Answers by KRISTINA TER-OVSEPYAN

Determining whether a home is overpriced isn't always as simple as comparing the list price to other homes in the area. The best way to evaluate a home's value is by looking at recent comparable sales, also known as "comps." These are similar homes that have recently sold in the same neighborhood and provide a much clearer picture of what buyers are actually willing to pay. It's also important to consider how long the home has been on the market. If a property has been listed for an extended period with few or no offers, or if the seller has made multiple price reductions, it could be a sign that the original asking price was too high. Keep in mind that upgrades, lot size, location, school district, and the overall condition of the home can all influence its value. A higher price isn't necessarily unreasonable if the home offers features that comparable properties don't. One of the biggest advantages of working with a real estate agent is having someone who can analyze the market, review comparable sales, and help you determine whether the asking price reflects the home's true value. That information allows you to make a competitive offer without overpaying. Ultimately, the goal isn't just to buy a home—it's to buy the right home at a fair market price. Doing your research before submitting an offer can give you confidence that you're making a smart investment.

Not always. A strong first offer can be your best offer, especially if it’s close to your asking price and has good terms. Waiting for more offers can sometimes pay off, but it can also mean missing a great buyer. Your Realtor can help you compare your options and decide what’s best for your goals.

Absolutely! As a REALTOR®, I’d say there are a few ways to potentially identify an upcoming sale before it officially hits the market. Public records, permits, recent property activity, and conversations within the neighborhood can sometimes provide clues—but there’s no guaranteed way to know someone’s plans before they decide to sell. If you’re seriously interested in the property, one option is to have a local REALTOR® discreetly reach out to the homeowner on your behalf. I can also keep an eye on the property and the neighborhood for any indication that it may be coming to market. Sometimes, a thoughtful, non-pushy introduction can open the door to an opportunity **before the home is ever publicly listed.** 🏡 If you’re looking for something specific in your neighborhood, feel free to message me—I’d be happy to help you explore your options.

Hello Kylie, This is a great question, and it's one I recommend discussing with a CPA before you sell. Based on what you shared, you owned the home for 5 years but only lived in it for 1 year. To qualify for the capital gains exclusion, you generally need to have owned and lived in the home as your primary residence for at least 2 of the last 5 years, before selling. If you don't meet that requirement, you typically won't qualify for the $250,000 exclusion. That said, there may still be ways to reduce your tax bill. For example: * Keep records of major home improvements, since those can increase your cost basis and reduce your taxable gain. * If the property has been used as an investment or rental, there may be other tax strategies available depending on your situation. * A CPA or tax professional can help determine if you qualify for any exceptions or planning opportunities before you list the home. As a realtor, I always encourage my sellers to speak with a tax professional before listing so there are no surprises at closing. Best of luck!

Absolutely—here’s a more natural, conversational version you can post as a REALTOR®: **If you’re buying a home in California, closing costs are definitely something you’ll want to budget for in addition to your down payment. 🏡** The exact amount can vary depending on the purchase price, loan program, lender, property taxes, insurance, title and escrow fees, and other factors. There isn’t really a one-size-fits-all number, which is why I always recommend having your lender provide a detailed estimate of your **cash to close** before you start shopping. Typically, buyers may have costs related to the mortgage, appraisal, title and escrow, homeowners insurance, prepaid property taxes, and other fees. As far as **who pays what**, it depends on the purchase contract and the specific transaction. And yes, there can be opportunities to **negotiate closing costs**. Depending on the market and the seller’s situation, we may be able to negotiate seller credits toward certain buyer closing costs. There are also ways to compare lenders and potentially reduce some fees. My biggest advice is **don’t just budget for your down payment—plan for your total cash to close.** A good REALTOR® and lender can work together to help you understand the numbers upfront so there aren’t any surprises later. If you’re thinking about buying in California and want to know what your estimated cash-to-close could look like at different price points, **send me a message. I’d be happy to help you break it down!** 🔑

Helli William, Open houses are not a waste of time, but they're not what sells every home, although I love doing open houses! :-) An open house can help increase exposure, attract buyers who may not have scheduled a private showing, and create interest in a new listing. In some cases, it can even lead to multiple offers if several buyers become interested at the same time. That said, most serious buyers today find homes online first and then schedule a private showing with their agent. That's why professional photos, accurate pricing, and strong online marketing are often more important than the open house itself. The best strategy is to use an open house as one part of a complete marketing plan—not the entire plan. When combined with great marketing and proper pricing, an open house can be a valuable tool to help get your home sold.

A right of first refusal (ROFR) gives someone the opportunity to purchase a property before the owner sells it to someone else, but it doesn't automatically give them the power to buy the home whenever they want. For example, if a tenant has a right of first refusal written into their lease and the owner decides to sell, the owner must first offer the tenant the chance to buy the property on the same terms as another acceptable offer. If the tenant declines or doesn't act within the timeframe outlined in the agreement, the owner is generally free to sell to someone else. If the owner passes away, things can be different. In most cases, the property becomes part of the owner's estate and is transferred according to their will or, if there isn't one, under state inheritance laws. The owner's children don't automatically have priority just because they're family—they inherit based on the estate plan or applicable probate laws. Whether a right of first refusal still applies after the owner's death depends on how the agreement was written and state law. Some rights continue to bind the property or the estate, while others may not. It's a situation where the exact wording of the lease or agreement is very important. If you're dealing with this scenario, it's a good idea to have the lease and any estate documents reviewed by a real estate attorney. A small detail in the contract can make a big difference in how a right of first refusal is enforced.

As a Realtor, I’d be very cautious with this. You generally can’t just raffle off your home like a traditional giveaway, especially if people are paying for a chance to win it. Once you charge money for entries and award the property based on chance, you can potentially run into **gambling, lottery, sweepstakes, and state-specific laws. There have been cases where people have attempted creative “raffle” models to sell homes, but the legal requirements can be complicated, and what may be permitted in one state may be prohibited in another. You’d want an attorney who specifically understands **real estate and gaming/lottery laws** to review the structure before collecting a single dollar. There are also practical issues beyond legality—title transfer, taxes, mortgage/liens, insurance, disclosures, and what happens if you don't sell enough tickets. So while the idea sounds exciting (and $2 million $1 tickets for a $1 million house definitely sounds tempting ), **I would not try it without getting legal advice first.** If your goal is simply to maximize the amount you receive from the property, there are other creative but much safer strategies a Realtor can help you explore.

Hello Juanita, Yes—you absolutely have a say. As the homeowner, you can set reasonable expectations for showings to help protect your privacy. A common approach is to ask your listing agent to include a note in the MLS and showing instructions requesting that visitors refrain from taking photos or videos during showings. While it's difficult to enforce completely, most agents will respect your wishes and remind their buyers before entering the home. Using professional listing photos for marketing is standard practice, and if you'd prefer to allow additional photos only after an accepted offer during inspections or due diligence, that's a reasonable request to discuss with your agent. Keep in mind that some buyers like to take a few photos to help remember features when comparing homes. Restricting photography could be a slight inconvenience for some, but for many sellers, the added privacy is well worth it. The key is finding the right balance between protecting your family's privacy and making the home as accessible as possible to serious buyers. A good listing agent can help set clear expectations while keeping your sale on track.

Hello Morgan, No—you don't need to be pre-approved before finding a real estate agent. In fact, many buyers connect with an agent first. A good agent can help you understand the buying process, recommend trusted lenders, and make sure you're taking the right steps from the beginning. That said, getting pre-approved early is one of the smartest things you can do because it gives you a clear budget, strengthens your future offers, and helps you move quickly when you find the right home. Most agents are happy to start working with you before you have a pre-approval letter, but they may focus on planning, discussing your goals, and narrowing down neighborhoods rather than scheduling a lot of home tours until financing is in place. Sellers also tend to take offers much more seriously when they're backed by a pre-approval. My advice is to do both at the same time: connect with an agent and begin the pre-approval process. That way, by the time you find a home you love, you'll be ready to make a strong, competitive offer without unnecessary delays.

In most cases, it's best to leave your dog at home when attending a home showing, even if they're well-behaved. Remember, you're a guest in someone else's home, and the seller may have pets of their own, allergies, or simply prefer that animals not be brought into the property. If you'll be spending several hours touring homes, let your real estate agent know ahead of time. They may be able to arrange your schedule to include breaks, shorten the tour, or confirm with listing agents whether a pet would be allowed in certain homes. Some vacant properties may be more flexible, but it's always important to get permission first. That said, your dog's needs are still an important consideration. Once you've narrowed your search to a few favorite homes, it can be helpful to revisit them with your dog—if the seller agrees. This gives you a chance to see how your pet reacts to the space, the yard, and the neighborhood before making a final decision. Finding the right home means finding one that's a good fit for every member of your household, including your four-legged family members. With a little planning and communication, you can make the home-buying process work for both you and your dog.

Not necessarily. Seller financing can be a great option in the right situation, especially if the interest rate is lower than what a traditional lender is offering. It can also provide more flexible terms and make it easier to close the deal. That said, it's important to do your homework. Before moving forward, make sure you understand the interest rate, repayment schedule, whether there's a balloon payment, any prepayment penalties, and what happens if you miss a payment. Those details can have a significant impact on the overall cost of the loan. It's also wise to have a real estate attorney review the financing agreement before you sign. Even if the seller has good intentions, you want to ensure the terms are clearly written, legally enforceable, and protect both parties. Seller financing isn't inherently a bad idea—it can actually be a win-win for both buyer and seller. The key is making sure the agreement is fair, transparent, and fully understood before you commit.

Hello Tamarah, Yes, you may be able to cancel your listing agreement, but it depends on the terms of the contract you signed. If you've decided you no longer want to sell and would rather keep the property as a rental, the first step is to talk with your listing agent. In many cases, if both you and the agent agree, the listing can be canceled with a signed release. Before canceling, review your listing agreement for any cancellation terms or a "protection period." This is a clause that may require you to pay a commission if someone who saw the property during the listing ends up buying it after the agreement is canceled. Since it's only been a few weeks and the market hasn't met your expectations, it's completely reasonable to discuss your options with your agent. If your plans have changed, many agents are willing to work with you to find the best solution. If you're unsure what your agreement says, ask your agent to explain it or have a real estate attorney review it before making a final decision.

I can understand how discouraging that must feel, especially after 117 days on the market. While it's natural to wonder if relisting or raising the price might help, I'd be cautious about increasing the price unless there's been a significant change in the market or you've made major improvements to the home. If your home has had multiple price reductions without generating offers, it's worth looking beyond the price alone. I'd want to review the marketing strategy, professional photography, online exposure, showing activity, and feedback from buyers who have toured the home. Often, those details reveal what's preventing buyers from making an offer. Relisting can be a good option in some cases, but it's most effective when it's paired with meaningful changes, such as new listing photos, improved staging, updated marketing, or a fresh pricing strategy. Simply relisting the same home with the same presentation usually doesn't produce different results. My advice would be to have an honest conversation with your realtor about what's been done to market the property, what feedback has been received, and whether any adjustments need to be made. If you're not confident in the current strategy, getting a second opinion from another experienced local agent can also provide valuable insight. Sometimes a fresh perspective is all it takes to reposition a home and attract the right buyer.

Yes, you can buy land in California and own an RV, but whether you can legally live in that RV on the property is a different question. With California real estate prices being so high, I completely understand why buying a piece of land and living in an RV can sound like an attractive alternative. The catch is that California does not have one statewide rule that applies to every property. The zoning and local regulations for the specific parcel are what really matter. Some counties allow RVs on private property under certain circumstances, while others do not allow you to use an RV as a full-time residence on vacant land. There may also be requirements involving permits, septic, water, utilities, or having a permitted home on the property. One thing I always recommend is not assuming that because you can park an RV on the land, you can legally live in it. Those are two very different things. Before purchasing, I would check the property's zoning and contact the local planning department to confirm: Is residential use allowed on the property? Can an RV be occupied as a full-time residence? Is a temporary RV permit available? Are there requirements for a house to already exist or be under construction? Can the property have a well or septic system?

Hi Levi, Yes, you should consider contingent offers as they’re very common, especially in balanced or slower markets. A contingent offer simply means the buyer’s purchase depends on certain conditions being met, such as a home inspection, financing approval, appraisal, or selling their current home. The key is understanding the specific contingency and how much risk it adds. Some contingencies, like financing or inspections, are standard. Others, such as a home sale contingency, may require a closer look because they can affect your timeline. If you accept a contingent offer and a stronger offer comes along, what happens depends on the terms of your contract. In some cases, your agreement may include provisions that allow you to continue marketing the property or give the first buyer a chance to remove their contingency before you accept another offer. Without those provisions, you’re generally obligated to honor the signed contract. The best approach is to review each offer based on the overall terms—not just the price. A slightly lower offer with fewer contingencies and a stronger buyer may be a better choice than a higher offer with significant conditions. Your real estate agent can help you evaluate the risks and negotiate terms that protect your interests while keeping the sale moving forward.

Buying a home in California requires a few key documents, and having them ready before you start shopping can make the process much smoother while showing sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer. The most important document is a **mortgage pre-approval letter** if you're financing the purchase. A pre-approval shows sellers that a lender has already reviewed your finances and determined how much you can borrow, which can make your offer much more competitive. Your lender will typically ask for documents such as recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements, a valid photo ID, and information about your assets and debts. If you're self-employed, you may need to provide additional financial documentation. If you're paying cash, having **proof of funds**, such as a recent bank or investment account statement, lets sellers know you have the resources to complete the purchase. Once your offer is accepted, you'll also sign several purchase documents, including the purchase agreement, disclosures from the seller, escrow paperwork, loan documents (if applicable), and closing documents before you officially take ownership of the home. One of the best ways to strengthen your position as a buyer is to get pre-approved before you begin your home search. It not only helps you understand your budget but also gives sellers confidence that you're ready to move forward when you find the right home.

A common misconception is that California has a higher credit score requirement than other states—but that's not actually the case. Credit score requirements are set by the loan program and lender, not by the state you're buying in. In general, many conventional loans require a credit score of 620 or higher, while some FHA loans may allow scores as low as 580 with the required down payment. That said, a higher credit score can help you qualify for better interest rates and loan terms, which can make a big difference in your monthly payment. Keep in mind that your credit score is only one part of the equation. Lenders also look at your income, debt-to-income ratio, employment history, down payment, and overall financial profile when deciding whether to approve your loan. If you're thinking about buying a home in California and aren't sure where you stand, it's worth speaking with a lender. They can review your finances and let you know what loan options you may qualify for—and what steps, if any, could help strengthen your application.

It depends on the condition of the ceiling and your local market, but in many cases, yes—removing a popcorn ceiling before selling can be a worthwhile investment. Popcorn ceilings can make a home feel dated, and many buyers today prefer a smooth, modern finish. Removing it can make rooms feel brighter, taller, and more move-in ready, which can help your home show better and appeal to a larger pool of buyers. That said, if your home is older, it's important to have the ceiling tested for asbestos before removing it, as homes built before the 1980s may contain asbestos in the ceiling texture. While removing a popcorn ceiling isn't likely to dramatically increase your home's appraised value on its own, it can improve your home's overall presentation, which may lead to stronger offers and a quicker sale. If the ceiling is in good condition and your budget is limited, there may be other updates—such as fresh paint, new lighting, or updated flooring—that offer a better return. The best approach depends on your home's price point, condition, and what buyers expect in your neighborhood.

Hello June, Yes, but the process depends on the terms of the listing agreement you signed. The first step is to have an honest conversation with your agent. If you're unhappy because of communication, marketing, or another issue, they may be able to address your concerns. If you still want to move on, ask to be released from the agreement. Many brokerages are willing to sign a mutual cancellation if both parties agree. Before canceling, be sure to review your listing agreement for any cancellation terms. Some agreements include protection clauses that may apply if a buyer who was introduced to the property during the listing later purchases the home. If your agent refuses to cancel, you can also speak with their managing broker to discuss your options. My advice is to keep the conversation professional and focus on finding the best solution for everyone. If you have questions about your specific situation or aren't sure what your agreement means, I'd be happy to help explain the process and point you in the right direction.

Hello Miguel, It depends on your goals and your budget. If you're planning to sell soon, you usually don't need to remodel half the home. Buyers tend to notice when one part of the house is beautifully updated while the rest feels dated. In many cases, simple improvements like fresh paint, new lighting, landscaping, and minor repairs provide a better return on investment than a major partial remodel. If you're remodeling because you plan to stay in the home for several years, focus on the areas you'll enjoy the most, such as the kitchen, bathrooms, or primary living spaces. Before starting any major project, talk with a local real estate agent. They can help you determine which upgrades are most likely to increase your home's value and which improvements may not pay off in your local market.

Hello, Darren, Real estate fraud isn't something that happens every day, but it does happen often enough that homeowners should be aware of it. One type that's been getting more attention lately is **deed fraud** (also called title fraud). Deed fraud happens when someone illegally files documents to transfer ownership of your property without your knowledge. Criminals may use forged signatures or fake documents to make it look like they own your home or have an interest in it. In many cases, homeowners don't realize anything is wrong until they try to sell, refinance, or receive unexpected notices related to their property. A few ways to help protect yourself are to keep an eye on your property records, review your property tax statements, sign up for county property fraud alerts if they're available, and stay in touch with your real estate professional. A quick annual check-in can go a long way toward catching issues early. I actually wrote a blog that explains deed fraud in more detail, how it happens, and what homeowners can do to protect themselves. If you're interested, I'd be happy to share it!

A kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to increase your home's value, but it's helpful to think of it as improving both your home's value and its appeal to buyers—not necessarily getting back every dollar you spend. While every home and market is different, a minor to mid-range kitchen remodel can often increase a home's value by 3% to 7%, with homeowners typically recouping 60% to 90% of their renovation costs when they sell. For example, if your home is worth $500,000, a well-designed kitchen update could potentially add $15,000 to $35,000 in value. Keep in mind that high-end, luxury remodels don't always deliver a higher return, since buyers may not be willing to pay a premium for every upscale finish. If resale is your goal, focus on updates that offer the broadest buyer appeal, such as refreshed or new cabinetry, quartz countertops, modern lighting, updated hardware, stainless steel appliances, and fresh paint. In many cases, a bright, functional, and move-in-ready kitchen will provide a better return than an overly customized renovation.

Hello Chin, Yes, I would recommend getting an appraisal, even if you're paying cash. When you're buying with cash, there's no lender requiring an appraisal, but it can still be a smart investment. An appraisal gives you an independent opinion of the home's market value and helps you avoid paying more than the property is worth. It can also be useful during negotiations. If the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, you may have an opportunity to renegotiate with the seller. While an appraisal isn't required for cash buyers, it can provide peace of mind and help you make a more informed decision before closing. It's a relatively small cost compared to the price of the home and can save you money in the long run.

Based on the public property data I found, I can give you a **rough Realtor-style valuation**, although an actual CMA would require seeing the condition, improvements, permits, and interior of both properties. For **3113 Malcolm Ave**, the public records show a 3-bedroom, 1-bath home with approximately **1,171 sq. ft. on an 8,117 sq. ft. lot**. The current Redfin estimate is about **$1.51 million**, with an estimated market range of roughly **$1.44M–$1.74M**. Redfin For 3123 Malcolm Ave., the property is substantially larger: approximately 2,226 sq. ft., 4–5 bedrooms, 2–3 baths, and an 8,409 sq. ft. lot. It sold in February 2025 for $2.5 million after being marketed as a remodeled property. Its current Redfin estimate is approximately $2.74 million, with an estimated range of $2.60M–$3.15M. Redfin My rough combined estimate If you're asking what the two properties together might be worth today, I'd put the preliminary range around: $4.1 million – $4.8 million combined! with roughly $4.25M–$4.5M as a reasonable starting point, assuming both properties are in average-to-good condition and there aren't significant unpermitted improvements or other issues. There is also an important consideration here: owning the two adjacent parcels together can potentially create additional value beyond simply adding the two individual home values, depending on zoning, development potential, lot configuration, and what a buyer could legally do with the combined property. Both properties are identified as LAR1 in the public records. Redfin+1 So I wouldn't necessarily market the two properties simply as "$1.5M + $2.7M." I'd want to analyze them as a potential assemblage as well as individually. If you're considering selling, refinancing, or buying the neighboring property, I'd want to look at recent closed sales within roughly a half-mile, the condition of both homes, lot dimensions, permits, and development potential before putting a more precise number on it.

Yes, you can absolutely sell a property with two homes on one lot and use the proceeds to purchase a new home. The process is similar to selling any other property, but there are a few additional factors to consider. The value of your property will depend on things like the condition of both homes, whether they're legally permitted, the size of the lot, local zoning, and current market demand. Properties with two homes can be especially attractive to buyers looking for rental income, multigenerational living, or future investment opportunities. Before listing, it's a good idea to have a local real estate professional evaluate your property and provide a comparative market analysis to determine an appropriate listing price. They can also help you market the unique features that make your property stand out. If your goal is to buy another home after selling, planning the timing of both transactions is important. Depending on your situation, you may be able to coordinate the sale and purchase so the proceeds from your current home can be used toward your next one. A local realtor can guide you through the process, explain your options, and help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Buying a mobile home can be a great way to become a homeowner at a more affordable price, but it's important to understand how the process differs from buying a traditional home. One of the biggest things to know is whether you're buying **just the home** or **the home and the land** it sits on. If the home is in a mobile home park, you'll typically own the home but lease the land, which means you'll pay a monthly space rent in addition to your other housing expenses. If you're purchasing the land as well, the property is generally treated more like a traditional home. Financing can also be a little different. Some manufactured homes qualify for conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA loans, while others—particularly older homes or those that aren't permanently attached to a foundation—may require specialized financing. Working with a lender who understands manufactured homes can help make the process much easier. When it comes to value, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. A well-maintained manufactured home in a desirable location, especially one that includes the land, can appreciate over time. On the other hand, homes located in leased-land communities may appreciate more slowly since the land isn't included in the purchase. Before making an offer, be sure to have the home thoroughly inspected, review any park rules and monthly fees, verify the home's title and permits, and understand exactly what your ownership includes. A mobile home can be a smart investment and an excellent option for many buyers. The key is doing your homework, understanding the unique aspects of the purchase, and working with an experienced real estate professional who can help you make an informed decision.

Cash home-buying companies can be a good option in the right situation, but they're not the best fit for every seller. I usually recommend them to homeowners who need to sell quickly due to a job relocation, inherited property, financial hardship, or a home that needs significant repairs and would be difficult to sell on the traditional market. The biggest advantage is convenience. These companies typically purchase homes as-is, which means you don't have to spend time or money on repairs, staging, or preparing the property for showings. They can also close much faster than a traditional sale, often in a matter of days or weeks, providing certainty and a simplified process. The tradeoff is that convenience usually comes at a cost. Cash-buying companies generally offer less than what you might receive by listing your home on the open market because they're factoring in repair costs, holding expenses, and the profit they'll need when they resell the property. Depending on your home's condition and your local market, that difference can be significant. Before accepting any cash offer, I always recommend comparing it with what your home could realistically sell for through a traditional listing. A trusted real estate professional can provide a comparative market analysis and help you weigh the value of a faster, more convenient sale against the potential for a higher net profit. That way, you can make an informed decision based on your timeline, financial goals, and the condition of your home.

Hello, Kristin, From a Realtor's perspective: absolutely not—it's never expected. The commission is how your agent gets paid, and a successful closing is already the outcome they worked toward. Most agents don't expect clients to buy them a gift in return for the thank-you gift they receive. That said, if your agent went above and beyond and you *want* to show your appreciation, the gestures that mean the most usually aren't expensive gifts. For example: * Leave a glowing Google, Zillow, or Facebook review. * Refer friends or family who are buying or selling. * Stay in touch and think of them for future real estate needs. * If you enjoy giving gifts, something small like a handwritten thank-you card, a coffee gift card, or a local treat is a thoughtful surprise—but it's completely optional. As an agent, I'd say a heartfelt review and a referral are far more valuable than a bottle of wine or a gift basket. They help grow our business and are often the greatest compliment a client can give. So if you're wondering about etiquette: **No, you don't need to buy your agent a thank-you gift.** If you genuinely want to, it's a kind gesture, but don't feel obligated. A sincere thank-you and a positive review are more than enough.

A **quick sale** in real estate simply means selling your home in a shorter-than-average timeframe. This can happen for several reasons, such as relocating for a new job, downsizing, avoiding carrying two mortgages, or needing to sell due to a life change. The key to a successful quick sale is preparation. Pricing your home correctly from day one, presenting it well, and having a strong marketing strategy can help attract serious buyers quickly. In some cases, sellers may choose to price a bit more competitively to generate multiple offers and speed up the process. Keep in mind that a quick sale doesn't have to mean accepting a low offer. With the right pricing and marketing, many homes sell quickly while still achieving an excellent price. If you're considering selling and want to know how to position your home for a fast, successful sale, I'd be happy to help you create a strategy that fits your goals.

A low appraisal doesn't necessarily mean the deal is over. If you believe the appraised value doesn't accurately reflect your home's market value, there are a few options to consider. First, ask your real estate agent to review the appraisal report for errors. Sometimes appraisers use outdated or less comparable sales, miss recent upgrades, or overlook important features that can affect value. If that's the case, your agent can work with the buyer's lender to submit a **Reconsideration of Value (ROV)** with stronger comparable sales and supporting documentation. You can also ask the buyer's lender whether a second appraisal is an option. While lenders aren't required to order a new appraisal, they may do so if there are legitimate concerns about the accuracy of the original report. If the appraisal remains $10,000 below the contract price, you still have choices. The buyer can pay the difference out of pocket, you and the buyer can negotiate a new purchase price, or you can meet somewhere in the middle. In some cases, if the financing falls through because of the appraisal, you may choose to put the home back on the market. A $10,000 appraisal gap isn't uncommon, especially in a market where prices are changing quickly. The most important step is reviewing the report carefully with your agent to determine whether it's truly supported by the market or if there's a valid reason to challenge it.

A REALTOR®'s fee in California is not fixed—it's fully negotiable between the seller and the brokerage. The total cost depends on the services you're receiving, the property, and the agreement you make with your agent. Since recent industry changes, sellers also decide whether and how much, if anything, they'll offer to help compensate a buyer's agent. When choosing a REALTOR®, I encourage clients to focus on value rather than just the fee. An experienced agent who prices your home correctly, markets it effectively, negotiates strongly, and guides you through the transaction can often help you net more from your sale than the difference in commission. If you're thinking about selling, I'd be happy to walk you through my marketing strategy, explain how commissions work in today's market, and provide a personalized estimate of your selling costs—so there are no surprises along the way.

Not at all. While today's market is different from the fast-paced seller's market we saw a few years ago, that doesn't mean it's a bad time to sell. It simply means strategy matters more. Higher mortgage rates have made buyers more selective, but serious buyers are still in the market. People are continuing to relocate, grow their families, downsize, or purchase homes because of life changes—and they're ready to act when the right home comes along. Many California homeowners also have substantial equity, and home values remain strong in many areas. The key to a successful sale is pricing your home correctly, preparing it to show its best, and marketing it effectively. Homes that are priced appropriately and presented well are still selling and attracting solid offers. The bottom line? It's not a bad time to sell in California. It's a market that rewards the right approach. If you're considering selling, the best place to start is by looking at what's happening in your local neighborhood, since every market is different and conditions can vary from one city to the next.

As a Realtor, I'd say the most realistic estimate of what your home will sell for comes from looking at today's market, not just an online estimate or what a neighbor's house sold for months ago. Your home's value is ultimately determined by what a qualified buyer is willing to pay under current market conditions. To arrive at an accurate estimate, I would compare your home to recently sold properties with similar size, condition, location, and features, while also considering the homes currently on the market and those that are under contract. Factors like recent upgrades, lot size, curb appeal, and the overall demand in your area all play a role in what buyers are willing to offer. One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is pricing their home based on the highest sale in the neighborhood. That property may have had premium upgrades, a larger lot, or sold during a different market. Pricing too high can actually cause a home to sit on the market longer, leading to fewer showings and, in many cases, a lower final sale price. The goal is to price your home strategically from the start. A well-priced home attracts more buyers, creates stronger competition, and often results in better offers. If you're serious about selling, the best way to get a realistic estimate is to have a local Realtor prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA). It's typically free, comes with no obligation, and provides a much more accurate picture of your home's market value than an automated online estimate.

Hi Renato, Getting an independent appraisal before listing your home can be a helpful way to understand its estimated market value. You can find a licensed residential appraiser by searching your state's appraisal licensing board, asking your lender for referrals, or requesting recommendations from a local real estate professional. That said, if your goal is to determine the best listing price, an appraisal is just one piece of the puzzle. As a realtor, I typically prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) at no cost. A CMA compares your home to recently sold properties, current listings, and local market trends to help establish a competitive asking price that reflects today's market conditions. Many sellers find that a CMA provides the practical pricing guidance they need before deciding whether a formal appraisal is necessary. Best of luck with your sale!

Yes, you can sell a commercial property as-is, but the key is pricing and positioning it correctly. An as-is sale means you’re selling the property in its current condition, with the buyer understanding that they are taking responsibility for repairs after closing. You’ll want to be upfront about the leaking roof and interior damage through proper disclosures, inspections, and documentation. The amount you “lose” depends on several factors — the building’s location, current market value, income potential, zoning, condition, estimated repair costs, and what buyers are willing to invest to bring it back to its potential. Sometimes making repairs before selling creates more value, but in other cases, selling as-is to the right investor or developer can be the smarter path, especially if the property has been sitting for years. A good first step would be a realistic market analysis that looks at the property’s value in its current condition versus the potential value after repairs. I’d also recommend getting a few repair estimates if possible, even if you don’t plan to complete the work, so buyers can better understand the scope. A property that has been on the market for nearly 10 years may need a fresh strategy, not just a price change. I’d be happy to help evaluate the options and determine the best path forward.