Answers by Ripsime Ter-Galstyan

Not always if you don't have children, paying extra for a top-rated school district may not be worth it. However, homes in great school districts often: Hold their value better. Attract more buyers when it's time to sell. Sell faster than similar homes in lower-rated districts. If the price difference is significant, compare nearby neighborhoods. You may find a similar home for less while still getting strong long-term value. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

The waiting period after a bankruptcy discharge depends on the loan type and bankruptcy chapter. In general, most borrowers can qualify for an FHA or VA loan after 2 years, a USDA loan after 3 years, and a conventional loan after 4 years following a Chapter 7 discharge. Some Chapter 13 borrowers may qualify sooner if they have made consistent payments under their repayment plan. These are general guidelines, and some lenders may impose stricter requirements known as "overlays." Factors such as rebuilding your credit, maintaining stable employment, keeping debt levels low, and saving for a down payment can improve your chances of approval once the waiting period ends. If you're considering buying a home after bankruptcy, speaking with a lender early can help you understand your timeline and what steps you can take now to prepare for homeownership. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Yes, landslides are something buyers should take seriously in Rancho Palos Verdes, but the level of concern depends heavily on the specific neighborhood and even the individual lot. you're considering a home in Rancho Palos Verdes. The good news is that most of Rancho Palos Verdes is not experiencing active land movement. Areas such as much of the east side of the peninsula and neighborhoods farther from the Portuguese Bend area generally have a much lower landslide risk than the affected zones. Definitely ask around the neighborhood and just do your own market data research. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

To simply answer your question, yes buying a home near a golf course can be a good investment, but it comes with trade-offs that buyers should consider carefully. For many buyers, homes with views of the course but located away from tees and high-traffic fairways offer the best balance of value and lifestyle benefits. A golf course location can add value, but the investment quality depends less on the course itself and more on the strength of the surrounding neighborhood, school district, and local housing market. Good luck! Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Hello Lucy just because a home is at the bottom of a hill doesn't mean you should avoid it, but it's important to check for potential water and drainage issues. Before buying, look for; signs of poor drainage or standing water, flood zone status, retaining walls in good condition, and any history of flooding or mudslides A good home inspection can help identify potential problems. If the property has proper drainage and was built well, buying at the bottom of a hill can still be a great option. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

In most cases, prioritize the neighborhood. You can renovate a home, but you can't change its location. A great neighborhood often offers stronger long-term value, appreciation potential, and lifestyle benefits. However, if major repairs would stretch your budget or timeline, a move-in ready home may be the better fit. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

If you're buying in Redding, wildfire insurance should be a major consideration, but not necessarily a reason to avoid the area altogether. Think of wildfire insurance in Redding as something that should be evaluated before making an offer, not after you're under contract. Some neighborhoods in and around Redding are considered higher wildfire risk due to nearby vegetation, hillsides, and proximity to open space. Insurance premiums can vary dramatically from one property to another even homes only a few miles apart can have very different quotes. I have a blog post on this go check it out: https://ripsime.jhagents.com/blog/2026/06/16/navigating-homeowners-insurance-in-californias-fire-prone-areas Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate and is the first step in the mortgage process. It is based largely on information you provide to the lender about your income, debts, assets, and credit score. Usually, extensive documentation is not being reviewed. With a pre-qualification you can get an estimate of how much you may be able to borrow and an idea of your monthly payments. A pre-approval is a more detailed review which involved a lender looking more thoroughly over your finances. When you start to work with the lender for a pre-approval you will need to provide pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements, employment verification, and credit check. Once you have your pre-approval letter you have a more accurate borrowing amount and it makes your more competitive once you do find your home and put in an offer. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Hi Jen, the pros of choosing a new construction usually are you get a move in ready home, everything is brand new, so you can often avoid major repairs for several years. Like you mentioned energy efficient, new homes typically feature better insulation, energy-efficient windows, smart thermostats, and newer HVAC systems, which may help reduce utility bills. There are modern floor plans options with provide the open-concept living spaces, larger kitchens, walk-in closets, and home offices which are a few common features. Many builders include warranties covering structural components and certain systems for a specified period. You can also always customize depending on the construction stage, you may be able to choose flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and finishes. Lastly it is lower maintenance because you do have new roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances which generally will require less upkeep initially. The Cons could be higher purchase price compared to similar-sized older homes. Smaller lot sizes are common in many new developments. HOA fees are more common in new communities. New neighborhoods may still be under construction, creating noise and traffic. Also keep in mind if you do have children, schools, shopping, parks, and restaurants may be farther away if the community is newly developed. To answer your question about HOA restrictions in new builds, many new construction communities are governed by a homeowner’s association (HOA), which helps maintain the neighborhood but also comes with rules and fees. I would definitely think about the following questions if you do buy in a HOA governed community: What are the monthly HOA dues, and what do they cover? Landscaping, pools, parks, security, exterior maintenance, etc. Are there any special assessments planned? These are one-time fees homeowners may be required to pay for major repairs or improvements. Are there restrictions on exterior changes? This may include paint colors, fencing, landscaping, solar panels, sheds, or holiday decorations. Are there parking rules? Find out if street parking, RVs, boats, or commercial vehicles are restricted. Are pets subject to breed, size, or quantity limits? What amenities are included? Compare the HOA cost with the value of the community features you'll use. Hope this helps answer your questions! Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Hello Jackson, While every lender has its own requirements, here are some general guidelines: 620+ Often the minimum credit score for many conventional loans. 580+ You may qualify for an FHA loan with a lower down payment. 500–579 Some FHA loans may still be available, but you'll typically need a larger down payment. Keep in mind that your credit score is only one part of the entire process. Lenders also look at your income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, savings, and the amount of your down payment. If your credit score isn't where you'd like it to be, don't be discouraged! There are often simple steps you can take to improve it: Pay all of your bills on time, payment history is one of the biggest factors in your credit score, so setting up automatic payments or reminders can help. Keep your credit card balances low, aim to use less than 30% of your available credit, and under 10% is even better if possible. Avoid opening several new credit accounts, every new application can temporarily lower your score, so only apply for credit when you truly need it. Don't close old credit cards, keeping older accounts open can help your credit history and maintain your available credit. Check your credit report for errors, review your report for mistakes, such as incorrect late payments or accounts that aren't yours, and dispute any inaccuracies. Pay down existing debt, reducing credit card balances and other debts can improve both your credit score and your mortgage qualification. If you're hoping to buy a home within the next 6–12 months, talk to a mortgage lender before making major financial changes. They can tell you exactly what improvements will have the biggest impact on your ability to qualify. Hope this was helpful! Ripsime Ter-Galstyan, Real Estate Agent at JohnHart Real Estate

The best mortgage lender isn't always the one with the lowest rate. As a first-time buyer, compare at least 3 lenders and look at interest rates, fees, loan options, down payment requirements, and customer service. Ask each lender for a Loan Estimate so you can compare offers side by side. A lender who communicates clearly and helps you understand the process can make your home buying experience much smoother.

It depends on your budget, but interior updates usually provide the biggest return. Fresh paint, updated lighting, minor repairs, and a deep cleaning can make a strong first impression. However, don't ignore the exterior. Simple improvements like landscaping, a clean entryway, and a freshly painted front door can boost curb appeal and attract more buyers. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

The best ways to improve your chances of getting approved for a mortgage are: Pay your bills on time to build a strong credit score. Pay down debt to improve your debt-to-income ratio. Save for a down payment and closing costs. Keep a steady job with consistent income. Avoid taking on new debt before applying. Get pre-approved so you know what you can afford and can address any issues early. A little preparation before applying can make it easier to qualify and may even help you get a better interest rate. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

You should speak with a probate or estate planning attorneyor a real estate attorney who handles inheritance and title issues. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Usually, no if your pool is clean, safe, and in good condition, it's often better to leave it. Many buyers see a pool as a bonus. You might consider removing it if it's in very poor condition, needs expensive repairs, or takes up most of the yard. Before spending the money, compare recent sales of similar homes with and without pools to see what buyers in your neighborhood prefer. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Yes, a mortgage pre-approval doesn't lock you into using that lender. You can switch lenders at any time before closing if you find a better interest rate, lower fees, or better service. Just be sure to compare loan estimates carefully and avoid waiting until the last minute, as changing lenders could delay your closing. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Just make sure the photos represent the listing appropriately and long as the edits are truthful and don't misrepresent the property. However, you should not use AI to add or remove permanent features, hide damage, or make the home appear different than it actually is. Misleading images could create legal or ethical issues. When in doubt, keep your photos accurate and representative of the property's current condition. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

One of the best ways to spot an up-and-coming neighborhood is to look for signs of investment and growth. New restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and local businesses often signal increasing demand. Renovation activity, new construction, and improving schools can also be positive indicators. On the other hand, frequent business closures, rising vacancies, neglected properties, and longer home selling times may suggest a neighborhood is declining. It's also helpful to review home price trends and planned developments. Paying attention to these factors can give you valuable insight into where a neighborhood may be headed. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Buying a home with a friend can work well, but it's important to plan for what happens if your circumstances change later. The biggest mistake co-buyers make is deciding how to buy the home without deciding how to unwind the arrangement if needed. 1. One person wants to keep the house One owner can buy out the other's share of the equity. This usually requires: • Agreeing on the home's current market value (often through an appraisal). • Calculating each person's share of the equity. • The remaining owner refinancing the mortgage into their name alone if both owners were originally on the loan. 2. You both decide to sell You can sell the property and split the proceeds according to your ownership agreement after paying off: • The remaining mortgage balance • Selling costs and commissions • Any agreed-upon reimbursements for unequal contributions 3. One person wants out but the other can't buy them out If neither a buyout nor an agreement to keep the home is possible, selling the property is often the practical solution. 4. Disagreements over major decisions Questions such as: • Who pays for repairs? • What if one person loses their job? • Can one owner move in a partner or rent out a room? • What if one owner wants to sell and the other doesn't? These issues are much easier to resolve if they're addressed upfront. Create a co-ownership agreement Before closing, many co-buyers work with an attorney to draft a written agreement covering: • Ownership percentages • Down payment contributions • Monthly payment responsibilities • Maintenance and repair costs • How a buyout price is determined • The process if one owner wants to sell • What happens if one owner misses payments Understand the type of ownership In California, friends commonly purchase as: • Tenants in Common (TIC): Each owner can own different percentages (for example 50/50 or 60/40), and their share can be sold or passed to heirs. • Joint Tenancy: Ownership is typically equal, and if one owner dies, their share automatically transfers to the surviving owner. For unrelated buyers, tenants in common is often more flexible because ownership shares can reflect each person's financial contribution. A good way to think about buying with a friend is to approach it similarly to a business partnership: discuss the exit strategy before you need it. Having those conversations early can protect both your friendship and your investment. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

A home warranty can be worth it, especially if you're buying an older home. It may help cover repairs for major systems and appliances that break from normal use. However, not everything is covered, and you'll usually pay a service fee for each repair. Always read the warranty to understand what's included. If the seller offers to pay for the first year, it's usually a nice bonus. If you're buying it yourself, compare the cost to the potential savings before deciding. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Not necessarily, it depends on your goals. Single-family homes often appreciate faster over the long term because they include land, which tends to increase in value. They also give you more privacy, flexibility, and control over the property. Condos can still be a smart investment if they are in a desirable location. They usually have a lower purchase price, require less maintenance, and may offer amenities that appeal to buyers and renters. However, be sure to consider HOA fees, HOA financial health, and any rental restrictions, as these can affect your costs and future resale value. If your goal is long-term appreciation, a single-family home often has the advantage. If affordability, convenience, or living in a prime location is more important, a condo can be an excellent choice. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Hello Larry, zestimates can be a helpful starting point, but they shouldn't be the main factor when deciding what to offer on a home. They use public data and algorithms, but they can't account for a home's condition, upgrades, or current buyer demand. A better approach is to review recent comparable sales with your real estate agent and consider the home's location, condition, and local market trends. This will give you a much more accurate idea of a fair offer. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

You can buy a home on your own, but having a real estate agent can save you time, money, and stress. A good agent helps you find the right home, analyze pricing, negotiate the best terms, coordinate inspections, manage paperwork, and keep the transaction on track. They can also spot potential issues that buyers may overlook. In many home purchases, the seller covers the buyer's agent compensation, though this can vary and is negotiated as part of the transaction. If you're experienced and comfortable handling negotiations and contracts, buying on your own may be an option. But for most buyers, an experienced agent provides valuable guidance and helps protect their interests throughout the process. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Not always. The first offer could be the best one, but don't focus on price alone Also ook at, the offer price, the buyer's financing, any contingencies and the closing timeline. In a strong market, you may get more offers. In a slower market, a solid first offer may be your best option. Review all the terms with your real estate agent before deciding. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Not with certainty, but there are signs that a homeowner may be preparing to sell. Look for expired listings, pre-foreclosure notices, estate sales, vacant homes, major renovations, or owners who have lived in the home for many years. Networking with neighbors and working with a local real estate agent can also help you hear about homes before they officially hit the market. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Hi Sara, When we were buying our first home we paid attention to foundation how we did this is walk around the house and check if the floor looks slanted, paid attention to creaking sounds, made sure there was no soft spots/dips. We paid attention to the plumbing, turned on all the faucets made sure there was no leaks under the sink and that water pressure was strong. We checked the windows to make sure they are dual-pane. We also paid attention to the natural sunlight coming into the house since we were very big on having natural light throughout the day. Hopefully this helps! Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450

Generally, no a minor (someone under 18) cannot legally buy a house in California because purchasing a home requires signing a real estate purchase contract and usually mortgage documents, and California law prohibits minors from entering into contracts related to real property. There are a few exceptions and special situations: • Emancipated minors may be able to purchase property because they have many of the legal rights of an adult, including the ability to enter contracts. • A minor can own real estate if they inherit it or receive it as a gift, but an adult guardian, trustee, or custodian generally manages the property until the minor reaches’ adulthood. • In practice, lenders will not issue a traditional mortgage to an unemancipated minor because the loan agreement would not be enforceable in the same way as an adult contract. For most home purchases in California, the buyer needs to be 18 years old or older to sign the purchase agreement, loan documents, and closing paperwork. Ripsime Ter-Galstyan DRE 02374450