Practical posts on listing prep, showings, staging, and how to start a North County search. Use these alongside our monthly sold reports when you want the neighborhood numbers next to the checklist.

Strong financing is part of a competitive North County offer. Know your credit, document your funds, and keep your loan officer informed before you write. The dos and don’ts below are the habits that keep underwriting from stalling a purchase.

The Do’s

  • Get your credit report and know your credit score.  Find any fixable challenges that could boost your score.  It's worth real money.  Higher score means a lower rate and access to more loan programs.
  • Figure out how much for a down payment and where you will get it.  There are strict rules about the source of money you’re able to use for your down payment. Breaking any these rules can sabotage your home purchase goals.
  • Gather your financial documents and be prepared for scrutiny. Pay stubs,…

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The sand, the sun and the surf are powerful reasons to consider buying a home in the communities of Carlsbad, Oceanside, Encinitas, La Costa, Vista or San Marcos. However, buying a home with its own casita has numerous added benefits for North County San Diego homeowners.

What is a Casita?

Home with a Casita in CarlsbadA casita is a small, usually detached, living area, included with the main single family home. Although they can be attached, or semi-attached, most are separated from the main house and often have their own entrance and access for privacy. Typically designed as a comfortable suite with a full bath, some casitas are built with a basic kitchen or kitchenette as well.

Why Buy a Home with a Casita?

Buying a home with a casita makes excellent sense in terms of both…

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Our North County real estate team has been in the business since 1982 and one of the number one things we still see as a huge factor into the success of selling your home is curb appeal. Attracting a potential home buyer begins by how your home looks on the outside. While it will take some work to get your yard in tip-top shape, the outcome will be worth it.

Landscaping Tips for Selling Your HomeHere are some tips to get started to help spruce up your home:

      • Clean up the yard. Rake up all dead leaves and branches. Make sure the grass is clear of animal waste, ant hills, trash, or anything else unsightly. Your grass should look green and pristine.
      • Create beautiful, but simple landscaping. Mow the lawn and make sure any bare patches have been filled in with grass. Prune any bushes…

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Types of MortgagesHave you decided 2015 is your year to become a homeowner? Mortgage rates are at the lowest they’ve been since June 2013 and we can help you find the option that works best for you. Our North County real estate, family-owned business has led people to the home of their dreams since 1982. There are several different mortgage options to choose from if you are considering buying a new home. Below are the types and rates of mortgages available as of January 14, 2015.

Conforming Mortgage

There hasn’t been a change to loan limits backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac since 2006 and conforming loan limits remain unchanged for 2015. These two associations are legally restricted to purchase single-family mortgages with origination balances below a certain…

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Mortgage rates have plummetted in the past week.  Homeowners who have purchased in the last 18 months should review their personal situation to see if a refinance or purchase makes sense.  

For additional questions on specific rates and terms contact:

Jennifer Lund
Jennifer.lund@CaliberHomeLoans.com
8910 University center lane, suite 265 | San Diego, ca 92122
M: (760) 420-6670 - nmls#925352

As of January 14th:

30 year Jumbo 3.875% with 20% down at NO POINTS 21 day Close Guarantee~!

Conf 30 3.65% 30 yr fxd Conforming: (loan amounts under $417,000) APR 3.8%

Conf 30 HB 3.75% High Balance 3o yr fxd (loan amounts up to $546,250) APR 3.919%

Conf 15 3.0% Conforming 15 yr fxd APR 3.36%

FHA & VA 30 3.5% 30 yr fxd APR 3.52%

Conv. and Gov’t. Loan…

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