man's voice answering the phone. But there's one problem: the house is supposed to be vacant. This Halloween, things are getting spooky on the Kern County Real Estate Review ! Join Laurie McCarty and Adlai Wilson for a special episode filled with haunted houses, chilling encounters, unexplained mysteries, and real estate horror stories that might make you think twice before entering an empty home alone. We're digging into the archives to revisit some unforgettable stories, including a mysterious toy train, a horrifying encounter inside a foreclosure property, and a ghost-hunting investigation at Bakersfield High School that left students witnessing things they couldn't explain. Plus, Laurie shares some of the creepiest experiences Realtors have posted online, from a terrifying encounter in a dark basement to strange activity inside supposedly vacant homes, and even a possible haunting that followed a real estate professional home! But not every real estate nightmare involves ghosts. Laurie also reveals ten frightening things buyers and sellers never want to hear during a transaction, from unexpected inspection problems to devastating escrow scams. And for a little Halloween fun, we're highlighting some of the best neighborhoods for trick-or-treating in Bakersfield and the surrounding area, including Haggin Oaks, Westchester, City in the Hills, and Gossamer Grove. Whether you believe in ghosts or just love a good scary story, this Halloween special is packed with chills, laughs, local legends, and plenty of surprises. Turn up the volume, keep the lights on, and enjoy Real Estate After Dark !

October 26, 202659 min

Mortgage Rates Are Up. Is It Time to Rethink Your Real Estate Plans?

Should you buy a house now or wait for mortgage rates to drop? With rising interest rates, inflation, and concerns about housing affordability, many prospective homebuyers in Bakersfield and throughout Kern County are wondering whether it's better to keep renting or finally purchase a home. On this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Bakersfield Realtor Laurie McCarty welcomes local mortgage lender Nicole Hale to discuss what's driving mortgage rates, how higher interest rates affect monthly mortgage payments, and what buyers should consider before putting their homeownership plans on hold. Laurie and Nicole explore mortgage financing options, low down payment programs, interest rate locks, and temporary versus permanent mortgage rate buydowns. They also discuss how seller concessions and closing cost credits could help buyers afford a home without sellers automatically lowering their asking price. But there's another important question: Is renting really cheaper than buying a home in the long run? Nicole explains how homeownership with a fixed-rate mortgage can provide some protection against inflation and rising rental costs. She also shares figures comparing the median net worth of homeowners versus renters and discusses how building equity can affect long-term financial security. Plus, Nicole shares her personal experience of buying a home in 2007, just before the housing market crashed, and selling it in 2012 at a $40,000 loss. Years later, she reconsidered that experience after calculating how much she would have spent on rent during those same five years. It's a thought-provoking example of why the financial benefits of homeownership go beyond whether a property's value increases or decreases. For homeowners considering selling, Laurie explains why higher mortgage rates don't mean homes stop selling, and why understanding current neighborhood conditions and pricing your property realistically is so important in today's Bakersfield real estate market. Also in this episode, Laurie discusses a shocking $10 million real estate fraud scheme involving a Delano man and shares important tips for protecting yourself when buying or selling property. She also answers a listener's question about selling a home that needs repairs, including how The McCarty Group's Improve to Move program can help eligible sellers prepare their homes without paying for approved improvements upfront. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a renter considering purchasing a home, or a homeowner thinking about selling, this episode offers practical insight to help you make informed real estate decisions. Thinking about buying or selling a home in Bakersfield, CA, or anywhere in Kern County? Call or text Laurie McCarty and The McCarty Group at 661-665-SOLD (661-665-7653) or visit TheMcCartyGroup.com.

October 19, 202659 min

Before Winter Hits: What Local Homeowners Should Do Now

Is your home ready for cooler weather, winter rain and the holiday season? On this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty shares the fall and winter home maintenance tasks Kern County homeowners should take care of now, before small problems turn into expensive repairs. From servicing your furnace and inspecting your roof to cleaning rain gutters, checking windows and doors, preparing your pool and spa, adjusting sprinklers, testing outdoor electrical outlets for Christmas lights and getting your kitchen ready for holiday guests, Laurie walks through a practical seasonal checklist for homeowners throughout Kern County. Laurie also explains what solar homeowners should know about annual True-Up bills, when adding solar panels or a battery may make sense, and why you should understand your existing solar agreement before taking on new debt. And in local real estate news, Laurie breaks down the unusual battle brewing over Gossamer Grove in Shafter, where plans for approximately 1,200 new homes overlap with the proposed California High-Speed Rail route, and what that uncertainty could mean for homeowners, property values and future real estate sales. Plus, Laurie shares a simple weekend curb appeal project that can help improve your home’s first impression, and takes listeners inside this week’s Home of the Week in Bakersfield’s Four Seasons 55+ community. Whether you own a home, are thinking about selling, or simply want to protect the value of your property, this episode is packed with practical advice for Bakersfield and Kern County homeowners. The Kern County Real Estate Review airs Saturdays at 11 a.m. on KNZR 1560 AM and 97.7 FM, with Laurie McCarty of The McCarty Group at Coldwell Banker Preferred, Realtors.

October 12, 202659 min

Selling a Luxury Home in Bakersfield

What does it really take to sell a luxury home in Bakersfield? And how can homeowners get their property in front of qualified buyers beyond the local market? On this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty welcomes special guest Sheri Anthes, Broker of Coldwell Banker Preferred, Realtors, for an inside look at Coldwell Banker Global Luxury , a new offering bringing expanded luxury real estate marketing resources to Bakersfield and Kern County. Laurie and Sheri explore what qualifies a property as a luxury home, how marketing high-end real estate differs from traditional listings, and what sellers can gain from Coldwell Banker's national and international network. They also discuss the specialized marketing tools, broader buyer exposure and opportunities the Global Luxury program brings to local homeowners. Laurie also shares how Global Luxury builds upon The McCarty Group's existing marketing strategies, including professional photography, video, digital advertising, home staging, an extensive database of potential buyers and a dedicated team of real estate professionals. Plus, she explains how exclusive programs like Improve to Move and Guaranteed Sold provide sellers with additional options and peace of mind. Earlier in the show, Laurie breaks down the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate decision, explains why changes to the federal funds rate don't automatically translate into identical changes in mortgage rates, and discusses what shifting borrowing costs mean for buyers and sellers in today's housing market. Whether you own a luxury property, are preparing to sell your home or simply want to stay informed about the Bakersfield real estate market, this episode offers valuable insight into what it takes to market and sell a home successfully. Thinking about selling your Bakersfield or Kern County home? Visit TheMcCartyGroup.com or call 661-665-SOLD (661-665-7653) to learn how Laurie McCarty and The McCarty Group can help.

October 5, 202659 min

Open House, Open Mic: Bakersfield Homes, Market Trends & Selling This Fall

What's happening in the Bakersfield housing market, and what can buyers expect as we head into the final months of the year? On this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty brings listeners a special Open House, Open Mic edition featuring local homes for sale, the latest Kern County housing market statistics, and timely advice for buyers and sellers. Laurie checks in with four members of The McCarty Group, Tish Debenham, Genevive Salgado, Hailey Owen and Kassandra Wernhart, as they take listeners inside homes for sale throughout Bakersfield. From updated kitchens and versatile floor plans to outdoor living spaces and standout property features, each agent offers a closer look at what makes these homes worth seeing in person. Laurie also breaks down the September 2026 Kern County real estate market statistics , including housing inventory, pending sales, median home prices and how long properties are taking to sell. With more than one in five homes nationwide experiencing a price reduction, Laurie explains what these national trends actually mean, how Bakersfield's housing market compares, and why pricing your home correctly from the beginning is more important than ever. Plus, Laurie answers a listener's question that's on the minds of many homeowners: Should you sell your home now or wait until after the holidays? She explores how interest rates, seasonal buyer activity, competition and personal circumstances should factor into that decision, and why waiting for the "perfect" market isn't always the best strategy. Whether you're actively searching for a home in Bakersfield, considering selling your property, or simply keeping an eye on the Kern County real estate market, this episode delivers local insight, practical advice and a closer look at homes currently on the market. Thinking about buying or selling a home in Bakersfield or Kern County? Visit TheMcCartyGroup.com or call or text 661-665-SOLD (661-665-7653) to connect with Laurie McCarty and The McCarty Group.

September 28, 202659 min

Tasteful, Timeless & Market-Ready: Holiday Decorating When Your Home Is for Sale

Can your holiday decorations actually hurt your chances of selling your home? From oversized Halloween displays to Christmas trees that make a room feel smaller, the way you decorate during the holidays can have a bigger impact on potential buyers than you might realize. On this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty welcomes Courtney Montoya, Lead Designer at The Staging Standard, to discuss how homeowners can embrace the holiday season while keeping their homes beautifully presented and ready to sell. Together, Laurie and Courtney explore practical decorating tips for fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, including how to create a warm, inviting atmosphere without overwhelming a space. They discuss which seasonal decorations work best when your home is on the market, what to avoid, and how to strike the right balance between personal holiday traditions and appealing to potential buyers. The conversation also covers Christmas tree placement, tasteful curb appeal, decorating with natural elements, highlighting your home's best architectural features, and why personalized decorations may be worth reconsidering while your home is listed. Plus, they discuss how holiday décor can affect real estate photography and whether seasonal scents, candles and music help or hurt the experience during a showing. Whether you're preparing to list your Bakersfield home this fall, planning to sell during the holidays, or simply looking for tasteful seasonal decorating inspiration, this episode is filled with practical ideas for making your home feel festive, welcoming and market-ready. Thinking about selling your home? Visit TheMcCartyGroup.com or call 661-665-SOLD (661-665-7653) to learn how Laurie McCarty and The McCarty Group can help you prepare, market and sell your home with confidence.

September 21, 202659 min

Living Near an AI Data Center: What Could It Mean for Your Home’s Value?

AI data centers are expanding across the country, and major projects are now being proposed right here in Kern County. But what could that mean for Bakersfield-area homeowners, surrounding neighborhoods and property values? In this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty takes a closer look at the rapidly growing world of AI data centers and the real estate questions that come with them. What exactly happens inside these massive facilities? Why is Kern County attracting this type of development? And if an AI data center is built near your home, could it make your property harder to sell or affect what a buyer is willing to pay? Laurie breaks down two major local proposals, the RB Inyokern Data Center near Ridgecrest and the Golden Valley Technology Hub at Elk Hills west of Bakersfield, and examines the issues homeowners are asking about, including noise, water use, electricity demand, traffic, infrastructure and the visual impact of large industrial developments. Most importantly, we look at what the housing data actually says. Early research has not found a broad decline in home prices around existing data centers, but that doesn't tell the entire story. Distance from the facility, what a homeowner can see or hear, buyer perception and the marketability of an individual property can all matter. Plus, Laurie explains what homeowners and buyers should investigate when a major development is proposed nearby and why the answer isn't as simple as “data centers hurt home values” or “data centers don't matter.” If you own real estate in Bakersfield or Kern County, are considering buying a home near a proposed development, or have been wondering how the AI boom could eventually affect the housing market, this is an episode you'll want to hear. The Kern County Real Estate Review with Laurie McCarty of The McCarty Group at Coldwell Banker Preferred, Realtors.

September 7, 202659 min

Building Homes in a Factory: Inside Plant Prefab's Approach

What if the future of homebuilding looks less like a traditional construction site—and more like a factory floor? In this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty sits down with Steve Glenn, CEO and founder of Plant Prefab, to explore how prefab and off-site construction are changing the way homes are built. With Plant Prefab’s factory and headquarters located right here in Kern County, this innovative approach to construction is happening much closer to home than many people realize. What exactly is a prefab home, and how is it different from the manufactured or mobile homes many people picture when they hear the word “prefab”? Can building portions of a home inside a controlled factory environment really make construction faster or less expensive? And does factory-built mean homeowners have to sacrifice customization? Steve takes us inside Plant Prefab’s approach and explains what happens in the factory versus at the homesite, where off-site construction can save time and money, and how the process can impact quality and sustainability. Laurie also asks about financing, appraisals and insurance for prefab homes, and whether this type of construction could realistically play a role in addressing California’s housing shortage. The conversation goes beyond new home construction, including Plant Prefab’s work rebuilding homes lost in the Southern California wildfires, healthcare clinics being built in Kern County, and the bigger question: Could building homes in factories eventually become a normal part of homebuilding in California? If you’ve ever wondered whether prefab homes are really faster, cheaper or as customizable as traditionally built homes—or what the future of construction could look like—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

August 31, 202659 min

What If You Could Take Your Mortgage Rate With You? The MOVE Act Explained

What if selling your home didn’t mean giving up your 2% or 3% mortgage rate? A new proposal in Congress called the MOVE Act is putting the idea of “portable mortgages” in the spotlight. In theory, homeowners could take their existing mortgage rate, terms and remaining balance with them when they move to a new home — potentially removing one of the biggest reasons millions of Americans feel financially locked into the homes they already own. But could it actually work? On this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty breaks down the MOVE Act, the growing problem of mortgage-rate lock-in, and what portable mortgages could mean for homeowners, home buyers and the housing market. Local lender Nicole Hale joins the conversation to explore how a portable mortgage might work in the real world, including qualification requirements, additional financing, appraisals, fees and potential complications. They also discuss who could benefit most, whether portable mortgages could encourage more homeowners to sell, how the proposal might affect housing inventory and first-time buyers, and why homeowners with low mortgage rates shouldn’t assume they have to stay put forever. The MOVE Act is still only a proposal, but if you have a low mortgage rate and have wondered whether you’ll ever be able to afford to move again, this is a conversation you’ll want to hear.

August 24, 202659 min

City Lights Bakersfield: What’s Coming to the Former East Hills Mall Site

What’s happening at the former East Hills Mall site in Bakersfield? After years of plans, speculation and waiting, the property is finally being transformed into City Lights Bakersfield—and this week, we’re getting an inside look at what’s coming. Laurie McCarty is joined by Vincent Roche, Executive Director with Cushman & Wakefield, who brings more than 40 years of commercial real estate experience to the conversation. They discuss what is being developed at City Lights, where construction stands, the timeline for opening, which businesses and retailers are coming, and what still remains to be added to the project. But this episode goes beyond the question everyone wants answered: “What stores are coming to the old East Hills Mall?” Vincent takes us behind the scenes of how major retail developments come together, what national retailers look for when deciding whether to open in Bakersfield, why certain locations attract investment, and what retailer interest in City Lights may say about the Bakersfield market. Plus, Laurie and Vincent explore what the redevelopment of this long-vacant property could mean for the surrounding area, whether City Lights could spur additional commercial development and investment nearby, and how shopping centers have changed over the last several decades. If you’ve driven past the former East Hills Mall and wondered what they’re building, what businesses are coming, when City Lights will open, or what this major Bakersfield development could mean for the community, this is the episode you’ll want to hear.