Interest Rate – Page 6 – Find a Broker™

What Stays and What Goes? Be Clear on Personal Property in a Home Sale

One of the most overlooked (and often confusing) parts of buying or selling a home is understanding what stays with the house—and what goes.

As a buyer, you might assume that beautiful chandelier or wall-mounted TV is included. As a seller, you might plan to take it with you. Without clear communication, this misunderstanding can lead to disappointment—or even legal issues.

Let’s clear things up.

What Is Considered Personal Property?

Personal property refers to anything that is not permanently attached to the home. These are items that can be removed without damaging the property. Examples include:

Furniture
Area rugs
Lamps
Artwork
Potted plants

These are typically not included in the sale unless agreed upon in writing.

What Is Considered a Fixture?

Fixtures are items that are physically attached to the property and are usually expected to stay. This includes:

Light fixtures
Built-in appliances
Curtain rods (but not curtains themselves)
Mounted shelves
Bathroom mirrors (if secured to the wall)

Fixtures are generally included in the sale unless specifically excluded in the contract.

The Gray Areas

Some items fall into a gray area—like wall-mounted TVs (the mount may stay, the TV may not), garage storage systems, or outdoor playsets. This is where clear communication and good contracts come in.

Realtor Tip: Put It in Writing

To avoid misunderstandings:

Buyers: Be specific about what you want included in your offer.
Sellers: Clearly list what you plan to take with you—even if it seems obvious.

Use the purchase agreement’s personal property section to spell out all inclusions and exclusions. Never assume.

Why It Matters

Disputes over what stays or goes can delay closings, lead to post-sale tension, or worse—legal action. Being clear, upfront, and thorough protects everyone involved.

Whether you’re buying or selling, one of the best things you can do is make sure expectations are aligned from the start. When in doubt, talk it out—and get it in writing.

A smooth sale starts with clarity.

If you’re considering a move or investment and require a trusted Real Estate Broker, we’re here to assist you. Contact us via email at TEAM@McDanielCallahan.com, complete the form below, or give us a call at 925-838-4300. We are ready to provide expert guidance and support for all your real estate needs. Terry McDaniel DRE License #00941526

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Why You Want to Make a Move: It’s About More Than Just a House

Sometimes, deciding to move isn’t about needing a bigger kitchen or upgrading your square footage. Sometimes, it’s about something much deeper.

For recent clients, it meant leaving behind lifelong roots in the place we grew up, the family we love, the familiarity of home—for one simple but powerful reason: community.

The Deeper Why

We didn’t just want a new house.
We wanted a neighborhood where:

Kids ride their bikes until the sun sets
Parents linger in driveways chatting after work
People wave, say hello, and actually know each other’s names

We were looking for something more than convenience—we were searching for connection.

What Moving Really Means

Moving is a big decision, and yes, it can be emotional. But for many people, it’s not just about features or finishes. It’s about finding a place that supports the life you want to live.

It’s about saying:

I want my kids to grow up in a community that feels like home.
I want to put down roots in a neighborhood that reflects our values.
I want to walk into a church and feel like I belong.

That’s not just a move—that’s a life shift.

Is It Time for Your Shift?

If you’ve been feeling a pull to make a move, pause and ask yourself:

What am I really looking for in a home?
What kind of environment do I want for myself or my family?
Am I craving more connection, more simplicity, or a fresh start?

As a realtor, I’ve learned that the most meaningful moves are rarely about granite countertops or open floor plans. They’re about dreams, relationships, and building a life that feels right.

If you’re thinking about making a change—not just in address, but in lifestyle—I’d love to help you explore what’s possible.

Because where you live should support how you want to live.

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Buying New Construction? Here’s What to Know About Builder Incentives

New construction homes are attractive: brand-new appliances, modern finishes, and the joy of being the very first owner. But as you tour model homes, you might hear builders offer “incentives” to sweeten the deal. These can be tempting—but they also deserve a closer look.

So, what are builder incentives, and what should you watch out for?

What Are Builder Incentives?

Builder incentives are perks or discounts offered by home builders to encourage buyers to purchase one of their properties. These can include:

Closing cost assistance
Free or discounted upgrades (think granite countertops or premium flooring)
Interest rate buydowns through preferred lenders
Price reductions or bonus cash
Free appliances or landscaping packages

Builders often use these incentives to move inventory faster—especially at the end of a quarter or when they’re close to finishing a community.

The Upside: Why Incentives Can Be Great

If used wisely, incentives can save you money or allow you to add features that would otherwise stretch your budget. For example:

You might receive $10,000 in design center credits for choosing flooring, cabinets, or fixtures.
The builder might cover thousands in closing costs—reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
You could lock in a lower interest rate if you go with the builder’s preferred lender.

What to Watch Out For

Not all incentives are created equal. Before you sign a contract, keep these points in mind:

1. Incentives May Be Tied to Specific Lenders

Many builders require you to use their preferred lender to get the full incentive. While this can be convenient, it’s smart to compare rates and terms with an outside lender—you may still get a better overall deal elsewhere.

2. The “Discount” May Already Be Priced In

That $20,000 price reduction? It could be a marketing tactic. Builders sometimes inflate prices to make incentives appear more generous. Your real estate agent can run a market comparison to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

3. Upgrades Add Up Quickly

Design centers are full of beautiful options—and upcharges. Know what’s included in the base price vs. what’s considered an “upgrade,” and stick to your budget. Ask for a list of standard features.

4. Builder Contracts Favor the Builder

New construction contracts are different from resale transactions—and often heavily favor the builder. Have your agent review the terms with you, and don’t skip the fine print.

Builder incentives can be a great opportunity—if you know what you’re getting into. Always have a trusted real estate agent by your side during new construction purchases. They can help you negotiate, read between the lines, and make sure the “deal” is truly a deal.

Thinking about buying new construction? Let’s chat before you visit the model homes—I’ll help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

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

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home or considering putting your house on the market, you’ve likely heard the terms buyer’s market and seller’s market. But what do these phrases actually mean—and how do they impact your real estate decisions?

Let’s break it down.

What is a Buyer’s Market?

A buyer’s market happens when there are more homes for sale than there are buyers actively looking. With higher inventory and lower demand, buyers have the upper hand.

What it means for buyers:

More choices
Less competition
Better negotiating power on price and repairs

What it means for sellers:

Homes may take longer to sell
Prices may need to be more competitive
Sellers may need to offer incentives (like paying closing costs)

What is a Seller’s Market?

A seller’s market occurs when there are more buyers than homes available. Inventory is low, demand is high—and that puts sellers in the driver’s seat.

What it means for sellers:

Homes can sell quickly
Offers may come in above asking price
Bidding wars are more common

What it means for buyers:

Fewer homes to choose from
You may need to act fast and make strong offers
Waiving contingencies or offering above asking may be necessary

Why This Matters

Knowing whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market helps you form a smarter strategy.

Buyers: In a seller’s market, get pre-approved and be ready to move quickly.
Sellers: In a buyer’s market, make sure your home is priced well and shows beautifully.

Markets shift. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding current conditions can help you make more confident decisions. If you’re unsure where your local market stands, reach out—

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What Selling “As-Is” Really Means (and What It Doesn’t)

If you’re preparing to sell your home, you may have heard the term “as-is” and thought: “Great! That means I won’t have to fix anything or tell the buyer about problems.”

Not so fast. Let’s break down what as-is actually means—so you can sell with confidence, and no surprises.

What As-Is Means

Selling a home as-is means you are telling the buyer up front:
I am not agreeing to make repairs or improvements before the sale.
The buyer accepts the property in its current condition.

Often, as-is homes appeal to investors, flippers, or buyers looking for a deal.

What As-Is Does Not Mean

Many sellers think as-is frees them from other responsibilities—but that’s not true.
You still must disclose known material defects. California law requires that you share anything that could affect a buyer’s decision—such as roof leaks, foundation issues, or mold.

The buyer can still inspect. Listing as-is doesn’t stop a buyer from ordering inspections or negotiating repairs after discovering something serious.

It doesn’t shield you from liability. Hiding a known issue could lead to legal trouble later, even in an as-is sale.

Why Clarity Matters

Marketing a home as-is can be a useful strategy—but it’s important to understand what it does and doesn’t cover. A knowledgeable agent will help you set expectations, price correctly, and protect your interests.

Thinking About Selling As-Is?

If you’re considering selling your home as-is, let’s talk about whether it’s the right approach—and how to make sure you’re covered every step of the way.

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What Happens If You Remove Contingencies and Then Want to Back Out? Real Estate Advice for Buyers

Buying a home in California is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. One part of the process that often confuses buyers is contingency removal. Specifically, what happens if you remove your contingencies…and later want (or need) to cancel the contract?

Let’s break it down so you can feel confident and informed.

What Are Contingencies, Anyway?

Contingencies are protections built into your purchase contract. Common ones include:

Inspection contingency (gives you time to check out the property’s condition)
Appraisal contingency (protects you if the home doesn’t appraise at the purchase price)
Loan contingency (gives you time to secure financing)

These give you an “out” if something significant comes up during escrow.

What Happens When You Remove Contingencies?

When you remove contingencies, you’re telling the seller:
👉 “I’m satisfied. I’m moving forward with the deal.”

At this point, your earnest money deposit (usually 1-3% of the purchase price) is at risk if you later change your mind.

If you try to cancel after contingencies are removed:
🚩 The seller may be entitled to keep your deposit under the liquidated damages clause (if agreed upon).
🚩 You could face legal disputes if the seller claims financial harm from your cancellation.

Why This Matters

It’s tempting to rush into removing contingencies to make your offer stronger or speed things up—but it’s a big decision. Once you remove those protections, backing out isn’t as simple as walking away.

Smart Tips Before Removing Contingencies

✅ Ask questions. Make sure you understand inspection reports, the appraisal, and your loan status.

✅ Don’t feel pressured. You have the right to take the time you need (within your agreed-upon timeline).

✅ Work with your agent. A good real estate professional will help you navigate this decision wisely.

Removing contingencies means you’re committing. Before you do, be certain you’re ready. Protect yourself by understanding what’s at stake—because your deposit, and more, could be on the line.

If you have questions about contingencies or the California purchase contract, talk to your real estate agent.

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Waived the Home Warranty to Win the Offer? You Can Still Add One After Closing

In a competitive real estate market, buyers often make sacrifices to stand out. One common strategy? Waiving the home warranty in the initial offer to appear stronger to sellers. But here’s something many buyers don’t realize:

You can still add a home warranty after you close escrow.

What’s a Home Warranty, Again?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances—think HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heaters, kitchen appliances, and more. It can be a lifesaver, especially in the first year of homeownership when surprises are most unwelcome.

Why You Might Have Waived It

In a bidding war, every term counts. Waiving the home warranty can be a tempting way to simplify the offer and make it more attractive to the seller. It’s not uncommon—but it does carry risk. If something goes wrong after closing, you could be on the hook for repairs that a warranty might have covered.

The Good News: It’s Not Too Late

If you waived the warranty to win the deal, you can still purchase one yourself after closing. Many home warranty providers allow new homeowners to enroll within 30–60 days after closing—even if a warranty wasn’t included in the sale.

What It Might Cost

A standard home warranty plan usually costs between $300 and $600 per year, depending on coverage. It’s a small investment for peace of mind, especially if your new home has aging systems or older appliances.

When to Consider Adding One

You waived it to make your offer more competitive
The home inspection revealed older systems
You’re a first-time buyer and want extra protection
You don’t have a large emergency repair fund

Winning the home was the goal—and you did it. But protecting your investment is just as important. A home warranty is one way to do that, even after the ink has dried. If you waived the warranty during negotiations, don’t worry—you’ve still got time to add one and enjoy a little more peace of mind.

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Can’t Find a Home in the Area You Want? Try This Instead

You’ve narrowed down your dream neighborhood. You know the streets, the schools, and where the best coffee shop is. But… there’s just one problem: there’s nothing available—or what is available is way over budget.

You’re not alone. In competitive markets, inventory can be low, and prices can soar in the most popular areas. But that doesn’t mean your dream home is out of reach.

Here’s one simple tip that might open the door to more options:
Look a few blocks over.

Don’t Get Stuck on Boundaries

Sometimes we get attached to imaginary lines—neighborhood borders, zip codes, even certain school zones. But what’s a five-minute walk away might offer similar charm, a lower price tag, and less competition. You might be surprised how much changes in just a few blocks.

Look for Signs of Transition

When you can’t find the perfect home, look for the perfect opportunity—and that might mean targeting streets where:

Homes are being remodeled or flipped
New landscaping and fences are going in
Construction dumpsters are in driveways

These are signs the neighborhood is on the rise. Buying in an “up-and-coming” pocket often means more room to grow your equity and the chance to shape your home to fit your vision.

Keep an Open Mind (and Eyes)

Take a walking or driving tour just outside your target area. Pay attention to streets that feel similar to what you’re looking for. Ask your agent if there are homes that may not be listed publicly yet. A little flexibility can go a long way in finding a hidden gem.

Stay Focused, But Stay Open

It’s great to have a dream neighborhood—but don’t let that stop you from seeing potential nearby. The perfect home might not be exactly where you imagined it, but it might still offer everything you need to live your ideal lifestyle.

Remember: You can change the house, but you can’t change the location—so if you find a street that feels right, don’t be afraid to go for it.

Let’s find the right fit—together.

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What to Offer on a Home That’s Been on the Market for Over a Month

If you’re house hunting and find a property that’s been sitting on the market for over a month, it’s natural to wonder: Is something wrong with it? Can I make a lower offer?

The answer? Maybe. But not always.

A home sitting unsold doesn’t necessarily mean it’s flawed—it might just be overpriced, poorly marketed, or caught in a slow season. Here’s how to approach your offer with confidence and strategy:

1. Do Your Homework

Before making an offer, have your agent run a comparative market analysis (CMA). Look at:

Recent sales of similar homes in the neighborhood
Current competition on the market
Any price reductions already made

This gives you a data-driven foundation for your offer—especially if you’re thinking of coming in below asking price.

2. Understand Why It’s Still Available

Ask your agent to find out:

Has it had any offers already?
Was there an inspection or financing issue?
What’s the seller’s timeline or motivation?

If the home is overpriced or has minor cosmetic issues, you may be in a position to negotiate. If the seller’s just not flexible, that’s important to know upfront.

3. Consider Offering Less—But Be Respectful

It’s okay to offer less than asking, especially if the market supports it or the home has been sitting for a while. But make a thoughtful offer—not an insult. A well-reasoned offer backed by comps is more likely to be taken seriously than a lowball offer with no explanation.

4. Look for Other Leverage

If the price isn’t negotiable, you might still gain value by asking for:

Closing cost assistance
Flexible closing date
Credits for repairs
Inclusion of appliances or furniture

These extras can save you money and sweeten the deal without changing the price.

5. Don’t Wait Too Long

A home sitting for a month might suddenly get new interest—especially if there’s a price drop or renewed marketing. If you love the home, don’t assume no one else will make a move. Time your offer wisely.

When a home’s been on the market for over a month, it’s an opportunity—but one that needs strategy. Work with your agent, do your research, and make an offer that’s fair, informed, and aligned with your goals.

You might just land a great home at the right price.

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Who Should Pay for Repairs? Navigating Inspection Issues as a Home Seller

You’re selling your home, and the buyer’s inspection report flags one major issue: the oil tank needs to be replaced. You agree with the finding and have already gathered an estimate—around $8,000. Now comes the big question: Who should pay for it?

While your real estate agent can offer advice, it’s smart to think through your options and consider how other sellers might handle this situation. Especially if your home is priced competitively in a cooling market and the buyer made a full-price offer, you want to weigh your choices carefully.

Here are three possible responses you could consider:

1. Cover the Full Cost Yourself

If you’re eager to keep the deal on track and avoid delays, covering the full cost might be the cleanest route. This shows good faith to the buyer and reduces any negotiation back-and-forth.

Pros:

Keeps the sale moving smoothly
Avoids renegotiation or potential fallout
Builds goodwill with the buyer

Cons:

You take on the full financial burden
No guarantee of a higher selling price as a result

2. Negotiate a Shared Cost with the Buyer

If the buyer is motivated and the issue wasn’t factored into their original offer, it’s reasonable to ask them to share in the cost. You could propose splitting the cost 50/50 or offering a seller credit at closing.

Pros:

Reduces your financial hit
Shows you’re being fair and collaborative
Keeps the buyer invested in the deal

Cons:

Requires negotiation, which can delay progress
Buyer might push back or ask for additional concessions

3. Offer a Credit Instead of Doing the Work

If you prefer not to handle the replacement yourself, offering a credit at closing gives the buyer flexibility to manage the repair post-sale.

Pros:

Avoids project delays or logistical headaches
Buyer can choose their own contractor or timeline
Keeps the sale moving forward

Cons:

Buyer may want a larger credit than the repair estimate
Some lenders may require repairs before closing

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—each real estate transaction has its own rhythm and dynamics. Think about your timeline, your bottom line, and how motivated your buyer is. Open communication and fairness can go a long way toward keeping your deal intact while protecting your interests.

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