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5 Negotiation Mistakes Buyers and Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Josh Lee | Realtor | Real Estate Negotiation Expert Negotiation is one of the most critical parts of a real estate transaction but also one of the trickiest. Whether you’re buying or selling, avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure a smooth process. 1. Getting Emotional Buying or selling is personal but treating it like business keeps deals on track. Emotional decisions can cloud judgment, so stay focused on facts and goals. 2. Lowballing or Overpricing Extreme pricing
Joshualee
3 days ago2 min read


How to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient (and Buyer-Ready)
By Josh Lee | Realtor | Home Efficiency Expert Today’s buyers care about sustainability and energy efficiency can save you money while boosting your home’s value. In a competitive real estate market, making your home more energy-efficient can be a game-changer. Simple Energy Upgrades: LED Lighting Low-cost, high-impact upgrade. Replacing standard bulbs with LED lights reduces energy usage and enhances your home’s appeal with brighter, more modern lighting. Smart Thermostat He
Joshualee
Nov 172 min read


What to Expect Out of Your First Buyer Meeting
San Mateo Realtor | Homeownership Expert | Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Home The first buyer meeting is a huge step in your home-buying journey. It can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to clarify your goals and set expectations. Here’s what you can expect, and how I will help you every step of the way. 1. Understanding Your Needs and Goals 🏡 The first meeting is all about getting to know you better. We’ll dive into what you’re looking for in a h
Joshualee
Nov 103 min read


The Hidden Costs of Homeownership (and How to Plan for Them)
By Josh Lee | Realtor | Financial Planning Expert for Homeowners Buying a home is exciting, but the costs don’t stop at your mortgage. From property taxes to maintenance, hidden expenses can add up quickly. Here’s a quick guide to what you might face: Common Hidden Costs: Property Taxes: Taxes vary by location and can change annually, so plan for potential increases. HOA Fees: If your home is in a community with an HOA, you’ll have monthly fees for shared amenities and upkeep
Joshualee
Nov 31 min read


Should You Renovate Your Home, or Move? 🤔
San Mateo Realtor | Helping You Decide Between Renovating or Moving Should You Renovate Your Home, or Move? 🤔 It’s one of the biggest questions homeowners face, and it's a decision loaded with both financial and emotional weight: Should I renovate my current home, or move to something that fits better? Jumping the fence too quickly can lead to regrets, whether you spend too much on a move or suffer through a renovation that doesn't solve the core issue. Here is a deeper dive
Joshualee
Oct 273 min read


Local Business Spotlight – Backhaus
San Mateo Realtor | Local Business Advocate | Supporting Our Community’s Hidden Gems As a local agent, supporting small businesses is one of my favorite things to do. Real estate isn’t just about homes it’s about community. A strong community is built on the people and businesses that bring it to life. That’s why I’m starting this monthly feature: to highlight local gems that make San Mateo special. This month, I want to shine a light on one of my favorite spots: Backhaus in
Joshualee
Oct 172 min read


First-Time Buyer Myths Busted: 5 Things You Need to Know Before Buying
San Mateo Realtor | First-Time Buyer Specialist | Guiding Your Smartest First Move Buying your first home in the Bay Area can feel overwhelming especially with so many myths floating around online. Knowing the truth can save you time, stress, and money. Here’s your quick-hit guide to busting common first-time buyer myths. ❌ Myth 1: You Need 20% Down ❌ Myth 2: You Need Perfect Credit ✅ Reality: Lenders look at your whole financial picture, not just your credit score. Factors l
Joshualee
Oct 102 min read


Is Fall a Good Time to Sell? (Hint: It Might Be Better Than You Think)
San Mateo Realtor | Seasonal Strategy Specialist | Helping You Sell Smarter in Fall When most people think of selling their home, they picture spring blooms and sunny open houses but, in my experience, fall can be an incredible time to sell (if you have the right strategy) . Here’s why: 1. Less Competition = More Attention Many homeowners wait until spring, which means fall listings can stand out. With fewer homes on the market, your listing gets more eyes and more serious bu
Joshualee
Oct 32 min read


What to Know About Selling a Probate Property
By Josh Lee | Realtor | Probate-Savvy Advisor Selling a home is emotional in any situation but when it involves probate, there are often...
Joshualee
Sep 253 min read


5 Signs You’re Ready to Buy Your First Home (Even If You’re Nervous)
By Josh Lee | San Mateo Realtor | First-Time Buyer Specialist Buying your first home is exciting but let’s be real, it can also feel...
Joshualee
Sep 222 min read


The Escrow Process, Explained Without the Jargon
By Josh Lee | Local Realtor | Community Connector You found the right home, made an offer, and it was accepted congrats! Now comes a word...
Joshualee
Sep 122 min read


How to Prep Your Home Like a Pro (Even Months in Advance)
Thinking about selling your home in the next few months? The smartest sellers know success doesn’t start when the sign goes up it starts...
Joshualee
Sep 52 min read


Josh’s Local Guide to San Mateo: Coffee, Eats, Parks & More
By Josh Lee | Local Realtor | Community Connector Looking for a place that combines suburban charm, urban convenience, and a strong sense...
Joshualee
Aug 293 min read


What Golf Taught Me About Real Estate
By Josh Lee | Local Realtor | Golf Enthusiast If you know me, you know I love golf. But what you might not know is that the game has...
Joshualee
Aug 233 min read


Q2 2025 San Mateo County Market Review
By Josh Lee | Local Realtor | Strategy-First Advisor We are well into the third quarter of 2025, and it’s clear that the San Mateo County...
Joshualee
Aug 152 min read
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