Digital Listing Presentation

Denise Scandura

Denise Scandura
714-337-4047

[email protected]
denisescandura.com

DRE #01352299



MORE LOCAL

MORE KNOWLEDGEABLE

Recognized as one of the most innovative brokerages in the United States, Seven Gables Real Estate began doing
business from a trailer on a vacant street corner in the foothills of Tustin in 1976. From the beginning, we dared to be
different because we knew that real estate needed to be practiced with a unique flair, an uncommon knowledge and
brilliance in sync with the distinguished clientele that looks to us for representation and guidance.

Today, making good on the promise to be a leader and differentiator, we help clients buy and sell more homes in our
primary markets than any other company.

We create long lasting client relationships, through each unique buying and selling experience... one home at a time.
We may not have the most agents, but be assured they are among the most educated and experienced in the business.
When it comes to providing personal attention and unequivocal market knowledge to every person we’re entrusted to
represent, we firmly believe that quality far outweighs quantity.

CORPOR ATE TUSTIN OFFICE COAST OFFICE

12651 Newport Ave | Tustin 19671 Beach Blvd., Suite 100 | Huntington Beach
714.731.3777 714.500.3300

ANAHEIM HILLS BOLSA CHICA

5481 E Santa Ana Cyn Rd | Anaheim Hills 16872 Bolsa Chica St #100 | Huntington Beach
714.974.7000 714.840.0400

ORANGE OLD TOWNE HUNTINGTON HARBOUR

229 N Glassell St | Orange 16875 Algonquin St | Huntington Beach
714.497.3550 714.840.1031

CORONA DEL MAR

2737 E Coast Hwy | Corona del Mar
949.675.2311

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT DENISE

I’d love to share a little bit about myself with you. I was born and raised in the restaurant business ‘Edwards Steak
House’. My family’s motto was always “The Customer Comes First’ and that’s the exact service you will receive from
me. I am a CNO: A Consultant, Negotiator and the Overseer for all of the steps in your Real Estate transactions. My
passion and attitude creates results. As a Real Estate Consultant since 2002 I pride myself on being ethical, honest and
will always do my due diligence for you. I take pride in helping each and every client ...step by step…to find that special
place called home and/or an investment property.

Education San Marino High School
University of Southern California, BAFA

Denise Scandura

REALTOR® ASSOCIATE

714.337.4047
CalBRE #01352299
[email protected]

I’d love to share a little bit about myself with you. I was born
raised in the restaurant business
‘Edwards Steak House’. MthMye feaxEmaciEltys’TsemrvToictetHoywoEuaswTaillwlEraeAycseM“ivTehferoCmustmo
Comes First’ and that’s

I am a CNO: A Consultant, NBegEoHtiatIoNr aDnd tIhTe OAveLrsLeer for a
the steps in your Real Estate transactions. My passion and atti
creates results. As a Real Estate Consultant since 2002 I pride m
on being ethical, honest and will always do my due diligence for
nise ScanduraTOR® ASSOCIATE
D E R S I take pride in helping each and every client ...step by step…to
37.4047 L E A
RE #01352299 HtIhaPt spTecEiaAl plMace called home and/or an investment property.

[email protected] Education:
San Marino High School
MIKEUHnIiCvKeMrsiAtyNof Southern California, BMAIFCAHAEL HICKMAN

President Huntington Harbour

Manager

LISA GREUBEL RYAN HILDEBRANT

Vice President IT Director

First American Title Advantage One Escrow First American Technology
Kim Cosenza Linda Hoshaw Home Warranty James Butler
Louis Dennis Roberta Curly

Tommy Corbett

KELLI MITNER JENNIFER HARTY

Denise’s Transaction Marketing Director
Coordinator

Transaction Coordinator Transaction Coordinator Leading Real Estate Technology
Kelli Mitzner Lisa Dowell Companies of the World Alvin Wong

CLIENT
TESTIMONIALS

“I wanted to thank you for everything you did for me while I was “When I wanted to sell my house to the renter, the young women living
purchasing another home for investment purposes. I had been looking there was unsure about the process and whether or not she was ready
on my own and attending open houses for many months. During that to take this big step. Denise came in and was very helpful at assuring
time I met many agents all of whom wanted to represent me but I did her and answering all our questions. Denise make it look and feel easy.
not feel comfortable enough with them to have them represent me. It The sale went through fast and everybody is happy!”
felt more like they wanted a commission rather than to be a true asset
to me and represent me fairly in a transaction. So I kept working on my - BRUCE AND ASTRID
own until I met you. It was clear from the start that you were different
and you stood out from the rest. You were professional, informative, “You know I am your biggest fan, and always admire your attention to
clearly an experienced expert in all areas of real estate combined
with being kind and helpful and interested in my true needs, goals detail and courteous and professional way you handle your business.
and expectations. So I decided to work with you and never regretted
a moment. Your advice and guidance while making the offer and the Keep up the good work.”
art of negotiating until it was accepted was impressive. You were
able to help me locate the most professional and knowledgeable loan - RON
originator who had the necessary experience to make a potentially
complex loan into an easy process. I felt comfortable with your “Denise Scandura is my favorite realtor, without question. She is
recommendations for home inspections, escrow and title. It is
clear that you have surrounded yourself with other professionals extremely professional, but also very caring and thoughtful. Denise truly
in the industry that are also top talent, interested in the client and
their experience during the transaction was well as being fair and does enjoy helping people find their “ perfect” home. I felt it was time
forthright. So although your transaction was complex, the whole
team made it easy. I have dealt with many real estate agents in the for me to sell my large family home in Orange and downsize to a more
past and you definitely have impressed me. I hope to do business with
you in the future and will definitely be recommending you to all my manageable condo in Huntington Beach. This was not an easy decision
friends and professional associates..”
to make and it took me a couple of years of looking before I was actually
- GLENN JONES
ready to make the move. Denise was so very patient and helpful during
“Thanks again for you tremendous efforts in helping me to find
and land a suitable rental. As per your tag line, you were always this time. I know it has to be frustrating at times to have a client keep
there, step by step. I will readily and with enthusiasm send any real
estate referrals to you that I can. Hope to stay in touch and bring looking but not buying. But Denise never made me feel like a burden or
you more business!
a waste of time. She understood my situation and never pressured me.
- LANCE
I did finally find my perfect new home. I am so very comfortable and

happy with my decision. I know that Denise protected me throughout

this whole process and that she worked very hard to get me the best

possible deal. Selling your family home and moving is a very stressful

experience. Having Denise at my side through all this was a blessing.

Knowing that she was looking out for my best interested was very

reassuring. My only mistake was not using Denise as my agent when I

sold my home in Orange. I am positive that this while experience would

have been much easier and less stressful if I had used Denise for both

transactions. I highly recommend Denise to you if you are in the market

for a new home or are planning to sell your current home. You could not

find a better realtor.”

- PAM WARREN

CLIENT
TESTIMONIALS

We were extremely fortunate to have Denise as our agent in the recent always keeping me informed. She promptly returned all phone calls
purchase of a beautiful home in Huntington Beach. Denise not only and was readily available. Mrs. Scandura scheduled meetings and
represented us in the purchase of the home, but more importantly, inspections at times most convenient for me. She was also willing to
helped us to sell our house in Long Beach in a timely manner. There meet at locations way out of her area. Mrs. Scandura is kind, friendly,
were so many hurdles - The Long Beach house has to be repaired and and very patient (even with my countless trivial questions). I really
staged to sell, The Huntington Beach home was being purchased on cannot imagine getting any better service. If you are looking for an
a conditional offer, and were pregnant with out baby boy who was ethical and very knowledgeable real estate agent who wants the best
born shortly after escrow closed. There were times that it seemed like for you, I would highly recommend Denise Scandura.
any little detail could throw off the whole sale. But Denise made it all
happen through constant communication, a very savvy knowledge of - NATALIE J. MERCADO
the market and a positive, fun attitude. By the end of the journey, I felt
that we has made a friend. At one pint she even brought over her whole Denise embodied professionalism at every step of our real estate
family to help clean up the house for sale. It’s funny, after escrow closed adventure with her. Denise even threw us an amazing “Meet Your
on both homes, I got a little sad. I was actually going to miss Denise with Neighbors” Party to help us meet our new neighbors. Thank-you Denise
her constant texts and phone calls. It’s not very often that you can say, for your kindness and help making our CA real estate dreams a reality.
we throughly enjoyed the process of buying over home!
- DIANA WYDO
- LISA BUSHONG
I am a recent first time homebuyer and had a very positive experience
I am a recent first time home buyer and had a very positive experience working with Denise Scandura through the purchase of my new home.
working with Denise Scandura through the purchase of my new home in Mrs. Scandura’s pith is her integrity, encapsulated by her impeccable
September 2015. Buying a home for the first time can be both exciting service. She exhibited excellent communication throughout the
and overwhelming. I was unfamiliar and native about the market, the purchase, always keeping me informed. She promptly returned
buying process, the paperwork, etc. of real estate by Mrs. Scandura all phone calls and was readily available. Mrs. Scandura scheduled
put my mind at ease and held my hand throughout the process. She meeting and inspections at times most convenient for me. She was also
was patient, courteous, but most importantly, she was extremely willing to meet at locations way out of her area. Mrs. Scandura is kind,
knowledgeable and provided outstanding advice. She demonstrated friendly, and very patient (even with my countless trivial questions).
great ability to illustrate understanding of contract details and was She was patient, courteous, but more importantly, she was extremely
able to diligently provide me with the information in ways that I could knowledgeable and provided outstanding advice. She demonstrated
comprehend. Furthermore, I can attest to Mrs. Scandura’s ethical and great ability to illustrate understanding of contract details and was
fiduciary duties. The house was a direct sale and she was a dual agent. I able to diligently provide me with the information in ways that I could
never once felt misrepresented or mislead. She always provided me with comprehend. I really cannot imagine getting any better service. If you
unbiased advice and I could tell she had my best interest in mind. Mrs. are looking for an ethical and very knowledgeable real estate agent who
Scandura’s pith is her integrity, encapsulated by her impeccable service. wants the best for you, I highly recommend Denise Scandura.
She exhibited excellent communication throughout the purchase,
- TRISHA DIOCSON



CONCIERGE LISTING SERVICE, AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE TO YOUR SELLERS.

• When an agent takes a listing, they can notify your escrow officer of choice or escrow manager, Tina Sung Parsons
and she will open a prelim with the title company of their choice and have it reviewed by the agent’s escrow officer
of choice at Advantage One Escrow.

• The escrow officer will contact the listing agent and review needs or contact the seller directly subject to
agent’s preference.

• Escrow officer will obtain payoff information
• Escrow officer will obtain property tax information
• Escrow officer will review FIRPTA Information (both California State and Federal) for the seller
• Escrow officer will obtain and review HOA information and costs for the seller
• Escrow officer will obtain and submit any Entity Documents needed from the seller (ie) Trust, Corporation, LLC,

Limited Partnership , etc. to the title company for review and ascertain any additional needs that may be required.
• Escrow officer will coordinate with the listing agent regarding correct property address and seller name for the

contract and any other additional contract items that maybe needed as a result of title’s review.
• Escrow officer will have the seller complete a Statement of Information and present to title for a more thorough

review ahead of time.
• Escrow officer will put together Net Sheets for the seller at listed price and any subsequent offer prices that

seller wishes to review.

LET US HELP YOU AS THE LISTING AGENT TO HAVE AN INFORMED SELLER,
A SMOOTH PROCESS AND A PLEASANTLY ORGANIZED EXPERIENCE.

Concierge Notary Services:
• Advantage One Escrow provides free Concierge notary services for the execution of both the Buyers’ and

Sellers escrow opening packages, either in their home or in our office, subject to customer preference.
The notaries are skilled in the contents of the escrow opening packages and the Escrow Officers are
available to the notaries to answer any questions during the signing.

Did you know that Advantage One Escrow offers a repeat customer discount of 25%? That’s right!
If your seller or buyer has ever had a sales transaction with Advantage One Escrow, we will automatically

discount their escrow fee by 25% in an effort to show our gratitude for their loyalty!

Tina Sung Parsons | Escrow Manager | 714-962-0999 Ex.206 | [email protected]
19671 Beach Blvd, Ste. 103 | Huntington Beach, CA 92648

MORE U.S. HOME SALES VOLUME THAN ANY NATIONAL REAL ESTATE BRAND

OIL NUT BAY, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS | US $10,950,000
VOLUME SHOWN IN BILLIONS OF DOLLARS

Actual member statistics for LeadingRE and estimates for other networks using average sales units per agent and average sales price for firms in each respective network from published sources.

STRATEGIC & TACTIC

INTERNATIONAL
MARKETING REACH

Through the connection to Leading Real Estate
Companies of the World,® we market our properties to
a targeted audience by leveraging the highly trafficked
websites of over 500 top local real estate brokerages
and the connections of 120,000 associates in over 50
countries.

Our network introduces over 30,000 home buyers
and sellers moving from market to market annually
– more than any other real estate organization and a
beneficial source of buyers that is unmatched by any
other network.

$8 HomeSmart
$16 Better Homes & Gardens
$23 Realty Executives
$29 Real Living
$36 ERA
$52 Sotheby’s
$57 Prudential
$82 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
$118 Century 21
$181 Keller Williams
$231 Coldwell Banker
$240 RE/MAX
$321 Leading Real Estate
Companies of the World®

HOME STAGING
FIRST IMPRESSIONS

WE OFFER THE ART OF MAKING YOUR HOME INVITING
TO A POTENTIAL BUYER

SELL YOUR HOME FOR TOP DOLLAR!

Using Our Listing Advantage Program

LISTING ADVANTAGE PROGRAM

LISTING ADVANTAGE PROGRAM

DO YOU NEED CASH FOR NECESSARY REPAIRS?

Make sure your home is move-in ready by improving your home before you sell! With no money out of your pocket!

Call now to learn more about our Listing Advantage Program!

• Use Seven Gables Real Estate’s Listing Advantage Program (LAP) for Cosmetic Repairs. We can
provide you the funds necessary to enhance your property.

• NO PAYMENTS NECESSARY! The loan is due when the home is sold through escrow.
• Use your own contractors, or we can assist you with recommendations.

Real Estate home improvement T.V. shows are all the rage today, where homeowners renovate homes, make
improvements and sell (flip) homes for higher prices than they would have gotten before the upgrades. You can do
essentially the same thing – and make more money after upgrading your home before you sell…using our LAP Program!

Today’s real estate market is more competitive than ever before. Make sure your property will receive
the highest possible price in the shortest amount of time!

Kitchen Remodel Upgraded Appliances Fresh Paint
Landscaping Needs New Roof Home Repairs
Complete Remodel Add a Bathroom
New Carpet/Flooring

INTEGR ATED
MARKETING

Complete In-House Marketing Studio
Professional Graphic Design
Professional Photography
Full Motion Property Video
Aerial Photography & Videography
Twilight Photography
Luxe Narrated Video Tour
Full Motion VideoBox
Optimized Online Exposure
Property Website Design
Email Announcements
Social Media Exposure
Facebook Advertising
Online Target Advertising
Property Brochure/Flyer
Just Listed Postcards
Open House Invitations
Broker Preview
Open Houses

ONLINE PRESENCE
WORLDWIDE EXPOSURE

LOCAL, REGIONAL, NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE

SevenGables.com Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Twitter.com
All Broker Websites (70,000 subscribers) Listingbook
(900 syndicated sites) iProperty.com Frontdoor.com
Zillow.com MSN Real Estate RealtyStore.com
Trulia.com Cyberhomes Openhouse.com
Realtor.com AOL Real Estate Google.com
Redfin.com HomeFinder.com Facebook.com
Luxuryportfolio.com Yahoo! Real Estate …and more!
Juwai.com Listing Point Realty

FINANCING YOUR HOME

Having worked with a number of different mortgage companies, I would recommend contacting:

FINANCING YOUR HOME

Having worked with a number of different mortage companies, I would
recommend contacting:

Mark Tookey

First Centennial Mortgage
Senior Mortgage Consultant
NMLS#267646

Mark Tooke94y9.6N2M5.L4S7#72767646

First Centennial Mortage - Senior Mortage Consultant
949.625.4777

Susan van Wagenen

CMG Financial

Susan van WMoartggeagneeLonanNOMffLicSe#r244248

Terra Mortage - NMMoLrtSa#g2e44C2o4n8sultant
714.323.5559 714.323.5559

Jason Thibodeau NMLS#296586

Thrive Financial - Loan Officer
714.632.3223
What if we’ve already spoken with a mortgage company? My philosophy is that it never hurts to get a second opinion. Although
you may have already discWushsaetdiyf owuer’svietuaaltrieoandwy istphoakneonthweirthlenadmero,rftograygoeucroomwpnapnryo?teMctyiopnhIilwosooupldhystirsotnhgalyt ietnnceovuerrage you to
have another set of eyes rheuvriteswtoyoguertoabsjeecctoivneds.opinion. Although you may have already discussed your situation
with another lender, for your own protection I would strongly encourage you to have an-
other set of eyes review your objectives.

HOW VALUE IS DETERMINED

YOUR HOME THROUGH THE EYES OF...

Yourself...

Your Lender...

Your Buyer...

Your Appraiser...

Your Tax Assessor...

The highest realistic price for your home will ultimately be
determined by the market. It is highly unlikely that a buyer
will pay more for your property than would have to be paid
for a similar property with like amenities and features. All
other considerations aside, homes that do not meet the
current competition in price and terms simply do not sell.

88 types of Turbulence

Things that might go wrong during your transaction

The Buyer/Borrower: 26. Borrower/coborrower/seller dies.
1. Does not tell the truth on loan application. 27. Buyer is too picky about property in price range
2. Has recent late payments on credit report. they can afford.
3. Finds out about additional debt after loan 28. Buyer feels the house is misrepresented.
application. 29. Veterans DD214 form not available.
4. Borrower loses job. 30. Buyer comes up short of money at closing.
5. Coborrower loses job. 31. Buyer does not properly “paper trail” additional
6. Income verification lower than what was stated money that comes from gifts, loans, etc.
on loan application. 32. Buyer does not bring cashier’s check to title
7. Overtime income not allowed by underwriter for company for closing costs and down payment.
qualifying.
8. Applicant makes large purchase on credit before The Seller:
closing. 33. Loses motivation to sell (job transfer does not go
9. Illness, injury, divorce or other financial setback through, reconciles marriage, etc.).
during escrow. 34. Cannot find a suitable replacement property.
10. Lacks motivation. 35. Will not allow appraiser inside home.
11. Gift donor changes mind. 36. Will not allow inspectors inside home in a timely
12. Cannot locate divorce decree. manner.
13. Cannot locate petition or discharge of 37. Removes property from the premises the buyer
bankruptcy. believed was included.
14. Cannot locate tax returns. 38. Cannot clear up liens – is short on cash to close.
15. Cannot locate bank statements. 39. Did not own 100% of property as previously
16. Difficulty in obtaining verification of rent. disclosed.
17. Interest rate increases and borrower no longer 40. Encounters problems getting partners’
qualifies. signatures.
18. Loan program changes with higher rates, points 41. Leaves town without giving anyone Power of
and fees. Attorney.
19. Child support not disclosed on application. 42. Delays the projected move-out date.
20. Bankruptcy within the last two years. 43. Did not complete the repairs agreed to in
21. Mortgage payment is double the previous contract.
housing payment. 44. Seller’s home goes into foreclosure during
22. Borrower/coborrower does not have steady escrow.
two-year employment history. 45. Misrepresents information about home and
23. Borrower brings in handwritten pay stubs. neighborhood.
24. Borrower switches to job with a probation 46. Does not disclose all hidden or unknown defects
period. and they are subsequently discovered.
25. Borrower switches from job with salary to 100% The Realtor(s):
commission income.  47. Has no client control over buyers or sellers.

48. Delays access to property for inspection and 70. Unique home and comparable properties for
appraisals. appraisal difficult to find.
49. Does not get completed paperwork to the
Lender in time. The Escrow/Title Company:
50. Inexperienced in this type of property  71. Fails to notify lender/agents of unsigned or
transaction. unreturned documents.
51. Takes unexpected time off during transaction 72. Fails to obtain information from beneficiaries,
and can’t be reached. lien holders, insurance companies or Lenders in a
52. Misleads other parties to the transaction – has timely manner.
huge ego. 73. Lets principals leave town without getting all
53. Does not do sufficient homework on their necessary signatures.
clients or the property and wastes everyone’s time. 74. Loses or incorrectly prepares paperwork.
75. Does not pass on valuable information quickly
The Lender(s): enough.
 54. Does not properly pre-qualify the borrower. 76. Does not coordinate well, so that many items
55. Wants property repaired prior to closing. can be done simultaneously.
56. The market raises rates, points or costs. 77. Does not bend the rules on small problems.
57. Borrower does not qualify because of a late 78. Finds liens or other title problems at the last
addition of information. minute.
58. Lender requires a last-minute second appraisal
or other documents.  The Appraiser:
59. Lender loses a form or misplaces entire file.  79. Is not local and misunderstands the market.
60. Lender doesn’t simultaneously ask for all needed 80. Is too busy to complete the appraisal on
information. schedule.
61. Lender doesn’t fund loan in time for close. 81. No comparable sales are available.
82. Is not on the Lender’s “approved list.”
The Property: 83. Makes important mistakes on appraisal and
 62. County will not approve septic system or well. brings in value too low.
63. Termite report reveals substantial damage and 84. Lender requires a second or “review”
seller is not willing to fix. appraisal.
64. Home was misrepresented as to size and  
condition. Inspectors:
65. Home is destroyed prior to closing.  85. Pest inspector not available when needed.
66. Home is not structurally sound. 86. Pest inspector too picky about condition of
67. Home is uninsurable for homeowner’s property.
insurance. 87. Home inspector not available when needed.
68. Property incorrectly zoned. 88. Inspection reports alarm buyer and sale is
69. Portion of home sits on neighbor’s property. canceled.



QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE

The difference between a Real Estate Consultant and
a traditional Realtor is the quality of questions asked!

Are we the right fit for each other?
What are my options?
What makes you different?
How does referring business to you help me?
How are you compensated?
What can I expect from the home selling process?

The Life of an Escrow

Understanding your escrow transaction

The Life of an Escrow

Understanding your escrow transaction

BUYER SSTTAART SELLER
SELECTS A REALTOR SELECTS A REALTOR
BUYER
BUYER SELECTS HOME AND SELLER
GETS PRE-APPROVED BY SUBMITS CONTRACT WITH PREPARES HOUSE FOR
LENDER IF NEW LOAN NEEDED LOAN STATUS REPORT (LSR)
VARIOUS INSPECTIONS SHOWING & SELLING
BUYER SELLER
VIEW HOMES WITH ORDERED
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL APPRAISAL ORDERED BY & REVIEWS AND ACCEPTS
INSPECTION REPORTS SENT COMPLETED FOR LENDER CONTRACT FROM BUYER
TO APPLICABLE PARTY, LOAN DOCUMENTS PREPARED BY ESCROW OPENED AND
REVIEWED AND NOTIFICATION SENT LENDER & SENT TO ESCROW PRELIMINARY REPORT ORDERED
PRELIMINARY REPORT RECEIVED
AND APPROVED BY BUYER BUYER BUYER
CLOSING DOCUMENTS DEPOSITS REQUIRED FUNDS ADVISES ESCROW COMPANY OF
COMPILED BY ESCROW COMPANY
SEPARATE APPOINTMENTS SET: LENDER “FUNDS LOAN” HOME INSURANCE COMPANY
BUYER & SELLER (SENDS FUNDS TO ESCROW) BUYER
SIGN DOCUMENTS
DOCUMENTS RECORDED BUYER RECEIVES FINAL LOAN
AND ESCROW CLOSED RECEIVES KEYS FROM APPROVAL FROM LENDER
AFTER RECORDING, CONFIRMED REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
ESCROW COMPANY LOAN DOCUMENTS
DISBURSES FUNDS RETURNED

TO LENDER FOR REVIEW
ESCROW COMPANY ENSURES
ALL CONTRACT CONDITIONS

HAVE BEEN MET
FINAL DOCUMENTS SENT
TO INTERESTED PARTIES

10540 Talbert Ave, Suite 100 W,
For more information contact your loFcoaluAndtvaainntaVgeaOlleney,esCcrAow92of7fi0ce8r.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER CLOSING

Congratulations! The closing papers have been signed and you are now holding the keys to
your new home. At First American Title, we strive to deliver an exceptional level of service in all
phases of the homebuying process and are pleased to offer the following information that you
may find helpful in making a smooth transition to your new home.

KEYS TO HOME UTILITIES
Your real estate agent has supplied you with If you have not already done so, contact the
a set of keys that unlocks the doors to your local service providers to make arrangements
new home. To ensure security, you should for electricity. gas, water, phone and cable or
immediately change the locks upon moving in. satellite services. While some providers may
need as little notice as a day to activate your
OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE POLICY services, it’s best to give them a few weeks’
You may have received a First American Title notice.
Owner’s Policy at the closing table. If this ser-
vice is not available in your area, you will re- RECORDED DEED
ceive your policy by mail in four-to-six weeks. Once recorded in the official county
records, the original deed to your home will
LOAN PAYMENTS be mailed directly to you, generally within
At the closing, written instructions were four-to-six-weeks.
provided with details for making your first loan
payment. You should receive your loan coupon PROPERTY TAXES
book before your first payment is due. If you At the closing, property taxes were prorated
don’t receive you book, or if you have questions between the buyer and the seller based on
about your tax and insurance escrows, please occupancy time in the home. You may not
contact your lender. receive a tax statement for the current year
on the home you buy; however, it is your
FILING FOR HOMESTEAD obligation to make sure the taxes are paid
If the home you purchased is in a homestead when due. Check with your lender to find out
state, you may be required to declare if taxes are included with your payment and
homestead or file for a homestead exemption. if the tax bill will be paid by the lender from
A homestead exemption reduces the value of a escrowed funds.
home for state-tax purposes. Please check with
the local county recorder’s office to determine POSTAL SERVICES
eligibility, filing requirements and deadlines. Your local Post Office can provide the
necessary Change of Address forms to
DRIVER’S LICENSE expedite the deliveryofmail toyournewhome.
If you new home is located in a state other You can make the Change of Address process
than your previous resident, you may be re- faster and easier by notifying everyone who
quired by law to obtain a driver’s license is- sends you mail of your new address and the
sued by your state of residency. Check with date of your move two weeks before you
the State Department of Motor Vehicles to move. Many bills and statements provide an
determine eligibility and requirements. area for making an address change.

New Government Regulations that
will affect the length of your Escrow

Big changes have taken place since October 3 rd 2017 for
how homebuyers finance their mortgage. In some cases
closings that now speed through in 30 days may require up
to 60 days or perhaps even longer. After the housing crash,
Congress felt that we needed a better system of mortgage
disclosures and procedures so that Americans can better
protect themselves and make the best choices when getting
home loans.

The Consumer Financial Protection bureau was created
and charged with accomplishing this task. The bureau
decided that the four existing disclosure forms required
under federal law would be changed into two new one that
would be more comprehensive. This new document is called
‘a Loan Estimate and a Closing Disclosure. These forms are
known as the “TILA RESPA INTERGRATED DISCLOSURE’
or more commonly called TRID. In addition, the closing
process was unified so that all 50 states use the same forms
and procedures.

Who’s effected by the changes? that the escrow closed. The biggest issue with
these new forms may well be that they seem
The changes apply to residential properties that to significantly downplay the importance of
include a mortgage as part of the transaction— getting owner’s title insurance policies, which
buyer, seller as well as refinancings. The is money well spent. Getting a proper Title
rules are designed to protect the buyer/ search and securing Title Insurance is a must
borrower, but they will affect all parties to for home buyers.
the transaction. Lenders are bearing the brunt
of ensuring compliance with the new rules, What must Buyers and Sellers do?
making the lender responsible for getting all
the other parties on board. The rules Do Not Escrow Companies—used to finalize the process
apply to All Cash Deals. at the last minute to accomplish everyone’s
rush to close-- -now they need to get the final
What is changing? closing information to the mortgage lender at
least 10 days before the closing date so that the
Buyers applying for loans will get a Loan lender can complete the Closing Disclosure in
Estimate (instead of the previous Good Faith time to get it out six days before the scheduled
Estimate) within three days of applying for the closing. Realistically, to accomplish this, the
loans. The new form is designed to highlight buyers and sellers could need to add as much
key terms to enable the borrowers to shop as three to four weeks to their closing time
around for the best deals. It’s supposed to be lines depending on their circumstances.
user friendly. To make matters even more confusing, all of the
standard contract forms have been recently
The Closing Disclosure must be received by changed to address the new rules. That has
the borrower three business days before the required real-estate professionals to become
closing. If the form is mailed, couriered or familiar with a whole new set of forms.
emailed the lender must allow and extra three
days on top of that. This means that the closing Be sure you choose the correct real estate
can’t occur for at least six business days after agent, like myself, who has been trained on how
the lender send out the completed Closing to deal with this. Source: Article by Gary M.
Disclosure. This is a Major Change from Singer, Florida Sentinal as seen in OC Register.
the previous procedure, when some of the
information was still being filled in on the day

B A C K S TA G E
VIEW FROM
CONTR AC T
TO CLOSING

Just some of the i’s I’m dotting and t’s I’m crossing

Coordinate Home Inspection Deliver an Experience that is Referable
Copies of Contract to Seller Copies of Contract to Seller
Provide Comparable Sales for Appraiser Copies of Contract to Selling Agent
Schedule Appraisal Copies of Contract in Office File
Follow Up on Appraisal Original Documents Filed with Agent Obtaining Offer
Appeal for Increase in Appraisal is low Sales in Progress Checklist Completed
Contact Lender Weekly to Track Processing Earnest Money is Recorded
Relay Loan Status to Seller Earnest Money is Deposited in Escrow Account
Fax Copies of Contract to the Title Company Closing File Forms and Files Updated
Contact Existing Lender for Assumption Requirements Showings are Restricted as Seller Requests
Compile all Required Items for Assumption Coordinate with Selling Agent and Lender
Submit all Required Items for Assumption Fax Copies of Contract and Addendums to Lender
Order Title Insurance Commitment Assist in Arranging Financing
Review Title Insurance Commitment Review Credit Report Results
Confirm Selling Agent Received Title Insurance Confirm Purchaser is Pre-Qualified
Note Title Insurance Requirements Provide Credit Information to Seller
Review the Home Inspection Results Have Buyer’s Hazard Insurance Delivered
Closing Date Confirmed Confirm Purchaser Received Title Insurance Commitment
Provide “Home Owners Warranty” for Closing

HOW TO SELL YOUR HOME
FOR TOP DOLLAR FAST!

What you are about to learn could literally be the difference
between thousands of dollars in your pocket or thousands
of dollars in your buyer’s pocket. This report is part one of a
complete home selling system that I’ve developed over the years
of testing and experimenting to find the absolute best home selling
strategies. You’re About to Learn Marketing Secrets That Not One
in a Hundred Home Sellers Knows—And It’s Going to Give You a
Big Advantage Over Your Competition!

These are the Seven Secrets

1 Why Buyers Love Model Homes—and How to
Make Your House Show Like One.

2 Here’s How a 25-Cent Upgrade could Earn You
an Extra $500 to $1,000 More When You Sell

3 How to Avoid the Five Most Expensive Mistakes
People Make When they Sell a Home

4 How To Find Out What Houses in Any Neighbor-
hood are Really Selling For & How Long It Takes.

5 Here’s How To Get a Free Market Report On any
Neighborhood.

6 Why Most Real Estate Advertising Will Never
Sell Your House-And What To Do About it.

7 Find Out How Much Your House is Worth Over
the Phone—for Free.

WHY BUYERS LOVE MODEL HOMES AND

HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME SHOW LIKE ONE

One of the major factors in getting your house to sell quickly is simply put:
Make it attractive. Most buyers select their home based on emotion and
then justify the decision with facts, so it’s important to make the house
inviting and pleasant. Yours is not the only property the prospective
buyers will see. You are competing with model homes that may have been
professionally decorated and homes that have no children, no pets and Mr.
& Mrs. Perfection as owners.

Start with the outside.

Are shrubs overgrown? Oil in the driveway? How does the grass look? Do
the flower beds need weeding and mulching? Try very hard to see your
grounds through an independent observer’s eyes. Trim the shrubs or plant
new ones if they’re lacking. Houses with no landscaping in the front lose
thousands of dollars of value in the mind of the buyer. Adding a few well-
placed blooming flowers also add appeal. If the grass in the front yard is
particularly non-existent, consider sodding. Do some price shopping in
this; sod is not cheap but there are some good prices available. Let’s say it
costs $600.00 to sod the front yard, but your house payment is $800 per
month. If you save on month of selling time, you are $200 ahead. (By the
way, you can probably get away without sodding the backyard.) Kitty liter
in the driveway will absorb the oil and grease stains. (Then remove the kitty
litter.) Next, go around and clean up the yard. Remove any toys, tools and/
or building supplies. Here’s the acid test: if you don’t see it in a model home
yard, don’t have it in yours. That goes for the bag of charcoal by the grill,
too; however, the (non-rusty) grill can stay. If your grill has rusted, remove
the rust spots by scrubbing with a wire brush or with coarse steel wool
dipped in kerosene. When the grill is completely dry, paint with a brush
or spray paint. Now Look at the Exterior Is the paint fading or chipping? Is
the color outdated or too personal? Is mildew growing? If the house needs
painting, choose a neutral color. White cream (not yellow) and light gray are
good colors for appealing to most people. If you want some ideas for paint
combinations, look at three or four model home communities that cost
$20,000.00 or $50,0000.00 more than your neighborhood and copy one of
them. One last note on painting: Always give the front door and door trim
a fresh coat of paint or stain even if you paint nothing else. Buyers stand at
the front door waiting to get in give them a good first impression.

NOW LET’S GO INSIDE

Go through room by room and pack up 30% of the how decorators use small pieces of furniture.)
accessories. If you doubt the wisdom of this, go back to Minor redecorating is recommended. If your carpet and
those model homes and compare their countertops with vinyl are outdated colors or style, change them. Off-white
yours, their coffee tables and end tables with yours. See carpet and nice wood floors/laminate are best; this makes
what I mean? The cardinal rule is this: “The way you live the rooms look larger and cleaner. If the existing carpet
in a home and the way you sell a home are two different padding is 5/8” thick or more and is not worn down, reuse
things.” I know this will take some time and may seem it (unless the pets have done a number on it.) If replacing
like nuisance, but remember you are in competition with the pad, select a very thick one then just a modest grade
other properties. He who wins the Good Housekeeping of carpeting. The feel will be plush and expensive, but it’s
Award probably sells his house first…and for the highest not. If carpeting is in good condition and neutral in color,
dollar. Also look at it this way…you’re going to be moving have it cleaned.
anyway, so just consider this advance packing. By the
way, label the moving boxes and stack them neatly in the In the kitchen, clean appliances inside and out. Remove
garage floor to ceiling. grease and grime by scrubbing with undiluted vinegar. Scrub
the inside of the refrigerator with baking soda; not only does
Specifically, pack any collections and family photo you it not scratch, but it removes odors. Get rid of the kitchen
have displayed. Too much of your personality in evidence odors by pouring hot salt water down the drain twice a week.
does not allow for the potential buyer to “mentally move Grind citrus peeling or apples cores in the garbage disposal.
in.” Pack everything from the cabinets and all closets that Leave a small uncovered container of vinegar in the corner of
you don’t need on a routine basis. You want to create the your kitchen counter, this too will eliminate odors.
perception of roominess.
Have bathrooms scrubbed to pass a whiter glove inspection.
In the linen closet, remove everything but a week’s worth If tubs are rusting, have them re-glazed. Clean grouting of
of linens. Fold them neatly and color-coordinate them. the tub with Tilex. Re-caulk the tub and shower. Clean fixture
I’m not kidding; this stuff sales are made of. In the clothes with white vinegar. If you’re at home, light a small candle for
closets, remove out-of- season clothes. Pack them away atmosphere and pleasant (not overpowering) aroma. Hang
and put them in the garage. Arrange your shoes neatly. a set of designer bath towels in the most prominent rack
Hang your clothes by category: all blouses together, all complete with verbal instructions to your family not to use
shirts together, and so on. them! (Remember, you’re in show biz now.)
Now take another walk around the house. Are there
rooms that are cluttered with too much furniture?
Remove extra chairs, side tables and maybe even the 100”
(2.5m) sofa which is really too big for the room. (Notice

PAINTING THE WALLS

If painting is required, use flat latex except in the kitchen and baths where you’ll use semi-gloss latex. If the walls are dirty,
experiment to see if scrubbing them is easier than painting. Dunn Edwards offers a nice paint called Weathered Coral which
creates a very nice warm inviting feeling. If you have wallpaper, make sure it’s clean and up-to- date. If not, strip it. (Hint: Some
wallpaper is easy to strip if first sprayed with window cleaner.) After stripping it, either paint or re-wallpaper, depending on the
condition of the walls. Sponge painting is also an easy, attractive alternative. Repair badly cracked plaster, loose door knobs
and crooked light fixtures.

Correct faulty plumbing. Leaky faucets discolor porcelain and call attention to the plumbing defects. To remove mineral stains
from such leaks, pour hydrogen peroxide on the stain, and them sprinkle with cream of tarter. Leave this for 30 minutes before
scrubbing. Bad stains may require two or three applications. Next Make your House Sparkle If you don’t have time or the
inclination, hire someone to thoroughly clean the house. Clean windows inside and out. My secret solution is: a drop of two of
Dawn dishwashing soap in a bucket of water. Remember to clean mini-blinds, curtains and drapes.

PETS SHOULD BE OUT OF
SIGHT AND OUT OF SMELL

If you have pets, you need to get rid of pet orders and it’s recommended that the pets
themselves be kept out of the way and out of the house during showings, if possible.
Some people get uneasy around animals and this may detract from the prospect’s
attention. Getting pets out of the way is unfortunately, much easier than getting pet
orders out of the way.

If flooring has been repeatedly stained with animal urine, you’ll probably have to
replace it to get rid of the smell. And that means the carpet, the pad, the carpet strips
and the baseboard trim; the sub flooring will need to be treated to kill the odor. Put
a small uncovered dish of vinegar in the room where your pet sleeps; this will remove
doggy smells. Of course, put the dish off the floor so the dog doesn’t drink the vinegar!
To absorb odors in the cat litter box, add a cup of baking soda to the littler.

Food smells can work for you or against you. Baking bread, cookies and pies all
smell good. Spaghetti sauce is a delicious smell. Frying fish or liver and onions is
objectionable. And of course nowadays, the smell of cigarette smoke is offensive to
many. If your house has an unpleasant smell, use scented candles or fragrant flowers.

FINALLY, TACKLE THE THING
CALLED THE “GARAGE”

This area is the catch-all where everything goes that has no other place to go, so it’s
usually a mess. Therefore, if your stage area isn’t neat, no one would surmise that
you must take really good care of the whole house. You’re going to say I’m going to
extremes but believe me, this works every time. Hose down the floor and if there are
still stains remaining, paint it a porch gray. Paint the garage walls off-white using a
flat latex paint.

Now, after the paint is dry—put everything back in the garage piece by piece. Throw
out what you won’t be taking with you. Pack what you can add to the stack of neatly
labeled boxes. Then organize what’s left. If you have a storage shed, organize it the
same way and if it needs a coat of paint or stain, do it. An open bag of charcoal will
absorb moisture in the stage shed.

If you have too much “stuff” for the shed, rent a small storage unit. Decluttering can
make all the difference in the world.

LIGHTING PLAYS AN IMPORTANT PART

During the day, have all your curtains and blinds open. If the day is cloudy, turn on all the lamps as well. At dusk,
put the blinds down, but leave them open. Leave the drapes open. Turn on all lamps and overhead lights. At night,
use the same light formula as above, but close all blinds, curtains and drapes. Adding candlelight is effective.
Turn off the television during all showings of your house as it’s distracting. Put on soft background music. Once
you’ve “set the stage,” leave the house for the agent to show it. Prospects can more easily look at the house with
no distractions. They’ll also feel freer to ask questions to their agent. Finally, buyers can “mentally move in” better
without the current owners around.
Are you Curious how a 25 cent upgrade could earn you $500 or $1,000 more when you sell?
If you have 60-watt bulbs or low-watt bulbs in your house, it can make the house seem smaller and less
appealing especially in the kitchen and family rooms. Upgrade all of your light bulbs to 100 watts and your house
will appear bigger, more inviting and may just earn you an extra $400 to $1,000.

HOW TO AVOID THE FIVE MOST EXPENSIVE MISTAKES
SMART PEOPLE MAKE WHEN THEY SELL THEIR HOUSE

Mistake #1 is to stay out of the way and let people look at their own
Basing their asking price on needs or emotion rather than pace. They’ll get a better feel for the property and whether
the market value. Many times, people make their pricing the house is for them.
decisions based on how much they paid for or invested into
their house. This can be an expensive mistake. Overpriced Mistake #4
homes take longer to sell and eventually net the seller less Choosing the wrong agent or choosing them for the wrong
money. Consult with a professional real estate agent. They reasons. Many homeowners list their home with the agent
can assist you in pricing your home correctly from the be- who tells them the highest price. Or they list with the agent
ginning. who works for the biggest company. You need to choose the
agent with the best marketing plan and track record to sell
Mistake #2 your home.
Failing to “Showcase” their Home First impressions are the
most important. Experience shows that for every $100 in Mistake #5
repairs that your home needs a buyer will deduct $300 to Not knowing all of their legal rights and obligations. Real
$500 from their off. Thoroughly clean and prepare your estate law is complex. The contract you sign selling your
home before you put it on the market if you want top dollar. home is legally binding. Small items that are neglected in a
contract can wind up costing you thousands of dollars. You
Mistake #3 need to consult a knowledgeable professional who under-
One of the biggest mistakes enthusiastic sellers make is to stand the ins and out of a real estate transaction.
follow buyers around and try to SELL them on the property.
This can have a negative effect on the buyers. The best thing

HOW TO FIND OUT WHAT HOUSES
IN ANY NEIGHBORHOOD ARE

REALLY SELLING FOR AND HOW
LONG IT TAKES

Have you ever talked to someone who tells you that
they sold their house and “got what they wanted?”
You remember what they were asking, so that must
be what they sold for—so you’d think. Or someone
tells you that all the houses in your neighborhood
have been selling for full price because the market is
so hot right now, or the buyers are out these like nev-
er before. One thing you can be sure of when you’re
getting ready to price your house for sale is that most
of the information you hear on the street is not what’s
happening in reality. Buyers and sellers tend to over-
or- understate the prices they sold for or bought from
but the reality is that you can get information on what
houses are actually selling.

HERE’S HOW TO GET A FREE MARKET REPORT ON ANY NEIGHBORHOOD

Before you consider buying a home in any neighborhood, you need to get the real information on what’s happening in
the market. You can find out what houses are really selling for and how long it takes them to sell by calling me direct at:
714-337- 4047, so you don’t pay too much. Having the right information can literally save you thousands of dollars-
especially when you’re buying a home- so don’t end up overpaying for a house because you don’t know they market. Find
out How Your House is Worth over the Phone –For Free Before you decide to sell your house, the next step is to get an
idea of the current market value of your property-based on the current market activity in your neighborhood as well as
the total market.

This can be done over the phone in just a few minutes. When you call me direct, we’ll ask you some questions about your
property that will allow us to prepare a market analysis for you.

Here’s some of the information we’ll need:

-Your Name and address

-The approximate square footage of your house

-Your lot size

-The number of bedrooms, bathrooms and some basic floor plan information.

-Any upgrades you may have done to the home since you’ve owned it. Once we
have all this information, we’ll prepare a complete market evaluation and set up an
appointment.

Just give us a call and we’ll get to work right away!
Looking forward to getting together soon!