The real estate industry can be a very tricky one to navigate, especially if you are a newcomer or a first time buyer. As with any other major life decision, it always helps to have guidance and expert advice. However, finding the RIGHT person to provide this for you can seem tricky. Read on for tips on how to choose the right agent and determine if he or she is the best for you.   Finding an agent is not a difficult task, however finding a GOOD agent amongst the many agents you hear about can be a little trickier. A good place to start is with your immediate social circle. Begin by asking for recommendations from people who recently sold and/or bought a home in your area or call a realty office and the manager to recommend an agent who specializes in your type of property and community... 03/03/2010

Buyers often have a difficult time determining how to arrive at a price to make an offer. Often, avoiding an offer at full asking price, can save the buyer money. Other times, full asking price is the only price at which a seller would be willing to let go of a property. Read further to learn about some of the things that affect the price at which a buyer is willing to make an offer. Condition. A property's condition certainly plays a factor in determining the price a buyer wants to offer. A smart buyer will have a good idea of how the condition of the desired property compares to the general neighborhood; namely whether it fits in or stands out. Condition takes many things into account. For example, structural condition is probably the most important to consider. Walls, ceilings, floor... 02/18/2009

Size DOES Matter! You've said it, you've heard, you know it's true!  Size matters! Especially when it comes to your Realtor!  If you've been watching the news, you know that it's a Buyer's Market and it's a GREAT time to buy a home!  But when you're looking for an agent to give you the personalized attention you deserve, remember, SIZE MATTERS! Do you want to be just another file number or do you want your agent to become your partner! Choosing and buying a home is one of, if not the most important decision you will make in your life.  Don't get lost in the crowd with agents that are more concerned with getting listings and closing deals than they are concerned about meeting your needs and EXCEEDING your expectations! At Crestico Realty, we have a specialized Buyer's Team that focuses O... 01/25/2009

Looking to hire an experienced loan processor for our office in Irvine, Ca. Business is picking up and we need help. We are a solid mortgage broker that has been in business 16 years and we're here to stay. We need someone that is familiar with DO, DU, LP, and FHA. We have a great work environment and we offer good compensation. If anyone can recommend such a person we would be very grateful. Please feel free to contact me anytime. 01/07/2009

Can you guys tell me what would be a politically correct, green vehicle to take clients in to show them property? I am a mortgage broker but every so often I have some clients that want me to represent them in the purchase side as well. What kind of car says success but does not go over the top?? What do most of you drive your clients in? Thanks again in advance for your help and wisdom. 09/19/2008

These are some thoughts that might make live a much happier and sucessful life. 1. Dream more while you're awake. 2. Try to make at least 3 poeple smile everyday. 3. Life isn't fair, but it's still good. 4. Life is too short to waste hating anyone. 5. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree. 6. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does. 7. Make peace with the past, so you won't screw up the present. 8. Don't compare your life with others. You have no idea what their journey is all about. 9. Forgive everyone for everything. (my personal favorite). 10. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time. 11. Do the right thing. 12. Call your family often. 13. the best is yet to come, enjoy the ride. These thoughts were written by Brett Noel coaching you to Success. 09/18/2008

Like every cloud has a silver lining, so does inflation for every home owner. Here is my point. If you bought a home 10 years ago and had a payment of $1,000.00, it was a substantial expence. The same $1,000.00 today is very manageable and not as much of a burden.That being said, keep in mind that we just came through the years with the lowest inflation in recent history. Now imagine what the same $1,000.00 will have the power to purchase in the next 10 years. Maybe a good lunch??? Seeing what the gas prices, food prices and energy prices have done in just the last year, we all can be sure that inflation is here to stay and will rage in the years to come. Here is the only viable solution for renters and buyer that are on the fence. Go out and buy a home from this depressed market at a r... 09/17/2008