First-Time Home Buyer Tips

Shima 0 comments 08.12.2025

Buying a house can seem tricky as there is no one way that is the “right” way. As my trusted advisor and lender says, “Everyone is situated different, and everyone has different needs.”

Sometimes an individual reaches out to me and says, “I’m ways away from being able to buy a home, but when should I begin?” My answer is always the same… now!

A common misconception is that you need to be financially ready to speak to a lender. That’s not true! You may not have enough saved or are working on fixing your credit. That’s all okay and even great!

Speaking with a lender and understanding the home-buying process doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be ready to buy immediately after connecting with them. Instead, it will be a time where you can ask questions, learn your options, and set up a “game plan” that is worked overtime. More importantly, you can create a relationship with this person who will be guiding you along the way and help you make financial choices that best suite your family. Sometimes, individuals realize they’re ready to buy instantly after meeting and other times, it is a few months or even a year or more later.

Meeting with a lender is a way to help prepare you for your ultimate goal of attaining homeownership.
 
If purchasing a home is a goal of yours today, tomorrow, or in the near future… I would be happy to connect you with my preferred lender who can schedule a private meeting to discuss your finances, goals, credit, etc.

They can cover a lot of good territory with you, where there’s no cost, no obligation, no need to run credit…..just as he says, a good old-fashioned consultation. If I can be of help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at any time.

What is the FHA’s 90 Day Flip Rule?

Shima 0 comments 02.05.2018

What are Closing Costs?

Shima 0 comments 02.05.2018

Dutch Door

Shima 0 comments 28.02.2018

One of my favorite home features will always be a good Dutch door.

 

Culture Committee

Shima 0 comments 02.01.2018

Very excited & honored to be head of the Culture Committee for my office this year. My colleague, Natalie, and I planned our entire 2018 activities for the year.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

Buying a Home in your 20’s

Shima 0 comments 02.01.2018

What is stopping you from living your best life ever?

When planning to purchase a home, be sure to create a list of home "needs and wants." This will allow you to visualize what you want in a home, and then determine what's most important to you.

Happy Holidays

Shima 0 comments 12.12.2017

Wishing you a prosperous holiday season and a happy new year from all of us at

The Kondo Group.

Financially Preparing to Buy a Home.

Shima 0 comments 10.01.2017

When preparing to purchase a home, there are many factors that must be taken into consideration. One of the most important factors is financial preparation.

Below are several suggestions to keep in mind when taking steps to purchase a home. Remember, it is never too soon to financially plan.

Strengthen your credit score

A single 30-day late payment could damage a credit score by as many as 100 points, making home ownership expensive despite today’s low mortgage rates. Taking small steps such as paying your bills on time can have a greater impact in the long run.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage

Different mortgage programs require different credit scores. A financial counselor who knows the range of mortgage products available in the market can explain the various programs and how a consumer’s credit score opens the door to one or more different programs. Learn your mortgage options in advance to expedite the home buying process.

Factor in maintenance

There is more to owning a home than the monthly mortgage payment- maintenance needs to be factored into the budget along the utility and commuting costs, which could be very different when renting. Writing a pros and cons list between different locations can help eliminate any doubts.

Taking a closer look at these key numbers will help you determine if you are truly ready for your first home purchase or your next home purchase.

Call me today to learn the steps to buying a home.

Simple tips for selling a home NOW.

Shima 0 comments 24.10.2016

Spring is often cited as the time to sell a home, but many prospective home buyers are willing to work through the heat and make a move in the summer and even fall. The following tips will help homeowners make a quick sale and get the best price.

1. Make a strong first impression 

To ensure potential buyers get a good first impression, consider small touches such as a new mailbox or front mat, or maybe go for a more expensive upgrade with a new front door. Front entrances should be kept and, if needed, pressure-washed to remove grime. You would be surprised how much it makes a difference. Depending on the neighborhood, a moved lawn, trimmed bushes, or a well-kept rock garden can go a long way. Topping off potted plants or a garden with fresh mulch or soil is another good and inexpensive idea.

 

 2. Fix It

Homebuyers do not want to have to deal with a misaligned closet door, leaky sink, or cracked window when they are trying to move and get settled in their new home. Fix everything before listing a home, as often the extra work may push the home down buyers' lists. It could also leave them worried that they will need to make more serious repairs once they move in.

3. Create an inviting outdoor space

A beautiful yard might make all the difference. Buying a table with an umbrella and adding or sprucing up potted flowers can help buyers see themselves entertaining and enjoying the outdoor space. Think of going on a vacation and the emotions you feel when relaxing and sipping a cool refreshing drink. That is the emotion you want your out living area to evoke.

4. Deep clean EVERYTHING.

Several real estate professionals emphasized the importance of cleaning every nook and cranny of the home, down to shampooing the carpets, before showing it to prospective buyers. Sellers can hire professionals or prepare for a weekend spent cleaning, but it needs to get done.

5. Consider Staging

Homeowners may have a style that fits their needs and tastes, but buyers may see things quite differently. Many buyers cannot see past furnishings, particularly when they are outdated, and staging can help illuminate a home's potential.

6. Stay Organized

A walk-in closet could be a selling point, but it is hard for buyers to get a good feel for a cluttered space. Crammed closets and cabinets make spaces look smaller than they really are, which can be a huge deterrent to potential buyers. In addition to clearing out clutter, it is recommended that you add organizational systems, should space and budget permit. Purging unneeded items also helps make the move to a new home easier. Alternatively, store belongings in a storage unit until the sale is completed.

7. Let the light in

Natural light can lift moods and make rooms dazzle. Consider maximizing that light by hanging mirrors as well- the space will feel larger and brighter, and buyers will be less likely to resent being inside rather than at the beach.

Why Inglewood is HOT?

Shima 0 comments 23.09.2016

Guys, as predicted, Inglewood is coming up! The new casino opened yesterday and will have its grand opening this November. In addition, The Forum has been rated #4 in the WORLD for venues, Inglewood was voted Los Angeles's, "Neighborhood of the year" in 2014 and crime has been the lowest for five consecutive years.

Property values have increased 85.6% since 2012 and in January of 2016, the Los Angeles Rams announced their return to Los Angeles and residency in Inglewood! They are working on a $20 million dollar senior citizen building that will open next November and did I mention that it's home to Randy's Donuts?

It's not a bad time to buy in Inglewood right now.