Newest first
All Taxes articles
Property Taxes Fund More Than Homes -Schools, Roads, Fire Departments & MoreEver wonder exactly where your San Diego property tax dollars go? From funding elite North County schools to maintaining local…
Unlock the Power of Your Home Equity: How Boomers Are Cashing In and Why You Can TooThis article is designed to attract homeowners — especially those over 50 — who have built up significant equity and are…
If you’re looking for a real estate agent in San Diego county and surrounding areas look no further“Looking for more than just a real estate agent? Meet Brad and Karen Mattonen. We believe in relentless advocacy, straight talk,…
California Inherited Homes Account for 20% of TransfersInherited properties now account for 1 in 5 home transfers in California. As the ‘Silver Tsunami’ hits the real estate market,…
New Proposal May Exclude $1M Capital GainsCould a new tax proposal double the primary home capital gains exclusion to $1 million? Brad & Karen Mattonen break down how this…
Understanding the 1031 Exchange: A Powerful Tool for Property OwnersA 1031 exchange allows property owners to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting into another investment property. This…
5 things you need to know about getting a mortgage if you’re self-employedSelf-employed buyers face a very different mortgage process than W-2 employees. Understanding how lenders calculate income,…
Lazerson’s 2026 mortgage and housing predictionsExplore expert predictions for mortgage rates and the housing market in 2026 with insights from Lazerson. Understand how interest…
2026 Real Estate Market Reality — Why This Balanced Market Means Opportunity for Buyers, Sellers & InvestorsThe 2026 San Diego real estate market is normalizing into balance: No crash in sight, with rising inventory, steady appreciation,…
Should You Buy a Home in 2026? Key Market Signals San Diego Buyers Must Watch Right NowIs 2026 a good time to buy a home? Discover key factors influencing the San Diego housing market, including pricing trends,…
San Diego Housing Market Forecast for 2026: Opportunities for Buyers in a Shifting LandscapeAs 2025 ends with mortgage rates around 6% and median prices near $1M-$1.05M, San Diego’s 2026 housing market forecast points to…
Found a Good Mortgage Rate? Lock It In!If you’ve secured a favorable mortgage rate, now is the time to lock it in before market conditions shift. Learn why rate locks…
Zero Down Payment and Down Payment Assistance Programs in California: A Guide for San Diego and Riverside CountiesDon’t let a lack of savings stop you from owning in San Diego County. Explore local and state programs that offer zero‑down or…Are New Rules Shaping California Housing?California’s housing rules are changing fast — from CEQA reform to zoning near transit. Discover the biggest new housing laws of…
How To Get the Best Mortgage RateHow to Get the Best Mortgage Rate Getting a great mortgage rate isn’t just luck — it’s a strategy. Here…How to Reduce Capital Gains Tax on Home Sale in 2025 | Brad & Karen MattonenMinimize the tax bite when you sell your home. Explore proven strategies to reduce capital gains taxes, from exemptions to smart…Why California’s Housing Market Expected to Surge This Q4Understand why California’s housing market could heat up this Q4. From improving inventory and lower rates to strong demand and…Is Housing Finally at a Turning Point?After years of volatility, is the housing market finally shifting? In this video, we explore the signs of a potential turning…
Your Advocates in San Diego Real Estate: Guiding You Through Every Step with Care and ExpertiseReal estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about trust. In this video, meet your San Diego advocates who guide you through…How Can Advisors Optimize Your Tax Planning?Smart tax planning isn’t just about saving money — it’s about having the right advisors who know how to make every dollar work…
California State Market UpdateWondering what’s happening in the California real estate market? Get the latest updates, trends, and insights to make smarter…
Zero Downpayment Home Buying in San Diego: Unlock Your Dream Home Today!Think you need a big down payment to buy a home in San Diego? Think again! Learn how zero downpayment programs can help you…
Buying a House really Wasn’t Easier Back Then: San Diego’s Affordability DecodedThis article breaks down the real math behind homeownership, comparing income-to-price ratios across decades to expose the truth:…
Great job and very responsiveAnother satisfied client, another successful real estate story. In this quick testimonial, our client shares how we delivered a…
Karen is superb at understanding not only what you want, but what you need. Talk to her and let her.Another real client, another real win. In this referral, our client shares how Karen didn’t just check boxes—she truly understood…
The Hidden Costs of Moving: Why Leaving California for “Cheaper” States May Not Save You MoneyThe Grass Isn’t Always Greener: Why California May Still Be the Smarter Long-Term Financial Choice For years, Americans have…How to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space This SummerAs summer rolls in with longer days and warmer nights, there’s no better time to transform your backyard, patio, or…California Renters Can Now Build Credit: Here’s HowVideo Description:For the first time, California renters—especially those in assisted housing—can build their credit by having…
Property tax exemptions San Diego residents may qualify forAre you a San Diego homeowner looking to reduce your property taxes? You may qualify for one or more property…The 100-Point Strategy to Sell Your San Diego Home for Maximum ValueSell your San Diego home fast and for top dollar with our proven 100-point marketing plan. From professional photography and…Millennial and Gen Z Home Trends: What’s Driving Their Real Estate ChoicesMillennial and Gen Z Home Trends: What’s Driving Their Real Estate Choices Millennials and Gen Z are reshaping the real…
California’s Housing Shortage: Three Decades of StrugglesCalifornia has been battling a severe housing shortage for over three decades, and the effects are being felt across the…
HUD Announces Permanent Mortgage Relief Options for HomeownersEffective Solutions for FHA Loan Borrowers to Stay in Their Homes The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)…
Navigating Insurance and Recovery After Wildfire LossesA comprehensive Guidance for Homeowners to Rebuild and Recover California law provides critical protections and resources for…
Why Adding a Family Member or Child to Title Is a Bad Idea (and What to Do Instead)The Perils of Adding Family to Your Deed: A Comprehensive Guide Adding a family member or child to the title…
Why We Became REALTORS® and Why You Should Choose OneWhat’s the Difference Between a REALTOR® and a Real Estate Agent? Why We Chose to Be Realtors—and Why You Should…
Opinion: How San Diego Residents Can Achieve the Dream of HomeownershipThe Hidden Path to Homeownership in San Diego: Why It’s More Attainable Than You Think – Beyond the Headlines: Your…Should You Rent or Sell Your Home This Winter? A Guide for Property OwnersWhen it comes to deciding whether to rent or sell your home during the winter, property owners face unique challenges…
Navigating Buyer Commission Concerns: We’ve Got Your Back and Are Here to Negotiate on your behalfUnlock Your Dream Home with Expert Guidance and No Hidden Costs Dear Valued Clients, We understand that recent discussions about…
How to Handle Multiple Heirs When Selling an Inherited PropertyNavigating Complex Family Dynamics in Estate Sales with Expert Guidance Inheriting a property can be both a blessing and a…Don’t Let Your Home Become a Burden: 5 Fast Solutions for Homeowners Facing Financial Challenges (We Can Help!)Need to Sell Your Home Fast? Explore Fast Home Selling Solutions in San Diego with Expert Guidance from HomesInSDCounty The…
San Diego Tackles Housing Affordability by Incentivizing ADUsIn this video, we explore how San Diego is addressing its housing affordability crisis by promoting the construction of Accessory…
Property Tax Postponement: A Lifeline for Eligible Homeowners for Years 24-25 TimelineWith the rising cost of living in California and the lingering effects of the pandemic, many homeowners find it increasingly…California Offers Property Tax Assistance to Eligible SeniorsNeed assistance with your residential property taxes? The State Controller’s Property Tax Postponement Program may be able to…
Sell Your Home Fast with ICash+ | Innovative Home Selling SolutionsMultiple CASH OFFERS, even at full market value 🧐 SAY WHAT?… You’re giving me a cash offer that pays me…How Do You Sell Your House for Cash? A Comprehensive GuideAre you wondering how do you sell your house for cash and looking for a reliable real estate website to…Property Insurance Market to Surpass $38T by 2031Discover how the property insurance market is projected to exceed $38 trillion by 2031. Learn about the key factors driving…
Unlocking Your IRA for a Home Purchase: A Comprehensive GuideEverything You Need to Know About Using Your IRA to Buy a House Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are designed as…
The NAR 2024 Settlement: A Double-Edged Sword for Buyers and Sellers in the Real Estate MarketUnveiling the Impact: A Comprehensive Analysis of Real Estate Dynamics The real estate landscape is undergoing significant…
Tax Time Perks for San Diego County Homeowners: Maximize Your Savings!Slash Your Tax Bill: Expert Tips for Homeowners in Paradise Being a homeowner in San Diego County is a dream…
Maximize Your Savings: Apply for the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax ExemptionSan Diego veterans, are you aware of the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption? This valuable program can significantly…
CalHFA ADU Grant Program: Affordable Housing Solutions and Sustainable Living OpportunitiesCalHFA allocated additional funding for the CalHFA ADU Grant ProgramCalHFA has secured additional funding for the CalHFA ADU…
Buying a Home: It’s Always the Right Time if You Can Afford ItNavigating the Housing Market: The Best Time to Buy and Sell The housing market is a dynamic landscape marked by…What is a 1031 Exchange?A 1031 exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, is a tax-deferred real estate transaction authorized by the Internal Revenue…
Protecting Your Interests: Understanding Your Real Estate Professional’s ResponsibilityThe Fiduciary Duties of Real Estate Agents Real estate transactions are complex and often involve substantial investments. To…
California’s “Stickiness”: Why Residents Choose to Stay in the Golden StateExploring the Factors Behind California’s Strong Resident Retention – Why There’s No California Exodus: The Allure of the Golden…
Unlocking Opportunity: San Diego’s Soaring Income and HomeownershipRevealing the Hidden Path to Homeownership: San Diego’s Dream may be more achievable than you think In the heart of…
Getting the Compensation You Deserve: Achieving Your WorthPinterest Everyone knows the potential perks of negotiating your salary, including higher pay and better benefits. But it can…
Real Estate Investing for Retirees: Self-Directed IRAs & REITsAs retirees seek to maximize their retirement savings and secure a stable income during their golden years, real estate…
How To Retire Early by Investing in Real EstateAre you dreaming of an early retirement? Want to escape the 9-to-5 grind and enjoy financial freedom? In this informative…
Why Would A Mortgage Be Denied After Pre ApprovalWhy Would a Mortgage Be Denied After Pre-Approval? (2023) In this informative video, we explore the common reasons why a…
2023 Moving Trends: Survey Reveals 75% of Americans Express Regrets About Their MovesA new report from Clever reveals that the majority of Americans have regrets about their moves in 2022. The report…
The Perils of Waiting to Buy: Understanding the Relationship Between Interest Rates and Home PricesIn the fast-paced world of real estate, timing can make or break a buyer’s dream of owning a home. It’s…
Don’t Miss Out on the Best Time to Buy a Home – Why it is Now!Buying a house is a big decision, and it’s important to weigh all of your options before making a commitment….
Effective Methods for Reducing Your House PaymentPrices on almost everything consumers use are inflating, without a corresponding increase in wages. This makes for tight budgets…
The FHFA Announces New FICO Score Models for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Loans: What Does It Mean for Borrowers?What you need to know about the FICO 10T and VantageScore 4.0 models and their potential Positive impact on homebuyers…
Essential Steps to Take Before Closing Your House: A Comprehensive Checklist – videoAre you getting ready to close on your new home? Don’t miss out on these crucial steps! This comprehensive checklist…
Concessions Sellers Should Consider Making in a Cooling Market – videoDiscover effective strategies for and concessions sellers may want to consider making in a cooling real estate market. Learn how…
Top IRS Audit Red Flags and Tax Deductions You’re Probably OverlookingI had a client email me the other day trying to figure out how to minimize their tax obligation…or “involuntary…
Real Estate Investment trusts – REITS. What are they? are they a good idea? videoReal estate investment trusts, or REITs, are companies that own and manage real estate properties such as shopping centers,…How to Secure Your Financial Health in RetirementRetirement is supposed to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but without proper preparation, it can become a time…
The Benefits and Drawbacks of 1031 Exchanges for Real Estate Investors in CaliforniaA 1031 exchange, also known as a like-kind exchange, is a tax-deferred transaction that allows investors to defer capital gains…
Title: Tips for Buying and Selling a Home Simultaneously – A Comprehensive GuideIf you’re looking to both buy and sell a home simultaneously, it can be a daunting and stressful task. However,…
The Downsides of Home Loan Modification: Factors to Consider –Home loan modification is a process where a homeowner works with their mortgage lender to change the terms of their…
Understanding Proposition 19: Changes to Property Tax Law in CaliforniaProp 19 in California: What You Need to Know Prop 19 allows eligible homeowners in California to transfer the taxable…
HomesinSDCounty was Ranked in the Top Real Estate Blogs in San Diego County -4Years RunningWe’re proud to share that Homesinsdcounty.com has been recognized by Feedspot as one of the Top 10 San Diego Real…
What to Do with Your Home When You Downsize: Tips for SeniorsDownsizing is a great way to simplify your life in your senior years. After moving into a smaller home, you’ll…
Protect Yourself – Your Source for Fighting and Reporting Real Estate, and Title Fraud in San Diego CountyThe San Diego County District Attorney’s Office is dedicated to the investigation and prosecution of real estate related crimes.…
Use the RealVitalize Program to Clean and Declutter before Selling your homeValue-boosting improvements. No upfront costs. We’ll source, schedule and cover the upfront costs of renovating, refreshing, and…
3 REI Acquisition Financing StrategiesWith prices falling all over the country, due to higher interest rates, the current recession and COVID overhang, Real Estate…
Did You know you can invest in Real Estate Using your IRA? Yes, you Can, using a Self-Directed IRAEver wish you could invest in real estate tax-free through your retirement accounts? You can. And it’s not that hard,…Is Money tight? Are you Potentially Struggling to make your mortgage payment?With an economy that is variously described as “teetering,” “worrisome” and “fragile,” many Americans are on the edge of panic….
When buying and owning a home will—and won’t—help you build financial equityUnderstand when you will—and won’t—build home equity At some point, someone has probably told you that if you rent, you’re…
REALTOR vs Agent should I care? What’s the difference? VideoWell let’s start with What is a REALTOR®? All real estate licensees are not the same. Only real estate licensees…
Avoid Being a Victim Of Elder Fraud Abuse By Following these TipsOne of our clients recently informed us that his 81-year-old father, who we’ll call “Anthony” (not his real name), had…
Your Home’s Title Is “Tax Ugly!” What You Need To Know & Do To Title Your Community Property Home For Tax Efficiency –During our proprietary “Critical Actions Roadmap™ – Discovery Meeting” with new clients, I raised the question about how their…
Less Taxes and More Income for the Greater GoodIn 2019, we were hired by a lovely couple to advise them on the investment of assets and updating of…Rising interest rates and how they impact the home saleIt’s May and the Fed recently held their latest pow-wow. When they met in March, they raised “… the federal…Free downloads
Free guides for buyers and sellers
Checklists, playbooks and plain-English guides you can download in seconds.
SellersThe 100-Point Selling Plan
BuyersThe Ultimate Homebuyer’s Guide
SellersProp 19 Tax Savings Guide
HomeownersAvoid Foreclosure
BuyersSan Diego Relocation Checklist
SellersA Downsizing Guide
Thinking of selling?
Get your home valueWhat is your San Diego County home worth?
Start with an instant estimate, then get a personal analysis from Brad & Karen within 24 hours.