Introduction to Scott Williams and Jonathan Robinson and what we cover.

The best color and other important front door choices.

Top 10 things to do to bolster first impressions, setting the “First Impression” meter high so you get the best ratings from potential buyers.

Picking the right colors for today’s market.

Additional front of the house choices, what is and is not a fixer-upper, and important guidelines for the front yard.

The importance of the path to the front door.

We add a few more items to consider about the front of the house. Then we count down the top 10 of “It’s What’s up Front That Counts.”

Market conditions tell us how the sale will go. In a totally hot seller’s market, or a totally cold buyer’s market, the rules of selling break down. Conditions change. When should you pivot away from fixing up a home?

These are the surfaces that are most visible to a buyer. What do you need to know about these money making surfaces and how to take advantage of the impact they have on buyers.

Winning a high price sale has more to it than just the condition. What do you need to know about the inevitable friction between what a buyer expects and what you may be providing?

What inspections should a seller order prior to selling and how can they use these inspections to increase the sales price. Since these inspections must be given to a buyer what should a seller discern about these choices before ordering them.

Kitchen remodels consume a lot of time but can return a high profit. We look at small cost and large cost remodeling prior to sale. This will help you with all the decisions that center around whether to do a kitchen remodel prior to selling.

This covers the necessity of the buyer side inspection process. There are many questions that need to be resolved. You don’t want to be surprised after you close escrow. This covers the inspection process including general reports and specialized reports.

The decision to fix up a home for profit comes with added stress. It takes time and might not be the best choice of you. Scott and Jonathan examine the choices and how to decide to move forward.

This episode is a quick review of many important decision points in the home selling process. It provides a quick review of the factors you must attend to in preparing your home for maximum profit. This is the focus you need to get your home ready for sale.

Come explore how professional photography has grown in importance for proper marketing of a home. Drone shots and Drone video have become more commonplace and help the home shopper to better understand the home.

This is the first of two episodes that Feature top local stager, Victoria Lindstrum from Dramatic Choices. Come explore the staging process and how it used in marketing a home. Find out how profitable staging really is.

This is the second of two episodes that Feature top local stager, Victoria Lindstrum from Dramatic Choices. Come explore the staging process and how it is used in marketing a home. Find out what factors help with the profitability of staging.

If you own real estate and want to fix it up prior to sale but don’t have the cash, we will assist you. We front you the money for the repairs and take payment out of the close of escrow. It is not a loan and there are no payments. Not having to use your own cash to fix up the home can be a game changer and a big profit center.

At the bottom and top of every market the relationship between Sellers and Buyers shifts – sometimes wildly – as these opposing sides renegotiate the market relationship. For weeks, or months, Realtors may have little insight to offer until the Sellers and Buyers create a new balance. We are in such a market at this recording date. Here is what you should know as market peaks.

The greatest local home fix-up artist of all time is David Thomas with 185 Santa Barbara/Montecito homes purchased, fixed up and resold. The is Volume 1 of a three-part series. Listen and learn from the undisputed master of flipping homes locally. Hear his golden advice. One tip could save you a ton or help you to make a fortune when you fix-up a home for profit.

The is Volume 2 of a three-part series.  We move even deeper into the process with David Thomas, the greatest local home fix-up artist.  Listen and learn from the undisputed master of flipping homes locally.

The is Volume 3, the final meeting of a three-part series. We finish up this master class with David Thomas, the greatest local home fix-up artist of all time. There are many real jewels here as he shares insights about the fix and flip process.

Homeowner’s Insurance has become a huge problem with lack of choices and MUCH higher prices. Discover how to the system works as well as some top choices for making your home more defensible against fire. A must listen for any homeowner or prospective homeowner.

Take a tour of the Eastside with Scott and Jonathan. Brought to life by historian Walker Tompkins this episode explores the first real neighborhood in Santa Barbara. Learn about the cradle of Santa Barbara.

Tour the Pass at the top of the mountains as you head northwards. Find out about the cowboy settlers, the stagecoach robbers, the early Turnpike road, and what it was like to travel over the mountains in the old days.

Jonathan, a psychotherapist, shows you how to take care of yourself and your relationship while moving.  Become better at negotiating with your partner and cooling the flames of stress while buying or selling a home.   

Jonathan Robinson, my cohost, is a well-known psychotherapist. Together, we discuss the personal impacts from the disruptions in the marketplace. Relationships between buyers and sellers are in flux.  How to make decisions and move forward when the market has changed. 

Come explore the difference between purchasing an existing home and purchasing a home while it is being built. In this episode we travel south to Venture County and meet with Realtor Kaitlin Miller. Together, we discuss Kaitlin’s new construction project in Oxnard, a 40-unit condominium. We focus on the Buyer and what Buyer’s can expect when purchasing a brand-new home.

Santa Barbara’s Waterfront is explored through several historical impacts: The fur trade, arrival of ships in the early 1800’s, and the building of Stearn’s Wharf. We discuss the start of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront and end with current happenings such as the development of the Funk Zone. The Waterfront is one of the most visited communities in our town, find out why in this episode.

Special Guest Sharan Schefrin- Regional Marketing Manager for Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties joins today’s podcast. We discuss collaborating with your real estate agent to create a comprehensive marketing plan. We dive into the current mix of digital, print, social media ads, and videos. Learn what kind of updates to expect on the exposure and traffic your home is generating.

We meet with agent Joe Pyke to explore the essential steps involved in real estate transactions in Portugal. We get guidance about the investment climate, loans, the Golden Visa program, and navigating the process of buying and selling homes in this delightful vacation spot in the European Union.

Introducing our special guest, Greg Gunter – a highly accomplished Realtor who ranks #2 nationwide for the country of Mexico. In this episode of Sweet Home Santa Barbara, we dive into the exciting world of San Miguel de Allende real estate. Greg shares his expertise on the property market, providing valuable insights for both buyers and sellers.

We discuss the history of Hope Ranch in an episode of Sweet Home Santa Barbara. Hope Ranch has a rich history, dating back to the Portola Expedition in 1769. The area was given to Naraciso Fabrigard as his payment for 40 years of working for the Spanish. Eventually, it was sold to the Hope family, who became wealthy from selling wool. The area developed over time and became known for equestrian activities, and today it is home to many estates.

Montecito, California, is a neighborhood with a rich history dating back to the time of the Spanish. Soon after the California gold rush the first of many hotels were built in the mountains above Montecito to exploit the natural hot springs. Combining the newly arrived railroad with a stream of health seekers brought wealthy visitors who stayed to build large estates during the late 19th and early 20th century. Montecito’s past is characterized by a blend of Spanish influence, grand estates, and the allure of the coastal setting.

The Mesa in Santa Barbara has a unique geological history, with the center of town dropping while the Mesa remained elevated. Over time, debris from nearby creeks filled the area, shaping its current landscape. Initially isolated and difficult to access, the Mesa experienced limited population growth. In the mid-1800s, a lighthouse was built on the Mesa, and farming became prominent. The Mesa later faced competition from oil drilling and airport development. After a housing boom post-World War II, the Mesa became a desirable neighborhood with ocean views, a pleasant microclimate, and higher property values. It is now home to approximately 12,000 people across its 1,900 acres.

Marsha Kotlyar is a prominent agent based in Montecito, California. In this episode we gain valuable insight into Marsha’s inspirations and the remarkable journey that propelled her to become one of the leading agents in the region.

Samantha Keeping, a highly experienced interior designer known for her skill in transforming houses into dream homes and the creative mind behind Keeping Interiors. This episode delves into Samantha’s background, design philosophy, and memorable projects, highlighting the significance of thoughtful interior design.

Interview with Tony Miller, a regional manager for Santa Barbara and Ventura Home Power Program, which focuses on renewable energy solutions for residential homes. We discuss the benefits of solar panels and backup batteries in Santa Barbara, addressing questions about solar panel installation, costs, and ownership options.

In this episode, Kyle Kemp, the regional vice president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, offers valuable insights into California’s ever-evolving real estate market. The discussion covers trends that affect the stability of owning housing in Santa Barbara/Montecito and shifting buyer preferences toward the most finished properties. We explore the varying characteristics of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. Kyle breaks through misconceptions about Santa Barbara’s affordability and highlights the appealing lifestyle it offers. The episode concludes by looking at technology and AI’s role in real estate.

Explore the rich history of Santa Barbara’s Mission Canyon. We delve into the evolution of the mission, architectural challenges, and periods of secular use. We uncover the development of Mission Canyon, creation of water systems, significant landmarks -like the Rockwood Inn, and the transformative impact of the 1911 mission tunnel. A Santa Barbara key focus is the preservation efforts, spotlighting attractions such as the Botanic Gardens and the Rose Garden Park. We end the episode highlighting the area’s allure for hiking and its reputation as a sought-after residential neighborhood in Santa Barbara.

This episode features an interview with Shaun Tomson, Montecito resident, world champion surfer, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and environmentalist. We discuss Shaun’s fascinating life journey, from his origins in South Africa to his career transitions. Shaun’s unique story of purchasing his Montecito home after a chance encounter, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and being open to unexpected possibilities. Throughout the conversation, Shaun speaks about the significance of purpose, commitment, and hope in shaping one’s life. Shaun has developed a 12-line code of commitments, reflecting on his experiences speaking to diverse audiences, from schools to corporations, and how this simple exercise can empower and motivate individuals to live with intent and purpose.

Kelli Ellis, an expert in design psychology, star in The Design Network’s Extravagant Spaces, Design Therapy, and MidMod: Then and Now, discusses her work with real estate and interior design. Kelli shares insights on staging properties for sale, emphasizing the importance of understanding buyers’ emotional connections to spaces. Her advice on creating welcoming environments through color, texture, and flow, prioritizes the emotional impact of a space, over strictly following design rules. She touches on trends like biophilic design, bringing nature indoors, and provides practical tips for setting up homes for sale while allowing potential buyers to envision their own memories in the space. This episode underscores the intersection of design psychology, real estate, and creating spaces that resonate with people on a personal level.

Allan is a recently retired Senior Vice President for Research and Development at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. He is a former CEO of realtor.com, former President and Co-owner of a 60-office East Coast Real Estate Brokerage, spent many years owning and managing real estate offices, and finally, a former Boston Celtic draft choice.

In this exclusive interview, Allan reveals the secrets to choosing the right real estate agent and sheds light on the vital components of a successful agent-client relationship. We discuss the evolving industry, technological advancements, and the influence of artificial intelligence in crafting compelling narratives for properties. Learn from Allan Dalton’s vast experience and predictions for the future of real estate.

Nick Van Valkenberg, a real estate AI specialist with over a decade of industry experience. We discuss AI’s impact on real estate, focusing on personalization, virtual reality, and ethical considerations. Nick emphasizes AI’s role in simplifying the home search and addresses concerns about job displacement. The conversation also explores tools for sellers, promoting a positive outlook on AI’s benefits. Nick shares insights on AI’s exponential growth, likening it to a tsunami of change.

In this episode, we’re joined by Daniel Encell, a seasoned Realtor specializing in Montecito real estate. Daniel reflects on his transition from law to real estate, utilizing his legal expertise to navigate intricate transactions. We delve into details of representing both buyers and sellers, explore effective marketing strategies, and unravel the intricacies of high-end real estate in the vibrant landscape of Montecito.

This episode provides a captivating glimpse into the diverse and historically significant past of the Westside. We trace its evolution from mid-1800s farmland, highlighting key figures like Albert Packard and Joseph Sexton. Delving into the impact of the railroad and Cottage Hospital, we explore landmarks such as Oak Park and the Flying A Studio, each contributing to the area’s unique historical charm despite its ties to Hollywood. Additionally, we discuss the transformation of Las Positas Valley into Ealing’s Park, the largest privately funded park in the US.

In this podcast episode, Jonathan and Scott explore real estate investment in Spain with expert guest Stacy Viva. Stacy, with over a decade of experience in the Spanish market, shares insights into current trends and dynamics.

We discuss the surge in American interest in Spanish real estate, highlighting the appeal of Spain’s lifestyle, culture, and landscapes. Prime investment locations, from cities like Madrid and Barcelona to coastal towns like Marbella and Malaga, are identified, with emphasis on rental potential and demand.

Gavin Palmer, owner of VirTour Media, the leading real estate media provider in Santa Barbara County. Gavin shares insights into his work, providing high-quality marketing materials including professional photography, videos, virtual tours, and more. Scott, who has worked with Gavin extensively, discusses how VirTour Media has expanded his real estate marketing capabilities. The conversation delves into common mistakes homeowners make when marketing their properties and the importance of professional media in the competitive real estate market. We explore emerging trends in real estate technology, highlighting the dedication and innovation behind VirTour Media’s success.

We dive into the fascinating history of the Samarkand community in Santa Barbara. Exploring the origins of the neighborhood’s unique name, its transformation from grazing land to a luxury hotel, and its eventual evolution into a popular retirement community. This episode touches on the real estate lessons learned from the area’s past, highlighting the importance of location and timing in the success of any venture. Tune in to discover more about this neighborhood.