Frequently Asked Real Estate Questions
What services do you offer?I am equally skilled at representing sellers as I am with buyers. I view our transaction as the beginning of a lifelong relationship, always available as your needs, wants and desires change throughout your life, and that of your family and friends, should you feel compelled to refer me :-)
How do I get started?Getting started is simple. Reach out through my contact form or schedule a call - I’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way. I prefer to meet in person, at my Mill Valley, Larkspur or Novato offices where we can get to know one another and I can learn more about your pending real estate transition.
What makes you different?Life transitions are part of my DNA; I have experienced many myself: relocation (Los Angeles to Bay Area), divorce, relocation (East Bay to Marin County), marriage & home purchase, downsizing mom (homeownership to Assisted Living).
Guiding my clients through their life’s transition is what feeds my soul.
What are your superpowers?I lead with my heart. I am a straight shooter, a curious extrovert who will communicate openly and honestly. I am principled and hold myself to high ethical standards while I negotiate with your best interests front and center. Patience and tenacity are my specialties; if your process requires viewing 100 homes, I’m there by your side.
Mortgage Broker or Big Bank?Should I sell my home or buy first?I’ve long been a fan of independent mortgage brokers for several reasons: available 24/7; vast array of lenders; stated income/self-employed, first-time buyer, low credit score-friendly. If you have an existing long-term bank relationship, personal banker, or W2 employee, check with your banker first.
There is no one size fits all scenario in life transitions. I have access to lenders that enable you to buy first if that will be less disruptive to your life. Selling first might provide more peace of mind if you’re the type of person that wants to know your future purchase budget down to the dollar.
What are Closing Costs?I remember when I bought my first home in L.A….my agent (mom!) forgot to inform me of closing costs and in the 11th hour I had to ‘find’ about $10,000! Buying a home isn’t just securing the funds for the home; closing costs are ON TOP of your earnest deposit, downpayment, and funds to close. They represent anywhere from 1-3% of the purchase price and cover: title & homeowners insurance, property taxes, escrow & notary fees, to name a few.
What makes Vanguard different?Vanguard is celebrating our 40th year (2026) as an independently owned & operated brokerage. That means no shareholders to please or pressure to keep transactions ‘in-house’ where the brokerage puts their profits ahead of yours. We have an in-house, full-time general counsel who advises us on up-to-the-minute issues affecting our real estate transactions; a dozen or so marketing professionals to make your property stand-out from the crowd; a generous, cost-effective program that provides sellers a line of credit for improvements before selling (*upon approval), and the warm and fuzzies knowing we consistently earn "Best Brokerage in the Bay Area" from San Francisco Magazine.