The unseen costs of a home purchase are the utility costs. To help buyers make accurate comparisons of the TOTAL cost of home ownership (including utility bills), the California Energy Commission is encouraging sellers or buyers to obtain a Home Energy Rating. Why? Over 50% of homes currently for sale are considered “old stock” as [...]
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Many buyers believe that buying a foreclosure is the best way to get a bargain price. But are foreclosures really a bargain? Unlike a normal sale, bank-owned foreclosures are exempt from many of the required property disclosures because the bank never occupied the home. It is entirely up to the buyer to investigate the property [...]
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When the mortgage balance is greater than the sales price, it is a short sale and requires the mortgage lender’s approval to proceed with the transaction. Here are 6 tips to protect yourself financially and emotionally when buying a short sale. Get Help From a Short Sale Expert Not all short sales are approved. A [...]
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As you consider purchasing a home, it’s important to know the things a real estate agent can’t tell you. Real estate agents are required to show you all homes that meet your housing criteria (number of bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage, style of home, lot size and price range). Real estate agents are not permitted, under [...]
Read MoreThe neighborhood has a significant impact on the current and future value of any Contra Costa East Bay home you buy so it’s important to know some key characteristics to which you should pay attention. Quality of the schools Crime rate Traffic Sidewalks and street lighting Proximity to parks, employment, public transportation and shopping Future [...]
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Visiting Open Houses is a great way to get a sense of home prices in different market areas and neighborhoods. Here is a comprehensive resource to Search Contra Costa – East Bay Open Houses by City provided by the Contra Costa Association of Realtors. After viewing numerous Open Houses on a single day, you will [...]
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Alain Pinel Realtors
1646 N. California Boulevard
Plaza Level, Suite 101
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Wendy Cutrufelli
Broker Associate
Contra Costa Real Estate Team
DRE #01844864
