Move to Bakersfield

3 Tips to sell your home for maximum dollar in record time

1. CURB APPEAL. First impressions count. Make sure the exterior of your home is well-maintained and attractive. Consider simple upgrades like landscaping, fresh paint, or a new front door to enhance your curb appeal.
2. DECLUTTER AND STAGE. Clear out personal items and clutter to make your home appear more spacious and inviting. Consider hiring a professional stager to showcase your home’s best features and help potential buyers envision themselves living there.
3. PRICE STRATEGICALLY. As Central Valley California residential experts we assist with a pricing strategy that fits your needs. The price is set according to your goals based on current market conditions, the size and condition of your home, the location of your home, comparable sales in your area, and unique features of your property.

When are property taxes due?

In Kern County, California the Kern County Treasurer-Tax Collector sends the property tax bills two times a year. According to the KCTTC website, “Your first installment of property taxes are due by November 1 and delinquent after December 10. Your second installment is due on February 1 and delinquent after April 10” (2024).

There are some homeowners that incorporate their tax payments with their monthly mortgage payment which is paid from a mortgage escrow account. This is very helpful for first-time homebuyers or anyone who chooses to pay property taxes this way. For more information on Kern County property taxes click on the link that leads to the local tax website.

https://www.kcttc.co.kern.ca.us

What is Seller Rent – Back?

A seller who might need some additonal time to move could negotiate renting your home after the close of escrow. So that you do not have to move immediately at the close of escrow. All terms are negotiated by your realtors however all terms must be approved by both seller and buyer.

Terms (dates of agreement)

Consideration (fees to be paid)

Sellers obligations (maintenance/ delivery)

Utilities

Entry (right of entry by buyer)

Assignment (only if approved)

Insurance (seller is advised to purchase renters insurance)

This helps those seller who might need the extra time to move and could be a great solution. We want your home sale to go as smoothly as possible.

What is the difference in Pre-Qualification vs Pre-Approval?

The first step, is the pre-qualificaiton when applying for a mortgage application. Loan professionals review your debts, assets, income, and down payment.

The second step, is the pre-approval which is our recommendation since all documents are submitted and reviewed by lenders. The buyer completes a mortgage application. The documents provided for a full approval recent pay stubs, W-2’s (2 years), tax returns (2 years), bank statements (2 years), credit report is processed, and submitted to underwriting.

This helps the loan officer have a good understanding of where a client stands. When completed you will understand: Budget for a home, estimated monthly payments, down payment options and estimated closing costs.

We have a list of lenders that we recommend but work closely with all loan officers, brokers, banks, private lenders, and credit unions.

What are the costs of buying a home?

To determine how much house you can afford, it is important to factor additional expenses, such as closing costs, insurance, taxes, and maintenance before committing to a mortgage.

DOWNPAYMENT. The amount of down payment varies depending on your loan which will determine the percentage of the home’s overall price.

Your downpayment will depend on the loan you select ranging from 3% – 30% percent down, and if you are eligible 0% down.

CLOSING COSTS. These costs range typically 2% – to 5% of your loan principal, and can include: application fees, earnest money deposit, appraisal, inspections, origination/underwriting fees, transfer tax, and title insurance fees.

RESERVES. To make sure a homebuyer isn’t completely wiping out their bank account, lenders may require them to show that they have additional cash at their disposal. This acts as a form of guarantee that the borrower will be able to make mortgage payments. Typically required to have two months’ worth of mortgage payments in reserve.

Homeowners’ Top Reasons to Sell

31% Want different features/ amenities

29% Home no longer meet their needs

26% Need a home office to work

23% Want to be closer to loved ones

22% Want a smaller home that is less work

17% No longer need to live near their office

How is technology integrated into our services?

According to the National Association of Realtors, “REALTORS® most often prefer to communicate with their clients through text messaging, at 94%. Ninety-two percent preferred to communicate via telephone, and 90% through e-mail” (Realtor.com, 2024).

We work exclusively with our clients and customize every client’s form of preferred contact. As your realtors, we use the best available forms of technology for communication cell phones, email, zoom, social media, texts, digital signatures, mobile notary, mail, or in person.