Orange County Real Estate Podcast

08/20/2023

Season 1, Episode 2: Reverse mortgages have come a long way and been through changes. Are they legit or a scam? Watch or listen to this episode to experience insights and information regarding what reverse mortgages are supposed to be and how this works in general so you can make a better decision. In this episode, I discuss and ask questions with a very well-know, trusted, friendly, and local reverse mortgage specialist, Kevin Kaltenbach.



GUEST: Kevin Kaltenbach, NMLS # 75462
President, Senior Financial Group, Inc.
Reverse Mortgage Specialist.
Email: [email protected]
Cell: (949) 910-0932

HOST: Tony Babarino, Realtor® DRE01717758
Re/Max Premier Realty, Irvine
https://www.TonyBabarino.com
https://www.Instagram.com/TonyBabarino
https://www.YouTube.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/
949-633-6741

08/16/2023

Video tour of 61 Sea Island Drive, Newport Beach CA, 92660. A $2,395,000 condo with 3 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, and 1 Den and is approximately 2,463 sq.ft.

"Experience modern living at its finest with this fully remodeled 2022 condo, providing a spacious layout and breathtaking panoramic views of the Big Canyon Golf Course from each level of the property. This condo, one of the largest in the complex, boasts 3 bedrooms, a den, and 4 full bathrooms. A convenient laundry area, equipped with an LG smart washer and dryer, is located on the upper level, making chores a breeze. Completely transformed with the latest smart home technology, the condo now includes a fully integrated Google Nest system. This advanced system offers seamless connectivity and control across the entire home, bringing convenience, comfort, and energy efficiency to your fingertips. Moreover, all-new HVAC, water heater, plumbing, and electrical systems have been installed, ensuring optimal comfort and peace of mind. The state-of-the-art kitchen is fitted with all-new LG smart appliances that can be operated remotely through Google Home, providing a blend of efficiency and modernity. A custom-built fireplace wall, media-ready with two built-in Sonos speakers, offers impeccable sound and a cozy ambiance. HOA installed the new roof in 2022 and new siding in 2020. New interior construction includes windows, and doors. Positioned conveniently near UCI, Fashion Island, renowned beaches, and John Wayne Airport, this condo provides a serene setting with quick and easy access to all the amenities Orange County has to offer."

*The above text is an excerpt from the full CRMLS description of Listing ID OC23086830. Information of home descriptions, details, and information taken from the property's listing in the CRMLS data base. Property for sale at the date of the original recording of this video


----------------------------------------------------
Listing Agent of this home:
Liping Xiong
DRE #02119776
Cell: (949)-880-6980
Email: [email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/Liping_93
WeChat: LipingXiong93
RED: LipingXiong93
JC Pacific Capital Inc.

Video Tour Hosted and produced by:
Tony Babarino
DRE #01717758
Cell: (949) 633-6741
Email: [email protected]
https://www.TonyBabarino.com
WeChat: TonyBabarino
https://www.instagram.com/tonybabarino/
https://www.tiktok.com/
Re/Max Premier Realty, Irvine (DRE00994662)

Camera Operator & Associate Producer:
Chris Jennemann, Loan Consultant
NMLS #453604
Loan Depot
(949) 678-9211
[email protected]
https://www.loandepot.com/cjennemann
Office: 17822 E. Seventeenth Street
Tustin, CA 92780

_____________________________________
Filmed and shared with permission by the listing agent Liping Xiong and seller.
------------------------------------------------------------

02/11/2023

How To Win as a Buyer in Today’s Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC]

In today’s housing market, you can still be the champion if you have the right team and strategy. To win as a buyer, you need to build your team, make strategic plays, consider what’s in and out of bounds, and stand out from the crowd. DM me to make your game-winning play.


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

Some Highlights In today’s housing market, you can still be the champion if you have the right team and strategy. To win as a buyer, you need to build your team, make strategic plays, consider what’s in and out of bounds, and stand out from the crowd.

02/09/2023

Why Today’s Housing Market Isn’t Headed for a Crash

67% of Americans say a housing market crash is imminent in the next three years. With all the talk in the media lately about shifts in the housing market, it makes sense why so many people feel this way. But there’s good news. Current data shows today’s market is nothing like it was before the housing crash in 2008.

>>Back Then, Mortgage Standards Were Less Strict
During the lead-up to the housing crisis, it was much easier to get a home loan than it is today. Banks were creating artificial demand by lowering lending standards and making it easy for just about anyone to qualify for a home loan or refinance an existing one.

Today, things are different, and purchasers face much higher standards from mortgage companies. Tighter lending standards have helped prevent a situation that could lead to a...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

67% of Americans say a housing market crash is imminent in the next three years. With all the talk in the media lately about shifts in the housing market, it makes sense why so many people feel this way. But there’s good news. Current data shows today’s market is nothing like it was before the h...

02/08/2023

Number of Homes for Sale Up from Last Year, but Below Pre-Pandemic Years

The biggest challenge in the housing market right now, and likely for years to come, is how few homes there are for sale compared to the number of people who want to buy. That’s why, if you’re thinking about selling your house, this is a great time to do so. Your house would be welcome in a market that has fewer homes for sale than it did in the years leading up to the pandemic.

According to the latest Monthly Housing Market Trends Report from realtor.com:

“There were 65.5% more homes for sale in January compared to the same time in 2022. This means that there were 248,000 more homes available to buy this past month compared to one year ago. While the number of homes for sale is increasing, it is still 43.2% lower than it was before the pandemic in 2017 to 2019. This means that there...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

The biggest challenge in the housing market right now, and likely for years to come, is how few homes there are for sale compared to the number of people who want to buy. That’s why, if you’re thinking about selling your house, this is a great time to do so. Your house would be welcome in a mark...

02/07/2023

How Experts Can Help Close the Gap in Today’s Homeownership Rate

As we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the past and present experiences of Black Americans. This includes the path toward investing in a home of their own. And while equitable access to housing has come a long way, homeownership can be a steeper climb for households of color.

We know it’s more challenging for some to buy a home because there’s still a measurable gap between the overall average U.S. homeownership rate and that of non-white groups. Today, the lowest homeownership rate persists in the Black community.

Homeownership is an essential piece for building household wealth that can be passed down to future generations. However, there are obstacles in the homebuying process that can negatively impact certain groups. This can delay or prevent many from achieving...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

As we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the past and present experiences of Black Americans. This includes the path toward investing in a home of their own. And while equitable access to housing has come a long way, homeownership can be a steeper climb for households of color. It’s an i...

02/06/2023

The Top Reasons for Selling Your House

Many of today’s homeowners bought or refinanced their homes during the pandemic when mortgage rates were at history-making lows. Since rates doubled in 2022, some of those homeowners put their plans to move on hold, not wanting to lose the low mortgage rate they have on their current house. And while today’s rates have started coming down from last year’s peak, they’re still higher than they were a couple of years ago.

Today, 93% of outstanding mortgages have a rate at or below 6%. That means a strong majority of homeowners with mortgages have a rate below what they’d get if they moved right now. But if you’re a homeowner in that position, remember that mortgage rates aren’t the only thing to consider when making a move. Your mortgage rate is important, but there are plenty of reasons you may still need or want...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

Many of today’s homeowners bought or refinanced their homes during the pandemic when mortgage rates were at history-making lows. Since rates doubled in 2022, some of those homeowners put their plans to move on hold, not wanting to lose the low mortgage rate they have on their current house. And wh...

02/04/2023

You May Not Need as Much as You Think for Your Down Payment [INFOGRAPHIC]

Many people believe you need to put down 20% of the purchase price when you buy a home. But recent homebuyers actually put down far less on their purchase. And with programs like FHA loans, VA loans, and USDA loans, some qualified buyers are able to put down as little as 0-3.5%. DM me to make sure you have a trusted lender and can find out if you’re ready to buy a home sooner rather than later.


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

Some Highlights Many people believe you need to put down 20% of the purchase price when you buy a home. But recent homebuyers actually put down far less on their purchase. And with programs like FHA loans, VA loans, and USDA loans, some qualified buyers are able to put down as little as 0-3.5%.

02/02/2023

Experts Forecast a Turnaround in the Housing Market in 2023

The housing market has gone through a lot of change recently, and much of that was a result of how quickly mortgage rates rose last year.

Now, as we move through 2023, there are signs things are finally going to turn around. Home price appreciation is slowing from the recent frenzy, mortgage rates are coming down, inflation is easing, and overall market activity is starting to pick up. All of that’s great news for the housing market this year. Here’s what experts are saying.

>>Cristian deRitis, Deputy Chief Economist, Moody’s Analytics:

“The current state of the housing market is that it is certainly in transition.”

>>Susan Wachter, Professor of Real Estate and Finance, University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School:

“Housing is going to ease up. I think 2023 will be a turnaround...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

The housing market has gone through a lot of change recently, and much of that was a result of how quickly mortgage rates rose last year.

02/01/2023

Should You Rent Your House or Sell It?

You may be thinking about using your current house as a short-term rental property instead of selling it. A short-term rental (STR) is typically offered as an alternative to a hotel, and they’re an investment that’s gained popularity in recent years. According to a Harris Poll survey, 28% of homeowners have considered using a rental service to temporarily rent out their home for additional income.

Owning a short-term rental can be a tempting idea, but you may find the reality of being responsible for one difficult to take on. Here are some of the challenges you could face if you rent out your house instead of selling it.

>>A Short-Term Rental Comes with Responsibilities

Successfully owning and renting a house takes work. Think through your ability to make that commitment, especially if you plan to use a platform that advertises...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

If you’re a homeowner ready to make a move, you may be thinking about using your current house as a short-term rental property instead of selling it. A short-term rental (STR) is typically offered as an alternative to a hotel, and they’re an investment that’s gained popularity in recent years....

01/31/2023

Lower Mortgage Rates Are Bringing Buyers Back to the Market

As mortgage rates rose last year, activity in the housing market slowed down. Now, however, rates are beginning to come down—and buyers are starting to reenter the market.

So, if you’ve been planning to sell your house but you’re unsure if there will be anyone to buy it, this shift in the market could be your chance. Here’s what experts are saying.

>>Mike Fratantoni, SVP and Chief Economist, MBA:

“Mortgage rates are now at their lowest level since September 2022, and about a percentage point below the peak mortgage rate last fall. As we enter the beginning of the spring buying season, lower mortgage rates and more homes on the market will help affordability for first-time homebuyers.”

>>Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, National Association of Realtors (NAR):
“The upcoming months should see a...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

As mortgage rates rose last year, activity in the housing market slowed down. And as a result, homes started seeing fewer offers and stayed on the market longer. That meant some homeowners decided to press pause on selling.

01/30/2023

Where Will You Go If You Sell? You Have Options.

There are plenty of good reasons you might be ready to move. No matter your motivations, before you list your current house, you need to consider where you’ll go next.

>>The Benefits of Newly Built Homes

1. Build your dream home
If you build a home from the ground up, you’ll have the option to select the custom features you want, including appliances, finishes, landscaping, layout, and more.

2. Take advantage of builder concessions
A lot of home builders are working hard to sell their current inventory before they add more to their mix. That means many of them are offering concessions and are more willing to negotiate with buyers.

3. Minimize home repairs
Many builders offer a warranty, so you’ll have peace of mind on unlikely repairs. Plus, you won’t have as many little improvement projects to...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

There are plenty of good reasons you might be ready to move. No matter your motivations, before you list your current house, you need to consider where you’ll go next.

01/28/2023

Homeownership Builds Your Wealth over Time [INFOGRAPHIC]

If you’re thinking of buying a home this year, be sure to factor in the long-term benefits of homeownership. On average, nationwide home prices appreciated by 288.7% over the last 32 years. That means homeowners grow their net worth significantly in the long term. Homeownership wins over time. DM me so you can start your homebuying journey today.


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

Some Highlights If you’re thinking of buying a home this year, be sure to factor in the long-term benefits of homeownership. On average, nationwide, home prices appreciated by 288.7% over the last 32 years. That means homeowners grow their net worth significantly in the long term.

01/26/2023

Why It Makes Sense To Move Before Spring

Spring is usually the busiest season in the housing market. Many buyers wait until then to make their move, believing it’s the best time to find a home. However, that isn’t always the case when you factor in the competition you could face with other buyers at that time of year. If you’re ready to buy a home, here’s why it makes sense to move before the spring market picks up.

>>Spring Should Bring a Wave of Buyers to the Market

In most years, the housing market goes through predictable seasonal trends in activity. Winter is typically a quiet point in the year, while spring sees a surge of buyers begin their search. And experts project that this year will be no exception.

That means right now is a sweet spot if you’re in a good position to buy, before more buyers reappear. Affordability is beginning to improve, but...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

Spring is usually the busiest season in the housing market. Many buyers wait until then to make their move, believing it’s the best time to find a home. However, that isn’t always the case when you factor in the competition you could face with other buyers at that time of year. If you’re ready...

01/25/2023

Why You Shouldn’t Fear Today’s Foreclosure Headlines

If you’ve seen recent headlines about foreclosures surging in the housing market, you’re certainly not alone. There’s no doubt, the stories in the media can be pretty confusing right now. They may even make you think twice about buying a home for fear that prices could crash. The reality is, the data shows a foreclosure crisis is not where the market is headed, and understanding what that really means is mission critical if you want to know the truth about what’s happening today.

According to data from ATTOM, foreclosure filings are up 115% from 2021, but down 34% from 2019. While the number of foreclosure filings did more than double last year, we need to remember why that happened and how it compares to more normal, pre-pandemic years in the market. Thanks to the forbearance program and other...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

If you’ve seen recent headlines about foreclosures surging in the housing market, you’re certainly not alone. There’s no doubt, the stories in the media can be pretty confusing right now. They may even make you think twice about buying a home for fear that prices could crash. The reality is, t...

01/24/2023

The 3 Factors That Affect Home Affordability

If you’ve been following the housing market over the last couple of years, you’ve likely heard about growing affordability challenges. But according to experts, the key factors that determine housing affordability are projected to improve this year.
The three measures used to establish home affordability are home prices, mortgage rates, and wages. Here’s a closer look at each one.

>>1. Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates shot up to over 7% last year, causing many buyers to put their plans on hold. But things are looking different today as rates are starting to come down. Even a small change in rates can impact your purchasing power.

If 7% rates paused your homebuying plans last year, this could be the opportunity you need to get back in the game.

>>2. Home Prices

The second factor at play is home prices. Home prices have...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

If you’ve been following the housing market over the last couple of years, you’ve likely heard about growing affordability challenges. But according to experts, the key factors that determine housing affordability are projected to improve this year. Selma Hepp, Executive, Deputy Chief Economist ...

01/23/2023

Want To Sell Your House? Price It Right.

Last year, the housing market slowed down in response to higher mortgage rates, and that had an impact on home prices. If you’re thinking of selling your house soon, that means you’ll want to adjust your expectations accordingly. As realtor.com explains:

“. . . some of the more prominent pandemic trends have changed, so sellers might wish to adjust accordingly to get the best deal possible.”

In a more moderate market, how you price your house will make a big difference to not only your bottom line, but to how quickly your house could sell. And the reality is, homes priced right are still selling in today’s market.

Especially today, your asking price sends a message to potential buyers.

If it’s priced too low, you may leave money on the table or discourage buyers who may see a lower-than-expected price tag and...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

Last year, the housing market slowed down in response to higher mortgage rates, and that had an impact on home prices. If you’re thinking of selling your house soon, that means you’ll want to adjust your expectations accordingly. As realtor.com explains:

01/22/2023

A Majority of Consumers Say It’s a Good Time To Sell Your House

If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling your house, you’re probably looking for the best time to make your move. That means you’re likely balancing a number of factors, like your changing needs, where you’ll go when you sell, and today’s mortgage rates in order to time it just right. According to recent data, that sweet spot could already be here. The latest Home Purchase Sentiment Index by Fannie Mae finds 76% of consumers believe now is a good time to sell. In fact, survey respondents think it’s an even better time to sell a house today than they did in 2019, which was a strong year for the housing market. The latest survey results indicate one of the strongest peaks in seller sentiment in nearly three years. One reason so many people think it’s a good time to sell is because...


Let’s talk about selling or buying needs!

If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling your house, you’re probably looking for the best time to make your move. That means you’re likely balancing a number of factors, like your changing needs, where you’ll go when you sell, and today’s mortgage rates in order to time it just right.