Licensed since 1984, San Diego real estate broker Gary Kent is a recognized authority on real estate. In addition to selling over 5,500 homes for clients, he has been an expert court witness, trainer of other agents, and he does seminars on home buying, home selling, and investing. Gary has sold homes for The Salvation Army, dozens of major banks, and Fannie Mae, amongst others. You can find Gary on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Should I put in New Carpet?

Should I put in New Carpet? “Hi Gary. I’m going to be selling my home in Pacific Beach that you sold me way back 20 years ago. Would you believe I never changed that green carpet?! But it’s all worn out now. So do you suggest I recarpet or just offer a credit instead? I’ve
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How can I search the San Diego Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?

Through agreements on the San Diego MLS, agents can offer limited access to all listings in the MLS. For a self-directed service we offer our VIP version of MarketWatch. Another option is to contact one of our team members at 858-457-5368 for a more detailed and customized search that is much more precise. Visit our
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Avoiding a Pre-Payment Penalty

“I’m going to refinance soon and I want to be sure I don’t have a prepayment penalty. I told my loan person, but how can I be sure?” ***ANSWER: My best friend is a smart, successful stockbroker. His mother refinanced her home awhile back and he told the lender she planned to sell soon and
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How to Choose a Lender?

How to Choose a Lender? “We’re going to be buying a home soon, either in University City or maybe La Jolla. Do you recommend using a bank or a mortgage broker? I’ve heard direct lenders and banks have very limited options, but mortgage brokers can shop your loan to many sources and have a wider
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How Much Money Should I put down as my Deposit?

How Much Money Should I put down as my Deposit? “How much should my deposit be when I buy a home? I’ve heard you should make it as small as possible so you don’t lose much if you back out.” ***ANSWER: Small deposits do pose less risk to you as a buyer. But your deposit
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Mello-Roos. Why the fee?

San Diego Real Estate Mello Roos Question “We’ve been looking at homes in North San Diego County and sometimes we see an extra fee called Mello Roos for a few hundred bucks a month. I wouldn’t want to buy a property with an extra fee. What is that?” ***ANSWER: In California’s “taxpayer revolt” of 1978,
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Agents, Brokers, & REALTORS

Agents, Brokers, & REALTORS “Hi Gary. We really enjoy reading your newsletter. We’re going to be selling my aunt’s home in Clairemont soon and will be looking for an agent. I’ve seen several different titles. What’s the difference between a Realtor, an agent, and a broker?” ***ANSWER: A real estate agent in California can have
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The Great Debate: Condo vs. House

What is a better home to buy in San Diego? Condo vs. House “Perhaps you can help settle an argument. I want to buy a nice condo in a safe area like Clairemont or La Mesa, but my husband wants a house, even if it’s a little dump in a slummy area. He says he’d
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Selling and Avoiding Taxes

How can I sell amy Mission Beach Home to avoid taxes: “Hi Gary. After I sell my home in Mission Beach, how long do I have to buy another one to avoid paying taxes?” ***ANSWER: You’re either thinking of the old I.R.S. Code Sec.121 rules for a principal residence, or the Sec.1031 rules for investment
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What is a Buyer Agent?

The Gary Kent Team is a specialized group of Real Estate Professional. In addition to Gary Kent, there is a team of real estate “buyers” agents. Their primary focus is working with folks that want to buy homes. From the initial consultation meeting to handing you the keys to your new home their job is
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