Main Highlights Home equity remains a powerful financial position for homeowners in 2026.  Years of price appreciation and responsible borrowing have created meaningful flexibility for many households. Many homeowners underestimate how much equity they actually control.  This can limit strategic options when planning a move, refinance, or long-term housing decision. Equity is increasingly used to create choice, not urgency.  Homeowners are leveraging it to improve timing, reduce risk, and navigate transitions more confidently. Using equity does not automatically require selling a home.  In the right conditions, it can support buying first, stabilizing monthly costs, or reinvesting in property value. The real value of equity is determined locally, not nationally.  Market-specific pricing, demand, and inventory trends shape how and when equity can be used most effectively. In 2026, home equity remains one of the most underutilized financial tools available to homeowners. According to Keeping Current Matters , many homeowners are sitting on substantial equity without a clear understanding of how it can support buying, selling, or long-term financial decisions in today’s market. This guide explains — clearly and practically — how home equity works in 2026, how it’s commonly used, and when it can create real flexibility for homeowners navigating changing market conditions. What Is Home Equity in 2026? Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth today and what you still owe on your mortgage. In many markets, years of price appreciation combined with responsible lending standards mean homeowners now hold historically strong equity positions. In simple terms: If your home value has grown and your loan balance has declined, your equity has increased — even if you haven’t taken any action. This matters because equity is not just a number on paper. It can influence timing, leverage, and confidence when making housing decisions. How Homeowners Commonly Use Equity in 2026 1. Funding a Down Payment Without Selling First One of the most common uses of home equity today is enabling homeowners to purchase a new property before selling their current one. Equity can sometimes be accessed to: Strengthen a purchase offer Reduce reliance on contingent contracts Create smoother transitions between homes For buyers moving within the same market — or upgrading locally — this flexibility can be a strategic advantage in competitive conditions. 2. Reducing Future Monthly Housing Costs Some homeowners choose to use equity to rebalance their finances rather than expand them. This may include: Paying down higher-interest debt Adjusting loan structures to improve cash flow Creating financial breathing room ahead of retirement or lifestyle changes In 2026, this approach is often about stability rather than expansion. 3. Reinvesting in the Property Itself Equity is also frequently reinvested back into the home — particularly when updates directly support long-term value or future resale. Examples include: Energy efficiency improvements Structural or systems upgrades Thoughtful layout changes aligned with buyer demand The focus in today’s market is less about cosmetic trends and more about durability, efficiency, and functionality. 4. Creating Strategic Options — Not Obligations Perhaps the most overlooked benefit of equity is optionality. Even when homeowners don’t plan to use their equity immediately, knowing it exists can: Support confident decision-making Reduce pressure around timing Provide a financial buffer during transitions Equity works best when viewed as a tool — not a trigger. Why Local Market Insight Matters Equity is a national concept, but its real-world impact is always local. Home values, buyer demand, inventory levels, and price momentum vary by market. Understanding how equity interacts with local conditions is what separates strategic decisions from reactive ones. That’s where professional guidance — grounded in data, not headlines — becomes essential. Final Perspective In 2026, home equity is about flexibility, not urgency. It can support a move, strengthen long-term stability, or simply provide clarity as market conditions evolve. If you’re considering your next step, understanding how your equity fits into today’s local market is key. Reach out to Benson Group  for thoughtful, data-driven guidance and a strategy aligned with your goals. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

San Mateo in 2026: Is It the Right Time to Buy or Sell? San Mateo enters February 2026 with a market that is steadily regaining momentum after the winter slowdown. Inventory is rising, pricing remains firm, and buyer activity is increasing as the spring cycle begins to take shape. Buyers still have strategic opportunities early in the season, while sellers who prepare and position now are best placed to capture peak spring demand. Main Highlights: Price momentum is holding into February. San Mateo County home prices remain firm as the market moves deeper into early spring. The upward trend established at the start of 2026 continues, reinforcing long-term price resilience rather than signaling short-term volatility. Condos continue to trail single-family homes. Condo pricing remains softer compared to houses, reflecting ongoing buyer selectivity and greater price sensitivity in this segment. This divergence has become more pronounced as spring activity begins to build. Inventory growth is clearly underway. By February, new listings are rising steadily from winter lows, confirming the seasonal inventory rebuild. This increase is expanding buyer choice without putting downward pressure on overall pricing. Buyer and luxury activity are beginning to re-engage. More homes are moving into contract as buyers return to the market, while luxury activity remains measured but is starting to reawaken ahead of its typical spring rebound. Market Context & Commentary According to the Compass San Mateo County Market Report , February 2026 data shows the market entering a normal early-spring transition rather than a period of weakness. Pricing remains firm, supported by continued demand for single-family homes — particularly 3- and 4-bedroom properties that anchor buyer activity. Condo performance remains more selective, reflecting greater price sensitivity, while inventory and contract activity are rebuilding in a typical seasonal sequence. Listings are rising first, with buyer engagement following, signaling improving market balance rather than overheating. Over the long term, San Mateo real estate has demonstrated consistent resilience across multiple market cycles. As the year progresses, success increasingly favors disciplined pricing, strong presentation, and informed decision-making as competition builds toward spring. San Mateo Market FAQs 1. When is the best time to buy in San Mateo in 2026? February still offers meaningful opportunities, particularly before peak spring competition intensifies. Negotiation leverage is narrowing compared to winter, but remains available on well-selected properties. 2. Will inventory continue to improve in 2026? Yes. Inventory growth that began in January is clearly underway and is expected to continue building through March and April. 3. What property types remain most resilient? Single-family homes — especially 3- and 4-bedroom properties — continue to lead demand, while condos require more precise pricing and longer timelines. Considering a move to San Mateo in 2026? Benson Group can hel p  you make sense of today's data and build a thoughtful strategy — whether you're preparing for spring activity or exploring off-season options. Source: compass.com

Main Highlights: Hybrid work is now a permanent workforce model, influencing where professionals choose to live San Mateo offers central Peninsula access without the pressure of daily commuting Housing layouts align with work-from-home needs, supporting long-term value Lifestyle balance—not just proximity to jobs—drives buyer demand Market stability is reinforced by limited supply and sustained tech employment Both buyers and sellers benefit from clarity in a hybrid-driven market   Hybrid work has reshaped how professionals evaluate where they live. By 2026, the conversation has moved beyond remote versus in-office work and toward something more practical: Which cities support flexibility without sacrificing career access, lifestyle, or long-term value? According to the County of San Mateo , telework and hybrid arrangements are no longer viewed as temporary solutions but as long-term workforce strategies designed to support productivity, retention, and quality of life. This institutional shift has had a measurable impact on housing demand and residential decision-making across the Peninsula. Within that context, San Mateo  has emerged as one of the most strategically positioned cities for hybrid and tech professionals navigating the next phase of work and life. A Location Designed for Optional Commuting San Mateo's central position on the Peninsula has always been valuable, but hybrid work has amplified its relevance. Instead of planning life around a daily commute, professionals now prioritize optional access—the ability to reach offices when needed without structuring their entire lifestyle around travel. From San Mateo, residents can realistically access both Silicon Valley and San Francisco using Caltrain or Highway 101. For hybrid workers commuting only a few days per week, this flexibility reduces friction while preserving time and energy for work and personal life. The result is a location that feels connected without being overwhelming. Housing That Supports How People Work Today Hybrid work has shifted what buyers value inside the home. Square footage alone is no longer enough; functionality, layout, and adaptability now play a critical role in decision-making. San Mateo's housing stock aligns well with these priorities. Many homes offer flexible floor plans, bonus rooms, or layouts that naturally support dedicated workspaces. Condos and townhomes increasingly reflect modern design standards, including better sound separation and efficient use of space. These features matter because they allow homes to function as both productive work environments and comfortable living spaces. Properties that support multiple uses tend to maintain demand across changing market conditions, contributing to long-term value stability. Lifestyle as a Strategic Advantage For hybrid professionals, housing decisions are no longer purely career-driven. Lifestyle has become a central factor, influencing where buyers choose to settle and how long they plan to stay. San Mateo offers a balance that appeals to professionals seeking stability rather than constant movement. A walkable downtown, access to parks and open space, and proximity to the coast create an environment that supports everyday life. The pace feels more manageable than major urban centers, while still offering cultural and recreational variety. This lifestyle balance encourages longer ownership horizons, which often translates into more stable housing demand over time. Market Resilience in a Hybrid Economy A common question among buyers and sellers is whether hybrid work will continue to support housing demand. In San Mateo, several structural factors suggest durability rather than short-term fluctuation. The city benefits from sustained tech and professional employment across the Peninsula, continued acceptance of hybrid work by major employers, and limited housing supply relative to demand. These conditions create a market that is less dependent on any single trend and more anchored in long-term fundamentals. Rather than experiencing dramatic swings, San Mateo tends to adjust gradually—an attractive quality for both homeowners and investors. What This Means for Buyers For buyers, San Mateo represents clarity in an evolving market. Purchasing here is not a speculative decision based on temporary work policies. Instead, it reflects confidence in a city that accommodates multiple lifestyles and work models. Buyers gain flexibility, livability, and access without sacrificing long-term value. For professionals planning to stay through multiple career phases, adaptability is increasingly important. What This Means for Sellers For sellers, understanding why hybrid professionals choose San Mateo is essential for effective positioning. Homes that highlight work-from-home readiness, efficient layouts, and proximity to amenities tend to resonate more strongly with today's buyer pool. Clear presentation and thoughtful storytelling can help sellers align their property with current demand drivers, supporting stronger engagement even in a more selective market. San Mateo continues to reward patience and long-term thinking over quick decisions. As hybrid work reshapes how people buy and sell, the most compelling opportunities are emerging for those who take a thoughtful, strategic approach. If you’re considering your next move or want help understanding how these trends apply to your situation locally, contact Benson Group – we’re always happy to walk through the details and help you plan with clarity and confidence.

Benson Group Properties Properties Leased 719 W Poplar Ave, San Mateo $16,000/mo Bed 4 Bath 2.5 Size 3,675 sqft For Sale 1625 Palmetto Ave, Pacifica $3,294,000 Bed 8 Bath 8 Size 7,480 sqft Sold 647 Vanessa Dr, San Mateo $1,920,000 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,400 sqft Leased 105 Pepper Ave, Burlingame $11,000/mo Bed 4 Bath 2 Size 2,340 sqft Sold 1133 Paloma Ave, Burlingame Price Withheld Bed 11 Bath 9 Size ~8,000 sqft Sold 1201 Bernal Ave, Burlingame $2,900,000 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,730 sqft Sold 2721 Fairbrook Dr, Mountain View $4,150,000 Bed 4 Bath 3 Size 2,307 sqft Sold 132 Lakeshore Dr, Burlingame $2,650,000 Bed 3 Bath 2.5 Size 1,470 sqft Sold 703 W Poplar Ave, San Mateo Price Withheld Bed 4 Bath 4.5 Size 3,285 sqft Off-Market 16 Engle Rd, San Mateo $2,250,000 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,360 sqft Sold 313 Seville Way, San Mateo $2,524,150 Bed 3 Bath 2 Size 1,720 sqft Sold 537 Natoma St. #202, San Francisco $450,000 Bed 1 Bath 1 Size 518 sqft

Here to help you find your dream home. The San Francisco Bay Area is one of the most desirable real estate markets in the world, and we understand that navigating the property buying process can seem challenging. With our expertise and knowledge, you are in trusted hands. We will guide and advise you during every step of the buying process to help you find the perfect home that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Truly a remarkable experience. Laurie and Andrew are true pro's and partner's in the home buying process. David and Cameron | Buyers Our Process 01 Intro Meeting Get acquainted with us in person or remotely to discuss our process, review important information and documents, and answer any questions you have. 03 Narrow After determining your key criteria, we'll focus your search even further and begin to discuss the offer process in detail. 02 Discover Once representation is established, we'll begin the home search. We'll present you with both on and off-market properties as well as schedule showings on your behalf. 04 Offer When you would like to write an offer, we will walk you through every step; including disclosure review, contingency terms, and negotiation strategies. Schools Matter Renowned for its innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge technology integration, and diverse curriculum, the schools in the Bay Area nurture a culture of creativity and critical thinking. With a focus on preparing students for the challenges of the future, the school system collaborates with the region's vibrant tech industry and cultural institutions, providing unique experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Home to 7 of the the Top 10 Schools in CA Why should you buy with us? 1 Local Expertise As lifelong residents, we offer unparalleled insight and a deep understanding of the local community. Negotiation Prowess We consistently negotiate purchases for under list price, saving thousands for our buyers. 3 Advanced Tech Compass has developed an intuitive, integrated platform for agents and clients alike. Schedule a Consultation

Benson Group is a full service Real Estate Team proudly representing Compass in Burlingame. 1467 Cabrillo Ave Burlingame Let Our Legacy Help Build Yours We started the Benso n Group with a singular mission: client success. We understand that buying or selling a home is a monumental investment, and we approach it with the gravity i t deserves. We blend seasoned expertise, innovative strategies, and the powerful synergy of a family partnership to consistently achieve exceptional results for our clients. Schedule a Consultation BUYERS Get access to the most homes, both on and off the market. "They took the time to understand our hopes and budget, which helped them to keep our searches focused on the right houses rather than just every house that met the Zillow filters." Clarke Family | Buyers SELLERS Don't worry, we'll take care of everything. "When the time to sell arrived, Laurie and Andrew coordinated every aspect including photos, promotional materials, inspections, staging and pricing and at each step kept up a steady line of communication." Jay and Maria | Sellers Burlingame The "City of Trees", excellent schools, and walkability. View More San Mateo Sprawling downtown, great for a night out. Great school system. View More Hillsborough Charming, luxury community in the heart of the Peninsula. Award winning schools. View More Foster City Innovative lagoon system offering waterfront lifestyle. View More Communities Work With Us Laurie and Andrew Benson bring a dynamic blend of experience, innovation, and family synergy to deliver exceptional results for their clients. As lifelong residents, they provide a unique local perspective complemented by expertise in negotiation and marketing. With their dedicated team, they consistently exceed client expectations, ensuring an engaging and successful real estate journey. Schedule a Consultation What Clients Say "Laurie and Andrew are extremely professional and you could always be sure that every step of any transaction would be conducted thoroughly, expertly and in a very timely manner." Jess and Romy | Burlingame Sellers Keep in touch Email Join Our Mailing List Subscribed!