Suzanne Rocha TV

Nothing is better than receiving a hand-written note!

Is losing one hour of sleep worth it? Lots of debates out there. I enjoy the lighter evenings.

Have you recently applied for a home loan? Make sure to avoid these things: don't deposit large sums of cash, don't make any large purchases, don't cosign loans, don't switch bank accounts, don't apply for new credit, don't close any accounts. At this pivotal moment in the home buying process, you’ll want to do everything possible to stay on track. If you have specific questions, reach out anytime!

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

A home library may sound like a luxury, but it doesn't have to be. With a little bit of planning, you can create a personal library on a budget. Using any area of your home as a library can show buyers the potential of your space. Whether they're looking for a cozy nook to settle down and read, or an alcove for their media console set-up, using bookcases to showcase the potential of a space is a great idea.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

If you're a homeowner, your home equity can help you achieve a lot of goals, including buying a second home, reinvesting in your current house, or pursuing personal goals, like a new business venture, retiring or paying for a degree. Not sure how much equity you currently have in your home? Reach out and I can help you start planning.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Any cook knows that the kitchen can quickly become a cluttered space. Pots and pans inevitably pile up on the counters, and small appliances often end up taking over valuable countertop real estate. One way to combat this problem is to create shelving solutions that make use of vertical space and impress future buyers.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Selling Secret: Don’t Over Improve Your Home

Certain upgrades can make a big impact on your home’s appeal. But before tackling a major remodel, view a Remodeling Costs vs. Value report (which you can find online) and talk to a real estate agent. This will help ensure you’re getting the biggest bang for your buck.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

The thought of updating your home can be exciting and overwhelming. There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing paint, furniture, and accessories. However, costs can quickly add up. Consulting with an expert beforehand can help ensure your decisions provide the best return on investment and are smart long-term choices. I'm just a message away!

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Answers to Common First-Time Home Buyer Questions: What’s the difference between a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage? A fixed-rate mortgage has an interest rate that does not change. The benefit is that you can lock in a rate that won’t increase if the market rates increase. An adjustable-rate mortgage is when your interest rate can change according to the market. A benefit is that it often has lower rates and payments early in the loan term.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

The kitchen is often considered a purely functional space, but it can also be a great place to show off some style. Artwork is a great way to add personality to a kitchen, and there are many different ways to incorporate it into the space. Enhancing your kitchen allows buyers to see the true potential it holds.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Selling Secret: Get a Pre-Listing Inspection

Finding out if there are any potential concerns before listing your house (from small to large issues) can better prepare you to sell, as well as give you peace of mind. Fixing those identified repairs ahead of time will also give potential buyers confidence in their decision when they do their own inspection. Unsure of how to start an inspection? Reach out and I’ll point you in the right direction.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

You may have heard the word "hygge" tossed around a bit in the last few years. Hygge is the feeling evoked when you think of being curled up inside a cabin deep in the woods, surrounded by candles and a crackling fireplace. When implementing hygge in your home staging, the most important thing is to be intentional about creating an environment that makes a potential buyers feel like they can sit back, relax, and enjoy the hygge life.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Selling Secret: Slow Down and Think Through the Prep

A lack of preparation is one of the most common regrets among home sellers. Once your house is listed, the count of ‘days on market’ begins. The longer it’s on the market, buyers may start to wonder if something’s wrong with the house. It’s important to take the time beforehand to prep and make your home look presentable. Thankfully, this doesn’t have to be a major overhaul, but simple things like decluttering, organizing closets and getting rid of odors. If you need help prepping, feel free to reach out anytime!

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

If you're lucky enough to have a garage, it's important to make the most of it. It needs to be functional, practical, and visually appealing. A potential buyer will take all of this into account when considering your property. Having a useful and attractive garage can make a positive impact on your selling power.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Answers to Common Questions: What is refinancing and when should I do it? Refinancing is when you replace your existing mortgage with a new one to get a lower interest rate, lower your monthly mortgage payments or take cash out. The timeline for refinancing after your original purchase depends on your loan type and other factors. If you think refinancing may be a good option for you, feel free to reach out and we can talk through next steps.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814

Plants have the power to transform a space; adding greenery to your home can create a welcoming feel. Not only do plants add visual interest, but they also improve air quality and can even boost your mood. If you're looking to appeal to potential buyers, then incorporating plants into your décor is a savvy move.

Cal Home Real Estate Services 925-858-9358 DRE #01787814