Our Blog

Helpful real estate info from the pros.

Tax Facts for Sellers

Tax Facts for Sellers

Much like any business, there are expenses when selling a home. It’s important to know the various costs of selling your property namely the real estate agent commission, pre-inspections, home staging, etc. Today, we’re talking about the taxes that impact your home...

Can Neighbors Affect My Property Value?

Can Neighbors Affect My Property Value?

In real estate, we use the term “external obsolescence”, meaning a depreciation in the value of a home due to factors that exist outside the property itself. And the neighborhood is one. Ideally, you’d want to have a community that has the following: Key businesses,...

How to Change the Size of a Room with Paint

How to Change the Size of a Room with Paint

We shared in a previous blog about the power of color and how it creates mood in a space. Now, we’ll talk about the power of paint on how it can create a visual impact on a room. The amazing people at Liven Design illustrate how you can seemingly change the physical...

Quick Morning Cleaning Routine

Quick Morning Cleaning Routine

Busy moms, we hear you! Hate having to constantly catch up on cleaning every after work or on the weekends? A few minutes in the morning is all you need — seriously! You can achieve a clean and tidy home in a fraction of the time and here’s a cleaning plan you can...

The Difference Between Using the Bank and a Mortgage Broker

The Difference Between Using the Bank and a Mortgage Broker

We get this question a lot from our first time buyers — are banks and mortgage brokers the same? The quick answer is no and here’s the definition and difference between the two. A bank offers you a home loan. They usually have a set rate and strict rules for approving...

Does Size Matter? Should I Buy a Big House or a Small House?

Does Size Matter? Should I Buy a Big House or a Small House?

Not sure what size of home is the right one for you? We share the pros and cons of having a big house or a small house. Now, the size of a home depends on how you define it or relative to your current living situation. When we talk about small houses, we’re not...

Reasons To Speak With A Lender Even If You’re Not Ready To Buy Yet

Reasons To Speak With A Lender Even If You’re Not Ready To Buy Yet

Buyers usually start their house-hunting process just after having saved up for a downpayment.  It makes perfect sense right? But did you know that you need not wait until you saved up for a downpayment before talking to a mortgage lender? The following are the...

Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photographer

Prepare Your Home for a Real Estate Photographer

  A photogenic home makes a good first impression and attracts more potential buyers. So sellers, take note — the following are ways to prepare your home for the listing photos.   Make it sparkle We clean up when guests come over, right? So much more when...

How to Know if You Can Really Afford to Buy a Home

How to Know if You Can Really Afford to Buy a Home

If you’ve decided to buy a home and want to learn more about the financials, then you’re in the right place. You’re probably wondering how much you can afford. The following items are the most important money matters to consider. Know Your Debt-To-Income (DTI) Ratio...

Loan Denied? Here Are Your Next Steps

Loan Denied? Here Are Your Next Steps

Feeling lost when the door to a home loan seems to close? If you don't qualify for a home loan in San Diego, there are several steps you can take to improve your financial situation and increase your chances of qualifying for a mortgage in the future. We’re sharing...

A Guide to Selecting the Best Countertop

A Guide to Selecting the Best Countertop

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and its countertops are its soul. Choosing the perfect countertop material is a decision that can define not only your kitchen's style but also its functionality and durability.  The most common kitchen countertop materials...

Amazon Finds For Thanksgiving

Amazon Finds For Thanksgiving

Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration this year? Whether you're hosting a grand feast, a cozy gathering, or simply looking to add a touch of autumn warmth to your home, we've scoured the vast aisles of Amazon to uncover delightful finds to make your...

Top Red Flags in Home Purchase

Top Red Flags in Home Purchase

In this blog post, we’re sharing with you how to know if you’re looking at your new home sweet home or a nightmare waiting to happen. While many of these issues have quick and efficient solutions, they are important considerations when making a home purchase. Always...

What a Buyer’s Agent Does for You

What a Buyer’s Agent Does for You

Purchasing a new home involves more than simply selecting a listing and moving in. It can be a time-consuming and sometimes chaotic process for those who have zero experience. One of the major challenges is finding the perfect home at the right price. Additionally, it...

Creepiest Things We’ve Seen at a Property

Creepiest Things We’ve Seen at a Property

It’s that time of the year when we all embrace spooky thrills. To celebrate the Halloween spirit, our agents and friends in the real estate industry unveil their creepiest encounters while on duty. “Dead Man” in the Garage "A colleague of mine was shocked to have...

Overcoming Moving Anxiety: Three Practical Tips

Overcoming Moving Anxiety: Three Practical Tips

  If you’re dealing with overcoming moving anxiety due to low housing inventory in San Diego, you’re not alone. Many homeowners are nervous about selling because they fear they won’t find a new place to call home. It’s understandable, but if you’re...

Easy Updates to Refresh Your Home’s Style

Easy Updates to Refresh Your Home’s Style

Are you craving a more well-designed home but low on budget and time? Here are nine minor DIY home upgrades that can make a huge impact without breaking walls and your wallet. Paint Adding a fresh coat of paint is quick, affordable, and can easily give a space a whole...

Gray Kitchens That Are Anything But Dull

Gray Kitchens That Are Anything But Dull

Gray kitchens offer a sophisticated and flexible design canvas, making them a popular and great choice for homeowners looking to create a modern and timeless kitchen space. With the right design elements and thoughtful touches, you can make gray kitchens more...