Finding a new home can be exciting. But deciding what you truly wand and need and can afford can be challenging. Making these decisions begin with setting priorities among many different preferences. Basic Criteria : Ideal Price Single family detached, condo or town home. Garage and number of spaces Total Square Footage Number of bedrooms Number of bathrooms Other Home Preferences: Style- Ranch, Two Story, split level Age of home How important is energy efficiency Preferences regarding floor plan (Where would you spend the most time? These are just … Continue reading...
Will we see 3% interest rates again.
A lot of buyers are pressing pause on their plans these days, holding out hope that mortgage rates will come down – maybe even back to the historic-low 3% from a few years ago. But here’s the thing: those rates were never meant to last. They were a short-term response to a very specific moment in time. And as the market finds its footing again, it’s time to reset expectations. Back in 2020 and 2021, 3% mortgage rates gave buyers a serious boost: more affordability, more buying power, and more opportunity. But those rates were a result of emergency economic policies during the height of a … Continue reading...
Buyers, lets talk!
Your credit score plays a big role in your homebuying journey, so it’s important to be prepared! It also plays a factor in other financial issues. Big Brother is always watching. 📝 Having a few key documents ready can make the mortgage process smoother and faster. I’m here to help you feel confident and informed every step of the way. Thinking about buying soon? Let’s chat and make a plan! … Continue reading...
What buyers need to know about credit scores.
When you’re considering buying a home, your credit score is one of the most important factors in the process. Think of it as your financial report card—a snapshot of how well you manage debt—that lenders use to assess your eligibility and offer the best possible loan options. As The Mortgage Reports explains: “Good credit scores show lenders that you have a history of responsibly managing your debts. The higher your score, the better your chances of qualifying for a mortgage.” However, many buyers misunderstand the credit requirements for purchasing a home. A study by Fannie Mae found … Continue reading...
Getting ready for Packing and Moving.
When you're getting ready for a move, packing can easily feel like the most overwhelming part. It’s not just tossing things into boxes and hoping for the best. Whether you're hiring one of the many trusted Los Angeles moving companies or planning a DIY move, knowing how to pack properly is crucial for protecting your belongings and making the whole process less stressful. While packing might seem straightforward, there's a real art to doing it right, especially when it comes to handling furniture, electronics, and fragile valuables. In this guide, we'll walk through practical packing tips for … Continue reading...
Home Buyer Checklist when buying a home.
🏡 First-Time Homebuyer Checklist ✅ 1. Financial Preparation Check and improve your credit score Create a homebuying budget Save for down payment (typically 3%–20%) Estimate closing costs (2%–5% of purchase price) Get pre-approved for a mortgage Understand your monthly payment (PITI: Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance) ✅ 2. Home Search List your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves Research neighborhoods (commute, schools, crime rates) Hire a trusted real estate agent Browse listings online and attend open … Continue reading...
Buying a home, do this first
Before you start house hunting, make sure you’re preapproved! ✅ It shows sellers you’re serious, gives you a clear budget, and can even help you close faster. In a competitive market, having that pre-approval letter can make all the difference. Ready to start the process? I can connect you with a trusted lender! … Continue reading...
How to Win in a Seller’s Market: 6 Must-Know Home Buying Tips
If you’ve been browsing homes lately, you’ve probably noticed the trend—homes are flying off the market, often with multiple offers and over asking price. Welcome to a seller’s market! While this kind of market can feel intimidating for buyers, it’s not impossible to land the home of your dreams. It just takes some strategy, speed, and a little local expertise. Here are some of our top tips for buying a home in a seller’s market: 1. Get Pre-Approved (Not Just Pre-Qualified!) In a competitive market, having a pre-approval letter in hand shows sellers you mean business. It proves you’re … Continue reading...
Are you Saving for a Home , your tax refund is a good start.
Are You Saving Up To Buy a Home? Your Tax Refund Can Help You’ve been working on your savings and dreaming of that moment when you finally have keys to a place that’s truly yours. What you might not realize is that your tax return could give you a little extra cash to help you get there sooner. As Freddie Mac notes: “ . . . your tax refund from the IRS can be a useful supplement to your homebuying budget.” So, if you’re getting a tax refund this year, you can use it to help you pay for some of the upfront costs that come with buying a home, like the down payment and closing costs. … Continue reading...
House Hunting: What to Look For & Where to Compromise
✅ Must-Haves (Don’t Settle Here!) These are your non-negotiables—things that affect your safety, budget, and daily life. Location Close to work, school, family, and essentials Safe neighborhood and good schools Budget Stay within your comfortable price range Don’t overextend financially Bedrooms & Bathrooms Enough space for your household now and in the near future Structural Integrity Solid foundation, roof, plumbing, and electrical Watch for water damage or signs of major repairs … Continue reading...