Palos Verdes Real Estate

Myths and Misconceptions Category

July 2014 Newsletter

July, 2014 Dear Neighbor: After about 8 months of frenetic activity, the real estate market has slowed somewhat, which you may remember I predicted a few months ago.  Prices have risen significantly in the last year or so but, at some point, affordability plus some sellers over-shooting the mark on price causes the sort of slowdown we’re now seeing.   This will be picked up by the media in about 60 days, so you can expect to still hear breathless reports of huge...Continue Reading!

May 2014 Newsletter

May, 2014 Dear Neighbor: Despite what you may have heard on the news, the local real estate market is still very active.  I have a very nice 4 bedroom 3 bath one level home coming up in Rolling Hills Estates in the $1,250,000 range, so call me if you know anyone who would like to see it before the rush. Some of the myths in real estate make “Elvis is in the building” look credible.  One holds that you should price your house...Continue Reading!

How Realtors Get Paid

I guess since I'm in the business, I just think everyone understands how Realtors get paid.  Every so often something happens to make me realize that's not true.  So if you don't spend your free time worrying about this, here's how it works: When you list your house for sale with a Realtor, he becomes the "Listing Agent".  You will notice on your Listing Agreement that there is a spot for the commission you agree to pay him.  This normally represents...Continue Reading!

Show Me Your List(ings)

When you're interviewing agents to sell your house, one the best things you can do is to ask them for a list of homes they've actually sold in your area.  If you're in Palos Verdes, a list of sales in the 90274 and 90275 zip codes would be appropriate.  Any others would be nearly irrelevant.  As explained below, the agent you're interviewing may not really be active in your area and/or may be starting with you.  If the agent isn't active...Continue Reading!