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Double Your Income with This Southern California Duplex

 

Our newly listed duplex has a large lot and potential for rental income.




 

Are you looking for an investment property in Southern California? We have a newly listed duplex that could be a good opportunity to generate steady rental income or even live in one unit while renting out the other. It is located in a prime area and has upgraded features that will attract tenants and give you a solid return on investment. This newly upgraded two-bedroom, one-bath duplex sits on a spacious 7,400-square-foot lot, offering plenty of outdoor space and potential for future expansion by adding auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs). This can be an opportunity to earn a steady income, making it an ideal investment. Currently, two tenants are paying $2,500 monthly, totaling $5,000 in monthly rent. Each side of the duplex has been upgraded with laminate flooring, warm gray paint, and spacious kitchens equipped with gas stove ranges and refrigerators. A shared laundry room is located between the two units. One unit even includes a dishwasher for added convenience. The bathrooms have also been updated, with one unit offering a full bath and the other offering a three-quarter bath.


"This could be the perfect starter property if you’re planning to invest in real estate." 

Beyond the inviting interiors, this property boasts a generous outdoor space. Both units have private patio areas, and the ample parking assignments ensure hassle-free access for residents and guests. Whether you envision living in one half and renting the other or maintaining the property as a pure investment, the potential for this duplex is endless. It is listed at $950,000 and could have a potential monthly payment of $5,500, depending on the interest rate and lending program. This could be the perfect starter property or a strategic addition to your real estate portfolio. Don't miss this opportunity to own a property in today’s market. Contact me today at (619) 379-7664 or kwsmith3443@gmail.com to schedule a private showing and discover the dual-income potential that awaits.

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Children Need You! Join Our Charity Walk this October

 

Join us as we raise awareness and funds for children battling MDS.




 

Are you wondering how you can make a difference in our community? Our team here in Orange County is inviting you to support a local charity that’s impacting the lives of children right here in our community. A local family in the San Clemente area started LiveLikeJojo.Org, an organization that has tirelessly supported children affected by Mitochondrial Deletion Syndrome. This rare condition affects about 1,000 to 4,000 children around ten years old. This disorder impairs how the body’s cells produce energy, affecting the organs and other parts of the body. Now, you, too, can be a part of this fight against mitochondrial deletion syndrome. We will sponsor this cause, and together, we’ll raise funds and awareness to benefit over 13 local hospitals. We aim to provide children with blankets, sunshine boxes, and other items vital for their overall health. We also invite you to participate in our annual walk battling mitochondrial deletion syndrome if you want to support us in person. We’re hoping to gather over 650 passionate participants to join us. 


Event Details: 

When: Sunday, October 20, 2024 Time: 8:00 a.m. Where: San Clemente Beyond this special project, we are deeply committed to giving back to the community. We're proud sponsors of the Children's Hospital Orange County, the Disneyland walk, initiatives for veterans and pets, and seasonal food and toy drives. Caring for our neighbors is at the heart of what we do. I encourage you to check out their website, livelikejojo.org, to learn more about them and how you can get involved. Your support, whether it’s volunteering, donating to Live Like Jojo Foundation, or simply spreading the word, will uplift the lives of children in need. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of children in our community. Click here to register for the event. You can also contact us by phone or email. Let's walk together for a brighter future!

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Should I Pre-Inspect My House Before Selling?





How pre-inspections can improve your home’s condition, give you leverage in negotiations, and help you sell your house faster.



 

Do you need to sell your home fast? In this market, that’s no easy task. Due to higher interest rates, home prices, and lower demand, you can’t just throw your home on the MLS and expect it to sell in a couple of days. That being said, you can still sell quickly in this market; you just need to put in a little work. That’s why I always recommend my sellers do a pre-listing inspection if they want to spend as little time on market as possible. Here are three key benefits of pre-inspecting your home: 1. You can hit the market with a clean product. The bottom line is that homes in better condition sell faster and for more money. Think about your pre-inspection like certifying a used car. Certified cars are a more desirable product, so people will be willing to pay more money faster. On the other hand, buyers will try to draw things out and get every opportunity in negotiations if your house is an unknown quantity.


"If you take care of issues upfront, buyers won’t ask for concessions at closing."

 

2. You can fix major issues before hitting the market. As an agent, I’ve seen this situation play out too many times: My client finds the perfect buyer who is willing to give them everything they want and more. However, this buyer finds some major problem during the inspection process, and the deal is off. A pre-inspection will help you find any “dealbreakers” you need to take care of ahead of time, which will protect your sale. 3. Pre-inspections give you leverage at negotiations. When you have a better product, you can ask for more concessions. Whether you want a quick sale, more money, or better terms, you need leverage to get what you want. One of the worst things that can happen during negotiations is for your buyer to use repairs as a negotiating point. By addressing issues upfront and creating more demand for your home, you can go into negotiations with a stronger position and get what you really want. Hopefully, you understand why pre-inspections are so important. If you want to sit down for a pre-listing consultation, just call or email me. It’s 100% free, and there’s no obligation to hire with me if things don’t work out or you change your mind about selling. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Should I Make Repairs Before Listing My Home?




Going over the key reasons it’s worth it to fix your home before selling.


 

Recently, a lot of sellers have been asking me, “Should I make repairs before listing my home?” The short answer is yes. While we’re still in a seller’s market, the truth is that there aren’t as many buyers as there were during the peak a few years ago. The good news is that buyers still looking to purchase a home in this environment are very serious about moving. However, due to higher interest rates and home prices, your property needs to be in great condition to stand out. That’s why today, I’m sharing three things you can do to get your home in perfect market condition before selling: 1. Have a pre-listing meeting. Meet with your agent before you list to go over which repairs are really worth it. Not every fix is worth your hard-earned money, so invest in repairs that will improve your home’s condition and net you a higher return on your investment. It might be worth it to pay for a pre-inspection before you list. This way, you can find exactly what might turn buyers away and fix it before you hit the open market.


"Home inspections are often nerve-wracking for sellers, but they don’t have to be if you do repairs before listing."

 

2. Choose between cosmetic and high-maintenance repairs. Most repairs fall into one of two categories: cosmetic repairs and high-maintenance repairs. Cosmetic repairs are usually optional and won’t be a sticking point in negotiations. However, they can net you a higher return on your investment. High-maintenance repairs take longer and require a larger investment, but they often fix major issues that need to be addressed if you want good offers from buyers. 3. Proper repairs expand your buyer pool. The condition of your home is the most important factor you can control when selling because it expands your buyer pool. In today’s market, there are fewer buyers due to interest rates and higher home prices; however, you can still attract a lot of demand with a property in good condition. If you do the proper repairs, you’ll have more offers coming in from better-qualified buyers. Work closely with your agent to create a strong marketing strategy, and you might even create a bidding war and naturally drive up your price. I always recommend sellers do repairs before listing, but it’s more important in this market than it ever has been before. If you’re wondering which repairs are worth doing or want to discuss a pre-listing strategy, just give me a call or send me an email. I’d love to hear from you!


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How Do I Prepare My Home for Showings?


Learn how to prepare your home for buyers and the open market.


 

Are you looking to sell your home this summer? While we’re still in a strong seller’s market, there is a widening gap between homes that are ready for the market and those that aren’t. If you want your home to be a winner on the open market, you probably need to make your home as ready and attractive to buyers as possible. It’s proven that the more showings you have, the more likely you are to have a faster sale and net a higher price. That’s why today, I’m sharing three ways you can get your house ready for showings this summer: 1. Take care of minor repairs upfront. Right now, buyers’ number one concern is higher interest rates and affordability. As a result, they want to put as much money down as they can to lower their monthly payments. This means that if you take care of repairs upfront, buyers will be more interested in your house and might even be willing to pay a premium. Taking care of cosmetic repairs upfront is a good idea even in a normal market, but higher interest rates mean this step is more important than ever.


"Buyers will pay a premium for homes in good condition."

 

2. Do some staging. Think about a model home: It’s clean, standardized, and impersonal. Your goal should be to get as close to that image as possible. Your home likely has a lot of personalized touches, like odd furniture, family photos, or maybe even an off-colored wall. I recommend trying to depersonalize your home as much as possible so prospective buyers can picture themselves living in your property. Plus, by packing everything away, you’ll make moving easier once you sell your house. 3. Have a plan for children and pets. Your showings probably won’t go smoothly if your dog or young children are running around. Instead, work with your agent to create a showing schedule with blocks of time when your home is ready for buyers. This way, you and your buyers won’t be disrupted. I recommend putting dogs in kennels just for the short time when you’ll be having showings. While moving your pets around might be a little work, it’s worth it to keep your house in pristine condition when buyers are viewing it. If you want a detailed showing plan or list of repairs to make before you list your home, please call or email me. I’d love to help you navigate this housing market!


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What’s Happening in the Real Estate Market This Summer?

 


There are hidden benefits to the community when you buy or sell your property.


 

As we head further into the summer real estate market, tons of people have been asking me, “What’s going on in the market right now?” I get it; if you’re looking to move in the near future, you want to be informed about what’s happening with real estate. The truth is that home prices are still high in most areas; however, they’re starting to come down in a few places that were most affected by the pandemic boom market. While we don’t know for sure what this means for the country at large, it might be safer to make a move sooner rather than later. With that in mind, I’m sharing three key points about our housing market you need to know if you’re planning on making a move this summer:


1. There is a severe lack of inventory. Right now, a lot of people who would otherwise sell their homes are staying put because they have a low interest rate locked in with their current mortgage. As a result, inventory is incredibly low, and you’ll have way less competition than normal. Because of this, you can still sell quickly and at a good price as long as you work with your agent to build a strong marketing strategy.


"Buyers are motivated, but they won’t put up with homes in poor condition"

 

2. Buyers are very motivated. Right now, buyers across the country are as serious about purchasing your home as any I’ve ever seen. Think about it: Interest rates are still high, and home prices haven’t come down to compensate. If someone is looking at purchasing a home right now, it’s because they really need to move. This means you won’t have to deal with window shoppers, and you won’t have to have as many showings before you find someone willing to offer you a great deal.


3. Pricing and condition are critical. Buyers are motivated right now, but that means they won’t put up with overpriced or poor-quality homes. On the other hand, they will be willing to pay a premium if your home is in good condition. Take the time to work with your agent and fix minor repairs before you put your home on the open market. Also, work together to find a price that fits your local market—one that isn’t too high or too low.


You can still get a good deal this summer, but the future of our market is uncertain. If you have questions about where things might be heading or are interested in selling your home, call or email me. I’d love to hear from you!

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The Ripple Effect of Buying a Home in Your Community

 

There are hidden benefits to the community when you buy or sell your property.


 

There have been countless articles focusing on the benefits of buying and selling homes for home buyers and home sellers. Rarely do you find one talking about how it can benefit your community. I recently spoke with an older gentleman who lived in his house for 30 years. Back then, the price of the house was very low, and now he is considering selling or renting it out. Either way, his decision will impact the community in different ways.


According to a yearly survey by the National Association of Realtors, a new construction home can contribute around $124,000 to the community, while a resale generates roughly $54,000. Buying or selling a property involves a lot of people, not just Realtors, escrow companies, and title reps. When you need to fix up your home, you need to hire termite companies, moving companies, and plumbing companies. Moreover, for inspections and showings, you need to consult with electricians, pool cleaners, stagers, and photographers.


"Real estate activity impacts different industries, boosting the economy in different ways. "

 

Real estate activity impacts different industries, boosting the economy in different ways. The survey also found that a home sale creates about three jobs. This is also good for the local economy, as it brings in more money and tax revenue. In California, for example, selling a $1.1 million property generates roughly $12,000 in property taxes alone. This is compared to a house that sold 30 years ago for $50,000, which would only bring in about $5,000 in taxes.


There’s also the income tax benefit. All of the jobs created by the purchase of a home mean more people paying income taxes. On top of that, there are gas taxes paid by the service providers working on your property, corporate taxes from the companies involved, and employee taxes. There’s a ripple effect happening that affects the local economy in many ways. 


So, if you are considering buying or selling a home, know that it’s not just a personal endeavor; you are also contributing to the community. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or are thinking about making a move. I’ll help you achieve your goals while helping the community.

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Do Sellers Need to Offer Buyer's Commission?

 

Discussing the key benefits of offering competitive buyer agent rates.


 

In case you don’t know, the real estate world was flipped on its head recently. A lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors is challenging how buyer agents get paid, and it’s left a lot of people confused. Here’s the short version: A court recently ruled that the current structure of buyer’s agents’ commissions was illegal and needed to change. In the past, the seller would pay full commission to their agent, and the seller’s agent would then split that commission with the buyer’s agent. In this way, the buyer wouldn’t actually need to put any money down for their representation. Now, the buyer commissions are negotiated separately from the seller side. So, do you still need to pay the buyer’s agent’s commissions when selling your home? If you want the best representation possible, yes, and there are a few key reasons why:


1. Offering a competitive rate will help your home sell. Just like you look at similar homes in your area to determine your listing price, you should also look at similar buyer’s agent rates in your area to determine how much commission you offer. A higher rate is a sign to buyers that you’re serious about getting your home sold and will probably reduce your time on the market. However, you don’t want to make your rate too high and end up paying unnecessary fees. Work with your agent and look at similar homes in your market to find a Goldilocks rate that isn’t too high or too low. 2. Setting a rate upfront avoids negotiations. Since buyer commissions are now negotiable, it’s better to get ahead of things and agree to a rate before negotiating. If you wait until closing to negotiate your buyer commission rate, it could become a sticking point that slows down your sale or jeopardizes the translation altogether. You may even have to end up paying extra just to make your buyer happy. Instead, I recommend communicating upfront about what you’re willing to pay to avoid confusion and unnecessary negotiations.


"Set your rate based on comparative home sales in your area."

 

3. Offering no commission to buyers comes with risks. You may think it makes the most sense to offer zero commission upfront and simply negotiate a low rate at closing; however, this isn’t how things will work in practice. Just because you list your home and offer a 0% rate upfront does not mean you won’t pay any buyer commissions—most buyers will simply ignore your home if they think their representation won’t be compensated. Instead, it means you’ll have to negotiate the rate at closing, which can lead to a drawn-out sale and potentially paying more than you would have otherwise.

I know this topic can be a little confusing, so don’t hesitate to call or email me if you have any questions. Plus, I offer a flexible commission menu so that you can pay for representation no matter what your budget is. I look forward to hearing from you!

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What’s The Best Way To Buy a Home Before Selling?

 

What homeowners need to know about buying a home before selling.


 

Selling your current home before buying a new one is the conventional way to move. However, depending on your situation, there will be times when buying before you sell is the better option. Whatever your reason, you should know that buying first comes with additional risks, such as paying two mortgages, if your current home takes a long time to sell. If you’re in a situation where you must buy first before selling, don’t worry. It’s not impossible, but it takes some strategic planning to make it happen. Here are three things that will help you buy before you sell: 1. Use a home equity line of credit. A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is a second mortgage that allows you to borrow cash based on the value of your home. In other words, it allows you to use your equity without selling your home. While lenders vary on how much they’ll let you borrow, 85% of your equity is industry standard. If you choose this option, you’ll need to act fast. Getting approved for a HELOC often takes longer than a traditional mortgage approval, so you should have it in place before applying for the mortgage on your new home. Once you have moved into your new property, you can put your old one up for sale at your leisure and pay back your HELOC using the profits. 2. Finance with a bridge loan. A bridge loan is a short-term, high-interest loan. When you buy with a bridge loan, you can use your existing home as collateral to get a loan for your new house. To close your bridge loan faster, try to align the closing dates of your buying and selling transactions.


"You need to move fast in our competitive spring housing market."

 

3. Use a service that will help you make a cash offer. Companies like Knock and Homeward are revolutionizing the way people buy and sell homes. These types of companies offer game-changing home loan products that let you make competitive cash offers on your dream home before the sale of your current one and help you avoid paying two mortgages simultaneously.

Buying a new home before selling your existing one has its unique challenges, but if you can leverage the three options above and utilize the guidance of an experienced agent, you can come up with the best solutions for your situation. If you want more details about this topic or have any real estate concerns, don’t hesitate to call or email me. I’ll be happy to help.

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Make Your Home Stand Out: Essential Accessibility Tips

 


How enhancing accessibility can boost your home's marketability.


 

Selling a home can be a daunting task, especially when the property requires some work. As we approach the busier spring market, ensuring your home stands out to potential buyers is crucial. One often overlooked factor that can significantly influence the sale process is the accessibility of your home. Here are some essential tips to ensure your property is readily accessible and appealing to potential buyers. 1. Open houses and MLS listings. Creating as much access to your home as possible is vital. Utilizing the MLS to announce upcoming open houses allows licensed agents and potential buyers to know when your home will be available for viewing. This strategy is particularly effective for those without agents, as syndicated websites will broadcast your open house times, broadening your home's exposure. 2. Secure your home with a lockbox. Ensuring your home is accessible while still secure is a delicate balance. A lockbox, typically provided by the MLS, allows licensed agents to access your home within set hours, ensuring that your property can be shown even in your absence. For added security and convenience, consider a backup combo code or a smart lock box that can be operated via smartphone. 3. Prepare your home for showings. Whether you're living in your home while it's on the market or it's vacant, maintaining a clean and inviting atmosphere is essential. For occupied homes, this means keeping the house tidy, making beds, and ensuring it smells fresh. For vacant homes, accessibility is easier to manage, but it's still important to keep utilities on and ensure the property is well-lit and welcoming.


"Ensuring your home is accessible to potential buyers is a critical aspect of the selling process."

4. Streamline the appointment process. In today's fast-paced market, buyers and their agents can't afford to wait 24 hours for a showing appointment. Utilizing tools like ShowingTime, which offers an automated scheduling system, can make your home more accessible. This system allows for immediate confirmations for vacant properties and efficient communication for occupied homes, ensuring that potential buyers can view your home with minimal delay. 5. Leverage technology for efficient showings. For agents, ShowingTime also offers a feature that maps out the most efficient route for viewing multiple properties. This convenience can significantly enhance the viewing experience, making it easier for potential buyers to visit your home alongside others on their list. Ensuring your home is accessible to potential buyers is a critical aspect of the selling process. By implementing these strategies, you can increase the chances of a successful sale. If you're considering selling your home and want more tips or assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make your home sale a seamless and profitable experience. For any inquiries or further assistance, please feel free to contact me by phone or email. I'm here to help make your home-selling journey as smooth and successful as possible.


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Maximizing Home Equity: Your Roadmap to Financial Freedom in 2024

 


Understanding how your home equity can be a real game changer.


 

Today, I’ll delve into a topic that's making waves across the nation: the transformative impact of home equity when selling your house. Home equity is taking center stage in Southern California, where property values are soaring. In Southern California, property values have surged by 10% to 20%, with some homeowners experiencing staggering increases. Take, for instance, a client who purchased a property 18 months ago for $1.2 million, and it's now valued at a whopping $2.1 million; that’s a game-changing $1 million increase. Such scenarios raise the question: How can home equity be a game changer when selling? Nationwide, the average equity stands at an impressive $300,000, a figure that has financial implications that rival traditional investments. Approximately 30% of homeowners across the country own their properties outright, while another 30% have more than 60% equity. This trend signifies a unique opportunity for those looking to leverage their equity when making real estate moves.

"In Southern California, property values have surged by 10% to 20%."

Having substantial home equity opens up a myriad of possibilities for homeowners. Consider the benefits of purchasing a new home with an all-cash payment, downsizing without the burden of a mortgage, or making a larger down payment to secure a more favorable interest rate. The versatility of equity also extends to boosting retirement accounts or venturing into real estate investment. Imagine redirecting funds from a 529 education investment into acquiring an investment property. By making a modest down payment, homeowners can benefit from property appreciation, potentially generating cash flow or creating a financial cushion for future endeavors, such as funding their children's education. If you find yourself contemplating the potential of your home equity or are unsure how to navigate these opportunities, feel free to reach out. Whether through a call, text, or email, we can discuss your specific situation and explore how to harness the power of your equity for your benefit.

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Overcoming Real Estate Challenges in Fire-Prone Areas



Expert tips you need to know for selling your home in high-fire-risk areas.


 

In the realm of real estate, we occasionally encounter unique challenges that test our resolve and adaptability. Recently, a situation unfolded that underscored the complexities of selling properties in areas prone to natural hazards such as wildfires, landslides, and earthquakes. As a Realtor, and alongside my sellers who've owned their property for an extensive period, we've faced the intricate issue of natural hazard disclosures head-on. Our latest hurdle involved a property that, despite being situated away from any immediate brush or traditional fire zones, was designated as being within a high fire zone. This revelation necessitates a thorough understanding and action from all parties involved—sellers, buyers, and agents alike. To address the situation, an essential step involves liaising with the California Association for Fire Authority to initiate an evaluation, ensuring the property's safety and compliance. This predicament underscores the critical importance of ordering natural hazard disclosures promptly. It's a precautionary measure that safeguards both the buyer's and seller's interests, providing peace of mind and transparency throughout the transaction process. For sellers, especially those who have cherished their homes for years, staying informed about insurance policy changes becomes paramount.

"If you're navigating the complexities of selling or buying a property in areas susceptible to natural hazards, remember, you're not alone."

In California, the aftermath of recent fires has led some insurers, including Allstate and State Farm, to halt the acceptance of new policies, a decision influenced by significant financial losses. This has a pronounced impact on homeowners, with some experiencing a stark increase in premiums—a challenging scenario for individuals on fixed incomes or those retired, compelling them to seek additional income sources to maintain their insurance coverage. Beyond individual efforts, it's crucial for Homeowners Associations (HOAs) to ensure they are adequately prepared for potential catastrophes. This includes maintaining a robust reserve fund for rebuilding in the aftermath of a disaster. As homeowners, taking proactive measures such as brush clearance and staying informed about insurance policies is vital for safeguarding our properties and communities. If you're navigating the complexities of selling or buying a property in areas susceptible to natural hazards, remember, you're not alone. Whether you have questions or need guidance, I'm here to assist. Ensuring our homes are secure, our communities are prepared, and our insurance policies are up to date is paramount. Feel free to reach out to me via phone, text, or email for advice or assistance in keeping your property safe and sound.

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Unlocking Wealth: How 1031 Exchanges Supercharge Investments



This is how a 1031 exchange can transform your real estate portfolio.


 

Today, I’ll talk about a powerful financial tool—the 1031 exchange. Whether you're a seasoned property investor or considering stepping into the realm of real estate, understanding the perks and mechanics of a 1031 exchange can significantly impact your investment strategy. For instance, I've owned several investment properties for nearly two decades and I'm considering diversifying or exchanging them as part of my investment strategy. With a 1031 exchange, I can swap one real estate property for another without incurring capital gains taxes. This exchange must involve 'like-kind' properties, which can include transitioning from residential to commercial or vice versa. The key advantage is deferring capital gains taxes that would have been accrued due to appreciation. This strategy enables property owners to improve cash flow by transitioning to more lucrative properties. For instance, if you've had a property with diminishing cash flow, a 1031 exchange allows you to switch to a property that generates better returns.

"When doing a 1031 exchange, work with a company specialized in managing the necessary paperwork."

Additionally, by selling a property and reinvesting through a 1031 exchange, you can potentially enhance your cash flow by moving from a duplex to a triplex or a larger property. Another substantial benefit of a 1031 exchange is the preservation of the tax basis. Let's say you initially bought a property for $300,000, and over time, it appreciated to $1,000,000. Without a 1031 exchange, selling this property would trigger a capital gains tax of around 15% on the $700,000 gain. However, with a 1031 exchange, you can defer these taxes, allowing you to reinvest the entire amount into a new property. This deferral provides more flexibility to upgrade to larger and potentially more profitable properties.

When engaging in a 1031 exchange, it's crucial to work with a company specialized in managing the paperwork involved. I have a reputable company that I often collaborate with, and I can provide referrals upon request. Keep in mind that state-specific regulations regarding the exchange may vary, potentially affecting the tax implications. I can assist in offering guidance on this matter and provide further referrals, ensuring a well-informed decision. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to me via phone, text, or email. I'm here to help.

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