Featured in a Comstock's Magazine article about how potential home buyers can expand their options...

I was featured this month in a Comstock's Magazine article about how potential home buyers can expand their options...It is no secret that our Sacramento real estate market is ever-changing, and we are approaching what is usually a really heated time of the year: spring. Buyers have surely been constrained by limited choices over the last year or so, and the increased interest rates definitely do not help affordability -- but there certainly are ways for buyers to win in this market. You can read the full article here.

The data from the National Association of Realtors reinforces the wealth-building potential of homeownership. With the median net worth of homeowners far exceeding that of renters, the benefits are clear. 

In the dynamic world of real estate, achieving the dream of homeownership can feel like an uphill battle, especially in Sacramento's competitive market. However, my nearly 19-years of experience as a Sacramento real estate agent has taught me valuable lessons on how potential homebuyers can broaden their search criteria to make their homeownership dreams a reality. 

I challenge the traditional notion that a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in a specific location is the only path to homeownership. I urge my clients to have open and honest conversations about their true needs and priorities, separating them from mere wants. 

One strategy I often encourage clients to think about are alternative property ownership models. I've seen firsthand how clients have successfully purchased duplexes or other multi-unit properties and shared the property, or opted for condo living over traditional homes with yards. These approaches can offer both affordability and lifestyle benefits. 

Sacramento's diverse micro markets present a wealth of opportunities for motivated homebuyers. By understanding local trends and price points, buyers can find creative ways to make homeownership possible, even in the face of challenges like increased interest rates and limited inventory. While external factors like interest rates and inventory levels may seem daunting, I emphasize the importance of focusing on what's within one's control. Prioritizing aspects such as income, education, credit score, and debt levels can significantly impact one's ability to secure a home.