As 2025 comes to a close, many assume the real estate market slows down, but the truth is quite the opposite. In this episode of The Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty explains why the final months of the year can be one of the best times to buy or sell a home.

Laurie shares how motivated buyers, reduced competition, and faster closings create real opportunities during the cooler months. She also offers practical advice for sellers who want to make their homes stand out and for buyers hoping to find the right property before the year ends.

Tune in to learn how to finish 2025 strong and make the most of this unique window in the housing market.

As temperatures cool down, pool season might be the last thing on your mind — but now is the perfect time to assess your pool and start planning for next year. In this episode of The Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty sits down with Mario Sanchez, owner of M&J Plastering, to discuss what real pool maintenance looks like beyond weekly cleaning.

From understanding when it’s time to replaster, to spotting early signs of wear and tear, Mario shares expert advice on how to protect your investment, extend the life of your pool, and avoid costly surprises when summer returns.

If you’re a pool owner — or thinking of becoming one — you’ll want to tune in for these practical tips that can save you time and money down the road.

Laurie McCarty is joined by fellow KNZR host and financial expert Andy Barkate, president of California Retirement Plans, for an in-depth conversation about Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). They explore what REITs are, how they work, the different types available, and the potential benefits and risks of including them in your portfolio. Whether you are retired, planning for retirement, or simply curious about expanding your investment knowledge, this conversation provides valuable insights into how REITs can play a role in building long-term financial stability.

Thinking about cozy nights by the fireplace this fall? Before you strike a match, tune in as Laurie McCarty sits down with Hoss Brooks, owner of Kern County Chimney Sweeping, to discuss why fireplace and chimney maintenance is essential for every homeowner.

In this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, you’ll learn:

• What a professional chimney sweep visit looks like

• How often your chimney should be inspected and cleaned

• The most common issues — and fire hazards — Hoss sees in local homes

• Signs it’s time to schedule maintenance before it’s too late

• The difference in care for wood-burning, gas, and pellet fireplaces

Whether you use your fireplace daily in the cooler months or just a few times a year, this conversation will give you the knowledge you need to keep your home safe, efficient, and ready for those cozy nights in.

What’s it really like to live in a tiny home? In this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty sits down with entrepreneur Samantha Creech, who not only designed her own tiny home but also lives in it every day. Samantha shares her journey of downsizing, the creative process behind building her home, and the unexpected joys and challenges that come with tiny living.

From rethinking what makes a house a home, to discovering how to design and thrive in a small space, Samantha’s story is both inspiring and practical for anyone curious about the tiny home lifestyle.

Tune in to hear firsthand what it means to live intentionally, create with purpose, and find freedom in less square footage.

It’s Open House, Open Mic on the Kern County Real Estate Review! In this special monthly edition, Laurie McCarty shares the latest Bakersfield housing market update, including insights from the Crabtree Report on affordability, supply and demand, home prices, and job growth. You’ll hear why Kern County continues to stand out as one of the most affordable markets in California — and why local buyers and sellers remain so active.

Laurie also welcomes local agents to spotlight their open houses across Bakersfield, giving listeners a first look at some of the hottest homes hitting the market. Whether you’re searching for your next home, considering selling, or just curious about the latest Kern County real estate trends, this episode is full of valuable insights and opportunities.

For more resources or to connect with Kern County’s #1 real estate team, visit TheMcCartyGroup.com.

Thinking about buying a foreclosure in Bakersfield or beyond? In this episode of the Kern County Real Estate Review, Laurie McCarty breaks down everything buyers need to know before jumping in. From explaining the foreclosure process in California to clarifying the difference between auctions, REO properties, and short sales, Laurie shares practical insights drawn from decades of experience.

You’ll learn:

• Why foreclosures happen and how the process works locally

• The risks and rewards of buying at auction vs. through the MLS

• What financing options (FHA, VA, conventional, cash) really work for foreclosures

• Extra costs and repairs buyers should budget for

• How today’s market compares to the 2008–2009 foreclosure wave

• Action steps for buyers who want to get started safely

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor, or simply curious about the current real estate market in Kern County, this episode offers clear guidance and expert advice.

For more resources or to connect with Kern County’s #1 real estate team, visit TheMcCartyGroup.com.

This week on the Kern County Real Estate Review, we’re joined by architect Daniel Cater of Cater Design Group to discuss the ambitious restoration of one of Bakersfield’s most iconic buildings — the historic Woolworth’s on 19th Street. From sourcing original 1940s materials to deconstructing and rebuilding the last standing Woolworth’s lunch counter in the country, Daniel walks us through the vision, process, and purpose behind this project. We also explore what this renovation means for the future of downtown Bakersfield and the broader role of historic preservation in community development.