February Newsletter

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February 2026

NEWSLETTER

WELCOME TO OUR

Monthly Newsletter Welcome to the latest edition of our Real Estate Insights Newsletter! As your dedicated real estate agent, my mission is to keep you informed and empowered with the most up-to-date information, trends, and opportunities in the housing market. Whether you're looking to buy your dream home, sell your current property, or simply keep abreast of the latest in real estate, you've come to the right place. Every issue, we'll delve into expert advice, market analysis, and valuable tips to navigate the complex world of real estate with confidence.

Thank you for joining our community of informed buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts.

Let's embark on this journey together, making informed decisions and turning real estate dreams into reality.

In this newsletter you will find: Latest listings, real estate news & local events. Keep on reading!

FEBRUARY EDITION

Local Events FEBRUARY

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Love Your Park Run @Riverwalk Park

Kids Sewing Class @The Studio

Free Tax Services @Child Support Services

8:30AM

3:30PM

10:00AM

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Fishing Derby @Riverwalk Park

Swan Lake Ballet @Fox Theater

Valentine’s Movie Night @Murray Family Farms

6:00AM

6:00PM

12:00PM

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20-22

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Clay Date Night @Tugye Inc.

Home & Garden Show @KC Fairgrounds

“Down For Love” Car Show@Stramler Park

3:00PM

10:00AM

10:00AM

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Harlem Globetrotters @Dignity Health Arena

Evening w/Beth Brookhart@KC Museum

Business Block Party @Shoppes at Seven Oaks

2:00PM

5:00PM

9:00AM

CLICK EACH EVENT FOR MORE DETAILS

Issue no.25

MONTHLY INSIGHT 5 Remodel Mistakes That Can Cost You Money Home improvements can absolutely help you sell faster and for more money. The key is choosing upgrades that buyers see as value, not as complications. Some remodel choices can unintentionally narrow your buyer pool, raise appraisal concerns, or create inspection red flags. When that happens, it often leads to fewer offers, longer days on market, or a lower sales price.

Below are five common remodel decisions that can hurt resale value, along with smarter alternatives that tend to protect your bottom line.

Converting the garage into a room A functional garage is a major selling feature for many buyers. It is not just about parking. It is storage, security, and practical space that helps a home feel usable. Conversions also raise questions about permitting, insulation, HVAC, and whether the square footage will be treated as true living area. A better approach is making the garage look clean and intentional, with organized storage, improved lighting, and a finished-looking floor. If additional space is truly needed, a properly permitted addition typically holds value better than an informal conversion.

Removing the only bathtub If a home has just one tub and it is removed, you may lose buyers who need or strongly prefer a bathtub.

Households with young children often want one, and even buyers without kids like having at least one tub for flexibility. A smarter update is replacing an outdated tub with a modern tub-shower combo, then improving the overall look with updated fixtures and a clean, neutral surround. If a walk-in shower is the goal, the most resale-friendly option is often adding one while still keeping at least one tub somewhere in the home.

Over-upgrading the kitchen beyond the neighborhood Buyers love kitchens that feel updated, but very high-end finishes do not always return what they cost. Overimproving can push the home’s price beyond what nearby comparable sales support, which can create appraisal issues and tougher negotiations. Instead of going ultra-luxury, focus on mid-range upgrades that deliver strong visual impact: refreshed or professionally painted cabinets, updated counters that fit the home’s price point, modern hardware, improved lighting, and a cohesive appliance set. Function matters as much as finishes, so prioritize layout, storage, and a clean, consistent look.

DIY work that is not permitted or does not meet code Unpermitted or poorly executed work can scare buyers, even when it looks fine at first glance. Concerns often surface during inspections, lender conditions, or insurance questions, and buyers may worry about hidden issues behind walls. That uncertainty can lead to repair demands or price reductions. The safer approach is using licensed professionals for major electrical, plumbing, gas, or structural work, pulling permits when required, and keeping receipts and documentation. If work has already been done without permits, it Laurie_McCarty is wise to talk through options before listing so there is a clear plan.

NEED TO CONTACT US?

Bold wallpaper or very trendy paint colors Highly specific design choices can backfire because they often feel like a project. Even if the look is stylish, many buyers calculate the time and cost to undo it. The easiest way to keep broad appeal is neutral paint and simple, cohesive finishes. Add personality through decor, art, lighting, and textiles that can be easily changed, allowing buyers to picture their own style in the space.

TheMcCartygroup/Laurie Mccarty

If you are considering renovations and want a plan that makes sense for your home and price range, call or text The McCarty Group at 661-665-SOLD.

Kern County Real Estate Review

Laurie McCarty TheMcCartyGroup 661.665.SOLD

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE NEWS

FEBRUARY EDITION

FEATURED LISTINGS $390,000

$650,000

$459,000

HUGE LOT

ADU

BAKERSFIELD

LEBEC

BAKERSFIELD

240 S REAL RD, 93309

6641 DIGIER RD, 93243

601 LAS ARENAS CT, 93314

3

2

2

3

$410,000

3

2

3

2.5

2

$499,900

$475,000

BAKERSFIELD

BAKERSFIELD

PINE MTN CLUB

12305 QUIET PASTURE DR, 93312

7116 JOLYNN ST, 93308

16425 HURON DR, 93222

NORRIS DISTRICT

4

2

2

4

2.5

2

MORE EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM

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2

Issue no.25

KEEPING IT “REALTOR” In this section of the newsletter we want to keep it REAL. Want to see your question answered? Email or send us a DM!

Q: “Do open houses actually help sell a home, or are they just marketing for the agent?”

Open houses can help sell a home, but they are not a magic trick, and they are not the right fit for every property. When they are used strategically, an open house is one more way to create exposure and make it easy for buyers to walk through without the hassle of coordinating a private showing. That matters most early on, because a listing gets its strongest attention in the first couple of weeks, and an open house can capture buyers who are touring multiple homes in one day, relocating, or coming in from out of town and trying to see as much as possible in a short window. It can also create a sense of excitement around the home, which sometimes nudges interested buyers to act sooner rather than later.

Now, I also want to be honest. An open house can generate leads for an agent, and that is where some sellers get skeptical. I understand that. But those two things can be true at the same time. A well-run open house should be about the home first, and it should support the overall marketing plan, not replace it. The real question is whether it fits your home and your goals. Homes in remote areas, gated communities, or other hardto-access locations are often better served by targeted private showings and strong online marketing instead. And even for a home that is a great fit, the open house has to be done right. When an open house makes sense, it should be promoted properly, executed professionally, and followed up with real feedback. If it is done that way, it is not just marketing. It is a tool to help your home sell.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO GET YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

FEBRUARY EDITION

CALLING ALL

INININVEVEVESTSTSTOR OR ORS!S!S! 18499 SHAFTER AVE | $395,000

0.74 ACRE LOT A high-visibility corner commercial lot with dual frontage, offering flexible zoning ideal for truck parking, auto services, neighborhood retail, or mixeduse development with excellent access and long-term investment potential.

205 SUZANNE LN | $250,000

4 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms This 4-bedroom, 3-bath split-wing home offers 1,650 sq. ft., a private block-wall yard, covered patio, and a great location near schools and Taft College—perfect for personalizing or investing.

4 TEE LN | $90,000

2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms Corner-lot home in the Highland Knolls 55+ community featuring spacious living areas, a well-connected kitchen, a private primary suite, indoor laundry with storage, and resort-style amenities.

WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM

Issue no.25

Local Expertise Trusted Insights

Hosted by Laurie McCarty

NEW SHOWS EVERY SATURDAY 11 AM TO 12 PM ENCORE EVERY SUNDAY 8 AM TO 9 AM

KNZR 97.7 FM | 1560 AM

OR WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS!

NEW HOMEOWNER CHECKLIST: 15 THINGS TO DO AFTER CLOSING

PORTABLE SOLAR WITH BRIGHT SAVER

MOVING OUT OF CALIFORNIA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU RELOCATE

WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A PUBLIC ADJUSTER WITH WAYPOINT ADJUSTING

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO HEAR MORE

FEBRUARY EDITION

FEBRUARY HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST Regular maintenance protects your biggest investment— your home! Be proactive now to avoid headaches later. As you check off each task below, you'll ensure your home stays in excellent condition year-round!

Clean and Inspect Dryer Vents: Remove lint from dryer vents and exhaust ducts to improve efficiency and reduce the risk of fire.

Service Your Water Heater: Flush out your water heater to remove sediment and ensure it’s running efficiently. You should be doing this annually!

Inspect Plumbing for Leaks: Check pipes under sinks and near water heaters for any signs of leaks or corrosion. Address issues promptly to avoid water damage.

Organize Your Home Office: With tax season approaching, declutter and organize your home office or filing system to prepare for gathering important documents.

REAL RESULTS, REAL CLIENTS LET US MAKE YOU OUR NEXT SUCCESS STORY

Keith needed to sell his Oleander home, but he was working outside the country. That alone can create a logistical nightmare for most sellers. But when he hired Laurie McCarty, distance was no obstacle. She and her team prepared the home, executed a strategic pricing plan, and launched a powerful marketing campaign that made the home stand out.

The results were remarkable. In a market where many homes struggle to get even one offer, Keith’s property brought in multiple offers within days and sold for $15,000 above list price—all without him ever having to return to Bakersfield.

CLICK TO READ MORE WWW.THEMCCARTYGROUP.COM

ISSUE NO.25

MEET THE TEAM At The McCarty Group, our success is driven by a dedicated team of experienced Realtors and skilled administrative staff. Each member plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service and expertise.

From guiding you through the buying and selling process to ensuring every detail is handled with care, our team is committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals.

Laurie McCarty | Owner & Realtor Connor McCarty | Realtor Bob McCarty | Field Services Specialist Bridgette Sanchez | Realtor Courtney Montoya | Marketing Coordinator Genevive Salgado | Listing Coordinator & Realtor Margaret Edmonston | Realtor Paige Marchant | Transaction Coordinator & Realtor Stephanie Llanes | Realtor Tishana Debenham | Office & Sales Manager Lauren Sefton | Marketing Manager & Realtor

THE MCCARTY GROUP SOLUTIONS

At The McCarty Group, we're committed to providing unparalleled service and innovative solutions to meet your real estate needs. Here are three exclusive programs we offer to meet your needs and provide peace of mind: Guaranteed Sold: We guarantee to sell your house by an agreed date and for an agreed amount.

If it doesn’t sell, we’ll buy it ourselves. You can rest assured knowing your home sale is in capable hands.

Improve to Move: Need to make some updates or repairs before listing your home? With our Improve to Move program, we recommend the best improvements and coordinate the work using our trusted network of contractors. We'll cover the costs upfront, and you can reimburse us at closing with no hidden fees or interest.

Love it or Leave it: We’re committed to finding you a home you truly love. If for any reason you fall out of love with your new home within the first 12 months, we’ll sell it for you, free of charge.

Your satisfaction is our top priority.

Take advantage of these unique options designed to make your real estate journey smooth and stress-free. Contact us today to learn more!

We want to thank you!

A huge thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey over the years. Your support has been the cornerstone of every milestone. If this is the year you're thinking of making a move, let's chat about how we can turn your real estate goals into reality!

-Laurie McCarty DRE:01090506 661.665.SOLD DRE:01100927

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO LEARN MORE