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WLARE Blog


Understanding the Current Housing and Economic Reality: A Conversation with Dr. Chris Thornberg
We recently sat down with Dr. Christopher Thornberg, the founding partner of Beacon Economics, to address a series of questions that are helping us frame our outlook on housing, the economy and the fiscal policies driving it.

Robert Schmalz
4 days ago


Beverly Hills Pt 2: The "Garden City" Blueprint for Enduring Value
To outsiders, Beverly Hills is defined by the paparazzi flashes on Rodeo Drive and the reality TV drama of the Housewives. But to those of us in luxury real estate—and the residents who call this 5.7-square-mile garden city home—Beverly Hills is something far more grounded. It is perhaps meticulously The canopy of "The Flats": Where 100-year-old trees provide a natural ceiling to the world's most manicured neighborhood. managed, safe, and centrally located municipality in Los
Robert Schmalz
Jan 2


Connect, Learn, and Grow: Announcing Two New West Los Angeles Real Estate Networking Groups!
We are thrilled to expand our community with dedicated spaces for local networking and specialized investment strategies. At West Los Angeles Real Estate, we know that the key to success in this market isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know. Real estate is a team sport, and the best deals, partnerships, and insights come from a strong community. That is why we are absolutely bursting with excitement to announce the launch of TWO brand-new Meetup groups desi
Robert Schmalz
Jan 1


Santa Monica Spotlight: More Than Just a Pier—Why Buyers Pay a Premium for the Pacific Edge
To outsiders, Santa Monica is defined by its world-famous Pier and the bustle of the Third Street Promenade. But to those of us in Southern California real estate—and the residents who call this 8.3-square-mile city home—Santa Monica is something far more significant. It is perhaps the most perfect blend of urban sophistication and relaxed coastal living in the entire country. For the prospective homebuyer, Santa Monica isn't just a zip code; it’s a blue-chip asset. It offers
Robert Schmalz
Jan 1


What Private Lenders Actually Look For in a Renovation Budget (Hint: It’s Not Just the ROI)
If you ask a new real estate investor what a Private Money Lender looks for in a deal, they will almost always say the same thing: "High ROI."--- They are wrong.!! While the Return on Investment (ROI) matters, it is not the primary motivator for a private lender. Remember, a lender is not an equity partner. If you make $100,000 profit on a flip, the lender still only makes their agreed-upon interest rate. They don't get the upside. Because they don't share the upside, their o
Robert Schmalz
Jan 1


12 Steps in Buying and Investing in Real Estate
Real estate represents not just a property, but a pathway to building lasting financial security and wealth. Real estate has long been considered a cornerstone of wealth building. Whether you're looking to purchase your first home, perform a "fix-and-flip," or build a portfolio of rental properties, the potential for financial growth is significant. However, the path to a successful real estate investment is rarely a straight line. It requires careful planning, diligent resea

Robert Schmalz
Dec 31, 2025
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