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Staging has become an essential element for maximizing the resale value of a home. Why is staging so effective?

Hi Kathy: My partner and I have decided to move to Civita in Mission Valley as many of our friends have purchased there and they have nicknamed this master-planned community “North Hillcrest.” I have always heard that the pricing of homes in gay neighborhoods increases in value. Is this just because of stereotyping or is […]

Full-service Realtor versus 1 percent commission company By Kathy McSherry | Ask Kathy Hi Kathy: I recently noticed a home for sale by a 1 percent commission company. What does 1 percent offer and how does it compare with a full-service Realtor. —Tom S.

By Kathy McSherry | Ask Kathy  Hi Kathy: I have been renting in Mission Valley for approximately three years. My fiancé and I have been saving for a 20 percent down payment this whole time and think we can afford a home of about $600,000. We are DINKS (double income no kids) and gross about […]

By Kathy McSherry | Ask Kathy  Hi Kathy: I am a first-time home buyer and 33 years old. My occupation is in the health care industry and I make $86,000 per year. I really want to stop renting and finally purchase a home but I am frustrated with it being a “seller’s market.” My best […]

By Kathy McSherry | Ask Kathy Hi Kathy: I know as a Realtor you have access to the MLS. What exactly is that and what other resources do you use when looking for properties for your buyers and keeping them informed of the latest real estate trends? Thank you. —Greg B.

By Kathy McSherry | Ask Kathy Hi Kathy: I keep hearing that there is no inventory here in San Diego and that is why prices have continued to go up. I also heard that affordability in San Diego is so high that people must spend over 45 percent of their income on housing making it […]

By Kathy McSherry | Ask Kathy Hi Kathy: When we moved to California and purchased a brand-new home, we learned that certain appliances were not included with the purchase. This was confusing to us as the practice on the East Coast is all appliances are included in the purchase of any home. When it comes time to […]

By Kathy McSherr Hello Kathy: I live in the Origen community of Civita in Mission Valley. The value of my home has gone up over $130,000 since my original purchase in 2013. Recently, home mortgage rates have been rising and indications are that they could continue to rise. Will rising interest rates slow down or […]