Selling your home means making dozens (if not hundreds) of decisions, starting with whether to work with a real estate agent.
Even after commissions, statistics show that listing your home with a professional versus trying to sell by owner (FSBO) results in not only a faster sale but more money for the seller. Here are 6 benefits to listing with an Agent:
1. They understand fair market value and pricing strategy: When you work with an experienced, local agent, they should have a great handle on just what your home is worth in your area, and what kind of pricing will get buyers through the door. They can help you walk the tightrope of getting you as much money out of your house as possible, while still appealing to a wide range of buyers.
2. They’re objective listing experts: Good real estate agents have a deep understanding of their local market and want to show your home in the best light. They also have relationships with photographers and home stagers, who can all work as a team to highlight the amenities that local buyers want.
3. They have access to extensive market exposure: With access to the local MLS and online listing portals, social media presence, professional networks, connections with other agents, and name recognition, your real estate agent can get a lot of eyes on your listing and plenty of potential buyers in the front door.
4. Buyer’s agents are more likely to show your listing to clients: Real estate agents are paid on commission, so some agents may not take the time to show your FSBO listing to their clients, since there’s no guaranteed commission.
5. They’ll negotiate professionally: Experienced agents can spot serious buyers and guide you toward the strongest offers, which eliminates the burden of calls and negotiations with less motivated shoppers. Agents are extremely familiar with both the selling process and your local market, so they can recommend appropriate counteroffers. Bottom line: They’ll help you get as much money as possible. No wonder 82% of sellers surveyed by Zillow said they value their agent’s ability to lead contract negotiations.
6. They know the paperwork: There’s a lot of documentation involved when you sell a home, and without an agent, the burden of making sure it’s complete and accurate falls on the seller (or an attorney you’ve hired to help). Seasoned real estate professionals are experts at the purchase and sale process, and all the legalese that comes with it.
We put your listing in front of potential buyers worldwide, and offer the same unparalleled service to all price ranges. We know that trust is earned through delivering results and that our success is defined by yours. If you’re considering selling your home, or just want to get a sense of what your home would get on the market, we would love to help.
How to buy a house with an “Individual Tax Identification Number” ITIN Home Loans
Undocumented residents that couldn’t obtain a loan even though they were qualified financially can now purchase a home with a loan program for residents with an ITIN.
What does that mean?
If someone does not have a SS number, frequently the company they work for will set them up with an ITIN so that they can be employed. The individual will then file their taxes under the ITIN.
Even though the ITIN shows that the person has been working and paying taxes, previously they would still not have been able to get a loan because of the requirement for a SS number.
Now, one of the programs available has waived the SS number requirement. If you have any friends or family that have been turned down because they don’t have a SS but have been filing taxes for 2 years with an ITIN we can get them a loan.
Requirements:
• 2 years of tax returns
• 2 Months of bank statement
• 20% down payment
• 1 year employment in the same or similar line of work (salary or self employed).
• Borrower must occupy the property.
Program Highlights:
• Fixed Loan
• Higher Interest Rate
You can also qualify combining a resident with a Social and with ITIN with as little as 10% down.
Owner occupied up to $750,000 purchase and Cash out.
If you or someone you know is looking for something more specific, CONTACT ME and I would be more than happy to send you updated listing in specific cities, price points, and features.
The VA loan: Better than FHA and conventional loans?
There is a “right program” for every mortgage borrower, but for many, the VA loan stands apart for its combination of low rates, aggressive underwriting, and secondary benefits.
Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans are designed to help active-duty military personnel, veterans and certain other groups become homeowners at an affordable cost.
The VA loan asks for no down payment, requires no mortgage insurance, allows flexible guidelines for qualification among its many other advantages.
Here’s an overview of the 10 biggest benefits of a VA home loan.
1. No down payment on a VA loan
Most home loan programs require you to make at least a small down payment to buy a home. The VA home loan is an exception.
Rather than paying 5, 10, 20 percent or more of the home’s purchase price upfront in cash, with a VA loan you can finance up to 100 percent of the purchase price. The VA loan is a true no-money-down opportunity.
2. No mortgage insurance for VA loans
Typically, lenders require you to pay for mortgage insurance if you make a down payment that’s less than 20 percent. This insurance, which is known as private mortgage insurance (PMI) for a conventional loan and a mortgage insurance premium (MIP) for an FHA loan, protects the lender in the event that you default on your loan.
VA loans require neither a down payment nor mortgage insurance. That makes this a VA-backed mortgage very affordable upfront and over time.
3. VA loans have a government guarantee
There’s a reason why the VA loan comes with such favorable terms. The federal government guarantees that a portion of the loan will be repaid to the lender even if you’re unable to make monthly payments for whatever reason.
This guarantee encourages and enables lenders to offer VA loans with exceptionally attractive terms to borrowers that want them.
4. Your ability to shop and compare VA loans
VA loans are neither originated nor funded by the VA. Furthermore, mortgage rates for VA loans aren’t set by the VA itself. Instead, VA loans are offered by U.S. banks, savings-and-loans institutions, credit unions and mortgage lenders — each of which sets its own VA loan rates and fees.
This means you can shop around and compare loan offers and still choose the VA loan that works best for your budget.
5. VA loans don’t allow a prepayment penalty
A VA loan won’t restrict your right to sell your home if you decide you no longer want to own it. There’s no prepayment penalty or early-exit fee no matter within what time frame you decide to sell your home.
Furthermore, there are no restrictions regarding a refinance of your VA loan.
You can refinance your existing VA loan into another VA loan via the agency’s Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) program or switch into a non-VA loan at any time.
6. They come in many varieties
A VA loan can have a fixed rate or an adjustable rate. It can be used to buy a house, condo, new-built home, manufactured home, duplex or other types of properties.
Or, it can be used to refinance your existing mortgage, make repairs or improvements to your home, or make your home more energy efficient. The choices are yours. A VA-approved lender can help you decide.
7. It’s easier to qualify for VA loans
Like all mortgage types, VA loans require specific documentation, an acceptable credit history and sufficient income to make your monthly payments. But, as compared to other loan programs, VA loan guidelines tend to be more flexible. This is made possible because of the VA loan guaranty.
The Department of Veterans Affairs genuinely wants to make it easier for you to buy a home or refinance.
8. VA loan closing costs are lower
The VA limits the closing costs lenders can charge to VA loan applicants. This is another way that a VA loan can be more affordable than other types of loans. Money saved can be used for furniture, moving costs, home improvements or anything else.
9. The VA offers funding fee flexibility
VA loans require a “funding fee”, an upfront cost based on your loan amount, your type of eligible service, your down payment size plus other factors. Funding fees don’t need to be paid as cash, though. The VA allows it to be financed with the loan, so nothing is due at closing.
And, not all VA borrowers will pay it. VA funding fees are normally waived for veterans who receive VA disability compensation and for unmarried surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or as a result of a service-connected disability.
10. VA loans are assumable
Most VA loans are “assumable,” which means you can transfer your VA loan to a future home buyer if that person is also VA-eligible.
Assumable loans can be a huge benefit when you sell your home — especially in a rising mortgage rate environment. If your home loan has today’s low rate and market rates rise in the future, the assumption features of your VA become even more valuable.
Raul & Elida listed their starter home for sale in 2015 with an agent, and after about 80 days, 1 offer that disappeared, and appointments after appointments, they decided to cancel the listing, and wait. Thankfully my friend Haydee referred Elida to me, we met, sat together and came up with a marketing and financial game plan in June. They listed their home for sale in 2015 for $325,000 and were unsuccessful. We were aiming to close at a $350,000 sales price considering the comparables, and the amount they wanted to net from the sale. After some preparations, and marketing, we had our first Open House and received over 20 offers on their home! We opened escrow and for unknown reasons, the buyer decided to cancel escrow. We were all frustrated, but sometimes in real estate… THINGS HAPPEN. Luckily we had a house that was HOT on the market and the buyers decided to cancel within their inspection period so not too much time was lost. One weekend later we opened escrow again with an additional $2000 in their offer, sometimes “bad” things happen for very good reasons.
We did encounter a few more hiccups with the city of Compton and their Pre sale requirements, but after the cities delays we aimed for $350,000 but CLOSED escrow with $370,000… A number we never discussed.
Of course when you’re selling something as important as a house, daily communication is key. After only a few months, I’ve grown to love the Perez and Jimenez family very much! Its a blessing to be able to assist and add quality people to your circle of friends.
BUT somehow, they always think of me when its supposed to be all about them!!!
Thank you Elida & Raul for choosing me, & for gifting me with Raider tickets!!! Yes!
Now my boyfriend and I get to celebrate with them in Oakland on my birthday weekend, because they are Raider fans also!
Ultimately, this is supposed to be more than just buying and selling… the experience should be something you’ll never forget, more than just hard work… its an accomplishment that deserves to feel special.
Congratulations on the sale of your starter home Elida & Raul! Details on the New Home Coming Soon!!!
Manuel and his family were looking for a couple of months as they were renting in a home that was about to be sold and had decided to purchase their first home instead of continuing to rent and pay someone else’s mortgage. After feeling neglected and feeling as if they weren’t actively looking with their agent, they decided to move on before they were left with no more time.
Manuel decided to re qualify with Jorge Martinez – Bay Equity; they took me on as their Realtor and we looked at 9 homes our first weekend together. After shopping in Fontana, and Rialto, they decided to expand to Highland, CA where they closed escrow on a completely remodeled, 4 bedroom, 2 story home while staying $40,000 below the initial budget! While in escrow, we negotiated all repairs to be made, and they received stainless steel microwave with range, and dishwasher to match.
I was blessed to have met them all, they are such a kind and amazing family, and it was an honor to represent them as best as possible.
Congratulations to the new residents of Highland, CA!
I’m so blessed to be able to congratulate the sweetest family on their new investment homes! Plural. because they purchased a TRIPLEX!
I had the opportunity to assist Stephanie (Deni’s sister) in the sale and purchase of her home and Stephanie introduced me to Deni & Juan. Deni & Juan are the owners of the company “Trims and More” that is expanding and were looking for a property that can help house their products/ continue to grow their business. We began our journey in Mixed use properties and found that the financing aspect for commercial and residential properties was a bit tedious. We moved on to searching for Commercial only properties for their company, and found something that would have been perfect until we did further research on the building type, etc. and ultimately didn’t pass the criteria. We looked ceaselessly for the perfect property that could meet their needs until Juan drove by this triplex and asked me to look into the details.
After some time, waiting on tenants, coordinating with Sellers that were on vacation, and city research for permits, we opened escrow! 30 days later, Deni & Juan are now owners of a property that will pay itself, and automatically has $10,000 equity!
I hope their future plans for the building will help grow their business, but regardless, this purchase is a true asset!
Thank you for allowing me to assist you! Ive had the privilege to meet most of your family, and everyone is beyond wonderful! Love you all so much, I will always be here for you all!!! CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN!
I wanted to share my fathers journey to show that a financial and personal plan can lead to home ownership. He is a self employed Artist in the industry and is now living in a 4 bedroom remodeled home with my stepmother and teenage brother. Here is my fathers testimonial below:
“From a 500 dollar, a month stipend to owning my own home in three years”
-John Zender
5 years ago, I was asked by a pastor friend if I would take a spiritual challenge, the challenge was to drop everything I was doing and assist him in his vision of church planting in the MacArthur park area. I told him I would pray about it and get back to him, well I did pray and it seemed like most of the doors I was expecting to open were closing, that made me wonder if maybe working with the church was what God wanted me to do. The church could only offer me a $500 stipend every month, I was commuting from Torrance to Highland park every day so I was spending $200 a month on gas alone. Another thing they would offer is studio space for free, now that seemed interesting since I was neglecting my art career for years. I worked with the church for three years, helping with outreach ministry, running a new location, promotional materials and other things. I hung in there for three years doing small art projects to help offset the expenses, on the third year the church could no longer offer the stipend but offered a larger studio space near the downtown LA area. I knew this was now the time I had to begin to prepare for what I really wanted to do with my career. I went back into painting my own personal work and pulled out about 50 new easel works and several mural projects. One of those mural projects was a continuous evolving mural at metroflex gym in Long Beach. That project allowed me to gain exposure in the fitness genre and got the attention of the owner of The Camp. He allowed me to paint some of his gyms and informed me that they were planning on opening more locations. During this time, I was now living in Torrance with my in laws in a small one room location, I knew I had to make some serious decisions about my career and my life. I rented an art studio in San Pedro and began to work hard trying to save as much as I could. At first, I was just trying to follow the advice of Dave Ramsey in saving $3,000 for an emergency fund, and later a need to save for materials for my business since the gym franchise was moving faster than I expected. I consulted with my daughter, Desiree Estrada who is a real estate agent with century 21, about the possibility of trying to buy a house for space, (one thing artist really need is physical space). She gave me the real estate breakdown of the two to three-year income tax review plus the credit check, and of course if I qualified the down payment and closing costs. I then asked what if I wanted to buy a house now… She then said “we can try to review your income taxes next year for this year and if you can clear over 50K Net a year you could qualify…. So, my son and I began to challenge ourselves into trying to save and of course make as much as we could by not over spending and even hiding our savings in accounts that had no ATM attached to them. We knew we would have to pay the IRS next year for that income but we saw it as an investment for that house. Goals, discipline and strict coordination was all me and my son thought about. I remember working with youth and trying to share the information of the 7 habits of highly effective people by Stephen Covey with them, (Be Proactive, begin with the end in mind, put things first, think Win Win, understand before being understood, Synergize and Sharpen the saw). Now I had to live these qualities and share them with my son. In January of 2017 I did my taxes and cleared 40K Net and paid a lump sum to the IRS…with much help from Desiree’s team at century 21, I got approved for a loan and in June of 2017 the month my son graduated from Jr High with Honors, God blessed us with a 4-bedroom house with lots of space we closed escrow on that same month and the beginning of a new journey has begun. I plan to build a studio and produce as much new work as I can…
John Zender
Thank you for reading… I hope this can inspire you or someone you know. Very excited for them, and I am here to assist anyone who is looking to begin their mortgage plan as well.
Selling your home, is not a walk in the park, it definitely requires a lot of work and planning. This video will give you a general idea of how to begin your selling journey. There are a lot of factors and changing variables for each individual, and the information provided will be general. For more specific questions feel free to contact me direct. Thank you for watching the “Sellers 101” video!
