Are you ready to make a move?

Buying or selling a home is a big deal! Whether you are a Seller or a Buyer, there are many things to consider and to do to make the process a rewarding experience for you and to meet your goals.

So, you are a Seller. . .

The family is growing and you need more room; you’ve been transferred to a different city; the kids have left home and your place is just too big; you need a single level floor plan; you want to simplify life and do more traveling. These are just a few of the reasons people are motivated to sell. But, where do you begin?

Go see your accountant or financial advisor to discuss your plans. Make sure you understand how selling your home will impact your finances and other aspects of your life, like your retirement nest egg and your estate plan.

Enlist the services of an experienced Realtor who you can trust to counsel and guide you through the entire sales process--someone who will communicate with you from start to finish and beyond! Start with an evaluation of the market value of your home. I know this sounds a bit clinical when you are talking about “your home”, but it is critical to understand that in spite of what you feel is the value of your home, the market will ultimately determine its value. Together, you and your Realtor should review what has happened in your market and then together arrive at a market value for your home that properly positions it in the market to sell as quickly as possible at the best price possible.

Make your property shine. Do you remember what made you buy your home? It is likely that someone else will also be drawn to your property for the same reason. Does this feature still “shine”? Was it the view that the trees now have swallowed up? Was it the shiny shutters that are now dull or sporting patches of peeling paint? Walk your property with your Realtor and assess what needs to be done to increase its market appeal and then do it before you put your property on the market. It may be necessary to put some things in storage or to stage a room to show it off. When you are done, put your prized asset on display and the buyers will come. I know it.

So, you are a Buyer . . .

That is exciting! Do some “homework” first. Figure out how much you can comfortably put down for the purchase and get a pre-approval letter from your lender so you know how much you can borrow. This is important for two reasons: (1) You will be able to focus on properties you know you will be able to buy; and (2) It will give you a competitive advantage over another offer that cannot demonstrate the same financial readiness. You should also write down your “must haves” verses the other things that you would like to have but are not critical to the purchase. This will help you stay focused and will be invaluable information for your Realtor. It’s fine to start your search on the internet. Note the styles of homes and the areas that appeal to you, but when you are ready to buy, find an experienced Realtor to work with you to find the right home and to guide you through the buying process. Buying a home, whether it is a primary residence or a vacation home, is a big deal. Work with a Realtor who listens to your needs, knows the market, communicates well, and makes the process as seamless as possible. Then enjoy your new home!

Linda Sells

The Hope Ranch & Santa Barbara Lifestyle

Linda Lorenzen-Hughes, Broker/ Consultant at Coldwell Banker Santa Barbara, has been a Hope Ranch resident since 1972 and has been representing buyers and sellers in Hope Ranch and Santa Barbara real estate since 1977. Linda brings a tremendous degree of knowledge, experience, and professionalism to the real estate world. She has proven to be a valuable resource for clients because of her experience with properties of all types and price levels. Linda has sold over 230 Hope Ranch properties in her career— more than any other realtor in the Santa Barbara Multiple Listing Service.

About Hope Ranch

This unique coastal community has a long history, beginning with the local Chumash and evolving into what is now “Hope Ranch”, named after Thomas W. Hope, who purchased the land in 1861. The first estates with mansions and formal gardens, built in the 1920s, rivaled the finest Montecito had to offer and they still do today.

Hope Ranch, however, has something that Montecito does not — a privately accessed beach with picnic areas and playground, miles of equestrian trails, private security service and fun community gatherings. Located conveniently close to Santa Barbara and Goleta, Hope Ranch offers easy access to the freeway, Santa Barbara Airport, fine dining and shopping, entertainment and more. Many Hope Ranch homeowners join the La Cumbre Golf and Country Club, which is nestled in the heart of the Ranch and is a social hub for members and their guests. In addition to its wonderful golf course, the club includes tennis facility, aquatics area with alfresco dining, a complete fitness center and club house with formal dining.

Hope Ranch and Santa Barbara offer an unique and idyllic lifestyle. Let Linda assist you in making your Santa Barbara real estate dreams come true.

Linda Lorenzen-Hughes, a 35 year Broker Consultant with Coldwell Banker Santa Barbara, (ranked in the top 3% of agents internationally) can be reached at:

CALL OR TEXT (805) 886-1842

EMAIL lindal@coldwellbanker.com

WEB www.lindalorenzenhughes.com