Claudia Backus, MBA

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Author: Claudia Backus, MBA

  • What Is a Contingency in a Real Estate Offer? What California Home Sellers Should Understand

    What Is a Contingency in a Real Estate Offer? What California Home Sellers Should Understand

    Receiving an offer on your home can be exciting, especially when the price looks good. It is natural for a seller’s attention to go immediately to that number, but the purchase price is only one part of an offer.

    The terms of the offer matter too, and contingencies are among the terms sellers should understand before deciding how strong an offer really is.

    A contingency generally gives a buyer the ability to move forward with the purchase subject to certain conditions. Depending on the terms of the contract, those conditions may involve the buyer’s investigation of the property, financing, an appraisal, or other circumstances addressed in the agreement.

    For a seller, understanding those contingencies can make it easier to evaluate an offer as a whole rather than looking at the purchase price alone.

    Why Contingencies Matter to a Seller

    When a seller accepts an offer, the transaction begins moving toward closing, but that does not necessarily mean every uncertainty has disappeared.

    A buyer may still have important steps to complete during the transaction. The buyer may investigate the condition of the property, work with a lender to obtain financing, or have the property appraised.

    The specific rights and obligations of the parties depend on the contract they sign, which is why sellers should pay attention not only to whether an offer contains contingencies, but also to what those contingencies actually say and how much time is provided for them.

    An offer with a higher price is not automatically the strongest offer if other terms create substantially more uncertainty for the seller.

    An Investigation Contingency Can Give the Buyer Time to Learn More About the Property

    Buying a home is a significant financial decision, and buyers commonly want an opportunity to investigate the property.

    Depending on the transaction and the contract, this period may involve inspections or other investigations that help the buyer learn more about the home’s condition.

    Sellers sometimes hear the word inspection and assume the purpose is simply to create a list of repairs. In reality, the investigation period can be much broader. It gives a buyer an opportunity to gather information about the property and make decisions based on what is discovered, subject to the terms of the agreement.

    For the seller, the important point is to understand what the contract allows, the applicable deadlines, and what may happen if an issue is discovered.

    Financing Is Another Important Part of an Offer

    When a buyer is obtaining a loan to purchase the property, financing can be an important part of the transaction.

    A buyer may appear financially strong and may even have a lender’s preapproval, but a preapproval is not the same as a completed loan. The lender may still need to review documents, verify information, evaluate the property, and complete its underwriting process.

    This is one reason sellers should look beyond the offer price and consider the buyer’s financing terms as part of the overall offer.

    The amount of the down payment, the type of financing, the contingency terms, and the time provided for the buyer to complete certain steps can all be relevant when evaluating the transaction.

    The Appraisal Can Matter When Financing Is Involved

    An appraisal is another part of many financed real estate transactions.

    The lender generally wants an independent opinion of the property’s value because the property is being used as security for the loan. If the appraisal supports the purchase price, this part of the process may proceed without much attention from the seller.

    If the appraised value comes in below the purchase price, however, the situation can become more complicated.

    What happens next depends on the contract, the financing, and the decisions made by the parties. The buyer and seller may need to consider their options based on the specific circumstances of the transaction.

    This is another example of why the highest purchase price on paper does not tell the entire story.

    Fewer Contingencies Do Not Automatically Mean the Best Offer

    From a seller’s perspective, an offer with fewer uncertainties may initially appear more attractive. However, it is important not to evaluate an offer based on one term alone.

    Purchase price, financing, deposit, contingency periods, closing date, possession, and other terms can all contribute to the overall strength of an offer.

    The seller’s priorities matter as well.

    A seller who needs a particular closing date may evaluate two offers differently from a seller whose primary goal is maximizing price. Another seller may place greater importance on the likelihood of the transaction reaching closing without unnecessary complications.

    There is no universal formula that identifies the best offer for every homeowner.

    Real estate appraiser evaluating the exterior of a Los Angeles home as part of the home purchase process.
    An appraisal can be an important part of a financed home purchase because the lender generally wants an independent opinion of the property’s value.

    Pay Attention to the Deadlines

    Real estate contracts contain important dates and deadlines, and contingency periods can be among them.

    Once an offer is accepted, both buyers and sellers should understand what is expected during the transaction and when certain actions are supposed to occur.

    A seller does not need to memorize every provision of a real estate contract before putting a home on the market. However, when an offer arrives, it is worth slowing down enough to understand the terms before making a decision.

    A purchase agreement is a contract, not simply a statement of how much someone is willing to pay for the house.

    Look at the Entire Offer Before Making a Decision

    It can be tempting to compare offers by putting the prices next to each other and choosing the largest number. In reality, evaluating an offer requires a more complete picture.

    The price matters, but so do the contingencies, financing, timelines, deposit, closing terms, and the seller’s own priorities.

    Understanding those pieces does not mean a seller needs to become an expert in real estate contracts. It means asking questions and understanding what is being agreed to before signing.

    When an offer arrives, the goal should not simply be to find the highest number. It should be to understand the entire offer and make an informed decision about which terms make the most sense for the seller and the property.

    With gratitude and a heart for service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker
    REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside of Los Angeles

  • Should You Make Repairs Before Selling Your Home? What Los Angeles Sellers Should Consider

    Should You Make Repairs Before Selling Your Home? What Los Angeles Sellers Should Consider

    One of the questions homeowners often face before putting a property on the market is whether they should make repairs first or simply sell the home in its current condition.

    It sounds like a simple decision, but it rarely is. Some repairs can make a home easier to sell and help buyers feel more comfortable with the property. Other improvements may cost far more than they ultimately contribute to the sale. In Los Angeles, where buyers can encounter everything from beautifully renovated homes to properties that have not been updated in decades, there is no single answer that works for every seller.

    The better question may be: Which repairs actually matter for this particular home, in this particular market, and for the buyers most likely to purchase it?

    Start With the Difference Between Repairs and Improvements

    Repairs and improvements are not necessarily the same thing.

    A repair addresses something that is damaged, broken, leaking, unsafe, or not functioning properly. An improvement changes or upgrades the home, such as replacing an older kitchen that still works with a brand new one.

    That distinction matters because sellers can easily begin with a short repair list and suddenly find themselves considering new countertops, new flooring, new appliances, new landscaping, and an entire list of cosmetic upgrades.

    Before spending that money, it is important to understand what problem you are actually trying to solve.

    If a leaking faucet, broken door, damaged wall, or nonfunctioning light fixture can be repaired relatively easily, taking care of it may prevent a buyer from wondering what else has been neglected. A major renovation, however, requires a much more careful analysis.

    Buyers Notice the Small Things Too

    When homeowners have lived in a property for many years, they naturally become accustomed to its little imperfections. A door that sticks, a cabinet handle that is loose, or a light switch that does not work may barely register anymore.

    A buyer is seeing the home for the first time.

    Small visible problems can sometimes influence the way a buyer perceives the rest of the property. One minor issue is usually just a minor issue, but several of them together can create the impression that the home has not been well maintained.

    This does not mean a house needs to be perfect before it can be sold. It simply means that relatively inexpensive repairs may deserve attention when they improve the overall impression of care.

    Be Careful About Renovating for Someone Else

    One of the biggest risks sellers face is spending significant money creating a home that reflects their own taste rather than the future buyer’s.

    Imagine spending thousands of dollars choosing new flooring, fixtures, or finishes only to discover that the eventual buyer would have preferred something completely different.

    This can be particularly important with kitchens and bathrooms because renovations can become expensive very quickly. A seller may assume that a new kitchen will automatically increase the sale price by at least the amount spent on the renovation, but real estate does not always work that way.

    The value of an improvement depends on many factors, including the neighborhood, the property’s price range, the quality of the work, the current competition, and what buyers in that particular market expect.

    Sometimes the better decision is to allow buyers to see the home’s potential and make their own choices after purchasing it.

    Homeowner reviewing repair notes while walking through a bright Los Angeles home before listing it for sale.
    Thoughtful repairs can improve the way a home presents to buyers, but sellers do not necessarily need to renovate everything before putting a property on the market.

    Consider How Your Home Compares With the Competition

    The condition of competing homes matters.

    If buyers looking in your neighborhood are primarily seeing renovated properties and your home requires significant work, condition may affect both the price buyers are willing to pay and the way the property should be positioned.

    On the other hand, an older home does not automatically need to be transformed into a newly renovated one before it can compete.

    Some buyers specifically look for homes they can personalize. Others may value the location, lot, floor plan, architectural character, or potential more than updated finishes.

    This is why decisions about repairs should not be made in isolation. Looking at comparable properties can help a seller understand what buyers are currently seeing and what they may expect at a particular price.

    Think About the Seller’s Priorities Too

    The best decision is not based only on the house. It also depends on the seller.

    One homeowner may have the time, money, and desire to complete repairs before listing. Another may need to sell quickly and prefer not to manage contractors or take on additional expenses.

    Those are both legitimate considerations.

    Selling a home is not simply an exercise in achieving the highest theoretical price. Sellers also have to consider timing, convenience, available cash, stress, and what makes sense for their individual circumstances.

    Sometimes preparing a property more extensively is worthwhile. Sometimes selling it in its current condition is the more practical choice.

    Get Information Before You Start Spending

    Before beginning a long list of projects, it can be helpful to first understand how the home is likely to compete in the current market.

    Which issues are likely to matter to buyers? Which ones are mostly cosmetic? Are there relatively simple repairs that could improve the home’s presentation? Would a major renovation make financial sense, or would the seller be better served by adjusting the pricing strategy?

    These questions are easier to answer when the property’s condition is considered alongside comparable sales, current listings, buyer expectations, and the seller’s own goals.

    A home does not have to be perfect to be marketable, and sellers should not assume that every dollar spent before a sale will automatically come back to them.

    The goal is not necessarily to fix everything. It is to make thoughtful decisions about what is worth addressing and what may be better left for the next owner.

    With gratitude and a heart for service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker
    REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside of Los Angeles

  • What Happens After You Accept an Offer on Your Home? A Guide for California Sellers

    What Happens After You Accept an Offer on Your Home? A Guide for California Sellers

    What Happens After You Accept an Offer on Your Home? A Guide for California Sellers

    Receiving an offer on your home can be exciting, and accepting one can feel like a major milestone. But for a seller, an accepted offer is not the end of the process. In many ways, it begins the next important stage of the transaction.

    Once a home is under contract, there are still several steps that may need to happen before the sale closes. Depending on the terms of the agreement, these can include the buyer’s deposit, inspections, disclosures, an appraisal, financing, contingency periods, requests for repairs or credits, and the final steps leading to closing.

    Understanding what may happen after accepting an offer can help sellers feel more prepared and make better decisions throughout the transaction.

    The Purchase Agreement Becomes Your Road Map

    Once an offer has been accepted and a contract has been formed, the purchase agreement becomes an important road map for the transaction.

    The agreement establishes the price and other terms the buyer and seller have agreed upon. It can also include important deadlines and contingency provisions.

    This is why I believe sellers should look beyond the purchase price when reviewing an offer. Two buyers offering the same amount of money may be proposing very different terms.

    Before accepting an offer, it is important to understand not only what the buyer is offering to pay, but also what the agreement will require from both sides after acceptance.

    The Buyer’s Deposit

    The purchase agreement may require the buyer to place an initial deposit into escrow within the time specified in the contract.

    Sellers sometimes hear the phrase earnest money deposit used to describe this money. The deposit demonstrates the buyer’s commitment to the transaction, but its treatment is governed by the purchase agreement and applicable California law.

    A seller should not assume that accepting an offer means the deposit immediately belongs to the seller if the transaction does not close. What happens to a deposit can depend on the circumstances, the contract, contingencies, and other legal considerations.

    This is one of the reasons the details of the purchase agreement matter so much.

    Home inspection taking place at a Los Angeles area house after a seller accepts a buyer's offer
    After an offer is accepted, a home inspection can help buyers learn more about the property and may lead to additional questions or discussions before closing.

    Inspections May Bring New Questions

    If the buyer has an investigation or inspection contingency, the period after acceptance may include inspections of the property.

    A general home inspection is common, but depending on the property and the buyer’s concerns, additional inspections may also be requested.

    An inspection does not necessarily mean something is wrong with the house. Buyers use inspections to learn more about the property they are purchasing.

    The results, however, can lead to additional conversations.

    A buyer may accept the property as it is, request repairs, ask for a credit, seek a price adjustment, request additional information, or exercise rights available under the contract.

    A request from a buyer does not automatically mean a seller must agree to it. The response will depend on the purchase agreement, the circumstances, and what the seller believes is appropriate.

    The Appraisal Can Matter When the Buyer Is Financing

    When a buyer is obtaining a mortgage, the lender may require an appraisal.

    The appraiser provides an opinion of the property’s value for the lender. This is different from the home inspection, which focuses primarily on the property’s physical condition.

    If the property appraises at or above the amount needed for the buyer’s financing, this part of the transaction may proceed without much discussion.

    If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, the situation can become more complicated. What happens next depends on the contract, including whether the buyer has an appraisal contingency, as well as the buyer’s financing and the decisions made by the parties.

    This is another example of why the strongest offer is not always determined by price alone.

    The Buyer’s Loan Continues Through the Process

    A buyer who has been preapproved for financing still has work to complete after the offer is accepted.

    The lender may continue reviewing the buyer’s income, assets, credit, employment, property information, appraisal, and other documentation before giving final loan approval.

    From a seller’s perspective, this is why the financial strength of an offer can be important when evaluating buyers.

    A preapproval can provide useful information, but it is not the same as a guarantee that a loan will ultimately fund.

    Contingencies and Deadlines Matter

    Contingencies are an important part of many residential purchase agreements.

    Depending on the contract, a buyer may have contingencies related to investigations, an appraisal, financing, or other matters. The specific rights and deadlines depend on the actual agreement.

    Sellers should understand which contingencies are included in the accepted offer and the time periods associated with them.

    As the transaction progresses, there may be points when the buyer is asked to remove certain contingencies in accordance with the contract.

    Rather than focusing only on the anticipated closing date, I think sellers benefit from understanding the smaller contractual milestones that occur along the way.

    What Happens If the Buyer Requests Repairs?

    After inspections, sellers sometimes receive a request for repairs or other concessions.

    This can make homeowners nervous, particularly if they believed the price had already been fully negotiated.

    In reality, an inspection period can create another point of discussion between the parties.

    The buyer may identify items that were not obvious when the offer was written. The seller then needs to evaluate the request and decide how to respond based on the contract and circumstances.

    There is no universal answer to every repair request. The condition of the property, the nature of the issue, the strength of the transaction, other available options, and the seller’s priorities can all matter.

    The goal should be to make a thoughtful decision rather than reacting emotionally to the request.

    Preparing for the Final Days Before Closing

    As the transaction moves toward closing, escrow and the professionals involved in the transaction coordinate the documents and requirements necessary to complete the sale.

    The buyer may conduct a final verification of the property’s condition before closing, subject to the terms of the agreement.

    Sellers should also make sure they understand when they are expected to move out, what condition the property should be left in, which items are included in the sale, and when possession will transfer.

    These details are worth discussing well before the final day.

    Closing and the Transfer of Ownership

    In California, signing documents is an important step, but signing alone does not necessarily mean the sale has officially closed.

    The transaction generally reaches closing when the required funds and documents have been handled and the deed transferring ownership is recorded with the county.

    Once the transaction closes, the seller receives the proceeds due to them through escrow after applicable loans, costs, commissions, taxes, or other amounts associated with the transaction have been accounted for.

    The exact timing and details depend on the individual transaction.

    An Accepted Offer Is an Important Beginning

    Selling a home involves much more than finding someone willing to buy it.

    The period between accepting an offer and closing is where many of the details of the transaction are worked through. Inspections, financing, appraisal, contingencies, disclosures, escrow, and contractual deadlines can all play a role.

    Knowing this before you list can also help you evaluate offers more thoughtfully when they arrive.

    If you are considering selling a home in Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, or elsewhere on the Westside of Los Angeles, I would be happy to walk you through the process from preparing the property and reviewing the MLS data to evaluating offers and understanding what happens after your home goes under contract.

    My goal is for sellers to understand not only what they are signing, but what comes next.

    With gratitude and a heart for service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker | REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside of Los Angeles

  • What Do You Have to Disclose When Selling a Home in California? A Guide for Los Angeles Homeowners

    What Do You Have to Disclose When Selling a Home in California? A Guide for Los Angeles Homeowners

    What Do You Have to Disclose When Selling a Home in California? A Guide for Los Angeles Homeowners

    When homeowners start thinking about selling, much of the attention naturally goes to preparing the house, choosing a listing price, taking photographs, and getting the property on the market. There is another part of the process that may not be as exciting, but it is extremely important: disclosures.

    California has extensive disclosure requirements for residential real estate transactions. Sellers may be asked to provide information about the property, its condition, known defects, improvements, hazards, and other circumstances that could affect a buyer’s decision.

    For a homeowner who has lived in the same property for many years, completing disclosures can sometimes feel overwhelming. You may know a great deal about your home, but you may not immediately remember every repair, leak, improvement, insurance claim, or issue that has occurred over the years.

    Understanding the purpose of disclosures before you sell can make this part of the process much easier.

    What Is the Purpose of Seller Disclosures?

    The basic idea behind disclosures is transparency.

    A buyer is making a significant financial decision and needs information about the property to evaluate that decision. Some things are easy for a buyer to see during a showing. Other things may not be visible at all.

    A buyer walking through a beautifully presented home, for example, may have no way of knowing about a previous roof leak, drainage problem, unpermitted alteration, or other issue unless that information is disclosed.

    California residential transactions can involve several disclosure documents depending on the property and circumstances. One of the best known is the Transfer Disclosure Statement, commonly referred to as the TDS.

    The TDS asks sellers questions about the property and about conditions or issues they are aware of.

    What Types of Things Might a Seller Need to Disclose?

    The exact disclosures required depend on the property and transaction, which is why sellers should receive guidance specific to their situation.

    Generally, disclosures can involve information about the physical condition of the property and known issues that may affect its value or desirability.

    Examples can include previous water intrusion, roof problems, structural modifications, drainage or grading concerns, environmental hazards, certain neighborhood nuisances, additions or alterations completed without required permits, and damage associated with events such as fires, floods, earthquakes, or landslides.

    There may also be additional disclosure requirements depending on factors such as the property’s location, age, ownership structure, and circumstances of the sale.

    The important point for sellers is not to try to memorize every possible disclosure before listing their home. It is to understand that disclosure is a meaningful part of the transaction and deserves careful attention.

    What If an Issue Was Repaired Years Ago?

    This is a question homeowners may naturally have.

    If something happened in the past and was repaired, it can be tempting to assume that it no longer matters because the problem has been resolved.

    However, a previous condition may still be relevant to the disclosure process.

    For example, if there was water intrusion several years ago and the source was repaired, the history of that issue may still be information that should be addressed in the appropriate disclosure documents.

    Rather than deciding on your own that an old problem is no longer important, discuss it with your real estate professional and, when appropriate, obtain legal or other professional advice.

    Being transparent about a past issue does not automatically make a property undesirable. Homes require maintenance and repairs. Buyers generally understand that.

    Problems are more likely to arise when important information is discovered later and the buyer believes it should have been disclosed earlier.

    What About Improvements and Permits?

    Many Los Angeles homes have been remodeled, expanded, or changed over time.

    A homeowner may have replaced windows, remodeled a kitchen, added a bathroom, converted space, built a deck, changed electrical systems, or completed other improvements.

    If you are preparing to sell, it can be useful to start gathering whatever records you have relating to significant work on the property.

    Depending on the circumstances, questions about permits, structural modifications, alterations, or repairs may become part of the disclosure process.

    If you do not know whether previous work was permitted, particularly work completed before you owned the property, do not guess. Explain what you actually know and seek appropriate guidance about how the information should be handled.

    What If You Truly Do Not Know?

    Sellers are not expected to magically know everything that has ever happened to a property.

    There is an important difference between something you genuinely do not know and something you know but choose not to disclose.

    When completing disclosures, sellers should answer carefully based on their actual knowledge rather than making assumptions.

    This is another reason I would not recommend rushing through disclosure documents. Read the questions carefully, think about your history with the property, and ask questions when you do not understand what a form is asking.

    Home records, repair receipts, permits and house keys organized on a table while preparing to sell a home.
    Gathering information about repairs, improvements and the history of a property can help homeowners prepare for the disclosure process before selling.

    Preparing Before Your Home Goes on the Market

    If you are considering selling, you can make the disclosure process easier by gathering information about your home before you need it.

    Look for invoices from major repairs, permits you may have retained, warranties, information about improvements, insurance related records that may be relevant, and documents associated with systems such as the roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or solar.

    You do not need to create a perfect history of your house. Many homeowners simply do not have every document from every repair.

    The goal is to begin organizing what you do have and thinking carefully about what you know about the property.

    This can also help you identify questions that should be addressed before the home is actively marketed.

    Why Transparency Can Help a Transaction

    Sellers sometimes worry that disclosing a problem will discourage a buyer.

    That concern is understandable, but buyers also appreciate having information that helps them make an informed decision.

    A home does not need to be perfect to sell. In Los Angeles, buyers purchase homes of different ages and conditions every day.

    Providing information early can allow buyers to evaluate the property, conduct their inspections, ask questions, and decide whether the home is right for them.

    It can also reduce the possibility of a buyer learning something later in the transaction that comes as a surprise.

    Disclosures Are One Part of Preparing to Sell

    When I think about preparing a home for the market, I do not think only about photographs, staging, price, and marketing.

    I also think about the information behind the property.

    What has happened to the home over the years? What improvements have been made? Are there documents that should be located? Are there questions that should be answered before buyers begin looking at the property?

    Addressing these things early can make the selling process more organized and help sellers understand what to expect before an offer arrives.

    If you are considering selling a home in Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, or elsewhere on the Westside of Los Angeles, I would be happy to help you look at the steps involved in preparing your property for the market, including the disclosure process and the information you may want to begin gathering.

    Every property has its own history. Understanding that history and presenting it thoughtfully is an important part of preparing for a successful sale.

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker | REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside of Los Angeles

  • Should You Price Your Home to Get Multiple Offers? What Los Angeles Sellers Need to Know

    Should You Price Your Home to Get Multiple Offers? What Los Angeles Sellers Need to Know

    Should You Price Your Home to Get Multiple Offers? What Los Angeles Sellers Need to Know

    When homeowners prepare to sell, one of the biggest decisions they have to make is also one of the first: What should the listing price be?

    It can be tempting to think that the best strategy is simply to start as high as possible and see what happens. On the other hand, sellers sometimes hear that they should price their home lower in hopes of attracting several buyers and creating multiple offers.

    Both ideas can sound reasonable, but neither should be applied automatically. The right pricing strategy depends on the property, the competition, current buyer activity, and what is happening in the local market at the time the home is listed.

    For Los Angeles homeowners, where conditions can vary significantly from one neighborhood to another, understanding that context is especially important.

    What Does It Mean to Price for Multiple Offers?

    Pricing for multiple offers generally means choosing a listing price designed to attract a larger pool of qualified buyers and encourage competition for the property.

    That does not necessarily mean pricing a home far below its value. It means looking carefully at comparable sales, current competing listings, recent buyer activity, the condition of the property, and the price ranges buyers are currently searching.

    If several buyers see value in the same property at the same time, competition may develop naturally. Some buyers may decide to improve their price or terms because they know they are not the only interested party.

    However, multiple offers are never guaranteed. A seller can choose a thoughtful and competitive listing price and still receive one offer, several offers, or no immediate offers at all.

    The Market Has to Support the Strategy

    Before deciding how to price a home, I believe it is important to understand what buyers are actually doing in that specific market.

    How many similar homes are currently available? How long are they taking to sell? Are homes selling close to their original asking prices? Are new listings receiving immediate attention, or are buyers taking more time to make decisions?

    These questions provide much more useful information than simply assuming that a strategy that worked for another property will work for yours.

    Even within Los Angeles, two nearby neighborhoods can behave differently. The same can be true within a neighborhood when homes fall into different price ranges or offer very different features.

    This is one reason I pay close attention to active inventory in addition to recently sold properties. Sold homes tell us what buyers were willing to pay in the recent past. Active listings show us what your home would be competing against if it entered the market today.

    The Asking Price Is Part of Your Marketing

    Sellers sometimes think about price only as the amount they ultimately want to receive for their home. I also think of the listing price as part of the property’s marketing strategy.

    Before buyers schedule a showing, they are usually looking at homes online and comparing several options. Price affects whether a property appears in their search and how it compares with the other homes they are considering.

    A home can be beautiful and well presented, but if buyers perceive the asking price as disconnected from the market, some may decide not to see it at all.

    That matters because the first goal of marketing a home is to get the right buyers interested enough to take the next step and see the property.

    Could Pricing Too Low Be a Risk?

    Yes, which is why pricing for competition should never mean choosing an artificially low number simply to generate attention.

    There is no guarantee that buyers will bid a property up to the price a seller hopes to receive.

    The listing price should be a number the seller understands and is comfortable putting into the market as part of an overall strategy. The goal is not to gamble on a bidding war. The goal is to position the property intelligently based on the available information.

    Could Pricing Too High Be a Risk?

    Pricing too high can create a different problem.

    When buyers have access to many listings and can compare homes quickly, they often recognize when a property appears expensive relative to similar choices. Instead of making a lower offer, some buyers may simply move on to another home.

    If that happens repeatedly, the property can accumulate days on market. A later price adjustment may generate new interest, but by then buyers may also begin wondering why the home has not sold.

    This does not mean a seller should automatically choose a low listing price. It means the original price should be supported by the market as much as possible.

    The Highest Offer Is Not Always the Best Offer

    If a pricing strategy does result in multiple offers, sellers then have another decision to make.

    The offer with the highest purchase price is not automatically the strongest offer.

    Price matters, but so do financing, contingencies, the proposed closing timeline, the buyer’s deposit, and other terms of the transaction. A slightly lower offer with strong financing and terms that work well for the seller may sometimes be more attractive than a higher offer with greater uncertainty.

    Every offer should be evaluated as a complete package.

    Real estate broker reviewing comparable home sales and active listings to determine a pricing strategy for a Los Angeles home seller
    A thoughtful pricing strategy considers recent sales, current competition and how buyers are responding to similar homes in the local market.

    What I Would Look at Before Pricing a Los Angeles Home

    Before recommending a pricing strategy, I would want to understand the property and the seller’s goals first.

    I would then look at comparable sales, current listings, pending activity when available, days on market, price changes, neighborhood competition, property condition, and the way buyers appear to be responding to similar homes.

    I would also want to know what makes the property different.

    A remodeled home may compete differently from one that needs significant updating. A home with a view, an unusual lot, a desirable location, or another feature that is difficult to replicate may require additional judgment when comparing it with recent sales.

    The numbers provide the foundation, but they still need context.

    There Is No Universal Pricing Formula

    One of the things I continue to appreciate about real estate is that the more market information we have, the better the questions we can ask.

    There is no single pricing strategy that makes sense for every seller.

    Sometimes pricing very close to expected market value may be appropriate. In another situation, positioning a property to encourage greater buyer interest may make sense. There may also be circumstances where the characteristics of a particular home require a different approach entirely.

    The important part is understanding why a price is being chosen and what the seller hopes that strategy will accomplish.

    If you are considering selling a home in Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, or elsewhere on the Westside of Los Angeles, I would be happy to help you look at the current MLS data, comparable properties, and competition before deciding on a strategy.

    For me, pricing should not begin with a guess. It should begin with information, a conversation about the seller’s goals, and a careful look at the market the home is actually entering.

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker | REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside of Los Angeles

  • Before Your Home Hits the Market: Why Showing Access Matters More Than Sellers May Realize

    Before Your Home Hits the Market: Why Showing Access Matters More Than Sellers May Realize

    When homeowners prepare to sell, much of the attention naturally goes to the listing price, photographs, condition of the property, and marketing. Those things matter. But there is another part of a selling strategy that may receive much less attention: how easy or difficult it will be for prospective buyers to actually see the home.

    A beautiful listing can attract attention online, but at some point a serious buyer usually needs to walk through the property.

    That makes showing access more important than it may initially seem.

    Buyers Have Schedules Too

    Selling a home can be disruptive, especially when the seller is still living there. I understand why a homeowner might prefer very limited showing hours or plenty of advance notice.

    At the same time, buyers are working around their own schedules. They may have jobs, children, school commitments, travel plans, or several homes they are trying to see in one afternoon.

    Sometimes the time that is most convenient for a buyer will not be the most convenient time for the seller.

    That does not mean a homeowner should give up reasonable boundaries or allow people into the property whenever they want. It means showing availability should be considered as part of the overall selling strategy rather than treated as an afterthought.

    A Buyer Cannot Fully Experience a Home Online

    Real estate photography can be wonderful. Floor plans, property descriptions, virtual tours, and online listing information can help buyers learn a tremendous amount before scheduling a showing.

    But photographs cannot tell a buyer exactly how a home feels.

    Buyers may want to understand the natural light at a particular time of day. They may want to see how one room connects to another, experience the outdoor space, look at storage, understand the relationship to neighboring properties, or simply stand inside the home and imagine living there.

    Those are experiences that are difficult to reproduce completely on a screen.

    The online listing may create interest. The showing gives the buyer an opportunity to experience the property.

    Too Many Restrictions Can Create Friction

    Every seller’s circumstances are different, and there are perfectly legitimate reasons for showing restrictions.

    A family may have young children. Someone may work from home. There may be pets to manage. A seller may have privacy concerns or need advance notice before leaving the property.

    The question is not whether restrictions are good or bad. The better question is whether the showing plan creates unnecessary obstacles for the buyers the seller is hoping to attract.

    For example, if a property can only be shown during a very narrow period on certain days, some buyers may simply be unable to make that schedule work.

    That does not necessarily mean they were not interested in the home.

    They may never have had the opportunity to see it.

    Make the Showing Experience Comfortable

    Access is only one part of a showing. The experience buyers have once they arrive matters too.

    Whenever reasonably possible, I think buyers should have enough time and space to look at the property comfortably.

    It can be difficult for someone to imagine a home as their own when the current owner is following them from room to room or explaining every feature as they walk through the house.

    Sometimes giving buyers a little space allows them to pay attention to what matters to them.

    Of course, security and the seller’s comfort matter. Showing procedures should be discussed in advance so everyone understands how appointments will work and who will have access to the property.

    Prospective buyers viewing the interior of a Los Angeles home
    Giving buyers enough time and space to experience a home can be an important part of the showing process.

    Think About Pets Before the First Showing

    Pets are part of the family, but they should also be part of the showing plan.

    Some buyers may be afraid of dogs. Others may have allergies. A pet may become anxious around strangers or could accidentally get outside while people are entering and leaving the property.

    Before the home reaches the market, sellers can decide how pets will be handled during appointments.

    Having a plan ahead of time can make showings less stressful for the seller, the buyers, and the animals.

    Consider How the Home Will Look During Showings

    The home does not need to look as though nobody lives there.

    It does help, however, when buyers can comfortably see the property.

    Simple routines can make a difference. Opening window coverings when appropriate, turning on lights in darker areas, keeping pathways clear, putting away highly personal or valuable items, and doing a quick check of kitchens and bathrooms before an appointment can help the home feel ready to be seen.

    This is also where preparation before listing can make life easier. If much of the decluttering and organizing has already happened, getting ready for an individual showing becomes less overwhelming.

    Feedback Can Become Useful Information

    After showings begin, patterns in buyer feedback may provide useful information.

    One person’s opinion is simply one person’s opinion. I would be careful about reacting dramatically to every comment.

    But if several buyers independently raise the same concern, that may be worth paying attention to.

    Perhaps buyers consistently mention a condition issue. Maybe they are confused about a feature of the property. Perhaps they like the home but are comparing it with another active listing at a different price.

    Feedback does not automatically tell a seller what to do, but repeated observations can become another piece of information to consider alongside showing activity, active competition, Days on Market, and other market data.

    More Showings Do Not Guarantee an Offer

    It is important to be realistic about what showing access can and cannot accomplish.

    Making a property easier to see does not guarantee that it will sell, and a large number of showings does not necessarily mean an offer is coming.

    Price, condition, location, competition, market conditions, and the property itself still matter.

    But unnecessarily difficult access can introduce an obstacle that has nothing to do with the qualities of the home.

    My preference is to remove avoidable friction where reasonably possible while still respecting the seller’s privacy, safety, and daily life.

    The Goal Is to Give the Right Buyer an Opportunity to See the Home

    There is a lot of technology in real estate today, and buyers can discover properties from almost anywhere.

    Still, selling a home remains a very physical experience.

    At some point, someone may need to open the front door, walk through the rooms, look out the windows, step into the backyard, and decide whether this could be the place they want to call home.

    A seller cannot control who will love the property or whether a particular buyer will make an offer.

    What a seller can do is think carefully about whether interested buyers are being given a reasonable opportunity to experience the home for themselves.

    Sometimes a seemingly small part of the listing strategy can matter more than we realize.

    With gratitude and a heart of service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker
    REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside

  • What Should You Do Before Listing Your Home for Sale? A Practical Guide for Los Angeles Homeowners

    What Should You Do Before Listing Your Home for Sale? A Practical Guide for Los Angeles Homeowners

    Selling a home involves much more than deciding on a price and putting the property on the market. Long before the listing becomes visible to buyers, there are decisions to make about the condition of the home, repairs, presentation, paperwork, photography, pricing, and how the property will be introduced to the market.

    I think this preparation stage deserves more attention because some of the most important decisions a seller makes happen before the listing ever goes live.

    If I were sitting down with a homeowner who was thinking about selling, I would want to start by looking at the entire property and asking a simple question: What should we understand and prepare before buyers begin evaluating this home?

    Start by Looking at the Home Through a Buyer’s Eyes

    Living in a home and preparing a home for sale are two very different experiences.

    When we live somewhere every day, we naturally stop noticing certain things. A scuffed wall, an overfilled closet, an older light fixture, or landscaping that needs attention can become part of the background.

    A buyer is seeing everything for the first time.

    That does not mean a seller needs to renovate the entire property. In fact, I would be very careful about spending significant money on improvements simply because a home is going on the market. The goal should be to identify what is worth addressing and what may not provide enough benefit to justify the cost.

    Sometimes cleaning, decluttering, improving lighting, touching up paint, or taking care of relatively small maintenance items can change the way a home presents without requiring a major renovation.

    Understand the Condition of the Property

    Before marketing begins, sellers should have a realistic understanding of the condition of their home.

    Are there repairs that have been postponed? Is the roof approaching the end of its useful life? Are there plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, drainage, or other issues that a buyer may eventually discover?

    A seller does not necessarily have to repair everything before listing. Sometimes it makes more sense to obtain information or estimates and consider those issues as part of the overall selling strategy.

    A presale inspection is another option a homeowner may discuss with their real estate professional. It is not required, but it can sometimes identify issues before a buyer conducts an inspection of their own.

    The important thing is not to assume that every problem needs to be fixed or that every improvement will increase the selling price by the amount spent. Each property is different.

    Start Gathering Information About the Home

    There is another part of preparing to sell that buyers never see in the listing photographs: paperwork.

    Sellers may need to gather information about repairs, improvements, permits, warranties, appliances, property systems, and other aspects of the home.

    In California, seller disclosures are an important part of the transaction. Sellers generally have obligations to disclose known material facts and conditions affecting the property. This is one reason I believe it is helpful to begin thinking about the history and condition of the home early rather than waiting until an offer arrives.

    If you replaced a roof, remodeled a kitchen, installed a new heating or cooling system, repaired previous damage, or completed other significant work, start gathering the documents you have.

    Being organized can make the transaction easier later.

    Homeowner reviewing information before listing a Los Angeles home for sale
    Good preparation before a home reaches the market can help sellers make more informed decisions throughout the selling process.

    Decide What Is Worth Improving Before You Sell

    One of the questions homeowners frequently face is how much they should improve a property before selling it.

    There is no universal answer.

    A home that has been beautifully maintained may need very little preparation. Another property may benefit from painting, landscaping, repairs, or professional staging. In some situations, selling the property in its current condition may make the most sense.

    I would rather evaluate improvements in the context of the specific home and its competition.

    What other homes are currently for sale nearby? What condition are they in? What will buyers see when they compare those properties online? What price range are we trying to compete in?

    Those questions can help separate improvements that may strengthen the presentation of a home from projects that simply consume time and money.

    Prepare the Home Before the Camera Arrives

    Today, many buyers will encounter a property online before they ever walk through the front door.

    That makes the preparation before professional photography particularly important.

    Rooms should feel clean and easy to understand. Counters may need to be cleared. Personal items may need to be reduced. Window coverings can be adjusted to improve natural light. Outdoor areas should also be considered because the first photograph a buyer sees may be the front of the property.

    Professional photography cannot completely compensate for a home that was not prepared beforehand.

    The camera records what is there.

    For that reason, I think photography should come toward the end of the preparation process, after the home is ready to be presented.

    Study the Competition Before Choosing a Listing Price

    I have written before about Comparative Market Analyses, active inventory, and Days on Market because pricing should not happen in isolation.

    Before choosing a listing price, I want to know what buyers will be comparing the home against right now.

    Recently sold properties are important because they provide evidence of what buyers have paid. But active listings matter too because those are the homes competing for the same buyers today.

    A homeowner may understandably have a number in mind. Online estimates may show another number. A nearby sale may suggest something different.

    The job is to put all of that information into context and develop a pricing strategy based on the actual property and its current market.

    Think About the Launch as a Strategy

    I also think sellers should consider how they want their property introduced to the market before the listing is entered into the MLS.

    There are decisions about timing, photographs, showing availability, listing information, marketing, and the seller’s preferred level of exposure.

    I have written separately about public and private listing options because sellers may have different priorities. For many homeowners, broad exposure is important. Other sellers may have privacy or timing considerations that need to be discussed.

    What matters is that these decisions are made intentionally and with an understanding of the potential advantages and tradeoffs.

    Preparation Does Not Mean Perfection

    Perhaps the most important thing I would tell a homeowner is that preparing a home for sale does not mean creating a perfect house.

    Homes are lived in. They age. Families grow in them. Things break and get repaired. Kitchens become dated. Floors show wear. Gardens change. Buyers understand that.

    The purpose of preparing a home is not to erase its history. It is to understand what you are selling, present it thoughtfully, organize the information buyers will need, and create a strategy that gives the property a strong introduction to the market.

    For me, that is where a good home sale really begins: before the listing goes live.

    With gratitude and a heart of service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker I REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside

  • What Does Days on Market Really Tell You When Selling a Home?

    What Does Days on Market Really Tell You When Selling a Home?

    If you are thinking about selling your home, one number you will probably hear fairly quickly is days on market, often referred to as DOM. It sounds simple. A home has been listed for a certain number of days, and that number should tell us something about how well it is selling.

    But days on market needs context.

    This was one of the ideas that stayed with me after attending theMLS Summit 2026 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. As I continue learning and working with MLS data, I find myself paying much more attention not only to the numbers themselves, but also to the story behind those numbers.

    For a homeowner preparing to sell, that distinction can be very important.

    What Does Days on Market Mean?

    Days on market generally tells us how long a property has been on the market. It can be useful when looking at an individual home, but it becomes much more meaningful when we compare it with what is happening around that property.

    For example, imagine that a home has been on the market for 30 days.

    Is that a long time?

    The answer depends on the market.

    If comparable homes in the same area and price range are selling within seven or ten days, 30 days may deserve a closer look. If similar properties are regularly taking 45 or 60 days to sell, the exact same 30 days could tell a very different story.

    That is why I do not think homeowners should look at days on market as a grade assigned to their home. It is one piece of information that needs to be interpreted alongside other market data.

    Calendar and real estate documents illustrating days on market for a home listing
    Days on market becomes more meaningful when it is viewed alongside local inventory, pricing and comparable properties.

    The Neighborhood Is Only the Beginning

    One of my favorite takeaways from theMLS Summit was the importance of asking “Which market?”

    We often hear people talk about the Los Angeles real estate market as though it were one market. It really is not.

    Even within the same neighborhood, homes in different price ranges can behave differently. Property type matters. Condition matters. Location within the neighborhood can matter. The amount of competing inventory matters too.

    A home should therefore be evaluated within the market that is actually relevant to that particular property.

    This is especially important in Los Angeles, where two homes located relatively close to one another can appeal to different buyers and compete against very different properties.

    Active Listings Matter Too

    When homeowners think about comparable properties, it is natural to focus on homes that have already sold. Those sales are important because they show us what buyers were actually willing to pay.

    But I also like looking closely at active inventory.

    Active listings tell us what a seller is competing against right now.

    If several similar homes are available at the same time, buyers have choices. They can compare price, condition, location, photographs, improvements and overall presentation.

    On the other hand, if there are very few comparable homes available, the competitive environment may look completely different.

    Looking at sold properties without understanding current competition can therefore leave out an important part of the picture.

    Price and Days on Market Often Need to Be Looked at Together

    Days on market can also become more informative when we look at pricing history.

    If a property has been sitting on the market longer than comparable homes, I would want to understand why before reaching any conclusion.

    Was the original asking price significantly higher than comparable properties? Was there a price adjustment? Are buyers choosing another home nearby? Is the property unusual enough that it simply requires a more specific buyer?

    There may be several explanations.

    This is one reason I like the idea of using a Comparative Market Analysis as more than simply a way to arrive at a number. The data can help us understand how buyers are responding to homes in a particular market and what that may mean for a seller’s strategy.

    A Longer Time on the Market Does Not Automatically Mean Something Is Wrong

    I think this point is especially important for homeowners.

    It is easy to see a property that has been listed for a while and assume there must be something wrong with it. Sometimes a longer marketing period can signal that the price or strategy deserves another look, but that is not the only possible explanation.

    Higher priced properties may have a smaller pool of potential buyers. A unique home may take longer to find the right buyer. Market conditions can change. New competing inventory can appear. Buyer activity can also vary at different times of the year.

    Rather than reacting to the number alone, I think the better question is:

    What is the market telling us about this particular home?

    That is a much more useful conversation.

    Real Estate Data Is Most Helpful When We Put It in Context

    The more I learn about MLS data, the more I appreciate how much information is available to help homeowners make thoughtful decisions.

    Days on market is one of those pieces of information, but it should not stand alone.

    I would want to look at comparable sales, current listings, price range, property condition, competition and what buyers appear to be doing in that specific market. Together, those pieces can provide a much clearer picture than any single statistic.

    For homeowners considering selling, that context can help set realistic expectations and guide decisions throughout the listing process.

    And ultimately, that is what I believe good real estate information should do: help people understand their options so they can make decisions with greater confidence.

    With gratitude and a heart of service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker | REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside

  • Public vs. Private Home Listings: What Los Angeles Sellers Should Know Before Choosing

    Public vs. Private Home Listings: What Los Angeles Sellers Should Know Before Choosing

    When most homeowners think about selling a home, they probably picture a familiar process: the property is listed in the MLS, photographs appear online, buyers and their agents can find the home, and showings begin.

    But today, sellers may have more choices about how and when their home is marketed.

    I spent a day at The MLS Summit 2026 here in Los Angeles, and one of the topics I found especially interesting was the conversation around the different listing and marketing options available to sellers. As a real estate broker, I spend a lot of time thinking about what information homeowners should understand before they are asked to make an important decision.

    This is one of those decisions.

    There is not necessarily one marketing approach that is right for every seller. Privacy, timing, personal circumstances and the property itself can all matter. But I do believe homeowners should understand what they may gain, and what they may give up, when choosing how broadly their home will be exposed to the market.

    What Does a Public Listing Mean?

    A traditional public listing is the option most homeowners are familiar with. The property is entered into the Multiple Listing Service and, depending on the seller’s instructions and applicable MLS rules, may also be distributed to consumer facing real estate websites.

    That broad exposure can be important.

    Selling a home is ultimately about connecting a property with potential buyers. The more broadly a home is exposed, the more opportunities buyers and their real estate professionals may have to discover it, evaluate it and potentially make an offer.

    That does not mean that maximum exposure automatically guarantees the highest price. Real estate is much more nuanced than that. Pricing, presentation, property condition, photography, timing and the local market all matter.

    But exposure is an important part of the conversation.

    Why Would a Seller Want More Privacy?

    There are also legitimate reasons why a homeowner might not want immediate public exposure.

    A seller may value privacy. There may be family or personal circumstances involved. Someone may want additional time before a property appears broadly on consumer websites. In other situations, the seller and broker may determine that a different marketing timeline makes sense for that particular property.

    This is where understanding the terminology becomes helpful.

    An Office Exclusive listing, under current National Association of REALTORS® MLS policy, is a listing in which the seller directs that the property not be publicly marketed and not be disseminated through the MLS to other MLS participants and subscribers. The listing is still filed with the MLS, subject to applicable local rules.

    That is a meaningful choice because the seller is choosing not to receive the broad and immediate exposure normally associated with MLS distribution.

    Home sellers may have different marketing options. Understanding how each choice affects timing, privacy and exposure is an important part of deciding how to bring a home to market.

    What About Delayed Marketing?

    There is another option that is important to distinguish from an Office Exclusive.

    Under NAR’s Multiple Listing Options for Sellers policy, a Delayed Marketing Exempt Listing is entered into the MLS and is available to other MLS participants, but public marketing through IDX and syndication is delayed for the period permitted by the local MLS.

    In other words, “not on the public websites yet” does not necessarily mean “not in the MLS.”

    That distinction was one of the reasons I found this subject so valuable at The MLS Summit. Real estate terminology can sound technical, but behind the terminology are decisions that can have very practical consequences for homeowners.

    The Questions I Would Encourage a Seller to Ask

    If a homeowner is considering limiting or delaying the exposure of their property, I think it is important to understand why.

    What is the benefit to the seller?

    Who will be able to see the home during that period?

    Who will not?

    How could this affect the number of buyers who become aware of the property?

    What is the seller gaining in exchange for limiting or delaying broader exposure?

    These are reasonable questions, and they are exactly the kinds of conversations I believe homeowners should feel comfortable having with their real estate professional.

    Current NAR policy reflects the importance of that informed decision. When a seller chooses an exempt listing option such as an Office Exclusive or Delayed Marketing listing, the required disclosure includes acknowledgment that the seller understands the MLS benefits they are waiving or delaying, including broad and immediate exposure through the MLS.

    I think that is an important principle beyond the paperwork itself: the marketing strategy should serve the seller.

    Every Home Deserves Its Own Conversation

    One thing I continue to appreciate about real estate is that two homes in the same neighborhood can require very different strategies.

    That is certainly true here in Pacific Palisades and throughout the Westside of Los Angeles. A seller’s priorities, the condition of the home, the property’s price range, current competition and even the reason for selling can influence how a home should be positioned.

    This is also why I do not think homeowners should feel pressured to choose a particular marketing strategy simply because it is described as exclusive, private or special.

    Sometimes privacy may genuinely be important. Sometimes delaying public marketing may make sense. In other circumstances, broad exposure to the marketplace may better serve the seller’s goals.

    The important thing is understanding the difference and making the choice intentionally.

    My Takeaway From The MLS Summit

    I left The MLS Summit with pages of notes, but one idea keeps coming back to me: homeowners deserve to understand the choices being made on their behalf.

    Technology and real estate marketing will continue to evolve. There will probably be even more ways to market a home in the future. But the responsibility of a real estate professional remains very human: explain the options clearly, answer questions honestly and help the client make an informed decision based on what is best for their situation.

    If you are considering selling a home in Pacific Palisades or elsewhere on the Westside of Los Angeles and you are wondering how your property should be marketed, I am always happy to help you understand the different options. You do not need to know all of the MLS terminology before starting the conversation. That is part of what I am here for.

    With gratitude and a heart of service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker | REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside

  • The Pacific Palisades Farmers Market Is Back: A Community Beginning to Bloom Again

    The Pacific Palisades Farmers Market Is Back: A Community Beginning to Bloom Again

    Yesterday felt like another important day in Pacific Palisades.

    On Wednesday, August 19, the Pacific Palisades Farmers Market returned to Swarthmore Avenue at Palisades Village for the first time since the January 2025 fire. After everything our community has experienced, seeing those white tents lining the street again meant much more to me than having a place to buy fresh produce and flowers.

    It felt like another little piece of our community coming home.

    Every Reopening Matters in Pacific Palisades

    Since the fire, I have come to appreciate things I probably once took for granted.

    A business reopening matters. A school welcoming students back matters. A familiar gathering place returning matters. And now, having our Farmers Market back every Wednesday matters too.

    Yesterday, the Village was full of people. Schools have started again in the Palisades, so there were children and families walking around. I ran into friends. Rick Caruso was there. There was a big line at Alfred Coffee. For a few hours, there was the wonderful feeling of people simply being together in their neighborhood again.

    I bought a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

    Looking at those flowers later, I thought about how appropriate they seemed for this moment in Pacific Palisades.

    We are not back to what life looked like before the fire. There is still construction everywhere. There is dust. There are empty lots and businesses that have not returned. Many families are still rebuilding their homes and their lives.

    But there are also signs of growth.

    Maybe that is what rebuilding actually looks like. Not one dramatic moment when everything suddenly becomes normal again, but hundreds of smaller moments when something begins to bloom.

    What This Means for Pacific Palisades Real Estate

    As a real estate broker and a longtime resident of Pacific Palisades, I also look at these moments through the lens of our local housing market.

    Real estate is about much more than the structure of a house or the price of a property. People choose communities because of the life surrounding their homes.

    They care about schools, restaurants, coffee shops, parks, local businesses and places where they can run into neighbors. They care about whether a community feels alive and connected.

    That is why the return of a Farmers Market matters for Pacific Palisades real estate too.

    One Farmers Market cannot tell us what home values will do, and I would never suggest that it can. But every business that reopens, every school that welcomes children back and every community tradition that returns helps restore the everyday life that makes a neighborhood a place people want to call home.

    I hope we continue to see more businesses return to the Palisades in the months ahead.

    Sometimes Rebuilding Means Getting Away From Rebuilding

    A few days ago, I did something completely different with my three children.

    I had been meaning to take them to The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita, and we finally went.

    We spent time with the animals, brushed a cow and, one by one, each of my children hugged her. I did too.

    Taking a little break from rebuilding life in Pacific Palisades and spending a peaceful day with my three children at The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita.

    There was something wonderfully peaceful about standing next to this enormous, gentle animal.

    For a little while, there were no construction trucks, no construction dust and no conversations about rebuilding. There was just a cow, three children, their mom and a very different kind of afternoon.

    I don’t know exactly how the experience of the fire will stay with my children as they grow older. I don’t know exactly how it will stay with me either.

    But I do know that getting away from our daily surroundings for a few hours felt good.

    And strangely, standing there brushing and hugging a cow made me think about Pacific Palisades.

    Rebuilding Homes and Rebuilding a Community

    In real estate, rebuilding can sound very physical.

    Plans. Permits. Contractors. Foundations. Walls. Roofs. Landscaping.

    Those things are enormously important. We need homes rebuilt.

    But a community is not rebuilt with lumber and concrete alone.

    It is rebuilt when children return to school. When someone opens the doors of a business again. When neighbors stop to talk. When people stand in line for coffee. When farmers put up their tents. When you unexpectedly see a friend while buying vegetables.

    And perhaps it is also rebuilt when a family that has lived through something difficult gives itself permission to leave the construction zone for an afternoon, drive to a barn and hug a cow.

    Yesterday, I came home from the Farmers Market with a bouquet of flowers.

    For me, those flowers are a small reminder of where Pacific Palisades is today.

    We are still rebuilding.

    We are still figuring out what “normal” means now.

    But little by little, our community is beginning to bloom again.

    And I am very grateful to be here to see it.

    With gratitude and a heart of service,

    Claudia Backus, MBA
    California Real Estate Broker | REALTOR®
    Serving Pacific Palisades & the Westside