Real Estate

Five Easy Ways to Stay Connected with Clients This Fall

By Suzy Lins
September 21, 2025

The month of September marks a natural reset for our schedules. Our routines get reestablished with summer vacations over and kids back in school as we look ahead to the holidays. Fall is a perfect time of year to reconnect with past clients and stay top-of-mind. Here are five easy ways to nurture those relationships.

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Seasonal Check-In

Checking in with your past clients and sphere of influence does not have to be elaborate. A simple call, text, or email with a friendly “Hope your fall is off to a great start!” is a great place to start. Keep it personal. Ask how the family, kids, new home, etc., are doing. If the conversation flows naturally to your business, ask if they would like a market analysis of their home or offer a market update of their neighborhood. Providing value without “selling” will allow your relationship to continue to develop.

Back-to-School Community Connection

Fall is the perfect time to position yourself as the go-to person in town. Highlighting local school events, sports schedules, or fundraising efforts shows you are plugged in to the community. Consider becoming a sponsor for a team or event in the area. Your name on a banner or in a program is a great way to show your commitment to the community and also create an awareness of you and your real estate business.

Seasonal Home Maintenance Tips

There are other ways you can show your value beyond the transaction. Consider creating a quick checklist of seasonal home maintenance tips, such as gutter cleaning, HVAC service, or preparing your home for cool weather. This list can be in the form of a postcard, blog post, or a downloadable PDF that you can email or text to your past clients.

Client Appreciation Gesture

There are many low-cost, high-impact things you can give a client to show your appreciation and stay top-of-mind during the holidays. A pumpkin spice baked treat or a note with a gift card to the local coffee shop is a nice nod to the cooler weather of fall. Another idea to kick off the fall season would be to drop off a small pumpkin adorned with a festive ribbon with your business card attached. Simple gestures like these are often the most memorable.

Social Media Engagement

The holidays are the perfect time of year to ramp up your social media. Encouraging interaction and making light-hearted connections on social media is an easy way to engage with your clients and sphere of influence. Share a personal story or tradition your family does this time of year. A fun idea that shows your community spirit would be to spotlight a local pumpkin patch or coffee shop that sells fall-themed beverages. Another idea is to post fall-themed polls asking your followers to share their favorite things to do during the holidays. 

In the end, we all know that this business is about relationships. Small, intentional gestures this time of year will help that relationship grow. Choose one or two of these touchpoints that feel authentic to you and get going. Consistent connection with your clients and sphere of influence now will lead to referrals later.

Suzy Lins

About the author: Suzy Lins is the Communications Director for CENTURY 21 Discovery and a Business Etiquette Consultant. For more information about CENTURY 21 Discovery you may call (714) 626-2000.

Fall Selling Season: What Homeowners Should Know

By Stephanie Goedl
August 21, 2025

The transition from summer to fall often signals a shift in the real estate market. With the school year beginning, many sellers put their plans on pause. For the determined or motivated seller, this can actually be an advantage. With fewer homes on the market, their property has a greater chance to shine. At the same time, many casual buyers step back during the fall months, which means those who are still searching are highly focused and ready to make a move.

Here are some practical ways homeowners can help their listings stand out during this time of year:

Curb Appeal Matters More Than Ever

  • Seasonal landscaping: Keep lawns neat, shrubs trimmed, and add simple pops of color with potted mums, marigolds, or pumpkins by the front entry.
  • Exterior refresh: Pressure wash walkways, clean gutters, and add a fresh welcome mat for a crisp, cared-for look.
  • Lighting: With shorter days, good exterior lighting is key. Update porch lights or add pathway lighting to make evening showings warm and inviting.

Inside Staging with a Seasonal Touch

  • Cozy accents: Layer in subtle seasonal touches like throw blankets, warm-toned pillows, or a bowl of fresh apples or a vase with fall foliage to bring in a seasonal vibe.
  • Declutter and neutralize: Keep holiday décor minimal. A few tasteful pieces can add warmth, but too much can distract buyers from the home itself.
  • Maximize natural light: Clean windows, pull back curtains, and add warm lighting to keep spaces bright and welcoming, even on overcast days.

Pro Tips for Agents to Share with Clients

  • Smart upgrades: Small investments such as a coat of neutral paint, a seasonal wreath, or professional staging services can make a big impact.
  • Price strategically: Homes priced realistically in the fall market are more likely to sell before the holiday season begins.
  • Highlight move-in readiness: Buyers motivated to close before year-end—sometimes for tax advantages—are drawn to homes that are clean, updated, and move-in ready.

Fall is often overlooked, but it can be a powerful selling season when approached strategically. With the proper staging, curb appeal, and pricing, a home can stand out and attract motivated buyers who are eager to find the right property before year’s end. If you’re considering selling, talk with a Century 21 Discovery agent for a tailored plan to make the most of this season’s opportunities.

Stephanie Goedl

About the author: Stephanie Goedl is Chief Operating Officer and Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services we provide contact us at 714.626.2000 or Careers@C21Discovery.com.

The Real Estate Agent’s Guide to Using Your Phone Like a Pro

By Suzy Lins
July 21, 2025

A real estate agent’s most powerful tool isn’t a flashy website or a stack of business cards; it’s their mobile phone. It’s the lifeline of their business, connecting them to clients, leads, and opportunities at all hours. Yet, surprisingly, many agents aren’t using it to its full potential. In this post, we’ll explore simple and effective ways agents can optimize their phone habits to boost their business and present a more polished, professional image.

Answer Your Phone

As salespeople, it may seem obvious that agents would always answer their phones. Yet in reality, many don’t. Some agents rely solely on texting—and some even include that preference in the remarks section of their MLS listings. But in a relationship-based business like real estate, relying only on non-verbal communication is a missed opportunity. The tone, urgency, and emotion in someone’s voice can provide valuable context you won’t get from a text.

Then there are agents who won’t answer calls from unknown numbers. But how many potential leads are being missed simply because someone didn’t recognize the number? Most smartphones now label spam or telemarketing calls, so let technology work for you. A professional answers their phone, or, at the very least, returns the call promptly.

Your Outgoing Voicemail

When someone reaches your voicemail, what do they hear? Does it reflect the professional image you want to project? Take a moment to call yourself from another phone and listen.

A strong outgoing voicemail should include:

  • A friendly greeting
  • Your full name
  • Your brokerage name
  • A prompt for the caller to leave a message
  • (Optional) A timeframe for when they can expect a callback

Be mindful of your recording environment as well. Background noise can be distracting and sound careless. Avoid recording near busy streets, construction sites, or loud indoor spaces.

Your Voicemail Box

Few things are more frustrating than reaching someone’s voicemail only to hear, “This mailbox is full.” It signals disorganization and a lack of follow-through, two qualities you don’t want associated with your business.

Clean out your voicemail messages regularly. And remember: on many phones, deleted voicemails also need to be cleared from the “Deleted Messages” folder to truly free up space. Take a minute to test your voicemail and ensure everything is working properly.

Where Are You Making Your Calls?

Be aware of your surroundings when making or answering business calls. Background noise, whether it’s a sporting event, a crowded restaurant, or street traffic, can make you sound distracted and unprofessional.

If you need to take a call while you’re out and about, it’s okay to answer and politely ask to call back from a quieter location. This not only shows respect for your caller but also helps maintain the quality and focus of your conversation.

Also consider your client’s privacy. Avoid discussing sensitive details in public spaces or where conversations could be overheard. A little awareness goes a long way toward building trust and maintaining professionalism.

The bottom line is, your phone is more than just a tool for your business, it’s a reflection of your brand. Being intentional about how you answer calls, manage your voicemail, and communicate on the go will set you apart as a polished professional real estate agent. Small habits can make a big impression, and in this business, that impression could be the difference between winning or losing your next client.

Suzy Lins

About the author: Suzy Lins is the Communications Director for CENTURY 21 Discovery and a Business Etiquette Consultant. For more information about CENTURY 21 Discovery you may call (714) 626-2000.

10 Common Questions About Home Inspections (And Why They Matter)

By Stephanie Goedl
May 21, 2025

When buying a home, there’s a lot to think about—offers, appraisals, escrow, and inspections. For many buyers, the home inspection process can feel like just another box to check. But it’s one of the most important steps in protecting your investment and making sure you’re fully informed about the property you’re purchasing.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, here are 10 common questions about home inspections—and why they matter.

Photo Courtesy of Canva pro

1. What is a home inspection, and do I really need one?

A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s condition, typically done before finalizing a home purchase. Even if the house looks perfect, an inspection can reveal hidden issues that could cost thousands down the line, making it a wise investment for peace of mind.

2. What does a home inspection include?

Most inspections cover the home’s major systems and components, including the roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, foundation, attic, and appliances. After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any concerns, defects, or areas that might need attention.

3. What will it cost?

Costs can vary depending on the size, age, and location of the property, but most home inspections cost between $400 and $700. Although it may feel like an added expense, it’s a small price to pay for the valuable insights it provides.

4. Why can’t I do it myself?

Even if you’re handy, only a certified home inspector has the training, tools, and experience to identify structural, mechanical, and safety issues that may not be visible to the average buyer. Their objective report is crucial to making an informed decision.

5. Can a house fail a home inspection?

Not exactly. An inspection doesn’t result in a “pass” or “fail”—instead, it offers a snapshot of the home’s condition. It’s up to the buyer to decide how to move forward based on the findings.

6. How do I find a home inspector?

Your real estate agent can recommend trusted inspectors they’ve worked with. You can also search online or check professional organizations like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) or InterNACHI for qualified professionals.

7. When do I call a home inspector?

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll schedule a home inspection during your contingency or due diligence period. Time is usually limited, so acting quickly is best to keep things moving forward.

8. Do I have to be there?

You’re not required to attend the inspection, but it’s highly recommended. Walking through the property with the inspector lets you ask questions in real time and see any potential issues firsthand.

9. What if the report reveals problems?

Almost every home has a few issues—it’s completely normal. Depending on what’s found, you may be able to negotiate with the seller for repairs, credits, or a price reduction. Your agent will help guide you through those conversations.

10. If the house is in good condition, did I need an inspection?

Yes! A clean report offers peace of mind and can help you plan for future maintenance. It’s reassurance that you’re making a sound investment—and that’s always worth it.

Final Thoughts

A home inspection isn’t just another step in the home-buying process—it’s a powerful tool that helps protect you from unexpected surprises. With the right inspector and guidance from your real estate agent, you’ll be in a much better position to move forward with confidence. At Century 21 Discovery, our agents are here to help you every step of the way.

Stephanie Goedl

About the author: Stephanie Goedl is Chief Operating Officer and Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services we provide contact us at 714.626.2069 or Careers@C21Discovery.com.

Are You Ready for the Spring Selling Season?

By Joe Lins
March 21, 2025

Spring has traditionally been the time of year when the real estate market heats up. That was until COVID hit, and since then the last few springs have been anything but typical. Fortunately, 2025 looks to be a return to the traditional spring selling season, where more sellers are ready to put their homes on the market, and buyers are eager to make a move.

As a real estate agent, you need to be prepared to hit the ground running as the weather warms up. The spring market moves fast, and the agents who are best prepared will have a competitive edge. Here are some key steps to get you and your clients ready for a successful Spring Selling Season.

Reach Out to Sellers

Many homeowners have been hesitant to list their homes due to market uncertainties. Now is the time to reconnect with those sellers who have been on the fence.

  • Update Their Home Valuation – Provide an updated Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to reflect the latest market conditions. Show them how their home compares to recent sales and active listings.
  • Refresh the Net Sheet – Give sellers an updated estimate of their potential net proceeds. Knowing their bottom line can be a powerful motivator to move forward.
  • Help Them Prepare – Offer guidance on home preparation, from decluttering to deep cleaning. Connect them with trusted vendors such as painters, landscapers, stagers, and handyman services to maximize their home’s appeal.
  • Boost Curb Appeal – Remind sellers that first impressions matter. Encourage them to spruce up their landscaping, paint the front door, and make minor repairs to create a welcoming entryway.

Additionally, set realistic expectations regarding pricing, marketing strategies, and timeline. Some sellers may not be aware of the nuances in pricing a home, so it’s essential to educate them on current trends.

Get Your Buyers Pre-Approved

With more buyers entering the market, competition will increase. Ensuring your buyers are financially prepared will give them a stronger position when making offers.

  • Confirm Pre-Approval Status – Some buyers may have been pre-approved months ago, and their financial situation or interest rates may have changed. Encourage them to get an updated pre-approval with a reputable lender.
  • Educate on Financial Do’s and Don’ts – Remind buyers not to make any large purchases, change jobs, or take on new debt before closing on their home. These actions can affect their loan approval.
  • Clarify Their Home Criteria – Work with your buyers to identify their non-negotiables versus their wish list. This will help them move quickly when the right home comes along.
  • Set Up Listing Alerts – Ensure your buyers receive real-time notifications when homes that match their criteria hit the market. In a competitive season, speed is crucial.
  • Network with Other Agents – Let your colleagues know what your buyers are looking for. Off-market or coming-soon listings might be a great match.

Get Your Checklists Ready

Having a well-organized system will save you time and keep your transactions running smoothly.

  • Listing Checklist – Review your process for onboarding new listings. Ensure you have a step-by-step guide that includes pricing strategy discussions, marketing plans, and open house scheduling.
  • Buyer Checklist – Streamline your buyer onboarding process. Have a clear roadmap that outlines financial steps, home tours, offer strategies, and next steps after escrow opens.
  • Marketing Materials – Update your digital and print marketing materials, including social media graphics, email templates, and flyers, to reflect the spring market.
  • Vendor List – Keep a list of trusted vendors ready to share with clients, from inspectors to moving companies. Being a one-stop resource enhances your value as an agent.

Watch Your Business Bloom

The spring selling season moves quickly, and the most prepared agents will thrive. By proactively reaching out to sellers, ensuring buyers are financially ready, and fine-tuning your systems, you’ll set yourself up for a busy and successful season.

Are you ready to make this your best spring yet? Start today, and watch your business bloom!

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

Why Real Estate Agents Need a LinkedIn Account

By Suzy Lins
February 21, 2025

In today’s digital world, having a LinkedIn account is no longer optional for professionals—including real estate agents. While platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are great for showcasing properties, LinkedIn offers unique benefits that can elevate your business, expand your network, and establish your authority in the industry. Plus, people on LinkedIn have a different mindset than just the scrolling they do on other social media platforms. They have a business mindset. Here’s why every real estate agent should have an active LinkedIn presence.

Establish a Professional Online Presence

Your LinkedIn profile serves as your digital business card. A well-optimized profile helps you present yourself as a credible and knowledgeable real estate professional. Potential clients, referral partners, and other industry professionals can easily find and learn about your experience, specialties, and achievements.

Expand Your Network and Build Relationships

Real estate is all about relationships. LinkedIn provides a platform to connect with other agents, mortgage lenders, home inspectors, investors, and potential clients. Expanding your network opens the door to new business opportunities, partnerships, and referrals that can help grow your real estate career.

Showcase Your Experience and Achievements

Unlike other social media platforms, LinkedIn provides a structured way to highlight your professional accomplishments. You can display your successes, certifications, awards, and client testimonials, giving prospective clients confidence in your abilities and expertise.

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Position Yourself as a Thought Leader

Sharing market insights, home-buying tips, and real estate trends on LinkedIn positions you as an industry expert. Posting valuable content keeps your connections engaged and establishes your reputation as a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional in the field.

Boost Your Online Visibility

A fully built-out LinkedIn profile can help improve your search engine rankings. When someone Googles your name, your LinkedIn profile often appears at the top of search results, giving potential clients another avenue to learn about you and your services.

Leverage Endorsements and Recommendations

Client testimonials and peer endorsements add credibility to your profile. LinkedIn allows past clients, colleagues, and business partners to leave recommendations, which serve as powerful social proof that you’re a trusted and competent real estate agent.

Integrate with Your Other Marketing Efforts

Your LinkedIn profile complements your overall marketing strategy. You can share blog posts, link to your real estate website, promote your listings, and connect with potential clients in a professional setting. It serves as a central hub for your expertise and a way to direct traffic to your other online platforms.

Final Thoughts

LinkedIn is a powerful tool that can help real estate agents build their brand and grow their business. If you don’t already have a LinkedIn profile, now is the time to create one and start leveraging the platform to boost your career.

Suzy Lins

About the author: Suzy Lins is the Communications Director for CENTURY 21 Discovery and a Business Etiquette Consultant. For more information about CENTURY 21 Discovery you may call (714) 626-2000.

Email Etiquette for Real Estate Agents

By Suzy Lins
October 21, 2024

Mastering Email Etiquette for Real Estate Success

In the fast-paced world of real estate, email remains one of the most important tools for communication with clients, fellow agents, vendors and your support team. How you handle your email interactions can significantly impact how you’re perceived in the industry. From building trust with clients to coordinating with colleagues, mastering email etiquette helps ensure that your messages are professional, clear, and effective. Here are some key email etiquette tips to keep in mind as a real estate professional.

Response Time: How Quickly Should You Reply?

In real estate, time is often of the essence, especially when dealing with active buyers, sellers, and time-sensitive transactions. Ideally, aim to respond to emails within 24 hours. For inquiries regarding new listings or client questions, a quicker response—within a few hours—can make all the difference in securing or retaining business. If you need more time to gather information, send a quick acknowledgment like, “Thanks for your email, I’ll get back to you by [date/time].” This reassures your client that you’re on top of things and builds confidence in your reliability.

Crafting the Right Greeting for Clients and Colleagues

First impressions are key, especially when interacting with potential clients, fellow agents, or service providers. When emailing clients for the first time or addressing colleagues within your brokerage, a formal greeting like “Dear [Name]” or “Good afternoon [Name]” sets a professional tone. For ongoing clients or close colleagues, a more casual “Hi [Name]” is appropriate, but avoid overly casual greetings like “Hey,” as this can come across as unprofessional. Each interaction is an opportunity to reinforce your professionalism

Professional Email Signature: Make It Count

Your email signature in real estate serves as an extension of your brand and provides essential information. At a minimum, include your full name, title (e.g., Realtor®, Broker), the name of your brokerage, phone number, and a link to your website or social media profiles (such as LinkedIn or Instagram if relevant to your client base). You may also need to include your professional license number, depending on your region. Keep your signature simple and easy to read. Long, complicated signatures can overwhelm recipients, making important details harder to find.

Ending Emails with a Polished Sign-Off

Your email sign-off is just as important as your greeting. Common professional sign-offs in real estate include phrases like “Best regards,” “Sincerely,” or “Thank you.” These sign-offs convey respect and professionalism, leaving the recipient with a positive impression. Steer clear of overly casual or personal sign-offs like “Cheers” or “Take care,” unless you’re certain it fits the relationship you have with the client or colleague.

The “Reply All” Feature: Use with Caution

The “Reply All” function is often overused and can lead to unnecessary email clutter. In real estate, where many transactions involve multiple parties—clients, agents, escrow officers, lenders—it’s easy to flood inboxes with replies. Before hitting “Reply All,” ask yourself if everyone on the email chain needs to see your response. If not, reply directly to the necessary individual(s). Keeping email chains clean and focused can save time and avoid overwhelming your colleagues or clients with irrelevant information.

Conclusion

By following these email etiquette guidelines, real estate agents can ensure their communication is clear, professional, and effective, leading to better client relationships and smoother transactions. In an industry where time and trust are everything, mastering email communication can set you apart and contribute to long-term success.

About the author: Suzy Lins is the Communications Director for CENTURY 21 Discovery and a Business Etiquette Consultant. For more information about CENTURY 21 Discovery you may call (714) 626-2000.

Who Are You Listening To?

By Joe Lins
September 21, 2024

In today’s world, real estate information is everywhere—national news channels, online blogs, podcasts, social media influencers, and even dinner table conversations. With so many sources of information, it can be easy to get overwhelmed or misled. But whether you’re a real estate agent, buyer, seller, or just someone interested in the housing market, one important question remains: Who are you listening to for your real estate advice?

Getting information from the wrong sources can not only confuse you but may also lead to poor decisions when buying or selling property. Understanding where to find accurate, trustworthy, and relevant information is the key to making smart real estate choices.

For Real Estate Agents: Local Expertise Over National Pundits

As a real estate agent, your expertise and reputation are built on the knowledge you provide to clients. One of the biggest missteps agents can make is relying too heavily on national news for market updates. While national outlets may offer an overview of trends, they don’t account for the unique intricacies of local markets. What happens in Florida or New York doesn’t necessarily reflect the conditions in Southern California—or anywhere else, for that matter.

Instead, agents should rely on trusted local sources like their broker, regional MLS (Multiple Listing Service), or local Realtor associations. These resources offer timely, precise data and trends that reflect the reality of your local market. Your broker can provide valuable insights about local laws, regulations, and market conditions that are essential for your clients. Having this localized knowledge will improve your credibility as an agent and also equip you to provide the most accurate information to your clients.

For Buyers and Sellers: Listen to Your Trusted Realtor

If you’re a buyer or seller, your choice of whom to listen to can significantly impact the success of your real estate transaction. Too often, buyers and sellers make the mistake of basing their expectations on what they hear from national news sources or even a family member who heard something on the news. However, California’s real estate market, for example, operates very differently from other parts of the country. News stories about falling prices or interest rates might apply in other states, but they might not tell the full story in your local area.

Buyers and sellers should always turn to a licensed, experienced real estate agent in their community. A trusted agent understands the local market dynamics—like housing inventory, price fluctuations, and buyer demand—better than any broad national report. They can also provide personalized advice based on your unique situation. If you’re buying, they’ll help you navigate competitive offers, while if you’re selling, they’ll guide you on pricing strategy and the best time to list.

Your agent’s insights will be tailored specifically to your market, making them far more valuable than the one-size-fits-all approach often presented by news outlets or online forums.

Why Local Expertise Matters

The key takeaway for both agents and consumers is that real estate is inherently local. Trends, property values, and even buyer behavior can vary widely from city to city, even from neighborhood to neighborhood. Listening to experts who understand your market is crucial for making informed decisions.

For real estate agents, staying connected to local data and continuing education through your brokerage or professional organizations will ensure you are giving your clients the best advice. For buyers and sellers, working with a local agent who has their finger on the pulse of your community can make the difference between a successful transaction and a missed opportunity.

So next time you’re scrolling through your news feed or hearing about national housing trends, pause and ask yourself: Who am I listening to?

By focusing on local expertise and working with trusted professionals in your community, you can avoid the pitfalls of misinformation and make smarter, more informed real estate decisions. Whether you’re an agent advising clients or a buyer/seller navigating the market, remember that local knowledge is everything in real estate.

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

What’s Going On With Mortgages?

By Joe Lins
July 21, 2024

Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ryan World from Gem Mortgage. We discussed the current mortgage landscape and what potential homebuyers need to know. For agents reading this, I encourage you to share this with your clients. Here’s a recap of what we covered in that conversation:

  • Different Loan Programs and Down Payments
  • Jumbo Loans
  • Current Interest Rates
  • Buying Now vs. Waiting to Buy
  • Having a Buyer Strategy
  • Why a Pre-Approval is Important

Different Loan Programs and Down Payments

Most people opt for conventional loans these days when it comes to loan programs. However, there are several options available:

  • VA Loans: Zero down payment.
  • FHA Loans: Requires a 3.5% down payment.
  • Conventional Loans: As low as 3% down unless it’s a high balance, which needs 5% down.
  • Jumbo Loans: Typically require around 20% down, though you can put less down for a higher interest rate.

Understanding Jumbo Loans

A jumbo loan is any amount exceeding the national conforming loan limit, which is currently $766,550 for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These loans usually have better interest rates but are more challenging to qualify for.

Current Interest Rates

Interest rates are currently in the high sixes to low sevens. The market is quite volatile, and rates can change quickly based on economic indicators and Federal Reserve announcements. Recently, the Consumer Price Index released favorable news, causing a slight improvement in interest rates. However, market fluctuations are constant, and rates can shift based on new information.

Buying Now vs. Waiting for Lower Rates

A common question is whether to buy now or wait for interest rates to drop. Ryan suggests buying now, even with higher interest rates. The rationale is that if rates drop in the future, you can refinance. Waiting for lower rates could lead to increased home prices due to higher demand, making it more challenging to find a desirable property at a reasonable price.

The Importance of a Buyer Strategy

Buyers need a strategy, and one of the most crucial steps in buying a home is hiring the right REALTOR. A knowledgeable, competent real estate agent can guide you through the process to achieve your goals. Having a strategy in this fast-paced real estate market is important, and the right agent can help with this. Our CENTURY 21 Discovery agents are trained for exactly this!

Why Pre-Approval Matters

Getting pre-approved is essential. It helps you understand your budget, manage your expectations, and gives you confidence when working with your real estate agent as you start your home search. Knowing your financial standing upfront prevents disappointment and ensures you focus on homes within your price range.

Contact Information

Those interested in learning more about mortgage options or starting the pre-approval process can contact Ryan World at Gem Mortgage. His phone number is 714-569-3636, extension 2.  

Charge on!

You can watch the video of our conversation HERE.

You can listen to the conversation HERE.

Joe Lins

About the author: Joe Lins is President, CEO and Co-owner of CENTURY 21 Discovery. If you are interested in becoming part of the CENTURY 21 Discovery team or would like more information about our services, training and coaching we provide, contact Joe at 714.626.2069.

So Your Client Is an Entity

The Importance of the Representative Capacity Signature Disclosure

By Amy Leonhardt
July 2, 2024

Person signing holding a pen and signing a document

Real estate transactions involving trusts require a nuanced understanding of legal procedures, one of which is the Representative Capacity Signature Disclosure (RCSD). This document (used with entities such as LLCs, POAs, or partnerships, but most often with trusts) is important when a trust is involved in a real estate transaction because it confirms the authority of an individual to sign real estate documents legally on behalf of a trust. This validation of entity and signer makes the transaction legally binding for the entity, while relieving the individual signer from any legal obligation. If the seller or buyer is correctly identified in the C.A.R. form by entity name and signer name, the full and correct Trust name is provided on the signature page, and the “Entity Buyer” or “Entity Seller” box is checked, then the RCSD is not needed. However, it is often requested by escrow due to one or more of those requirements not being met. To ensure buyer, seller, agents, their brokers, and escrow are protected, your escrow officer may request the RCSD if there are any questions regarding the signer’s legal authority. 

To complete an RCSD, agents must ensure that the trust documentation is in order. This includes the original trust agreement and any amendments that may have occurred over the years. The most recent version of the Trust is needed in order to complete the RCSD and provide for review to the title company. These documents outline who has authority to act on behalf of the trust. Getting these items at the beginning of a transaction ensures not only that the RCSD will be completed fully and accurately but also that escrow documents will be prepared correctly and quickly, with accurate signature lines. The RCSD should be completed and submitted early in the transaction process. If there are any questions regarding the RCSD completion, check with legal professionals who specialize in trusts and estates. They can provide guidance on the RCSD and ensure all legal requirements are met.

By understanding and correctly utilizing the Representative Capacity Signature Disclosure in your transactions involving trusts, you can provide exceptional service to your clients, ensuring that all legal aspects of the transaction are handled correctly and efficiently.

About the author: Amy Leonhardt is an escrow assistant for Equity Escrow Group, Ltd. in Fullerton, California. For more information on the services provided by Equity Escrow Group please contact them at 714.626.2095 or visit their website www.equityescrowgroup.com