Licensed since 1984, San Diego real estate broker Gary Kent is a recognized authority on real estate. In addition to selling over 5,500 homes for clients, he has been an expert court witness, trainer of other agents, and he does seminars on home buying, home selling, and investing. Gary has sold homes for The Salvation Army, dozens of major banks, and Fannie Mae, amongst others. You can find Gary on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

When to Inspect When Buying a San Diego Short Sale

“I want to buy a short sale. Should I inspect now or when the short sale is approved?” Answer: Great question. Here are the two perspectives: 1. Save TIME / Inspect NOW It could be months before you know if the short sale is approved. Inspect now and find out what defects the home has
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Getting Positive Cash Flow on San Diego Properties

“Where can I buy and get a rental property and get positive cash flow?” Answer: Technically, the answer is ANYWHERE…if you’re willing to put enough money down. But I’m guessing that’s not the answer you’re looking for. If you buy smart, in some San Diego neighborhoods you can get a positive cashflow with 25-30% down.
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Stretching the 1031 Exchange’s ID Process

“Hello Gary… We’re interested in selling our investment properties. We like the 1031 exchange concept. However, we are scared off by the 45 day identification process.” Answer: I understand the hesitation due to the 45-day period you have from closing your sale to “identify” the property(s) you want to buy. While everyone has this same
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How to Choose a San Diego Real Estate Agent

“I’ve been interviewing agents to sell my mother’s home. After talking with five, I’ve come to the conclusion I really have no idea how to tell who I should hire. Help!” Answer: The best predictor of future performance is… …Past performance! Think of it this way: If you needed brain surgery, do you pick the
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The Downsides of “Buy and Bail”

“We’re very upside down on our home and are considering buying another home, then letting this one go. Any advice?” Answer: You’re talking about what we call “buy and bail.” As I’ve said before, it’s not my place to judge. If I was in your situation, who knows what I’d do. Some challenges and things
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Why San Diego Home Sales Fall Through

“Gary. My wife and I really enjoy your newsletter. Question- Why typically do home sales fall through? We’re curious for when we sell our home next year.” Answer: Based on my 26 years and 4,000+ home sales, here are the reasons home sales fall through, in approximate order: * Buyer gets cold feet or finds
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HOA Fees on Condos

“Perhaps you can help settle an argument. I want to buy a nice condo in a safe area, but my husband wants a house, even if it’s a little dump in a slummy area. He says he’d never buy a condo because they just keep jacking up the fees and the fees are a waste
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Don’t Sell Based on What You Paid

“I really need to sell my home in Clairemont and move on, I only owe $152,000 so I still have a lot of equity, but I won’t sell if it means losing money from what I paid…” Answer: I understand how you feel. Obviously no one likes to lose money. Here’s my blunt but honest
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Why You Shouldn’t Wait for the Open House

“Hi Gary, We’re starting to look for a house. We saw one that just came up for sale down our street and we’re waiting for the open house so we can see it. If we like it, can you help us buy it?” Answer: Yes, we can definitely help you purchase that (or any) home.
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Deeding a Home to Make it Easier to Sell

“My uncle is very sick and I’m his only heir. He’s deeding me his home now to make it easier for me to sell it after he’s gone. Of course he’ll stay there as long as he lives. Is there any downside to what we’re planning to do?” Answer: STOP! Do nothing until you consult
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