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How To Sell Your Home In Different Seasons: Tips For California Homeowners

PrimeClientMarketing on September 3, 2024

How To Sell Your Home In Different Seasons: Tips For California Homeowners

There are many factors to consider when selling a home in California, from understanding how the real estate market is currently performing to figuring out whether there is a strong demand for homes like yours.

Here at Premier Property Buyers, we have over two decades of experience in the California real estate business. This means that we’re familiar with all the questions and concerns that homeowners may have when selling their homes. One question we’re often asked is when is the best time to sell a house in California? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of selling your home in each season. We’ll also share some season-specific tips and points to consider when selling your home. Keep reading to discover home selling tips for different seasons:

selling a house in different seasons in california

Selling Your California Home in Spring

Spring is the time of new beginnings, so it’s no surprise that many people decide to list their homes for sale during this season. Without a doubt, spring is one of the most popular times to sell a home. Understanding the advantages and challenges of selling in spring and adjusting your selling approach to match will bring you the best chance of a positive selling experience.

Advantages of Selling a Home in Spring

  • Lots of buyers start their search for a new home in spring, so there’s increased demand for properties.
  • Your home will likely be looking good in spring, with your yard starting to bloom, helping to provide some all-important curb appeal to attract potential buyers.
  • Increased demand for homes means that properties sold in spring typically command higher selling prices.

Challenges of Selling a Home in Spring

  • More competition from other sellers as more homeowners list their properties.

Selling Your Home in the California Summer

The summer is a hugely popular time to list a house for sale. It’s a season where people have more time on their hands and are thinking ahead to the new academic year and getting their kids places at good schools, which is good news if you’re selling a family home.

Benefits of Selling a Home in Summer

  • A larger number of buyers means there will be more interest in your home.
  • Selling prices can increase by an impressive amount at this time of year. Data shows that home sales peak in June, and this is the month when sellers can achieve the highest prices for their homes.
  • It’s easier to make your home look appealing to potential buyers in summer, as there will be less maintenance needed when preparing it for buyers to view.
  • Buyers may be keen to finalize the sale fast so that they can move in before the start of the new school year and get their family settled.

Drawbacks of Selling a Home in Summer

  • There will be increased competition from other sellers, with more homes listed for sale. So, it may be harder to get your home noticed by potential buyers.
  • If buyers are taking summer vacations, there could be delays in the negotiation and purchase process.

Selling Your Home in the Fall in California

Seasonal real estate market analysis shows that the fall is one of the slowest seasons for selling a home. However, pricing the property competitively could lead to a faster sale.

Pros of Selling a Home in the Fall

  • Fewer houses are listed for sale, meaning your property is more likely to attract the attention of buyers.
  • Listing your home for sale in the fall could help you to sell and move before the winter arrives.

Cons of Selling a Home in the Fall

  • Far less buyers are out there, so there may be far less interest in your home.
  • It will likely take longer to sell your home in the fall as there are fewer potential buyers.
  • Selling prices are lower due to a lack of demand from buyers.
selling a house in the fall in southern california

Selling Your California Home in Winter

Real estate seasonal trends suggest that selling your home in winter is rarely a good idea if you want to attract lots of buyers. Let’s take a look at the positive and negative aspects of listing your home in winter:

Positives of Selling a Home in Winter

  • Less competition, as fewer homeowners list their homes for sale in the winter.
  • While there are fewer buyers in general, the winter period brings more serious, motivated buyers who are ready to commit to purchasing a home.

Negatives of Selling a Home in Winter

  • Homes take longer to sell in the winter, with figures showing that selling homes takes longer from November through March with January and February taking the longest amount of time.
  • Harsher weather conditions mean that your property is more likely to be damaged during winter. Selling a house with water damage in California or storm damage can impact both its appeal to buyers and its selling price.
  • Selling prices are lower in winter as there are fewer buyers.

Why Choose Premier Property Buyers for a Quick Sale?

Typically, it takes 42 days to sell a single-family home in California. This means that from the moment your house listing is published, you can expect to wait around six weeks until you find a buyer for your home. During seasons when the real estate market slows down, you can expect to wait even longer than this to sell your home.

When you need a quick home sale in California, six weeks is a long time to wait. The good news is that there is an alternative solution. Here at Premier Property Buyers, we will buy your home fast regardless of the season. So, it’s easy to see why cash offers are the preferred option for Southern California sellers.

Here are just some of the reasons that people who want to sell my home fast in California choose Premier Property Buyers:

  • We are cash home buyers California residents can depend on to give them the fairest price for their properties.
  • We offer a fast buying process and are happy to complete on a day of your choice. So if you’re looking for someone to sell my home fast in Los Angeles, California, we’ll be happy to help.
  • Our service is completely confidential and we won’t pressure you with hard-selling techniques. Instead, we pride ourselves on being fair and honest.
  • We purchase homes across Southern California regardless of their location or condition.
  • We provide a highly professional service, and are fully-licensed to carry out real estate work in California.
  • With over 20 years of experience, we have an excellent understanding of the California real estate market.
  • At Premier Property Buyers, we are a family-owned and operated business that you can trust, and are committed to following family values.
  • We are happy to buy houses that may raise issues in a traditional real estate sale, such as vendors trying to sell an inherited house without a will in California.

Tips for Homeowners in the Current Climate

Right now, the California real estate market is seeing a surge in homeowners putting their homes up for sale. This sharp increase in listed properties means that buyers have a huge selection of properties to choose from. At the same time, house prices in Southern California have reached an all-time high. Figures for June 2024 show that home prices in Southern California rose by 8% on last year’s figures for the same month.

While there may be most properties for sale and prices are becoming higher, this isn’t necessarily good news for sellers. High interest rates mean that buyers may be less willing to take out larger home loans to cover the cost of buying a house in California. With this in mind, here are some home selling tips in California to help you navigate the current climate successfully:

  • Pay attention to seasonal trends in the California property market, and if possible list your home in the spring or summer.
  • Be realistic about the selling price you can achieve for your home, and research the market to see how much similar properties are selling for.
  • Consider selling your property to a reputable cash buyer if you want to achieve a fair price and a fast sell.
  • If selling your home in the fall or winter, be sure to present it well and carry out seasonal maintenance tasks to help it look more appealing.
getting a cash offer for a house in california

Conclusion

Selling a home is often considered one of the most stressful things a person can do. So, finding ways to make the process as hassle-free as possible is a huge advantage. Selling your home fast and for the best price is always the goal, but this can be impacted in many ways, including the season in which you list your home.

Summer and spring are always popular times for buying and selling homes. These seasons bring a higher demand for homes from buyers, which drives up the selling price. While during fall and winter, the real estate market is often quieter, with fewer buyers to choose from, meaning that houses stay on the market for longer and achieve lower prices.

Waiting for the best month to sell your home isn’t always an option. Often, people want to move fast and avoid waiting for months for the right buyer to come along. At Premier Property Buyers, we offer the ideal solution for homeowners who want a fast, hassle-free sale, without needing to repair their home first. We’ll offer a fair price for your house, regardless of its condition or location.

If you’re looking to sell your home fast and for the fairest price, we can help! Contact us today for a cash offer on your home from a trusted California home buyer.

How Current Market Trends Affect Home Sales in California

PrimeClientMarketing on August 26, 2024

How Current Market Trends Affect Home Sales in California

Selling a home in California may not always be as fast or stress-free as you might expect it to be. The problem is that what most people think about is how everyone loves sunny California, but not how changeable the real estate market can be, and how it can impact selling a property. Indeed, even as desirable as living in California is, it can be challenging for homeowners trying to sell their properties due to the level of time, stress, and cost involved.

The good news is that even in a changeable market like we are seeing at the moment in California, there are always strategies you can use to help speed up the sale of your home. One option in particular is to work with cash home buyers in California like Premier Property Buyers who can buy your home for a great price, quickly in three simple steps. Working with California locals Premier Property Buyers means working with people who are not only transparent and trustworthy but that have an intimate understanding of the current real estate market, something that allows them to ensure you get the best deal for your home.

To find out more about the current California housing market, how it impacts those trying to sell their home, how you can speed up the process of selling your Californian home, and how Premier Property Buyers can help with this just keep reading.

housing market trends in california affect fast home sales

Overview of Current Market Trends in California Real Estate

Over the last few years, the California real estate market has been fairly changeable. Indeed, there are several real estate trends in 2024 that are significantly impacting the property market in California. Below you can find each one explained in detail.

1. Median Home Price Trends Are Rising

Real estate market analysis shows that median home prices are rising in California right now. The California Association of Realtors estimates that the median price will be around $859,800 or more in 2024.

2. Housing Supply Shortages

Another trend in California real estate in 2024 is that more people want to buy a house in the area than there are houses to buy, partly due to an influx of people from out of state.

3. Property Taxes Are Rising

In addition to median property prices rising, property taxes are also on the up in California. Indeed, from 2019 to 2023 property taxes in California rose a whopping 26%!

How Market Trends Affect Home Sales

The trends above impact home sales in California in several ways:

Median Home Price Trends Are Rising

The impact of rising median home price trends in California is that it continues to be a desired state in which to live, and so homes will continue to be in demand. This is good news for those selling their homes as there continues to be a high need for them.

However, high median home prices could also mean that some people will struggle to buy homes as they get priced out of the market. This combined with high interest rates can further compound the problem.

Housing Supply Shortages

What this means is that there are not enough properties to fulfill the current need for California’s growing population, and housing supply shortages are common right now. The knock-on effect of this is that once again house prices rise because sellers can afford to ask more for their properties. This means right now California has become a seller’s market.

However, it is worth noting that as political, economic, and social changes occur, they further impact the shifts happening in the California real estate market. What this means is that while it is something of a seller’s market right now, there are no guarantees that it will continue to be this way in the future. Indeed, if sellers are looking to take advantage of the current real estate situation in California, and because selling a property can take an extended amount of time when a chain is involved, it’s likely that they will benefit from acting quickly before the market has time to change and become less favorable.

Property Taxes Are Rising

With property taxes rising in California, it can mean that some are struggling to stay in their properties because of the rise in living costs. After all, more tax is more to pay out and when you combine this with the rising prices of food and gas it may encourage some owners to downsize and/or move to less desirable areas to cut these costs.

However, it is worth noting that how a property tax value is assessed is not the same process as the way a market value is established. Indeed, the values can be up to 20% different which can impact a homeowner’s choice to sell or stay. Find out more about how Market Value in California vs Assessed Value works by reading our informative post on the subject.

property taxes going up causing homeowners to sell their houses quickly in california

Selling Quickly in a Changing Market

For those lucky homeowners who are looking to sell right now and cash out before the market changes to a less favorable position, some effective strategies can help them expedite the process of selling their homes.

Invest In A Professional Photographer

The first of these strategies is to invest in a professional photographer to take the pictures that will be on your real estate agent’s site. Yes, I know we all have cameras in our pockets but people do this for a living for a reason. That reason is they can capture your home in the very best possible light, highlighting unique features that will make it even more desirable to potential buyers. Remember it’s the photos of your property that get people through the door to take a look in real life so it’s well worth choosing a photographer that is experienced in taking pictures for residential real estate.

Set The Price Right

The market in California can be both changeable and competitive, and what this means is that you must set your asking price at the right figure. Too high and you will eliminate potential buyers as it will be out of their price range, whereas too low means you won’t be able to maximize the profits you make from the current seller’s market.

Boost Your Property’s Curb Appeal

If you are looking for a quick home sale in California, another very effective tactic is to focus on curb appeal. This is because the first time a potential buyer sees your property they form an opinion about it, and you want this to be as positive as possible. Especially in California where outside living is commonplace.

With that in mind, there are a few tweaks you can make that will instantly make over the outside of your home. The first is to get a new front door, or at least paint the old one so it looks fresh and well-kept. Secondly, do not forget that an overgrown jungle of a yard will always put off potential buyers, so be sure to have your lawn mown, bushes trimmed and some flowers in bloom (pots are fine) before anyone comes to look around.

Depersonalize Your Property

Personal clutter and items can severely impact the ability of potential buyers to imagine themselves and their families living in your property. The bad news is it’s this imagining that you want to encourage. Happily, you can do things to help those looking around your property envision their lives there including removing all personal photos and ornaments, making sure that all surfaces and floors are clear of clutter, and deep cleaning your home before you show them around.

Sell To A Cash Buyer

You can also significantly increase the speed at which you can sell your home by choosing to sell to a cash buyer. When you choose to sell to a cash buyer you can skip a great deal of the hassle and time it takes to sell a home.

In particular, cash buyers often do not require an appraisal and will buy your home in any condition which means you won’t need to fund or spend time doing any repairs before you sell. Oh, and if you are wondering What Repairs are Required for an Appraisal?, just check out our detailed post on the subject to see whether a cash buyer would be a better option for you.

Why Choose Premier Property Buyers

Now that you know that you can speed up the process of selling your home, and cut a great deal of the hassle involved in the process by using a cash buyer, you are probably wondering which cash-buying company to work with. Well, there are plenty of compelling reasons to use Premier Property Buyers for your home cash-buying transaction including:

Premier Property Buyers Always Offer A Fair Price

The first of these is that here at Premier Property Buyers we pride ourselves on always offering a fair price based on market value comparison and condition to those looking to sell their home.

We also save you huge amounts of money in terms of agent fees, and if that wasn’t enough make the long tedious process of selling your home, fast and easy as well! There is no appraisal, listings, or repair needed when you choose us!

Premier Property Buyers Is A Local Family Run Business With A Personal Touch

The next reason to choose Premier Property Buyers is that you are never just a number to us because we value the personal touch with all our customers. That means you’ll deal with Eric and Jackie, southern California locals when you communicate, not some faceless drone from a corporation.

We’ll be here every step of the way to answer all your questions, let you know where we are in the process, and find you a home-selling solution that matches your specific needs if you choose not to proceed, then there’s no hard feelings. We understand that selling a home can be hard, and you need to feel comfortable with every aspect before you sign on the dotted line.

Indeed, here at Premier Property Buyers, we pride ourselves on the importance of knowing the California market so much that we wrote a whole article on it called Why Local Home Buyers Understand the Californian Real Estate Market Best. As locals, when you sell to us you can be confident that we understand the latest market trends and challenges and can help you through them to a quick and easy sale.

Premier Property Buyers Have a Great Reputation

Last of all, choose Premier Property Buyers because we have an outstanding reputation in the real estate business and we pride ourselves on always performing as promised. We hold ourselves to the highest standard ensuring that we are always 100% honest and transparent throughout the process.

Here at Premier Property Buyers, you’ll also find that we differ from other cash-buying companies because we never pressure you to sell. Instead, we’ll give you some time and space to review our offer, compare it with others and truly decide whether it’s the best option for you and your family.

selling a house fast for cash to premier property buyers when market conditions are changing

Tips for Homeowners in the Current Market

If you are looking for home selling tips in California then be sure to remember:

Right now in 2024, it’s a seller’s market! But this can change quickly, so if you want to maximize your profits consider selling soon.

If you are wondering to yourself ‘How do I sell my house fast in California’ use the following tips to speed up the sale of your property and ensure you benefit from the maximum amount of profit as a seller:

  • Getting professional photos taken
  • Setting the right price
  • Improving your property’s curb appeal
  • Depersonalize your property
  • Work with a cash buyer

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s a great time to sell any Californian residential properties because the market is strong and the demand for houses exceeds the number of residences available. However, the market in California is changeable, so sellers cannot rely on the fact that things will stay this way forever.

The good news is that if you want to capitalize on this seller’s market in California you can sell your home quickly by using a variety of strategies. In particular, working with Premier Property Buyers can ensure a fast, hassle-free sale without the need for repairs, the hassle of listings, and the time of getting an appraisal. While at the same time getting the fair market value of your home.

If the question of how to sell my house fast in Long Beach, California, or the surrounding areas is on your mind, contact Premier Property Buyers at (714) 475-7526 to see how we can make your property selling process fast, and easy.

The Benefits of A Pre-Listing Inspection

PrimeClientMarketing on June 30, 2024

The Benefits of A Pre-Listing Inspection in California

If you’re looking for a beautiful, vibrant, and financially sensible place to live, California is sure to be on your list – perhaps even at the top – as it certainly ticks all those boxes. That’s great for sellers as they’re going to have the upper hand, but only if their property is priced well, is suitable to live in, and stands out from the crowd (and it’s a big old crowd).

One great way to ensure you’re able to stand out when you want to sell a property in California is to have a pre-listing home inspection carried out. Let’s take a better look at what that is and why it’s a good idea when you want to sell your home (and why it’s something you should be looking for when you want to buy one).

Home inspector assessing structural elements of a house

What Is A Pre-Listing Home Inspection?

A pre-listing home inspection is an assessment conducted by a professional inspector before a home is put on the market to sell, and the goal behind the inspection is to uncover any potential issues that might cause a problem when it comes to actually selling the house.

You might wonder why it’s so important when you can have buyer-initiated inspections carried out once the offer has been made and negotiations are underway, and it’s a great question, but there’s a great answer as well. The fact is that, unlike those inspections, a pre-listing home inspection gives sellers a deeper understanding of the property’s condition before any kind of offer is made, so they can be absolutely sure they’re making the right choice and offering the right price. Plus it helps sellers because they’ll know what needs to be done to ensure a sale, and they can make repairs and changes before potential buyers get to see the house.

What A Pre-Lisitng Insepction Typically Covers

A pre-listing home inspection covers a broad range of aspects in a house, including:

Structural elements

This includes the foundations, walls, and roof, and anything else linked to the structure of the building. Inspectors will look for signs of structural damage, like cracks or roofing problems. 

Electrical systems

Electrics are a big part of the safety and comfort of a home, so it makes sense they should be inspected. The inspection will involve checking the wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers, for example, to ensure they meet the right safety standards and that they’re actually working as they should.

Plumbing

After the electrics, the plumbing is probably the most important element of a home to get right – water damage is no joke. The inspector will check the pipes, fixtures, and water heaters or boilers for leaks and corrosion and make sure they’re properly installed. 

HVAC systems

In California, a good HVAC system is essential, so these will also be included in the home inspection before selling. 

Roof

Who wants a hole in their roof? No one, so the roof will also be included in the inspection, from both the outside and inside your home.

electrical systems inspection during a pre-listing home inspection

Advantages of Pre-Listing Inspections for Sellers

So exactly what are the advantages for sellers when it comes to a pre-listing home inspection? There are a number of great reasons to get this inspection organized sooner rather than later, and here are some of them.

 

Identifying Issues Early

One of the best reasons for having a pre-listing home inspection is that you’ll be able to spot any problems early on in the process rather than much later. By identifying problems before you even list the property, you can address them proactively before a seller even has a chance to know about them in most cases, saving you time and money in the long run.

Some of the most common issues found during inspections include leaking roofs, faulty wiring, plumbing leaks, and even structural damage. Some of these are easy (and relatively inexpensive) fixes, so they can be done right away (ideally by a professional – you can then provide proof that the work was not only carried out, but carried out the right way), and some are more extensive issues that you’ll need to think about – is it better to get the work done yourself or lower the selling price of your home so the buyer can do the work, for example? Knowing the information in advance is just one of the many seller inspection advantages you’ll get when you arrange a pre-listing home inspection, and it can make a big difference to how the sale progresses (if it happens at all).

Enhancing Buyer Confidence

Another benefit of a pre-listing home report is that it can boost buyer confidence in your property, and in you as a seller – when a potential buyer sees that a home has been completely checked out and inspected, and that it’s well-maintained, they’ll have a lot more trust about it and they’ll be reassured that the property is in good condition (or they’ll be aware of the issues in advance and can have a plan in place to tackle them). If you can offer proof of all this via a professional inspection, you’ll have a much better chance of attracting serious buyers who’ll make serious offers, allowing you to sell your home and move on in the way you want to. This is really one of the best pre-listing home inspection benefits you can enjoy, and it can make the entire selling process a much smoother and quicker one, which is always a positive.

Setting a Realistic Price

Once you’ve got the inspection results and you’ve gone through them thoroughly, you’ll be able to set a realistic price for your property, taking anything that needs to be done into account. By understanding what the true condition of your property is – something you might not have even thought about while you were living there – you can avoid overpricing (which will definitely deter potential buyers, especially if other similar houses are priced more competitively) or underpricing (that’s just as bad as you’ll lose money without even trying).

On top of this, if you’ve got a clear picture of the property’s ultimate condition, it will help when it comes to negotiations and it should ensure you don’t have to deal with any last-minute price drops from the buyer who suddenly notices an issue – they’ll know about everything in advance, so that shouldn’t happen.

Streamlining the Selling Process

Pre-listing inspections can also reduce the risk of the deal falling through entirely, which is certainly something you’ll want to avoid at all costs. When buyers carry out their own inspections and uncover unexpected issues, it can lead to them offering a lower price or pulling out of the sale entirely if the problem isn’t one they’re willing to tackle. If you can address the problems upfront, you’ll minimize the risk of that happening, and streamline the selling process as a result.

As a bonus, this generally also means your home will be on the market for less time. Remember, the longer your property is for sale, the less interest there’s going to be because more and more properties will be listed and yours can get lost. The quicker you sell, the easier it is, and the more money you’ll make in most cases.

Improving Marketability

Marketing your home is a big job and a crucial one – you can’t just list the place for sale and hope people will come and look at it. That’s why working with a professional real estate agent is such a good idea as they’ll have the means and the knowledge to market your home properly and to the right people, speeding up the chances of finding a good buyer for you.

Something that’s going to help your real estate agent market and then sell your property is having a pre-listing inspection report ready to show any potential buyers. Buyers are going to appreciate the fact that you’ve had the work done, and they’ll like the fact that they can see precisely what condition the property is in before they consider whether or not to make an offer – and what offer to make, come to that.

By using California home inspection tips, sellers are able to make their property a lot more appealing and increase the chances of a fast, hassle-free sale.

Beautiful homes in California and benefits of a pre-listing inspection

Advantages of Pre-Listing Inspections For Buyers

Of course, sellers aren’t the only ones who are going to get the benefits from a pre-listing home inspection report – buyers will too.

Peace of Mind

For buyers, a pre-listing home inspection report gives them complete peace of mind, no matter what the results might be. Yes, it would be ideal if the property got a clean bill of health, but even if there are issues thrown up by the report, knowing about them means the buyer can still feel confident about making an offer – there won’t be any surprises to come across after they move in.

Transparency

Another advantage for buyers is that the pre-listing home inspection gives them a true and clear understanding of the home’s condition before, rather than after, they make an offer. This transparency can ensure decision-making is easier and more positive, and buyers can be fully aware of exactly what they’re getting into when they’re buying a property.

The fact is that buying a house isn’t always the easiest or most stress-free situation to be in, and some of that stress and worry can come from the fact that you might not be sure you’re making the right decision – you can love a house and want to live there, but is it really something that’s going to work for you? It’s a lot of money to spend on something that turns out to be a mistake, after all. A thorough inspection before you make an offer is ideal, as you can know everything you need to know and be so much happier with your choice.

Reduced Surprises

When there are fewer unexpected issues post-purchase, buyers can feel more secure in their investment, and that’s something a pre-listing inspection can offer. With one of these in place, there’ll be much less chance (or even no chance at all in most cases) of uncovering something after you move in.

Finding significant problems after you’ve bought a property and have started living there is never pleasant, and not only will it be disheartening, but it could be costly and disruptive too – not ideal when you’ve already spent a lot of money moving in the first place and you just want to settle into your new place.

By providing a comprehensive overview of the property’s condition, real estate pre-listing inspections help buyers feel better about the property and sure that there’s nothing nasty lurking in their new home.

Cost and Logistics of Pre-Listing Inspections

In California, the cost of a pre-listing inspection is going to fall somewhere between $300 and $450 approximately – it’s going to depend on the size of the property as well as how old it is as to the exact cost, but you can start to budget using the figures above.

Although you might look at this as an extra expense you could do without when you’re selling your home, the benefits definitely outweigh the cost, especially as having a pre-listing inspection report can mean you can sell for a higher profit (or at the very least not have to worry about low offers).

The best thing to do if you want to have a pre-listing report carried out is to work with professionals and find a qualified and reputable inspector to do it for you. In that way, you’ll know for sure that nothing has been missed, and any buyer who might be interested in your property can see that you’re taking the sale seriously and they’ll get all the information they need to make a decision.

Preparing for the Inspection

Before the inspection takes place, you’ll need to prepare your home to make it easier for the inspector and to get a glowing report if possible. Make sure that everywhere – including the attic, basement, and any outbuildings – is accessible and clear any clutter away. If you can prepare your home, you’ll be able to help the inspector do their job more efficiently and accurately.

Addressing and Disclosing Inspection Findings

Once you have the report, go through it carefully and decide which issues you can fix before you list the property – the ones you don’t fix will need to be disclosed to the potential buyer, so this is an important decision. It’s often best to deal with the larger issues and leave the smaller ones (unless you can do them all, of course), as that’s a good way to gain trust with the buyer, plus they won’t have to lower their offer too much if they only have to tackle small tasks once they move in.

As we said, any issues that aren’t fixed need to be disclosed – in California, it’s the law. Making sure any potential buyer is aware of the issues means there’s less chance of a legal problem further down the line, and it makes pulling out of the deal by the buyer a lot less likely.

Preparing a home for a pre-listing inspection in California

Conclusion

In the end, a pre-listing home inspection offers plenty of benefits to both buyer and seller, including early detection of issues and more informed decision-making. If you’re looking to sell your home, organizing this kind of beneficial report is crucial – it can make a huge difference to the outcome of any sale (and even ensure the sale goes ahead in the first place).

For professional advice and assistance with your pre-listing inspection report, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Premier Property Buyers. Our expertise in getting homes ready for the sales market is unparalleled, and you can trust us to help you through the process from start to finish.

Additional Resources

For more information, please follow these links:

How To Sell A House in a Trust in California: A Complete Guide

PrimeClientMarketing on May 20, 2024

How To Sell A House in a Trust in California: A Complete Guide

Putting real estate in a trust can deliver many advantages for grantors and beneficiaries alike, not least from a tax perspective. However, selling a house in a trust in California can be quite challenging, especially if you’ve never encountered the process before.

Before selling a house in a trust in California, you must acknowledge the unique aspects of California law that affect the process and establish a clear strategy to enjoy a streamlined process that delivers the best outcomes for all parties. This guide on how to sell a house in a trust will help you understand the legal considerations surrounding the closing process and teach you how to handle the selling process in style.

a house being sold in a trust in california

Understanding Trusts and Real Estate in California

Before looking at how to sell properties held in California trusts, you must first understand the trusts in real estate fundamentals. 

In essence, a trust property is an asset that has been placed into a trust. It is affected by fiduciary duty and will be managed by the named trustees following the grantor’s death. Trustees will be tasked with managing assets as per the grantor’s wishes which are detailed in the trust’s legal documents. 

There are many reasons why people use a trust in real estate management aspects of their tax planning procedures. For starters, the grantor retains control of their estate until their death by making themself a trustee. More importantly, a trust agreement is the perfect financial tool to distribute proceeds efficiently to the intended beneficiaries.

In other words, the trust provisions protect beneficiaries and prevent potential disputes. Furthermore, it can help the family reduce various tax obligations including both inheritance tax and capital gains tax, as well as potential state taxes when selling a home in California. With many trust types, it also means avoiding probate court and the related financial impacts.  This ultimately serves the best interests of the grantor, trustees, and beneficiaries. 

While only 33% of Americans have suitable estate planning in place, California trusts may cover various types. The most frequently used solutions are;

  • Revocable trust – in a revocable trust, the trust creator retains legal ownership of all assets. This does have tax implications throughout their life, as well as for beneficiaries, but the grantor is able to change the terms of the agreement. For example, they could name a new grandchild as a future beneficiary.

  • Irrevocable trust – in this type of trust agreement, legal ownership of assets is passed to the trustees. Thai reduces the taxable portion of the person’s estate, which leads to tax benefits. However, irrevocable trusts cannot be altered, meaning beneficiaries can’t be added or removed. 

  • Living trust – in a living trust, assets may be transferred during the trust creator’s lifetime. This allows for careful asset management that can be used to support beneficiaries through ideas like paying for their college education without giving them control of the assets or income generated from them.

  • Testamentary trust – in this type of trust, assets are distributed as per the instructions held within the grantor’s last will and testament. In this case, the trust is not established until after the grantor’s death while it also does not avoid probate court in the way that the above trusts do. 

It should also be noted that when a minor is named as a beneficiary, the trust will hold assets (or the proceeds from them) until they turn 18. 

guide to selling your hosue in a trust

Step-by-Step Guide to Selling Your House in a Trust in California

While the benefits of putting a property in a trust are clear, selling real estate in a trust can be a little testing. Therefore, careful planning is required to sell assets efficiently and promote a smooth closing process that allows your family to enjoy the tax advantages and full proceeds of the sale. 

If you want to sell an inherited property in a trust or just need to sell a property in a trust you didn’t create, there are options.  The process of selling a house in a trust may seem daunting, but the following steps should lead you to a successful sale.

Gain trustee approval

Trustee approval will make the process of selling trust property far less stressful as it’ll help you avoid disputes and delays caused by miscommunication. While single trustees are possible, most trusts name multiple people. If you have three or more people, ensuring that all parties are on the same page should be the first item on your checklist.

It is an emotionally charged time in which past disputes between relatives could make this process difficult. However, Premier Property Buyers can help by facilitating clear communication by all parties. Arranging a consultation to discuss everything from fiduciary duties to estate taxes and the options for selling a house should lead to an agreement. When all trustees feel suitably informed and prepared for the process ahead, things should fall into place.

Understand different trust implications

As well as gaining the necessary approvals from each trustee, you must consider how trust home sales are impacted by the type of trust that the asset is placed in:

Revocable trust

As the grantor retains control, another trustee cannot sell the property until after the grantor passes. When selling a property in this manner, the trustee or trustees must satisfy the grantor’s intentions as per the latest version of the trust document.

Irrevocable trust

The terms of how funds should be distributed are already finalized. This may even set out the method of how the trust property should be sold, although not always. Crucially, the payouts to beneficiaries are predetermined. 

Testamentary trust

The trust provisions will set out the conditions, such as all beneficiaries (or guardians of minors) having to agree on a sale. As long as a trustee approval agreement is made, home sales can occur in any method. 

Prepare the home for sale

Preparing for trust sales of real estate assets may look a little different depending on which route you take. In either scenario, though, you will have to obtain the necessary legal documents. The relevant info when selling trust property in California is detailed below. 

When opting for real estate agents, you will need to consider the necessary repairs before it can be listed on the property market. If the repairs are significant, it may be better to look at the prospect of a cash sale. Aside from saving time and hassle, this is often the best option from a financial perspective in this situation.

Contact a real estate agent or experts

When selling real estate in a trust, you will also need to call an expert. A real estate agent will help with marketing the property if this route is taken. However, you can also sell trust property assets through a cash home buyer service, who can also take care of issues like using the right escrow company. While 350,000+ properties are sold in California from Long Beach to Anaheim annually, the direct route is often preferred in this situation. 


California requires careful planning, especially when you want to sell property effectively while serving the best interests of all relevant parties. Whichever route you take, it’s important to contact a team that will offer a professional appraisal and a transparent service.

legal way to sell a house in a trust in CA

Legal Requirements for Selling a Trust Property in California

The legal requirements for selling a trust property demand a lot of attention, especially as you will be inexperienced in this type of sale. You must ensure compliance with California’s legal authority if you want the sale to be finalized and beneficiaries to receive their sale proceeds. 

In California, the following legal documentation and compliance requirements must be addressed depending on the sale process used:

Selling With the Trustee

The legal requirements for selling a trust property are easier with a trustee than without. The property is sold to a third party with the funds being added to the overall trust, which can then be distributed as per the specific instructions of the trust document.

Most courts allow trustees to sell properties unless the trust states that the asset should not be sold. When selling with the trustee, you will need;

  • The trust document to confirm that you have the right to sell the property. A trust certification in California can also be handed to a third party who works in good faith that trustees are operating as per the trust agreement. 

  • The trust certification in California, signed by a trust attorney.

  • A California deed of trust, which is essentially the mortgage that must be cleared with the sales proceeds.

  • The grantor’s death certificate.

  • The trustee’s tax ID number.

As well as verified documents, you will need to work with an expert capable of providing professional guidance in reaching an agreement for all parties. The sale proceeds will then be added to the trust funds, which are distributed as per the trust instructions.

Selling Without the Trustee

Although a little complicated, selling without the trustee is an option available for California trust real estate sales, especially if the asset is intended for a single beneficiary. In this instance, you will need;

The trust documents to confirm that the legal title can be transferred.

Agreement from the trust, in writing.

A deed form from the trustee, which will then be filed to officially transfer the title.

Once this has been finalized, the beneficiary will be free to sell the asset with a real estate agent or direct cash home buyer. They can subsequently use the funds as desired, either for themselves or shared with others.

solutions for selling a house inherited in a trust

Challenges and Solutions When Selling

Many sellers experience challenges selling a house in a trust, and not only because of the legal challenges mentioned above. Here are some of the most common problems when selling a house in California that is a trust asset:

Beneficiary disagreements

Beneficiary disagreements are most likely with a testamentary trust but you could experience these or trustee disagreements at other times. Having an impartial agent speak with all parties to lay out the possible solutions should allow everyone to find their way back to the same page. 

Property valuation disagreements

Disputes on the property value are another potential issue, especially as potential buyers often want to negotiate offers through their real estate agent. A professional appraisal and valuation service allows you to determine the value. A quick house sale will give you a fair price based on this while also helping you avoid fees like marketing. 

Legal document issues

As stated above, it is imperative that you have all documents ranging from a death certificate to trust certification. Given the emotions and stress experienced at this time, mistakes can easily happen. Working closely with an experienced team who can use their experience and remove the emotional attachment is advised. 

Delays

Delays in property sales aren’t limited to selling a house in a trust. Potential buyers may be waiting on the sale of their properties. Similarly, California Civil Code 1102 means you have to disclose potential issues with the property while any repairs or curb appeal updates could hold you back further. A quick sale within seven days will remove those problems.

showing the easiest way to sell a house in a trust

Conclusion: Selling Trust Property with Premier Property Buyers

Selling property in a trust in California is a process that requires professional guidance if you wish to enjoy a streamlined process. From checking the necessary documentation to factoring in any special considerations, there are several steps involved as you look to achieve the best result for the named trust beneficiaries while simultaneously respecting the dearly departed’s wishes. 

However, you’ll also want a convenient process with a fair sales price. Frankly, selling property without the need for a real estate agent is the preferred solution as it allows you to draw a line under the process without waiting months for a sale or using open houses in an attempt to sell your house in a trust quickly.

For a better solution, it’s best to work closely with a local cash buyer like Premier Property Buyers. You are guaranteed a quick and convenient sale at a fair price while our experienced professionals can help you navigate the legal minefield of selling property in trust agreements. Crucially, our local knowledge of California law will serve your best interest whether the asset is in Anaheim, Long Beach, Hollywood Hills, or any other part of Southern California.

For a free no-obligation offer and a stress-free sale process, contact Premier Property Buyers now. Your trust property could be sold within 7 days!

Property Tax Assessed Value vs Market Value Difference Explained

PrimeClientMarketing on May 13, 2024

Property Tax Assessed Value vs Market Value: The Difference Explained

Indeed, your property’s tax-assessed value is likely to be higher than the market value for reasons that will be explained in detail below. To find out more about this disparity, how it can impact your financial well-being, and how you can gain a more accurate valuation read on.

Appraised value vs market value in california

What Is The Difference Between Market Value In California And Assessed Value?

In California, as in other states, the market value of your property is not the same as the assessed value.

This is because the assessed value is a figure set by local California county government tax assessor-collectors to calculate property tax. However, the market value of your property is based on a range of different factors such as the demand for properties like yours in your specific Californian location, current interest rates in California, and the state of the property market and economy overall.

The Assessed Value Of A Property

The purpose of the assessed value of your property is to make sure you are paying a fair tax rate compared to others in your location. It is separate from the market value of your property in that it is used solely for this purpose.

However, in states such as California, there can be a link between the assessed value and market value in that they take the purchase price and then add 2% each year.

The assessed value of your property is based on aspects such as where it is located, how good a condition it’s in, and what other comparable properties are selling for in your area.

The major issue with the assessed value that many property owners find is that it’s in the government’s interest to inflate it as much as possible. The reason for this is that with higher assessed values, governments can charge inflated property taxes and generate more revenue.

Sadly, this can cause some distinct problems for the homeowner including issues such as:

  • Leading them to sell their property at the wrong time
  • Leading them to overprice their home – which can result in more sales taxes as well as slower sales
  • Disappointment when it comes to market valuation amount

The good news is that if you are looking for a fast, fair offer on your California property with minimal costs, working with a property buying service can help. Find out more about property buying services in California here.

The Market Value Of A Property

The market value of a property represents how much a buyer is prepared to pay to buy it. Having an accurate idea about the market value of your property is crucial because it allows you to make savvy financial decisions. For example, if you know that the market value of your property is high, you may consider selling and making a good profit. In contrast, if you notice your market value is lower than other properties in your area, you could consider adding improvements to raise it and provide a better return on your investment.

Elements that are integral to establishing your property’s market value include how healthy the economy is overall, how in-demand your type and condition of the property are, and what the current interest rates are like.

Why Is Knowing The Difference Between Market Value And Assessed Value Important?

Understanding these differences is vitally important for the property owner because if they base their financial decision on the wrong value, they can end up losing a significant amount of money.

For example, if you use your market value to predict the amount of property tax you will owe, you may budget less than you will need. Similarly, if you use your tax-assessed property value to estimate how much to sell your home for, you may end up pricing it too high and miss out on valuable viewings and sales. Indeed, market value and assessed value can be closely linked with the latter actually impacting the former. This is because high assessed values may lead property owners to price their homes high and so drive down interest and market value. negatively impacting the true value of their home.

How To Find Out The Market Value Of Your Property?

While knowing the factors on which the market value of your property is based is useful, you cannot accurately estimate on your own. Instead, you will usually need to work with a licensed real estate professional.

how to find the market value of your california property

The Purpose Of Tax-Assessed Value vs Market Value

The two property values are different not only because they are used for different purposes. The assessed value of a property is used to establish the amount the owner owes in property taxes. Whereas the market value is used as guidance for how much the owner should set as the selling price, as well as the amount they could get if they refinanced.

Indeed, assessed value and market value are not the same things. But they can impact each other. That is why it’s so crucial that any property owner has an understanding of both and what they mean.

Criteria for Market Value vs Assessed Value Determination

Not only are market value and assessed value designed for different purposes, but they are also based on different criteria, and determined by different professionals. Market value can be determined by a real estate professional, and is based on factors such as the current property market, and what people are likely to pay for a specific property in that area. Of course, these things will also be influenced by the economic market overall. For example, if the economy is in recession then market values will be down because fewer people in employment means fewer people can move and so the demand for homes is reduced.

When it comes to the assessed value, a qualified tax assessor values property, not a real estate agent. A tax assessor will consider things like the location of a property, with nicer areas usually being charged higher, as well as the condition of the property and how much similar homes are being sold for in the area. Again, homes that are sold for more and that demonstrate higher quality are likely to be assigned a higher assessed value.

Calculating Your Own Property Tax Assessment vs Market Value

While it is possible to get an idea of your property’s assessed value and market value without engaging professionals to do it for you, it can be complicated and so is not usually advised.

However, if you want to establish an estimate for your property’s assessed value then you can use a comparative market analysis or CMA for this purpose. A CMA will allow you to get an idea of the assessed value of your property by comparing it to the other assessed values of properties in your area. When doing this you must remember to account for things such as your location, the condition of the property, and the value of comparable properties in the area.

To establish an estimate of the market value of your property without consulting a real estate agent ( although it’s often better to consult 2 or 3 real estate and then take a mean calculation), you can use an online calculator tool such as this one.

However, do remember that it will be an estimation and nothing more than calculating a property’s market value is a very complex, and often ever-changing process and there can even be fluctuations even when professional real estate agents do it.

Comparing Property Tax Assessment vs Market Value

Knowing your property tax assessment value and your market value will allow you to make sounder decisions when it comes to financial planning including when to sell, or renovate your home, as well as how much to budget for your tax bill.

You can also compare both values to one another to establish whether the profits if you choose to sell your property will be optimized. For this, your market value needs to be higher than your assessed value. However, because every home and location is impacted by multiple factors, such a calculation is more of a guide than a guarantee.

The Assessed Value Of Your Property And New Construction And Improvements

New Construction or Improvements

Adding new construction or improving your property can add value in terms of tax assessment. However, replacements or repairs that are structural will not be included in this calculation. New construction and improvements’ appraised values need to be determined by a certified inspector.

Property Improvements Are Assessed Separately

Additionally, when it comes to the assessed value and improvements it’s important to note that the value for the improvements will be assessed separately to the value of the pre-existing property. Indeed areas that have not been improved will be valued in line with the initial sales price, plus the two percent increase every year.

Implications Of Buying Or Selling A House Below Market Value

f the assessed value of a property is lower than its market value, it may lead you to sell or buy for less. However, there are tax implications for this as you will discover, below. 

What Are The Tax Implications Of Selling A House Below Market Value?

If you choose to sell a property under the market value, some of the value of the property that you are giving away is considered a gift. This means you could be vulnerable to paying federal taxes on it and so it could end up costing you a great deal.

Is Buying A House From A Family Member Below The Market Value A Good Idea?

Similarly, if you are on the other side of the deal when someone such as a family member sells you a property at below-market value you will still be liable for any tax consequences. The current limit for these equity investments is set at $50,000 by the IRS. This means if you go above this you will need to pay tax on the equity.

Conclusion: How Does Market Value vs. Assessed Value Impact On Property & Financial Decisions

While it is confusing to have to deal with two different types of home value, it is crucial to have a clear idea of the two often different values of your property, as it can help you make sound financial decisions.

Knowing the market value of your property is crucial because it will provide you with information you need to know before you consider selling or renovating your property. Knowing your assessed value will help you better plan for your property taxes, and ensure there is no shortfall when the time comes to pay them.

However, in states where assessed value is inflated, property owners need to be mindful that there can be a significant difference in these two values. This is particularly important when it comes to selling their home because they can expect more than is reasonable and this may negatively impact their finances in several ways including disappointment in the true market valuation of their home.

Market Value In California Vs Assessed Value FAQs

knowing the difference between assessed property value and market value

Are Assessed Value And Market Value The Same Thing?

No! Tax-assessed values and market values are not the same things. They are assessed by different officials and have different purposes.

How Much Difference Is There Between Market Value & Assessed Value?

Market value and assessed tax value usually differ up to 20%. Market value tends to be higher, but property owners should watch out for assessed values inflated by the government which can confuse matters. Indeed, it is important to remember here that assessed value is used solely to determine property taxes and does not reflect the true value of a home.

Does Tax Assessment Impact Property Value?

Yes, while assessed value does not typically reflect the true market value of a home, it can influence it. For instance, properties with lower tax-assessed value may encourage more buyers. This can drive the market value up and lead to more profits.

However, when a property has a high tax assessment rate it can discourage buyers. This can decrease the demand, and so drive the market value down, and negatively impact the owner.

On the other hand, properties with lower taxes have the potential to attract more interested parties. buyers. This can drive up the market value of a property and so positively impact the owner. 

How Much Are Closing Costs When Selling a House for Cash in California?

PrimeClientMarketing on April 24, 2024

How Much Are Closing Costs When Selling a House for Cash in California?

Closing costs are a major consideration in most home sales in California. They usually cost around 2% to 5% of the sale price, with sellers picking up most of the tab. In recent times, that has meant an average cost of $7,953 in California.

But the good news is that when selling a house for cash, these closing costs don’t apply. You read that right – closing costs are zero when you sell a house for cash. Why is that the case, and what other costs could you save by selling a house for cash?

Let’s explore the answer together.

how much are closing costs in california

Closing Costs When Selling a House for Cash

Selling a house for cash could sound like a strange decision. After all, California is known as a seller’s market that enables people to get top dollar for their homes. This sounds great, but there are lots of hidden costs to factor in.

For example, if you sell using a regular realtor, you will have the following costs to pay:

  • Closing costs are often around 2% of the sale price
  • Commission and fees can amount to 6%
  • The national average cost for appraisals is $500

The difference when you sell a house for cash is that the company buying it simplifies everything for you. There is no need for an appraisal — they buy the home as-is. They will also pay all the closing costs.

What this means for you is that the price they offer is the price you pay. This is true regardless of whether your house is worth a million dollars or somewhere south of that.

Closing Cost Breakdown

It’s easy to bandy about the term “closing costs,” but what exactly are they? A quick breakdown will help you see how much you save when selling a house for cash.

Commission Fees

California realtors do not come cheap. Fees vary, but you can usually expect to pay 5% to 6% of the sale value of your home in commission alone. 

Title Insurance

Most buyers will ask for transfer insurance to protect themselves if there are issues with the title. This may cost as little as a few hundred dollars but can quickly reach the $1,000 mark.

You can save yourself these costs when you sell a home for cash, as the buyers take it as-is.

Transfer Tax

Currently, California property owners must pay a tax to transfer ownership of the property. This tax could run to around 0.11% of the sale price. It is not as costly as other closing expenses but will add to your burden.

Recording Fees

Recording fees are charged by the city or county where your house is located to record the real estate transaction. These fees are usually relatively low, often costing around $200.

These are just headline fees; depending on your home’s location and value, there may be others.

who pays closing costs in california

The Benefits of Selling a House for Cash

Most of the time, we probably want to sell our homes the hard way. It’s time-consuming and stressful, but it may give us the best chance of securing a high price for our homes. However, there are times when it’s just not the best option.

Selling a house for cash can save you a lot more than just the closing costs.

Get Your Cash Fast

You may be in the process of divorcing and want to move on with your life. You might have inherited a home that is now a burden rather than an asset. These and many other scenarios may lead you to decide it’s best to cash out your house as quickly as possible.

When you work with a property-buying service, you can get an offer within a day. After that, you can close in around a week or choose another date that works for you. Because there is no financing to arrange for the buyer, there is less pressure to close within their timescale.

That means that within one week, you could bring an end to:

  • Mortgage repayments
  • Property taxes
  • Utility bills
  • Insurance payments

You may be able to use the cash to settle outstanding debts or start a new life elsewhere. It’s up to you what you do with the money.

No Need to Carry Out Repairs

Home repairs can be costly. You may have bought your home and planned to fix it, but that’s no longer realistic due to a change in circumstances. Or you may have gotten older and can’t face the stress of fixing it up again.

You may know that before an appraisal, your home would need serious work.

Whatever your reasons, they will take care of everything when you sell your home to a cash-for-home service. As soon as the sale is completed, their crew will assess the property and make any needed repairs. Once it has been fixed up, they will relist it.

No Stress

Sometimes, you just need a stress-free way to sell your home. It’s tough to relax when you sell your home using the conventional route. You have to keep your home looking its best day in and day out, just in case someone wants to view it.

You will have to clear out when the realtor wants to show someone around. Then, you might get involved in protracted negotiations and have to wait for surveys. Many buyers drive a hard bargain; if you back out, you’re back to square one.

Selling a house for cash may not be the best way to get the most money for your home, but the pros can outweigh the cons in many situations.

selling house for cash to reduce closing costs

Sell Your Home to Premier Property Buyers

We understand that selling a house for cash is a huge decision. However, the closing costs and other expenses soon mount up and eat into your profit. When you sell a home for cash, you have zero hassle and can get your cash fast.

At Premier Property Buyers, we will give you cash for your piece of California real estate and close within just 7 days. You’ll be able to move on with your life without lifting a finger in repairs or paying a penny in closing costs.

First, Compare the costs, second, check out all the areas we buy houses for cash then, contact us for a cash offer for your home today.

How Much is California State Tax on Selling a House?

PrimeClientMarketing on April 23, 2024

How Much is California State Tax on Selling a House?

The average sale price of a home in California is expected to hit a staggering $860,300 in 2024. That’s a lot of dough, and if you’re fortunate enough to own a piece of California real estate, then selling a house could lead to a big payday. That may sound exciting, but that’s before both the Golden State and Uncle Sam take a bit out of your profits.

Along with closing fees, realtor costs, and the cost of getting your home shipshape, the state government could also hit you where it hurts. However, it is important to take a closer look at California state tax before you decide that a property sale is more hassle than it’s worth. 

We’re going to take a closer look at the biggie – capital gains tax – plus the smaller documentary transfer tax. We’ll see how each affects California homeowners looking to move on.

california real estate taxes

Capital Gains Tax in California

Anyone who profits when they sell a home in California may have to pay the state some capital gains tax. Capital gain refers to the difference between the purchase and sale price of a home. You will never have to pay capital gains tax on the full sale price of your home.

For example, if you bought your home for $100,000 back in 2002 and decide to sell it for $300,000 in 2024, you would have a capital gain of $200,000. 

Like the IRS, California allows you to exclude a certain amount of the capital gain if the home was your principal residence. To qualify as such, you must have owned the home for at least two years. Additionally, you must have lived in it for at least two of those years.

When You Do Not Have to Declare Your Gain

California allows for an exclusion if your gain is below a set threshold and meets other criteria. In addition, there are different reporting rules for individuals and married couples/registered domestic partners (RDPs).

Individuals do not have to pay capital gains tax on the sale of California real estate when all of the following criteria apply:

  • Your gain (not the sale price) was less than $250,000
  • You can not have used the exclusion in the previous two years
  • You have owned and lived in the home for a minimum of two years

If any one of these does not apply, you will have to pay capital gains tax.

Married couples and RDPs can benefit from an exclusion if the following applies:

  • The gain was below $500,000
  • The couple filed a joint return for the year of the sale
  • Either spouse/RDP fulfills the two-out-of-five-year ownership requirement
  • Both spouses/RDPs meet the two-out-of-five-year occupancy requirement
  • Neither spouse/RDP used an exclusion from the sale of another home in the last two years

If you do not meet any of these criteria, you may have to pay capital gains tax.

Reducing Your Capital Gains Tax Bill

A capital gains tax bill can leave you in tax shock. However, there are some strategies to reduce or eliminate your tax liability. 

One is a 1031 exchange. This may allow you to sell an investment property and buy another of equal or greater value without paying capital gains tax. A Deferred Sales Trust (DST) may be another option.

Federal Capital Gains Tax

In this article, we’re only focusing on California state tax. But it’s important to factor in federal capital gains taxes as well. In many cases, you may be able to benefit from principal residence and other exclusions and not have to pay any tax.

If you do, there are three levels of federal capital gains tax: 0%, 15%, and 20%. These levels vary depending on your taxable income. Crunch the numbers and talk to a tax professional for specific advice on your situation.

california capital gains tax when selling a house

California Documentary Transfer Tax

Counties and cities in California impose a Documentary Transfer Tax on documents that convey real property. Simply put, to transfer your home to another party, you have to pay tax.

This is made up of two parts:

  • County rate: Set at $1.10 per $1,000 of the sales price
  • City rate: This varies from nil to several dollars per $1,000 or a percentage rate based on the sale price

While this is usually a relatively low tax compared to other closing costs, it’s still an important consideration. If you decide to sell a home for cash, talk to the homebuying service about who will pay these costs.

Paying Taxes on an Inherited Home

If a loved one is kind enough to leave you their home in their will, there’s a strong possibility you’ll be looking to sell it. Selling a house for cash is a hassle-free way to get your money fast. However, it raises the question of whether you will have to pay estate taxes or any other taxes on these funds.

The good news is that the federal government does not charge estate taxes on most estates. As of 2024, the exclusion stands at $13,610,000. We’re guessing that this will apply to most people reading this!

Estate Taxes in California

There are no estate taxes in the State of California, which just leaves the question of capital gains tax. This will only be charged on any increase in value from the date you inherited the house until the date you sell it. For example, if the house was worth $250,000 when you inherited it and $270,000 when you sold it, the taxable gain would be $20,000.

Whether you pay capital gains tax on this and how much would depend on how long you have owned it, the exclusions mentioned above, and your personal tax rate.

california state tax on real estate sales

Selling a House Just Got Easier

Selling a house for cash may not eliminate your tax burden, but it can reduce practically every other cost. Sell your home to Premier Property Buyers, and you will pay no commissions, closing fees, inspection, appraisal costs, or appraisal-required repairs. You will get an immediate guaranteed cash offer and could close within a week!

We realize that selling a house is a bit of a decision. That’s why we’re upfront about our offer, giving you time to crunch the numbers to see if they work for you. If not, you can walk away with absolutely no obligation.

Why not find out how much you could get for your home? Learn more and fill out our online form for a fair offer today!

Can I Sell a House With Unpermitted Work or Open Permits in California?

PrimeClientMarketing on April 1, 2024

Can I Sell a House With Unpermitted Work or Open Permits in California?

Have you recently received an offer on your California home only to have the deal fall through due to unpermitted work?

This usually happens during a buyer’s home inspection when the inspector discovers work that isn’t up to code or hasn’t been signed off by a licensed home inspector.

You can sell a home with unpermitted work in California, but the process takes longer and is more complicated than usual. Read on to discover the implications of selling a home with this particular problem.

selling house with open permits in california

Defining Open Permits and Unpermitted Work in California

California has strict building codes to ensure the safety and well-being of homebuyers. These laws extend to home improvements, too.

When you perform significant upgrades to your California home, you must get a building permit before you commence. Once you’ve completed the renovation, a certified home inspector must confirm that the work complies with the relevant building code.

There are three main instances where home sellers might end up in a situation where they are trying to sell a house with unpermitted work:

  • The owner did unpermitted DIY work on the home
  • A contractor did unpermitted work on the home
  • The work was done to code, but regulations have since changed

What Is an Open Permit?

A permit is considered ‘open’ until an inspector approves the work. Each city has different time limits for this, depending on the work in question. 

Open permits usually result from one of the following issues:

  • The contractor never closed the permit
  • The contractor did not complete the inspection process correctly
  • The city did not mark the permit as closed on the system

Sometimes the seller might be unaware of these problems until they try to sell their home.

can i sell a house with unpermitted work in california

Risks and Challenges

If you’re aware of any permitting issues with your home and don’t want to resolve them, you can sell it as-is. You must reveal any permitting issues in the sellers’ disclosure, so the buyer has the information they need to decide whether they want to proceed with the sale or not.

Inevitably, unpermitted work will decrease your property value, and buyers will likely have difficulty convincing a lender to give them a mortgage.

To avoid this, you can obtain a permit for completed projects from your city retroactively. This can be a costly affair and may lead to fines for a code violation.

It usually involves hiring a contractor to bring the improvement up to code so a building inspector can close the permit.

Failure to disclose unpermitted work or open permits when selling your home is fraud. As such, the buyer could sue you for all the costs involved in rectifying any issues with the property.

It can be challenging to find buyers who are willing to take on the time and effort to bring a house up to code. 

Market Perceptions

Apart from the effort and cost involved in buying a home with unpermitted work, safety concerns can affect buyer decisions.

Buyers are hesitant to commit to a house that doesn’t comply with current building codes due to concerns for the safety of their family. After all, these standards exist to ensure that buildings are habitable and safe.

In this light, buyers might regard you as untrustworthy if you’re selling a home with unpermitted work.

Selling Solutions

Lenders always insist on home inspections before granting a mortgage to any buyer, and homes with unpermitted work or open permits won’t pass these inspections. That means you won’t be able to sell your home to a traditional buyer until you’ve rectified these permitting issues.

Private cash buyers might consider buying a home as-is with unpermitted work, but you can expect them to make you a low offer to make up for their anticipated costs.

Your final option is to sell your home to cash home buyers in California. These property investors buy homes in any condition, repair them, and sell them at a profit.

They don’t need a mortgage and, thus, don’t require a home inspection.

Cash Buyers vs. Traditional Home Sales

The major difference between selling your home to a cash buyer instead of via traditional means is time. Cash home buyers have the resources to take your unwanted home off your hands immediately and deal with the red tape later.

When you sell your home via conventional means, you can expect to encounter long delays and much red tape while trying to bring your permitting paperwork up to date.

In some cases, you might need to hire a contractor to demolish the unpermitted renovations and rebuild them. This will cost you a lot of money, even if you do manage to avoid paying any fines.

If you decide to sell the home as-is, you can expect to wait a long time before you find someone willing to buy a home with unpermitted work, and you can expect several rounds of negotiations before you settle on a price.

When you sell a home to a cash home buyer, the process is simple, transparent, and quick. They make an offer on your home, and if you’re amenable, they can close in just a few days.

You’ll still get an offer that is below market value for your home, but you’ll save on the time and cost involved in resolving permitting issues before the sale.

Premier Property Buyers

Premier Property Buyers is a reputable cash investor willing to offer you a hassle-free sales process. We can help you achieve a quick sale by avoiding the need for repairs, permits, and inspections. 

Our fast cash offers and flexible closing dates ensure you experience a smooth sales process with no stress or worries. Find out more about how it works or call us at (714) 475-7526 to discuss your needs and receive an off

selling my house as-is with no permits

Premier Property Buyers Can Help You

While attempting to sell a house with open permits or unpermitted work in California, you’re bound to come across significant obstacles. These include hesitant buyers, reduced property value, extra costs, and potential legal challenges.

If you need to sell your house fast in California and you’re encountering any of these difficulties, there is a solution.

Premier Property Buyers offers a reliable and stress-free alternative to traditional sales. Reach out today for a no-obligation offer on your California home.

Navigating Squatters Rights in California & Selling Your Property As-Is

PrimeClientMarketing on March 30, 2024

Navigating Squatters Rights in California & Selling Your Property As-Is

Property owners in California expect protection under the law. However, when squatters move into their homes (or those of their loved ones), that belief can disappear. Adverse possession laws and squatters rights mean that lawful owners can sometimes find it challenging to get rid of people on their properties there illegally.

Worse still, going through the legal process to evict squatters is challenging. Many homeowners are successful, but it can take months.

Therefore, many property owners exercise the option to sell as-is to cash home buyers when dealing with squatters. This approach releases capital immediately and avoids the nightmare of having to deal with California’s unfair property laws.

This blog begins with a section explaining squatters rights in California and how they can claim adverse possession. We discuss the legal protection the state offers the original property owner before moving on to how to deal with squatters on your property. Finally, we look at how you can sell your property to a cash property-buying company to exit your investment fast and free up your money.

squatters rights in california

Understanding Squatters Rights in California

Squatting is against the law in California. However, the government still affords some squatters rights, much to the distress of property owners.

The law defines squatting as when someone occupies an abandoned, uninhabited, or vacant property they don’t own or live in without the owner’s permission. The crime combines trespassing with residing in someone else’s property illegally.

Even so, squatters have rights in California via adverse possession claims. These allow them to gain legal ownership of property if they meet the state’s criteria. Squatters can use legal methods to transfer property ownership away from you.

Fortunately, the state puts up some barriers to prevent squatters from exercising their legal rights immediately. Illegal occupants must fulfill various criteria before the state will let them claim legal ownership.

First, a squatter in California must prove continuous possession for five consecutive years. Failing to show a full history undermines their case.

Second, they must show exclusive possession. This means that they must be the sole occupant, not be in a rental agreement, and not share with legitimate tenants.

Third, the squatter must pay property taxes during their stay. The state requires them to behave like a conventional California property owner to gain ownership.

Finally, squatters can help their case by improving the property in some way. For example, if they improve rental properties as holdover tenants, that might bolster their case.

Meeting these requirements set out in real estate law lets squatters make an adverse possession claim. If the courts agree to the claim, they may transfer the title from the actual property owner (you) to the squatters.

In summary, here are some of the specific continuous possession requirements over five years:

  • Hostile possession – the squatters must not pay rent or own the property and live there without the owner’s consent
  • Actual possession – the squatters must physically reside in the property
  • Exclusive possession – the squatters must not share the property with renters or use the property as a rental property
  • Continuous possession – the squatters must remain living in the property continuously for five consecutive years
  • Open possession – the squatters must not try to hide that they are living on the property (sometimes called notorious possession)

Identifying Squatters and Legal Responses

Finding squatters in your home or discovering an adverse possession claim against you can be distressing. However, you can take action to protect your property rights.

The first step is to identify whether you have squatters on your property. This process can be surprisingly challenging as many unauthorized inhabitants try to conceal their occupancy and blend in.

Start by inspecting your property for unauthorized entry. Check broken windows, damaged doors, and evidence of people bypassing security measures. If you use a property management company, ask them if they have seen anything untoward. (The best management companies secure your vacant property and check it periodically for squatter-related issues).

Sometimes squatters set up properties as informal addresses. Therefore, look for evidence of mail in the mailbox (if there is one), trash outside, and furniture you don’t recognize.

Check utility usage at the property. High water, gas, and electric bills would indicate squatters are inside.

Finally, look for people you don’t recognize going to and leaving the property. Vacant properties are a prime target for potential squatters, even if you have rightful ownership.

If you believe you have squatters on your property, don’t confront them directly. Unfortunately, squatter’s rights in California could mean you are breaking the law if you try to evict them. Instead, try a softly-softly approach at first, backed up with legal action if necessary.

Here are some things you could try:

selling a house with squatters in los angeles county

Talk To The Squatters

The first step is to talk to the squatters and offer them something in return for leaving. Many property owners bite the bullet and simply pay them to leave, which they sometimes will.

This approach seems like capitulation, but it is often the most effective. It reduces stress and cost, helping you reclaim your property ownership faster.

Before you pay any money, seek legal counsel. Find out which strategies work best and how to prevent disaster when squatters claim adverse possession. Check you don’t break any squatter’s rights that could cause legal headaches.

Transition The Squatter To A Tenant

Another option is to transition the squatter to a tenant. This approach can reduce the risk of a hostile claim and help you get paid simultaneously.

But be careful. Squatters in California are unlikely to pay rent consistently (if at all). Furthermore, you might set a precedent. Other squatters might try to move into your properties if they believe they will become tenants.

If you have holdover tenants in the property, you could extend their tenancy agreement, particularly if they paid you in the past. Even if they don’t have the legal right to stay according to your contract, getting them to continue making payments can help you maintain the profitability of your rental property.

Serve An Eviction Notice

If the gently-gently approach fails, serve the squatters an eviction notice with proper notice. This legal document tells them when and how they should leave.

If they don’t leave, you can take the eviction process further by going to court. Judges will evaluate the situation regarding your property and hand it back to you, using force if necessary.

Initiate An Unlawful Detainer Lawsuit

Another approach is to initiate an unlawful detainer lawsuit. This legal mechanism gives squatters in California three days to vacate a property before being evicted by hand.

Filing an unlawful detainer suit with the court is something you can do to evict people living on your property unlawfully. However, always use an attorney to guarantee you follow the proper legal procedures.

It is also costly. Following all your legal obligations when dealing with adverse possession often means paying thousands of dollars to a legal professional, which doesn’t seem fair if you are the actual owner.

Selling a Property As-Is with Squatters

Another option most people don’t consider is selling a property with squatters as-is to companies like Premier Property Buyers. Taking this approach lets you bypass adverse possession claims and squatter’s rights in California, and get out of the asset fast.

Here are some additional benefits:

  • Avoid the eviction process. Removing a squatter claiming adverse possession can be challenging at the best of times, particularly if they don’t want to leave. The eviction process can be lengthy and expensive, reducing the value of your investment (and sometimes your capital). But when you sell to companies like Premier Property Buyers, you avoid all the hassle. Any evictions become the third party’s responsibility.
  • Reduced renovation burden. You also avoid the burden of renovating the property once you evict the squatters under California property law. You don’t have to fix the plumbing, remove the trash, or wash the carpets. It’s no longer your responsibility.
  • Stop paying property taxes. Finally, once you transfer the property to a third party, you no longer have to pay property taxes, including municipal taxes. That becomes the responsibility of the new formal owner.

Of course, you don’t have to sell your property. As the property owner, you are within your legal rights to fight squatters taking advantage of adverse possession laws. However, that can be challenging and selling is an excellent way to quickly exit your property investment and use the funds for something else.

The price a property-buying company offers for your property will be lower than the market price because they will need to deal with the squatter issue. However, you will still get back most of your capital (which you can then use for more profitable investments).

Property-buying companies assess properties affected by adverse possession in California by considering factors that affect valuation. These include the strength of the adverse possession claim and whether squatters are using the property exclusively, the damage done to the property, the cost of maintaining California squatters rights, and the length of the eviction process. The lower these costs are, the more money you will receive.

The Process of Selling Your Home As-Is to a Cash Buyer

The process companies use to assess properties with squatters in California follows several steps:

Step 1: Contact the property-buying company

The first step is to contact the property-buying company. Providing them with ample information about your adverse possession case will help them determine whether they can purchase the property and speed up how fast you get back the capital tied up in the building.

Step 2: Get A Property assessment

The next step is to assess the property’s market value without squatters present.

Valuers start by considering comparable properties in the area in a similar condition. This assessment gives them a baseline for what the property is worth without squatters in it.

Next, they consider the squatter situation. Where the adverse possession claim is weak, the risk is lower and the value of the property is higher. However, if squatters have been there for a long time without lawful permission and pay their property taxes on time, then the value of the property will be lower because they may have a valid adverse possession claim.

At the same time, third-party property-buying companies consider eviction costs. Considering squatting laws and adverse possession rights helps them determine how long getting rid of the squatters will take and the expenses involved. Fortunately, third-party property-buying companies know the law and understand the process better than most California property owners. That means that they can remove squatters faster, potentially saving existing property owners money, even if they offer a lower amount for the house.

Finally, cash property-buying companies must consider estimates for repairing the property, if damaged. Squatters can wreck interiors, forcing high clean-up costs. Again, this damage will reduce the cash offer for the property you receive.

Step 3: Get An Offer

The third step is to make you an offer, considering the adverse possession claim, any property taxes paid, and squatters rights. Usually, you will receive a discounted price below market value. The size of the discount will depend on the squatter issue.

Step 4: Close The Deal

Finally, you will close the deal. The goal of the property-buying company is to provide you with cash upfront to get out of your property investment fast. Getting a quick sale lets you move on with your life and forget about the squatters altogether.

evicting squatters from a house in california

Preventative Measures Against Squatters

While selling your property for cash is an option, the best approach is always to prevent squatters from residing in your property in the first place. To do this as a legal owner, you need to protect your home. You can do this by:

  • Making your buildings look live-in
  • Securing the property with robust locks
  • Addressing any weak points, such as broken windows
  • Getting neighbors to call you and report any suspicious activity immediately

Even simple actions can discourage squatters and force them to look elsewhere.

Case Study: Squatters Move Into Family Home

A man from San Diego inherited his mother’s home after she died. Since he didn’t need it, he planned on selling it.

However, California squatters took actual possession of the property while he was on vacation. When he returned from overseas, he tried to remove them, but the police and courts would not act quickly.

Consequently, he called a property-buying company. They gave him cash for the residence, helping him liquidate his mother’s estate and leave the squatter problem to professionals.

Conclusion

Now that you have read this blog, you should have a better understanding of how straightforward it is to sell a home as-is, even with squatters in it. Cash property-buying companies, like Premier Property Buyers, can help you cash out of challenging circumstances where dealing with people illegally on your property is too much stress and hassle. They have expertise in removing squatters and dealing with adverse possession in California, helping property owners like you reduce stress and worry, and get on with life.

Selling a House After a Loan Modification in California

PrimeClientMarketing on February 24, 2024

Selling a House After a Loan Modification in California

In 2023, $13.6 billion over 441 loans we modified. Selling a house can be a stressful process, especially if you’re a part of the $13.4 billion selling a house with a loan modification in California. The mortgage crisis and market volatility have made it difficult for homeowners to sell their properties through traditional financing options.

However, there is an alternative approach that can help you sell your home fast and avoid the complications associated with traditional financing. We will explore the benefits of selling your house as-is for cash after a loan modification in California and see how cash home buyers will help you.

selling house after loan modifcation

Speedy Sale Process: Sell Home Fast California

After a loan modification, one of the key advantages of selling a house as-is for cash is the speed at which the sale can be completed. Unlike the traditional home selling process, which involves appraisals, inspections, and lengthy negotiations, selling for cash allows you to bypass these time-consuming steps.

Cash home buyers in California are experienced in fast transactions, enabling you to sell your property quickly and move on with your life. This is a huge perk after the stress of a loan modification. Especially if you’re in financial trouble.

Avoiding the Hassle of Appraisals With a Mortgage Modification Home Sale

Appraisals are an integral part of the traditional home-selling process. However, selling as-is for cash eliminates the need for appraisals. After a loan modification, it’s essential to sell without one.  

When you sell your house for cash, the buyers are not concerned about obtaining an official appraisal because they are purchasing the property in its current condition. This means that any repairs or updates required by an appraiser can be avoided, saving you time, effort, and potentially costly expenses.

You don’t have to worry if your house appraises for less. A cash investor takes this all into account. We have the end goal of buying your home quickly.

Flexibility With California Real Estate Market Volatility

The California real estate market is known for its volatility. Market fluctuations can greatly affect the value of your property and your chances of finding a buyer. By selling your house as-is for cash, you can bypass the uncertainties of market fluctuations.

Cash home investors have a clear understanding of the real estate market in California. They are willing to purchase properties regardless of market conditions. This flexibility ensures that you can sell your house for a fair price, even during turbulent times.

selling house

Simplified Process After a Loan Modification

If you have recently gone through a loan modification possibly to avoid a foreclosure, the last thing you want is to deal with complex financing options. Selling your house for cash ensures a simplified process.

Cash home buyers are not interested in reviewing financial documents, credit scores, or loan history. They are primarily focused on the property itself, allowing you to sell your house without any complications associated with loan modifications.

No Need for Repairs With Cash Home Buyers

With an as-is cash sale, there is no need to make costly repairs. You don’t have to spend the time and money on repairing things you would during a traditional sale. This takes off a lot of stress after a loan modification.

With a traditional sale, you’d often go around and make repairs or updates to help your home show better. This means anything from fixing leaks to changing broken light fixtures. You will also have to do this process again after an inspection if repairs come up.

Repairs cost a lot of money and buyers expect the best when they are looking for a new home. This is why selling to a cash buyer, in an as-is sale saves you a lot on repairs. There is no need to coordinate a contractor and live in a construction zone.

Save Time and Money Without Traditional Financing

Selling a home traditionally means getting your home ready for sale, marketing, home tours, lender delays, and more. Traditional sales take months. Even for a new construction home, there are always hurdles.

On a home that needs repairs or a home under financial distress, there are even more delays. When you want to save money and time, an as-is cash sale is your best bet. After an already stressful loan modification and financial hardship, you want peace of mind.

With a sale to a cash buyer, you’ll save a ton of time. You won’t have to deal with buyers coming into your home for weeks on end. You won’t always have to wait for lender approvals and hurdles.

Move on to Your Next Chapter Sooner

After the stress of a loan modification, you’re likely eager to sell. Whether you’re going through a divorce, a death, or a financial hardship, an as-is cash sale lets you move on sooner.

You’ll sell your home quickly and have the cash you need in less time. Give yourself a break and make the sale with a professional cash buyer. We understand that you’re ready to sell and move on to your next chapter.

With the cash from your sale, you can buy or rent your next home and move on with your life. Save yourself stress and time and move with ease. You’ve been through enough financial stress.

sell house cash after loan modification

Call Today to Learn More About Selling House Loan Modification in California

Selling a house with a loan modification in California for cash will provide numerous benefits to homeowners. From the speedy sale process to avoiding appraisals and market volatility, cash home buyers offer a hassle-free alternative to traditional financing. If you’re looking to sell your home fast and avoid the complexities of the real estate market, selling as-is for cash is undoubtedly worth considering.

Premier Property Buyers has years of local California real estate experience. We have real estate professionals ready to evaluate your home even after a loan modification. To learn more and to see what your home is worth in a cash offer, click here to fill out our contact form to get in touch. Let our experts buy your home quickly and with less stress, hassle, and time.

Our Promise

Premier Property Buyers is a company that purchases, rehabs, and then sells houses at a profit. Offers are made to sellers based on market value and repairs needed. Premier Property Buyers, will do everything possible to bring forth the highest possible offer to give the seller the most benefit from dealing with a fast sale. In addition, we are licensed real estate agents and can either buy your house for cash or help you sell the more traditional route. DRE Lic# 01918543.

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