California and especially Southern California real estate numbers have been largely affected by low inventory, with Los Angeles seeing a whopping 60% fall from 2010 inventory numbers. The high demand (we are seeing multiple bids on properties in areas like Echo Park) and lower inventory is bringing up home prices – good for homeowners needing to sell, not as good for those looking for the lower-priced deals. Strangely enough, the modest increase in sales we have seen does not appear to match up with the significant drop in inventory (meaning a home sold means a home no longer for sale), however investor money and low down-payment buyers are the ones buying, according to DoctorHousingBubble.com.