Laura McCarthy Buyers Guide by Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty

Buyer’s Guide AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR FUTURE

A Trusted Partner Everyone wants their home to be a haven. Nothing makes me happier than the phone call that comes a month or two after clients have moved into their new home: “Laura, come see us! We love it here!” For me, that’s the sign of a journey well traveled. And the journey is often a challenging one.

Laura McCarthy Top Producer 2020–2023 Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty laura@laura-mccarthy.com 650.269.1609 Lic.# 01895605 LauraMcCarthyProperties.com

Education • Stanford University Certified Negotiator • Certified International Property Specialist Affiliations • Board Member-Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley • REALM Member by Invitation Recognition • Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Top Producer 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 • Top 1.5% Individuals by Sales Volume in the Nation, WSJ Real Trends 2021, 2022, 2023

As a real estate advisor, the people part of the business energizes me the most — I love surrounding myself with exceptional human beings. My clients are exceptional, as are the people that make up my extensive team of go-to resources: from lenders to landscape designers, and from architects to investment advisors. A career in the fastmoving fashion industry taught me that agility is helped most by careful preparation, and by having a deep bench of trusted resources. Aligning myself with Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty has expanded my network of resources. Not only do my clients benefit from the strength of a globallyrecognized brand, but they get the added benefit of a network of colleagues that are the best in the business, here in the Bay Area and across the globe. This truly is an international business: buyers come to our area from around the world, and my clients here have interests in far flung places. I take pleasure in serving as their global real estate advisor. I love finding hidden treasures for my clients — maybe that comes from my time in fashion as well, sourcing unusual materials or expert manufacturers. Now, it can mean combing the region for an elusive architectural style that’s just right, making the extra phone call to uncover an opportunity that wasn’t on the market, or reaching out overseas to discover what goes into the training of a professional butler. Whether I’m helping a CEO with a $20 million dollar listing or a first time home buyer just entering the market, my clients get my full attention and my best advice. Having moved to the Bay Area from the East Coast as an adult, I know what it’s like to go through a cross-country transition. And having lived here for over 30 years, raising two sons in Los Altos, I also know what it’s like to settle in and get comfortable in a wonderful place, and then to leave it. None of these changes are easy, but each comes with its own possibilities and opportunities. It’s a privilege to be a part of the journey. Our current haven is a legacy property that sits on 17 acres in Morgan Hill where we enjoy beautiful lake views and space to roam with our two energetic poodles. If it’s time for you to explore your next move, I’d love to talk.

A Trusted Brand The Sotheby’s International Realty® brand is recognizable worldwide and opens doors wherever you go. Whether you are placing an ad, hanging a sign, designing a web site, creating a brochure or handing out a business card, you have the opportunity to communicate the distinctive qualities that define the Sotheby’s International Realty brand. Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty has over 450 agents in 21 offices throughout the San Francisco Bay Area serving the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, and San Francisco.

Testimonials “It takes more than a pretty car to sell a home!

Laura McCarthy

The pre-market preparation managed by Laura was the key to the successful sale of our home; she mustering and scheduled an army of flooring specialists, interior painters, electricians, and carpenters, completing all the recommended improvements and upgrades in less than 30 days. It necessitated Laura’s network and skills to identify the pre-sale demands of a sophisticated Los Altos house buyer. Not surprisingly, we sold our home in a single weekend following the first open house (as an aside, doused in spring rain), for more than the asking price.

Lic.# 01895605

For us selecting a real estate agent to sell our home of 30 years in Los Altos was one of the most daunting, economic decisions that we had ever faced. In the process we vetted Laura McCarthy by contacting neighbors, friends, and real estate agents. Most importantly, we sought the satisfaction level of homeowners who had previously worked with Laura. Her accolades, described by many, were exemplary, out shined only by the way she conducted the sales process. We would highly recommend Laura for her market knowledge, professionalism, organizational skills and tenacity; Thanks Laura.”

LauraMcCarthyProperties.com

— John & Beby, Sellers

Top Producer 2020–2023 Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty laura@laura-mccarthy.com 650.269.1609

“Laura McCarthy has been an absolute delight to work with. My husband and I were both enamored by her charming demeanor, personality, and professionalism when we first met her. It was right then and there that we knew we had found the perfect agent for our upcoming transactions. We purchased our dream home in Los Altos Hills thanks to Laura and her expertise in the area and with the business. But we didn’t stop there – Laura sold our downtown Palo Alto home within just days and we now have our second home in Palo Alto being listed by her! That is three significant transactions in a matter of months. We are fully confident in her ability to rise to the top of this hot real estate market and we couldn’t imagine being represented by anyone else. She is a pleasure to interact with and she has a very large network of fellow top talent. If you want a classy pro who has a heart of gold, go with Laura McCarthy. We are so glad we did.” — Gilda & Mark, Buyers / Sellers

Testimonials

Laura McCarthy Top Producer 2020–2023 Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty

“I am a partner of an International Law Firm. I recently represented a client to acquire a property in Los Altos Hills, CA. We have the pleasure to work with Ms. Laura McCarthy who represented the client as real estate specialist. Her services are top class with the highest professional standards. She has taken the client’s interests as first priority and she works over time and during the weekend to cooperate with both sides. Thanks to Laura’s efforts, we have closed the acquisition on time with the clients’ full satisfaction. I will not hesitate to recommend Laura to friends and other clients if they are to buy a property in the Bay Area of San Francisco.” — Simon, Buyer

laura@laura-mccarthy.com 650.269.1609

“It was the first time my wife and I bought the property in USA. We knew Laura via Trulia. She is an experienced and patient agent and helped us a lot. After 3 months searching and selecting, we finally bought a townhouse at San Jose. She is the person whom we trust!”

Lic.# 01895605

— Victor, Buyer

LauraMcCarthyProperties.com

Education • Stanford University Certified Negotiator • Certified International Property Specialist

“I met Laura at one of her Open Houses in Palo Alto and we clicked right away! She has been an amazing resource on the local real estate market, who has gone above and beyond to help me find my new home.(including picking me up at work to look at properties on my lunch hour.) I’ve been impressed with her great communication, as she has kept me in the loop every step of the way, and was available to answer any of my questions or concerns, large and small. I’m happy to say, that with Laura’s professional and enthusiastic help, I will be picking up the keys to my new house this week! I’m a happy customer!” — Ellyn, Buyer

Affiliations • Board Member-Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley • REALM Member by Invitation Recognition • Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Top Producer 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 • Top 1.5% Individuals by Sales Volume in the Nation, WSJ Real Trends 2021, 2022, 2023

“Thank you for helping us with our first home! It was quite a whirlwind with the various multiple offer scenarios (what slow economy?). What we especially appreciated was the preplanning that you did before each home viewing outing. The trip routes were fully optimized hence time-efficient, and the MLS summary printout was handy. Your service was professional, email responses prompt and we had your undivided attention during each home viewing trip (no other clients’ phone calls, etc). We are settling down alright, happy to have a place to call our own. Liking the neighborhood and nature trail nearby. May need your magic touch for the housewarming!” — Pamela & Edward, Buyers

Testimonials

Laura McCarthy Top Producer 2020–2023 Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty laura@laura-mccarthy.com 650.269.1609 Lic.# 01895605 LauraMcCarthyProperties.com

“Laura McCarthy was our realtor when we sold our Los Altos Hills home. We had lived in the house for 16 years and had performed a significant remodel to the house and grounds. We chose Laura to represent us because we knew her personally through our daughter’s school functions. Only through Laura’s diligence and extra efforts did the right buyers end up connecting with the right house. The negotiation process also turned out to be a win/win for everyone. If we had it to do over, we would select Laura again. She’s driven, dynamic, well networked, and managed every detail of the process with our best interests in mind. We would highly recommend Laura to anyone…period.” — Randy & Donna, Buyers / Sellers “Laura is amazing. She is patient, kind and was always immediately available to go see a house or get additional information as soon as we indicated interest in a home. We had very specific needs for a home and she would tell us beforehand if she thought a certain home wasn’t a right fit for us. Her focus was getting our family into the right house for us, not just making a sale. She is smart, incredibly knowledgeable about the area and the housing market trends. She keeps you informed and is on top of houses before they are on sale/rent. She does all of this while being incredibly warm, personable and just an absolute joy to be around. She found us our house in the Hills while we were out of town, did all the leg work and had everything lined up for us and ready to go in a matter of days! We were so fortunate to work with Laura and are so grateful to her for all of her help. We would highly recommend her.” — SB, Buyer

2023 Listings and Sales Date 11/27/23 10/27/23 10/27/23 9/25/23 7/25/23 6/20/23 5/16/23 3/29/23 4/5/23 3/27/23 3/24/23 2/24/23

Address 78 Shearer Drive, Atherton 1250 San Juntas Way, Walnut Creek 16363 Ridgecrest Ave. Monte Sereno 7757 Timber Rose Way, Roseville 2500 Salinas Road, San Juan Bautista 3778 Manila Avenue, Oakland 125 Patterson Street, #106, San Jose 69-180 Waikoloa Beach Dr #N-22, Waikoloa, HI 39139 Argonaut Way 104, Fremont 15171 Stratford Drive, San Jose 1005 Mountain Home Road, Woodside 7194 Via Vico, San Jose

* Off Market Listing

Price $16,800,000 $384,700 $11,800,000 $500,000 $3,300,000 $666,976 $566,000 $975,000 $4,314,000 $1,520,000 $23,650,000 $1,400,000

Represented Seller Seller Buyer Seller Seller Seller Seller Buyer Seller Seller Buyer Seller

Notes Preemptive offer Habitat for Humanity Referral Habitat for Humanity Referral Referral Habitat for Humanity Off-Market

2022–2020 Listings and Sales Date 11/22/22 11/9/22 9/13/22 7/20/22 6/27/22 6/24/22 5/10/22 5/2/22 4/20/22 3/28/22 4/8/22 3/30/22 3/21/22 3/18/22 2/17/22

Address 1061 Golden Way, Los Altos, CA 94024 55 Murray Court, Redwood City, CA 94061 2225 Willester Ave, San Jose, CA 95124 1455 Arbor Ave, Los Altos, CA 94024 810 Fieldstone Ct., Folsom CA 95630 1448 Portofino Dr. Vista, CA 92081 6750 NW 16th St., Margate, FL 33063 6623 Barnsdale Court, San Jose, CA 95120 1155 Yarwood Court, San Jose, CA 95128 3555 Old Mountain View Drive, Lafayette, CA 94549 549 Sleeper Ave, Mountain View, CA 94040 1714 Manitou Ct, San Jose, CA 95120 134 Ohlone Ct, Los Gatos, CA 95032 212 Miro Ave, Mountain View, CA 94041 1014 Iris Street, Redwood City, CA 94061

Price $3,800,000 $1,200,000 $1,378,000 $4,700,000 $1,500,000 $970,000 $350,000 $2,500,000 $536,000 2,300,000 $4,800,000 $2,420,000 $3,350,000 $1,725,000 $1,993,250

Represented Seller Seller Seller Buyer Buyer Buyer Seller Seller Seller Buyer Seller Buyer Buyer Seller Seller

11/18/21 10/22/21 11/18/21 10/18/21 9/2/21 8/23/21 8/19/21 6/11/21 6/7/21 4/20/21 4/12/21 3/15/21 2/19/21 2/12/21 3/19/21

1333 Laurel St, Menlo Park, CA 94025 1441 Bonnie Court, Redwood City, CA 94061 10540 E Zayante Road, Felton, CA 95018 3311 South Court, Palo Alto, CA 94306 212 Hockney Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94041 14208 Oasis Cove Blvd #303, Windermere FL 34786 388 Circuit Way, Mountain View, CA 94043 2783 Ori Avenue, San Jose, CA 95128 355 San Antonio Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306 3165 Louis Road, Palo Alto, CA 94303 1204-1212 Reese Street, Redwood City, CA 94061 27650 Edgerton Road, Los Altos HIlls, CA 94022 1072 Wallin Court, Cupertino, CA 95014 384 Coyote Creek Circle, San Jose, CA 95116 696 Sacramento Way, Hollister, CA 95023

$2,850,000 $2,800,000 $550,000 $3,257,000 $1,660,000 $289,000 $1,650,000 $1,920,000 $3,650,000 $3,600,000 $1,570,000 $4,410,000 $2,925,000 $538,000 $691,000

Buyer Buyer Buyer Seller Seller Buyer Seller Buyer Buyer Seller Seller Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer

12/15/20 10/6/20 9/29/20 5/1/20 4/25/20 3/9/20 3/6/20 7/31/20

1310 Montclaire Way, Los Altos, CA 94024 * 174 Vista Verde Way, Portola Valley, CA 94028 1252 Coolidge Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125 689 Robin Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95050 15775 Uvas Road, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 27319 Julietta Lane, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 125 Patterson Street Unit #106, San Jose, CA 95112 2683 Oak Road #226, Walnut Creek, CA 94597

$3,050,000 $3,145,000 $3,389,000 $1,550,000 $965,000 $4,700,000 $510,000 $605,000

Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer

* Off Market Listing

2019–2015 Listings and Sales Date 6/3/19 5/24/19 5/17/19 5/26/19 2/27/19

Address 606 Arcadia Terrace Unit #201, Sunnyvale, CA 94085 873 Boardwalk Place, Redwood Shores, CA 94065 27827 Via Feliz, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 13936 Fremont Pines Lane, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 549 Sleeper Ave., Mountain View, CA 94040

Price $1,005,000 $1,100,000 $4,600,000 $8,798,800 3,215,000

Represented Buyer Seller Seller Seller Buyer

12/28/18 9/10/18 8/10/18 7/16/18 5/16/18

533 Yurok Circle, San Jose, CA 95123 11890 Brookridge Drive, Saratoga, CA 95070 1456 Stokes Street, San Jose, CA 95126 14060 Douglass Lane, Saratoga, CA 95070 79 Normandy Lane, Atherton, CA 94027

$928,000 $2,425,000 $980,000 $2,750,000 $3,750,000

Seller Buyer Seller Buyer Buyer

10/30/17 8/9/17 6/30/17 6/22/17 6/9/17 2/2/17

977 Warburton Street Unit #203, Santa Clara, CA 95050 120 Toyon Road, Atherton, CA 94027 1225 Vienna Drive Unit #969, Sunnyvale, CA 94089 1049 S Daniel Way, San Jose, CA 95128 2712 Broadway San Francisco, CA * 121 Cinnamon Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 *

$665,000 $9,375,000 $410,000 $1,200,000 $40,000,000 $723,990

Seller Buyer Buyer Seller Buyer Buyer

10/10/16 9/22/16 7/7/16 7/22/16 5/19/16 4/13/16 4/13/16 3/22/16

30 Belbrook Way, Atherton, CA 94027 1220 Tasman Drive Unit #92, Sunnyvale, CA 94089 10 Harrison Way, Menlo Park, CA 94025 533 Yurok Circle, San Jose, CA 95123 202 Central Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94043 11499 Summit Wood Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 540 Valencia Drive, Los Altos, CA 94022 301 Cypress Point Drive, Mountain View, CA 94043

$21,980,000 $229,900 $1,899,000 $730,000 $990,000 $3,240,000 $3,275,000 $1,300,000

Buyer Buyer Buyer Buyer Seller Seller Seller Seller

12/30/15 12/1/15 8/13/15 8/5/15 6/5/15 5/22/15 5/13/15

3901 Lick Mill Blvd Unit #106, Santa Clara, CA 95054 6505 Kingsland Court, San Jose, CA 95120 2381 Northgrove Lane, San Jose, CA 95133 250 Yerba Santa Avenue, Los Altos 94022 1828 Fordham Way, Mountain View, CA 94040 237 Cypress Point Drive, Mountain View, CA 94043 2460 Michele Jean Way, Santa Clara, CA 95050

$560,000 $1,085,000 $465,820 $3,055,000 $2,358,000 $1,028,000 $860,000

Buyer Buyer Buyer Seller Buyer Buyer Buyer

* Off Market Listing

Listings and Sales

San Francisco | Rep. Buyer Offered at $40,000,000 | SOLD

30 Belbrook Way, Atherton | Rep. Buyer Offered at $21,980,000 | SOLD

13936 Fremont Pines, Los Altos Hills Offered at $8,798,800 | SOLD

120 Toyon Road, Atherton Offered at $9,375,000 | SOLD

27319 Julietta Lane, Los Altos Hills | Rep. Buyer Offered at $4,700,000 | SOLD

27827 Via Feliz, Los Altos Hills Offered at $4,600,000 | SOLD

Listings and Sales

79 Normandy Lane, Atherton | Rep. Buyer Offered at $3,750,000 | SOLD

549 Sleeper Ave, Mountain View | Rep. Buyer Offered at $3,250,000 | SOLD

540 Valencia Drive, Los Altos Offered at $3,275,000 | SOLD

11499 Summitwood Road, Los Altos Hills Offered at $3,275,000 | SOLD

12020 Greenhills Ct, Los Altos Hills | Rep. Buyer Offered at $3,120,000 | SOLD

250 Yerba Santa, Los Altos Offered at $3,055,000 | SOLD

Guiding You to a Successful Purchase Each homebuying journey is unique, just like our clients. The following is a list of some of the items that may be part of your home purchase process.

Initial Consultation An initial meeting is important to ensure that you get access to properties both on and off the market, as well as exclusive and coming soon listings. We want to help, prepare you to be able to write offers quickly in a competitive market when needed.

Property Selection & Refine Search • Property needs and wants, location, size, amenities, style • Purchase price range • Provide an overview of the current market dynamics and challenges • Refine Property Search Criteria - Worksheet • Setup Listing Alerts and Market Reports • Schedule Property Tours

Purchase Process with your Agent • Agency – Our agents can explain agency and discuss their role in Buyer Representation • Purchase Contracts – We can share sample contracts so you can familiarize yourself with the various options and terms • Buyer Representation – We can explain how Buyer’s Agent compensation works and will complete a contract to work together to secure your new home.

Financing Financing and good lender relationships are important. We can recommend a variety of loan officers who can help you be prepared to purchase your home. • Get prequalified and confirm price range • Complete the loan application • Obtain loan Pre-Approval subject to the property selection and appraisal • Provide any requested additional documentation

Property Tours Our agents view properties throughout the region, follow local market dynamics, and are here to assist you in assessing the value and condition of the properties you view. • Present off-market or pre-market listings as they arise. • Review list of potential properties from the MLS – discuss things that may not be readily apparent • Call agents to schedule and set up private showings • Map out and tour properties together • Recommend properties that may come up for viewing at Open Houses • Review the pros and cons of each home after the showing

Reviewing Disclosures One benefit of having a trusted real estate advisor is their familiarity with required disclosures, recommendations for inspectors, and experience with reviewing reports. • Your agent will request the Disclosure Package, Preliminary Title Report and other information from the listing agent • Discuss with your agent if you want to get any additional inspections or reports and determine the timeframe for needed contingencies • If the home is in an HOA, and the Seller has not provided the HOA docs, the agent can explain the typical timing of the process to receive and review the documents. • Recommend a Title and Escrow Company.

Write Competitive Offers When we locate a property that meets your needs, we can assist you in determining an offer price and terms, and negotiating on your behalf, to help you win the sale. What may not be evident at the outset is the added value of being represented by an agent with a trusted brand and a good reputation within the agent community when it is time for them to help their clients assess competing offers. • We can call the listing agent to get the best information possible about competing offers and sellers preferences regarding terms, and the timeline for offer submission. • We can review comparable sales, and discuss the price and terms that can best position your offer. • Our agents will prepare the offer with the relevant and required advisories and disclosures, and can submit the loan approval letter or proof of funds, with the offer. • Get signatures on all offer documents to provide a complete and compelling offer.

Presenting Offers Representing you in the best light can be helpful in securing the winning offer. I can ask to present the offer in person if requested. It is up to the Seller how they wish to receive offers. • Your agent can help you present the offer in person or by email in a timely manner • Notify the agent of the offer submission to ensure that they received it, and to find out the expected response time • Maintain communications and forward any counter-offers for review • Negotiate on your behalf and writing any addenda or subsequent counter-offers.

Opening Escrow Congratulations! This is just the start of the transaction process. Your agent will guide you through the requirements that are contained in your accepted offer. • Open escrow at the selected Title Company • Ensure you understand wire fraud concerns and that you communicate directly with your trusted Escrow Officer regarding any wiring, account or transfer information. • We will maintain a secure transaction file with all the ongoing required documentation and upload the Earnest Money Deposit receipt to the file

Physical and Other Inspections Contingencies There are numerous contingencies, and our agents will help you navigate through them. If you have an Inspection Contingency this will allow you to order further inspections and reports to get more information about the property. • Your agent can recommend or help you locate inspectors for all the inspections you want to undertake. • Call inspectors to check on their schedules, and setup inspection appointment times. • Each agent will complete an Agent Visual Inspection • Forward, review and file Inspection Reports • Communicate with your lender as requested • Assist the Appraiser with access to the home, and provide comps as needed • Provide resources for Homeowners Insurance and options – this is a critical step in the process given the current insurance climate • Assist you in making a Request for Repair if applicable • Remove any remaining contingencies

Complete the Closing Process • We can recommend Movers • Arrange for a final walkthrough of the property • Provide resources for a Home Warranty Policy • We can accompany you to the closing signing • Upon recording title, provide keys

Preparing to Buy Personal Checklist for Prioritizing Your Most Important Concerns In what areas are you interested in living? Are there specific neighborhoods you prefer? What is your price range? Is having a homeowners association important to you? Do you have a lender?

YES

Have you been pre-approved?

Do you need to complete your existing lease? Do you need to sell your current residence?

YES YES

YES

Lease end date

If yes, describe your home: What is your timeline for purchasing a new property? Do you prefer:

1-story

Multi-level

No preference

Preferred number of bedrooms:

Preferred number of bathrooms:

Preferred square footage:

1,000-1,500

2,501-3,000

Under 1,000

3,001-3,500

3,501-4,000

Which of the following are important in your new home? Fireplace

AC/Heating

Office

1,501-2,000 4,001-4,500

4,501+

Yard

New Construction

Children’s Area

Pool

Hardwood Floors

Which of the following are important to you about your new neighborhood? Parks

Shopping/Restaurants

Other things that are important:

Freeway/Transit

2,001-2,500

Private Schools

Garage

Easy Commute Public Schools

Why use Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty? Reasons to Work with a Professional Realtor®

With all of the information available to consumers today, it is tempting to consider representing yourself when buying a home. Here’s why working with a professional is the best choice you can make:

Expert Guidance in a Complex Market The Bay Area real estate market is exceedingly complex and factors affecting the market change daily. An experienced professional should be your guide, using their in-depth knowledge of area communities, current and past market conditions and indicators to assist you in numerous ways. Your Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate can help expedite your search, identify the neighborhoods and communities that best fit your lifestyle and meet your needs, negotiate the best possible deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes.

Expanded Search Power Sometimes properties are available but not actively advertised on the market or the MLS. Through their network, your Sales Associate will have knowledge of and access to these “off-market” listings not accessible on public search sites. Your Sales Associate will also have access to more detailed property information than what is publicly available and exclusive access to our global search portals and connections with local representatives worldwide.

Negotiation Prowess There are many factors to be considered when making an offer on a house in today’s swiftly moving market and your Sales Associate can help prepare you so that you are able to make decisions in a timely manner. A trusted professional, your Sales Associate will negotiate the details of an agreement to ensure that your best interests are protected before you are bound to complete the transaction.

Your Real Estate Professional Should Be: •

A Realtor®. Members of the National Association of Realtors adhere to a higher level of standards in managing your transaction and a strict code of ethics based on professionalism and protection of the public. Their first obligation is to you, the client.

•

Knowledgeable about the communities of interest to you.

•

An effective communicator dedicated to keeping you educated and informed throughout the entire buying process.

•

Aware of the complicated local and state requirements affecting your transaction.

•

Able to direct you to helpful lenders that assist you with getting the financing you need.

•

An expert negotiator. Effective in multi-party, written and face-to-face negotiations.

•

Respected by other agents in the real estate community.

•

Highly trained, with access to programs for continued learning and additional certifications.

•

Technology focused. Able to respond to you in a timely fashion and use current technology to expedite your purchase.

•

Supported by professional legal counsel.

Your Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate is an experienced professional backed by exceptional leadership and support teams, all dedicated to providing you with a peerless level of service.

Mutual Agreement Our decision to work together can be formalized in an agreement Seller Paid Commissions • Sellers complete a Listing Agreement that covers, among other things, the commission paid to the Listing Agent selling their home and most frequently includes a provision where the Seller can offer to pay the Buyer’s Agent a commission, which is then noted on the MLS • Buyers can also request that Sellers make up any difference in Broker Commission for the Buy Side as part of the offer to purchase which allows the commission to be incorporated into the final sale price and financed.

Having a written Representation Agreement allows me to: • Commit my time, expertise, resources, support staff and experience to find exactly what you are looking for • Make my best effort to find you the home to meet your needs • Incur all my car, phone, and administrative expenses • Search for Off-Market homes or Pocket Listings. • It also covers MLS listings that are below our company’s minimum fee for representation • It clarifies and expedites the offer process, removing the level of brokerage compensation as an impediment. It should be noted that commissions are not set by law and are negotiable. Each broker is entitled to set their fee schedule for services performed.

When to Buy? Reasons to Buy Now Determining if the time is right to buy a home is your first step in the home buying process. Here are some reasons to consider buying now rather than waiting for a future date.

Tax Savings & Equity Building The sooner you buy, the sooner you can start building equity in what is likely to be your greatest asset, and the sooner you can take advantage of the tax benefits of owning a home. Talk to your CPA or tax professional to understand your particular situation.

It’s the Right Time in Your Life Sometimes it’s just the right stage of life to make a move: you want social and educational continuity for your children; your financial circumstances have changed; you are empty nesters or retirees and are looking for more freedom, or maybe you have changed jobs.

Generally Rising Home Values Market timing is a risky practice and an approach we don’t recommend for the purchase of your primary residence. Over the long term, however, home values tend to rise. Just like the stock market, if you get in sooner rather than later, and hold on to your investment, it is likely to appreciate.

Lock in Interest Rates If you are financing your home purchase, locking in an interest rate now will give you more predictability for your household budget, and will be a long-term benefit if interest rates rise.

The Homebuying Process Initial Consultation •

• •

Determine your priorities and needs Review Agency and Representation to define the appropriate working relationship Discuss financing options

Finding the Right Home • • •

Sales professional shows you properties based on your criteria Evaluate each property with sales professional Choose the right home

Preparing an Offer • • • • • • •

Review seller’s property disclosures Review preliminary title report Contact listing agent with any buyer questions or disclosures Review comparable sales to determine offer price Review process of loan pre-approval; decide on financing Decide on other terms (inspections, possession date, personal property, etc.) Prepare earnest money deposit

Obtaining Financing • • • • •

Find a mortgage company Consult with a loan officer Pre-qualification Complete loan application Obtain loan pre-approval Provide requested documentation

• • •

Property appraisal Loan Processing Final loan approval

•

Reaching Seller Agreement • • •

Present your offer Negotiation of terms and possible counteroffers Agreed-upon sales contract with seller

Completing Settlement Process • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Deposit of earnest money Roof, termite and other inspections Review seller’s disclosures again Remove any remaining contingencies Arrange for homeowners insurance Arrange for home warranty Arrange for movers Final walk-through of property Provide balance of down payment and closing costs Sign documents Loan funding Recording of title Receive keys from sales professional Move in!

Financing Working With a Lender

Working With a Lender Will Help You: •

• • • •

Determine the price range that you can afford. Understand the different types of loans available and the types of programs you may qualify for (particularly if you are a first-time home buyer). Estimate the down payment and closing costs on a house you are interested in. Determine what your monthly housing payment will be. Get pre-approved so that your offer is more attractive to sellers.

Obtaining a Loan: The Application. All pertinent documentation is obtained, fees and down payments are discussed, and the borrower will receive a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and a Truth-in-Lending disclosure statement (TIL) itemizing the rates and associated costs for the loan. Loan Submission. Once all the necessary documentation is in, your completed file is submitted to a lender for approval. Loan Approval. Loan approval, or underwriting, requires that all documents have been submitted and generally takes 24 to 72 hours. All parties are notified of the approval and any loan conditions that must be satisfied before the loan can close. Closing. Once all parties have signed the loan documents, they are returned to the lender. If all the forms have been properly executed, the lender sends the loan funds by wire transfer. At this point, the borrower finishes the loan process and buys the house.

Mortgage Loan Checklist Be Prepared In order to expedite the mortgage loan process, please be sure you bring everything applicable on this list to your meeting:

Contracts Copy of Sales Contract (on the purchase of your new home) Copy of Sales Contract and certified copy of Closing Statement (on the sale of your present home)

Residence History Past 24 months of residence with complete addresses and dates If currently renting, landlord’s name and contact information

Employment History Employers for the past two years with complete addresses and dates W2 forms (most recent two years) Tax returns with all schedules (most recent two years) If self-employed, YTD profit and loss statement and current balance sheet If you have gaps in employment, be prepared to explain

Accounts Copies of most recent statements (3 months) for all loans and credit cards with current balances Copies of most recent bank statements (3 months) for all accounts, stock brokerages, mutual funds, IRAs, pensions, etc.

Current Real Estate Property addresses with estimated market values Outstanding loan balances (bring copy of recent loan statement) Amount of monthly payment Amount of monthly rental income (copy of rental agreements)

Personal Property Net cash value of your insurance Year, make and value of all vehicles Value of your furniture and personal property Value of any additional property used to procure loan

If Applicable Copy of divorce papers Certificate of eligibility & DD214 (for VA only) Copy of drivers license and Social Security Card (for FHA only)

Property Inspection Once Under Contract As part of the sales contract, you have the right to inspect the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural portions of the property along with any concerns that you have about anything that affects the property. In short, the property inspection is for things that you cannot see or things that require further investigation. The home insurance market is challenging these days and we advise that you seek insurance coverage before lifting your insurance contingency. We encourage you to meet the inspector at the end of the inspection so that they may point out any concerns about the property and also answer any questions that you have. They will give you an itemized report for your review. If repairs are needed, you can request that the seller make them in accordance with the provisions of the sales contract, or if they are unacceptable you may cancel the contract, provided contingencies have not been removed. Confer with your Sales Associate for additional details. Square Footage — The initial property measurement is for the purpose of marketing, may not be exact, and is not for loan valuation or other purposes. If exact square footage, or the property boundary, is a concern, the property should be independently measured or surveyed prior to the inspection deadline.

The Home Inspection Process Ratified Contract

Conduct Home Inspection

Repairs Needed

No Repairs Needed

Contract Continues

Repairs Requested

Seller Agrees to Perform Some or No Repairs

Seller Agrees to Perform All Repairs

Contract Continues

Negotiation of Repairs Begins

Buyer Rejects Seller’s Last Offer of Repairs

Contract Released

Buyer Accepts Seller’s Last Offer of Repairs

Contract Continues

Pre-Closing Buyer Checklist Understanding the Final Phase You have a right to do a “walk-through” on the property before closing. Please make advance arrangements. Prior to closing, we will both receive a copy of your Settlement Statement, which your Sales Associate can review with you. This will indicate the amount you will need to bring to closing. Bring certified funds to closing, in the form of wired funds or a cashier’s check, made payable to the title company. Usually we will have the correct figure the day before closing from the title company. Always work directly with the title company’s known contact information to avoid wire fraud. If jointly purchasing and one of you will not be at closing, we will need a power of attorney form signed. You may grant anyone you designate power of attorney to act as your agent at closing. If neither of you will be at the closing, you may be able to sign the closing documents in advance or arrangements can be made for a notary to come to you. Please bring your driver’s license to closing for identification, as you will be signing legal documents. Finalize Homeowners Insurance. You will need a certificate of your paid insurance premium at closing. Check with your lender to see if you are having your insurance escrowed and included in your mortgage payment. Please allow approximately one hour for closing. Notify applicable companies of your new address in order for accounts to be setup/transferred accordingly and to assure continued service.

Home Warranty & Insurance Protecting Your Investment

Fire and Hazard Insurance Once you have a home under contract, it is critical that you contact your insurance company right away to get a quote on insurance. You can request a Claims History Report from the seller as part of the due diligence documents in the contract, which will give you a 5 year history of any claims on the property.

Flood Insurance Many policyholders do not realize that basic homeowner’s insurance does not include protection from flood damage. Instead, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers flood insurance through a federal program. Flood insurance may be purchased as a separate policy. Be sure to have your insurance agent check to see if the property is in a flood zone.

Home Warranty As an additional benefit, some sellers provide a Home Protection Plan for the buyer. This coverage is good for one year on selected items, such as: central heating & air, interior plumbing and built-in appliances. If the home you choose does not have a Home Warranty, you can acquire the coverage yourself, ask your Sales Associate for more details.

Discover the Difference With Us Why Work With a Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Agent?

Best Local Agents Not everyone can be a Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty agent. Our agents have a welldeserved reputation for professionalism and service that keeps clients coming back. Unlike most local brokerages, we are a collaborative group, working together to share market knowledge, pricing and negotiation insight, and professional connections that help you in your property search and at the negotiating table.

Collaborative and Connected Network Our buyer clients have a huge advantage by being connected to a collaborative group of local agents. Agents at most brokerages operate individually without collaborating with others. Our agents meet weekly to share market knowledge, including off-market opportunities, recent sales that aren’t yet public, and stories of what’s happening in the market now. Beyond our local offices, our connections with 465 top agents in our 21 offices throughout the Bay Area, and with Sotheby’s International Realty® affiliates around the world, give us insight into broader market trends and potential opportunities, wherever you may be looking to buy.

Sotheby’s — An Iconic Brand Since 1744, Sotheby’s has sold their client’s most valuable treasures. The preeminent auction house expanded to create the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand is recognized globally for unmatched quality of service and expertise. The strength of the brand helps open doors adding credibility to your offer.

Passion, Experience & Reputation Experts Throughout the SF Bay Area and Around the World

Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty is one of the most prominent and influential real estate firms in the San Francisco Bay Area. With more than 465 agents in 21 offices serving the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma and San Francisco, we proudly represent all property types and price points.

WINE COUNTRY REGION NAPA

MARIN COUNTY REGION

EAST BAY REGION

SAN RAFAEL ROSS VALLEY

Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty associates are recognized as industry leaders with deep local knowledge, providing the same quality service at all market levels. When buying or selling a home in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, we are at your service.

STINSON BEACH

GREENBRAE MILL VALLEY BELVEDERE - TIBURON

LAFAYETTE BERKELEY

SAUSALITO

OAKLANDMONTCLAIRPIEDMONT

SAN FRANCISCO

DANVILLE

BURLINGAME SAN CARLOS

MENLO PARK WOODSIDE

LOS ALTOS

SILICON VALLEY REGION LOS GATOS

Reverential Heritage Embracing a Brand’s Powerful Influence Since the founding of the Sotheby’s Auction House in 1744, the Sotheby’s name has earned a renowned status as a marketer of the world’s most valuable and prestigious possessions. This reputation is built as much upon exceptional service to clients as on the notable art, antiques, jewelry and other holdings that pass through Sotheby’s offices around the world. In 1976, Sotheby’s recognized that the firm could serve its auction clients in a valuable new way with a complete package of estate disposition services. Founded on the same commitment to exceptional service that characterized the firm’s dealings for more than two centuries, the Sotheby’s International Realty® brand was born and soon became known around the world for the distinctive properties and clients’ it represents. Today, we continue that focus by employing our brand’s vision of artfully uniting extraordinary homes with extraordinary lives.

Distinguished Global Referral Network

26,000 Sales Associates 1,000+ Offices

81 Countries

All Working For You

Distinguished Connections The Network’s Worldwide Strength The Sotheby’s International Realty® brand was established to connect the finest real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. Today our network boasts more than 26,000 affiliated independent sales associates, located in over 1,000 offices, in 81 countries and territories worldwide, placing over 10,000 referrals every year. Our network members utilize innovation with relevant reach to assist clients’ in the most unique way. Helping our clients navigate the world of real estate is what truly helps set us apart. Another differentiator is our ability to connect buyers and sellers globally. Our referral system boasts hundreds of “connections” per month coming from two channels, realty and auction. With a dedicated liaison between the Sotheby’s Auction House and Sotheby’s International Realty, we are able to help unite thousands of buyers with the properties our network represents.