Gema Smith's Blog

Posted on 05/22/2025
Retire with Confidence: Financial Tips for Seniors
Retirement should be a time to enjoy the fruits of your lifelong efforts—not a time for financial stress or uncertainty. Whether you're newly retired or planning ahead, having a solid financial strategy in place is key to enjoying a comfortable and secure retirement. Here are essential financial tips to help seniors retire with confidence: 1. Reevaluate Your Budget...
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Posted on 05/22/2025
Wellness After 60: A Guide to Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Turning 60 marks a meaningful milestone—one that comes with wisdom, life experience, and, ideally, a renewed focus on wellness. Contrary to old stereotypes, life after 60 is not about slowing down; it's about stepping into a new season with purpose, energy, and joy. Wellness after 60 means more than just managing health conditions—it’s about thriving in every area...
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Posted on 05/22/2025
Aging in Motion: Embracing Life Through Every Stage
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about shifting perspective. It’s about honoring the past, embracing the present, and opening the door to a future still full of potential. In today’s dynamic world, older adults are redefining what it means to age, proving that vitality, purpose, and joy don’t fade with time—they evolve. Past Memories: The Foundation of Who We...
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Posted on 05/22/2025
Retirement Housing: Should You Stay, Sell, or Downsize?
As retirement approaches, one of the most significant decisions you’ll face is what to do with your home. It’s not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about lifestyle, financial security, health, and peace of mind. Should you stay in your current home, sell and relocate, or downsize to something more manageable? Each option comes with its own pros and...
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Posted on 05/19/2025
Second Half of 2025: Will the Real Estate Market Shift Again?
Some Highlights • Are you wondering what to expect if you buy or sell a home in the second half of the year? Here’s what the expert forecasts tell you. • Mortgage rates are expected to come down slightly. There will be more homes available for sale. And as inventory rises, home price growth will moderate. • Want...
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Posted on 05/19/2025
Why Would I Move with a 3% Mortgage Rate?
If you have a 3% mortgage rate, you’re probably pretty hesitant to let that go. And even if you’ve toyed with the idea of moving, this nagging thought may be holding you back: “why would I give that up?” But when you ask that question, you may be putting your needs on the back burner without realizing it....
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Posted on 05/18/2025
Home music studio ideas to inspire your creativity
For homeowners in need of home music studio ideas, the...
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Posted on 05/12/2025
Why You’ll Want a Home Inspection
Some Highlights Once your offer is accepted, an inspector will assess the condition of the house, including things like the roof, foundation, plumbing, and more. That information is incredibly important and paves the way for you to re-negotiate with the seller, as needed. So, you don’t want to skip this step. An inspection is your chance to avoid...
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Posted on 05/12/2025
Home Projects That Boost Value
Whether you’re planning to move soon or not, it’s smart to be strategic about which home projects you take on. Your time, energy, and money matter – and not all upgrades offer the payoff you might expect. As U.S. News Real Estate explains: ". . . not every home renovation project will increase the resale value of a...
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Posted on 05/11/2025
A beginners guide to fun home projects
DIY home projects can be a super affordable way to give...
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Posted on 05/05/2025
The 20% Down Payment Myth, Debunked
Saving up to buy a home can feel a little intimidating, especially right now. And for many first-time buyers, the idea that you have to put 20% down can feel like a major roadblock. But that’s actually a common misconception. Here’s the truth. Do You Really Have To Put 20% Down When You Buy a Home? Unless your...
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Posted on 05/07/2025
20578 3rd St, Saratoga, CA 95070 is now new to the market!
Listed by Compass - DRE# 01128805
Nestled in the heart of The Village in downtown Saratoga, this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom split-level home offers a unique blend of semi-rural serenity and vibrant city access. Mature trees provide natural privacy, all while being just steps from Saratoga award-winning schools, Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and year-round community events. The thoughtfully designed layout includes one bedroom and a full bathroom on the lower level with its own separate entrance perfect for guests, in-laws, or a private office space. Upstairs, you will find two spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom, thoughtfully...
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