Trang’s Weekly Real Estate Wrap-Up for 2/5/2010

California home permits declined 44 percent in 2009
California homebuilders pulled 36,209 permits statewide in 2009, a 44 percent decline compared with 2008, and 83 percent lower compared with 2004, the peak of the current cycle, according to the California Building Industry Association (CBIA).  Last year also marked the second consecutive year of record-low housing production [...]

Selling Your Home In Winter

In many parts of the country, selling a home during the winter months can be a challenge. Dreary, cold weather and the end-of-the-year holidays can keep buyers away and heighten fears of your home staying on the market longer than expected.
However, there are a few things you can do to enhance “curb appeal.” And when [...]

Trang’s Weekly Real Estate Wrap-Up for 1/8/2010

California’s Median Price: First Year-to-Year Gain in Two Years
Median price has been an improving situation: Following a 59% peak-to-trough decline, California’s median price surpassed the $300,000 thredhold in November, an increase of 2.4% in month-to-month comparisons, and the first year-to-year increase since August 2007.
Sales also in healthy territory: Home sales in California returned to pre-peak [...]

Benefits of a Buyer's Agent

For most of us, buying a home is the biggest single investment we’re likely to make – and we’re only likely to do it maybe once or twice in a lifetime. The process is, by nature, filled with checks and balances – and many complex details. Traditionally, agents were legally obligated to protect the interests [...]

Getting Prepared

Before you step foot into the first home you look at, it’s a good idea to thoughtfully determine your wants and needs, and the difference between the two! By analyzing your needs you will be able to get a clear picture of exactly what you want your new home to look like and how it [...]

First Time Buyers

Approaching the task of buying a home can be overwhelming. It is a complex event during which there is so much to learn and to consider. How much can I afford? Where will the down payment come from? How much will I need and where can I find the best loan? How do I begin [...]