Danielle Negroni
Licensed Realtor
Coastal Premier Properties

Why Now is a Great Time to Buy a Home in San Diego

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If you’ve been waiting for a sign that now is a great time to buy a home in San Diego, this is it! We are currently experiencing the Real Estate Trifecta of perfect home-buying conditions: increasing inventory, homes spending more days on the market, and low interest rates. But how does this Real Estate Trifecta really affect you as a prospective home buyer? 

Increasing Inventory

If you’re in the market to buy a home, increasing inventory is a very good thing especially if you’re looking to buy in one of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods. Unlike years past where too many buyers competed for too few homes, buyers today have a lot more properties to pick from. While some homes still receive multiple offers, overall there is less competition. This is particularly true over the past few weeks with the recent surge of listings.

Longer Days on Market

Across the county, homes are taking 6% longer to sell than they were a year ago. While that increase might not seem like much, homes now spend an average of 35 days on the market – too long for some sellers. In an effort to get their home into escrow, many sellers resort to lowering their asking price. This is good news for you! Not only will you potentially pay less for your home, the sellers may be willing to further negotiate with you to get the property under contract. 

Low Interest Rates

While the Federal Reserve initially planned to raise interest rates over the course of this year, at its March meeting the Fed announced that short-term interest rates will instead remain unchanged for the remainder of 2019. Again, this is good news for you! As of writing, the average 30-year fixed rate is hovering just above 4.0% – still historically low. And the lower the interest rate, the more home you can afford to buy. 

While I can safely say that the Real Estate Trifecta will make this spring and summer an amazing time to buy, it’s anybody’s guess what the future will hold beyond this time. So don’t wait – call me at (858) 735-5767 to get started today!

Should You Buy a House in 2019?

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If there is one thing that is certain about real estate, it is that it is ever-changing.  With the New Year, we are already seeing some shifts in the housing market. If you’ve been thinking of buying a home in San Diego, 2019 is the year to take the next step – it’s definitely a great time to buy! Here’s why:

We’re Heading Towards a Buyer’s Market

Since August, experts have predicted that after years of a seller’s market, we are beginning to shift in favor of prospective homebuyers. Many areas around the country have merely hit a tipping point where buyers are either unable to or unwilling to pay the prices sellers are asking. Which has resulted in homes staying on the market longer and some sellers slashing their asking price to get their property into escrow. Though home prices in San Diego County are still up 6.2% from last year, home price growth is predicted to slow over the next year as buyers gain more bargaining power.

There’s More Available Inventory

After years of low inventory conditions, buyers are starting to get some relief finally. Homes are spending more time on the market (the average for San Diego County is 34 days) and many sellers, perhaps sensing the change in the market, are in a hurry to put their home up for sale. Both these things work to your advantage as a home buyer. While inventory hasn’t yet increased dramatically, in the months to come buyers should have a bit more to choose from across all price points including at the low end. With home prices higher than they have been in recent years, many prospective investors are looking outside San Diego to make their purchases – which is good news if you’re a first-time homebuyer.

Interest Rates Are Still Low

Despite planned rate hikes by the Federal Reserve this year, interest rates are still comparatively low. You can check out today’s rate on Bankrate.com here, but as of writing, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed loan was only 4.5%. With more planned rate hikes on the way, these low-interest rates won’t last forever.  As interest rates rise, they affect how much home you can afford. For more on how interest rates change affordability, click here. In a market like San Diego’s, buyers need all the help they can get!

San Diego County Has Higher Loan Limits for 2019

If you’re planning to take out a mortgage to buy a home, you should know that FHA and conforming loan limits have been raised for San Diego County in 2019. The new loan limit for 2019 is $690,000 for a single-family home, townhome, or condo. Again, this is excellent news for homebuyers as it raises the upper limit for a “standard” loan. If you need to take out a loan for more than $690,000, you would be looking at what’s called a jumbo loan which will have its own qualifications as these loans are viewed as a bit riskier for the bank. By raising the FHA and conforming loan limits, more buyers will be able to buy without having to also qualify for a jumbo loan.

If you have any questions about buying a home or selling your current one, please don’t hesitate to call! This is the year to buy the San Diego home of your dreams!

(All San Diego County housing stats were sourced from CRMLS Infosparks data on February 2nd, 2019)

Interior Design Trends 2019

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Home design is constantly evolving and a new year always brings new trends. Sites like Houzz and Realtor.com have published their own lengthy trend reports for the year ahead, but I’ve distilled those down to this short list of some of my favorite interior design trends for 2019!

Quartz Countertops

Quartz was a popular countertop choice in 2018! So much so that prices have risen over the last year. If you really love the look of quartz countertops and plan to install them in 2019, make sure you budget accordingly for the expense!

 

Statement Tile Backsplashes

Tile backsplashes for the kitchen and bath are nothing new, but this year, the backsplash is getting an upgrade. In 2019, expect to see lots of full-wall tile backsplashes in the kitchen and bathrooms. Want to try this at home? Create a feature wall using geometric patterned tiles to give your kitchen a fresh and on-trend look.

 

Mixing Fabrics

Mixing fabrics, patterns, and textures makes a room look cozy, lived-in, and even a bit eclectic. Not sure about this trend? Try adding pillows with different patterns and fabrics. If you end up not liking the look, you can easily change out the pillows. And if you do love the mixed fabric look, purchase a small love seat or armchair in a fun print. The key to making this trend work is to use a similar color palette throughout the space to keep everything cohesive.

 

Colored Shiplap

Shiplap has been popular in recent years thanks to Joanna Gaines, and it isn’t going anywhere in 2019. Though it is getting a fresh, colorful update – white shiplap is being edged out by other color options like navy blue, sage green, and even grey. Fortunately, if you’ve got shiplap in your home, all you need to update it is a can of paint!

 

Updated Subway Tile

Subway tile continues to remain a popular trend for homes, but as with most trends, designers find new ways to update and improve it as time goes on. Designers are now gravitating to large-format subway tiles arrange in unique patterns. Think herringbone, chevron, and basket weave patterns.

 

Natural Wood

After years of white kitchens and painted wood furniture, people are increasingly choosing wood in natural stains to create a warmer, more welcoming space. This trend is easiest to incorporate in the form of furniture, but if you’re going to be installing new floors in your home, consider a lighter, more natural shade of wood rather than one that has been heavily stained.

 

Wallpaper

While this isn’t the wallpaper of decades past, use a fun print in the bathroom or laundry room to bring a little color into your space. There are hundreds of designs on the market so you’re sure to find the perfect pattern for your home. You can also use wallpaper to fake the look of wood or brick, which can add major style points to your home for a fraction of the cost.

 

If you’re planning on doing any home remodeling projects this year, I highly recommend you spend some time checking out the model homes in your area – this is the best way to see how the latest trends are being implemented. And if you’d like any design advice, give me a call – I’m happy to offer suggestions and refer you to local contractors to get the work done!

San Diego Real Estate Market Report: Summer 2018

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Earlier this year, I published a blog speculating on whether home prices in San Diego County were about to peak. If you missed the blog, you can check it out here. As we head into fall, there are warning signs that home prices in San Diego have now indeed peaked. Homes are staying on the market for longer, many don’t receive multiple offers, and many sellers are forced to reduce their price in order to get the home under contract.

While prices in many cities have statistically increased in 2018, moving forward, it’s unlikely the steady growth on the graphs below will continue.

So what does that mean for you as a San Diego County homeowner? It means that if you’ve been waiting to sell your home, now may be the time to prepare for a sale. It’s anticipated that our inventory will reflect a Buyer’s market by 2020 and this leaves one more strong selling season before prices reflect such a change. If you want to maximize the sales price of your home, call me at (858) 735-5767 to get started!

 

 

San Diego County

In San Diego County the median sales price for a detached single family home is up 7.1% from August 2017, making the median price now $637,000. The median price for townhomes and condos has also increased by 7% from last year, making the median sales price $417,250.

 

Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley has seen significant increase in the median sales price of homes over the last year as well. The median price for a detached single family home is now $1,315,525. This increase is up 7.8% from August 2017. Townhomes and condos are now selling for an average price of $615,500, an increase of 4.3% in the last 12 months.

 

Del Mar

The median sales price for a home in Del Mar is $2,000,000. This is a 7.5% increase from August 2017! A condo or townhome in Del Mar now sells for an average price of $1,080,000. This is up 4.9% from the previous year.

 

La Jolla

La Jolla has also seen an increase in home prices since this time last year. The price of a detached home has increased by 5.9%, making the median sales price $2,150,000. Townhome and condo prices have also gone up 4.8% since August 2017, bringing the median sales price to $712,750.

 

Solana Beach

Home prices in the city of Solana Beach are up 3.9% from last year, making the median price for a detached single family home now $1,535,000. But townhome and condo prices in Solana Beach have really skyrocketed! The median price for a condo has increased 13.5% since August 2017, making the average sales price $952,500.

 

[All data sourced from Sandicor MLS on September 13th, 2018]

5 Great San Diego Hikes

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With cooler fall weather on the way, now is the perfect time to try out a new hiking spot in San Diego! We have so many great trails to choose from, but these five include some of my personal favorites that I’ve done with my family and friends:

Torrey Pines State Reserve

(La Jolla)

 

Does it get more San Diego than hiking by the beach? But unlike other beach “hikes”, the trails at Torrey Pines are actually challenging and you will definitely work up a sweat. While spending time in the reserve, you’ll be treated to views of the ocean, maritime chaparral, and the rare Torrey Pine.

The most popular trail in the reserve is the Beach Trail, which offers beach access via a flight of stairs. Once on the sand, you can climb in and around the rocks to explore tide pools filled with living sea creatures.

For an easier hike, the Guy Fleming Trail and Razor Point Trail meander through the coastal vegetation near the top of the cliffs and offer great scenic views.

 

Mt. Woodson

(Poway)

 

Mt. Woodson is more commonly known as Potato Chip Rock – named for the peculiar rock formation that sits at the top of the mountain.

Most people access the trail from the Lake Poway side. If you go on a weekend or holiday and you are not a resident of Poway, you will need to pay to park in the lot. The trail itself is an out and back trail that is 6.9 miles round trip. It is long, strenuous, and rugged so make sure you are dressed appropriately and bring plenty of water!

There’s usually a line at the top to take pictures on Potato Chip Rock so go early or be prepared to wait. Getting on and off the rock can also be a bit difficult and is not recommended if you are afraid of heights.

For a shorter hike to Potato Chip Rock, you can also access Mt Woodson from Highway 67 going toward Ramona.

 

 

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

(Poway)

 

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve is also located in Poway. Situated north of Lake Poway, it offers access to the Mt Woodson trail and also to Lake Ramona.

This is another out and back trail that only has one access point from Espola Road. You will start on the Green Valley Truck Trail, which takes you all the way out to a sign for the Ramona Dam. If you turn left at the sign for the dam and go up the hill towards Lake Ramona, the entire route will be 4.8 miles round trip.

Along the Green Valley Truck Trail you will also have the option to turnoff for the Mt Woodson trail. Going this way adds about another mile onto the Mt Woodson hike.

Finally, there is a third small trail called the Creekside Trail that branches off near the trailhead and parallels the Green Valley Truck Trail. If you take this route, know that it is off-limits to dogs and horses.

 

 

Mission Trails Regional Park

(San Carlos)

 

Mission Trails Regional Park offers visitors more than sixty miles of trails to explore. They also the host the 5-Peak Challenge which encourages hikers to climb to the summits of Cowles Mountain, Pyles Peak, Kwaay Paay, South Fortuna, and North Fortuna.

The most famous of all the trails in the Mission Trails system is Cowles Mountain, which offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, mountains, Lake Murray, and the ocean from the peak. This trail is normally very busy so come early to find parking. Or for a fun change of pace, bring a flashlight and hike to the peak under a full moon!

 

 

Double Peak

(San Marcos)

 

If you live further north, Double Peak in San Marcos offers a nice challenging hike with breathtaking views from the park at the summit! Round trip, you will cover more than 4.5 miles from the parking at Discovery Lake.

This is more of a residential hike as it brings you along the back of some of the neighborhoods in San Marcos, but it is still a real trail that offers a great workout and it’s not that crowded. There’s no shade on this hike though, so start early and bring plenty of water!

 

Which hike in San Diego County is your favorite? Leave me a comment below!

3 Common Inspections You’ll Have When You Purchase a Home in San Diego

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Once your offer has been accepted and you’re in escrow to buy a home, you’ll have a certain amount of time to inspect the property and remove contingencies. Your agent will guide you through what inspections are necessary depending on your unique situation. There are some inspections that are common to almost all home purchases in San Diego and should be completed for peace of mind.

Home Inspection

A home inspector will review the structure of the home and all of its associated systems. The home inspector is often the first person to inspect the home during the escrow process, as they often identify potential problems in the property that will require a follow-up inspection by a specialist. For example, a home inspector may feel that there’s an issue with the plumbing and recommend you call a plumber to see what the problem is, how to fix it, and what it will cost.

The home inspector will give you an inspection report for your review and records. Following the inspection, you have the option to negotiate with the seller the completion of any of the repairs, a credit for the work, or in the alternative pay for the repairs yourself. If none of these options are acceptable, you can elect to cancel the escrow.

If you are securing a loan, on the property, there are some issues a lender will require to be addressed and fixed prior to closing. It’s important to have strong representation at this time of the transaction because many repairs are costly and you don’t want them overlooked.

 

Termite Inspection

All homes in San Diego should have a termite inspection, unless waived on the purchase contract. If you are getting a loan, most lenders will require a termite clearance (meaning any problems on the property have been addressed and treated) prior to closing escrow.

The seller typically pays for the cost of the termite inspection. The buyer will receive a copy of the termite report, which will be divided into Section 1 and Section 2 items. Section 1 items will need to be addressed in order for the home to close escrow and the seller usually pays for these Section 1 items. Section 2 items are usually covered by the buyer as they are not a requirement for the home to close escrow, but may be something the buyer wants to address in the future. The main difference between Section 1 and Section 2 items is that Section 1 usually refers to remedying active termite infestation or repairing dry rot or damage from termites. Section 2 items usually refer to conditions present in the home that could lead to a future infestation of termites, damage, or dry rot.

 

Septic/Well Inspection

 

Some homes in San Diego County have a septic system and/or a well on the property. If the home you are buying has either or both of these, you will want to get them inspected.

When the septic system is inspected, any known issues will need to be remedied by the seller in order to receive a septic system certificate that it is in good working order.

If there is a well on the property, a well inspection company will need to come out and review how the system is functioning. They will also test the water for coliform bacteria and certain metals and minerals that could be harmful to the health of your family or your home. You will receive a copy of all test results.

 

There are many other inspections available for a home (roof, pool, foundation, mold, sewer lines, roof, windows, etc) but these are three of the most common ones to consider. Every property is unique so it’s important that you work with an agent who has the knowledge and experience to guide you through the escrow process.

Thinking of buying a home in San Diego County? I would be happy to put my expertise to work for you – call (858) 735-5767 today!

3 Tips to Help You Understand What Stays With the House When You Move

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There’s so much to do between getting your home ready for sale, entering escrow, and ultimately packing up and moving out. It’s easy to make assumptions about what’s yours to keep. After all, you may have selected the window coverings and designed the built-in cabinetry. It’s essential, however, to know what contractually remains with a home upon its sale before you fill up a single box. Trust me when I say you don’t want a dispute to arise during the final walkthrough and delay closing until the issue is resolved.

Use the three tips below to avoid a misunderstanding with a buyer about what contractually remains in the home and is part of the sale:

 

What is Real Property?

Real property is defined as land and any property attached to it. Under the terms of a real estate contract, and in the context of a home sale, this means anything that’s nailed, bolted, screwed, anchored, built-in, or otherwise attached to the house.

Examples of real property include doors, windows, ceiling fans, most light fixtures, plumbing, fences, landscaping, built-in bookshelves and furniture, storage sheds, curtain rods, blinds, and so much more. The most commonly disputed items I’ve encountered are TV wall mounts, light fixtures, appliances, and window treatments. If you’re not sure what constitutes real property, ask your Realtor!

Write It In the Contract

One of the best ways to avoid a misunderstanding with a buyer of your home is to put it in writing. If there is a family heirloom, a light fixture, or an appliance you want to take (i.e., the high-end wine refrigerator) write in the contract that these specific items do not convey with the sale of your home. These so-called “fixtures” will otherwise be included in the contract and legally must remain with the house.

If You Want It, Swap It Out

I advise my Sellers if they have purchased expensive items for the home and can’t live without them, replace them before going to market. It’s important to note, however, these upgraded items are likely the reason the home may sell for more money. I wouldn’t strip the house of every upgraded fixture but instead, focus on just one or two items that may work well in your next home. After careful consideration, most of my Sellers realize that most of the things should stay.

If you’re thinking of selling, I would be happy to put my expertise to work for you! I’ve helped many sellers successfully navigate the sale of their home in San Diego County and am available to answer any questions you may have about real property, moving up, downsizing, and more. Please give me a call at (858) 735-5767!

8 Can’t-Miss Summer Activities in San Diego

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One of the perks of living in a tourist destination is that there’s always something to do, no matter what month it is. But summer is especially packed with activities that will take you from one end of the county to the other. Besides the obvious like the San Diego Fair, racetrack, and 4th of July celebrations, here are eight of my favorite activities that should be on your bucket list to experience during summer in San Diego.

 

 

Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay

No summer is complete without taking in at least one concert at Humphrey’s. This outdoor concert venue is situated on San Diego Bay between Humphreys Restaurant and Humphreys Half Moon Inn. The concerts generally take place from April to October, but summer is the ideal time to take in a musical experience at this beautiful venue. The sound is fantastic and because it’s a smaller venue, every concert feels intimate. Check the Humphrey’s 2018 concert schedule and buy tickets here.

 

Summer Nights at the San Diego Zoo

During the summer, the San Diego Zoo stays open late into the evening. From now through September 3rd, you can enjoy special after-dark experiences and entertainment that you won’t get during the day. And you’ll also get to see animals that are only active at dusk or after dark. This year’s theme is Africa. Learn more about the Nighttime Zoo here.

 

Hyatt Rooftop Cinema Club

Want to enjoy a movie in style? The Manchester Grand Hyatt’s Rooftop Cinema Club is a film experience like no other! Take in an iconic movie from your comfy deck chair and don’t worry about the noise from downtown San Diego – all guests are given wireless headphone to use during the film screening. If your attention wanders during the movie, you can take in spectacular views of America’s Finest City and San Diego Bay. Click here to see the full schedule of movies.

 

Summer Pops

During the summer, the San Diego symphony takes their concert experience outdoors! Enjoy great music while taking in views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline. The Start Spangled Pops is the series kickoff event and it concludes with a fireworks display. Or if you prefer classical music, check out Beethoven by the Bay on July 29th. Most concerts begin at 7:30pm. Click here to see the full schedule of upcoming concerts.

 

Carmel Valley Rec Center Movies in the Park

Each year, the Carmel Valley Recreation Center offers movies in the park with fun for the whole family. The games, food, and fun start each night at 6pm. On July 21st, you can enjoy the animated feature film, Coco. On August 19th, the rec center will be screening Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Movies start promptly at dusk each night. For more information about the movie nights, contact the rec center.

 

Sleepovers at the Zoo and Wild Animal Park

While you can spend the night at the San Diego Zoo or Wild Animal Park at other times of the year, there’s no better time to plan a family sleepover than during the summer. You’ll get to learn about the animals, go behind the scenes, talk to the zookeepers, fall asleep to the sound of wild animals, and more. You’ll need to make a reservation for both the Zoo and the Safari Park sleepovers so visit their websites for more information on how to book your overnight.

 

Cinema Under the Stars Hillcrest

Love classic films? Then you have to check out Cinema Under the Stars in Hillcrest! Films are screened beneath a retractable dome and if the night is a little chilly – they have infrared heating to keep you warm. The next film they are showing is Raiders of the Lost Ark, which will be shown on June 28th, 29th, and 30th and again on July 1st. All film screenings begin at 8pm. Click here to see the rest of the summer’s schedule.

 

Del Mar Powerhouse Park Summer Concerts

For one of the most unforgettable concert experiences in San Diego, mark your calendars for one of the upcoming Summer Twilight Concerts at Powerhouse Park. Bring your chairs, blankets, and beach towels and get ready to sing and dance the night away. There are concerts planned for July 10th, August 7th, and August 21st. Opening acts start at 6pm, with the headliners scheduled to come on at 7pm. Learn more here.

 

What are your favorite things to do during the summer in San Diego? Leave me a comment below!

55 and Over Communities: They’re Not What You Think

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Where did your mind go when you read the words “55 and Over Community”? Did you suddenly have visions of golf courses and bingo nights and shuffleboard and….your grandparents?

If you’re age 55 or older, you might not consider yourself retirement ready. Perhaps, however, you are ready to live among your peers and away from the typical neighborhood chaos of young families.

Today’s 55+ communities aren’t what you think they are. Many luxury active adult projects have sprung up in recent years in San Diego, offering homeowners resort-style amenities and more.

Here are 8 reasons to consider moving to a 55 and over community in San Diego:

 

 

Lower Costs

Homes and condos in a 55 and over community are usually smaller and priced less than similar homes in the area. This may give you the opportunity to buy in a more upscale area than you were able to previously afford.

 

Less Maintenance

Even if you purchase a detached home, many active adult communities will take care of some or all of your home’s exterior maintenance needs. With less square footage to take care of inside, you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying your home and new community.

 

Floorplans Designed For Your Stage in Life

Many 55 and over communities offer single story floorplans or contain the essentials like the kitchen and master suite to the main floor. You may also find homes with wider doorways and other features that are geared towards helping you age gracefully.

 

Security

Gates, restricted access, and security patrols are common features of active adult communities. If you live alone, you may enjoy moving to a community with these services.

 

Peace and Quiet

The minimum age limit of the community means that children and younger adults will only be guests of the community and as guests, will need to abide by the community rules. This might be a welcome change if you’ve previously lived in a community with a lot of children and teenagers. Think garage band.

 

Location

Most 55+ communities and certainly some of the newer projects are close to shopping, dining, entertainment, medical facilities, and more. Some active adult communities provide transportation to these nearby resources.

 

Amenities

The amenities available in 55+ communities vary wildly from project to project, but many of the newer luxury communities offer very attractive amenities. Sparkling pools, state-of-the-art gym facilities, clubhouses, BBQ pits, pickle ball, bocce ball courts, golf courses, and more. There may also be additional services offered that are geared towards an aging community like health services, housekeeping, meal preparation, and more.

Be aware that buying into an active adult community usually means you will need to pay more fees, either in the form of increased HOA dues or just general fees to cover the cost of all the amenities and community maintenance.

 

Opportunities for Socialization

One of the prime reasons people choose to move to a 55+ community is because of the opportunities to socialize and develop friendships with your neighbors. Along with the great amenities, many communities offer monthly or weekly events to get you out of the house and interacting with other people. Everything from fitness classes to yes, bingo games, help retirement-age people fill their time. Homeowners will tell you it’s the social activities they love.

When shopping for a home in an active adult community, be sure to check out their events calendar to see what kinds of activities and social outings they plan. It will be one indication if the neighborhood may be a personal fit.

 

If you are thinking of downsizing from your current home, I would love to talk to you about your next step, whether that’s buying in a 55 and over community or somewhere else. Give me a call at (858) 735-5767!

8 Things to Do When Buying a New Construction Home

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New construction homes have a certain appeal that existing homes don’t. They’ve never been lived in so you won’t have to wonder about the home’s history. You’ll have the opportunity to customize your home from the ground up, rather than trying to modify what’s already there. And you won’t have to deal with an emotional seller.

 

 

But if you’ve decided to purchase a brand new home in San Diego, there are a few things you shouldn’t forget to do:

 

  • Hire Your Own Agent

Many buyers of new construction don’t think to hire their own real estate agent – but they really should. The sales agent is being paid to represent the builder’s interests, not yours. Plus, since you’re buying the home (not selling) the builder will most likely pay your agent’s commission. So it’s really a no-brainer to hire your own agent to represent you and negotiate on your behalf!

 

  • Ask About Extras

 

Don’t assume that what you see in the model home comes standard. Ask about what’s included and not included in the advertised purchase price. If you want to pay for additional upgrades, prioritize those things you can’t easily change about the home, like square footage and lot location. You can always install different flooring or repaint later and it may be cheaper to hire your own contractor to do the work anyway. Builders often mark up the prices on upgrades. You can ask your agent to give you a ballpark estimate of what a particular update might cost. Or they can refer you to a trusted vendor who can give you an estimate.

  • Research the Community

Depending on where the builder is in construction, you may not have a clear picture of what the community will be like when it’s finished. Make sure to ask how many total homes will be built and what community amenities will be offered. You should also find out about plans for the land outside the community. If there’s empty space now, what will be there in the future? Find out if any new schools will be built and if there are plans to modify the existing roadways to accommodate the increase in traffic.

 

  • Negotiate

While most builders do not want to compromise on price, they may be willing to throw in some extras or make concessions in other ways. It never hurts to ask. Your agent will be instrumental during this negotiation phase.

 

  • Ask About Warranties

Don’t forget to ask about warranties for the things that will be installed in the home. You can’t assume because something is new that you won’t have a problem with it. Make sure you understand what’s covered and what’s not and if there’s any special process you need to follow to get repairs done in the future.

 

  • Get Everything in Writing

Just as you would if you were purchasing an existing home, get everything you’ve negotiated and agreed upon in writing. Since the home may not be built yet, it’s important that the contract explicitly spells out how the home will be completed and what will happen if the home is not finished on time.

If you don’t understand what you’re signing, this is another area where it pays to have your own agent. Your agent will be able to help explain the contract to you and if there’s anything that stands out as a red flag, they should be able identify it for you.

 

  • Shop Lenders

Builders often prefer to use their own lender, but that lender may not be the best choice for you. You should find out if there’s any incentive to use the builder’s lender and meet with them, but you should also talk to one or two other lenders to help you make a decision. Though there may be an incentive now to use the builder’s lender, if you can get a better rate elsewhere that might make better financial sense for your family in the long run.

 

  • Get a Home Inspection

Getting an independent inspection of your new home before closing is always a good idea. After all, you want to know what you’re buying and ensure that the work was done properly and up to code. Workers can make mistakes so it never hurts to hire a professional to double-check. You will want to make the time to be there for the inspection so you can hear what the home inspector has to say first-hand.

 

If you’re thinking of buying a brand new home in San Diego, I would love to tell you about the great new communities that are being built and take you to tour the model homes. And if you find one you like, I’d be happy to represent you on your purchase. Give me a call at (858) 735-5767!

My name is Danielle Negroni and I'm a licensed Realtor with over 10 years of experience buying and selling in the San Diego Coastal area.
Please let me know how I can serve you!

Call 858-735-5767 or contact me today !