Karen Nelsen Real Estate

What an honor to be #306 out of 435,000 Realtors in the State of California. I am so proud and thankful for all of my clients who trust me everyday with the biggest investments of their lives. It’s because of you that I can achieve these numbers. Again, here’s to each and every one of you!💜

OPEN HOUSE!!!
Property Address: 13495 Center Avenue, San Martin
Listing Price: $1,999,999
4 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 2,660 Sq Ft | 1.08 Acre Lot
Listing Agent: Karen Nelsen | Lic. #: 00891921 | 408.461.0424
Open House Schedule:
Saturday, 4/20 & Sunday, 4/21 from 1-4pm both days.
Open House Hosts:
Leticia Arriola | Lic. #: 01718462 | 408.710.2932
Leticia Cabada | Lic. #: 01260134 | 408.234.5418

NEW LISTING & OPEN HOUSE!!!
Property Address: 2534 Shilshone Circle, San Jose
Listing Price: $1,099,999
Bed/Bath: 3 Beds, 2 Baths
Sq. Ft: 1,178 | Lot Size: 5,227 Sq Ft
Listing Agent: Karen Nelsen | Lic. Number: 00891921 | Phone #: 408.461.0424
Open House Days and Times: Saturday, 4/20, and Sunday, 4/21 from 1-4pm both days
Open House Host: Shashi Mody Lic. Number: 01779111

🎉OPEN HOUSE ALERT🎉
Property Address: 8155 Westwood Drive #8, Gilroy
Listing Price: $424,998
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 722 Sq Ft
Listing Agent: Karen Nelsen | Lic. #: 00891921 | 408.461.0424
Open House Schedule:
Saturday, 3/23 and Sunday, 3/24 from 12-3pm both days
Open House Host: Filemon Bobadilla | Lic. #: 02063345 | 408.348.8540

Strategic Tips for Buying Your First Home

Buying your first home is a big, exciting step and a major milestone that has the power to improve your life. As a first-time homebuyer, it's a dream you can make come true, but there are some hurdles you'll need to overcome in today’s housing market – specifically the limited supply of homes for sale and ongoing affordability challenges.

So, if you're ready, willing, and able to buy your first home, here are three tips to help you turn your dream into a reality.

Save Money with First-Time Homebuyer Programs...

Paying the initial costs of homeownership, like your down payment and closing costs, can feel a bit daunting. But there are many assistance programs for first-time homebuyers that can help you get a loan with little or no money upfront. According to Bankrate:
“. . . you might qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan or assistance. First-time buyer loans typically have more flexible requirements, such as a lower down payment and credit score. Many help buyers with closing costs and the down payment through grants and low-interest loans.”

To find out more, talk to your state's housing authority or check out websites like Down Payment Resource.

Expand Your Options by Looking at Condos and Townhomes...

Right now, there aren’t enough homes for sale for everyone who wants to buy one. That’s pushing home prices up and making affordability tight for buyers. One way to deal with that issue and find a home right now is to consider condos and townhomes. Realtor..com explains: “For many newbies, it might just be a matter of making a shift toward something they can better afford—like a condo or townhome. These lower-cost homes have historically been a stepping stone for buyers looking for a less expensive alternative to a single-family home.”

One reason why they may be more affordable is because they’re often smaller. But they still give you the chance to get your foot in the door and achieve your goal of owning a home and building equity. And that equity can help fuel your move into a larger home later on if you decide you need something bigger in the future. Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Analyst at Realtor.com, says:
“Condos can help prospective homebuyers who perhaps have a smaller budget, but who are really determined to get a foothold in the market and start to accumulate some equity. It can be a really great entry point.”

Consider Pooling Your Resources To Buy a Multi-Generational Home...

Another way to break into the market is by purchasing a home with friends or loved ones. That way you can split the cost of things like the mortgage and bills, to make it easier to afford a home. According to Money..com: “Buying a home with another person has some obvious advantages in the mortgage department. With two incomes in the mix, buyers can likely qualify for a larger mortgage — a big help in today’s high-cost market.”

By exploring first-time homebuyer assistance, condos, townhomes, and multi-generational living, it can be easier to find and buy your first home. When you’re ready, let’s connect.

If you're thinking of selling your house this spring, now is the perfect time to start getting it ready. With the market gearing up for its busiest time of year, it'll be important to make sure your house shines bright among the competition.
Here are some valuable tips you can use to get your house market-ready.

First impressions matter, and if your house is a mess, that can easily turn off potential buyers. Before listing, take the time to declutter and organize each room. Decluttering is about more than just tidying up – it's about creating a sense of space and openness that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in your home.

According to Moving..com: “Decluttering and organizing your space will go a long way in appealing to potential buyers. . . .decluttering will help the buyers see themselves living in your home. Less clutter inside a home also helps a place appear larger and cleaner, which should attract more buyers.”

Deep Clean Your Kitchen and Bathrooms. The kitchen and bathrooms are focal points for many buyers, and often influence their overall opinion of the house. Ensure these spaces dazzle by giving them a thorough deep cleaning. Pay attention to details like scrubbing grout lines, polishing fixtures, and decluttering countertops. A sparkling kitchen and bathroom can leave a lasting positive impression on potential buyers.

Maintain Your Yard. Your home’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers see, so it’s important to make a good impression from the moment they arrive. A well-maintained yard not only enhances curb appeal, but also shows buyers the home has been well taken care of. Take the time to spruce up your yard by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and clearing away any debris or dead plants. Remember, the goal is to create a welcoming environment that entices buyers to step inside and imagine themselves living there.
U.S. News says: “A beautifully landscaped front yard can elevate an ordinary house into a charming home and will help homes sell faster and for more money.”

A skilled listing agent is your partner in minimizing stress when selling your home. Lean on your agent for advice on decluttering, staging, and enhancing your home's appeal to potential buyers. Their insights into market trends and recommendations for reliable contractors and stagers are invaluable. As Realtor..com says:
“A good listing agent will help you price your home . . . recommend a photographer and stager to make it look its best, and put your home on the multiple listing service.”

By decluttering, deep cleaning, and tidying up your house, you can create a welcoming environment that resonates with buyers and increases your chances of a successful sale. Let’s connect on what you need to do to get your house ready to sell this spring.