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real estate

5 Hidden Costs Of Buying A Home (And How To Avoid Them In The East Bay)

Key Takeaways You’ve got to factor in a ton of hidden costs beyond the asking price—transactional, repair, and ongoing, which can seriously blow open your overall budget. Be sure to figure in any potential transactional fees– appraisal fees, loan origination fees, title insurance, escrow charges, etc.– so you, too, don’t get caught off guard during […]

Sexton Real Estate Group | Jun 7, 2025

Berkeley VS. Oakland: Which East Bay City Is Right For Your First Home?

Key Takeaways You’ll discover that each – Berkeley vs. Oakland – has its benefits in pricing, neighborhood vibe, and inventory, so weighing your priorities and lifestyle needs is key prior to making a decision. You should keep an eye on the market trends, average prices, and inventory swings because these will affect your buying power […]

Sexton Real Estate Group | Jun 4, 2025

Are You Making These Common Financial Preparation Mistakes Before Buying a Home?

Avoiding these common financial preparation mistakes before buying a home will help save you from incurring unnecessary costs and slowing down the process. These are common missteps in financial preparation before becoming a homeowner. Checking your credit score, budgeting for closing costs, and accurately estimating ongoing expenses such as property taxes and maintenance are key […]

Sexton Real Estate Group | Apr 1, 2025

How Can Financial Preparation Make Home Buying Easier for First-Time Buyers?

By being financially prepared, first-time buyers can have a much smoother home buying experience by having less stress and making informed decisions. By understanding your budget, saving for a down payment, and securing pre-approval for a mortgage, you can confidently explore options within your price range. If you plan ahead, you’ll be able to manage […]

Sexton Real Estate Group | Mar 31, 2025

Why Home Financing Is the Key to Escaping the Rent Trap Forever

Securing home financing as a first-time buyer requires careful planning and research. Preparing early, exploring different options, and understanding key financial factors can make the process smoother and more manageable. Even if challenges arise, adopting smart financial habits and exploring different lenders can open up opportunities for approval. Paying attention to financial details and choosing […]

Sexton Real Estate Group | Feb 10, 2025