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Insights
The questions I hear every week from buyers, sellers and homeowners across Northern California, from Santa Clara County to Placer County, answered honestly. If you want the step-by-step version of buying or selling, start with the Guide.
Buying
Buying a New-Construction Home? 7 Things to Know Before You Visit the Model
The friendly sales agent at a new community works for the builder. Here are seven things East Bay and Central Valley buyers should know before they sign anything.
Buying
Condo vs. Townhouse in Fremont and the East Bay: What's Really the Difference?
In California, "townhouse" describes a style, not what you own. Here is how condos and townhomes differ on ownership, insurance, financing and HOA costs.
Selling
Transfer Tax When Selling a Home in Fremont, Newark, Union City or Hayward
On a $1.2 million home, transfer tax is about $1,320 in Fremont but about $11,520 in Hayward. Here is what each East Bay city charges and how to plan for it.
Buying
How to Estimate Property Tax on a Home You Are Buying in Alameda County
Never use the seller's tax bill. Here is the simple formula, where to look up the official bill by address, and a worked example for Fremont, Newark, Union City and Hayward.
Owning
Supplemental Property Tax and Due Dates: What Every New Homeowner in California Should Know
Why you get an extra tax bill after buying, how it is calculated, when you might get one bill or two (or a refund), and the December 10 and April 10 deadlines.
Have a question I haven't covered? Ask me. If it helps you, it probably helps someone else too.
Insights are general information to help you think through your options. They aren't legal, tax or financial advice, and every situation is different. Visionary Estates · 44840 S Grimmer Blvd, Fremont, CA 94538 · CA DRE #01480904 · Equal Housing Opportunity.