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How to Choose the Best Pleasanton Real Estate Agent
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Secure your investment when you seek the help of the best real estate agent.
Like many other Americans, your Pleasanton CA home is probably the biggest financial investment you've ever made. If you're thinking of selling it, considering how valuable it is for you, you obviously would only want the help of the best Realtor® in Pleasanton.
But there are plenty of agents and Realtors® in Pleasanton, so how do you choose the best one?
Choosing means having options, so start by narrowing down your options.
Selecting the best real estate agent.
You need to have a basis of comparison. Just like finding the best restaurant or best drinks, you need the right selections.
Here are five things you can do to find the best Pleasanton Realtor®.
1. Create your shortlist. Ask referrals from people you know who have sold homes. Ask recommendations from your friends and family members.
Search online!
Great Realtors® have a strong online presence and previous customers aren't intimidated to give feedback or reviews of how they think the agent performed.
2. Take the time to talk to the agents. Learn how long they have been working. You want someone who has been licensed for more than five years. It can be difficult to entrust your hard-earned investment to someone who is new.
You have to know how they work under pressure, their current listings, about homes they’ve sold, their marketing plan, etc. You want to have first hand knowledge on the agent's communication and social skills, and more importantly, find out if they connect well with you.
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3. Ask for any professional awards or recognition. An agent can proclaim himself or herself as the best agent, but without any awards or recognition to back up that claim, you'd know he or she isn't the best one.
4. Choose the one with the right credentials. Like doctors and lawyers, agents also have specialties. Some of the designations are :
CRS means Certified Residential Specialist, someone who has completed additional training in real estate.
ABR means Accredited Buyer's Representative, someone who has completed additional education as a buyer's representative.
SRES means Seniors Real Estate Specialist, someone who has completed training in helping clients age 50 and above.
Of course, you know that a Realtor® means an agent who has sworn an oath to work within the parameters of a code of ethics, and a member of NAR.
5. Choose someone who is continually educating herself, learning and adapting to the constantly changing real estate market. Find an agent who does not stop learning, who doesn’t just rely on what she knows, but still aims to improve and get better.
You want to hire me Rhonda Fee, the best Realtor® in Pleasanton.
I’ve been in the real estate business for 14 years. I earned my Broker’s degree in 2011 and received the Grand Master’s Award in 2014 and 2015 from Bay East Association of Realtors®.
I firmly believe in integrity and honesty in dealing with clients. I can try and convince you that I’m the best in this town, but I think it’s better to let my former clients do the talking. Visit my testimonials page here: http://HomeValuesPleasanton.com/Testimonials/.
Call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. Allow me to let you experience the best real estate transaction you’ll ever have.
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A Step by Step Guide to Buying Your First Home
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lx4oblDbjw&feature=youtu.be
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Buying a home for the first time can be a confusing and daunting experience.
You may find yourself overwhelmed by the many things you have to do, and in the process make mistakes that may cost you more than you originally planned for.
It’s essential that you know what to do and who to turn to, so I’ve prepared a 10-step guide to help you buy your first home.
Check out the different topics included in this home buying guide.
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Step 1. Determine if you’re ready to be a homeowner
Owning a home is an all-American dream. It's also a major milestone towards the world of adulthood and financial responsibility.
Are you ready to be a homeowner?
Because it's a decision that takes months of planning and preparation, here are some signs that indicate your readiness.
Signs You're Ready to Be a Homeowner
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1. You are financially stable. One of the best indicators you're ready to own a home is your finances. You need a steady source of income that will help you save for your initial deposit, cover your monthly mortgage and still allow you to live a comfortable lifestyle. Experts recommend that your mortgage costs no more than 20 to 30% of your monthly income.
A home purchase is one of the biggest financial investments you'll make, and it can put you in a financially dire situation when you're not prepared.
2. You've saved enough down payment. Do you have enough money saved for a down payment? A home sale requires a down payment. Depending on the loan type, the down payment can range from 3.5% -20% of your home's purchase price. The larger your initial payment, the smaller your monthly mortgage payment.
3. You have strong credit. This three-number score is essential in securing a mortgage. If you're rocking a good score, you can secure a better interest, which can save you thousands of dollars in interest payment.
A strong score takes time to build. If you plan to buy a home in Pleasanton this year, you should have started building your credit score last year.
Making payments on all tradelines on time helps boost your credit score. The same goes for avoiding large purchases months before you have your credit score checked.
If you have no idea what your credit score is, now is the time to find out. The Federal law allows you to get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting company.
4. You plan to stick around. Buying a Pleasanton residence means you’re planning to keep your home at least 2-years or more.  Longer is great, so give this some consideration.
You’ll not just be committing to the property, you’ll commit to the neighborhood and the larger geographic location as well. So love where you choose to live!
5. You're prepared for home maintenance. Homes require maintenance to continue functioning well. Repairs are inevitable, so you should at least have basic skills to handle minor fixes and flaws or be prepared to hire someone if you are not so skilled in these areas. If this is not your forte’, your Real Estate Agent can offer you names of tried and true professionals to assist in times of need.
Step 2. Get Pre-Approved
You've probably been looking at various homes online, thinking you can afford them.
Before you make the mistake of fixating over a certain type of home or on certain features you want in a home, you need to know what you can really afford.
Knowing your budget gives you realistic expectations, allowing you to choose a home that's right and within your financial range.
To get an idea of how much you can possibly qualify for, you can get a prequalification or preapproval from a reliable lender. Again, your chosen Real Estate agent can give you names of experienced, professional lenders that will take the best care of you.
It's a quick process where you provide the bank or the lender with your financial information, like your income, assets and debt. It can be done online or over the phone.  After a simple evaluation, the lender can give you a great idea of how much home you qualify to purchase!
Getting a pre-qualification is helpful, but it's not the same as getting pre-approved.
Having an idea of how much you can afford is different from knowing exactly how much you can spend.
My advice is to get a pre-approval.
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A pre-approval is a more in depth evaluation of your finances by the lender.
With a pre-approval, the lender will do an extensive check on your financial situation and current credit rating. The lender will also tell you the specific mortgage amount for which you are pre-approved. It holds a heavier weight over a mere pre-qualification.
How do you get a pre-approval? Which lender will you choose? Again, your chosen Real Estate professional can help you choose the right Mortgage profession to assist you.
Here are the advantages of securing a pre-approval.
It tells you exactly how much mortgage you qualify for. Knowing how much you can afford helps streamline the properties you seek out. This way, you don't waste time looking at homes you'll just end up pining for because they are out of your budget range.
It increases your negotiating power. When sellers know that you've been pre-approved, they'll take your offer more seriously. It boosts your ranking in a pack of potential buyers because the seller thinks that your offer is much stronger than the others.
Let’s hear what HGTV has to say about budgeting for home buying.
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Step 3. Hire the right real estate agent.
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Purchasing a home is a big investment, and you need the guidance of a full-time, in-the-trenches, so-to-speak, agent. You need someone who’s got your back, someone who'll look out for your interests, someone who'll prioritize your needs and someone who'll listen. In other words, you need more than a good real estate agent, you need an excellent real estate agent like me, Rhonda Fee.
How do you find the best real estate agent? It takes some effort and legwork, but the results are worth it.
Here are four steps you can do to ensure you'll pick the best one out of hundreds of Pleasanton real estate agents.
1. Search online. Everything is done online these days, and the same applies to looking for an agent. An excellent agent has a strong online presence, as well as a good track record. Online reviews left by former clients can give you an idea of how the agent works.
2. Ask for referrals. Don't be satisfied with what's available online. Ask for referrals from your family and friends. Ask people you know who have sold homes.
3. Set an appointment. You want an agent you can trust, and that can be difficult online or over the phone. The best way to find out if you can work well with the agent is to meet her. Make an appointment and sit down for an interview.
4. Have a prepared list of questions. You are not meeting with the agent just to establish friendship. You are meeting so you can see if he or she can give the answers you need. Having a prepared list of questions is helpful so you won't forget any important questions.
What are some things you should be asking? Since it’s quite easy for a consumer to find properties themselves, ask some tough questions: Take a look at some of the suggestions below:
> How long have you been in real estate?
> How long have you been working as an agent in Pleasanton?
> Do you work full-time or part-time?
> How do you set yourself apart from other agents in a difficult market?
> In a multiple offer situation, what strategies do you use to help me?
> Please explain your fiduciary duty to me? What does that entail?
> How might my earnest money deposit be protected if I change my mind during the process, once we are in escrow?
> Does the seller have a right to change their mind once we are in contract?
> Do you continually educate yourself on current obstacles in the real estate market? If so, how?
>Have you ever had a dispute that ended up in mediation?
>Do you have an attorney at your fingertips should we need legal advice?
Sitting down and asking these questions will help you gauge which agent you can work best with.
Check out what my previous clients have to say about me here: 
http://HomeValuesPleasanton.com/Testimonials/. 
Step 4: Find a home
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You’ve secured a pre-approval and you now have an amazing REALTOR®. You’re ready for the most exciting step - Choosing a home.
There are so many decisions and considerations before you can pick out the right home.
How do you find the right home? Do you just base it on the price? How about the location? Should you also factor in the finishes?
All these questions boggling your mind can make it challenging to find the right home.
Take a look at these 3 factors you should consider in choosing a home.
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Price. Your top consideration in looking for a home is price.
Pleasanton real estate market has homes at different price ranges, but you have to find a home that's within your budget range. You want a home that will keep your mortgage payments at a minimum.
Location, location, location! You've heard this before, you'll hear it again.
Your home's location is essential in living comfortably and conveniently. It is influenced by the kind of neighborhood it belongs to and by the amenities surrounding it. If you have kids, you may want to consider finding a property near schools. How far or how close is it to your workplace?  Having shops, dining options, and hospitals within driving distance are also good points to factor in your search for the right location.
Type of home. What home are you seeking? Are you looking for a single-detached home, a condo, a townhouse or maybe a patio home? Do you want a home near the city center or on the outskirts of the city? How large do you want it to be?
Consider your needs and wants. The home should have the type of floor plan you desire. It must also have the number of rooms needed to accommodate everyone in your family comfortably.
The right home will speak to you. When you step inside the front door, you’ll know right away that it is the home you’ve had in mind.
Here’s a great tip: Make a list of wants and needs. The “needs” column will have all the things you need to live comfortably, and the “wants” column will contain amenities and finishes that are good to have, but are negotiable.
Let’s watch HGTV’s house hunting tips for first-time buyers.
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Step 5: Get a mortgage
You’ve found “the one”! It’s now time to secure a mortgage.
This part should be easy enough because you’ve already gone through the trouble of researching the lenders,  learning about the various mortgage loans available for you and comparing loan terms and payment.  
If you haven’t found the mortgage lender to work with, here are my top tips to find the best one :
Research on the different mortgage lenders. You want to find a lender that offers a good loan program with low-interest rates. Searching online and asking for references from family, friends, co-workers and your real estate agent can help you find the best lender.
Mortgage broker or mortgage banker.  Do you need a mortgage broker or a mortgage banker?
A mortgage broker can help you easily find various lender programs and guidelines. They are convenient to use and they handle the requirements with expertise. You may encounter mortgage brokers who'll set you up with a lender just because they'll receive a higher commission, regardless of whether you'll be asked to pay a higher interest. This is why recommendations are very important.
A mortgage banker is like a loan officer. He or she works in the bank or lending institution and will guide you in choosing the most suitable loan option for your budget they personally offer.
Ask questions. When you've created a list of possible lenders, set up an interview with your top three. Prepare your questions to know if their services are what you want.
Don’t make up your mind just yet. Get a loan application from three different lenders. After two to three days, you’ll receive a breakdown of the loan terms for which you qualify. This can be known as a Good Faith Estimates.
Compare the different options available to you. Once you’ve found the lender which has the best loan terms and rates, secure a pre-approval.
Step 6: Make an offer - and get it accepted
Making an offer is not as easy as you stating an amount, the seller accepting the amount, and ending it with a handshake.
It's a little more complicated, and having my expert help will really make things easier for you.
The first thing you have to settle is the price. We'll be working together to decide on the offer based on similar properties in the area.
Your offer letter will include terms & program you intend to use. If the seller likes your terms, it may be accepted. If he has multiple offers, a Seller Multiple Offer Counter may be sent to several buyers at one time.
When both parties have come to an agreement regarding the terms, the property will go into escrow and stay there until all the steps of the home buying process have been completed.
Step 7: Get a home inspection and a home appraisal
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Whether you’re buying an almost new home or one that’s been around for a long time, you’ll need a home inspection.  The home inspection is your best protection. It will tell exactly what you’re buying.
If there are any repairs you’d like to ask the seller to complete, during the inspection contingency period is the right time to negotiate.
However, you should also be reasonable. Don’t expect the house to be perfect.
You just want the most important things taken cared of so you can move into the house with fewer worries.
In a seller’s market, such as we are currently experiencing, it may be best to accept the home in its current condition unless there is something of extreme expense that you cannot undertake.
A home appraisal will be required by your lender to ensure they are loaning based on a fair market value of the home you are buying.
In case you want to buy an old home, here’s a video from HGTV which will help you know some good tips to embrace and pitfalls to avoid.
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Step 8: Get an insurance
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Another step the lenders will require you to take is to get home insurance.
This is one way they can protect themselves from accidents like fire and some other risks.
Aside from your home, you can also ensure any other structures in the property like the detached garage and storage shed, your personal property, your family, and more.
Step 9: Sign Closing Documents
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You’re almost there!
This step is where all the necessary documents related to the home purchase are collected and updated, signed and notarized.
All you’ll need to do is to review the mortgage documents.  I can help you do that during the signing appointment.
Step 10: Closing
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This is it! This is the last part of the home buying process. This is where the final documents are signed, and the cashier’s check is transferred from your hand to the seller’s hand, via the escrow account. Once the new deed has been recorded with the county, you are truly a homeowner!
Congratulations! Your next step is to move in and enjoy your property.
Buying your first home can be a difficult experience, but when you have my help, you’ll know what to do and when to do it. This step by step guide already laid down the essentials of the home buying process, making things easier for you.
I am Rhonda Fee, your Realtor® here in Pleasanton CA. Call me at 925-200-0827 and let’s discuss how you can buy your first home.
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In case you cannot view this video here, please click the link below to view A Step By Step Guide to Buying Your First Home on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lx4oblDbjw&feature=youtu.be
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Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Stage Your Home Before Selling
Is staging necessary?
Selling your home is a big decision. It entails intensive planning and preparation. 
Among the many considerations you have to make when you are selling your Shadow Cliff Pleasanton home is whether to stage it or sell it empty.  If it is your first time to sell a home, you may think of staging as an additional burden. It’s going to take time and money, both of which you may be running out of.
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So why stage?
It takes only a few seconds for a homebuyer to decide whether he likes the home or not. Staging your Shadow Cliff Pleasanton home showcases its best features and appeals to the buyers emotions which increase the possibility of the buyer falling in love with it. After all, buying a home is an emotional thing.
Not yet convinced? Here are the five top reasons you should stage your home.
It will sell your home fast. When you want to sell your home quickly, stage it.  In a 2013 study conducted by RESA, it found out that homes that are staged sell 73% faster than their non-staged counterparts. Staging makes everything better - from the marketing photos and videos, to the feeder sites, to printed materials like flyers and brochures. Well-staged homes look amazing in online photos and flyers, but more importantly, they make your home attractive to buyers which creates interest and excitement about your home, increasing its likelihood of selling.
It justifies your price. When you have a beautifully staged home, it is easier to ask for a higher price. Remember, a buyer will pay only what they think your home deserves. Upgrades are part of staging, and well-chosen updated appliances can increase your home’s listing price.
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It makes the house larger. Maybe you’ve heard of the expression “Empty rooms look smaller”. Rooms look bigger when they are furnished because you can see how many pieces of furniture it can fit inside, thus giving you a reference of what you can put. Staging is all about arranging furniture to create maximum space.
It helps buyers imagine themselves in the house. Staging includes de-personalizing the home. When buyers visit your home and see your personal items still all over the place, it can be difficult for them to see themselves fitting in your home. Removing your personal items and replacing it with something neutral helps buyers better visualize themselves enjoying the comforts of the Shadow Cliff Pleasanton home you are selling.
It will help you bag the “amazing first impression”.  Staging comprises of two parts - indoor and outdoor. It follows that a well-staged home has exceptional curb appeal, which is visible when people see your home from the street. It is what draws buyers to your home. A staged home looks more appealing and is more attractive to buyers.
You’ve probably heard many agents and Realtors® say “You will never get another chance to make a good first impression”. This describes accurately how necessary it is to pretty up your home.
Highlight your home’s best features. Show buyers your home’s potential. Stage your home before selling it.
If you want to know more home selling tips, visit http://HomeValuesPleasanton.com/.
Call me, Rhonda Fee, at (925)200-0827. Allow me to help you prepare your home for one of the biggest sales in your life.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Stage Your Home Before Selling on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/xwQRZLutHNs
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Top 5 Outdoor Improvements That Will Add Value to Your Home
Boost your home’s resale value
Thinking of home improvements? If you are planning to put your Pleasanton CA home up for sale, or you just want a better looking home, you may want to consider getting outdoor improvements.
Outdoor living is a popular trend, and it has shown no signs of slowing down. People love having outdoor living spaces, a private space where they can retreat, relax, and entertain. Next to energy efficiency, outdoor upgrades is one of the home improvements buyers look for.
The best thing about outdoor improvement? It can be done with minimal cost, yet you get to enjoy a high return of investment. The NAR (National Association of Realtors®) 2016 Remodeling Impact Report : Outdoor Features  report a 100% in cost recovery.
Outdoor improvements with the highest ROI
Before you start thinking of getting a pool, installing a deck and a few other outdoor upgrades you’ve seen on TV, you should know that not all improvements have high ROI.
Some upgrades yield a lower percentage recovery. You need to know which upgrades can add the most value to your home.
Here are the top 5 outdoor improvements which will boost your home’s ROI.
Improved landscaping and gardening. Buyers perceive homes with landscaped front and backyards, gardens with flowering plants and trees have a higher value compared to homes with just a front lawn.
If you are selling your Pleasanton home, a basic upgrade you can do is to add flowering shrubs in your garden or pathway. When you want something low maintenance, opt for native plants or drought-tolerant plants available in your area. Adding a tree near the window will not only bring your home shade, it will also help keep the home a little cool especially during the summer.
Replacing your pathway with a flagstone walkway also enhances the curb appeal. Incorporating at least two large stone planters further enhance the outdoor appeal. Do you know that this improvement alone can add up to 10% on your home’s value?
Put up some lighting. With the proper lighting, the home comes alive. Once you’ve finished with the landscaping, show it off even at nighttime by installing electric or solar powered spotlights. Lighting also helps increase a home’s security, giving you better peace of mind.
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Consider installing a patio. Many homes for sale in Pleasanton have patios, and if you have none, you may  consider getting one. The patio transforms the backyard into an enticing outdoor living space. Furnish it with several comfortable outdoor chairs and you now have a relaxing outdoor space.
Create an outdoor room by adding a pergola. Make your patio more exciting by adding a pergola. A pergola dramatically enhances a backyard’s look. It also allows for more shade and a perfect way to hang greeneries.
Add a fire pit. To complete your relaxing outdoor oasis, add a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace. On those rare chilly nights, this is the perfect spot to hang out with family and friends.
But you don’t need chilly nights to use the fire pit. You can also use it for roasting marshmallows, chicken tacos, and sausages. You don’t have to get the most expensive one either. Even the budget friendly ones will do, as long it serves the function for your summer soiree.
These outdoor improvements will definitely make you want to stay in your home a little longer. If you are selling your Pleasanton home, the new owner will surely thank you for creating a wonderful and relaxing space for them to enjoy.
Which ones are you going to do on your backyard?
Call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. Let me make your home selling transaction a smooth and stress free journey.
You can also check out my website http://HomeValuesPleasanton.com/ to learn about homes for sale in Pleasanton.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view Top 5 Outdoor Improvements That Will Add Value to Your Home on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/rqfkA4b3edM
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What are the Closing Costs of Buying a Home in Pleasanton CA
Don't forget the closing costs
Buying a home is exciting but also nerve-racking, especially for first time buyers. If you are buying a home in Pleasanton CA, you are probably thinking about the initial down payment and the monthly mortgage payment you have to make. But there is one thing that many first time home buyers neglect to prepare for, and that is the closing costs.
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The closing costs are the fees and charges you pay for your mortgage loan. It is generally between 2-5% of the purchase price. In Pleasanton CA, the closing cost of homes for sale can set you back, on the average, at least $3,700.
Before you can truly own a home, you have to figure out your closing costs. Ideally, your mortgage officer will give you a Loan Estimate which should help you know how know approximately  how much will your closing cost will be. There are also several online calculators which can give you an idea of the closing costs for your home.
What are the usual fees included in a closing cost?
You can basically categorize closing costs into two types - the recurring and the non-recurring costs. The recurring costs are, as the name suggests, expenses you'll have to make a regular payment. The non-recurring costs are one-time payments you only Shave to make to get the loan.
Under prepaid costs, you have to pay the following :
INSURANCES - You have to secure some insurance when you buy a home. It includes the private mortgage insurance, fire insurance and  flood insurance.
REAL ESTATE TAXES - This is the tax you will have to pay the government, and it is usually prorated between you and the seller, depending on when the closing takes place.
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For recurring costs, the following items are included :
APPRAISAL FEE. Before your mortgage loan is approved, the home or property you are buying needs to be appraised by a professional lender who will assess the value of the home. In most cases, the lender will require an appraisal from someone of their own choosing. They will not use the appraisal some seller’s sometimes provide. The result of the appraisal will help the lender decide how much money they can loan you. The appraisal fee is usually paid out of closing costs.
TERMITE INSPECTION FEE - Termite treatment and damage repair is expensive, so most lenders require a termite inspection because they are protecting their investment, the money that they are loaning you to buy the house.
SURVEY FEE - Like the appraisal and termite inspections, the lender may also require a survey for the property. Usually, this is part of the borrower's fees, but you can negotiate it be paid by the seller.
HOME INSPECTION FEE - You'll be asked to get a home inspection to verify the condition of the property and see if there are repairs that are needed.
FLOOD ZONE CERTIFICATION FEE - This is in payment for verifying that the property is located in a flood free zone.
ATTORNEY - Attorney fees differ from state to state and depend on the attorney that is chosen. Some charge per hour, others charge on a flat rate.
ORIGINATION FEE- This is charged by the lender to cover the administrative costs of making a loan.
APPLICATION FEE - Also referred to as the lender's processing fee.
UNDERWRITING FEE - Whichever lender you choose will have an underwriting fee. It covers the research of the mortgage company checking to see if you are approved for the loan or not.
CREDIT REPORT - The lender will be checking your credit history to see if you will be approved for a loan, and for how much.
DISCOUNT POINTS - These are paid to the lender for a lower interest rate. This fee buys you a reduced rate so you have a lower monthly mortgage payment.
TITLE SEARCH - In buying a home, the lender must search for public records of the property you are buying to see if there are unsettled mortgage payments on the property.
TITLE INSURANCE - This is paid to the lender to insure ownership of the property.
RECORDING FEES - This is among the government fees you have to pay for recording the real estate purchase.
TRANSFER TAXES  - Is another government fee for transferring the property to you.
All these costs can be overwhelming, but that is the price you have to pay to be a homeowner. To make things easier to understand, setup an appointment with your mortgage officer and discuss all these costs and see which ones you can ask the seller to help with. help payment from the seller.
For more home buying or selling information, visit http://www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com/.
Planning to buy a home in Pleasanton? Call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. Allow my extensive experience as a REALTOR® help you find the home of your dreams.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What are the Closing Costs of Buying a Home in Pleasanton CA on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0o2MqggtPM&feature=youtu.be
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How Does Rhonda Fee Arrive at My Home’s Estimated Value?
As a home seller, you want to be sure that your home is priced right before you list it. The last thing you want is to leave money on the table, or overprice your home. Doing any of these two things will lead to more problems, and you already have enough challenges and concerns on your plate.
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To find out how much your Pleasanton CA home is worth, the best and closest price you can find for its market value will be from a real estate agent, or a REALTOR® like me.
How do I come up with your home's estimated value?
Real estate agents determine your Pleasanton CA’s home value by doing a comparative market analysis. A CMA is an analysis of recently sold homes in your area which can help set the price range for your home, just as you like to compare the prices of your favorite brands from different stores.
What’s in a CMA and how can it help you? Since it is a real estate agent who prepare the CMA, you’ll likely find different items included in it, but here are some common things you should see.
Recently sold properties. This contains the list of similar properties in the area sold with the past six months. The more recent the purchase, the better. It is important because it says what actual buyers pay for similar properties.
Current real estate listings. This refers to a list of similar homes currently for sale in your neighborhood. It helps you get to know your competition better. 
You also get to know how much they priced their homes for. Take note, these homes’s prices are not likely to be the final price, so don’t base your pricing on current real estate listings.
Pending sale listing. These are homes under contract. I don’t suggest you use the prices of homes under the pending sale listings because the deal is not over yet, and there are probably negotiations under way.
Cancelled or withdrawn listings. These are homes that used to be on the market but for one reason or another have been taken off the market.
Where does the CMA’s information come from? Experienced real estate agents know that to come up with the right valuation for your Pleasanton home, the data must come from the MLS (multiple listing service).
The MLS is a database of homes already sold, homes for sale and homes under contract in a given area. It is only accessible to real estate agents. The MLS contains the most accurate record of square footage, number of bedrooms, and other home features you need to accurately compare homes.
The following are some home features we consider in preparing the comparables:
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Age and condition of home. The year or era your home was built is a factor we look at when comparing properties. New homes are not necessarily more expensive, but how your home looks relative to its age does matter.
Square footage. One of the features we look at is the similarity in square footage. In comparing two 2-story Colonial style homes for example, one of the things we check is if the homes are nearly similar size.
Number of bedrooms and baths. These two are important determiners of a value of a home. If your home only has two bathrooms while the rest of the comparables have three, certain adjustments should be made in pricing.
Amenities. The more amenities your home offers, the higher the price. Luxury amenities like top-of-the-line home appliances, spas and swimming pools make a huge difference in the home’s price.
Location.  The view outside your window can affect your home price. Your home may not be the best, but if it’s near a great school, on waterfront or on a cul-de-sac, your home’s value appreciates.
I’m Rhonda Fee, broker owner of Aspire Realty licensed in the state of California. When you are my client, I handle you with the same care as if I were buying or selling a property for myself. I care about your success in buying or selling your Pleasanton, CA home. Sign up with me and let’s work together to make your real estate dreams come true! Call me now at 925-200-0827.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view How Does Rhonda Fee Arrive at My Home’s Estimated Value?  on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/XPcBbtFZ5ss.
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What Upgrades Do You Consider When Estimating the Value of My Home?
The quote “Everything has a price” may well be talking directly about your home.
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These days, any home upgrades, even minor renovations, cost something. Therefore, it is only fair when you put your Pleasanton home up for sale, the upgrades should also be considered.
When you are selling your home and you want to increase its value, you may consider getting renovations.
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But before you start planning home renovations, there are three important principles you have to remember.
Choose the right upgrade. Anything and everything that you do in or out your home may raise your home’s price from the ‘average’ price of homes for sale in your area.
What is its complication? If the renovation you choose will raise your home’s price to the “upper end” but your neighborhood does not exactly give the “high-end” feel, you may have a hard time selling your home.
Not all upgrades and renovations will bring you ROI. Different upgrades, improvements and renovations have different returns, however, when you are selling a home, there are some improvements that will have higher returns.
These improvements are usually more on the “general maintenance” scale, simply because homeowners have different preferences, and what you like may not be what the new homeowners prefer.
Improvements should be geared toward what would make the home “timeless” and “always in style”.
Don’t overspend. The idea of upgrading the home before selling it is to make it more enticing and marketable so you will have home buyers flocking to your door.
You don’t need to overspend or borrow money to make your home more presentable.
Here is a list of upgrades you can do that will not cost you too much, but will be considered when agents come in and appraise your Pleasanton home for sale.
1. Landscape. The first thing people see when they visit your home is the landscape. This means everything you see outside your window when you look out.
Window boxes, porch planters, and new mailboxes are considered in valuations, so improve and repaint them. If you don’t have them, buy some and install them. They not only make a house look cozy and more alive, they also bring color to the home.
The fence, porch railings and front door are also part of the  landscape, so fix them and  give them a new coat of paint.
Work on your lawn and garden. Remove any weeds. Get the grass as green as possible.
2. Insulation. An attic air seal and fiber glass installation has an ROI of 116/% upon resale, says the Chicago Tribune.
Some upgrades are meant to beautify, others to tighten the home’s shell. You may not see it, but when you look at your utility bill, you’ll know the value. Home seekers care about these things because it means fewer expenses for them.
3. Kitchen remodels. The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in the house, and is often among the living spaces visited by potential buyers. A kitchen upgrade can be expensive, but it also has a high ROI.
Painting your kitchen is an improvement. New cabinets, kitchen fixtures and lights will also add value.
4.  Basement renovations. Improving the basement means adding finished space to the home. It increases value because it converts a rarely used room into one that is usable.
You can convert your basement in your Pleasanton’s home for sale into a game room, a den, or a play area. Or you can leave it like that, and let the new owners decide how they want to use it.
While these are the common ones that are usually looked at when deciding the value of a home, there are still many other upgrades out there.
Don’t worry! Your real estate interests are my top priority. That is why upgrades you have, that might not be on this list will also be considered. :)
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What Upgrades Do You Consider When Estimating the Value of My Home? on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7RAn7w9ad8&feature=youtu.be
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Should I get a home appraisal BEFORE selling my home?
You've decided to put your Pleasanton CA home up for sale.
You've had a couple of real estate agents come by and provide you with your home's value based on the comparative market analysis (CMA). However, the prices you were given were drastically different from each other. Which one should you choose?
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This is a common issue among many home sellers. You know you need to price your home right so it will sell successfully, but no two agent can give you the  exact same price.
You've probably considered getting a third opinion, maybe from another real estate agent.
Or if you have extra money to spare, you may have thought of getting a home appraisal.
The benefit of home appraisal
An appraisal determines the current market value of your home by sending a professional state licensed appraiser to check your home's physical properties.
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The appraiser compares the sale of several similar real estate properties within a couple of miles from your home. He or she will then make adjustments based on the condition of the home, upgrades made, location etc.
One benefit of getting a home appraisal is you, as the home seller get an assurance of your Pleasanton home for sale's value.
Another benefit is knowing that the value was given by someone who is an expert and professional and who can back up that value by an appraisal report.
But should you get a home appraisal before listing your home?
I don't normally suggest getting a home appraisal before listing your home.
Here are my reasons why:
1. Before listing your home, an appraisal is just another opinion of your home's worth.
You can use your money however you want, but don't think the value will be transferrable to the buyer. The buyer will not use that appraisal because the lender will order another appraisal from their end. The appraisal, therefore, will only be for your use.
2. Appraisals are based on comparables of homes sold. But what if there are no recent sales in your area? The appraiser will then use old sales from last year, sometimes as far back as three or four years to get a good comparison. Sometimes, insufficient data can affect the appraiser's value, especially since he or she relies heavily on comparables.
You would be better off asking assistance from an experienced real estate agent like me, Rhonda Fee, since I can help determine your home's worth based on comps and market trend. Also, it is likely that since I may have already visited the home several times that I know more about the updates and changes.
3. Appraisals are subjective to appraisers, therefore, you will always get different value. Like with the two real estate agents, no two appraisers will give you the exact same price.  
I can help determine your home in Pleasanton’s value using the CMA and it’s free!
4. Sometimes, you can get so stuck on the appraisal that you don’t want to negotiate because you expect the value from the appraisal.
There have been some occasions that the sellers I am helping refuse to consider a good price from a buyer because they wanted the value from their appraisal.  Though you set the home's price,  I hope you'll remember that it in the end, you'll have to mutually agree with the buyer when it comes to your home's value.
Getting an appraisal before listing your home really depends on you. If you have the money to spare, do it for your peace of mind, but also know it is not a necessity.
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**In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view Should I Get a Home Appraisal Before Selling My Home? on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cr0kDe-Pvk&feature=youtu.be**
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UNDER CONTRACT! 22812 Paseo Pl Hayward CA 94541 | Condo for Sale
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Condominium lifestyle at its best
If you are looking for a bright and airy condo unit conveniently located near the city center, this three story Hayward CA condo for sale checks off all the boxes of your must haves.
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With 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with approximately  1,700 square feet of living space, this Hayward CA condo for sale features an open floor plan concept fit for modern living and entertaining.  
Perfect for year-round living, this condo also makes a great investment property.
Entertain and relax in this condo’s spacious living area
You’ll be impressed by how bright and spacious this condo’s interior is. The light neutral tone on the walls and big windows  reflect the light streaming into this home, giving it an inviting and warm appeal.
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Dark wood laminate flooring complements the light walls and exudes elegance. The neutral walls and gleaming wood floors create a perfect canvas for any design and furniture you’ll furnish it with.
If you love entertaining, this living space is a great place to entertain. It is spacious enough to hold a group of people without feeling cramped. The open layout ensures you can extend the entertaining area.
A richly finished kitchen for your personal enjoyment
Who would not be motivated to learn to cook when you have such a fabulous eat- in kitchen?
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This condo’s kitchen features solid counters, stainless steel appliances and plenty of storage spaces! You will not run out of space for your small appliances anymore.
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Set a small dining table beside this kitchen to be more efficient and save space!
A bright and well-appointed master bedroom with a balcony
What better way to end the day than to step into your own sanctuary and relax on your soft, comfy bed?
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You get all that and more in the master bedroom of this condo for sale in Hayward. The carpet floor is enticing, inviting you to sink your tired feet on its warm embrace.
Pull the curtains back and look out your floor-to-ceiling windows to gaze at the neighborhood and the clear blue sky.
Start the day right by doing warm ups in this large bedroom.
One of the best things about condo living is most master’s bedroom get their own private balcony, and this condo has one.
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Good sized and sun-drenched, you can set it with some outdoor furniture and camp here when the weather is great.
The master bathroom is bright and contemporary. You get a walk-in shower with separate tub, huge vanity mirror, plenty of storage spaces, and bright new lights.
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There’s also a space for your washing machine, dryer and a laundry closet.
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A two-car garage rounds up the features of this Hayward condo.
Enjoy the convenience of being in a desirable location
Paseo Place is a brick and stucco building lined with trees and plants. There are benches and seating areas distributed throughout the frontage, creating a park-like setting.
If you love to run or jog, this is a great place to warm up. It is also a nice meeting place with friends for an early morning gym workout.
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There is also a basketball court for those who enjoy the game. It’s also a good way to break some sweat after staying in your air-conditioned office the whole day.
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This condo offers a well-rounded lifestyle. Best of all, it is just minutes away from shopping and dining options! You can have your pick of great dining on Mission Boulevard, just a two minute walk away.
If you are a commuter, BART station is just over a five minute walk away, and there’s a bus stop on D street in front of this condo.
What are you waiting for? Grab this chance to own this condo. Visit http://www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com/ to know more about it. Make it yours for ONLY $565,000.
Call me, Rhonda Fee at (952) 200-0827. I am happy to assist you in finding the best home.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view 22812 Paseo Pl Hayward CA 94541 | Condo for Sale on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxAyNPOefLg&feature=youtu.be
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What Do I Ask A Real Estate Agent in Pleasanton CA about Listing My Home for Sale?
Putting your Pleasanton home up for sale is a major decision.
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Your home is probably your biggest financial investment. Entrusting one of the largest financial transactions you’ll make to a person you have only met a few times can be difficult. This is the reason many home sellers would rather work with an agent they know.
However, you should know that not all listing agents are equal.
When it comes to an important and major investment like your home, it must be placed in the hands of a reliable and trustworthy real estate agent. The listing agent’s expertise should also be taken into account.
Be a proactive seller. Clarify things with your real estate agent. Ask questions. You want to ensure the sale of your Pleasanton home will be as smooth and stress-free as possible.
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To know more about the real estate agent and his/her plans to market your home, here are some questions you can ask.
a. Do you work part-time or full-time? Though there is nothing wrong with working with a part-time agent but you can expect more time and commitment from a full-time agent.
b. How long have you been working as a real estate agent in Pleasanton? The years of experience are less importance than the years working in the local market.
You want someone who knows Pleasanton’s real estate market like the back of their hand. Why? Because your home has a better chance of being sold successfully if the agent has been selling homes in the area for at least two years.
In my case, I have been working in the Pleasanton market for a long time. I became a licensed agent in 2004 and six years after, I got my broker’s license and opened my own business.
In 2014 and 2015, I received the Grand Master’s Achievement Award from the Bay East Association of Realtors. It is an award given only to the top real estate sellers in Pleasanton.
c. How will you market my home? This is a question all sellers MUST ask.
You want to know the specific plan of the agent to sell your home successfully. There should be a solid plan more than putting up the for sale sign in the yard, or producing flyers.
There are methods and techniques to market your Pleasanton home for sale, and some are more effective than others, so talk to your agent about the best methods to utilize.
d. How strong is your online presence? A strong online presence is crucial for a good listing agent.
These days, most buyers do online research before they actually begin visiting homes. If your real estate agent is not using the latest available technology, you should seriously consider switching to one who does.
You can also know more about the agent through the testimonials and reviews on their site. Google their name and see how well they do compared to other agents.
e. How does the selling process get from start to finish?
Part of being a proactive seller is knowing the details of the processes. There will be bumps along the way, but when you have a great real estate agent to guide you, and you have already learned what to anticipate, you and your real estate agent will manage well together.
When you ask these questions to your real estate agent, you will have a better chance of successfully putting your Pleasanton CA home up for sale.
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**In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What Do I Ask A Real Estate Agent in Pleasanton CA about Listing My Home for Sale? on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7Fi-jHZKZw&feature=youtu.be**
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What are Houses Like Mine in Pleasanton CA Selling For?
When you are considering putting your Pleasanton home up for sale, you have probably wondered how your home compares to the other homes being sold in your area.
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Perhaps you have also wondered if you are putting the right price on your home.
Knowing the market in your area plays a big part in the calculation of your home’s equity. You don’t want to price it higher than other homes for sale or else it’ll sit around for years. However, you don’t want to price it lower than other homes and lose out on a good deal for your home. You need to have just the right price to attract buyers, while keeping your interests in check.
This means scoping out the comparables in your neighborhood. And the most effective way is to enlist the assistance of an expert real estate agent like me - Rhonda Fee.
As a professional real estate agent, I can give you a comparative market analysis or CMA, a report that shows you the comparable homes sold within the last 12 months in your neighborhood.
It also reflects the active homes for sale in Pleasanton and the pending list, homes that are sold but have not yet closed. And it also has the expired listings, homes that are not sold within the listing period.
Having the CMA as a resource is advantageous and beneficial because it can help you decide on the right amount to sell your home.
It is less hassle for you because you do not need to go to the different homes being sold in your area and interview the new owners. It ensures you have the updated and accurate information about the recent real estate transactions in your community.
With the information included in the CMA, you can correctly price your home.
Before proceeding to selling your home, here’s the latest sales and trends in Pleasanton.
This chart is taken from https://bayeast.org/community-info/community-info/pleasanton/, the website of the association of REALTORS® in Pleasanton. It reflects the number of active listings, sold homes and pending units from April 2016 to April of this year.
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As you can see, since the start of this year, the number of homes being sold is higher than the number of active listings. As of last month, all listed 20 single family homes were sold!
This was not the case last year. From April to October, sales were a little slow, but rose suddenly in November and December.
If you look at the other charts and tables on the website, under the Housing Market Information Current Report, you will also see a favorable trend of home selling in Pleasanton.
This means if you sell your home now with the help of an experienced real estate agent, you have a very high chance of selling your home!
If you are in a hurry to put your Pleasanton home up for sale, now is the best time to do it. Contact me and together we can discuss the best price for your home.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What are Houses Like Mine in Pleasanton CA Selling For? on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phe_kuWIcBo&feature=youtu.be
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How Much Can I Sell My House For?
This is a question I get all the time. And I deal with each one differently because each house is unique and special, like your home.
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How are we able to aim for an accurate value of your home?
You spent time and invested in your home so it is fair to ask this question. Let’s consider these things before we put a price on your Pleasanton home for sale. How is your home structure?
Our tendency is to overlook some things when we see that they are already outdated or when they are no longer appealing.
When certain things do not utilize their usage, we may start disregarding them. We may even feel they have depreciated or lost their value.
The good news is, some people may think otherwise and will still find these things interesting or important.
The good thing about renovating is we are able to restore something old to a great state again. 
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This is where getting the service of an experienced REALTORⓇ, like me Rhonda Fee, is beneficial. I have the knowledge, skills and the eye to know the accurate worth of your home.
It is similar to send our kids to school. We know we have the ability to teach them but we allow them to be taught by school teachers because we know these educators spent years in school to study their profession.
It is important to know that teachers still need to work hand in hand with parents. Same thing when you buy or sell your home. We still need to work together with you so we can get the result that you want.
Rest assured that having me means you’re being led in the right direction. These are some of the things you need to know from a real estate expert and personal home value estimator:
Does your home need remodeling? 
If it does, then that’s something you need to consider. Home remodels may cost you $20,000 to as much as $40,000 depending on how many square feet your home is.
The exterior of your home gives buyers the first impression on how they will view the interior.  That is why you need to make the front entrance clean and inviting. Your door may be worn or faded and need to be repainted.  Trim bushes and improve items that show signs of wear.
What do you need to repair?
You need to give your home the proper grooming from lawn, landscaping, the planted trees that complement your home your carpets. Everything that we can see.
Clean the carpeting or replace it if needed. Repair sticking windows and doors, damaged cabinet drawers, loose knobs, and defective light switches. Check and repair clogged bathtubs and showers.  Then take note if you upgraded your kitchen. 
Next, we will talk about comparable market prices. I can help you maximize your home’s value by preparing it before the open house.
One thing that we need to avoid is having your house on the market long. We need to give it a speedy sale. Do not worry, I will be with you on this meaningful milestone of your life.
Just let me know when you are ready to talk to me, Rhonda Fee. Call me at 925-200-0827.
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Please click the link below to view How Much Can I Sell My House For? on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf75Wew91eQ&feature=youtu.be
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What’s My Pleasanton CA Home Value?
Home value estimators don't know what kinds of home improvements you have done.In this important article, you will learn about the best methods to figure out your home value in Pleasanton. I will cover online assessment tools, ways to improve your value, how market conditions affect your value, and more.
What's the Best Way To Find My Home's Value?
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I will show you how most of the online home value estimators, though convenient and easy, are not always accurate and reliable in terms of their results.
It’s a fact that selling your Pleasanton home for sale is not an easy as it may appear.
First of all, you’ll have to know the real estate market around your home and area. Is the real estate business booming or is it quiet at the moment? There are so many technicalities involved in the process of estimating the equity of your Pleasanton property before you actually arrive at a rough estimate of it’s value.
If you are a homeowner and struggling with this problem, you most likely started your home value search on the internet.
The internet provides an easy way for all home sellers to put a price tag on their homes for sale. They do it through what we know as "online home value estimator software".
These sites boast of easy and fast results but that does not mean correct and accurate.
Yes. As an expert in real estate, I can say that those home value estimators are not giving your Pleasanton home the price it deserves!
Here’s why:
Home value estimators are not very accurate.
Remember those times in school where you tried to solve a problem as fast as you can and ended up getting the wrong answer? This is similar to automated home value estimators.
These computer programs, although quite amazing, actually have flaws in them. One is that they sacrifice accuracy for the sake of convenience.
Sites like these highly rely only on data gathered from the public, they also gather data from information of what has been reported to your county property tax assessor's office.
So what happens if there is no data or if the data is not enough? Well, one thing’s for sure. That is the face of disappointment you’ll have when you see the inaccurate pricing when you put your house up for sale solely based on this data.
Don’t rely too heavily on these free evaluation sites. If you look closely at the word “home value estimators”, you’ll find the word “estimators”.
They only “estimate”. Chances are, they’ll be estimating up, or worse, down.  But whatever the result may be, it’s a guarantee that they are not accurate.
Online instant home value sites can't see your house.
Of course, they can’t! Although online home value estimators might be able to pull up information regarding your house and what’s inside, they won’t be able to see the whole picture.
What if you installed a new deck recently?
What if you updated the kitchen and all the appliances in it just yesterday?
Your Pleasanton home for sale will only be priced right if everything in it is considered, and more importantly, seen.
Home value estimators don't know what kinds of home improvements you have done.
In order for you to be able to sell your Pleasanton home for the most amount of money in the shortest period of time, you will need to have the most accurate current market analysis ( CMA) on your property.
Everything counts. Home improvements in areas like the living room, master bedroom, kitchen, and bathrooms matter.
There’s no way that these home value estimators are monitoring every single thing that happens inside your home and the upgrades you have done.
Those are the reasons why I believe that home value estimators are not a good choice for you to depend on. Your home is a big investment, and we don’t want you to be let down.
That’s where I come in. I am Rhonda Fee, your real estate expert from Pleasanton CA and I can help you sell your home for the price it deserves!
Take a look at my website here and let’s get ready to sell your Pleasanton home!
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I’m Rhonda Fee, broker owner of Aspire Realty licensed in the state of California. When you are my client, I handle you with the same care as if I were buying or selling a property for myself. I care about your success in buying or selling your Pleasanton, CA home. Sign up with me and let’s work together to make your real estate dreams come true! Call me now at 925-200-0827.
youtube
In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What’s My Pleasanton CA Home Value? on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfuATcG5ttQ&feature=youtu.be
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What’s My Pleasanton CA Home Value?
In this important article, you will learn about the best methods to figure out your home value in Pleasanton. I will cover online assessment tools, ways to improve your value, how market conditions affect your value, and more.
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What’s the Best Way To Find My Home’s Value?
I will show you how most of the online home value estimators, though convenient and easy, are not always accurate and reliable in terms of their results.
It’s a fact that selling your Pleasanton home for sale is not an easy as it may appear.
First of all, you’ll have to know the real estate market around your home and area. Is the real estate business booming or is it quiet at the moment? There are so many technicalities involved in the process of estimating the equity of your Pleasanton property before you actually arrive at a rough estimate of it’s value.
If you are a homeowner and struggling with this problem, you most likely started your home value search on the internet. 
The internet provides an easy way for all home sellers to put a price tag on their homes for sale. They do it through what we know as "online home value estimator software".
These sites boast of easy and fast results but that does not mean correct and accurate.
Yes. As an expert in real estate, I can say that those home value estimators are not giving your Pleasanton home the price it deserves! 
Here’s why:
Home value estimators are not very accurate.
Remember those times in school where you tried to solve a problem as fast as you can and ended up getting the wrong answer? This is similar to automated home value estimators.
These computer programs, although quite amazing, actually have flaws in them. One is that they sacrifice accuracy for the sake of convenience.
Sites like these highly rely only on data gathered from the public, they also gather data from information of what has been reported to your county property tax assessor's office.
So what happens if there is no data or if the data is not enough? Well, one thing’s for sure. That is the face of disappointment you’ll have when you see the inaccurate pricing when you put your house up for sale solely based on this data.
Don’t rely too heavily on these free evaluation sites. If you look closely at the word “home value estimators”, you’ll find the word “estimators”.
They only “estimate”. Chances are, they’ll be estimating up, or worse, down.  But whatever the result may be, it’s a guarantee that they are not accurate.
Online instant home value sites can't see your house. 
Of course they can’t! Although online home value estimators might be able to pull up information regarding your house and what’s inside, they won’t be able to see the whole picture.
What if you installed a new deck recently?
What if you updated the kitchen and all the appliances in it just yesterday?
Your Pleasanton home for sale will only be priced right if everything in it is considered, and more importantly, seen.
Home value estimators don't know what kinds of home improvements you have done. 
In order for you to be able to sell your Pleasanton home for the most amount of money in the shortest period of time, you will need to have the most accurate current market analysis ( CMA) on your property.
Everything counts. Home improvements in areas like the living room, master bedroom, kitchen, and bathrooms matter.
There’s no way that these home value estimators are monitoring every single thing that happens inside your home and the upgrades you have done.
Those are the reasons why I believe that home value estimators are not a good choice for you to depend on. Your home is a big investment, and we don’t want you to be let down.
That’s where I come in. I am Rhonda Fee, your real estate expert from Pleasanton CA and I can help you sell your home for the price it deserves!
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Take a look at my website here and let’s get ready to sell your Pleasanton home!
I’m Rhonda Fee, broker owner of Aspire Realty licensed in the state of California. When you are my client, I handle you with the same care as if I were buying or selling a property for myself. I care about your success in buying or selling your Pleasanton, CA home. Sign up with me and let’s work together to make your real estate dreams come true! Call me now at 925-200-0827.
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Pleasant Living in Pleasanton CA | Homes For Sale
Do you have plans to settle in the bay area? If yes, you should heavily consider buying a home in Pleasanton CA!
Pleasanton is an affluent city in Alameda County, California, incorporated in 1894. It is a suburb in the San Francisco Bay Area located about 25 miles (40 km) east of Oakland, and 6 miles (9.7 km) west of Livermore.
During 2013, Pleasanton CA was ranked as the third wealthiest city in terms of earnings in the united states. Not only this, it also placed fourth in a 2014 survey of America’s 50 Best Cities to Live In conducted by 24/7 Wall Street, a nationally recognized online website targeting investors and the business community.
From these statistics and data, we can conclude that Pleasanton CA is truly a wonderful place to buy a home. But for a resident like me, it’s not the numbers or the awards that make Pleasanton what it is. It’s what’s inside the city, the community, that makes it so special.
Let me share with you my thoughts on why Pleasanton CA is the best place to buy and own a home!
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Inside Pleasanton CA is a community where everyone makes an investment into the greater good
Pleasanton CA is a very family-oriented town. Most of the friendships here developed over just simple activities with kids. The community strives to maintain and active and caring atmosphere with numerous non-profits, community projects and groups that see to the needs of the town. If you’re interested in getting involved with nonprofits, there are organizations such as the Pleasanton North Rotary or the Valley Humane Society.
The school districts here are also top-notch! Students have easy access to high quality education thanks to two comprehensive high schools, Amador  Valley and Foothill. The two schools mentioned are currently ranked among the top 400 high schools in the nation!
To learn more about Pleasanton CA, visit my website at www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com.
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Pleasanton CA always keeps things fresh with its rich culture
With regular events for the community, Pleasanton CA continues to maintain that small-town feel. There are lots of parades, movies and concerts in the park. Churches also offer family activities open to the public and you’ll often see whole families walking to dinner on Main Street.
Every Saturday morning a farmers' market sets up on Angela, off Main Street. Then, from May through September, the Pleasanton Downtown Association organizes the popular First Wednesday celebration.
On every first Wednesday of those summery months, Main Street is blocked to traffic and adopts a street fair atmosphere. Each First Wednesday celebration is given a different theme and planned with related activities.
Normally, the first theme is Cinco de Mayo since May is the first month for these parties. At this local event, booths are set up in the center of the street by businesses and organizations from downtown and around the Tri-Valley.
Another tradition that is noteworthy is the Friday concerts in the park. Every Friday from June until September, a different local band is scheduled by the PDA to perform in the evenings at the Lions' Wayside Park off of First Street. The thing I like the most about this is when locals start laying out blankets in the park on Friday mornings as a way for them to reserve a spot. :)
Feel right at home with the community of Pleasanton CA 
People who move into another town or community sometimes have difficulties in merging in with the neighborhood. But here in Pleasanton CA, we make sure that anyone who decides to buy the homes for sale here and move in will feel like they’ve lived in Pleasanton for all of their life.
If you’re excited to be part of all of this, let me help you choose a home from the ones we have here that are for sale. I just know that there is a property here that will be perfect for you! Check them out right here.
With culture that is rich beyond compare, and a warm community that looks out for each and everyone, Pleasanton CA is definitely the place for you!
I’m Rhonda Fee, broker owner of Aspire Realty licensed in the state of California. When you are my client, I handle you with the same care as if I were buying or selling a property for myself. I care about your success in buying or selling your Pleasanton, CA home. Sign up with me and let’s work together to make your real estate dreams come true! Call me now at 925-200-0827.
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In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view Pleasant Living in Pleasanton CA | Homes For Sale on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/sA1glAIx8s0.
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Top 4 Steps to Take when Selling a Pleasanton CA Home
Thinking of putting your home in the market? If so, have you considered the steps involved in the home selling process?
Selling a property can be a stressful affair, especially because there are other Pleasanton CA homes for sale.
The decisions you make along the way will either save you or cost you thousands of dollars.
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Here are some things that you should do to ensure a smoother home selling process:
1. Research and plan 
You probably think that the first step that you have to do once you decide to sell your home is to make sure it looks attractive and pleasing to potential buyers. However, before you start painting the walls or fixing leaky faucets you have to research the market first and determine if it is a good time to sell.
With me, Rhonda Fee, as your trusted real estate agent, you can get a comprehensive free market analysis in Pleasanton CA.
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Comparing your home with other similar Pleasanton homes for sale is the only way to truly determine the right list price.
You should also determine your budget and identify where you intend to move next.
Sounds daunting? Don’t worry. I will help you along your journey so it won’t be so daunting of a task on you during your busy days.
2. Find your papers
Before enticing potential buyers, another important task that you have to do is locate all the important papers. Documents about the operating manuals for your appliances and HVAC system and notes about the paint colors you used on your walls are important to have on hand.
While you are at it, make sure you have any applicable warranties and your old utility bills. Collect key documents including your title, survey, mortgage and insurance.
3. Make the emotional break
It is perfectly normal for you to have a deep emotional connection to your home. After all, the home holds many special memories. In fact most sellers and real estate agents would agree that one of the most important steps before selling your property is being able to bid it farewell and no longer see it as your home.
With my years of experience as a Pleasanton CA real estate agent, I will be able to help you emotionally prepare for the sale and guide you through the process every step of the way.  
4. Have me, Rhonda Fee, as your real estate agent
Having a competent and experienced agent who has solid track record in dealing with homes for sale Pleasanton makes all the difference to your listing, and ultimately your sale.
As a trusted real estate agent, I can guide you on how to improve your home’s presentation. I can also tell you what buyers expect in your particular market and at your home’s price point.
With years of experience, I can help you save time and energy, and get your home sold quickly for a good price.
Check out www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com if you need assistance in selling your Pleasanton CA home or need help knowing where to start.
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If you cannot view this video, click here to get to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phJx8J8kODY&feature=youtu.be
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What to Ask When Interviewing a Del Prado Real Estate Agent
What to Ask When Interviewing a Del Prado Real Estate Agent
Selling your home to buyers looking for Del Prado Pleasanton homes for sale is not easy. Having an experienced and hardworking real estate agent by your side can make the home selling process smoother. To find the right agent, you need to probe deeper and ask a wide range of questions before making any decision.
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Here are five questions that sellers should ask prospective real estate agents:
1. Do you have experience in selling homes in Pleasanton and what is your success rate?
Although it may seem like an obvious place to start, many sellers still neglect to ask potential agents about their work experience. Though a new real estate agent can certainly be motivated and eager to please, sellers should look for an agent who has a good and established track record in dealing with real estate for sale in Pleasanton. A professional with years of experience will have the knowledge and skill to comfortably handle Del Prado transactions from listing to closing.
2. What is the price range of the homes you have sold?
Asking this question will help you determine if the agent is familiar with how to market your Del Prado home for sale. While you might already have a figure in mind for your home’s price, inquiring about the range of homes that the agent has sold will indicate whether he or she typically represent homes in that price range.
3. How will you communicate with me?
During the home selling process, you will be hearing from your agent often. Make sure to discuss their means of communication and how often they communicate with their clients prior to hiring an agent. You can verify what the agent says by looking at how he or she has communicated with you thus far. If the agent has not shown any respect for your preferences, has failed to follow up, or has been sloppy with emails and texts, then you better start interviewing someone else.
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4. What are the negative aspects of my home?
You know an agent is the right one if he or she could name several potential drawbacks to selling your home. This could include repairs, location, and other important details. Do not look for someone who gives you a rainbows and unicorns response. Seek out a real estate agent with a realistic but tactful approach.
5. How much do you charge? Are you willing to negotiate?
This question does not mean that you are going for the cheapest agent. As a seller, you have know what is included in the agent’s fees. Remember that you are looking for a good negotiator and value for your money. A good agent will have no difficulty in justifying his or her price.
Check out http://www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com for more home selling ideas, and for a free market evaluation of your home in Del Prado.
If you are looking for a Pleasanton luxury REALTOR® who can help you sell or buy your dream luxury home, call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. You can also text 925-660-7110 with any of these codes: seller411, buyer411 or homesearch. With my extensive experience and knowledge of the Pleasanton luxury real estate market, combined with a track record of satisfied clients, your next transaction will be the best move you’ve ever made!
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