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What’s the Best Way To Find Out Your Home’s True Value?



What you need to know about our normalizing real estate market, including home prices, supply, and more.



 

Ever wonder how much your home is actually worth? Whether you're thinking about selling, refinancing, or just curious, knowing your home’s true value is essential. But here’s the issue—many homeowners rely on the wrong sources and leave money on the table. Most people turn to quick online estimates, but those tools can be off by tens of thousands of dollars. If your home is priced too high, buyers may overlook it. Price it too low, and you’re walking away from potential profit. And when refinancing, an inaccurate valuation could mean missing out on thousands in equity. So, how do you ensure you’re working with the right number? Having helped countless homeowners maximize their home’s value, I can tell you this: understanding your home’s worth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making informed financial decisions. There are three key ways to determine your home’s true value: 1. Comparative market analysis. This is a professional assessment done by a real estate expert—like me! A CMA compares your home to similar recently sold homes in your area, factoring in size, features, location, and market trends. It’s free and far more accurate than online tools.

"Websites like Zillow and Redfin provide quick estimates, but you shouldn’t rely on them alone."

2. Professional appraisal. A licensed appraiser provides an unbiased valuation, often required for refinancing or loans. They assess your home’s condition, upgrades, and market comps. It’s the most precise method but comes at a cost of a few hundred dollars. 3. Online valuation tools and research. Websites like Zillow and Redfin provide quick estimates, but you shouldn’t rely on them alone. Cross-check multiple sources and look at recently sold homes that closely match yours for a more accurate picture. Which is the best option for you? If you’re selling, a CMA gives you an accurate market value. If you’re refinancing, an appraisal is necessary. And if you’re just curious, online tools can be a starting point—but always verify with expert insight. If you’re thinking of selling or refinancing and want a precise, expert-backed valuation, let’s talk. I offer a free, no-obligation home valuation to help you make the best decision. Just call or email me to get started.

What Do Home Sellers Need To Reveal in Disclosures?

 

Going over everything you need to disclose when selling your home, from location-specific information, material defects, and more.



 

Are you selling your home this year? If so, you’ve probably wondered what exactly you need to disclose to potential buyers. Seller disclosures are more important than ever in 2025, and understanding them is key to avoiding legal headaches and closing deals quickly. Transparency isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a necessity if you want to be legally protected. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about seller disclosures to ensure a smooth and successful home sale: 1. Material defects. As a seller, you’re required to disclose any known material defects that could impact your property’s value or safety. This includes issues like foundational cracks, roof leaks, or pest infestations. Even if you’ve repaired these problems, it’s essential to disclose them. Buyers need a full picture of the property’s history so they can make informed decisions. Transparency builds trust with buyers and helps prevent disputes later on. If they discover hidden issues after the sale, it could lead to legal challenges that no one wants.

"The golden rule of seller disclosures is simple: when in doubt, disclose." 

2. Repairs and property condition. Whether it’s structural problems, plumbing repairs, or past flooding, sellers must document and disclose these issues even if they’ve already been resolved. Buyers have a right to know what they’re walking into. By being upfront about the property’s condition and repair history, you’re not just protecting yourself from future complications; you’re also showing buyers that you’ve taken proper care of the home. Honesty here can go a long way in building trust and confidence. 3. Environmental and neighborhood factors. Disclosures go beyond your home’s four walls. Sellers are also responsible for sharing information about the surrounding environment. This could include things like being in a flood zone, nearby industrial activity, or contaminated soil. It’s also a good idea to let buyers know about neighborhood-specific concerns. Providing this context allows buyers to make an informed decision and shows that you’re committed to transparency, which can set the tone for a positive and cooperative transaction. The golden rule of seller disclosures is simple: when in doubt, disclose. Failing to do so could result in costly legal issues that are both time-consuming and stressful. If you’re unsure about what needs to be disclosed or have other questions about selling your home, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out by phone or email to make your selling process smooth and stress-free. Transparency is the foundation of a successful sale, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Southern California Housing Market Update for January 2025

 

Going over home prices, interest rates, and what it all means for you.



 

As we start the new year, I start getting questions about whether now is the right moment to enter the market. To answer these questions, today, I’m breaking down the latest stats and info from Southern California’s housing market: Current market supply. Redfin says that the supply of homes nationwide is at its highest level since the pandemic. This is good because we’re getting more active properties on the market. Orange County market data. In our local area, active properties on the market are low, with only 2,694 homes averaging around $2.7 million, but the actual average is closer to $1.4 million. This shows that high-priced homes are affecting the overall numbers. The average days on market have decreased to 30 to 50 days, down from 60 to 70 days a couple of months ago, with an average close price of $1.5 million and a median close price of $1.161 million. Opportunities for home sellers. If you’re considering selling your home, now is a great time due to strong buyer demand. Many pre-approved buyers are ready to buy but can’t find enough homes. Whether you want to leave California, downside, or cash in on your equity built over the last 5 to 25 years, it’s a good moment to list your home.

"Many properties are ready to go and are turnkey—exactly what buyers want." 

If you’re a buyer, we can help you find a property that meets your needs, whether you want a single-level home or something else. Many homes are ready to move in and turnkey, which is exactly what most buyers are looking for. Interest rates and market conditions. In terms of financing, interest rates have decreased and now range from 6% to 7% for VA, FHA, and jumbo loans. We can connect you with great lenders if you need help with financing. For example, in San Clemente, where I’ve lived for many years, there are currently 77 active listings with an average list price of $3.1 million and a median list price of around $1.995 million. This area is in high demand and shows how the market is moving. Why choose us? Last year, First Team Real Estate had the most sales out of all brokerages, with over 2,785 homes sold. We have more than 2,000 agents ready to help you. If you want to get your house sold for the best price in the shortest time and under the best terms possible, please reach out to me via phone, text, or email. My contact details are (619) 379-7664 and kwsmith3443@gmail.com. I’m always here to help.