On The Move

February 2026

I’ve hinted at this before but don’t know if I’ve said it… I grew up in the Midwest, predominately Michigan, then on to Virginia, NYC, London, and back to NYC. What do these all have in common… Winter! Until I moved to California, I had know idea one could live without winter. That probably sounds dumb, but LIFE CHANGING when you discover this as fact! Yes, I am a bit envious when I hear a big snow storm is rolling in… as it brought snow days from school (no internet existed yet, woot!) and in NYC, you could literally stomp through Times Square as there wasn’t a taxi or car in sight. But, when I saw this picture I just thought “blessings” I am in California now!
Now, picking up a point from the last
On The Move
, if you got a slow start or fumbled on your January 1st New Year’s resolution, mark your calendars for February 17th which brings us the Lunar New Year and another New Year to kick-off resolutions. 2026 is the year of the Fire Horse which is said to
symbolize energy, passion, and rapid progress. And, if that doesn’t work for you, take liberties and create you own New Year start date!
Back to real estate! Can someone tell me how to fi nd the “perfect family home” in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Los Altos, or Mountain View that doesn’t have buyers entering a scrum (rugby not tech) for the property?!?!?!? It’s quite competitive out there for the young family buyer!

– Lisa

On The Move is a curated mix of what’s inspiring me lately, what’s shifting in the market, and what might just shift your perspective or inspire you too.

“If you want to improve, be content to be thought foolish and stupid.”

– Epictetus

Peninsula Real Polished & Perfectly Placed.

4388 El Camino Real, #130
Los Altos, CA
2bd | 2 bath | 1200sqft
$1,348,000
HOA: $818 p/m

Data For Decisive Moves

Moves & Metrics, set to launch this month, is a new monthly companion to On The Move,
curated by yours truly. It’s purpose is to deliver distilled, snackable insights from Patrick Carlisle’s in-depth Bay area market reports (see below).
Look for it in your inbox!

An Iconic Pen Becomes Art

My dad always wrote with a Bic Cristal and despite all the new pens one can choose from — if one still even writes 😉 — I always come back to this pen.
PS: Say a blessing as I entered my name in the hopes of being able to purchase!

Read All About It

Photo Credit: Bic via FastCompany

Insights From Patrick Carlisle

Chief Market Analyst, Compass

“Generally speaking, inventory levels across the Bay Area are extremely low. Note that January sales statistics generally refl ect the very slow holiday market of December and early January when the offers were negotiated. Listing and sales activity typically accelerates very quickly through spring, with demand usually competing for an insuffi cient supply of listings for sale.
“
Check out the latest local housing data below:

San Mateo County
Santa Clara County

One Estate. Without Equal.

Lupine Rd.
Los Altos, Hills CA
8bd | 11 bath | 10,085 sqft | 78,843 sqft lot
$19,800,00

Let’s Make Your Next Move Distinctly Yours. Smart Moves. Bold Moves. Real Estate Moves. Call, text or…

Lisa M. Musich

DRE# 02210590

REALTOR®

M: 415.619.1426

lisa.musich@compass.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 01527235, 01527365. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No ﬁnancial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reﬂect actual property conditions.