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Pacifica CA Real Esate

Have a Successful Open House!

Dec 20th, 2011
by Kathy Rain.
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                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           If you’ve been thinking of selling your home in any of the coastal towns of Moss Beach, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Pacifica or Montara, having an open house is a great way to get buyers in your house! 

  As San Mateo Coastal Real Estate agents; we understand the importance of hosting a great open house.  Buyers want to see the ins and outs of your home and there are six key ways to help your home have a successful open house!

1. Make it Generic- While it’s great to make your home personal, your pictures, children’s art or your to do list on the refrigerator can be a large distraction to potential buyers.  They need to be able to envision themselves in your home, so putting away those personal items will help buyers picture their life in your coastal home.

2. Clear Counters- Look at your kitchen or bathroom counters from a outsiders viewpoint.  Do you have too many appliances cluttering your kitchen counter?  Clearing this space will make their appear to be more room for cooking or their own storage.  If your bathroom counters are filled with perfumes, toothbrush holders, etc… take time to put them in cabinets or drawers so buyers can see the actual size of the space.

3. Set the Table- This may not seem necessary, but having your dining room table set with nice place settings add a touch of class and can help the San Mateo Coastal buyer envision hosting their own dinner parties.

4. First Impressions- Believe it or not, a nice doormat or attractive porch can really set the tone for the entire open house.  If there’s an old doormat , chipped paint or nothing special about the entrance to your home, buyers may feel that you don’t really care.  A welcoming setting from the start will instantly let buyers know that your home is well-maintained and that each area of your home is cared for.

5. Get to the Heart- The best way to appeal to the buyers’ heart is through offering something special when they walk in the door.  Whether you bake fresh cookies, have hot chocolate or coffee in the cooler months, or have lemonade for them on your counter as it starts to get warmer; these added touches will set your home apart.

6. Don’t Stick Around- While it may be tempting to want to hear what the potential buyers have to say, it can be awkward when the seller is present.  They will feel that they can’t openly express their thoughts to the agent and will not feel as comfortable when looking throughout the home.  Even if you take a walk through the neighborhood, being away from the home during an open house can make all the difference.

Hosting an open house can seem like a nerve-wracking process, but it’s the best way to get your home sold.  By taking note of these tips; you’ll be well on your way!  If you have questions about selling your San Mateo Coastal home; please let us know!  You’ll want someone who knows the area, has experience in selling homes on the coast and can be with you every step of the way.  Feel free to contact us with any questions you have or to learn how we can help sell your home!

Tips For Buying In Pacifica

Oct 11th, 2011
by Kathy Rain.
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If you are looking to buy a home in Pacifica, then you have found the perfect real estate team! 

 As San Mateo Coastal Realtors for many years, we’ve come to know each of these towns very well and feel that they each have unique characteristics that would draw home buyers to them.  

Love the outdoors?  Pacifica may be just the place for you!  There are many hiking trails that wind through forested canyons and along the coast where you can enjoy ocean views.  Pacifica has a rich history and well-loved community spirit that welcomes newcomers in with open arms.  So, how do you know if a Pacifica home is right for you?  Here are four great ways to determine your next move!

1.  Location, Location, Location- You’ve heard it many times, but the location of your home plays a large role in your quality of life.  Is the Pacifica home you’re hoping to buy close enough to your work place or, if not, are you willing to deal with the commute?  Another good factor to look at is the school system.  Even if you don’t have children, a good school system can come into play when reselling your home.  Luckily, Pacifica is home to many great schools!

2.  Home Features- Come up with a list of important features you are looking for in your Pacifica home.  Of course the number of bedrooms and bathrooms is almost always first on the list, but take into consideration storage space, room for pets, a growing family or need for guest space, and the amount of potential projects versus the home being in move-in condition.

3.  Ask Questions- It’s exciting to take tours through beautiful Pacifica homes, but make sure you are aware of the pros and cons.  Feel free to ask your Pacifica Realtor any questions openly.   A few good questions would be:  How much are property taxes?  Which appliances are included and how old are they?  Have there been any major repairs to the home and, if so, when were they completed?

4.  Scrutinize- Look at the home from an objective perspective.  It may be easy to get swept away by the stunning Pacifica views or a few key features, but don’t be afraid to do a thorough inspection of the home.  Look in closets and cabinets, take note of the window casings,  examine walls and ceilings to note any damage, etc…  You’ll feel better making an offer on a home that you feel meets your standards.

We hope these home buying tips are helpful to you.   We would love to help you in your home search as our goal is to make the home buying process as stress free as possible!  Contact us today to learn more about our team and our ability to help you find your dream home on the beautiful San Mateo Coast!

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Pacifica’s Escrow Process

Jul 26th, 2011
by Kathy Rain.
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When purchasing a Pacifica home, part of the process to complete the sale is when the potential homeowner will enter into escrow. Many first time homebuyers have many questions about the escrow process. Below are some clarification and information on this important process. 

What is an escrow?
An escrow is an arrangement in which a disinterested third party, called a escrow holder, holds legal documents and funds on behalf of a buyer and seller, and distributes them according to the buyer’s and seller’s instructions. The escrow becomes the depository for all monies, instructions and documents pertaining to the purchase of your home.

How does the escrow process work?

 The escrow is a depository for all monies, instructions and documents necessary for the purchase of the home, including  funds for the down payment, lender’s funds and documents for the new loan. The duties of an escrow holder include: following the instructions given by the principals and parties to the transaction in a timely manner; handling the funds and/or documents in accordance with instructions; paying all bills as authorized;  closing the escrow only when all terms and conditions have been met; and, distributing the funds in accordance with instructions.

Do I need documentation?
Receipt of your deposit is generally included in your copy of your purchase contract. Your funds will then be deposited in your separate escrow or trust account and processed through your local bank.

What information will I have to provide?
Typically you will be asked to complete a statement of identity as part of the necessary paperwork. Because many people have the same name, the statement of identity is to identify the specific person in the transaction through such information as date of birth, social security number, etc. This information is kept confidential.

How long is the escrow?
The length of an escrow is determined by the terms of the purchase agreement and can range from a few days to several months. Typically an escrow often takes an average time of 30 to 45 days.

When does the escrow process end?

The escrow process ends when you actually close on the home, during the closing procedure. This is when all funds are transferred accordingly, when all documents are signed, and when you get the keys to your new coastal home.

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