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Guides on selling, buying, relocating and owning property in East Contra Costa County, written by the Croskey Real Estate team.
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The 2026 roadmap for selling a Pittsburg home fast and for top dollar: pricing from real comps, prep, the new disclosure rules, photos, and the offer that actually closes.
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If your Pittsburg home is officially under contract, congratulations! That means you’ve accepted a buyer’s offer and you’re one big step closer to closing the deal. But don’t relax just yet. There’s still a journey ahead, and knowing what to expect can help you avoid unnecessary stress and delays. At Croskey Real Estate, we guide sellers…
The haunted house checklist, Croskey style: what California sellers must disclose, what changed on January 1, 2026, and what an inspection finds that a ghost story never will.
From Listing to Sold: Casey’s Successful Home Selling JourneyCasey’s Challenge: Navigating a Complex SaleWhen Casey reached out to Croskey Real Estate, she was feeling overwhelmed. She needed to sell her mother’s property, which was held in a Living Trust and had a reverse mortgage in place. With no prior real estate experience, let alone one…
5 Tips for First-Time Real Estate Investors: Why Choose Croskey Real Estate Are you thinking about stepping into the exciting world of real estate investing? It’s a thrilling venture that can offer substantial financial rewards. However, success requires preparation and the right guidance. Here are 5 essential tips for first-time investors, with reasons why Croskey…
Homeownership Made Easier: Busting Credit Myths for Your Dream Home Homeownership is a dream for many, but credit misconceptions can often be a roadblock. At Croskey Real Estate, we believe everyone deserves the chance to own a home. Let’s clear up some common credit myths to help you achieve your homeownership goals. Understanding Your Credit…
Are you considering selling your home? With the arrival of spring, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the bustling real estate market. The months of April, May, and June offer optimal conditions for sellers, with eager buyers on the lookout for their dream homes. If you’re ready to make a move, partnering…
Moving to a new state can be an exciting yet daunting experience, especially when leaving behind friends and loved ones. As someone who recently relocated from California to the Southwest region, including states like Arizona (AZ), Texas (TX), New Mexico (NM), or nearby areas, I understand the challenges of staying connected with friends who are…
As we usher in the New Year, why not embrace change with the prospect of a new home? Whether you’re seeking an upgrade, a cozy downsizing option, or venturing into homeownership for the first time, the dedicated team at Croskey Real Estate is ready to be your guiding force. Let’s turn your aspirations into…
‘Tis the season to find joy, embrace new beginnings, and make those real estate dreams come true! At Croskey Real Estate, we’re here to light up your path to home happiness this festive season. The holiday season is a time for warmth, joy, and creating beautiful memories in the comfort of your home. This…
Introduction:Are you a residential seller who’s been struggling to sell your property for a few months with another agency? It can be a frustrating experience, but don’t lose hope! At Croskey Real Estate, we understand that sometimes, a fresh approach and a new perspective can make all the difference in selling your home. When…
Introduction: In a rapidly changing real estate landscape, housing providers face numerous challenges in achieving their goals. The journey can be overwhelming, whether it’s selling a property at the right price, finding the perfect buyers, or efficiently managing a real estate portfolio. At Croskey Real Estate, we understand the complexities of the market and…
When you sell an investment property, you may have to pay capital gains taxes on the profit from the sale. However, there are a number of ways to defer capital gains taxes, with or without a 1031 exchange. 1031 Exchange: A 1031 exchange is a tax-deferred exchange of investment properties. This means that you can…
Insurance companies are increasingly pulling out of California for new fire insurance policies, citing the state’s high risk of wildfires. This could significantly impact the local economy, as homeowners and businesses will have to find alternative ways to protect themselves from financial loss. What does this mean for the local economy? The loss of insurance…
A combination 1031 exchange is a type of 1031 exchange that allows you to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of two or more properties. This is done by exchanging the properties for one or more replacement properties that are of equal or greater value. What are the Benefits of a Combination 1031 Exchange? There are several benefits to using a combination 1031 exchange. These include: Tax deferral: As mentioned…
The IRS calls the “complex spendthrift trust” that promises to defer capital gains an abusive scheme. What the law says, and the legal ways to defer or exclude the tax.
As a property owner, ensuring that your property is in good condition is crucial. It not only helps to maintain the value of your property but also ensures the safety of its occupants. A Property Condition Assessment (PCA) is an important step in assessing the condition of your property. When it comes to finding a…
Buying a home is a major life milestone, but it’s also one of the most significant financial decisions you will ever make. A home purchase can impact your finances for many years, so creating a financial plan before purchasing is essential. *It helps you determine what you Can Afford. Determining what you can afford is…
As a tenant, renting a property may seem the most accessible and convenient option. However, with the current state of the real estate market, there are several compelling reasons why tenants should consider purchasing their own homes. Here are six reasons why buying a home in this real estate market may be a smart move:…
Real estate investment can be a great way to build wealth and secure your financial future. However, investing in real estate can also be complex and challenging, especially for those new to the game. That’s why having an experienced realtor by your side is so important. In this post, we’ll explore why you should never…
Are you looking for a big change in 2023? Is California not what you need? Do you need a fresh start? Are you thinking of relocating to somewhere new and exciting? The process of relocating can be overwhelming. You’ll decide where to move, sell your home, rent or buy a new house, move all your…
Routine home maintenance prevents more significant issues later on. It is essential to take care of minor problems before they become big problems. The best way to maintain your house is to conduct a condition assessment regularly. You also want to have a plan if unforeseen circumstances arise. Regularly changing the air filter, checking your…
If so, it’s time to get ready. If you’re selling, now is the perfect time to choose the agent to represent you; gather all the documents you’ll need for a listing; fill out your disclosure forms; and ready your house for photos. Then your listing can be among the first to “go live” in the…
When your Pittsburg home is listed for sale, you’ll be getting showingrequests, either from your listing agent or from a showing servicethat your agent has employed. What should you do if a potential buyer knocks on your door, wantingto see the house without an appointment? You may be sorely tempted to let them in, but don’t….
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have announced a new refinance fee, effective September 1, and no one is happy about it. While the Federal Reserve is trying to help reduce the cost of buying or refinancing a home by buying $40 billion worth of mortgage-backed securities each month, Fannie and Freddie are increasing the cost…
If you got forbearance on your home mortgage loan you may be in good shape, or you may be stuck between the proverbial “rock and a hard place.” If your home loan is backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you can breathe easily. You won’t have to repay those missed payments until you…
Features to showcase when selling a Pittsburg home in 2020 Since the COVID-19 pandemic caused so many families to essentially not leave their homes for weeks on end, many people’s housing priorities have changed. Features that weren’t important last year may be very important now. In previous years, the most important features might have included:…
You know that before you present an offer on a house today, you need proof that you either have the funds or a mortgage loan pre-approval. In fact, in today’s “COVID world,” you may need to present such proof before even touring a Pittsburg home for sale. Do keep in mind that your mortgage loan…
Some homeowners who are refinancing to take advantage of today’s super low interest rates have gotten a pleasant surprise, an appraisal waiver. What is that? It’s the opportunity to refinance without going through the inconvenience or expense of a traditional appraisal. In its place, banks are using sophisticated computer programs to determine the market…
Yes, there is a shortage of listings in Pittsburg, CA, but… When there are more buyers searching than homes for sale, it’s called a seller’s market. That means sellers are not likely to make concessions or accept “bargain basement” prices for their homes. However, sometimes homeowners in a seller’s market make some very wrong assumptions….
Shopping on line for a home allows you to save time and avoid unnecessary home tours. You can narrow your choices to homes that have a floor plan, size, and amenities that fit your household and your lifestyle. It’s a good idea at a time when entering a stranger’s home might be a worrisome activity….
When you’re getting ready to purchase a Pittsburg, CA home, the first step(unless you have plenty of cash) is to become pre-approved for amortgage loan. Pre-approval gives you the confidence to make an offer, knowing thatyes, you can afford that house. It also gives the home sellerconfidence that yes, you can close the transaction. Some…
A 2018 survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors askedhome buyers about their primary concerns in purchasing a home. While most talked about the difficulty of finding the home they lovedat the price they could afford, another concern stood out as #2. Thiswas especially true for Millennials. That concern: Not knowing and understanding the…
When your house is on the market, the first thing both internet browsers and visitors see is the exterior. Visitors will get an overall impression from the curb. They’ll notice the lawn, the flowers, the shrubbery, the trees, and how allof them are maintained. They’ll also get a first impression of thehouse itself. And…
If you’re still renting your Pittsburg, CA home, it might be time to give buying some serious thought. Renting is the correct plan for you if: You plan to relocate within the next year or two.You want to be free to move if the mood strikes you.You really don’t want to be responsible for maintenance…
Homeowners across the country are adding to their incomes by renting a guest house or a room or two in their own homes to travelers. Some charge several hundred dollars per night for a fully-equipped guest house. That could go a long way toward paying off a mortgage, and even paying it off early. Before…
A couple of weeks ago I warned you that fewer mortgage loans were being granted this year, because credit score and down payment requirements have changed. Borrowers now need higher credit scores and more down payment. However, those aren’t the only issues facing would-be home buyers, or those who are seeking a refinance on…
When Grandma, or any other family member, wants to provide the funds for the down payment on your new Pittsburg, CA home, you’re a fortunate individual. However, you and Grandma have rules to follow. These rules come from two sources: Your mortgage lender and the Internal Revenue Service. First, your lender: The rules…
If you’ve just started looking, you’re probably concentrating onthe home you want: the size, the number of rooms, the yard, andperhaps the layout of the kitchen or the size of the closets. In other words, you’re looking at the house and lot themselves, andnot what’s around them. Before you focus on the house, however, there…
First time homebuyers, here in Pittsburg, CA and across the country, are often frustrated at not being able to afford the home of their dreams. They want a home just as nice as their parents own, forgetting that their parents probably had to jump a few lily pads to get there. What does that…
Home buyers who have been patiently waiting for the lock-down situation to end for the past few months are now coming into the market, ready to find new homes. They understand that due to the pandemic they must take precautionary measures and follow the rules when touring homes, but they’re willing to do so. In…
A couple of weeks ago I warned you that fewer mortgage loans were being granted this year, because credit score and down payment requirements have changed. Borrowers now need higher credit scores and more down payment. However, those aren’t the only issues facing would-be home buyers, or those who are seeking a refinance on…
While this month promises to be a wild ride concerning the Coronavirus, the state of the stock market, and social distancing, it’s good to step back and focus on some positive things. For instance, April is National Humor Month, and April 14 is International Moment of Laughter Day. The object of the day is to…
As you probably know, when you list your home, your agent will write a narrative about it to accompany the photos and statistical information in the Multiple Listing Service. This narrative accompanies the listing to dozens of Internet real estate portals where it can be found by prospective home buyers. You can help your agent…
Choosing the right agent to help you purchase a home is just as important as choosing the right agent to help you sell a home. When you’re serious about buying a Pittsburg CA home, interview buyer agents just as you would interview listing agents. You’re looking for someone specific, someone who is knowledgeable about…
Unless you’re moving to a new home within your current Pittsburg CA neighborhood, this transition can be both exciting and terrifying for your school-age children. In addition to leaving a home they just might love, they’re leaving their friends, their playgrounds, their school, their favorite neighbors, family members who lived nearby, everything they’re familiar…
For years, real estate agents and home stagers have advised clients to hide the pet beds, the food bowls, the toys, the litter box, etc. They wanted to erase all signs that a pet lived in the house. Of course they also wanted the pets out of the house for photo shoots and showings. Getting…
Twenty-five or thirty years ago, all real estate agents worked for theseller. The listing agent was in direct contact with the seller and performedmuch the same duties that listing agents perform today. However, theagents who brought buyers to view the house also worked for theseller. They were sub-agents, and the only duty they had toward…
Today, many agents are recommending a pre-listing home inspection, for a few good reasons. A pre-listing inspection: * Gives buyers an added level of confidence over and above the seller’s property condition report * Alerts sellers to problems that can or should be addressed prior to listing * Allows sellers to have repairs made less…
Larry’s Story Larry was approaching retirement, and had not saved up enough money to supplement his monthly income with his 401K and Social Security checks, but had plenty of equity in his home. He researched different states that were more affordable to maintain his current lifestyle. He decided Texas would be the best option. Larry…
The Marshalls Story Sean & Tameca Marshall have been living in California their entire lives. Landon works at a local refinery that is scheduled to close this year. Sean couldn’t find any local jobs that paid him what he was earning at the refinery (with all the overtime he wanted). The Marshalls realized they couldn’t…
Renee’s Story Renee has been wanting to move out of state for some time. She wanted to live closer to some of her family members living in Colorado. For work, Renee could just transfer to the new location rather easily; she was extremely stressed about where to start with her house. She knew she wanted…
You know that when you want your home to sell quickly and for top dollar, you need to fix-up, declutter, and clean everything until it sparkles. You may even want to stage the home. But that’s not all you need to do. The final step, which is the easiest, is to get out of your…
Whether you’re getting ready to buy or sell a home in Pittsburg, the agent you choose will play a significant role in both your success and your peace of mind during the transaction. One of the most common complaints real estate clients have about agents regards communication. * Their agents don’t return calls, emails, or…
If you plan to put your Pittsburg home on the market when the crisis has passed, make good use of this time at home. Use it to get ready to sell. You’ve heard that de-cluttering is important, so go through closets and shelves looking for things you haven’t worn or used in a year or…
Some Pittsburg homeowners who need or want to sell are holding off because they feel it is simply too risky at the moment. Some buyers are also waiting. But is it really too risky? Unless you’re at high risk, probably not, not as long as everyone takes proper precautions. In many states the current…
Right now buyers and sellers alike are frustrated. Real estate is moving slowly due to the restrictions imposed by social distancing. What that means is that while some homes will be sold now, when the current health threat has passed, we should see buyers flooding into the market. Instead of waiting until that happens, take…
When your income is halted or even delayed, paying all your bills on time can be impossible. Unemployment benefits help, but they never come close to your regular earnings. If you have a home mortgage and find yourself in a position of having to decide which bills to pay, the first thing you should do…
Before you make those important “Want, would like, and won’t accept” lists for your Pittsburg real estate agent, take some time to consider the home you’re living in right now. Think about everything, beginning with the neighborhood and the yard or building amenities. Most homes or places have a few features we love. They also…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xjnyDMdDXg&feature=youtu.be There are a lot of homes for sale out there in Contra Costa County that are million dollar listings and if you take a look at them, you’ll see outstanding videos and pictures and websites. They make these houses look absolutely amazing. The rooms look huge, and the pictures are bright and colorful. The…
Buying or selling a property is one of the most significant decisions you can make in your lifetime. That’s why finding the right real estate agent who can help you navigate the complex process and achieve your goals is essential. But what makes the best real estate agent? Here are some qualities to look for:…
Before you make those important “Want, would like, and won’t accept” lists for your Pittsburg real estate agent, take some time to consider the home you’re living in right now. Think about everything, beginning with the neighborhood and the yard or building amenities. Most homes or places have a few features we love. They also…
Home buyers in Pittsburg sometimes look at the cost of a home inspection as an unnecessary expense because, after all, the house will be appraised. Yes, it will, but an appraisal is not an inspection. An appraisal only reflects the appraiser’s opinion of the value of the house as compared to other homes in Pittsburg…
Before you begin your home search in Pittsburg, CA, consider your long-range plans. The first question to ask yourself is “How long do I plan to live in this house?” Your answer will hinge on other questions. For instance: Do I expect to be transferred to another city as I move up a corporate ladder?…
The Fair Isaac Corporation has announced that by the end of 2020 their new credit scoring method will be available for use by lenders. Reports are that about 40 million Americans will see their credit scores rise by 20 points or more, while another 40 million will see their scores drop by 20 points or…
Repairs to Make Before Selling Your Pittsburg, California Home When preparing to put a Pittsburg, California, home on the market, sellers should consider the condition of their home. Stepping back to look at the property as a potential buyer will help you recognize the items in your home that need attention in order to get…
If so, there’s a reason why. Your first impulse might be to blame your (city) real estate agent. While you could be correct, he or she might NOT be at fault. There are other reasons why a house doesn’t sell. It could be that the market is flooded with homes at the moment, although that’s…
Now that home prices have risen in most cities across the nation, homeowners are once again gaining equity, and that equity is like cash in a savings account. In fact, if prices continue to rise, it’s better than cash in a savings account, because it is appreciating at a far higher rate. It’s also…
Some might tell you that because your Pittsburg home will be newly constructed, you don’t need an inspection. But you do. The truth is, not every newly constructed house is well constructed. Some have corner-cutting defects while others have honest mistakes that can cause trouble later. A case in point is the story of an inspector…
Your yard’s appearance changes with the seasons. It can be breathtakingly beautiful in one season and simply ho-hum in another. But, if you need to move you can’t wait until the grass is green and all teh flowers are in bloom to go on the market. What you CAN do, however, is make it…
First, what is an open listing? This is an agreement by which a seller agrees to pay a set commission percentage to any broker who brings him or her an acceptable offer on the property offered for sale. It does not bind the seller to any one broker or agent, and generally does not…
In reference to Blog #3 “Saying Goodbye”, I discussed some ways to say goodbye and keep in touch with friends and family. Maybe the occasional digital meetings and text messages are just not enough. Your new place is awesome and you want to share that experience with them. Maybe plant the seed for them to…
How exciting that you made the decision to move to another state. Your future home is picked out, and your finances are aligned with your relocation plan. The next step is figuring out, “How do I move my stuff?” An easy answer would be to just hire movers (which can be costly), but there are…
In preparation for moving out of state there is important paper to be completed. You will want to have documents in order to prove residency in your new state. Some utility companies require your closing statement/ rental agreement (for your new home) to set up utilities in your name. There is certain documentation you will…
You officially made it! You’ve managed to work out all the details needed to move. There are boxes stacked up all around you. The furniture was just delivered. You sit on your new plush couch by the window. Taking a quick, but much needed, breather to gaze at your new environment. You start noticing things…
Moving away is difficult. It’s even harder moving long distance to another state. You have your regular routine duties to complete along with the tasks that come along with moving. Such as organizing, decluttering and packing up your belongings. You might have an overwhelming sensation that there are not enough hours in the day to…
Day to day life has changed for many of us in the past few months. If has changed for you, your housing needs may have changed as well. If you began tele-commuting, you and your employer may have decided that should be a permanent arrangement. But… that might mean that you’d like a dedicated office…
Just because the country is in turmoil over the Corona virus doesn’t mean you suddenly don’t need to buy or sell a home. So how can you protect yourself? You’ve heard all the precautions about hand-washing and using hand gels and wipes. Apply that to looking at homes or having your home shown. If you’re…
Mortgage interest rates have dropped to new lows, averaging 3.45% the first week of June. That’s wonderful news, but only for those who can qualify. Depending upon which reports you read, mortgage loan availability is somewhere between 16% and 25% less now than it was just a few months ago. Lenders are raising their…