Renting vs. Owning: Which is Right for You?
Are you torn between renting and owning a home? It’s a big decision that impacts your lifestyle and finances in the long run. Both options have their pros and cons, but understanding the key differences can help you make a more informed choice.
Preparing to Take Out a Mortgage? Do This First
Purchasing a home is a significant life milestone, and for most people, it involves securing a mortgage to finance the purchase. Mortgages can be complex, but with careful preparation and planning, the process can be streamlined and less daunting. Here are essential steps to take when preparing to take out a mortgage.
Should I Use a Buyer’s Agent?
A buyer's agent is a licensed real estate professional who works exclusively for the buyer's best interests throughout the home buying process. While some individuals may be hesitant to engage a buyer's agent, citing concerns over additional costs or the belief that they can navigate the process on their own, there are numerous compelling reasons why utilizing the expertise of a buyer's agent is invaluable.
What Are Buyer Broker Agreements?
According to the recent NAR (National Association of Realtors) settlement, it may soon be required that buyers sign a Buyer Broker Agreement before they tour homes with a buyer’s agent. That being said, in some areas of the country, buyer’s agents have always had their buyers sign this agreement prior to touring homes. So, what is a Buyer Broker Agreement?
Nominated For a Petaluma People’s Choice Award 2024
Rachael Dressler has been nominated for a Petaluma People’s Choice Award for 2024!
What is a 1031 Exchange in Real Estate?
In the world of real estate investment, there are various strategies and tools that savvy investors utilize to maximize their returns and build wealth over time. One such tool that often stands out for its potential tax benefits and flexibility is the 1031 exchange. In this blog post, we'll delve into what a 1031 exchange is, how it works, and why it's such a valuable tool for investors.
Everything You Need to Know About VA Loans
When it comes to purchasing a home, navigating through the various financing options is a crucial step in the process. For veterans and active-duty service members, the VA loan program stands out as an attractive option. Created to honor their service, VA loans offer unique advantages, but as with any financial decision, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. In this post, I'll explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of buying a home with a VA loan.
How Real Estate Agents Get Paid
You may be wondering how exactly real estate agents get paid. In this blog post, I'll break down how real estate agents currently get paid in Northern California.
Don’t Make These Mistakes After Applying for a Mortgage
So, you just applied for a mortgage. Congratulations! You will want to be careful during the mortgage process so that you don’t put your loan in jeopardy. Don’t make the following mistakes.
Preparing to Take Out a Mortgage? Do This First
Purchasing a home is a significant life milestone, and for most people, it involves securing a mortgage to finance the purchase. Mortgages can be complex, but with careful preparation and planning, the process can be streamlined and less daunting. Here are essential steps to take when preparing to take out a mortgage.
7 Benefits of Home Ownership
Owning a home brings forth many advantages, both personal and financial.
5 Things to Know About Moving to Petaluma, California
Are you contemplating a move to Petaluma, California? This charming city, situated in Sonoma County, offers a fantastic lifestyle and a charming community that is close to the beach, wine country, and all that the Bay Area has to offer.
Understanding Escrow: A Guide for Bay Area Home Buyers and Sellers
Have you ever wondered exactly what happens when someone is “in escrow” when buying or selling a house? In this article, I will demystify the concept of escrow and explain its importance in the home buying and selling process. Understanding escrow will give you the confidence to navigate a real estate transaction smoothly and securely.
Strategies for a Seller's Market
A seller's market is a real estate market in which there are more buyers than sellers. This means that sellers have more power in negotiations and can often sell their homes for more than they would in a buyer's market. During a seller’s market, properties will often sell quickly, sell for over their asking price, and receive multiple offers.
Are Fiduciary Realtors Your Secret to Real Estate Success?
Buying or selling a property may be one of the most significant decisions you'll ever make in life. It's a journey filled with excitement, dreams, and, sometimes, a bit of anxiety. To ensure a seamless experience, you'll want a skilled professional who not only guides you through the process but also acts as a fiduciary—a trusted advocate with your best interests at heart. In this article, I'll explore what it means for real estate agents to be fiduciaries and how this dedication benefits their clients on their quest to find the perfect home.
Strategies for a Buyer’s Market
Have you heard people say that it’s a good time to buy because we are in a buyer’s market? But what does that mean exactly? A buyer's market is a real estate market in which there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. Houses tend to sit on the market longer, so sellers are more willing to negotiate on things like price or make other concessions.
10 things to do in Petaluma
There are many things to do in Petaluma, California, for visitors or people moving there. Here are a few ideas.
Homeowners Insurance in California
You may have heard on the news that State Farm and Allstate, two homeowner insurance providers, are no longer accepting new applications for homeowner insurance policies in California. This was due to the risk of wildfires faced by California homes as well as the increased costs to rebuild.
6 Ways to Hold Title in California
Holding title to property is legal ownership. It gives you the right to possess, use, enjoy, sell, or transfer it. In California, there are several ways to hold title to property. The most common ways are sole ownership, tenancy in common, joint tenancy, community property, community property with the right of survivorship, and a living trust.
What is a Living Trust?
Have you heard your friends talk about putting their homes and other assets into a living trust? But what is a living trust? A living trust is a form of estate planning that allows you to control your assets while you are alive and have them distributed according to your wishes after you die.There are several reasons why it is important to have a living trust.