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https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ A pre-listing inspection  helps sellers prevent surprises that could derail their sale, giving buyers confidence and reducing the risk of deal cancellations before closing. A Smooth Sale Starts Before You List Selling your home isn’t just about finding a buyer, it’s about making sure the deal actually closes. Across California, homeowners are learning that one simple step before hitting the market can make all the difference: scheduling a pre-listing inspection . When your house goes under contract, a lot has to go right before closing day. And while most sales make it to the finish line, some hit unexpected roadblocks—often during the inspection stage. The good news? Those bumps are preventable with a little foresight and help from a knowledgeable agent. Why Some Home Sales Fall Through According to Redfin , roughly 15% of pending home sales  in the U.S. fall through before closing—up from the pre-pandemic average of 12%. That means about one in seven sellers experience a deal collapse. What’s behind this? Buyer budgets are stretched.  High mortgage rates and rising home prices mean buyers have less room for unexpected repair costs. Move-in ready homes win.  Today’s buyers prefer properties that don’t need immediate work. More competition for sellers.  With slightly more inventory on the market, buyers can easily walk away if they sense a hassle. The takeaway? Many canceled deals trace back to inspection surprises, issues discovered late in the process that shake buyer confidence. The Smart Seller’s Solution: A Pre-Listing Inspection A pre-listing inspection  is exactly what it sounds like: a professional inspection you order before putting your house on the market. While not required, it gives you a major advantage. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) , pre-listing inspections allow sellers to address potential issues upfront, reducing the risk of last-minute negotiations or deal cancellations. Think of it as your “pre-game strategy” for a smooth sale. Benefits include: Identifying and fixing major issues before buyers see them. Helping your agent price your home confidently. Creating trust and transparency with buyers. Reducing post-offer renegotiations. What a Pre-Listing Inspection Covers Most inspections include: Roofing and structural components Electrical and plumbing systems HVAC functionality Foundation and drainage Safety and code issues A certified inspector provides a detailed report, essentially your “to-do list” for maximizing appeal and minimizing surprises. Is It Worth the Cost? The average pre-listing inspection in California  costs between $300–$600 , depending on the home’s size and location. Considering the average sale price in California exceeds $800,000, that’s a small investment for peace of mind. In competitive markets like Los Angeles, San Diego, or the Bay Area, a pre-listing inspection can even help your property stand out among move-in-ready homes. Your agent can help you: Decide which issues to fix versus disclose Connect with reliable repair pros Understand state disclosure laws Strategically use your inspection report as a selling tool California Market Insight While national trends show about 15% of deals fall through, California’s tighter inventory means well-prepared homes tend to close faster. According to CAR (California Association of Realtors) , listings with fewer inspection-related delays see up to 20% shorter time on market  than those without. That means taking proactive steps, like a pre-listing inspection, can directly impact your timeline and final sale price. FAQs About Pre-Listing Inspections Q: Is a pre-listing inspection required in California? No, but it’s increasingly recommended, especially in competitive or higher-end markets. Q: Can I skip fixing issues after my pre-listing inspection? Yes, but you’ll need to disclose known defects. Your agent can guide you on what’s legally required under California’s disclosure laws. Q: Does a pre-listing inspection guarantee my home will sell? No, but it dramatically reduces the chance of deal-killing surprises and builds buyer trust—two key factors that help ensure a successful closing. Bottom Line If you want your home sale to cross the finish line without a hitch, start with a pre-listing inspection . It’s an affordable, proactive step that gives you control, confidence, and a smoother path to closing. Before you list, talk to your local real estate agent about whether this strategy makes sense for your property and market conditions. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ When was the last time you checked your home value  with a professional? Most homeowners don’t realize how much equity  they’ve built over the years, and it could be more than you think. If you’ve owned your property for a while, it’s likely been gaining value steadily in the background. Even with recent market changes, your home equity  may have grown significantly, especially in a high-demand area like the San Gabriel Valley real estate market . What Is Home Equity? Home equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and the balance left on your mortgage. For example, if your home is worth $500,000  and you still owe $200,000 , you have $300,000 in equity . According to CoreLogic , the average U.S. homeowner with a mortgage has roughly $302,000 in home equity , a sign of how much wealth homeownership can build over time. Why You Might Have More Equity Than You Realize Home Prices Have Increased Substantially Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA)  shows that home prices have risen about 54% nationwide in the past five years . Even if prices have stabilized recently, long-term homeowners have likely gained a significant amount of equity. People Are Staying in Their Homes Longer The National Association of Realtors (NAR)  reports that the average homeowner stays in their home for around 10 years  — much longer than in the past. During that time, steady payments and appreciation can lead to hundreds of thousands of dollars in wealth.In fact, NAR estimates the typical homeowner has gained $201,600 in wealth  from price appreciation alone over the last decade. How to Use Your Home Equity Your home equity can open new financial opportunities. Depending on your goals, you might: Use your equity to buy your next home.  It can fund a down payment or even help you buy your next home with cash. Upgrade your current home.  Strategic renovations can make your home better suited to your lifestyle and increase its future value. Invest in new ventures.  Tap into your equity to fund a business, pay off high-interest debt, or improve your financial flexibility. By understanding your San Gabriel Valley real estate market home value , you can make confident, informed decisions about what comes next. Bottom Line Your home’s value  and equity  could be much higher than you think — and that’s valuable knowledge to have. If you’d like to find out how much your home is worth in today’s San Gabriel Valley real estate market , contact a local expert for a free professional home equity assessment . Knowing your true home value is the first step toward making smarter financial decisions and planning your next move with confidence. Get a professional home equity assessment  to learn your property’s true worth and discover the opportunities your home has been quietly creating for you. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

San Gabriel Valley real estate agent advising homeowners on selling strategy If you’re planning to sell your home in San Gabriel Valley  next year, what you do now  could be the difference between a smooth, profitable sale and a stressful rush later. Spring is traditionally the busiest season for real estate in Southern California, and the sellers who start preparing early always have the advantage. As Realtor.com  says: “If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, now is the time to start preparing, especially if you want to maximize the spring market’s higher buyer activity.” By tackling small repairs, decluttering, and strategic updates this fall and winter, you’ll hit the spring market ready, with a home that looks its absolute best to San Gabriel Valley buyers. Why Early Preparation Matters in the San Gabriel Valley Market In today’s market, you can’t afford to skip repairs or updates. Inventory across the San Gabriel Valley real estate market  — from Pasadena and Arcadia to Glendora and West Covina — has grown, giving buyers more homes to choose from. That means your home needs to stand out from the rest. The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your home shine. Even small, thoughtful updates can make a huge difference in attracting serious buyers. Starting now gives you: More time, less stress:  Spread out your projects without feeling rushed. Better contractors at better prices:  Avoid paying premiums for last-minute work. A polished, market-ready home:  Your home will be move-in ready when buyer demand peaks. Some of the best pre-sale updates for San Gabriel Valley homes  include: Fresh exterior paint or a new front door color to boost curb appeal Repairing roof leaks or updating outdated lighting fixtures Landscaping touch-ups before spring bloom Replacing worn carpet or refinishing hardwood floors Get Local Expertise from a San Gabriel Valley Real Estate Agent One of the smartest moves you can make right now? Partnering with a local San Gabriel Valley listing agent  early in the process. A skilled agent knows what today’s buyers in your neighborhood are looking for, and which updates are worth your time and money. According to Realtor.com : “Both buyers and sellers enjoy a smoother, more successful experience when they start early. For sellers, bringing a real estate agent into the process sooner can pay off significantly.” Your local agent can help you: Identify updates that add real value in your ZIP code Prioritize improvements to match your budget Connect with trusted local contractors and vendors Develop a timeline for listing your home in peak season Every city in the San Gabriel Valley  — from Monrovia to La Verne — has unique buyer trends and pricing patterns. A local expert can help tailor your strategy for the specific competition in your area. The Bottom Line If you’re planning to sell your San Gabriel Valley home in 2026 , don’t wait until January to start prepping. Take advantage of the slower months now — fix, refresh, and plan ahead. You’ll thank yourself when spring rolls around and your home hits the market ready to impress. Want to know which updates are giving San Gabriel Valley sellers the best return right now? Let’s connect  and build a personalized game plan that gets your home market-ready and maximizes your profit next spring. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ Have you noticed your dream home feels just out of reach lately? You’re not the only one. Across the San Gabriel Valley real estate market , many buyers are feeling the growing gap between the “dream home” they’ve envisioned and the “doable home” that fits their budget today. But here’s the good news: that gap isn’t a dead end. It’s simply a new chapter in how people are approaching homeownership, one that rewards flexibility, creativity, and strategy. Why the “Dream Home” Feels Farther Away Over the past few years, home values in the San Gabriel Valley  have continued to rise while mortgage rates have fluctua ted, changing what monthly payments look like for many buyers. A home that seemed affordable a year or two ago may now feel slightly out of reach, not because of lack of effort, but because the market itself has shifted. At the same time, limited housing inventory has made competition fierce. Buyers are often seeing fewer listings and higher prices, especially in popular areas like Pasadena, Arcadia, and Monrovia. But despite these challenges, people are still buying, and they’re doing it differently. The Mindset Shift: Redefining “Dream Home” For many locals, the idea of the “dream home” is evolving. It’s no longer about having everything on your wishlist the moment you move in. Instead, it’s about buying strategically today  and building toward that dream over time . The most successful buyers are focusing less on perfection and more on potential. They’re asking smarter questions: Can I update this kitchen later? Is this neighborhood growing in value? Can I refinance when rates drop? That shift in perspective is helping buyers move forward with confidence, and often putting them ahead of those waiting on the sidelines. How Locals Are Closing the Gap Here’s how San Gabriel Valley buyers are bridging the gap between dream and doable: Expanding the search area:  Some are exploring lesser-known or emerging neighborhoods, where they can get more space and value without leaving the Valley lifestyle behind. Choosing homes with good bones:  Instead of chasing perfection, buyers are choosing properties with solid structure and potential, then customizing over time. Leveraging creative financing:  From rate buydowns to seller credits, locals are finding smart ways to make monthly payments more manageable. Thinking long-term:  Many are seeing their first purchase as a stepping stone, building equity now that will fund their dream home later. These approaches aren’t about settling. They’re about buying smarter in a market where timing and strategy matter more than ever. The Real Win: Progress Over Perfection In today’s market, waiting for the perfect home or the perfect moment can actually cost more in the long run. Prices rarely fall as quickly as interest rates change, and competition often returns before most buyers expect it. That’s why the real winners in the San Gabriel Valley real estate market  are the ones taking action, the buyers who see possibility where others see pause. If you’ve been watching from the sidelines, wondering whether it’s still possible to own in this market, the answer is yes. It just takes the right plan, the right mindset, and the right guide. Ready to find your version of the dream home? Let’s talk about your goals and strategy in today’s market. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ The housing market in 2025 is showing clear signs of change. After years of rapid growth and rising borrowing costs, trends are shifting to create a different landscape for both buyers and sellers. Home price gains are slowing, mortgage rates are retreating from their highs, and inventory is gradually building, giving buyers more room to breathe. Home Prices Are Cooling National home price appreciation has slowed sharply compared to the pandemic boom. The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index reported just a 1.7% year-over-year increase in July 2025, a big drop from the 20%+ surges seen in 2020–2021. Similarly, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows a 3.8% rise for Q2 2025. Looking ahead, Zillow projects only a 1.2% increase over the next 12 months, and some analysts believe certain markets may even see flat or slightly negative growth. The trend isn’t the same everywhere. Cities in the Midwest, like Cleveland and Chicago, are still posting gains above 4%, while several Florida and Western markets are seeing price pullbacks. Nationwide, listings are staying on the market longer and more homes are available, giving buyers more negotiating power than they’ve had in years. Mortgage Rates Are Gradually Falling Mortgage rates, which climbed above 7% in 2023 and early 2024, are finally easing. As of October 2025, the average 30-year fixed rate is around 6.3%. While that’s still higher than the historically low levels seen during the pandemic, it’s a welcome shift for affordability. Experts forecast rates will hold in the low-to-mid 6% range through the rest of 2025, with the possibility of reaching the mid-5% range by late 2026 if inflation and economic conditions continue to improve. Even a small drop in rates can significantly reduce monthly mortgage payments, making homeownership more achievable for many buyers. Why It Matters for Buyers and Sellers These shifts signal a market that is moving toward balance. For buyers, slower price growth and modestly lower rates mean less risk of being priced out and better financing options. For sellers, the landscape is more competitive, homes may take longer to sell, and pricing strategy matters more than ever, especially with many homeowners hesitant to give up lower locked-in rates. That said, affordability challenges remain. Years of rapid price growth combined with limited housing supply still make it difficult for some buyers to enter the market. Careful budgeting and local market research are key for both sides. Final Thoughts The two biggest challenges in recent years, fast-rising home prices and high mortgage rates, are starting to ease. While the adjustment won’t be overnight, the Housing Market 2025 outlook suggests conditions will continue to improve into 2026, creating new opportunities for those ready to buy or sell.  The 2025 housing market is evolving, don’t make decisions without expert guidance. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ Understanding the Divide in Today’s Real Estate Market The U.S. housing market looks very different depending on where you live. In some states, buyers have more leverage, while in others, sellers still hold the upper hand. This divide is driven by three key factors: inventory, home prices, and days on market. By looking at national housing data, you’ll see how buyer-friendly vs. seller-strong conditions are playing out, and why your local real estate market expertise  matters most when making a move. Inventory Shapes Buyer and Seller Power The biggest factor influencing today’s housing market is inventory. While the number of homes for sale has increased overall, the amount of growth varies widely from state to state. Buyer-friendly states (darker blue):  Inventory has grown faster, giving buyers more choices and stronger negotiating power. Seller-strong states (lighter blue):  Inventory is still low, so homes sell quickly and with fewer concessions. How Prices Follow Inventory Trends The next major factor is home prices. Inventory and pricing go hand in hand. Buyer-friendly states:  Prices are flattening or declining slightly as sellers adjust to higher competition. Buyers may see lower prices and more incentives. Seller-strong states:  Prices continue to rise where inventory is tight. Sellers in these areas may still attract multiple offers and higher sales prices. Time on Market Confirms the Split Another indicator is how long homes stay on the market. Buyer-friendly states:  Homes linger longer, giving buyers more time to make decisions and negotiate. Sellers may need to rethink pricing strategies. Seller-strong states:  Homes are selling fast, forcing buyers to act quickly while giving sellers more confidence. Why Local Expertise Is Key in This Market The bottom line is clear: real estate is hyper-local.  Statewide data shows general trends, but what really matters is what’s happening in your city and neighborhood. A local agent can help you interpret the numbers, explain buyer vs. seller dynamics in your area, and guide you through your next move. Final Thoughts The housing market is divided, and whether you’re in a buyer’s market or seller’s market  depends on your location. If you’re planning to buy or sell, don’t rely only on national headlines. Let’s connect, I’ll provide insights into your neighborhood market so you can make the right decision with confidence. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ For the past few years, homebuyers across the U.S. have felt the squeeze of higher mortgage rates, fast-rising prices, and limited inventory. But this fall, the housing market is finally showing some signs of relief. While affordability is still a hurdle, recent shifts are making it just a little easier for buyers to make their move. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s worth revisiting your home search, here are three reasons affordability is improving right now. 1. Mortgage Rates Are Cooling Interest rates may still feel high compared to a few years ago, but even small declines can make a meaningful difference in your monthly budget. For example, if you’re buying with a $400,000 mortgage, the difference between 7% and 6.3% saves you about $190 per month . That’s money that can go toward other expenses, or give you the breathing room to afford the home you really want. And that’s not just theory. Joel Kan, VP and Deputy Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), noted: “The downward rate movement spurred the strongest week of borrower demand since 2022 . . . Purchase applications increased to the highest level since July and continued to run more than 20 percent ahead of last year’s pace.” Bottom line: as rates ease, more buyers are reentering the market,proof that even small shifts matter. 2. Home Prices Have Moderated After several years of double-digit growth, national home prices are finally slowing down. While values are still edging higher, it’s happening at a much more manageable pace. Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, explains: “National home price growth remains positive, but muted — low single digits — and we expect this trend to continue in the second half of the year.” For buyers, that moderation makes it easier to plan ahead and stick to a budget. And in some markets, prices have even ticked down slightly, creating opportunities that weren’t there before. 3. Wages Are Rising Faster than Prices The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows wages are up nearly 4% annually . That’s important because, for the first time in a while, paychecks are growing faster than home prices. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, sums it up: “Wage growth is now comfortably outpacing home price growth, and buyers have more choices.” When your income grows faster than housing costs, affordability improves—even if just by a little. In today’s tight market, every bit counts. What This Means for You Put it all together, lower mortgage rates, slower home price growth, and rising wages , and buyers are seeing a window of opportunity this fall. According to Redfin, the typical monthly mortgage payment is already about $290 lower  than it was earlier this year. That shift could be enough to finally make the numbers work for you. Bottom Line Affordability is still a challenge, but conditions are improving compared to just a few months ago. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, now could be the right time to take another look. Let’s crunch the numbers together and see what this market means for your budget. Whether you’re ready to buy this season or just planning ahead, I can help you prepare and put a strategy in place. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ Technology is reshaping the real estate industry in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago. From how properties are marketed to the way buyers and investors make decisions, new technologies in real estate are setting a new standard for what it means to navigate the housing market. Virtual Tours and Augmented Reality One of the most visible changes has been the rise of virtual tours in real estate . Instead of driving from one listing to another, buyers can now walk through homes online using 3D imaging or augmented reality. This makes property shopping more efficient, removing barriers of distance and time, and enabling international real estate investors to explore opportunities remotely. Data-Driven Decision Making Modern real estate technology trends are anchored in data. Advanced analytics tools predict housing market shifts, evaluate neighborhood growth potential, and project long-term ROI. Artificial intelligence in real estate allows investors to assess risks quickly, while homebuyers get deeper insights into property valuation, schools, local amenities, and infrastructure before making decisions. Online Marketplaces and Blockchain The growth of online real estate platforms has transformed property buying, selling, and renting. Blockchain in real estate takes it a step further by digitizing property records and using smart contracts. These innovations speed up sales, increase transparency, and reduce fraud—historical pain points in the industry. Smart Homes and Sustainable Living Technology continues inside homes. Smart home technology —from AI-powered security systems to smart thermostats—has become a selling point for buyers. Adding to this, sustainable real estate technology such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances not only reduce costs but also boost property value and long-term appeal. Remote Work and Market Shifts The rise of remote work technology has changed buyer demand. People now prioritize home offices, reliable internet connectivity, and peaceful suburban or rural environments over proximity to urban job centers. This shift is reshaping real estate markets, opening up opportunities in areas that were once overlooked. The Balance Between Tech and Human Expertise Even with rapid digital transformation, the human element in real estate still matters. Buying or investing in property remains an emotional decision, and experienced real estate agents provide guidance, negotiation skills, and community knowledge that technology can’t replace. The future of real estate technology is not just about faster transactions—it’s about creating smarter, safer, and more sustainable homes while keeping human connections at the heart of the industry. Final Thoughts Technology isn’t replacing real estate professionals — it’s empowering them. By leveraging these innovations, agents can market more effectively, buyers can make more informed decisions, and investors can uncover opportunities with greater precision. What technology do you think is changing real estate the most — virtual tours, smart homes, or AI? Let’s talk! 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ What Are Property Taxes? Property taxes are local taxes charged on real estate. They’re usually based on the assessed value of your property  (land plus home) and the local property tax rate  set by your city, county, or school district. In the San Gabriel Valley , property taxes fund schools, public safety, roads, and city services that directly impact your neighborhood. How Are Property Taxes Calculated? The formula is simple: Assessed Value × Local Tax Rate = Property Tax Bill For example, if your Covina home is assessed at $500,000  and your local property tax rate is 1.2% , your yearly property tax would be $6,000 . 💡 Tip: Los Angeles County reassesses homes at sale or when major improvements are made, which means your tax bill may increase if you remodel or sell. Why Do Property Taxes Go Up? Homeowners across West Covina, Glendora, San Dimas, Diamond Bar, and La Puente  often ask: “Why are my property taxes rising?” Here are the main reasons: Rising Home Values  – When home prices in the San Gabriel Valley increase, tax bills follow. Voter-Approved Measures  – Bonds for schools, libraries, or parks may raise rates. Reassessments  – California’s Prop 13 limits increases, but reassessments at sale or transfer can cause a jump. Can You Lower Your Property Taxes? Yes—there are strategies to reduce your bill: Check Your Assessment : Errors happen. If your home’s assessed value is too high, appeal through Los Angeles County. Apply for Exemptions : Homeowner’s, senior citizen, and veteran exemptions can reduce your taxable value. Stay Informed : Market downturns in Glendora or Diamond Bar might allow you to request a reassessment. 👉 More info: California State Board of Equalization – Property Taxes Why Property Taxes Matter for Buyers and Sellers For Buyers : Always factor in property taxes when budgeting for a home in San Dimas, Covina, or West Covina. A lower-priced home with higher taxes may actually cost you more monthly than a higher-priced home with lower taxes. For Sellers : Buyers often ask about annual property taxes when considering affordability, so having this info ready can make your home more attractive. Final Thoughts Property taxes may not be the most glamorous part of owning a home, but in the San Gabriel Valley , they’re an important part of your financial picture. By understanding how they’re calculated, why they change, and what options you have to manage them, you’ll be better prepared to make smart real estate decisions. Curious how property taxes could impact your next move in the San Gabriel Valley? Let’s talk! 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ Buying a home is about more than square footage, updated kitchens, or a big backyard. While the house itself matters, the neighborhood around it often has an even greater impact on your daily life and long-term satisfaction . You can remodel a kitchen or add a deck, but you can’t change the street you live on, the school district it falls under, or how safe you feel taking an evening walk. That’s why doing thorough neighborhood research is just as important as evaluating the home itself. Why Neighborhood Research Matters When you buy a home, you’re also buying into a community. The neighbors, local amenities, schools, and overall vibe of the area will influence your lifestyle more than you may realize. A home can check every box on your wish list, but if it’s in a neighborhood that doesn’t align with your needs, it can quickly lose its appeal. 1. Quality of Life Do you like peace and quiet, or do you thrive in a lively, social environment? Some neighborhoods are bustling with activity, while others are quiet and suburban. Choosing an area that fits your lifestyle makes daily living more enjoyable. 2. Schools and Education Even if you don’t have children, buying in a strong school district can positively affect property values and resale potential. Families often prioritize top-rated schools, which can make your home more desirable in the future. 3. Safety and Security Safety should always be at the top of the list. Research local crime rates, but also pay attention to how the neighborhood feels. Are there streetlights? Do you see families walking their dogs or kids playing outside? These small observations say a lot about how safe a community feels. 4. Commute and Convenience A dream home can lose its shine if it adds an hour to your daily commute. Test drive the route to work during rush hour, and check the distance to grocery stores, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and other essentials. Convenience can make a big difference in your daily routine. 5. Future Growth and Value Look into city planning and upcoming developments. Is the area up-and-coming, with new businesses and infrastructure planned? Or are there concerns about overdevelopment or declining property values? A little research now can protect your investment in the long run. How to Research a Neighborhood Visit at different times of the day.  A quiet afternoon might turn into a noisy evening. Talk to locals.  Neighbors are often the best source of insight about a community. Use online tools.  Websites that track crime, school ratings, and walkability can provide helpful data. Drive or walk around.  Notice the condition of homes, streets, and public spaces. Pride of ownership is a good sign. Final Thoughts When you buy a home, you’re choosing more than a property—you’re choosing the setting for your daily life and future memories. By taking the time to thoroughly research the neighborhood, you’ll have greater confidence that your new home truly fits your lifestyle and long-term goals. Remember: you can change the house, but you can’t change the neighborhood. Ready to start your home search? Let’s find the right house, and the right neighborhood, for you. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ How Important is the Title to a Property? When buying or selling a home, most people focus on price, location, and condition. But there’s one critical factor that often gets overlooked, the property title . A title is more than just paperwork; it’s the legal foundation of property ownership. Without a clear title, even the most beautiful home can become a legal headache. So, just how important is the title to a property? Let’s break it down. What Exactly is a Property Title? In real estate, the title  represents your legal rights to a property. It means you have the right to occupy it, use it, sell it, or pass it on. Many people confuse the title with the deed, but they’re not the same. Deed:  The physical document that transfers ownership. Title:  The legal concept that proves who owns the property and what rights they have. Think of the deed as the receipt, and the title as the actual ownership. Why a Clear Title Matters Having a clear title  is essential in any real estate transaction. Without it, you can’t confidently sell, buy, or finance a property. Here’s why it matters: Prevents disputes:  Ensures no one else can claim ownership. Guarantees marketability:  A buyer (and their lender) won’t move forward if the title isn’t clear. Protects financial security:  Unresolved liens or debts can follow the property, not the previous owner. For sellers, resolving title issues early makes the home selling process  smoother. For buyers, a clean title provides peace of mind that they’re truly the rightful owner. Common Title Issues That Can Arise Even with professional records, mistakes happen, and those errors can surface during a sale. Some of the most common title problems  include: Errors in public records  (typos or filing mistakes). Unknown liens  from unpaid contractors or taxes. Heirship claims  when a deceased owner’s relatives come forward. Boundary disputes  if property lines weren’t recorded correctly. Fraud or forgery  in past documents. Any of these can delay or even derail a transaction, which is why the title search  is so important. Role of Title Search and Title Insurance Before closing, a title company  conducts a thorough title search to confirm ownership and uncover potential issues. This process digs into decades of public records to ensure nothing is overlooked. But even the most detailed search can miss something. That’s where title insurance  comes in. Title insurance protects both buyers and lenders from financial loss if an unexpected claim pops up later. For example: Imagine buying a home and later discovering there’s a lien from a contractor the previous owner never paid. Without title insurance, that problem becomes your responsibility. With insurance, you’re covered. What Sellers Should Do Before Listing If you’re planning to sell, it’s smart to review your title early in the process. Here’s what you can do: Check for liens or unpaid debts  tied to the property. Resolve ownership disputes  before listing. Work with a trusted real estate agent and title company  who can guide you step-by-step. A little preparation goes a long way toward avoiding closing delays and keeping buyers confident. Final Thoughts At the end of the day, the property title  is the backbone of any real estate transaction. It confirms ownership, protects against disputes, and ensures that your investment is secure. Whether you’re buying your first home or preparing to sell, making sure your title is clear can save you from stress, and unexpected costs. If you’re thinking about selling and aren’t sure where to start, I’d be happy to walk you through the process, including checking your property title. A smooth closing starts with clarity and preparation. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ What You Need to Know Before Selling or Buying in Probate If a loved one passes away and leaves behind a house, you can’t just put it on the market right away. Instead, the property usually has to go through probate , a court process that makes sure everything is handled fairly and legally. If you’re an heir, an executor, or even a buyer interested in probate properties , knowing how the process works can save you from stress and surprises down the road. What Exactly Is Probate in Real Estate? Probate is the legal process of transferring someone’s assets, like a home, after they’ve passed away. For real estate, this means the court oversees the sale or transfer of the property before heirs can officially inherit or sell it. You’ll usually run into probate if: The home was owned solely by the person who passed (not in a trust or with joint ownership). There wasn’t a transfer-on-death deed. The property wasn’t already set up to go directly to heirs. In short: if the property isn’t protected by estate planning tools, it’s going through probate. Selling a House in Probate Yes, you can sell a house in probate, but it’s not as simple as a traditional sale. Here’s what typically happens: Executor or Administrator is Appointed: The court names someone (usually a family member or the person listed in the will) to manage the estate. This person is in charge of the home sale. The Property Gets Valued: A probate referee or appraiser sets the fair market value. Listing the Home: The house goes on the market with a real estate agent familiar with probate sales . Listings often mention that the sale is “subject to court approval.” Court Approval (in some cases): Sometimes the judge must confirm the buyer and final price. This can add a few extra months to the probate timeline . Funds Are Distributed: Once the sale closes, the money is used to pay debts and expenses. The rest goes to the heirs. Probate Sale vs. Regular Sale Here’s the big difference: Probate Sale : Takes longer (6–12 months on average), may require court approval, and can involve bidding in court. Traditional Sale : Faster, simpler, and more flexible for buyers and sellers. That’s why buyers should be patient with probate sales, and heirs should expect more paperwork and delays compared to a normal transaction. Can Probate Be Avoided? The good news is, yes. Homeowners can save their family from going through probate by planning ahead. Some common tools are: Living Trusts  – keeps property out of probate entirely. Joint Ownership with Right of Survivorship  – the property automatically transfers to the surviving owner. Transfer-on-Death Deeds  – available in some states, this lets you name who gets the property without probate. Final Thoughts Probate real estate can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re handling the sale of a loved one’s home, or if you’re looking to buy a probate property , the key is working with professionals who know the process. A probate attorney and a real estate agent experienced in probate sales can guide you step by step, making sure the process is handled correctly and as smoothly as possible. Have probate real estate questions? Call me today—I’ll walk you through the process. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com