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.

This Week’s Crazy Building: Elbphilharmonie

Photo by Robert Katzki on Unsplash
Located in Hamburg, Germany, the Elbphilharmonie upcycles a former warehouse into a chic new space. Designed by Herzog & de Meuron architects it measures over 350 feet at the highest point. The unusual glass facade was built on top of an existing building. Originally, it was used as a warehouse to receive shipments such as
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When can you cancel a home purchase before closing?

Question: “My brother is buying a home in L.A. He’s a month into it and is supposed to close in March. Their agent just walked through the house and disclosed to him some issues he found. I don’t know what they are, but my brother is pretty freaked out and wants to cancel. Since this
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How do I get a good home loan rate?

Question: “We’re going to be buying a home in a couple of months and want to get our finances in order so we can get a good loan rate. What do you recommend?” Answer: Here are the Ten Commandments Of Getting A Home Loan: Thou shalt consult with a lender six months before getting a
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Will you match an agent who will list my home at a lower rate?

Question: “I’m talking with an agent who’ll list my home at 4%. She hasn’t sold that many homes and isn’t as successful as you are, but will you match her fee?” Answer: Do you mind if I ask you a few questions? It sounds like if I matched her fee, you’d have me sell your
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This Week’s Crazy Building: Cineteca Nacional

The Cineteca Nacional, located in Mexico City has a new futuristic look. It was revitalized in 2014 by Rojkind Arquitectos. They were originally hired to renovate and expand the space but ended up making several smart changes to more effectively utilize the area and better serve the people who use it. Originally the parking lot
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You’re invited to our latest Open House Extravaganza!

This Sunday, February 24th from 1pm-3pm. I hope to see you there!
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This Week’s Crazy Building: Casa da Musica

Porto, Portugal’s Casa da Musica steps away from the traditional concert hall. This angular space makes a striking change among its more traditional neighbors. Inside are a grand auditorium, a smaller performance space, rehearsal rooms, recording studios, restaurant, 600 space underground parking lot. On top, an opening creates a roof terrace lined with black and
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Can a tenant give a 30-day notice before their lease ends?

Question: “If a tenant has a lease, they can still give a 30 day notice to end the lease, can’t they?” Answer: No, they can’t. A lease agreement binds a landlord and tenant for a certain time period. Neither has the right to unilaterally end the lease early. If a tenant breaks a lease, my
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Can you give me an overview of things I should know when buying a home?

Question: “Last time we bought a home, the agent didn’t explain anything or give us any guidance. Can you give me an overview of things I should know?” Answer: There’s a lot to know, but here are some basics and smart tips not everyone thinks about: Upon acceptance: Get your deposit into escrow within 3
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Is selling my house to a flipper safe?

Question: “We may sell our house to a flipper who contacted us…” Answer: Be careful! A cautionary note about home flippers, aka investors who buy, fix, and resell homes… I deal with them regularly, and many follow a strategy of: Make a “cash” offer, often sight unseen. Get the offer accepted, “tying up” the home.
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