Q: Is it better to sell my existing home before buying a new one?

A: This is one of the most common questions we get as real estate agents. In almost all cases, it's better to sell your home before buying. Reason being is that you will be seen as a more desirable buyer than one that still needs to close on their existing home. In a hot market this is especially true.

Q: What if I can't find a home after we sell the existing one?

A: There are simple ways ensure that you aren't living in a hotel while you hunt for real estate. You may have to pay the new buyer rent for a few months while you hunt for real estate.

Q: Why should I choose Rosetree Real Estate?

A: This gets to the heart of the matter, now doesn't it? At Rosetree Real Estate we provide a comfortable approach that's familiar and stress free. We pride ourselves on our price estimates and negotiation skills when it matters most.

Q: What's the first thing I need to do if I want to buy a home?

A: Well, if you have an existing home, you should start thinking about putting it on the market. Time to start tidying up. You will also want to speak with a mortgage broker to be pre-approved for a loan. The broker can analyze any existing mortgages and see how it all will shape up in the end. 

Q: Can you suggest a mortgage broker?

A: We can. But as licensed real estate agents we cannot suggest just one broker. We can provide you with two to three excellent mortgage brokers for you to choose from, each with access to a wide range of loan options and federal programs. 

Q: Is this a good time to buy real estate?

A: It's always a good time to real estate. The market is currently coming toward the end of what has been an extremely hot period, which means that prices may start to level off with less buyers in the market. When it comes to values, though fluxuations do occur, over the course of 10 to 20 years, real estate will undoubtedly appreciate in value. 

Q: Should I be concerned about interest rates?

A: Interest rates are a key way the Federal Reserve controls the pace of the market. Coming off historic lows, federal interest rates are now starting to rise so borrowers will want to take advantage as soon as possible if they are still on the fence.

Q: How long does it typically take to sell a house?

A: Our goal is to always sell a home within 45 days though oftentimes in today's market homes are selling within 10 days. The key to selling a home is pricing it correctly. Priced too high and buyers will not make offers. Priced too low and you could quickly find yourself stuck with accepting an amount less than the full potential.

Q: What areas do you typically work in?

A: Our brokerage focuses on the South Bay beach cities including surrounding cities of Lomita, Carson, Hawthorne and San Pedro (though technically Los Angeles). We are also willing to travel anywhere in L.A. and Orange counties if you are selling a home and moving to this area. With our vast local knowledge, we can help find the perfect neighborhood for you. 

Q: What is your commission?

A: It sort of depends and that's something we can discuss when we have our initial consultation. Typically we receive 2% commission rates whether buying or selling. Sellers always pay commissions for both the seller's and buyer's agent. Now, if we represent you to sell and buy a home, we may be able to reduce commission rates on the selling side. 

Q: OK, so now what? What's the first step in working with your brokerage?

A: First off, let's get together for an initial consultation. You can explain what your desires are and one of our agents will explain what we can offer. From there, we will ask that you sign an exclusive agency agreement and then we're off on our big adventure together.