The Broker Blog

Expert insights on real estate, mortgages, investments, and finding the right broker for your needs.

home buyingpre-approval

Starting Smart: How to Set Your Home Search Price Range After Getting Pre-approved

Your preapproval is a ceiling, not a target. Learn how to set a strategic price range that supports your financial health and homeownership goals.

Feb 16, 20263 min read
home buyingproperty inspection

Property Evaluation: Looking Beyond the Staging

Don't let beautiful staging distract you from what really matters. Learn how to evaluate a home's structure, systems, and surroundings before making an offer.

Jan 20, 20263 min read
taxeshomeownership

Unlocking the Benefits: Tax Savings for Homeowners

Owning a home comes with significant tax benefits. Learn which expenses are deductible and how to maximize your savings as a homeowner.

Jan 19, 20263 min read
closinghome buying

How to Avoid Closing Delays During the Holidays: A Smart Homebuyer & Seller Guide

The holiday season can be tricky for real estate closings. Here are 9 strategies to keep your transaction on track during the busiest time of year.

Dec 11, 20253 min read
closing costsCalifornia

Who Pays for Title and Escrow Fees in California?

Title and escrow fees in California vary by county and are often negotiable. Here's what buyers and sellers need to know about who typically pays.

Dec 10, 20253 min read
home sellingFSBO

Is Selling Your Home Yourself Really Saving You Money?

FSBO might seem like a cost-saving move, but the numbers tell a different story. Here's what you need to know before going it alone.

Nov 13, 20252 min read
title insurancehome buying

What Is a Preliminary Title Report—and Why It Matters When Buying a Home

The preliminary title report is one of the most important documents in a real estate transaction. Learn what it contains and how to review it.

Nov 11, 20253 min read
home sellingmultiple offers

What Happens If I Get Multiple Offers on My Home?

Multiple offers can be exciting, but price isn't everything. Learn how to evaluate contingencies, financing strength, and timing to choose the best offer.

Sep 15, 20252 min read
home sellingdisclosures

Home Seller Disclosures: What You Need to Know

Disclosure protects both buyers and sellers. Learn what adverse material facts you must disclose and how to stay compliant.

Sep 3, 20253 min read
estate planningtrusts

Should Your House Be Owned in a Trust? What Happens If You Die

Owning your home in a trust can help your heirs avoid probate, save money, and maintain privacy. Here's what you need to know.

Sep 2, 20252 min read
home buyingpre-approval

Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval: What Buyers Need to Know

Pre-qualification is a starting point, but pre-approval is what makes your offer stand out. Learn the difference and why it matters.

Sep 1, 20253 min read
homeownershipbudgeting

Budgeting for Ongoing Costs: The Hidden Side of Homeownership

Your mortgage isn't your only expense. Learn about property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other costs every homeowner should budget for.

Aug 13, 20253 min read
home buyingearnest money

Buying a Home? Don't Skip This Detail: Understanding Earnest Money

Earnest money shows sellers you're serious. Learn what it is, how much to offer, and how to protect your deposit.

Jul 31, 20253 min read
home sellingsmart home

Smart Home Upgrades Worth the Investment: A Realtor's Guide for Sellers

Today's buyers want smart home features. Here are 5 upgrades that can help your home stand out and sell faster.

Jul 28, 20252 min read
market conditionshome buying

Buyer's Market vs. Seller's Market: What's the Difference?

Understanding market conditions helps you form a smarter strategy. Learn what defines each market type and how to adjust your approach.

Jul 13, 20252 min read
home sellingas-is sales

What Selling 'As-Is' Really Means (and What It Doesn't)

Selling as-is doesn't mean you can hide problems or skip disclosures. Here's what sellers need to know about as-is sales.

Jun 30, 20252 min read
contingencieshome buying

What Happens If You Remove Contingencies and Then Want to Back Out?

Removing contingencies is a big commitment. Here's what's at stake if you change your mind after waiving your protections.

Jun 26, 20252 min read
home sellingMLS

Selling Off the MLS: What You Need to Know Before Going Off-Market

Off-market sales offer privacy but may cost you money. Here's how to decide if selling outside the MLS is right for you.

May 7, 20253 min read
home buyingoffers

Making Your Offer Stand Out with an Escalation Clause

In a competitive market, an escalation clause can help you win the home without overpaying from the start. Here's how it works.

Apr 16, 20252 min read
insurancehomeownership

10 Ways to Lower Your Home Insurance Premium Without Sacrificing Coverage

Home insurance doesn't have to break the bank. Here are 10 proven strategies to reduce your premium while maintaining solid coverage.

Feb 17, 20254 min read
refinancingmortgage

Refinancing 101: When and How to Refinance Your Home Loan

Refinancing can save you thousands—or cost you if done wrong. Learn when it makes sense and how to do it right.

Jan 22, 20253 min read
relocationclimate risk

The 10 U.S. Cities with the Lowest Risk of Climate Disasters

Climate risk is becoming a major factor in home buying decisions. Here are the safest cities for homebuyers concerned about natural disasters.

Oct 8, 20244 min read
commissionsreal estate agents

How Do Realtors Get Paid? Understanding Real Estate Commissions

Real estate commissions can be confusing. Here's a clear breakdown of how agents get paid and who foots the bill.

Sep 5, 20233 min read