Gema Smith's Blog

Posted on 07/21/2025
Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing – How That Helps Today’s Buyers
Over the past few years, affordability has been the biggest challenge for homebuyers. Between rapidly rising home prices and higher mortgage rates, many have felt stuck between a rock and a hard place. But, something pretty encouraging is happening. While affordability is still tight, mortgage rates have shown signs of stabilizing in recent months. And that may finally...
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Posted on 07/21/2025
Don’t Make These Mistakes When Selling Your House
Are you thinking about selling your house? Some common mistakes today can make the process more stressful or even cost you money. Fortunately, they’re easy to avoid, as long as you know what to watch for. Let’s break down the biggest seller slip-ups, and how an agent helps you steer clear of them. 1. Overpricing Your House It’s...
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Posted on 07/20/2025
Top techniques to use when approaching home selling challenges
The home selling process can be stressful due to all...
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Posted on 07/17/2025
5 Easy Ways to Feel More Confident About Your Retirement Plan
What’s the real key to enjoying peace of mind in retirement? It’s not luck or a windfall—it’s preparation. The more thought and intention you put into your financial planning today, the more secure you’ll feel tomorrow. Whether you're worried about having enough saved or still working to eliminate debt, these five practical steps can help you build retirement...
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Posted on 07/17/2025
Why Exercise Matters More as We Age
As our bodies change over time, so do the reasons and methods for staying physically fit. While movement benefits everyone, older adults often experience more noticeable improvements in health and wellness from regular exercise. Health experts agree that staying active — within safe and appropriate limits — is essential to longevity and quality of life. Key benefits of...
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Posted on 07/17/2025
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future: Finding Harmony in Growth
Hillary DePiano once wrote, "You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind." It’s a beautiful reminder that moving forward doesn’t mean letting go of where we’ve been — it means taking what we’ve learned and using it to shape what comes next. In both our personal and professional lives, progress requires a delicate balance: staying...
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Posted on 07/17/2025
Real Estate and Retirement: A Strategic Approach to Long-Term Security
Planning for retirement is one of the most important financial steps anyone can take. As people near retirement age, they often look for stable and growth-oriented options to safeguard their future. Real estate stands out as a powerful tool that can contribute significantly to a secure and comfortable retirement. Why Retirement Planning Matters Preparing for retirement means setting...
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Posted on 07/16/2025
Wondering If Homes Are Still Selling? They Are – Every Single Minute
You’ve probably seen headlines lately about home sales being lower than last year. That might make you wonder: Is now really a good time to sell? The truth is, while today’s housing market isn’t as fast-paced as it was during the peak frenzy a few years ago, that doesn’t mean it’s inactive. What we’re seeing is a market...
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Posted on 07/14/2025
The Advice First-Time Homebuyers Need To Hear
Buying your first home is a big milestone – and the right support is going to make it a whole lot easier. Because while this process might be brand new to you, it’s not new to your agent. They’ve helped plenty of first-time buyers through it. They know what works, what actually matters, and how you can move...
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Posted on 07/14/2025
Selling and Buying at the Same Time Here’s What You Need To Know
If you're a homeowner planning to move, you're probably wondering what the process is going to look like and what you should tackle first: Is it better to start by finding your next home? Or should you sell your current house before you go out looking? Ultimately, what’s right for you depends on a lot of factors. And...
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Posted on 07/22/2025
9357 Rodeo Dr, Gilroy, CA 95020 is now new to the market!
Listed by Compass - DRE# 01128805
Welcome to 9357 Rodeo Drive aspacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offering 2,658 sq ft of comfortable living in a desirable Gilroy neighborhood. This thoughtfully designed home features a full bedroom and bathroom on the first level, perfect for guests or multi-generational living. Rich chocolate hardwood flooring and custom paint decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the main floor. Enjoy multiple living spaces including a formal living with a LED fireplace area and a separate family . The open-concept kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and a cozy eat-in area, ideal for casual dining. Upstairs,...
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Posted on 07/20/2025
Another Property Sold - 548 Mill Pond Dr 548, San Jose, CA 95125
Listed by Silicon Valley Realty Network - DRE# 01240512
Welcome to your new home in the vibrant city of San Jose! This charming residence offers 1,440 square feet of comfortable living space, featuring two bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The kitchen is well-equipped with a gas oven range, refrigerator, and ample pantry cabinet storage, perfect for the home chef. The living area is designed with cozy carpet flooring creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Central AC ensures comfort throughout the year, while gas heating provides efficient warmth during cooler months. Additional amenities include a convenient washer and dryer for all your laundry needs. With a dining area to entertain guests and a...
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