Kathleen Barnato's Discussions

Why use a Realtor?

Mark hit all the hot spots on why you should use a real estate agent in a transaction. However, your question was why use a Realtor.

A Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors. This is our Trademark designation. I suggest you take it further and use a Broker or Associate Broker rather than just a real estate agent. Both can be Realtors but a Broker/Associate Broker has more experience, and is able to run his/her own company if need be. An Associate Broker is one who holds a Broker's license but hangs that license with another firm, such as Prudential California Realty.

To become an Agent, one only needs to take 2 classes and pass a simple test. To become a Broker, which I am, takes many classes, and requires passing a most difficult test.

In addition, I recommend using a Realtor who is a Broker AND a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), a designation few Realtors hold. I am a CRS and in order to earn this designation, I had to be a Realtor for many years, and have many, many successfully closed transactions. Remember,
Experience is not expensive - it is priceless.

Kathleen Barnato, Realtor, Broker Associate and CRS

July 15 2007

I need advice for a first time home buyer!

First, when considering bargaining, you need to know value. This is where a real estate professional comes into play. A seller can ask whatever amount s/he wishes. The old adage to knock a certain percentage off the asking price just doesn't work - what if the seller has jacked up the asking price 25 or 30% over the true value of the home? On the other hand, what if the seller has priced it perfectly, for a quick sale? Do you really want to miss out on a good bargain, by bargaining more?
In comparing mortgages, it is a good idea to consider how long you wish to own the property, how much you can comfortably afford to pay monthly (including taxes, insurance, etc.) and whether you are more comfortable know exactly how much you will pay each month (a fixed amount) or whether you like to gamble a little, hoping rates will fluctuate downwards (variable rate loan.) A good lender should be able to quote you rates with several different scenarios.
Good luck. Kathleen Barnato

July 12 2007

• Santa Barbara
• Community News

Samarkand Neighborhood of Santa Barbara

Samarkand - The Land of Heart's Desire. Have you ever visited this quaint neighborhod close to downtown Santa Barbara? Developed in the early 20's by Earl Ovington, but mostly built out in the 30's, 40's and 50's, it is full of lovely custom homes on large lots. Most of Samarkand enjoys little light pollution because Mr. Ovington wanted all underground utilities (i.e., no street lights) so that there would be no light competition with his nearby airstrip (currently Santa Barbara Community Golf Course). From Samarkand, you can walk to Lawn Bowling, Loreto Plaza Shops, State Street shops and restaurants, great food on De la Vina, Trader Joe's, and our local elementary school, Adams. It's a terrific place to live (I've owned a home here since 1994) and a great place to work.

July 12 2007