The Bounty Hunter Wine Bar in Napa Valley – One of Our Top Picks
The Bounty Hunter Wine Bar in Napa Valley is one of our favorite places to bring family and friends. Since everyone on The Pujals Team loves to eat, a...Jul 16, 2019
Welcome Home | a Real Estate Blog by the Pujals Team
Go Green! 5 Eco-Friendly Home Staging Tips
Concern for the environment … being eco-friendly … a desire to go green … Whatever you prefer to call it, making earth-friendly choices is a pri...Jul 2, 2019
The Low-Risk Way to Get Started in Real Estate Investing
Does the idea of real estate investing intrigue you, but the risk scares you? If so, you’re not alone. While many people say they’d love to get st...Jun 18, 2019
The Pros and Cons of Down Payment Assistance Programs
Saving a down payment for a home is a big financial commitment. This is especially true if your goal is to save 20% of the purchase price. As such, ma...Jun 4, 2019
Enjoy the Sweet Life at The Model Bakery in Napa Valley
Low-carb and no carb diets may be the rage these days, but when you walk into The Model Bakery in Napa Valley, you simply have to indulge. This once h...May 21, 2019
Tips for Choosing the Best Paint Color to Stage Your Home
What’s the quickest and easiest way to update your home’s design or better stage your home? A quick coat of paint! In fact, new paint color is one...May 7, 2019
Successful Real Estate Investing – It’s All About Mindset
If you want long-term financial stability, real estate investing is a great path to get there. And it’s not just real estate agents who say that. Ac...Apr 30, 2019
Is a Home Inspection Required for a Mortgage Approval?
When you’re buying a home and going through the mortgage approval process, there are many things you must do; but is getting a home inspection one o...Apr 23, 2019
Summer in Napa Valley – The Perfect Vacation Spot
If you’re trying to plan the perfect family summer vacation, then look no further than Napa Valley. Even if you already live in Napa Valley, you can...Apr 16, 2019
Stage the Perfect Master Bedroom Retreat
Having a master bedroom retreat is a key selling point for any home. When buyers tour your home, you want them to see your home as a relaxing oasis, f...Apr 9, 2019
What NOT to do When Applying for a Mortgage
When you’re applying for a mortgage, it’s easy to find lists of action steps to take. You check your credit, get your financial papers in order, a...Apr 2, 2019
Embrace the Napa Valley Lifestyle at Oxbow Public Market
When it comes to experiencing the Napa Valley lifestyle, one of the top things that comes to mind is the Oxbow Public Market. Situated in the Oxbow Di...Mar 26, 2019
Create an Outdoor Living Room
To make your home appeal to more buyers, consider creating an outdoor living room. Why? One thing home buyers like is ample living space, both inside ...Mar 19, 2019
Top 3 Things A First-Time Home Buyer Should Know
At The Pujals Team, we love working with a first-time home buyer. It’s exciting to help someone fulfill one of their life goals. Home ownership is a...Mar 12, 2019
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Listing Agent
When it’s time to sell your home, you need to hire a listing agent who will work hard to ensure you get the most money for your home. After all, you...Mar 5, 2019
What are the Closing Costs for Home Buyers?
When many people buy a home, especially first-time home buyers, they are often surprised at the amount of money they spend on closing costs. In fact, ...Feb 26, 2019
What You Need to Know About the 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange
If you’re a real estate investor, you’ve probably heard about the 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange. But you may have questions about how it works. We at...Feb 19, 2019
Napa Valley is the Best Place to Live
California is a great state with many famous cities, but the best region in The Golden State (in our opinion) is Napa Valley. The Pujals family has lo...Feb 12, 2019
Top 3 Mistakes Every Real Estate Investor Should Avoid
Many people dream about being a real estate investor. After all, the popular TV shows make it look so easy. Just buy an outdated property for cheap, f...Feb 5, 2019
Home Buying Etiquette: 4 Things to Avoid on a Property Tour
For most home buyers, the most exciting and fun part of the experience is going on a property tour. This is when you get to imagine yourself in the ho...Jan 29, 2019
Applying for a Mortgage? Here’s Your Document Checklist
Applying for a mortgage requires a lot of paperwork and documentation. However, if you come to your lender with all the documents they are likely to n...Jan 22, 2019
Don’t Downsize Your Home – Right Size Your Life!
While many people choose to upsize their home, a good number contact us because it’s time to downsize. Downsizing from a large home to a smaller one...Jan 15, 2019
Overcoming an Emotional Attachment to an Investment Property
Having an emotional attachment to a home is completely normal, especially if you’ve lived in the home for many years or invested a lot of sweat equi...Jan 8, 2019
Is a Mortgage Broker Your Best Choice?
When we work with buyers, one of the most common questions they ask is, “Who is the best mortgage broker to work with?” Our clients are usually su...Jan 1, 2019
Maximize Your Home’s Curb Appeal to Get Top Dollar
If you’re selling your home, you likely know how important home staging is. But just as you stage the interior of your home, you also need to stage ...Dec 25, 2018
Should You Get an Online Mortgage?
It seems that everything is online these days, from online shopping and food delivery to an online mortgage and doctor visit. This begs the question: ...Dec 18, 2018
Sell Your Home for Top Dollar
You want to sell your home for top dollar. If you’re like most home sellers, you’ve probably read many articles or watched videos about the import...Dec 11, 2018
Don’t Overpay for Your New Home
You work hard for your money, so you definitely don’t want to overpay when you’re buying a new home. In fact, the number one fear we hear from hom...Dec 4, 2018
Manage Your Expectations When Selling Your Home
Selling your home can be stressful. You may feel anxious, angry, or even sad at times. Physical manifestations of this stress may appear as fatigue, s...Nov 27, 2018
Why You Should Visit Napa Valley in the Winter
When most people think of visiting Napa Valley, they try to plan their trip for the summer or spring—the peak tourist season. But did you know that ...Nov 20, 2018
Understanding the Cap Rate When Buying Investment Real Estate
Smart real estate investors use a variety of financial tools to guide their buying decision—one of which is the capitalization rate, or cap rate. ...Nov 13, 2018
What It’s Really Like to Live and Work in Napa Valley
Napa Valley may be known as a premier tourist destination; however, it’s also an ideal place to live and work. Did you know that every year approxim...Nov 6, 2018
Get Started in the Napa Valley Vacation Rental Market
Instead of selling your home and buying a new one, perhaps you’ve considered keeping it as an investment and putting your home on the vacation renta...Oct 30, 2018
Make the Most of Your Next Open House Visit
Open houses are a staple in the real estate industry. Unfortunately, many home buyers aren’t sure how to approach an open house. If you’re just...Oct 23, 2018
Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent – What’s the Difference?
When people talk about real estate, they often use the terms “Realtor” and “Real Estate Agent” interchangeably. But the two designations are a...Oct 16, 2018
Home Staging Tips for Your Kitchen
When it comes to home staging, it’s important to spend ample time on your kitchen. Staging your kitchen properly can make the difference between sel...Oct 9, 2018
Know When It’s Time for a Price Reduction
Many sellers have the topic of price reduction on their mind. In fact, one of the most common questions home sellers ask is, “When should I lower th...Oct 2, 2018
What to Look for When Choosing a Napa Valley Real Estate Agent
When you’re buying a Napa Valley home, you want to work with an experienced Napa Valley real estate agent. You want someone who will work with your ...Sep 25, 2018
Buying a Napa Valley Home? You Need a Realtor!
Whether you’re buying your first Napa Valley home or have gone through the home buying process many times, you need a Realtor early in the proce...Sep 18, 2018
Home Staging Tips for Your Living Room
If you want to sell your home fast, your home staging is vital. And while all the rooms in your home are important to buyers, your living room is a fo...Sep 11, 2018
How to Combat Disappointment When Buying a Home
While buying a home is definitely an exciting experience, it can also be laced with disappointment. In fact, most home buyers have a story about ...Sep 4, 2018
Tips for Being a Successful Landlord
Renting out your home (aka – being a landlord) is a great way to establish a steady income stream and build long-term wealth. But make no mistake ...Aug 28, 2018
Stress Relief for Home Sellers
If you’re selling your home, you may be yearning for some stress relief. Did you know that selling your home is regarded as one of the most stressfu...Aug 21, 2018
3 Inexpensive Home Staging Ideas that Yield Big Results
If you’re selling your home, you know that home staging is vital. You want your home to look updated and modern, no matter when it was built or the ...Aug 14, 2018
The Top 5 Reasons to Make Napa Valley Your Home
I’ve lived in the Napa Valley area since 1987. In all that time I’ve visited many beautiful and unique parts of the United States, yet I’ve neve...Aug 7, 2018
Pricing Tips to Sell Your House Fast
If you want to sell your house fast, then pricing matters. After all, few people enjoy opening their home to strangers and having it on the market for...Aug 1, 2018
Why Having a Mortgage Pre-Approval is Essential for Home Buyers
Many home buyers ask, “Do I really need a mortgage pre-approval before I start my home search?” The answer: YES! Whether you’re a first-time hom...Jul 24, 2018
How To Price Your Home Effectively
One of the most difficult aspects of listing your home for sale, is trying to price it appropriately. Most people have a general idea of what thei...Jul 5, 2018
The Bounty Hunter Wine Bar in Napa Valley – One of Our Top Picks
The Bounty Hunter Wine Bar in Napa Valley is one of our favorite places to bring family and friends. Since everyone on The Pujals Team loves to eat, and the food at Bounty Hunter is always delicious, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day. It combines great wine and great barbeque in the heart of Napa Valley, making it one of our Napa Valley Top Picks. Wine and Food Galore! To say this place is amazing is an understatement. If you’re a wine lover, they have an 18-page wine list, with 400 different wines available by the bottle, and 40 available by the glass. No matter what type of wine you like or what country you prefer your wine from, you’re sure to find it here. It’s no wonder they’ve been voted “Best Wine Bar in Napa Valley” five years running. The food is equally impressive. Even before you walk in the door you can smell the barbeque aroma and you immediately know the food is going to be great. Some of our favorite dishes on the menu are the Beer Can Chicken and the Smokin’ St. Louis Cut Ribs. They also serve a Chocolate Pot de Crème dessert that is the perfect way to end a meal. Located on First Street in the heart of Napa in a historic 1880’s building, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar in Napa Valley offers a California casual experience and is within easy walking distance to everything in downtown Napa, including the Uptown Theatre. It really is a meat and wine lovers dream. Have you been dreaming of living the Napa Valley lifestyle? Now ...Jul 16, 2019
Go Green! 5 Eco-Friendly Home Staging Tips
Concern for the environment … being eco-friendly … a desire to go green … Whatever you prefer to call it, making earth-friendly choices is a priority for many right now. They’re concerned about the earth and want to reduce their carbon footprint in all aspects of their life – even in their home décor and staging. Fortunately, there are a number of eco-friendly home staging ideas that anyone can implement, and that won’t break the bank. 5 Ways to Go Green 1. Go green … literally. The simplest way to avoid manmade home décor items is to use natural elements instead. Place a cluster of potted succulents on the coffee table. Display a bowl of lemons and oranges on the kitchen counter. Add a lush potted tree to that empty corner in the dining room. Such natural elements easily blend into any décor. 2. Use recycled materials. Choose decorative fabrics, such as for pillows and curtains, that are made from vintage, upcycled materials. Another option is looking for eco-friendly organic hemp, linen, and cotton fabrics dyed with soy-based inks. 3. Paint green – in any color. When choosing paint, look for low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints. No only do the carbon-containing chemicals evaporate, but you’ll also notice little to no paint odor. 4. Add some glass. Glass is highly recyclable, so it’s the perfect choice for green decorating. From a display of vintage glass bottles in the kitchen to some cool glass lamps in the bedroom, a...Jul 2, 2019
The Low-Risk Way to Get Started in Real Estate Investing
Does the idea of real estate investing intrigue you, but the risk scares you? If so, you’re not alone. While many people say they’d love to get started in real estate investing, the stories of bad tenants and vacant properties deter them. The good news is that there is a simple way to get started in investment properties. It’s called “House Hacking,” and it’s very easy and low risk. House Hacking is when you own a multi-unit residential property as your primary residence. You live in one of the units, and you rent out the others. The premise of House Hacking is that the rent your tenants pay covers all the housing expenses for the entire dwelling. This then enables you to divert your money to other real estate investment opportunities. On a smaller scale, House Hacking can be when you have a small apartment over your garage that you rent out. While the rent from the apartment probably won’t cover your entire housing expense, it sure helps and gives you some great landlord experience. The only real limitation to House Hacking is that the multi-unit property needs to be a duplex, triplex, or quadplex. Anything with five or more units is considering commercial property and you’d no longer quality for a residential mortgage. If you don’t want to buy a duplex or triplex, but if you have an apartment over your garage and a finished in-law’s apartment in your basement, you can still rent those two units out and explore House Hacking. Is House Hacking fo...Jun 18, 2019
The Pros and Cons of Down Payment Assistance Programs
Saving a down payment for a home is a big financial commitment. This is especially true if your goal is to save 20% of the purchase price. As such, many homebuyers choose to investigate a down payment assistance program. These are typically grant and government funding options that assist homebuyers who meet certain criteria with their down payment. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation circulating about down payment assistance programs. One of the most common misconceptions is that only first-time homebuyers can qualify for down payment assistance. While it’s true that the majority of the programs have that as a stipulation (approximately 63%), that still leaves quite a few without that criteria. Additionally, most programs use the HUD definition of a first-time homebuyer. According to HUD, this is someone who has not owned a home for the past three years. So, if you owned a home at one time but have been renting for the past three or more years, you are technically considered a first-time homebuyer again. In order to know if a down payment assistance program is something you should investigate, let’s look at some of the pros and cons. Pros: There are definitely some benefits to down payment assistance programs. The most obvious is that it can enable you to take out a smaller mortgage. Additionally, if you qualify for 20% or more in down payment funding, you’ll be able to avoid private mortgage insurance. And, qualifying for down payment assistance ...Jun 4, 2019
Enjoy the Sweet Life at The Model Bakery in Napa Valley
Low-carb and no carb diets may be the rage these days, but when you walk into The Model Bakery in Napa Valley, you simply have to indulge. This once hidden gem is one of our favorite spots to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy some pastries with family, friends, and clients. As with most food establishments in Napa Valley, The Model Bakery isn’t typical. Sure, they have the usual bakery fare of cookies, croissants, breads, and breakfast/lunch sandwiches. But they’re known for something a little more obscure: the English Muffin. In fact, their English Muffins are so good that Oprah Winfrey said her biggest luxury is flying in the English Muffins from The Model Bakery in Napa Valley. (Oprah even put their English Muffins on her Favorite Things List for 2016 and 2017). These delicious yet humble muffins were also featured in a Food Network episode of The Best Thing I Ever Ate. The TV top chefs claimed that it was what every English Muffin truly yearns to be. (Have you noticed how so many Napa Valley eateries are featured on television or made famous by celebrities?) A Napa Valley Staple What’s even more amazing is that The Model Bakery in Napa Valley has been here for over 90 years! it all began at the flagship Main Street location in St. Helena. In 2008 they branched out to the Oxbow Public Market in Napa. Most recently they opened what they call their Mini Model location in Yountville. For the past 30 years The Model Bakery has been owned and operated by a mother-daught...May 21, 2019
Tips for Choosing the Best Paint Color to Stage Your Home
What’s the quickest and easiest way to update your home’s design or better stage your home? A quick coat of paint! In fact, new paint color is one the most common staging suggestions we make for home sellers. A fresh of coat paint instantly livens up a home, makes it feel fresh and new, and shows buyers that you care about the property. Before you run to the paint store and pick a color, consider these tips for choosing the best paint to stage your home. 1. Narrow your choices. Go to any paint store and you’ll see a wall of paint colors to choose from. It can be overwhelming, even to experienced home designers. For staging purposes, look for the muted or neutral curated color palettes (colors that are already grouped together as complementary) rather than browse all the individual color samples. Then, pick just one light and neutral color, such as beige, and only look at the palettes in the beige category. This narrowing approach can help you feel less overwhelmed. 2. Sample first. Rather than immediately purchase a few gallons of the color, get a small sample size jar of the color first. Or, if the store offers peel and stick color samples, get those first. Paint a small area of the room and let the paint dry. Does the color look how you imagined it would? If not, try a different sample. Also, shine a light on where you painted, or let the sun shine on the spot. How does the paint look in different light? Once you’re satisfied that you made the right choice, t...May 7, 2019
Successful Real Estate Investing – It’s All About Mindset
If you want long-term financial stability, real estate investing is a great path to get there. And it’s not just real estate agents who say that. According to Forbes Magazine, “There are many ways to build wealth in America, but real estate [investing] might be the safest, steadiest, and simplest way to do so.” Buying properties and renting them out gives you regular cash flow in the short-term, and the potential for big profits when you sell in the long-term. Of course, to be successful in real estate investing and as a landlord, you need the proper mindset. As with anything in life, your mindset plays a big part in how effective you are. Here are the top 3 mindsets successful real estate investors have mastered. 1. The Enforcer Mindset – You have a lease for a reason. Enforce it. As soon as you give a little leeway, your tenant will want more. Be strict on due dates, rules, and other items stipulated in your lease. Otherwise you risk late payments and big headaches down the road. 2. The Fixer Mindset – In order to keep your rental properties in tip-top shape, you need to schedule regular maintenance, even if you feel that maintenance is not needed. Perform regular inspections to safeguard everything is working properly. Regular maintenance ensures you limit those middle-of-the-night (and expensive) emergency repair calls. 3. The Relationship Mindset – Successful real estate investing is about relationships. The better your relationship with your tenan...Apr 30, 2019
Is a Home Inspection Required for a Mortgage Approval?
When you’re buying a home and going through the mortgage approval process, there are many things you must do; but is getting a home inspection one of them? The short answer is “no.” Typically, your mortgage approval is not contingent upon a successful home inspection. Rather than a home inspection, your lender will require a home appraisal. Home Inspection versus Home Appraisal – What’s the Difference? A home inspection focuses on the condition of the property and all of the installed systems. It helps buyers identify any potential health and safety issues in the home. A home appraisal focuses on determining the current market value of the house. The appraiser will use recent sales data in the local area, along with other tools, to figure out how much the property is worth in the current market. In short, a home inspection protects the buyer. A home appraisal protects the lender. Since the home is technically the collateral used for the loan, your lender wants to make sure the property is worth what you’re paying for it. Does this mean there’s no point in getting your home inspected? Of course not! Your home is probably one of the most expensive things you’ll ever buy. You want peace of mind knowing that you made a good decision and bought a home that’s structurally sound. Having a professional inspect your home provides exactly that. Should the home inspection reveal defects that you feel are too much to take on, you have the option to change ...Apr 23, 2019
Summer in Napa Valley – The Perfect Vacation Spot
If you’re trying to plan the perfect family summer vacation, then look no further than Napa Valley. Even if you already live in Napa Valley, you can do a staycation this year and reconnect with what makes our area so perfect. Considered the prime tourist season, summer is when Napa Valley truly comes alive. The chance of rain this time of year is small. And on average, daily highs are in the upper 70s to 80s, making it ideal weather for outdoor activities. During the summer months, the vineyards are in full, green growth. Because the days are longer, you’ll have plenty of time for dining alfresco after a day of wine-tasting. Many wineries even host summer festivals, and it's the perfect time of year for a winery picnic. Festivals and Family Fun When we say there’s lots to do in Napa Valley during the summer, we mean it. Browse any local guide and you’ll find daily activities to engage in and numerous festivals, concerts, and celebrations taking place each month. No matter when you plan your trip, your calendar will be full. While there are too many summer festivals to name them all, one of our favorite (and one of the biggest) is Festival Napa Valley. Dubbed “The 10 Best Days of Summer,” this festival presents world class performances staged in iconic Napa Valley venues. More than 200 artists, wineries, resorts, theaters, restaurants, chefs, and vintners participate each year. If your main reason for visiting Napa Valley in the summer is be...Apr 16, 2019
Stage the Perfect Master Bedroom Retreat
Having a master bedroom retreat is a key selling point for any home. When buyers tour your home, you want them to see your home as a relaxing oasis, free from the stresses of daily life. No room can help convey that feeling like the master bedroom can. That’s why staging a relaxing master bedroom retreat is so important. Here are five ways to help stage a master bedroom retreat that will delight buyers. 1. Paint the walls a soft, neutral color. By simply changing the wall color you can change the entire feel of a room. To create that master bedroom retreat feel, choose light and airy colors like soft whites, beiges, soft grays, pale blues, and muted greens. A satin finish is easy-care and also picks up natural light. 2. If you have a view, show it off. Heavy drapes can make a room feel dark and uninviting. Instead, opt for light sheers that let in light. And if you have a nice view from the master, keep the windows clean and unobstructed so buyers can enjoy the scenery. 3. Create a sitting area. If space is limited, you can add a comfortable chair and small side table to create a cozy spot for reading or drinking the morning coffee. If you have a spacious master bedroom, consider adding a second chair or even a loveseat to make a conversation area. 4. Remove clutter. Don’t fill every wall and surface. Give the eyes a chance to rest. Think of what a posh hotel room looks like. The décor is elegant yet simple. Too much clutter can evoke a stressful or chaotic fe...Apr 9, 2019
What NOT to do When Applying for a Mortgage
When you’re applying for a mortgage, it’s easy to find lists of action steps to take. You check your credit, get your financial papers in order, and save as much money as possible for your down payment. But did you know there are some common things you should never do when applying for a mortgage – things that could potentially cause you to lose your mortgage mid-application? Here are some of the top things to avoid when applying for a mortgage. 1. Don’t make any big purchases. Hold off on buying that new car or boat until after your loan has closed. Even if you feel comfortable with all the new payments, your mortgage lender may determine that you are overextending yourself. 2. Don’t apply for new credit. It’ll lower your credit score. Keep your credit report as stable as possible. Your debt-to-income ratio is a big factor in your lender’s decision. Keep this percentage stable by not taking on new credit. 3. Don’t co-sign any loans. Co-signing a loan for a family member makes you liable for the debt if the main borrower defaults. These co-signed loans act just like a new credit inquiry for you. 4. Don’t miss payments. Your goal is to show your mortgage lender that you are a good risk for them. Therefore, make every effort to ensure you pay everything on time. 5. Don’t make big life changes. When applying for a mortgage, keep your life as stable as possible. Don’t start a new career with a new employer, start your self-employment venture, o...Apr 2, 2019
Embrace the Napa Valley Lifestyle at Oxbow Public Market
When it comes to experiencing the Napa Valley lifestyle, one of the top things that comes to mind is the Oxbow Public Market. Situated in the Oxbow District of Napa and overlooking the Napa River, Oxbow Public Market spans 40,000 square feet and features 22 different merchants. It really is the community gathering place for great food and wine. What we love about the Oxbow Public Market is the diversity of what you can find there. From meats and cheeses, to organic produce and wine, to fresh baked goods and olive oil, you’re sure to find something for everyone. Realize, though, that Oxbow Public Market is so much more than just a farmer’s market. World class chefs are there to prepare a variety of cuisines, including fresh seafood, Mexican, Italian, and just about anything else you’re craving. One of our favorite things to do is enjoy some local wine as we sit on the scenic outdoor deck and take in the views of the Napa River. When our friends and family come to town and want to experience the Napa Valley lifestyle, this is the first place we take them. Here are a few our best tips for visiting Oxbow Public Market: Walk around the entire market before you’re hungry. Get a feel for everything there is before committing. Bring a cooler. Chances are you’re going to find a lot of great food that you’ll want to bring home. Check out the various Happy Hour specials. Oxbow Public Market is open 7 days a week. Each vendor has their own Happy Hour days, t...Mar 26, 2019
Create an Outdoor Living Room
To make your home appeal to more buyers, consider creating an outdoor living room. Why? One thing home buyers like is ample living space, both inside and out. And since Napa Valley has a year-round moderate climate, an outdoor living room is something you can use the majority of the year. Realize, though, that creating an outdoor living room involves more than just setting up some patio furniture. Here are some tips to make an idyllic Napa Valley outdoor space that will “wow” potential buyers. To Make a Great Outdoor Living Room... Start with the foundation – Your outdoor living room should have a defined area. If you have a patio, deck, porch, or even gazebo, your flooring is already done. If not and you don’t want to build or install one, consider defining the space with concrete pavers, stone, or gravel. Make it shady – No one wants to sit in the blazing sun. So if you don’t have natural shade from trees, install an awning, retractable shade, or use a large patio umbrella. Furnish it tastefully – Your outdoor furniture should be comfortable and weather resistant. Seating and tables are the key essentials. As your budget allows, you can add a grill, outdoor sink and refrigerator, a bar, and a fire pit. Decorations go a long way – Make the area interesting with plants and trees, statues, outdoor art pieces, and water features. Stick with one theme or color palette, just as you would with an indoor area. Light it up – In order to enjoy y...Mar 19, 2019
Top 3 Things A First-Time Home Buyer Should Know
At The Pujals Team, we love working with a first-time home buyer. It’s exciting to help someone fulfill one of their life goals. Home ownership is a big undertaking and a giant step for most, which is why we enjoy giving advice and helping people through the process. If you’re a first-time home buyer, here are three key pieces of advice you need to know before you start your home search. 1. Be Ready to Buy Looking at houses is certainly fun. And as a first-time home buyer, you should definitely look at a lot of homes. After all, that’s the only way you’ll discover what you like and don’t like in a home. Touring homes in different areas also helps you understand how far your money can go in various neighborhoods. When you secure the services of a buyer’s agent, though, you should be ready to buy. That home you fall in love with today may be sold by tomorrow. So be ready to act. 2. Know Your Budget If you’re working with a buyer’s agent, you should already have your lender’s pre-approval in hand. Remember, though, that just because you got approved for a certain amount doesn’t mean you have to spend that much on a home. Take into account all the costs of home ownership, as well as what money you need to live comfortably. The last thing you want is to feel financially strapped each month. 3. Don’t Talk to the Listing Agent The listing agent is certainly a nice person. However, you hired a buyer’s agent to represent you, and the seller hired a lis...Mar 12, 2019
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Listing Agent
When it’s time to sell your home, you need to hire a listing agent who will work hard to ensure you get the most money for your home. After all, your home is likely one of your largest assets. Therefore, you want to hire someone you can trust and who can deliver the results you deserve. Before you sign with any listing agent, make sure you ask these 3 key questions. 1. How do you ensure my home is priced properly? While you want top dollar, if your listing agent advises you to over-price your home, it could sit on the market for months. When you price your home correctly from the beginning, you often get multiple offers on the same day, which can then drive up the sales price. Your listing agent should have the know-how, research tools, and expertise that comes from experience to help you come up with the best listing price. 2. How will you market my home? Ideally, your listing agent should take a multi-faceted approach to marketing your home. This can include such things as open houses, online exposure via home finding sites and social media, and Realtor tours, just to name a few. Your listing agent should also be able to offer staging advice, as staging is a vital aspect of marketing. 3. How often will we be in communication? You want a listing agent who communicates often. This includes getting feedback after showings, providing regular marketing updates, and sharing comments from potential buyers and other real estate agents, Set your communication expectation...Mar 5, 2019
What are the Closing Costs for Home Buyers?
When many people buy a home, especially first-time home buyers, they are often surprised at the amount of money they spend on closing costs. In fact, the average closing costs percentage is about 2% to 5% of the purchase price, but 3% to 6% is certainly not uncommon. So yes, those costs can certainly add up quickly. Here are the typical closing costs buyers are responsible for. Since exact fees vary widely based on location and lender requirements, talk to your mortgage banker for specific details. Lender Related Closing Costs Credit Report Private Mortgage Insurance: If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, lenders require this insurance to protect their interest in the home. Initial Interest: This covers the interest from the date you close until the end of the month. Document Preparation Fee Lender’s Title Insurance Policy: This is a title insurance policy that protects the lender’s mortgage interest in the property. Wire Transfer Fees: Most lenders fund the transaction via a wire transfer versus a check. Other Closing Costs Potentially Required by Lenders Home Appraisal Homeowner’s Insurance: Lenders and insurance companies require payment of the first year’s homeowner’s insurance to protect against natural and manmade disasters. Flood Zone Certification Title Related Closing Costs Homeowner’s Title Insurance Policy: This protects your interest in the real estate from claims of ownership or othe...Feb 26, 2019
What You Need to Know About the 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange
If you’re a real estate investor, you’ve probably heard about the 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange. But you may have questions about how it works. We at The Pujals Team work with a lot of real estate investors, and we find that many are unsure of the details surrounding the 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange. So, let’s shed some light on this topic. Realize that we are not accountants nor attorneys; therefore, our goal is to give you a quick overview of what the 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange is. For specific advice, always consult with your tax attorney or accountant. In the simplest terms, a 1031 Tax-Deferred Exchange is a transaction that allows you to exchange one investment property for another by deferring the tax consequence of a sale. The transaction is authorized by the IRS Code 1031, hence the name. One important point for clarification is that the exchange can only apply for investment property. That means you must sell one investment property and buy another. You cannot use the exchange to sell your primary residence and buy an investment property. Additionally, you can’t sell an investment property and purchase a primary home. There are also some strict timelines to keep in mind. Once you sell your investment property, you have 45 days to identify another property of equal or greater value. Then, you have 180 days from the day you sold your property to acquire the new one. Of course, as with any tax code, there are many factors to consider. That’s why we sugg...Feb 19, 2019
Napa Valley is the Best Place to Live
California is a great state with many famous cities, but the best region in The Golden State (in our opinion) is Napa Valley. The Pujals family has long and strong roots in this area, so we’ve seen our sleepy little part of Northern California grow to the vibrant area it is today. For any area, growth brings change, and Napa Valley is no different. But the changes this area has had over the years have made Napa Valley stronger and definitely more attractive to newcomers. The Facts about Napa Valley If you’re looking to relocate to the area, you’ll find a strong economy waiting for you. Did you know that the median household income in Napa Valley is approximately $20,000 higher than the national average? To top it off, our unemployment rate is currently at a 17-year low, at only 3.4%. That’s great for newcomers. And if you think the area is dominated by retired people drinking wine all day, think again. We’re actually a very young part of the country, with an average age of 37. But one of our favorite things of living here is all the recreational activities available. Because of the year-round temperate climate, you can be outside comfortably in every season. Hiking and biking trails abound for outdoor lovers. And for those who prefer indoor activities, you’ll find numerous art galleries, spas, museums, and wineries to visit. Is Napa Valley Really the Best Place to Live? YES! Our family can’t imagine living anywhere else than Napa Valley, and we look...Feb 12, 2019
Top 3 Mistakes Every Real Estate Investor Should Avoid
Many people dream about being a real estate investor. After all, the popular TV shows make it look so easy. Just buy an outdated property for cheap, fix it up quickly, and either sell it or rent it for a handsome profit. Unfortunately, reality isn’t always that simple. Before you dive into the role of real estate investor, be mindful of the top mistakes that could hinder your success. Mistake #1: Buying with Emotion Rather than Logic Buying a home because it’s “cute” or reminds you of the home you grew up in isn’t what seasoned real estate investors do. Instead, they run the numbers of the property. At the bare minimum, you’ll want to estimate mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, upfront repair costs, ongoing maintenance costs, and other expenses and compare them to the estimated market rent or sale price you’ll receive for the property. When you approach a home from a numbers point of view and leave emotion aside, you’ll increase your chances of success. Mistake #2: Taking the Wrong Advice Everyone has an opinion. This is true for real estate investing too. When people find out what you’re doing, they’ll be eager to give you advice. However, when it comes to taking advice from people who have never invested in real estate before, take their words of wisdom with a grain of salt. A better idea is to get advice from people who understand what it takes to be a successful real estate investor, such as other investors or even your real estate agent. Mi...Feb 5, 2019
Home Buying Etiquette: 4 Things to Avoid on a Property Tour
For most home buyers, the most exciting and fun part of the experience is going on a property tour. This is when you get to imagine yourself in the home, explore new neighborhoods, and maybe even get some decorating ideas. But before you go walking through other people’s homes, be aware of some property tour etiquette tips. 1. Don’t Bring an Entourage – Of course, anyone who will be living in the home should attend the property tour. You may even opt to bring one close friend to help you. However, avoid bringing everyone in your extended family or all the members of your book club with you. Having too many people with you will distract you and cause unnecessary wear on the property. 2. Don’t Bring in Food and Beverages – Most sellers meticulously clean, prep, and stage their home when it’s for sale. The last thing you want is to be the person who spills coffee on the white carpet or whose child wipes their chocolate smeared hands on the walls. No matter how careful you are when eating or drinking, leave the food and beverages in the car. 3. Don’t Live Stream Your Tour – While it’s perfectly fine to take a few photos so you can remember the features of each house you view, don’t live stream your property tour or post any pictures you take publicly on social media. Remember, this isn’t your house (yet!), and you may be violating the privacy and security of the current homeowner. Wait until the home is yours to post photos and videos. 4. Don’t...Jan 29, 2019
Applying for a Mortgage? Here’s Your Document Checklist
Applying for a mortgage requires a lot of paperwork and documentation. However, if you come to your lender with all the documents they are likely to need, you can make the mortgage application process faster and less stressful. Here is a handy checklist of the most common documents you’ll need to have ready. Before you apply for a mortgage, gather the following documents: General: Driver’s Licenses for all applicants Social Security Card (only on FHA and VA) Resident Alien Card or VISA – when applicable Income: Most recent 30 days of pay stubs with year-to-date totals W-2 forms and/or 1099s (past 2 years) Verification of other income such as social security (provide award letter for current year), alimony, or child support (provide divorce decree) Most current 2 years tax returns (Federal only including all schedules) Partnerships, S-Corp, and/or Corporate Federal returns for the previous 2 years including all schedules and K1s If you have rental property income: Copies of all lease/rental agreements Assets: Most recent 2 months (60 days) actual bank statements. Include all pages for both checking and savings accounts. Most recent 2 months retirement and investment account statements. Include all pages. Source of any non-direct deposit(s) that are greater than 50% of your monthly income. Proof of where the earnest money funds will originate. Lenders need proof that the earnest money has cleared...Jan 22, 2019
Don’t Downsize Your Home – Right Size Your Life!
While many people choose to upsize their home, a good number contact us because it’s time to downsize. Downsizing from a large home to a smaller one is a fact of life for many people, especially older adults and empty-nesters. And making this transition can trigger many emotions, including sadness, grief, stress, or anxiety A much more positive way to look at downsizing is to think of it as “right sizing.” When you’re right sizing, you’re making a positive change in your life. Whether you’re changing your relationships, your financial situation, your personal appearance, or even your home, making a decision to right size some aspect of your life means you are putting yourself and your needs first. It’s about honoring what’s best for you so you can live your best life. To adopt this right sizing mindset when it's time to downsize, you simply need to focus on the many benefits of moving to a smaller or different type of space. How to Reframe the Need to Downsize First, if you’re downsizing from a two-story home to a one-story home for health or age-related reasons, realize that this smaller, one-level environment will be much safer for you. Did you know that falling down the stairs is the leading cause of injury among older adults? Removing that risk from your environment will give you and your family great peace of mind. Second, downsizing into a condo, townhome, or similar attached living kind of space will reduce the amount of yard work and e...Jan 15, 2019
Overcoming an Emotional Attachment to an Investment Property
Having an emotional attachment to a home is completely normal, especially if you’ve lived in the home for many years or invested a lot of sweat equity into making it your own. But having an emotional attachment to an investment property will usually cause more headaches than it’s worth. If you’re like the majority of property investors, you’re buying a rental property to build your wealth and future financial security. Any emotional attachment to a property will only distract you from making sound investment decisions. It will cloud your judgement over such things as rent rates, when to sell the property, and the amount of money to invest in upgrades. So, what should you do if you realize you have an emotional attachment to an investment property? Make Your Investment Property Work for You! Remember that smart real estate investing is all about the numbers. Do your numbers add up? All the properties in your real estate investment portfolio should be achieving a capitalization rate (cap rate) of between 4% and 10%. See this past blog post for more about cap rates. In other words, you need to apply the same investment logic to your rental properties that you do for your other retirement investments. For example, if a fund in your IRA was under-performing, you’d quickly sell it. You wouldn’t hold onto it as it lost you money because it was the “first fund you ever bought” or you “liked the name” of it. That would be silly and disastrous. That sa...Jan 8, 2019
Is a Mortgage Broker Your Best Choice?
When we work with buyers, one of the most common questions they ask is, “Who is the best mortgage broker to work with?” Our clients are usually surprised to hear that a mortgage broker may not be their best option. So, who do we recommend? A mortgage banker. If you’re not sure of the difference between a mortgage broker and a mortgage banker, you’re not alone. Most people use the terms “mortgage broker” and “mortgage banker” interchangeably. In reality, they are two very different things. Mortgage Broker A mortgage broker deals with many different wholesale lenders. The broker is an independent operator and can be a one-person office or a large organization with different loan agents acting under the one broker’s license, much like how a real estate office works. Mortgage brokers do not have affiliation with any one company. As a result, they are at the whim of the individual wholesale lenders guidelines, overlays, timeframes, and underwriters. Often, they don’t have strong relationships with underwriters, and communication is not encouraged. Mortgage Banker A mortgage banker is also called a correspondent lender. Mortgage bankers are independent offices working under a corporate umbrella where they underwrite and fund/close their loans in their own name. They retain the servicing of the loans or they sell the servicing after closing. Mortgage bankers often have deep relationships with their underwriters, who are dedicated to the team at the mortg...Jan 1, 2019
Maximize Your Home’s Curb Appeal to Get Top Dollar
If you’re selling your home, you likely know how important home staging is. But just as you stage the interior of your home, you also need to stage the exterior. That’s called curb appeal, and it’s vital to ensuring that you get top dollar when selling your home. Why is curb appeal so important? Think about it. The exterior of your home is the first and last thing potential buyers will see. No matter how beautiful your home’s interior is, the exterior will be the last picture they have in their mind. That’s why you need to pay attention to your home’s curb appeal. While you may not be able to do big ticket items, like repaint your house or put on a new roof, there are many small things you can do that make a big impact. Easy Curb Appeal Ideas 1. Clear the clutter. If your front porch is overcrowded with potted plants and furniture, thin it out. Show off the space with a simple seating area and one or two plants. The same goes for your front yard. Remove lawn décor, kids’ toys, and anything else that detracts from the house itself. 2. Add some color. Bright colors attract the eye. So plant some colorful flowers around the mailbox or near the entry. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider painting the front door a vibrant red, blue, or other color that compliments your house. 3. Power wash the walkway. Give the path leading to your home a bath. This will make your home feel inviting and clean. 4. Change out the front door hardware and exterio...Dec 25, 2018
Should You Get an Online Mortgage?
It seems that everything is online these days, from online shopping and food delivery to an online mortgage and doctor visit. This begs the question: Is online really better, especially for your mortgage needs? Chances are you’ve seen numerous ads for an “easier” and “faster” way to get your mortgage. Just press a button and in a few moments you can have a mortgage approval in your hands. This certainly seems great for consumers. However, too often we’ve seen homeowners end up with a mortgage that isn’t the best fit for their needs. That’s why we always recommend you work with an experienced mortgage banker. Mortgage Banker Versus an Online Mortgage Mortgage bankers are skilled at helping you make sure you have not just any old mortgage, but the best mortgage for your unique situation. Rather than place you in a one-size-fits-all option, mortgage bankers analyze your situation and look at both your long-term and short-term goals. Armed with this knowledge, they can help you secure the right mortgage that enables you to reach your financial goals. The fact is that no online mortgage site can give you this type of professional advice. Additionally, mortgage bankers can usually give you superior customer service compared to an online mortgage site. Think about your last customer service call to a large company. Assuming you made it through the phone maze and actually got to a live person, you probably had to re-explain your situation to each person you s...Dec 18, 2018
Sell Your Home for Top Dollar
You want to sell your home for top dollar. If you’re like most home sellers, you’ve probably read many articles or watched videos about the importance of painting, decluttering, and staging your home. That’s all great information to sell your home quickly and for the highest price. But there’s one more vital piece of advice you need to heed that will help you get your home market-ready. And it’s something few people consider doing. TIP: Before you list your home, ask for an outside opinion of what needs to be updated, fixed, or changed in your home. That’s the best way to sell your home for the most money. Often, when you’re emotionally invested in something, like your family home, it’s easy to not see those things that could hinder a sale. After all, you may love the bright walls, the flowery wallpaper, or the creative way you’re using the dining room as an office. But remember that not everyone will see things as you do. As a result of not knowing what outsiders see as potential issues, you may end up working haphazardly or guessing at what you should update or fix. Obviously, this is not the best strategy. Instead, ask your Realtor or a trusted friend what improvements could be made to help you sell your home. Be open to the feedback you receive. Yes, it can be difficult to hear that the wall where you measured your kids’ heights over the years should be painted over, or that your prized movie memorabilia collection should be put in storage. Bu...Dec 11, 2018
Don’t Overpay for Your New Home
You work hard for your money, so you definitely don’t want to overpay when you’re buying a new home. In fact, the number one fear we hear from home buyers, especially first-time buyers, is that they might overpay for their new home. Before you put in an offer on any home, make sure you’re following these three key points: 1. First, make sure you are working with your own real estate agent who is representing you as a buyer. While it may seem convenient to work directly with the seller’s Realtor, realize that the seller’s agent is already contracted to work for the seller, not the buyer. Get your own agent to work 100% for you. This alone can help ensure you don’t overpay for your new home. 2. Next, use multiple tools to determine a home’s value. In addition to the comparable sales reports your agent will research for you, do your own research on home values. When you do, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Find homes in your exact neighborhood that are similar in size, age, number of rooms, and extra features. Also, look at sold listings, not active listings. And if you use online home value estimators, realize that they are not always accurate. Therefore, use them as loose guidelines only and don’t get fixated on one high or low number. 3. Finally, stay in control of your emotions. Buying a home is an exciting and an emotional experience. So it’s easy to get sucked into a bidding war. Set your price limit for the home and be prepared t...Dec 4, 2018
Manage Your Expectations When Selling Your Home
Selling your home can be stressful. You may feel anxious, angry, or even sad at times. Physical manifestations of this stress may appear as fatigue, snapping at others for no reason, or headaches. No matter how stress affects you, it’s never enjoyable. However, you can take steps to manage this stress before it occurs, which will help you have a more enjoyable home sale. One of the ways to keep home selling stress under control is to manage your expectations about the sale. First, let’s be clear: You should definitely have goals and expectations when selling your home. Those are obviously very important for a successful sale. The key is to make sure your goals and expectations are realistic, based on the market conditions. One thing to consider is to focus on price ranges, rather than specific numbers. For example, rather than get fixated on a final selling price, think of an acceptable range that enables you to meet your goals. Sometimes people get so focused on a singular sales price that being off that number by even a few hundred dollars seems like failure to them and causes unnecessary stress. To determine your range, look at other homes that have sold in your area in the past 30 days. Make sure you’re looking at sold listings, not active listings. Sold listings tell you what buyers are willing to pay in your area, while active listings, especially those that have been on the market for weeks or even months, tell you what the seller hopes to get, not neces...Nov 27, 2018
Why You Should Visit Napa Valley in the Winter
When most people think of visiting Napa Valley, they try to plan their trip for the summer or spring—the peak tourist season. But did you know that winter is actually a great time to visit too? Considered the “low season” due to low tourism numbers, January through March offer much to see and experience in our beautiful valley. Even though winter tends to be cool and rainy, keep in mind that this is California’s version of cool weather, not Minnesota’s. Daytime highs tend to range in the mid-50s, and rain falls approximately 8 days out of the month. So compared to what much of the country experiences during winter, Napa’s weather is still very comfortable. Things to Do in Winter in Napa Valley While the grapes have already been harvested and the vineyards look bare, the wineries are still open. This time of year the tasting rooms are seldom crowded, and their staffs are able to spend ample time with each visitor. If you like being showered with attention and treated like royalty, this is the perfect season to go. If you’re a foodie, you’re in luck. January is California Restaurant Month. And Napa Valley sets aside one week each winter for Napa Valley Restaurant Week. This winter it takes place the week of January 20th, 2019. It’s the perfect time for guests to experience the area’s legendary food and wine culture. During the week, many restaurants offer multi-course prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner. You can find a list of participating restaura...Nov 20, 2018
Understanding the Cap Rate When Buying Investment Real Estate
Smart real estate investors use a variety of financial tools to guide their buying decision—one of which is the capitalization rate, or cap rate. What is a cap rate? In simple terms, the cap rate shows the annual return expected on an investment. In mathematical terms, it is the ratio of Net Operating Income (NOI) to property asset value. For example, if a property recently sold for $1,000,000 and had an NOI of $100,000, then the cap rate would be $100,000 divided by $1,000,000, or 10%. For any long-term real estate investor, the primary financial driver guiding your buying decisions should be the annual income the property will generate. If you’re a property flipper, the cap rate may not concern you. However, if you’re buying properties to rent them out long-term, then the capitalization rate is important to you. How to Calculate a Property’s Cap Rate Determining a property’s capitalization rate is actually quite easy. Here are the four steps: Determine the annual rent you can expect from the property. If the property is already rented, this is easy to calculate. Otherwise, do some research. Estimate the annual expenses of owning the property. This will include taxes, insurance, utilities you will pay on an ongoing basis, projected vacancy costs, and repair costs. Note that the cap rate does NOT include any mortgage expenses. Calculate your annual net operating income (NOI). This is the annual rent minus the annual expenses. Cal...Nov 13, 2018
What It’s Really Like to Live and Work in Napa Valley
Napa Valley may be known as a premier tourist destination; however, it’s also an ideal place to live and work. Did you know that every year approximately 3 million people visit the area? Many wonder about making Napa Valley their permanent home. If you’re thinking about making Napa Valley your new home, but are unsure of the lifestyle or employment options, here are some things you should know about living and working in our wonderful community. 1. Napa Valley has a great economy. In fact, the 2018 Forbes Magazine’s list of “Best Places for Business and Careers” ranked Napa Valley as #65 in the country. It also ranked us #21 for Job Growth. While the major industries noted were wine and tourism, Napa Valley’s economy goes way beyond that. Our major employers are also in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Our unemployment rate is currently at an all-time low, so many people find it a great time to lay down roots in the area. 2. Napa Valley is about much more than wine. You may have heard that we have a booming wine industry. But we also have great breweries, a chocolate factory (which, by the way, makes microbrew beer brittle and wine truffles), and we have not just great chefs, but an actual Iron Chef. Check out Morimoto Napa for a truly memorable dining experience. 3. We are a health-conscious place to live. Napa county is often ranked as one of the healthiest places to live. Because we have great weather year-round, it’s easy to stay active her...Nov 6, 2018
Get Started in the Napa Valley Vacation Rental Market
Instead of selling your home and buying a new one, perhaps you’ve considered keeping it as an investment and putting your home on the vacation rental market. Or, if you currently have traditional rental properties, maybe you’ve thought about converting one or more of them into short-term vacation rental properties. With short-term vacation rental sites like Airbnb and VRBO, venturing into the vacation rental market is easier than ever. And if you do it correctly, it can be a very lucrative venture. But before you dive in and incorporate vacation properties into your real estate portfolio, consider the following points. Keys to Vacation Rental Success 1. Get the proper permits. Depending on what city or town your home is in, you may need a permit to legally put your property on the vacation rental You may even find out that your town does not allow vacation rentals. Go to the website of your city to find out. While it’s tempting to skirt around the laws and plead ignorance later, that’s not a good strategy. Always do things the legal way so you have fewer headaches later. 2. Get professionals to help you. This means talking to your banker and getting a separate checking account set up for guest payments. Talk with your insurance agent to make sure your coverage applies for vacation rentals. Get your attorney involved to draft a rental agreement that protects your investment. You may want to also consider hiring a professional home stager to stage your rental, a...Oct 30, 2018
Make the Most of Your Next Open House Visit
Open houses are a staple in the real estate industry. Unfortunately, many home buyers aren’t sure how to approach an open house. If you’re just starting your home search, it’s okay to take a more casual approach to open houses. Go inside, look around, dream a little, and consider the possibilities. Discover what you like and don’t like in a home. After all, you don’t know what the various price points offer unless you look for yourself. However, maybe you’re a bit more serious about your home search and are ready to buy now. If so, then you need to take a more strategic approach to an open house. Why? Quite simply, there’s no guarantee how long any home will stay on the market. This one open house visit may be your only opportunity to view the home before it is no longer available. Therefore, be sure you do the following three things to make the most of your open house visit. 1. Really look at the house. If the house interests you at all, be sure you are taking the time to look at it. Open closet doors, check the ceilings, peek behind furniture, and take measurements. I realize it may feel strange looking through a stranger’s closet or peering behind their shower curtain. But this may be your only time to see the home before you make an offer. Be sure you explore every nook and cranny. 2. Take note of the neighborhood. Loving the neighborhood is just as important as loving the home. As you drive up to the home, look at the other houses. Are they of ...Oct 23, 2018
Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent – What’s the Difference?
When people talk about real estate, they often use the terms “Realtor” and “Real Estate Agent” interchangeably. But the two designations are actually different. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you’re working with the best professional for your needs. First, let’s start with the most common term: Real Estate Agent. A Real Estate Agent is someone who has passed the required real estate classes and licensing exams in the state where they intend to work. This is how most real estate professionals begin their career. All Real Estate Agents must work under a licensed Broker. What is a Broker? A Broker is someone who has taken real estate classes beyond the agent level. They have also passed a broker’s licensing exam. Real Estate Brokers can work as independent agents or have other agents working for them. Agents who have passed the broker exam, but who choose to work under another Broker, are typically called a Real Estate Associate Broker. As you’d expect, the Broker title comes with a lot more responsibility than an agent designation. Brokers are charged with handling the earnest money and depositing and establishing the escrow account. They also oversee the actions of the Real Estate Agents under their supervision. The Facts About a Realtor Finally, a Realtor® is a Real Estate Agent who is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). To become a member of the NAR, a real estate professional must agree to abide by the association's ...Oct 16, 2018
Home Staging Tips for Your Kitchen
When it comes to home staging, it’s important to spend ample time on your kitchen. Staging your kitchen properly can make the difference between selling your home quickly (and for your asking price) or having it linger on the market. The fact is that all buyers want a home with an updated kitchen. Unfortunately, few sellers have the resources or time to do a full kitchen remodel prior to selling. That’s where home staging comes into play. With some creativity and elbow grease, even an older kitchen can look appealing. Following are the key tips for staging your kitchen. 1. Clean everything … and we mean everything! Scrub the counters, cabinets, floors, baseboards, and walls. Polish chrome fixtures and hardware, dust ceiling fans, and replace burned-out light bulbs, even over the stove. Scrub or replace the stove drip pans. Clean inside the stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator. In other words, make the kitchen sparkle like it never has before. A thorough cleaning will make any kitchen more appealing to buyers. 2. Clear the countertops. When your countertops are cluttered, your kitchen looks smaller than it really is. Therefore, have no more than two countertop appliances out. Also remove canisters, dishracks, and other knick-knacks. If your kitchen is very small, consider removing all countertop appliances. If you’re still living in the home, this can make cooking inconvenient, but remember that it’s temporary. 3. Display only a few things that make sense....Oct 9, 2018
Know When It’s Time for a Price Reduction
Many sellers have the topic of price reduction on their mind. In fact, one of the most common questions home sellers ask is, “When should I lower the price of my home?” Of course, no one wants to lower their asking price. We all want top dollar for our home. But the fact is that in some cases, lowering the price is necessary. Following are key signs that it may be time for sellers to consider a price reduction. 1. You have very few showings – If your home is new to the market, you should get a flurry of activity the first few weeks of your listing. That’s because people always want to see the newest homes that hit the market. But if you never experienced that initial viewing frenzy, or if you did and now it’s suddenly crickets, it may be an indication that your price is too high. 2. You have many showings, but no offers – Similarly, you may be getting ample showings, but no offers. This could indicate that your photos and description are compelling, but the home and its asking price are not living up to expectations. If you can’t enhance the home with updates or repairs, you may need to re-examine the asking price. 3. You need to move soon – Sometimes you can’t postpone life changes. For example, if you need to move very soon for a job transfer, and can’t afford to carry two mortgages while you wait for an offer, lowering your price may be your best strategy to get out of the home quickly. 4. The market is changing – Market changes can com...Oct 2, 2018
What to Look for When Choosing a Napa Valley Real Estate Agent
When you’re buying a Napa Valley home, you want to work with an experienced Napa Valley real estate agent. You want someone who will work with your best interests in mind, who knows the area well, and who has great negotiation skills. But how do you find this person? Following are questions to ask any potential Napa Valley real estate agent. 1. How many buyers and sellers do you represent per year? Rather than focus on how long someone has been in real estate, find out how many clients they work with each year. Just because someone is a newer agent shouldn’t be a reason to rule them out. If they come from a strong sales background and/or are being mentored by a long-term Napa Valley real estate agent, they can bring many positive attributes to the table. 2. How long have you lived in Napa Valley? If someone has been a real estate agent for 20 years but has lived in Napa Valley for only 1 year, that may be a reason for concern. Ideally your agent will be a long-time resident who knows the area well and has tracked the local market trends over the years. 3. Do you have a team, or do you work alone? While many solo agents are excellent, there’s no denying the power of teamwork. Agents who are part of a team have the benefit of collaboration. They can often give their clients better response times and they usually work together to problem solve. 4. What is your schedule? Ideally you want a full-time real estate agent. If they're not a full-time ...Sep 25, 2018
Buying a Napa Valley Home? You Need a Realtor!
Whether you’re buying your first Napa Valley home or have gone through the home buying process many times, you need a Realtor early in the process rather than later. In fact, anyone who has bought or sold a Napa Valley home will tell you that the real estate market here is very competitive. For home buyers, this means that having a licensed Realtor working for you will make the home buying process much less stressful. It will also increase your chance of getting your dream home. Following are the key benefits of working with a Realtor when searching for your perfect Napa Valley home. 1. Knows the area and can help you locate homes that meet your criteria. Why spend hours scanning online home listings only to learn that the homes you want to see are already sold? Chances are you have better things to do with your time. Instead, you can rely on your Realtor’s breadth of knowledge and have them give you the “short list” of homes that are currently available and that best meet your criteria. 2. Helps you craft the perfect offer. Because the market is so competitive, you may get only one chance to submit your best offer. Multiple offers on a property are common, which means sellers have little motivation to do counteroffers. Your real estate agent can help you structure your offer so it has the highest chance of being accepted. 3. Coordinates the many aspects of the sale for you. Once your offer is accepted, there are multiple people and tasks to coordinate...Sep 18, 2018
Home Staging Tips for Your Living Room
If you want to sell your home fast, your home staging is vital. And while all the rooms in your home are important to buyers, your living room is a focal point that can make or break a sale. This is the room where people relax; chat with friends and family; and watch TV, movies, and the big game. It’s a room that buyers need to “see themselves in.” Here are our top home staging tips for your living room. 1. Keep the walls neutral. Even though you may love bold or bright colors on the walls, buyers prefer to see spaces that are light, airy, and neutral. If your living room walls are painted colors like crimson red or eggplant purple, repaint them to a neutral light color, even if you think it’s boring. Living with boring walls for a few weeks will pay off big later. 2. Remove personal items. Get a jump start on packing and remove all the family photos or other highly personal things, like your collection of rooster statues or your kids’ clay handprints. Also pack up the clutter and knick-knacks, keeping only a few key items to decorate shelves. You want your buyers to focus on the space and not what they perceive as clutter. 3. Show off your windows. Don’t hide your windows behind heavy drapes or drawn blinds. Make sure the windows are clean and unobstructed so the natural light shines in. Buyers prefer spaces that have lots of natural light, as it makes a home feel open and inviting. 4. Make the most of seating. Arrange the furniture so it forms a conve...Sep 11, 2018
How to Combat Disappointment When Buying a Home
While buying a home is definitely an exciting experience, it can also be laced with disappointment. In fact, most home buyers have a story about “the one that got away” … about the one house they fell in love with but didn’t get. Perhaps the sellers took a higher offer, maybe the buyers’ financing fell through, or perhaps the home inspection turned up too many things to fix. No matter the reason, losing what seemed like the perfect home is difficult for many home buyers. Following are some tips for avoiding heartache when buying a home. Timing is everything. If you tour a home and truly believe this is the house for you, then be prepared to act quickly. Have your pre-approval already lined up before you look at homes. In our current seller’s market, there’s simply no time to “wait and see” or “think it over.” Get your offer in quickly before competing offers have time to roll in. Keep your emotions in check. Obsessing over “the one that got away” never works in relationships and it doesn’t work when buying a home No matter how much emotion you feel toward a home, remember that in the end this is a business transaction. So if something doesn’t work out, you need to move on. Ramp up your home search. If the house you want can’t be yours, don’t sit home and pout. Get out there and tour more houses for sale. That’s the surest way to overcome the home buyer blues. And, chances are you’ll find an even better hom...Sep 4, 2018
Tips for Being a Successful Landlord
Renting out your home (aka – being a landlord) is a great way to establish a steady income stream and build long-term wealth. But make no mistake – it is a business endeavor. As such, it takes hard work and determination to do it right and be successful. Whether you’re just starting with one rental property or you have a few condos, houses, or townhomes you rent out, following are some tips for being a successful landlord. Tips for Being a Successful Landlord 1. Know your properties – Be very familiar with every home you own and rent out. Write things down. For example, where is the gas turnoff? The water main? The electrical circuit breaker panel? If you have higher end or smart appliances in the home, how do you operate them? If a tenant has a question, or if there’s a problem you need to address over the phone, being familiar with the home will save you both time and money. 2. Be proactive with maintenance and repairs – Expensive repairs and system replacements can quickly eat away at your rental income. It’s better to be proactive with repairs so they don’t turn into major (and expensive) breakdowns down the road. Reach out to your tenants quarterly to check in on what needs to be repaired, and take care of the issues right away. 3. Have a great team – Being a landlord is stressful. It often involves more work than one person can handle. That’s why you want to assemble a team of experts to help you. Your team can include a property manager to o...Aug 28, 2018
Stress Relief for Home Sellers
If you’re selling your home, you may be yearning for some stress relief. Did you know that selling your home is regarded as one of the most stressful life experiences? In fact, it’s ranked right up there with divorce, bankruptcy, and even the loss of a loved one. If you think about it, it makes sense. After all, no one likes strangers roaming through their home, engaging in contracts and price negotiations, working against deadlines, or even dealing with the whole moving process in general. It’s enough to make even the calmest person feel stressed. To make the home selling process easier and less stressful, keep these stress relief strategies in mind. 1. Remember your “why”: Chances are you’re moving for a reason that is important to you. What is it? Are you needing more space for a growing family? Downsizing so you can travel the world? Embarking on an exciting career in new city? Whatever your reason for selling, keep that “why” firmly in mind as you navigate stressful times. By doing so you’ll be more motivated to stay the course. 2. Lean on your Realtor: Remember that your Realtor has been through hundreds if not thousands of real estate transactions. He or she has “seen it all,” and can probably offer much advice on everything from pricing and negotiations to home staging and interacting with buyers. If you have a good Realtor working for you, there’s no reason for you to ever feel like you’re “in it alone.” Let your Realtor help y...Aug 21, 2018
3 Inexpensive Home Staging Ideas that Yield Big Results
If you’re selling your home, you know that home staging is vital. You want your home to look updated and modern, no matter when it was built or the last time you did renovations. Unfortunately, home staging can often be expensive and time consuming. If you’re short on both cash and time, here are three simple home staging ideas that will give you the most bang for the least amount of money. 1. Change out your wall plates. Those covers that surround your light switches and outlets may seem small and insignificant, yet they can make a big impact on a room. If your home has builder-grade dingy wall plates, or mismatched plates throughout each room, update them now. You can choose something neutral so all the plates in the home match (and thus buy them in bulk), or you can go for a room-by-room color palate or theme. It’s amazing how simple wall plates can pull a room together and give it an updated feel. 2. Pay attention to your lighting. Whether your home feels warm and inviting or cold and unapproachable depends a lot on your home’s lighting. Make sure the lights in each room match. In other words, don’t have “soft white” bulbs in one lamp and “bright white” in another. For home staging, “warm white” or “bright white” bulbs are best because they cast a warm yet neutral glow. Also, make sure you have the appropriate wattage to adequately showcase your home; look for 750 lumens or more. 3. Replace bathroom faucets and fixtures. Bathrooms are a ...Aug 14, 2018
The Top 5 Reasons to Make Napa Valley Your Home
I’ve lived in the Napa Valley area since 1987. In all that time I’ve visited many beautiful and unique parts of the United States, yet I’ve never wanted to call any place other than Napa Valley my home. When people visit this part of Northern California it’s common for them to entertain the idea of living here. While only you can decide if a particular city fits your lifestyle, here are what I consider the top 5 reasons to make Napa Valley your home. 1. A glorious landscape. Because of Napa’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and Sierra Nevada mountains, it has many diverse micro-climates and some of the most diverse soils found on earth. The result: Mother Nature has everything she needs to produce an abundance of flora and fauna. 2. Wine! Thanks to the fertile soil in the area, there are what seem like “a gazillion” wineries for tasting and bottle purchases. No matter what type of wine you prefer, you’re sure to find it here. 3. A foodie’s paradise. Did you know that Napa Valley is a premier foodie destination? Every month you’ll find new flavors and well-known chefs making unique creations. From family friendly options to fine dining, you’ll find something to tickle your palette here. 4. Numerous recreation options. Do you like hiking? Biking? Spa days? Art galleries? Shopping? Whatever you’re into, you’re bound to find it here. And because of the temperate, Mediterranean like climate, you can often enjoy your favorite activities year-...Aug 7, 2018
Pricing Tips to Sell Your House Fast
If you want to sell your house fast, then pricing matters. After all, few people enjoy opening their home to strangers and having it on the market for multiple months. Therefore, when you price your home correctly from the start, you can sell your house fast and experience less stress. Here are some pricing tips to consider: 1. Look at what has recently sold, not what is currently listed. Most people know the importance of looking at comparable listings. However, many sellers do this research by looking at homes that are currently listed for sale. Unfortunately, this is not the best data to rely on. If you want to sell your house fast, a better approach is to look at what has recently sold. Realize that you can list your home for any price you want. But that doesn’t mean a buyer will be willing to pay that. Focusing on what has sold (which offers proof of what price the market will bear) is more important. 2. Listen to your Realtor. If you needed medical advice, who would you trust? A doctor, or your friend who is a teacher? Chances are you’d listen to the doctor. Likewise, when you’re selling your home, who should you defer to for the best advice? Your Realtor, or people who are not in the real estate profession? I hope you’ll trust your Realtor. Assuming you’ve talked with several real estate agents and listed with one you felt was professional and capable, you should rely on their expertise when deciding on a listing price. If you don’t agree with their l...Aug 1, 2018
Why Having a Mortgage Pre-Approval is Essential for Home Buyers
Many home buyers ask, “Do I really need a mortgage pre-approval before I start my home search?” The answer: YES! Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or have purchased multiple homes in the past, before you start your new home search, always get your mortgage pre-approval lined up first. Why? Imagine spending weeks viewing homes. Finally, after an exhaustive search, you find the perfect home that both you and your significant other agree on. Your imagination is going wild with how you’ll decorate it and the many family gatherings you’ll have there. You tell your family and friends about this amazing new home, and everyone is excited for you. You’re already planning the house warming party. But when you apply for financing, you learn that you don’t qualify for the mortgage. In fact, the home is more than $100,000 higher than what any lender will approve you for. Defeated and saddened, you begin the home search all over again. You can avoid this scenario when you make getting a mortgage pre-approval your first step in the home buying process. Mortgage Pre-Approval Versus Pre-Qualification Realize there’s a big difference between being pre-qualified and being pre-approved. Many home buyers think these terms are interchangeable, but they are not. Pre-qualification means you have supplied a lender with some basic information, such as your income, debts, and assets. You may have given the details via phone or on an online form. Everything is based solel...Jul 24, 2018
How To Price Your Home Effectively
One of the most difficult aspects of listing your home for sale, is trying to price it appropriately. Most people have a general idea of what their home might be worth, but that price may not be what the fair market value actually is. The fair market value of your home, is what any buyer is willing and able to pay to purchase your home. This is why it is so important to make sure your home is priced appropriately. There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration when pricing your home effectively. In this article we will explore the vital criteria that facilitates a successful sale. The first and probably most important aspect of pricing your home appropriately, is to find out what other homes in your neighborhood are selling for. This is called comparable home sales. By taking a look at other homes similar to yours in the same neighborhood, or nearby area, you will be able to see what buyers are willing and able to pay for a home similar to yours. There are a few different aspects of looking at comparable home sales, which we will explore in the next paragraph. One of the main components that goes into comparable home sales is the aesthetics of other homes in the neighborhood. What do the other homes in the neighborhood look like in comparison to yours? How do they compare in terms of upgrades, amenities, and property conditions? Do homes in your neighborhood that have recently sold have updated kitchens, bathrooms, or a pool? What is the square foot...Jul 5, 2018