Gema Smith's Blog

What You Should Know About Getting a Mortgage Today
Posted on 07/07/2025
What You Should Know About Getting a Mortgage Today
If you’ve been putting off buying a home because you thought getting approved would be too hard, know this: qualifying for a mortgage is starting to get a bit more achievable, but lending standards are still strong. Lenders are making it slightly easier for well-qualified buyers to access financing, which is opening more doors for people ready to...
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Think No One’s Buying Homes Right Now? Think Again.
Posted on 07/07/2025
Think No One’s Buying Homes Right Now? Think Again.
If you’ve seen headlines saying home sales are down compared to last year, you might be thinking – is it even a good time to sell? Here’s the thing. Sure, the pace of the market has cooled compared to the frenzy we saw just a few years ago, but that’s not a red flag. It’s a return to...
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The basics of electronic recycling
Posted on 07/06/2025
The basics of electronic recycling
It's no secret that we rely on electronics daily to ease...
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Posted on 07/03/2025
Why Homeowners Are Moving On, Even With Today's Mortgage Rates
It's completely understandable to feel attached to a low mortgage rate, especially if you secured one around 3%. For many homeowners, that fantastic rate has been a significant factor in delaying a move over the past few years. But here's a fresh perspective to consider. While that low rate might be financially appealing, it often can't compensate for...
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Posted on 06/30/2025
Multi-Generational Homebuying Hit a Record High – Here’s Why
Multi-generational living is on the rise. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 17% of homebuyers purchase a home to share with parents, adult children, or extended family. That’s the highest share ever recorded by NAR (see graph below): And what’s behind the increase? Affordability. NAR explains: “In 2024, a notable 36% of homebuyers cited “cost savings”...
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Posted on 06/30/2025
What Every Homeowner Needs To Know In Today’s Shifting Market
Here’s something you need to know. The housing market is getting back to a healthier, more normal place. And even though it may not sound like it, this shift is actually a good thing. It’s what you should expect. It’s just that our expectations have been skewed by the intense seller’s market over the past few years. But...
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Posted on 06/29/2025
What you'll need to know about escrow accounts
If you’re new to the homebuying process, you may be...
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Posted on 06/24/2025
Is Selling Alone Worth the Risk? Why Agents Lead the Way
Selling your home can be a big decision, and you might have considered going the "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) route to save on commission. However, current market trends suggest that more and more homeowners are finding that selling without an agent just isn't worth the risk. The Declining Trend of FSBO Sales Recent data from the National...
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Posted on 06/23/2025
Why Homeownership Is Going To Be Worth It
Life can feel a bit unpredictable these days. What’s happening with inflation? The economy? The housing market? But in the middle of all that uncertainty, there’s one thing a lot of people still crave – a place to call their own. Because when everything else feels up in the air, home can be the thing that grounds you....
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Posted on 06/23/2025
Why More Sellers Are Choosing To Move, Even with Today’s Rates
It’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move in recent years. But here’s something to consider. While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn’t make up being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can’t handle anymore, or...
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Posted on 06/22/2025
3 Major Ways Technology Is Changing Real Estate Today
Technology enhances our lives in new and once-unimaginable ways. The real estate business is one that’s benefited from some of these technological advances, as our needs and priorities have changed during the last decade. Here are some of the most important emerging trends in real estate technology today: Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) is the backbone of the...
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Posted on 07/08/2025
19087 Mayberry Dr, Castro Valley, CA 94546 is now new to the market!
Listed by Compass - DRE# 01128805
Experience modern elegance in this fully renovated 2024 architectural gem in Castro Valley. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers 1,389 sq. ft. of luxurious living space on a 6,292 sq. ft. lot, designed with high-end finishes and expert craftsmanship. Adding tremendous value, this property comes with approved permits for a 450 sq. ft. ADU, ideal for rental income or an in-law suite. Step inside to recessed lighting, a statement chandelier, and a large picture window flooding the space with natural light. Luxury laminate flooring and sleek barn doors add a contemporary touch. The custom chefs kitchen boasts top-tier stainless steel...
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