Luxury Real Estate • New Construction
FAQs
Buying, selling and new construction in Irvine, in plain language. If your question is not here, Calise is happy to talk it through.
Buying
Start with a conversation about your budget, timing, commute and must-haves, then get pre-approved with a lender. From there, Calise narrows the list of communities and homes that fit, so your touring time is spent on real options.
It is strongly recommended. A pre-approval tells you what you can comfortably afford and shows sellers you are a serious buyer, which matters when a well-priced home draws multiple offers.
It depends on your loan type and the price of the home. Many buyers put down 10 to 20 percent, and closing costs typically add a few percent on top. Your lender can give you exact figures for your situation.
Each has trade-offs. Resale homes offer established neighborhoods and room to negotiate on price, while new construction offers modern design and warranties but with builder pricing and timelines. Calise compares both for your goals.
Selling
Calise reviews recent sales, active competition and nearby new-construction pricing, then adjusts for your home’s condition, upgrades and location. You receive a recommended price range with the reasoning behind it.
Focus on the changes buyers notice first: decluttering, fresh paint where needed, small repairs, landscaping and good lighting. Calise will walk through your home and recommend only what is likely to pay off.
It varies by price point, village and season. Well-priced, well-presented homes tend to sell fastest. Calise will share current days-on-market data for your neighborhood when you request a valuation.
Often, yes. Options include contingent offers, bridge financing or timing both closings together. Calise can coordinate the sale and purchase and help you choose the approach that fits your finances.
New construction
Yes, it is worth having one. The builder’s sales team represents the builder. Your own agent represents you, and in most new-home communities the builder pays the buyer’s agent commission, so representation usually costs you nothing extra.
On your very first visit. Many builders require your agent to be registered at the first visit, or they may not allow representation later. Contact Calise before you tour so she can register you.
Base prices are often firm, but there can be room on design-studio upgrades, lot premiums, closing-cost credits or incentives tied to the builder’s preferred lender. Calise spent nearly nine years on the builder side and knows where the flexibility usually is.
Timelines vary by builder and phase, often several months to a year from contract to close. Quick move-in homes that are already under construction can close much sooner.
Work with Calise
Buying new construction, selling a luxury home, or simply exploring your options, it starts with a private, no-pressure conversation.
949-819-5699
calisechangrealty@gmail.com