Answers by Marine Janikyan

Yes you most definitely can. As long as it is written in the contract as an excluded item, you should be fine to take it with you.

Traditional real estate agents generally should not avoid showing your home simply because it is listed with a discount or flat-fee brokerage. If your property is listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), buyer's agents can see it just like any other listing, and they have a professional duty to present homes that meet their clients' needs. In practice, however, some agents may be less motivated to show a property if it offers lower buyer-agent compensation or if they believe the transaction may require more work because the seller is handling more of the process. Even so, many buyers search for homes online themselves and often ask their agents to schedule showings for properties they are interested in. To maximize exposure, it is important to have your home properly listed on the MLS, use high-quality photos, price it competitively, and make showings easy to schedule.

In many cases, buying a fixer-upper in a prime location can be a better long-term investment than purchasing a move-in-ready home in a less desirable area. Location is one of the few aspects of a property that cannot be changed, while features such as flooring, kitchens, and paint can be updated over time as your budget allows. Homes in sought-after neighborhoods often hold their value better and may appreciate more quickly because of factors such as good schools, convenient access to amenities, and shorter commutes. If the renovation is primarily cosmetic rather than structural, you may also have the opportunity to build equity by improving the home yourself instead of paying a premium for someone else's renovations. However, the decision depends on your financial situation, timeline, and tolerance for renovation. Cosmetic updates can be manageable, but projects often take longer and cost more than expected, especially if hidden issues are uncovered once work begins. Before purchasing, it is important to have a thorough home inspection and obtain realistic estimates for the renovations so you can determine whether the total cost still fits within your budget. If you are prepared for the inconvenience and have a financial cushion for unexpected expenses, choosing the fixer-upper in your preferred neighborhood may provide greater long-term satisfaction and value than settling for a finished home in a location you like less.

It is usually recommended to avoid opening new credit lines while under contract for a home because it can affect your mortgage approval. Applying for new credit may lower your credit score and increase your debt, which can change your debt-to-income ratio. Many lenders check your credit again before closing, and if they see new debt or a lower credit score, they may delay, change, or even deny your mortgage. Waiting until after you close helps keep your finances stable and reduces the risk of problems with your loan.

Yes. Even if a home is being sold "as-is," you can still negotiate for a lower price. "As-is" means the seller does not intend to make repairs, but it does not prevent you from asking for a price reduction, closing cost credits, or other concessions after an inspection reveals problems. The seller can accept, reject, or negotiate your request, so it is always worth discussing if significant issues are found.

One of the biggest mistakes sellers regret after listing is assuming that their job is finished once the listing goes live. Many sellers set their price too high, thinking they can always negotiate later, but an overpriced listing often receives less attention and can become stale, making it harder to attract serious buyers. Others regret using poor-quality photos, providing vague descriptions, or leaving out important details that buyers want to know. Slow responses to inquiries and ignoring early feedback from the market can also cause sellers to miss valuable opportunities. Successful sellers understand that listing is only the beginning. They monitor buyer interest, respond promptly, update their listing when needed, and adjust their pricing or presentation to stay competitive.

When buying a home in Redding, California, wildfire insurance should be a major consideration because it can significantly affect both the cost of homeownership and the availability of coverage. Due to the area's elevated wildfire risk, insurance premiums can vary widely depending on the property's location, surrounding vegetation, construction features, and access to emergency services. Some homes may qualify for standard homeowners insurance, while others may require coverage through California's FAIR Plan combined with supplemental insurance. Before making an offer, it's important to obtain insurance quotes for the specific property, ask the seller about their current coverage and premium, and evaluate wildfire mitigation features such as a fire-resistant roof, ember-resistant vents, and defensible space around the home. Factoring insurance costs into your budget early can help you avoid unexpected expenses and make a more informed purchasing decision.

Yes. In most cases, choosing a smaller home for a significantly shorter daily commute is worth it because location has a greater impact on your day-to-day quality of life than extra square footage. A shorter commute gives you more free time, reduces stress, lowers transportation costs, and makes it easier to spend time with family, exercise, or pursue hobbies. While a larger home can be nice, you typically adapt to the amount of space you have, whereas the time lost in a long commute is something you never get back. A well-located home also often provides better access to jobs, schools, amenities, and public transportation, which can add long-term value. If the smaller home still meets your essential needs, prioritizing location over size is often the better decision.

Yes, you may still qualify for a refinance after a recent 30-day late mortgage payment, but it will likely make the process more difficult. A single 30-day late payment can lower your credit score and may affect how lenders view your application. Some lenders require a clean payment history for the past 12 months, while others may be more flexible depending on factors such as your credit score, income, home equity, debt-to-income ratio, and the reason for the late payment. If the late payment was due to a temporary hardship and you've otherwise maintained a strong financial profile, you may still have refinancing options. It can also help to wait several months of on-time payments before applying, as this demonstrates improved payment behavior and may increase your chances of approval or help you qualify for better interest rates. Ultimately, eligibility varies by lender and loan program, so it's worth comparing offers and asking lenders about their specific underwriting requirements.

The best way to verify the location of a property line is to hire a surveyor. These are quite expensive but they do tag the location of the property lines and provide a report.

Yes. You can remove PMI without refinancing by building enough equity in your home. Usually: When you owe 80% or less of your home’s original value, you can ask your lender to remove PMI. At 78% loan-to-value, PMI is typically removed automatically (if you’re current on payments). You can get there faster by making extra payments toward your principal or if your home value increases (with lender approval). Just contact your mortgage company when you think you’ve reached the required equity and ask for PMI removal.

The main difference between being pre-qualified and having a formal pre-approval letter is the level of review and confidence a lender has in your ability to obtain a mortgage. Pre-qualification is usually a quick, informal estimate based on financial information that you provide, such as your income, debts, and assets, without extensive verification. It gives you a general idea of how much you may be able to borrow but does not guarantee that you will qualify for a loan. In contrast, a formal pre-approval letter is issued after the lender has reviewed and verified important financial documents, such as pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and your credit history. Because it involves a more thorough evaluation, a pre-approval letter carries greater credibility with sellers and real estate agents, demonstrating that you are a serious buyer with a stronger likelihood of securing financing.

If you believe your husband's appraisal undervalues the property, you are not required to accept it as the final value. Although the county tax assessment may be higher, tax assessments are not always an accurate reflection of a property's current market value because they are primarily used for taxation purposes. A good first step is to obtain your own independent appraisal from a licensed real estate appraiser who has no connection to either party. You should also review your husband's appraisal for any errors, such as incorrect property details, missing improvements, or the use of inappropriate comparable sales. If your appraisal differs significantly, both valuations can be presented during the divorce proceedings, and the court may consider the evidence in determining the property's fair market value. Consulting with your divorce attorney is also important, as they can help you challenge an inaccurate appraisal, negotiate a fair property value, or request that the court appoint a neutral appraiser if necessary.

After a home inspection, review the report and focus on major issues like safety hazards, structural problems, or expensive repairs. Then: - Ask the seller to make the repairs before closing. - Request a credit so you can pay for the repairs yourself after buying the home. - Negotiate a lower purchase price if repairs will be costly. - Be willing to compromise, since sellers may not agree to every request. Work with your real estate agent to decide which option is best and to help negotiate with the seller.

After a home inspection, you can negotiate repairs or request a credit by reviewing the inspection report and focusing on significant issues that affect the home's safety, structure, or major systems, such as the roof, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC. Your real estate agent can help you prepare a repair request or ask the seller to provide a closing cost credit instead of completing the repairs. Sellers may agree to make the repairs, offer a price reduction or credit, or decline the request depending on the market and the terms of the purchase agreement. Successful negotiations are usually based on reasonable requests supported by the inspection findings, and both parties work together to reach an agreement before the sale moves forward.

No, it is not common. Most private residential properties do not have public hiking trail easements running through the backyard. However, it can happen in some areas, especially near parks, forests, or protected open space. If you're buying a home, check the property records and title report to see if any public easements exist.

Choosing between a new construction home and an older home in an established neighborhood comes with both advantages and disadvantages. New construction homes typically offer modern layouts, energy-efficient features, updated appliances, and lower maintenance costs, giving buyers the convenience of moving into a home that requires little immediate repair. Many also include builder warranties and the opportunity to personalize finishes during construction. However, they are often more expensive, may have smaller lots, and are usually located in developing communities with fewer mature trees and established amenities. In contrast, older homes in established neighborhoods often feature larger lots, unique architectural character, mature landscaping, and convenient access to schools, parks, and local businesses. On the downside, they may require more maintenance, renovations, or costly repairs due to aging systems and materials. Ultimately, the best choice depends on a buyer’s budget, lifestyle, and preference for modern convenience versus neighborhood charm and character.

Whether you should ask for a price reduction or request that the seller make repairs depends on the type of issues found during the home inspection and your personal preferences. If the problems are relatively minor or you would rather choose your own contractor, asking for a price reduction or a closing cost credit is often the better option because it gives you more control over how and when the repairs are completed. On the other hand, if the inspection reveals major issues involving the home's structure, roof, plumbing, electrical system, or safety hazards, requesting that the seller complete the repairs before closing may be the wiser choice. In either case, negotiations should focus on significant defects rather than cosmetic issues, and your real estate agent can help you determine which approach is most likely to result in a fair agreement.

An HOA (Homeowners Association) can: - Enforce community rules. - Collect dues and fees. - Fine homeowners for rule violations (if allowed). - Maintain shared areas like parks or pools. - Approve or deny some home exterior changes. - Place a lien on a property for unpaid dues in many places. Their exact powers depend on the HOA's governing documents and local laws.

Donate, sell, recycle, or dispose of the items before you move. If they're still usable, charities, thrift stores, or online marketplaces are good options. If they're not, arrange for recycling or a bulk trash pickup. Leaving your junk behind without the new owner's or landlord's agreement could result in cleanup fees or other issues.

Interest rates can affect how easy it is to sell your home. When rates are low, more buyers can afford to buy, which can increase demand. When rates are high, fewer buyers may qualify for a mortgage, which can make selling take longer or affect your selling price.

It's not dumb to own a condo. Owning real estate, regardless of what type of property it is, is beneficial to you. You are no longer paying for someone else's mortgage, you have tax benefits and it's an asset that will appreciate overtime!

You definitely have the option to sell your property in it's present as-is condition. There is no obligation to do anything or agree to anything if you do not wish to.

One way to think about this decision is that you're not really choosing between two different houses. You’re choosing between two lifestyles for the next few years. I bought a major fixer upper and I’m not going to lie, it was so hard because of timing, finances, you know there’s a light at the end of the tunnel but it’s hard to see it at times. Fixer uppers are great if you enjoy renovation projects, have cash reserves beyond the down payment, can tolerate surprises and possible delays, customization is very important to you and if you’re ok to not live in the home for a certain period of time until renovations are complete. Move in ready is better if you value convenience, have limited free time, want stable monthly expenses and need to move in immediately.

In my opinion, I'd leave it up to your agent to answer all the questions open house visitors have. Some buyers might feel intimated at an open house when seller's are present and as sellers you might get approached by buyers trying to ask you questions about offers, price, etc. That may essentially make you feel uncomfortable too. Get the house ready for the open house and let your agent be the one to communicate directly with visitors!

Hi Martin. When homes in your neighborhood are selling quickly, it’s a strong sign your house will sell fast and for top dollar. With no active listings nearby, your property isn’t competing for buyers’ attention, and rapid contingencies on other homes create a sense of urgency that encourages buyers to act quickly. Other indicators that a quick sale is likely include multiple showings or offers within days of listing, short average days on market for comparable homes, rising or stable local sale-to-list price ratios (homes selling close to or above asking), low inventory and high buyer demand in the neighborhood or price range, strong interest from local agents and buyers (inquiries, scheduled tours, open house turnout). Don’t wait to sell when others in your community are also listing. Then you have competition.

I've had buyers in the past pass up on properties because there was wildlife present. Coyotes roaming around the streets. Not directly in their backyard, but on the streets in front of the party. It is so common here in LA and whether you buy a house on the mountaintop or somewhere flat, you will still see coyotes looking for food, especially during the evening hours.

Hi Jorge, here is a detailed explanation of what to expect when working with a listing agent to sell your home. Provide a comparative market analysis (CMA), recommend a competitive list price and pricing strategy, advise on repairs, decluttering, staging, prepare listing paperwork, seller’s property disclosure forms, and explain obligations. Coordinate high-quality photography, floor plans, virtual tours, and video if appropriate, enter accurate listing on the MLS, syndicate to major portals (Zillow, Realtor.com, etc.), run online ads, social media campaigns, email blasts to other agents, and broker outreach, Schedule, host or coordinate open houses and private showings and provide feedback summaries. Prepare flyers, signage, and neighborhood outreach. Track inquiries, qualify buyers/agents, and coordinate showings. gather and relay buyer feedback and market response to inform pricing/strategy adjustments if needed. Present all offers, explain terms, contingencies, and net proceeds, recommend negotiation strategy based on market conditions and your goals, prepare and negotiate counteroffers, coordinate acceptance, and document all changes, advise on best practices and help structure offer deadlines. Coordinate buyer inspections, review repair requests, and negotiate credits or repairs, assist in addressing appraisal gaps and lender concerns. Agent to provide consistent status reports (showings, feedback, offers, marketing performance), be reachable for questions and provide timely responses, disclose conflicts of interest and present all offers promptly.

Yes!!! Having the same paint color cohesive throughout the house will improve the spacious feel. Neutral colors helps the space look bigger and feel more uniform. Definitely consider it.

To find the best mortgage lender for your first home purchase: -Compare rates and fees from several lenders. -Read customer reviews to learn about other buyers' experiences. - Ask about first-time homebuyer programs and special loan options. - Get pre-approved by more than one lender to compare offers. - Choose a lender with good customer service and clear communication. Comparing multiple lenders helps you find the best loan and save money over time.

With a fixed rate mortgage, your payments are predictable, and you have protection if your interest rates rise in the future. Less financial uncertainty and often times preferable for homeowners who may stay in the property for many years. The disadvantage to this is that the rates are typically higher than ARM rates. An ARM starts with a fixed introductory rate and then adjusts periodically based on market rates. You potentially ave during your introductory period and it definitely makes sense if you plan on refinancing after that time period or selling. If the ARM rate is substantially lower and you’re certain you won’t keep the loan beyond the introductory period, ARM may provide a significant amount of savings. If you are not comfortable with the uncertainty of what the interest rates will look like after your introductory period, then a fixed rate might be the best option for you.

Avoiding capital gains tax entirely is not always possible or legal, but there are several legitimate ways to reduce or eliminate it, depending on your situation. If you're selling your primary residence in the United States, you may qualify for the home sale exclusion, which allows eligible homeowners to exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains from taxes if filing individually or $500,000 if married filing jointly, provided you meet the ownership and residency requirements. You can also reduce your taxable gain by increasing your property's cost basis with the cost of qualifying home improvements. For investments, strategies such as holding assets for more than one year to qualify for lower long-term capital gains tax rates, offsetting gains with investment losses, donating appreciated assets to qualified charities, or investing through tax-advantaged accounts may help reduce your tax liability. Because capital gains tax rules can be complex and vary based on your income, the type of asset, and state tax laws, it's a good idea to consult a tax professional before selling significant assets to determine the strategy that best fits your circumstances.

A homeowner’s insurance policy generally does not transfer automatically when buying or selling a home. When you sell a property, your insurance policy typically remains in place until the sale closes, after which you can cancel the policy and may receive a refund for any unused premium. When buying a home, the buyer usually needs to purchase their own homeowner’s insurance policy before closing, and the lender will often require proof of coverage before approving the mortgage. It is important for both buyers and sellers to coordinate with their insurance providers before closing to ensure there are no gaps in coverage.

If you are unhappy with your real estate agent’s performance, the first step is to have an open and direct conversation about your concerns. Explain the specific issues you have noticed, such as limited communication, low open house attendance, lack of marketing activity, or insufficient feedback from potential buyers. Ask your agent for a clear plan to improve results, including adjustments to pricing, marketing strategies, online exposure, follow-up with leads, and the frequency of updates you can expect. If the problems continue, review your listing agreement to understand your options, including whether you can request a change in service expectations or terminate the agreement. Before making a switch, consider whether the challenges are related to the agent’s performance or factors outside their control, such as market conditions, pricing, or buyer demand. If you decide to move on, interview other agents and choose someone with a strong marketing plan, local market experience, and a communication style that matches your needs. A successful agent relationship depends on trust, transparency, and consistent effort from both sides.

Yes, selling a home in a historic district may require additional disclosures, depending on local, state, and federal laws. Sellers are typically required to disclose known issues with the property, and homes located in historic districts may have additional requirements related to preservation rules, restrictions on renovations, or limitations on future changes to the property. Buyers may need to be informed if the home is subject to historic preservation guidelines, architectural review requirements, special permits, or restrictions that could affect remodeling, additions, or exterior modifications. In some areas, sellers may also need to disclose whether the property has received historic designation or benefits from historic tax credits. Because disclosure rules vary widely by location, sellers should work with a real estate professional or attorney familiar with local historic district regulations to ensure all required information is properly provided before closing.

Buying a home in the next year is a great goal, and there are several simple steps you can take to improve your chances of getting approved for a mortgage. Keep paying your bills on time and continue paying down your credit card debt to improve your credit score. Try to save as much as you can for a down payment and keep some extra money in savings for emergencies. It also helps to keep a steady job and avoid taking on new debt or making large purchases before applying for a mortgage. Finally, check your credit report for any mistakes and fix them if needed. These steps can make your mortgage application stronger and help you qualify for better loan terms.

Appliances may or may not come with the home, depending on what is included in the purchase agreement. Built-in appliances like ovens and dishwashers usually stay, but items like refrigerators, washers, and dryers may be negotiable. Always make sure the purchase agreement includes everything you want included in the sale.

To cancel a listing agreement early, first review your contract to see if it includes a cancellation clause or specific terms for ending the agreement. Then, talk with your agent or their broker about your concerns and request to terminate the listing in writing. Some brokerages may agree to release you, especially if you are unhappy with the service provided. If they refuse, you may need to wait until the agreement expires or seek legal advice about your options. Before switching agents, make sure you understand any potential fees, obligations, or restrictions, such as a protection period that could affect a future sale.

Selling your house after only three years is not necessarily a bad idea, but it depends on your financial situation and the costs involved. Because buying and selling a home comes with expenses like agent commissions, closing costs, and moving costs, you may not have built enough equity to fully offset those costs in a short period. However, selling can make sense if your needs have changed, you are relocating, your financial situation has shifted, or the home no longer fits your lifestyle. Before deciding, consider your current mortgage balance, potential selling price, market conditions, and any taxes or fees that may apply. A real estate professional can help you estimate your potential proceeds from the sale.

Hi Lona.. This is an interesting question and the answer all depends on your finances and urgency. For example, if you have the capability to pay for the HELOC payments and the new and existing mortgage before you sell, then this is the better option. If you sell before you buy again, you are in a contingent sale and often when there are multiple offers on properties, your chances of getting your offer accepted is lower. However, if this is your only option considering financial capability, then there are ways to structure an offer so that yours can be considered even with a contingent sale. Marine Janikyan 818-419-8228 [email protected]

No, it is usually not too late to switch mortgage lenders after receiving a pre-approval. A pre-approval is not a commitment to use that lender, and you can compare offers from other lenders to look for better interest rates, fees, or loan terms. However, switching later in the home-buying process may cause delays, especially if you are already under contract, so it is important to consider the timeline for the new lender’s approval, appraisal, and underwriting process. If you decide to switch, compare the full loan costs, not just the interest rate, and make sure the new lender can meet your closing deadline.

Yes, you may be able to get a mortgage with only 3% down if you have a strong income and meet the lender’s requirements. Some loan programs allow low down payments, especially for first-time buyers, including conventional loans with 3% down and certain government-backed programs. However, lenders will also look at your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, employment history, and ability to cover closing costs and other expenses. If your savings are limited, you may also qualify for down payment assistance programs or negotiate for seller credits to help with upfront costs. It is best to speak with a lender to review your specific financial situation and available options.

To make your home look brighter without a major renovation, focus on improving the light you already have. Start by opening all curtains and blinds during showings and replacing heavy window coverings with light, sheer options. Use mirrors across from windows to reflect natural light and make rooms feel larger. Adding brighter, warm-toned LED bulbs, using lamps in darker corners, and choosing lighter-colored rugs, furniture accents, and décor can also help. Trim back any outdoor plants or trees that may be blocking windows, and consider pressure washing windows and glass doors to maximize sunlight. Since the porch is limiting light, you might also improve the area by using lighter outdoor furniture or removing anything that creates extra shade near the windows. Small changes like these can make a noticeable difference without a large expense.

If the estate is settled and the house is sitting empty, it may make sense to sell sooner rather than continue paying ongoing costs like utilities, insurance, taxes, and maintenance. An empty home can also require extra upkeep and may be more vulnerable to damage or security issues. However, before listing, you and your siblings should consider factors like the home’s condition, the local real estate market, whether any repairs or cleaning would increase the sale price, and whether there are any tax considerations related to the inherited property. Getting a market evaluation from a real estate agent can help you understand the potential sale price and whether making improvements would be worthwhile. If all siblings agree that selling is the best option, listing sooner may help reduce carrying costs and simplify the process.

Yes. Repainting the exterior and improving landscaping often help a home sell faster because they boost curb appeal and create a stronger first impression for buyers. In general, exterior paint makes the home look well maintained and can increase buyer interest. Landscaping (mowed lawn, trimmed shrubs, healthy plants) makes the property more inviting and can encourage more showings. These improvements are typically most effective when they're clean, neutral, and cost-conscious rather than overly elaborate.

Generally, upgrading to hardwood is better if it fits the neighborhood and your budget, since many buyers prefer it and it can add more value. However, if your budget is limited, replacing old, worn carpet with new neutral-colored carpet is usually a better return than leaving damaged flooring in place.

It depends on the condition of your kitchen and how much the renovation will improve the home’s value. If the kitchen is outdated but still functional, a full renovation may not always provide enough return to justify the cost and delay. In many cases, smaller updates like painting cabinets, replacing hardware, updating lighting, or improving the countertops can make the space more appealing without waiting months for a major project to finish. However, if the kitchen has serious issues or is significantly below the standard of other homes in your area, completing the renovation before listing may help attract more buyers. Consider getting your agent’s opinion on how the unfinished or updated kitchen compares to similar homes nearby before deciding whether to wait or sell now.

You don't always need to pay off solar panels before selling your house. It depends on how the system was purchased. If you own the panels outright, they transfer with the home. If you have a solar loan, you may need to pay it off or transfer it to the buyer, depending on the loan terms. If the panels are leased or under a power purchase agreement, the buyer usually needs to agree to take over the contract, or you'll need to end the agreement before closing. So essentially it's up for negotiation and can be transferred without fully paying it off.

In most cases, yes. Fresh paint and professional staging are among the most cost-effective ways to maximize your home's value. A fresh, neutral paint color makes spaces feel clean, bright, and move-in ready, while staging helps buyers visualize themselves living in the home. Together, they create a stronger first impression, attract more interest, and can lead to faster sales, multiple offers, and a higher selling price. Even in a strong market, presentation can make a significant difference.

In real estate, a contingency is a condition that must be met for a real estate contract to become fully binding. If the contingency is not satisfied, the buyer or seller may have the right to cancel the contract without penalty. Think of it as a "if this happens, then we move forward" clause.

In many cases, no. While lower commissions sound appealing, sellers should understand why an agent is discounting their fee. Agents reduce their commission because they're competing aggressively for listings and want to secure the business. If an agent is earning significantly less on a transaction, they may not be willing or able to invest the same amount of time, effort, and marketing dollars into selling the home. Professional photography, staging consultations, digital advertising, open houses, agent networking, and consistent follow-up all cost time and money. That's not to say every discount agent provides poor service, but sellers should carefully compare what is actually included. The key question isn't just what the commission is, it's what level of service, marketing exposure, and expertise you're receiving in return. You get what you pay for. A lower fee may save money upfront, but if it results in less marketing, weaker negotiation, or a lower sale price, the savings can quickly disappear.