Tips for a More Energy-Efficient Home

Upgrade Your Insulation Using blown-in foam insulation in your attic and walls can help seal in the heat when it gets colder without the risk of altering your home’s structural stability. Depending on the age of your home, it may just have the minimum required insulation in place, which won’t be enough to help you save energy. Replace Lighting Instead …

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Making an Offer on a Short Sale

Should You Make an Offer for a Home with a Short Sale? If you’re searching for a home in Encinitas, you might have heard about “short sales” as another way of purchasing a house. In case you’re unfamiliar with the concept, a short sale occurs when a homeowner sells their property for a price less than what they owe on …

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Your Rights as a Tenant in California

As a tenant, it can be tricky to navigate the legal language in your lease, especially if there’s a disagreement between you and your landlord. Here are some of the most common questions renters have, along with answers that are specific to California law. Can my landlord raise the rent? Currently, there are no maximum limits for rent increases in …

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Quick Tips for First-Time Home Sellers

Curb Appeal Those who search for real estate listings online can often be converted to potential buyers by strong visuals. Now is the time to have professional, well-lit, and appealing photos taken of the interior and exterior of your home, and attach them to your listing. Your goal is to portray your home at its very best! The Right Price …

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Navigate Online Listings Like a Pro

The majority of today’s buyers begin their real estate search online. If you’re new to the home-buying process, it’s important to have an understanding that sellers will generally present their homes in the best possible light. They want buyers to feel like they are getting value for their money. In order to make sure you actually are, check out the …

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Seller’s Guide to Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget

Finding the right contractor It’s important to choose a general contractor who comes highly recommended, is professional, and above all is someone you can trust. The best way to handle payment is to pay no more than 30 percent up front, in order to cover startup materials—you and your contractor can work out a schedule of payments based on the …

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New vs. Used Homes: Which is Best for You?

  We all know that in most cases, brand new homes are more expensive than existing homes. However, existing homes can carry extensive future maintenance costs that may equal or even outweigh that purchasing price of a new home. Here are the most crucial factors to consider when trying to decide what type of home is right for you. New …

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Rental Buying for Beginners

To buy, or not to buy? Purchasing a rental property can be very lucrative if you choose wisely. Here are the most crucial factors that will influence your decision. Property Type For first-time investors, single-family homes or condominiums are generally the safest bet. Single-family homes attract couples and families, who are more likely to become long-term renters and thus ensure …

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Selling Your Home in the Winter

Turn on the Heat Make sure the temperature is comfortable and warm, especially on a cold day—potential buyers may stay longer. If you have a fireplace, a chilly afternoon is the perfect time to use it. Consider Lighting Make sure all visible computers and televisions are turned off or dimmed. The key is to use a combination of natural and …

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The Home Buying Process: When You Have Kids

Commute You may want to make sure that you’re reasonably close to your workplace and school, especially if you have children who are still young enough to need an assisted daily routine. Getting your kids up and ready for school can be a hassle—there’s no need to add to the stress by having an extra-long commute to your work or …

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