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Agent to Watch – Loridana Garey
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Congratulations to one of our June Agents to Watch, Loridana Garey! To put it simply, Loridana loves her Sonoma County home. That’s why it’s easy for her to give each and every transaction her all – Because she knows and appreciates the value of the Wine Country lifestyle. Keep reading to learn more about Loridana!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Check and scan the 24-hour market watch on the MLS for new or updated listings.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Surround yourself with positive people who help you become the best version of yourself!
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
Working and living in the Sonoma County wine country is truly a blessing. I love to see the look on the faces of clients that are here from out of the area looking for property. The relaxed smile never leaves their face. When you have such a great product you only need to share your experience when showing the area.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
Mentorship is very powerful, and I have had the best of the best! Knowledge is the key to becoming a great agent. Learning different styles of selling and prospecting has allowed me to comfortably develop my own techniques. Learning from other great agents is key for success to anyone in this industry. I’m grateful for the mentors that I continue to have.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
I appreciate all forms of architecture, and every home is beautiful in its own way. I think a front porch is a great way to get to know your neighbors and neighborhood. I always find a home with a front porch to be charming and inviting. Front porch Fridays are a regular occurrence at my house during the Summer.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
I lost my mom to Alzheimer’s in 2021. I miss her tremendously. Her business mind and strong will is something I hope lives in me. She was remarkable in everyway. I wish there was visiting hours in heaven, so I can see and have dinner with her.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
There are so many great places to visit in Sonoma County! Wineries, Breweries, hiking trails or the Sonoma Coast… but, a picnic at Preston winery in the “secret garden” is a great place to start.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
I am looking forward to my kids coming home from college this summer and spending time with them hiking and boating in Lake Tahoe. Since my family is from Sicily, we hope to have some relatives come for a visit.
Agent to Watch – Tim DeBells
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Congratulations to a June Agent to Watch, Tim DeBellis! Tim knows that to stay on top of his game, he can’t stop improving himself and his business practices. From attending worldwide partnership/networking events to taking the time to educate his fellow agents, Tim is a true student of his craft. Keep reading to learn more about Tim!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Every morning I have an automatic reminder that pops up and asks, “What are you grateful for today?” This is the first thing on my to-do list every day.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
This may sound trite, but the best advice I’ve received is to believe in myself. If you can genuinely believe in yourself, then others will too.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
I’ve traveled worldwide, and while I’ve been to some beautiful places, Sonoma County is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. For that reason, it’s a privilege to be able to practice real estate here.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
The recent changes in the industry have been a challenge to many, myself included. Trying to stay positive and focused in the face of this change has been challenging. I wouldn’t say I have necessarily conquered this challenge, but I continually rely on my commitment to my vision, maintain a mindset of abundance, and rely on my spouse and colleagues to help navigate my way out of dark places when I find myself there.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
Mentorship has been central to my reaching the level of success I’ve achieved so far. And it will continue to be essential as I grow in my career, business, and life.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Covered outdoor living spaces. We are fortunate to live in an area where we can enjoy outdoor living most of the year. I love the growing trend of incorporating outdoor spaces that go far beyond the basic backyard patio.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
I would love the opportunity to have another dinner with my grandfather, to hear his stories of how he immigrated to this Country from Italy with little money or education and how he worked numerous jobs throughout his life to support his family. Those stories and his experiences helped shape my perspective on life.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
That would all depend on their specific likes and interests. Naturally, I recommend a day of wine tasting, exploring the rugged Sonoma Coastline, and then a fantastic hike through the redwood forests.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Pretty simple for this year. I look forward to spending time in Palm Springs, my “happy place.”
Agent of the Month – Nancy Azevedo
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Congratulations to our June Agent of the Month, Nancy Azevedo! To say Nancy’s approach to real estate is well-rounded would be an understatement. Nancy’s business is one that is rooted in consistent market knowledge, a steadfast dedication to her clients, and a passion for consistent improvement. Keep reading to learn more about Nancy!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
If I were to describe my approach in three words, they would be: personable, knowledgeable, and dedicated.
What’s one aspect of your business that you are looking to improve on this year? In what ways/how would like to see yourself improve?:
As I reflect on my business and personal growth, there’s always room for improvement. This year, one aspect I am looking to enhance is my use of technology to streamline the real estate process for my clients. By leveraging the latest tools and platforms, I aim to enhance communication, provide timely updates, and offer a seamless experience.
To what do you attribute your success most?:
I strive to provide exceptional service by being patient, understanding, accommodating, and honest every step of the way. I understand that buying or selling a home is a significant decision, and I make it a priority to truly listen to my client’s needs and concerns and provide them with informed guidance and support. I genuinely care about their happiness and satisfaction, and I go the extra mile to ensure their real estate experience exceeds their expectations.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
If I had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, it would be to prioritize building genuine relationships. Take the time to truly listen to client’s needs and concerns, and always strive to exceed their expectations. Additionally, never stop learning and expanding your knowledge. Stay up-to-date with local market conditions, industry trends, and technological advancements that can enhance your services.
What’s the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
One piece of advice I give my clients is to prioritize their goals and needs. Buying or selling a home is a significant decision, and it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve.
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don’t necessarily go your way?:
In the real estate business, challenges and setbacks are bound to happen. When things don’t go as planned, I embrace it as an opportunity for growth and learning. I take a moment to reflect, evaluate the situation, and identify areas for improvement. Maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on setbacks allows me to recoup and move forward.
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
Being a realtor and a first-time mom has taught me the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Balancing work and family life requires flexibility and adaptability. When I’m working, I focus on being efficient and effective during work hours. When I’m with my family, I make a conscious effort to be fully present. I also prioritize self-care. Taking care of myself physically, mentally, and emotionally allows me to show up as the best version of myself in both my personal and professional roles.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
Mentors have played a vital role in both my life and career, and I’m incredibly grateful for their guidance and support. I’ve had the privilege of connecting with experienced professionals who generously shared their knowledge and wisdom with me. I’m truly fortunate to have had mentors who believed in my potential and invested their time and energy in helping me succeed.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
One of the significant risks I embraced was stepping out of my comfort zone. I engaged in activities such as door knocking, cold calls, distributing marketing flyers, and hosting open houses. All of these efforts benefited my business in one way or another.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
When it comes to choosing just one business to visit in Sonoma County, it’s a tough decision because each area offers so many unique gems.
Agents of the Month – Jina Marie & Jerry Ellsworth
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Congratulations to our May Agents of the Month, Jina Marie and Jerry Ellsworth! The Ellsworth Team know the value of being well-rounded agents on behalf of their clients. From expanding their sphere to staying on top of their market knowledge, their secret to success is one rooted in consistency. Check out our blog below to learn more about the Ellsworths!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
Consistent, Reliable, Tenacious
What’s one aspect of your business that you are looking to improve on this year? In what ways/how would like to see yourself improve?:
Expanding our sphere of influence by getting more involved in community organizations that support our vision.
To what do you attribute your success most?:
Establishing relationships and providing clients and prospective clients with valuable information in the real estate market.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
Know your market.
What’s the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
The home-buying process can sometimes be a marathon, not a sprint.
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don’t necessarily go your way?:
Do not stop. Keep pushing forward and exhaust all options!
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
When you wake up every day and still have the motivation, drive, and energy; you feel you are doing things right.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
The mentors that have left an impression on us are the ones with a strong moral and professional compass and the tenacity to move through difficult times with grace.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
The risk of going to the ledge and jumping into the unknown without the stability of a steady salary. In doing this, you gain the confidence to trust your instincts and realize real quickly that failure is not an option; there is no plan B.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
Roach Co. in Windsor, Ca, because they have the best customer service and an amazing product line!
Agents to Watch – The Berzman Group
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Congratulations to May Agents to Watch, Hanna and Brandon Berzman of The Berzman Group! Hanna and Brandon are new to the real estate game, but you wouldn’t know it. They know each other’s strengths and use that knowledge to propel their careers and their client’s interests forward. Keep reading to learn about this incredible husband and wife team, The Berzman Group!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Hanna: Pay Mortgage. Happy 1st of the month 🙂
Brandon: The first thing on my to-do list is to always check my calendar and inbox. Nothing is worse than starting your day and realizing you missed your first appointment on accident.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Hanna: If it’s too good to be true it is and always listen to your gut.
Brandon: It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission. Leaders love to see people take initiative and I always moved up in previous work settings by bringing solutions rather than problems to my boss. Now that I’m married with a wife, and business partner, that loves me unconditionally – this is even more accurate!
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
Hanna: I am such a lover of the Bay Area, specifically Sonoma County, so to be able to assist others in finding the perfect home here is so much fun and very rewarding.
Brandon: My favorite part of working here is helping the third and fourth-generation Bay Area residents find a way to continue living in the area they were raised in and love. Being in my early 30s, I’m witnessing firsthand many people getting priced out of being able to afford a home in California. As people feel the need to leave the state to achieve the dream of homeownership, I take a lot of pride in every case I can help someone achieve that dream without sacrificing where they want to live.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
Hanna: Recently I was having an extremely hard time making a decision about an investment property. I didn’t rush myself to make a decision before I felt ready. Instead, I took as much time as I needed and made a pros and cons list. Between giving myself time and making the list I was able to find the clarity I needed and make the decision.
Brandon: Recently I worked on a deal where the other side was failing to communicate and hit deadlines. I’m talking multiple calls, voicemails, and emails being ignored days at a time. My buyers were so fed up with the lack of transparency they were ready to walk away! I found myself not only having to manage the other agent involved but also having to console my buyers into not making a decision based off pure emotion. Through expert communication, the application of proven processes, and leveraging my mentor’s years of experience dealing with similar situations I was able to navigate to a successful close.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
Hanna: Our mentor Mandy has been so helpful in starting our new career in real estate. When I have a question about anything, she is right there to answer, continuously sharing her years of experience and knowledge. I have felt more confident and at ease in my first transactions knowing I can always lean on her guidance and support.
Brandon: W’s mentorship program has been vital in my early successes as a real estate agent. A huge shoutout to Mandy for always being available and insightful, her guidance has been the most valuable asset I could have asked for during my first months. This appreciation also extends beyond just my mentor. From the front office staff to the leadership team, to other W agents on the opposite side of deals I have worked – thank you for always being supportive.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Hanna: Skylights. Who doesn’t love tons of natural light and a feature that automatically elevates the space!
Brandon: I love homes that have sunrooms. Also, as a little bit of a nerd, I love a dedicated library complete with windowless walls and built-in bookshelves. 🙂
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
Hanna: My dad. He passed away in 2021 and I would give anything to have dinner with him one more time. We loved eating good food together and I know he would love to see and hear about our new career in real estate.
Brandon: Going to piggyback off of Hanna and also say my dad here. It’s been years since I’ve had a chance to get another male figure’s advice and he always had the best. I would love to pick his brain one more time and talk to him about my daughter Violet and everything else he’s missed in the last ten years.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
Hanna: First, grab some food at Sol Food in Petaluma. Then check out some shops downtown. After that head to the coast and catch the sunset at one of the many beaches nearby.
Brandon: This time of year there’s only one right answer: Go straight to the Giant’s stadium, Oracle Park, and catch a game. If you ask me it’s the only rival to the Golden Gate when it comes to Bay Area architecture.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Hanna: I’m looking forward to finishing our remodel in the coming months and continuing to grow our business together as a newly married couple!
Brandon: The thing I’m most excited for this year is continuing to grow as a new agent. I’ve loved every step of the journey so far and now that Hanna and I are teammates I’m just really excited to see what we can achieve together!
Agent to Watch – Jamie Maletta
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Congratulations to April Agent to Watch, Jamie Maletta! From the moment Jamie entered the real estate game, she hasn’t stopped hustling. She effortlessly combines her passion for the industry with her love for her Wine Country home, to give her clients a hands-on experience from start to finish. Check out our blog below to learn more about Jamie!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Check the MLS for my clients, of course!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Don’t wait for perfection to get started.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
I truly believe we live in the most beautiful place. Close to everything, yet still quaint. The wine’s pretty great too! 🙂
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
I recently started a mobile bar business with a partner. Starting something from the ground up is difficult, and we have never owned businesses before, but we are pushing forward and just figuring things out as we go. It’s both challenging and rewarding.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
A huge role! I never stop learning. No two deals are alike, I ask questions every day. There’s a lot at stake in Real Estate, and having support is key in being successful.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Upstairs entertainment area. Somewhere for the kids to hang out.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
My Grandma. I want her to see me living out my dreams and my accomplishments.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
Wine tasting is Healdsburg, then the coast.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Building my businesses! I look forward to a busy year in Real Estate, as well as making a name for ourselves as mobile bartenders for large events. I have big goals this year!
Agent of the Month – Scott Raaka
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Congratulations to our April Agent of the Month, Scott Raaka! Scott knows that the real estate business is not an easy one, but through ups and downs, he’s never lost his laser focus on his clients and his successes. Keep reading to learn more about Scott!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
Integrity, responsiveness, and understanding.
What’s one aspect of your business that you are looking to improve on this year? In what ways/how would like to see yourself improve?:
More referral business. Networking with foreign partners in LeadingRE.
To what do you attribute your success most?:
Perseverance.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
Network.
What’s the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
Be patient the right property will come along or if it’s a listing be patient we will receive offers.
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don’t necessarily go your way?:
I try to learn from my mistakes and think about how I would’ve done it differently. That way the next time the same situation comes up I’ll know how to handle it.
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
If I feel healthy and confident and family life is good, I know I’m getting it right.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
The mentors in my life have taught me to do the right thing and stay focused and continue to pursue my business.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
Investing in my business with few or no clients at the time. Now I know how and where to spend my money in order to help prosper my business.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
The girl and the fig. Their food and drinks are out of this world!
April is Sonoma County Wine Month
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Call us crazy, but we LOVE the month of April. No, it’s not the first hints of Spring and Summer that has everyone getting excited, or the upcoming festivals and events…It’s that April is Sonoma County Wine Month! To help you kick off your own festivities, we’ve put together a list of our favorite must-see celebrations to add to your list.
ROWEN Release Party at Rodney Strong
You’re invited to enjoy an afternoon in the newest private event space at Rodney Strong Vineyards, The Cellar Door! You’ll take a deep dive into the collection of high-elevation wines, and be given the first chance to taste an incredible variety of wines.
Space in this event is very limited, so get your tickets fast!
Where: Rodney Strong Vineyards
When: Saturday, April 8th
Papapietro Perry Riedel Veloce Glass Seminar
What’s better than wine tasting and learning about the importance of the correct stemware? Having the option to do it from the comfort of your own home! This event is offered both in person at the tasting room and virtually, and with the price of your ticket, you will get two bottles of wine, and two sets of professional Riedel Veloce glassware.
Sounds incredible, right? Get yourself on the list!
Where: Papapietro Perry (Virtual Attendance Available)
When: Saturday, April 15th
Earth Day Hikes at Benziger Family Winery
Take in the beauty of this one-of-a-kind Sonoma Mountain Estate, and hear directly from Chris Benziger as he shares family stories, insight into their farming practices, and much more!
Space on this hike is super limited, so reserve your spot now!
Where: Benziger Family Winery
When: Saturday, April 22nd, 10am & 2pm
Kunde Family Winery Mountain Top Tour & Tasting
Start your day with a one-of-a-kind journey through a vineyard tour, and end it with an incredible tasting experience overlooking the rolling hills of Wine Country. You’ll get to kick back and relax while enjoying award-winning Vino and locally sourced cheese pairings.
This tour is only offered at select times. Learn more and sign yourself up!
Where: Kunde Family Winery
When: Saturdays in April
Gloria Ferrer – The Rosé Exploration
Allow yourself to be immersed in all things Rosé as you taste 4-5 of the iconic sparkling wines from the Gloria Ferrer collection. You’ll also get an inside look into how these varietals are handcrafted for your enjoyment!
This experience is only offered on a limited basis. Reserve your spot!
Where: Gloria Ferrer
When: Select Dates + Times in April
Passport to Dry Creek Valley
Choose your own adventure in Wine Country! Over the weekend, you’re invited to join 34 wineries in a celebration of the vintners, land, and traditions that make each of their wine selections unique. Take in the views, taste reserve wines, have the opportunity to join elite wine clubs, and more!
General and VIP options are available. Get your tickets soon!
Where: Dry Creek Valley Wineries, Healdsburg
When: Saturday, April 29th & Sunday, April 30th
And much, much, MUCH more! When in Wine Country, you have to celebrate wine. Check out the full list of events, cheers!
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Personal Branding to Grow Your Real Estate Client Portfolio
Female real estate agent of Black ethnicity, discuss the contract with her clients a young Caucasian couple
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Real estate agents must grasp the opportunities in personal branding strategies to stand out in their competitive market. There are over 3 million licensed real estate agents in the United States, according to the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO). Without a personal branding strategy, a hard-working real estate agent will blend into the crowd. Personal branding allows you to stand out.
An Overview of Personal Branding in Real Estate
Personal branding is the image you want to present to your clients. This could be a no-nonsense, professional image of a person who closes deals and is a tough negotiator on behalf of their clients. It could also be a more casual, collaborative image of a person in a niche market who helps people find their dream homes. Who you are in the real estate world is a combination of what you project and what your clients want. It is where those two ideas meet.
Your strategy is how you present yourself to your target market. According to an article in Forbes, matching your authentic vision to your client’s needs builds trust and lasting relationships. These relationships make for successful careers in real estate.
Personal Branding Toolkit for Real Estate Agents
Many agents don’t know where to start when it comes to building a personal brand, as successful real estate marketing is not a one-size-fits-all approach. However, there are some overarching themes that are applicable to all real estate agents. These are the items you’ll want in your real estate personal branding toolkit.
- Target market: If you don’t know your target market, then you won’t be able to develop a personal branding strategy. Look at your last 10 sales. What do these clients have in common? Does this represent the clients you will have in the future? Find out what these people have in common and why you ended up closing the deal.
- Value statement: Once you know your target market, evaluate why you ended up with the deal. Were you in the right place at the right time, or did they choose you for a specific trait? Use these details to develop an authentic value statement that represents you and your target market.
- Engagement strategy: Personal branding is only as effective as its reach, and knowing which marketing channels reach your target market is essential to increase your visibility. Identify the marketing mediums that reach your potential clients, and focus your efforts here.
- Networking: Digital marketing has opened up networking opportunities, and every real estate agent should have a strong digital presence. Make sure your digital marketing campaign aligns with your personal brand.
- Measurements: You won’t know if your personal branding is successful if you aren’t monitoring your efforts. Prioritize goals and create key performance indicators (KPIs), so you can measure successes and failures and make evidence-based changes to your branding strategy.
- Comparisons: Finally, compare your work to others. If everyone in town is presenting a starkly different personal brand, there might be a reason. Uniqueness can be an advantage, or it can be unpopular. Make sure that your branding strategy is in line with your community’s wants and needs. It’s important to be authentic, but make sure that authenticity is based on shared values and not a need to be original.
Tips for Successful Real Estate Marketing with Personal Branding
Each real estate agent will have a different execution of their personal branding toolkit. Here are some tips for successful personal branding implementation.
- Remain authentic. Highlight your strengths and values and how they will help your target market.
- Use technology. A social media presence is one of the biggest ways to spread your personal branding message.
- Network. Collaborate with agents across the nation who share their personal branding strategies.
- Be consistent. Don’t change your branding strategy without very good reasons, or you’ll lose authenticity.
- Maintain a presence. Don’t overwhelm your target audience with engagement, but don’t let them forget you either.
With a successful personal branding strategy, real estate agents can build a strong client portfolio that grows due to retention and referrals. Your clients will know who they are working with and what assets you bring to the table in a real estate transaction. This builds everything you want in a marketing strategy: consistency, trust, and satisfaction.
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Tax Break Opportunities for California Homeowners
Old elderly senior caucasian freelancer woman grandmother checking pension documents, loan, e-banking, doing paperwork with laptop, mortgage, paying domestic bills at home
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Exploring tax breaks for California homeowners? From first-time home buyer credits to additional tax credits, getting a handle on the tax benefits of owning a home in California is an invaluable asset. Reinvest in your future with this guide and unlock the full potential of your investments!
What is a Tax Credit?
A tax credit can reduce the amount of taxes owed. It is a dollar-for-dollar reduction, so for every dollar, you receive in a tax credit, it reduces your taxes by that same amount. Unlike a deduction that reduces your taxable income, a tax credit can be used to directly subtract any taxes you owe or increase your refund if you don’t owe anything.
In addition, some credits are even refundable, meaning the IRS will send you money back if you claim more in credits than the total taxes owed.
#1: Mortgage Interest Tax Deduction in California
Often utilized by first-time buyers, homeowners have the advantage of deducting mortgage interest when filing taxes. Loans taken out before December 15, 2017, are eligible for deductions up to $1 million, while loans taken out after this date are only eligible for deductions up to $750,000. The amount one can save in taxes is dependent on how much interest was paid and whether itemizing your deductions makes more financial sense than taking the standard deduction. The standard deduction was increased in 2021, so it may be worth considering before itemizing other deductions such as mortgage interest.
#2: Property Tax Deduction
Married couples filing jointly can take advantage of a $10,000 property tax deduction, but it only makes sense if the total itemized deductions are greater than the standard deduction. For those with mortgages, remember that property taxes are already included in your monthly payments.
#3: Energy Savings Tax Credits
You could take advantage of tax breaks and get up to 30% off the cost of installing solar electric panels or water heaters, plus a lifetime credit of $500 for energy-efficient home improvements such as windows, doors, skylights, insulation, and home energy audits.
From January 1 2023 onwards, the credit will be increased to a maximum of $1,200 per year for eligible properties.
#4: 1099/Self-Employment Office Write Off
Are you a self-employed person working from home? If so, then you’re in luck – the CARES Act allows for a deduction of up to $1,500 for your home office space. However, be sure to look over the fine print as W-2 employees are not eligible for this deduction.
#5: Tax Breaks for Accessibility Upgrades
If you’re an older homeowner looking to age in place, you may be able to take advantage of a taxes break by making home improvements that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Examples include wheelchair ramps, grab bars, widened doorways, lowered cabinets or electrical fixtures, and stairlifts.
Just make sure you have a doctor’s letter confirming the changes were medically necessary!
#6: Interest Deductions from HELOC
If you have a home equity line of credit or HELOC, the interest you pay on that loan is tax deductible — but only if the money is used for home-related expenses like renovations or repairs. Keep your receipts in a safe place!
Get the Most Out of Your California Homeownership Tax Breaks
Owning a home in California can provide significant taxable breaks, but you have to do your due diligence to make sure you’re getting the most out of them. There are two main ways to ensure that all of the available tax breaks are taken advantage of:
– Appealing the taxable value of your home
– Claiming all applicable deductions and credits
When it comes to appealing the taxable value, this means making sure that your home is evaluated correctly according to its fair market value. This will help reduce your overall tax burden by ensuring that you’re not overpaying taxes for a property that is worth less than what you’re currently paying.
Finally, it is important to make sure that all potential deductions and credits are claimed in order for homeowners to get the maximum amount of savings from their investments. By taking these steps, homeowners can enjoy significant financial benefits from owning a home in California while also reducing their overall taxes burden.
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