News

Berkeley and Oakland sit in different price worlds, and the numbers behind each tell a different story. OAKLAND, Calif., [Oct 5] – Housing headlines swing between boom, bust, and "K-shaped" split, often in the same week. bridgeMLS year-to-date 2026 data explains why: real estate is local, and in the East Bay it is often local to the price tier. In both Oakland and Berkeley, homes in the $1M+ tier are moving faster and closing further above asking than homes under $1M. Oakland

New protections are coming for California homes affected by wildfire smoke. AB1642 establishes a statewide standard for determining when a smoke-contaminated home is safe for reoccupation. AB 1795 establishes that insurers will be required to pay for smoke contamination testing and will be prohibited from ending payments for a policyholder’s rental unit and other living expenses until the home is deemed safe to occupy. The laws also establish timelines for inspections and pay

The Bridge Association of REALTORS® Community Foundation announced that its 2026 grant cycle is open, with applications accepted through October 15. The Foundation will award more than $30,000 in community grants to small non-profits in Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Kensington, Oakland and Piedmont. The presentation will include a reception for all grantees and Association members at the headquarters at 2855 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley on Thursday, November 19th 2026 from 4-7pm.