Three Simple Steps for Getting Mortgage Ready

Three Simple Steps for Getting Mortgage Ready

Don’t wait until you’re ready to move to start preparing financially to buy a home.

If you’re like the vast majority of home buyers, you will choose to finance your purchase with a mortgage loan. By preparing in advance, you can avoid the common delays and roadblocks many buyers face when applying for a mortgage.

The requirements to secure a mortgage may seem overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. But I’ve outlined three simple steps for getting mortgage ready.

Even if you’re a current homeowner, it’s a good idea to prepare in advance so you don’t encounter any surprises along the way. Lending requirements have become more rigorous in recent years. Changes to your credit history, debt levels, job type and other factors could impact your chances of approval.

It’s never too early to start preparing to buy a home. Follow these three steps to begin laying the foundation for your future home purchase today!

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North County and San Diego Events April 2018

North County and San Diego Events April 2018

The Flower FieldsThe Flower Fields
March 1 – May 13
Location: Carlsbad, 5704 Paseo del Norte

For over sixty years, Mother Nature has transformed the rolling hills of north San Diego County into one of the most spectacular and coordinated displays of natural color and beauty anywhere in the world. The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch® in Carlsbad, California, are in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year – from early March through early May – literally bringing the famous fields back to life. This annual burst of color, which has become part of the area’s local heritage, also is one of nature’s official ways of announcing the arrival of spring here in southern California.

Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 1 at 6:30 am.

  • Hours: Open to the public seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Prices: Adults: $16.00 Seniors 60+: $14.00 Children 3-10 yrs.: $8.00 Children 2 yrs. & under: Free
  • Season Passes: Adults: $35.00 Seniors 60+: $30.00 Children 3-10 yrs.: $18.00

The Flower Fields are an alcohol and tobacco free environment. Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onsite. No Bicycles, hoverboards or drones are permitted.


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March 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report

March 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report

The March 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report shows February picking up steam. Job growth in San Diego County is strong, and incomes are expected to grow. This along with a lack of homes available for purchase, both new and resale, continues to fuel price increases. Interest rates are rising though, and this limits buyers’ ability to qualify. This is expected to slow down home appreciation in 2018.

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North County and San Diego Events March 2018

North County and San Diego Events March 2018

The Flower Fields
March 1 – May 13
Location: Carlsbad, 5704 Paseo del Norte

The Flower FieldsFor over sixty years, Mother Nature has transformed the rolling hills of north San Diego County into one of the most spectacular and coordinated displays of natural color and beauty anywhere in the world. The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch® in Carlsbad, California, are in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year – from early March through early May – literally bringing the famous fields back to life. This annual burst of color, which has become part of the area’s local heritage, also is one of nature’s official ways of announcing the arrival of spring here in southern California.

  • Hours: Open to the public seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Prices: Adults: $16.00 Seniors 60+: $14.00 Children 3-10 yrs.: $8.00 Children 2 yrs. & under: Free
  • Season Passes: Adults: $35.00 Seniors 60+: $30.00 Children 3-10 yrs.: $18.00

The Flower Fields are an alcohol and tobacco free environment. Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted onsite. No Bicycles, hoverboards or drones are permitted.


Continue reading North County and San Diego Events March 2018

February 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report

February 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report

The February 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report shows January as a fairly quiet month. This is expected after the holidays. That being said, we still saw continued price increases and tight inventory in San Diego and North County. In fact, San Diego ranked sixth on the hottest U.S. markets list from realtor.com®.

Change may be coming though. Interest rates are increasing. These higher rates will decrease buyer’s purchasing power. Tax law changes now limit property tax deductions. With these changes, experts expect price increases to continue, but at a slower pace. They also see more inventory coming on the market by the end of the year.

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Home Design Trends for 2018

Home Design Trends for 2018

I frequently get questions from clients who are taking on decorating and remodeling projects and want to ensure their dollars are invested wisely.

Which looks will last for years to come, and which ones will feel dated quickly? What colors and styles are most popular among buyers in San Diego County? How can I add the most value to my home?

So I’ve rounded up some of the hottest home design trends to help guide you through the process. Whether you’ve planned a simple refresh or a full-scale renovation, making smart and informed design choices will help you maximize your return on investment and minimize the chance of “remodeler’s remorse” down the road.

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North County and San Diego Events February 2018

North County and San Diego Events February 2018

Museum MonthMuseum Month: Half-Off Admission
February 1 – 28
Location: Multiple Locations

Arts, entertainment and culture collide for Macy’s Museum Month in San Diego. This February the San Diego Museum Council and Macy’s have teamed up again for Museum Month, giving patrons a chance to discover what’s new at 45 area museums with savings only seen once a year.

Participants can pick up a Museum Month Pass at any area Macy’s store to enjoy half-off admission to all of the participating museums through the entire month of February. Passes will be available beginning February 1 at all San Diego, Temecula and Imperial Valley Macy’s.


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January 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report

January 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report

The January 2018 San Diego Housing Market Report reveals continued price increases and an even tighter inventory in San Diego and North County. This is great if you are planning on selling your home, but frustrating if you are looking to buy one.

Even with our tight inventory, it might not be a good idea to wait to buy. Many experts think appreciation will continue, but slow down. Interest rates are expected to increase. So is inventory, but not until late in the year. I have more information about what to expect in the 2018 real estate market in this recent post.

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What to Expect: Real Estate in 2018

Real Estate in 2018

As we head into a new year, the most common question I receive is, “What’s the outlook for real estate in 2018?”

It’s not just potential buyers and sellers who are curious; homeowners also want reassurance their home’s value is going up. The good news is that a strong U.S. economy, coupled with low unemployment rates, is expected to drive continued real estate growth in 2018. However, changes on the horizon could significantly impact you if you plan to buy, sell or refinance this year.

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Homeowner Tax Changes

Tax Changes

The new tax law  signed  at the end of 2017 will affect all taxpayers. Homeowners should familiarize themselves with the areas that could impact them specifically. These items may require some planning to maximize the benefits.

Tax Changes for Homeowners

Here are some of the tax changes that will affect most homeowners:

  • Reduces the limit on deductible mortgage debt to $750,000 for loans made after 12/14/17. But existing loans of up to $1 million are not subject to the new $750,000 cap.
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