tessmarquez

[tessmarquez]

What to Do When a Family Member Passes: A Guide from a Probate Specialist

Hi there, I'm Tess Marquez. If you're reading this, you may be dealing with the loss of a loved one or supporting someone who is. I want you to know you're not alone.

Since 1997, I’ve helped families in the San Gabriel Valley, Inland Empire, and San Bernardino County navigate the emotional and legal complexities of probate real estate. This field is very different from regular real estate. When someone passes away without a living trust, their property usually goes through probate court—a legal process that can be confusing without the right help.

A probate real estate specialist isn’t just a realtor. We understand court procedures, legal documents, and timelines unique to probate sales. I work closely with probate attorneys to align the real estate process with court expectations, ensuring everything moves as smoothly as possible. Marketing and selling a probate property is a specialized process. Disclosure of the probate status can affect the type of buyers interested, and court confirmation may be required, meaning a hearing where other buyers can submit higher bids. I recently helped a family in Ontario where this process resulted in a $25,000 overbid—an outcome we prepared for from the beginning.

Beyond paperwork, probate sales carry emotional weight. Many times, I help families sort through decades of personal belongings, make tough decisions, and manage expectations. These aren't just transactions—they’re transitions.

You don’t need to wait for Letters of Administration or Testamentary to contact a probate realtor. There’s prep work that can begin early, such as evaluating the property’s condition, planning repairs, or understanding the market. I once supported a family in Rancho Cucamonga days after their father's passing, helping them prepare so when the time came, they were ready to move forward.

When searching for a probate real estate expert, ask about direct probate experience, relationships with attorneys, and knowledge of local procedures. The Inland Empire and San Gabriel Valley have unique court systems, and local knowledge makes a big difference.

Ultimately, the right probate real estate specialist offers more than technical skills—they offer support through one of life’s more difficult transitions. I've been honored to walk with hundreds of families through these moments, combining expertise with compassion.

[tessmarquez]

🏠 Buying Property for Your College Student: Real Estate Investment or Financial Mistake?📚💸

[tessmarquez]

What Do West Covina Home Buyers Need to Know About the May 2025 Market?

Present Local Housing Market Condition

Houses are selling quickly in West Covina, but not overnight. Houses in desirable neighborhoods such as South Hills and Eastland typically receive their contracts within 10-15 days. This leaves actual buyers sufficient time to view houses and make sound decisions.

House prices are becoming reasonable in the region. Following the high rates in March, sellers are requesting reasonable prices. Houses that are too costly along the high school and Cameron Avenue locations are either reducing their prices or taking longer to sell.

It is common to have many offers, but they can be handled. Most good properties get 3-5 strong offers, which allows prepared buyers to buy their dream home successfully. Recent Success Stories of Local Home Sales

Get pre-approved from a reputable lender. Pre-qualifying is not enough in the current competitive marketplace. Full underwriting approval provides you with a huge advantage when making offers.

Be crystal clear on your home buying budget. Understand your comfort level for monthly payments, your top home price, your down payment, and closing time horizon. Clarity wins deals in the San Gabriel Valley market.

Act fast on the right property. When you become enamored with your dream house, be ready to make an offer in 24-48 hours. Don't engage in panic buying, 

Summer 2025 Local Real Estate Forecast 

Early indicators indicate our housing market slowing a bit this summer. Sellers are taking listings off the market to wait for fall market conditions, and fewer families want to move during school times. This can translate into more inventory and less competition for savvy home buyers.

Local Home Buyers' Expert Advice

Active buyers: Don't be discouraged by initial rejection. Focus on those properties that have been on the market for at least one week - these sellers will be more price- and term-flexible.

Potential buyers: Get mortgage pre-approval beforehand, and then shop for homes available within your budget to gauge current market expectations.

Overwhelmed buyers: Step back for a brief moment. Sometimes stepping back provides more clarity on true potential.

Why Our Community for Your New Home

This neighborhood continues to be excellent value in the San Gabriel Valley real estate market. Those who choose our communities enjoy the spacious homes, good schools, and true community character - at dramatically lower prices than in coastal Los Angeles communities.

The most successful local home buyers prepare ahead of time and not spontaneously. They prepare themselves financially, they are practical in their expectations, and they deal with experienced local agents who understand the nuances of the region.

Ready to Purchase Your Dream Home?

I assist pre-qualified buyers in finding good deals on homes each week in our existing market. Would you like to learn about South Hills homes, Eastland neighborhoods, or homes near the best schools? Let's discuss your home purchasing needs.

📩 Contact me at TessMarquez.com | (626) 712-5156 or call/text anytime!

By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist | TessMarquez.com