Zenia De Los Santos

Name something better than living in a stress-free home. We'll wait.



Not only do I strive to make attaining homeownership as stress-free as possible, but I like to teach homeowners how to make their homes a peaceful haven for them to enjoy.

Swipe to see my top 3 tips for creating a stress free home!

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Brace yourself for Dad Jokes . . .

Father's Day is just a few days away! 😄

I rounded up some places around town to enjoy Father's Day . . .

Swipe to see!

Or please comment below your favorite places 👇🏼☺️

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Wishing you had the keys to your new home in your hands uhhhh....yesterday? 🔑 It may be time to talk about imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is the feeling some people experience when they think they're unworthy or incapable of something.

This feeling doesn't just appear out of nowhere...it's often (subconsciously) passed onto us from our families, our peers, or our culture.

So maybe you'd be the *first* homeowner in your family and deep down you think you're no different than anyone else in your family so homeownership must not be for you.

Wherever the feelings of imposter syndrome stem from, the truth is we are letting others control our lives when we let our feelings of doubt call the shots.

I encourage my buyers to take back control of their own lives by pursuing homeownership IN SPITE OF feelings of unworthiness.

It may be within closer reach than you think and who knows? Maybe the next picture you see of someone popping champagne in front of their new home could be YOUR OWN!

If you want to learn more about buying your first home, even in the midst of imposter syndrome, DM me! We can sit and chat and I will create a personalized plan for you so we can say GOODBYE to imposter syndrome and HELLO to a beautiful home of your own 🏡

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Hi there! So you may be wondering is now a good time for you to buy? Let me be clear: the only time it's a bad time to buy is if you overspend.

So if the interest rates fall back to 2% and you can purchase a home below asking price, it's a bad time to buy if you can't afford it.

And if rates rise to 8% and you purchase a home above asking, it's a bad time to buy if you can't afford it.

You may be thinking, "yea, but what about my situation?" and if so, DM me and let me know you have specific questions! I'd love to chat with you and hear more about where you're at in life and help you come up with a home buying plan you feel good about!

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Was Miley's song stuck in anyone else's head, too?

If you think you're ready for homeownership but are wondering if it's possible for you, read the three steps here then swipe for more details!

1. Schedule a home buyer consult with ME!

2. Hit the road! It's research time!

3. Talk with your local lender.

The good news is all of these steps can be completed in as little as a few days! And I'll be by your side the whole time! DM me to get started.

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Calling all entrepreneurs, hustlers, and small biz owners! 💪🏼

So you started your own biz and things are finally growing steadily. Your business has been your baby and it's starting to take off (cue proud mom tears). And now you can't help but notice For Sale signs throughout your town and you actually get excited thinking about furniture and appliances.

GASP. Could you be ready for homeownership?

If you can own a biz, you can own a home, BUT there are a few things you have to understand, first!

Most mortgage lenders require at least two years of being self-employed (and steadily!) before qualifying you for a home loan.

There are exceptions, like if you were in a similar line of work before or if you had a year of formal training, but for the most part, a solid two years is a non negotiable.

So what's the secret?

Start preparing WAY sooner than you think. Keep track of every penny spent and earned and have a professional handle your taxes so that you have proper and accurate documentation when it comes time to apply for a loan.

In addition to work history, your lender will look at your:

➕ Credit score
➕ Credit history
➕ Debt (debt-to-income ratio)
➕ Savings & Assets (down payment and closing costs)

So paying down debt and/or growing your savings is a great way to pass the (two year) time! Plus, keep grinding and increasing your income as you learn and continue to better your offerings (sky's the limit when you call the shots!)

Being your own boss is an amazing accomplishment, but a lot of biz owners feel defeated when applying for a home loan. Avoid that same feeling of defeat by educating and preparing yourself now so that future (CEO) you can buy a house with confidence!

DM me and I can connect you with a lender today (never too early!)

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Everyone talks about how much buying a new home can cost you, but I'm here to tell you how to SAVE money when buying a new home! Like...big money.

There are four things you can do to help you save potentially thousands of dollars when buying a new home. (Number 3 is CRUCIAL)

1. Hire a team of professionals. Yes, this can cost money...but, if you hire the right professionals, you're sure to save a lot of money (and headaches!) because they know the red flags to watch for, they know what's standard for the local market, and they are experienced negotiators.

2. Do the prep work. Meeting with your lender early on in the process and assessing whether or not you need to do a few things to raise your credit score or pay off debt to get a better rate...these things can save you so much money! Leave being a "spur of the moment" kind of person for vacations and be a tedious planner when buying a home.

3. Home inspection. Pay to have your home inspected! This can save you thousands of dollars (and buyers remorse)! This doesn't mean things won't go wrong with the house (every house needs maintenance and an emergency fund is vital when you're a homeowner) but you can potentially uncover major defects that either the seller can repair (on their dime) or you can make negotiations in your best interest. Ask your agent for reputable home inspectors and show up to the appointment to ask questions!

4. File your homestead exemption. Some title companies do this for you and others require you to do it, but either way, after you purchase a home, always call to be sure the homestead exemption was filed before the clock strikes 12 at the New Year. This can save you thousands come tax time, so don't forget this!

Be sure to save this post for future reference to avoid buyer's remorse and financial distress as a homeowner!

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

Over here, resisting the urge to donate everything and buy all new home decor 😅😩

I don't know about you, but every January, my Home Goals Math doesn't add up. You know what I'm talking about...you take 1 fresh new year + 1 cozy season and subtract 1,000 pieces of holiday decor and your left with a house that feels empty and stale.

I'm no mathematician, but I don't think a shopping spree is the best answer. I think what you need to do is (re)establish your home goals.

Are you saving up for a new place? Are you putting what you want on hold until life's circumstances fall into place? Are you in a home you love but you know it hasn't reached its full potential?

Whatever your situation, take some time to reassess and establish your home goal for the new year. BONUS TIP: write it down. Experts agree you're 42% more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down. 🤯

Good questions to ask yourself to help you establish your goals:

➕ Do you currently own your home or hope to own soon?
➕ Where do you see yourself in two years? 5 years? 10?
➕ Does your current living situation support your desired lifestyle? (Is it affordable? Can you entertain? Are you hesitating adding a new baby or dog you desperately want because your home isn't set up for it?)
➕ If you could change one thing about your home, what would it be?

You, your family, and your dreams are worthy of time and energy it takes to evaluate where you're living and if it's still supporting your life like it should. Remember, your home should be the stage where you act out the life you want. It shouldn't be the star of the show...you are the star and your home should allow you to shine bright ✨☺️

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

You aren't the only one who gets a fresh start! Your home deserves some resolutions too!

In order to give your home a successful year, here are the home maintenance tasks you should be tackling the first month of the year!

🎄 Store Christmas decor in labeled bins (I like to use red and green to keep it festive and easy to find in the storage room) ❤️💚

🚂 Refresh play spaces (grab a few stylish storage bins from Target to clean up the kid toys!)

🔋 Replace smoke alarm batteries

🧼 Clean out the fridge and wipe down shelves

🚿 Replace shower curtain liners

🧽 Wipe down fan blades

🛀 Wash duvet covers and sheets (throw in dryer balls with essential oils for a spa scented infusion)

👕 Organize dresser drawers and closets (Donate anything you haven't worn in the past 12 months)!

💡 Replace burnt out light bulbs

🧹Remove dust from air vents

📝 Make a list of items to stock up on

🏡 Make a list of HOME GOALS!

You got this! 🙌🏼

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

#2023

“Let it sell, let it sell, let it sell!
Oh the buyers out there are frightful, but the market is so delightful. In case your house doesn’t go, read below, read below, read below! 🎶

SWIPE for a shortcut, then come back to read the details!

3 Things to Ask Yourself if your home isn't selling:

🔨 How is the condition?
If your home is in need of TLC, it can lead to a lack of buyer interest. Most buyers want to be able to move right in and avoid taking on projects, especially when it comes to maintenance.

You might want to consider repairing minor things like chipped paint, torn screens, worn out carpeting or an overgrown yard. Often simple fixes can make a big difference.

📍 How desirable is your location?

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION isn't just a fun thing to say! It's one of THE most important factors for buyers and the value of your property.

Location can't be changed so it holds a lot of value. Are you on a busy road? Do you lack outdoor space? That could be the answer to your problem which means you might need to rethink your price.

📸 Double check your marketing.

How does your home look online? Does it make people want to schedule a private tour or do the pictures not do it any justice?

Professional photos and how your home looks online can make or break who and how many people are seeing it. Think of it like a dating profile for your house. Would you swipe right?

💰 Your home is in great shape, the location can't be beat and the photos look amazing. So what's left?

At the end of the day, the price your home is listed at is the factor that is going to make or break whether or not your home sells. Re-evaluate your home price and take the pulse of the market to see if you need an adjustment.

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear.” 🎶

Save this for your new go to holiday playlist. With the perfect blend of classy & fun, it will pair well with home showings or holiday parties!

Frosty the Snowman - Ella Fitzgerald

Sleigh Ride - Ella Fitzgerald

Silver Bells - Tony Bennett

Holly Jolly Christmas - Michael Buble´

White Christmas - Elvis Presley

Happy Holiday - Andy Williams

Blue Christmas - Elvis Presley

Deck the Halls - Nat King Cole

Here Comes Santa Claus - Ramsey Lewis Trio

Show Me the Magic - Jamie Cullum

Christmas is Coming - Vince Guaraldi Trio

Hang Your Lights - Jamie Cullum

I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm - Matt Belsante

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - She & Him

Little Drummer Boy - Count Basie Orchestra

Winter Wonderland - 78 Take

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

Decking the halls while trying to sell your home? Here are my tips!

You know how cozy it is to watch a movie on a Friday night with the glowing lights from the tree creating that perfect holiday ambiance?

While selling during the holidays might feel stressful, it is a great time to create that cozy, homey feeling for buyers.

But how do you do that without sacrificing style? Should you skip the decorating altogether? I vote no! But you do want to possibly tweak your holiday decor a bit.

Swipe to reveal 5 ways to decorate for Christmas that will get it on the nice list in MLS!

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

It’s December 🤗🎄

Consider me your real estate Santa! Stop here to craft your plan for buying a home in 2023 🤶🏼

So happily ever after in your new home didn't happen in time for the holidays? 😭

Maybe you dreamed about heading to the local tree farm to cut down your own tree and spending Christmas in your new home surrounded by your favorite seasonal scents and a warm fire going in the fireplace, Michael Buble´ playing softly in the background...

It sounds dreamy BUT don't let it get you down! Even though you didn't make it into a new home in time for THIS holiday season, doesn't mean you can't get on track and use it as motivation for locking in your new home for NEXT holiday season!

So when should you start the process? Let me get my calendar and lay this out!

Let's say your goal is to be in a new home by May of 2023...

Once you find your new home, we'll need about 30-45 days from contract to closing day so working backwards, that puts us around mid-March.

The next think to think about is how long it's going to take you to find a house.

That means it's time for us to talk because you may need to get that home search started right now! The market & price range you're looking in, will help determine when you should start looking.

The first thing I'd recommend doing is scheduling a buyer consultation (we can do it easily over Zoom or over peppermint mochas - you pick). From there, I can get you set up on a home search and connected with a lender to get your pre-approval going!

If you're reading this thinking - "Yes she is talking to ME!" then what are you waiting for?

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

Best things to keep on hand when hosting...Monica Geller style

🍽 Extra dinnerware
🪑 Extra seating
🧴 Extra toiletries
👜 Designated spot for coats, shoes, purses, etc
🛏 Extra blankets/bedding
🍗 Additional food storage

BONUS ideas: TV trays, ice (unless Phoebe has cups & ice covered!), foil, and ziplocks.

ALSO set the temp a degree or two cooler than usual if you're expecting a lot of people...between the hot food and additional bodies, your home will warm up quickly!

Happy hosting!

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

Who’s ready to go house hunting like a pro? 🙋🏻‍♀️☺️

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

So should you REALLY wait to buy a house 🏠? Let's chat about your REALISTIC options 👀➡️

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

Need some encouragement, future home owner?

Swipe for some affirmations for home buyers.

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE 02181549
Coldwell Banker West

Want to host Friendsgiving this time next year in your own home?

Swipe to see how I can get you there, with plenty of time to get the turkey out of the oven!

🦃🍂🪩🍷🏠🤎💃

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Coldwell Banker West




#2022

When house hunting in this market, there are 2 things you need to be most concerned with.

1) Do you love the house?
2) Can you afford the monthly payment?

Sure, there are other factors that deserve consideration, like resale and location and your loan type requirements.
But if the house suits your needs (or is everything you've been looking for) and you can comfortably afford the monthly payment, don't let the interest rate stop you from becoming a homeowner (or homeowner of your dream home)!

Put a ring on the mortgage, not the interest rate 💍

In other words, your long term commitment is the house. You can ditch your rate just like a bad date if interest rates come back down
*Disclaimer: always talk to a lender about your options*

In fact, talk to your lender about refinancing options now so you're prepared to refinance when rates drop again in the future!

Message me if you have any questions! ☺️

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Edna Mitchell Group | Century 21 Award

Hi everyone 👋🏼☺️

Let’s keep things spooky! If you're looking for a great Haunted Place in California to ruin your life this month (just kidding), here are 5 spots to checkout! Muahahaha 👻🫣

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Edna Mitchell Group | Century 21 Award

“Oh, look! Another glorious morning. Makes me sick!”

—Winifred Sanderson 🎃

If you’re feeling like this today, take some time today to spoil yourself with these self care ideas!

🎥Watch a fall movie
Turn on Hocus Pocus and get cozy!

🔥Light a fire
Host a bonfire or light your fireplace and get cozy! If you’re not feeling like a fire, but still want the vibe, light your favorite fall candle. Just don’t light the black flamed candle!

📕Read a book
I’m not currently reading a book, but if you have any good recommendations please share.

☕Drink something warm (or iced)
Make your favorite fall drink and serve it up in your most festive mug.

🧹Declutter your space
Grab your witches broom and tidy things up! Decluttering your living space has been proven to boost your self esteem and reduce stress.

🍰Bake
Pull out your recipe book and bake your favorite fall recipe. I love myself a pillsbury box cake! Lol

Good morning & Happy Friday Guys! 🤗

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Edna Mitchell Group | Century 21 Award

Boo! 👻

Fact: you don't need a magic potion to create wealth and happiness for yourself.

Research shows that homeowners not only build wealth simply by owning the home they live in, but they also feel higher levels of joy as a homeowner. 🤗

The median net worth of a homeowner is 46 times HIGHER than renters! Investing in homeownership creates an opportunity to build equity and increase wealth over time.

With rent prices increasing 3-4% each year, investing in homeownership can stabilize your housing expenses. Get a good grip on your budget before buying your home and have a stable and affordable monthly payment that won't increase.

(Interest rates scaring you? 👻 Refinance when the rates drop! You're only stuck with an interest rate if you want to be!)

As if building wealth wasn't reason enough to buy a home, the NAR (National Association of Realtors) recently reported that homeowners who remodel or update their home feel more JOY. 🤗

The renovations don't have to be costly...even a $30 gallon of paint can increase your serotonin levels! Whether you purchase a move in ready home or a fixer upper, taking the time to make your home feel more like you can make you feel happier!

So what are you waiting for? Increase your equity and happiness and DM me today!

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Edna Mitchell Group | Century 21 Award

Let’s Set the Facts Straight 😊

Every day you're building wealth for somebody. Why shouldn't it be you?

Interest rates can be scary for new buyers, but the bottom line is you're either paying your landlord or yourself when you're paying for somewhere to live.

Don't let the hype of the media covering interest rates fool you into thinking buying is not a great idea. Rates are not nearly as high as they once were and homeownership can still be one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

If you still have questions or aren't sure where to start, DM me! I'd be happy to answer your questions and help you sort out your numbers so you can decide if now is a good time for you to buy.

Zenia De Los Santos
619.635.9017
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Edna Mitchell Group | Century 21 Award

Millan is SOLD! 🙌🏼 So happy the team was able to help another family! ☺️

If you're considering buying/selling a home feel free to reach out, I'd love to help.

Call/Text 619.635.9017

Zenia De Los Santos
Realtor® | DRE #02181549
Edna Mitchell Group | Century 21 Award