Image

Your Guide to

Home Ownership

Karen Spechler and Erin Beck Presents to Lyndsey Jones

Knowledge, Experience, Professionalism

Dear

Lyndsey Jones

Buying a home is a rewarding adventure and we're so happy to have the opportunity to bring your real estate dreams to life! In doing so, we aim to instill knowledge and confidence in all our buyers while helping them successfully navigate through every step of the process.

In the following presentation, you’ll be provided an outline of everything you need to know from consultation to handing over the keys. Our mission is to deliver world-class customer service and a winning experience.
Sincerely,

Karen Spechler and Erin Beck

- you're in great hands -

Meet

Karen Spechler and Erin Beck

Broker • Realtor
(805) 708-0446
Spechler and Beck Real Estate Group is a respected team in the Santa Barbara area community. With decades of experience, both Karen and Erin have attracted buyers, sellers, contractors, and investors from all over the country. Santa Barbara is a competitive real estate community with hundreds of Realtors to choose from and Karen and Erin’s clients have chosen to work with them again and again, not only for their knowledge of the local real estate market, but also for their skillful way of guiding clients through each real estate transaction.

Karen was born and raised in Santa Barbara and raised her now-grown boys here. She earned her degree in Real Estate and immediately started her career helping buyers and sellers achieve their real estate dreams. Karen is known all around town for her passion for hiking, her photography, her painting, and her skill in playing the cello in 2 local orchestras.

Erin is married to Brian and they have two children, Lyla and Jack. She is a second generation Realtor and grew up learning about the exciting industry. After graduating UCSB in 2003, Erin decided to follow in her father’s footsteps as a licensed agent. After her first transaction, in which she helped an elderly man sell his lifelong home to a young family, she was hooked and has been working as a full time Realtor ever since.
Image

Proven Track Record

Service

Provide great customer service by building bonds with clients that lead tolong-term relationships where we truly care about their needs.

Knowledge

By pursuing excellence in our expertise as agents we can better service our clients and lead them to home ownership in a smooth and easy process.

Integrity

Be ethical in all you do and communicate with honesty while paying attention to the details of each and every client, agent, and transaction.
Market data as of:
The Market Action Index (MAI) is a literal temperature gauge that shows whether the market favors buyers or sellers.
An MAI of 30 is typically balanced; over 30 is a seller's market, under 30 is a buyer's market.

Buyer markets

Buyers get better deals and more choices when MAI is low.

Seller markets

Sellers can list for higher prices and quicker sales when MAI is high
Market data as of:

View current market trends

Scan the QR code to see the current Market Trends report

Unique Value I Provide My Clients

★
Professional Network to help your purchase go smoothly

Professional Network

★
Market insights as a result of my recent sales in your area

My sales activity in your desired search area will directly benefit you due to my market knowledge, negotiating prowess, and insights into local activity!
★
Exceptional reviews that reflect a pattern of excellence with my past clients.

Raving Reviews

We worked through Lyndsey Jones and would certainly choose her again to be our realtor. We felt very supported during the whole searching, selling, and buying process.
[Read More]
I had an excellent experience with the whole team. In the end I worked primarily with Lyndsey, although the whole team was available to me at all times. The pricing and sales strategy we developed worked perfectly. I was able to have any questions i had answered promptly and completely, and I learned a lot in the process. I highly recommend this team, with specific shoutout to Lyndsey who was designated as my primary partner.
[Read More]
Very friendly and patient in answering our questions. Although we decided to wait for three weeks until my tenant moved out for a better showing, once that happened, my unit sold with a week!
[Read More]
In our 52 years in Santa Barbara, Karen Spechler and her team are truly among the best we’ve ever worked with. From start to finish, they made us feel like we were their top priority—always going above and beyond, and yes, even moving mountains when needed! My wife, Valerie, and I recommend Karen and her team wholeheartedly and without hesitation to any of our friends and family.
[Read More]
Karen and Erin did a fantastic job throughout the whole process of selling our condo. Their knowledge and expertise was apparent from the first informal discussion, right up to the final closing of the sale. They were both a pleasure to work with and I cannot speak highly enough of them and their supporting staff.
[Read More]
This is probably the easiest review I’ve ever had to write because of my incredible home buying experience with my realtor Lyndsey and her team at the Santa Babara office! She was extremely organized, diligent, professional, knowledgeable and just so much fun to be around everytime we had to meet up! Could not recommend a better real estate agency than this one. We found my dream home and they were right there with us every step of the way as first time homebuyers. We love Lyndsey!!
[Read More]
5 STARS across the board with these two!! The Karen and Erin team has done it again for us and we couldn’t be happier with their teamwork and professionalism. For both buying and selling we have appreciated Karen and Erin’s vast experience, expertise, and knowledge of the local market (really on a day-by-day basis!). The team component makes their actions and responses seamless and lightning fast! We really can’t recommend them highly enough and won’t hesitate to use them again!
[Read More]
We’ve worked with Karen Spechler on four previous sales and have always trusted her judgment and approach. For our most recent sale, we had the chance to work with both Karen Spechler and Erin Beck, and they made a great team. Everything was handled smoothly, with clear communication and no drama. We wouldn’t think of working with anyone else.
[Read More]
My experience with Erin Beck as our realtor was nothing short of exceptional. As first-time homebuyers, my spouse and I were entering the daunting world of real estate with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Erin quickly alleviated any concerns we had with her expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for our needs.From the outset, Erin took the time to understand our preferences, budget, and priorities. She guided us through the labyrinth of listings, helping us navigate the complexities of the market to find homes that matched our criteria. Her knowledge of the local area was invaluable, providing insights that we wouldn't have discovered on our own.What truly set Erin apart was her commitment to educating us throughout the process. She patiently explained every step, ensuring we were well-informed and confident in our decisions. When it came time to make an offer, Erin's guidance was invaluable. She shared strategies for crafting a compelling offer, ultimately securing us a home that exceeded our expectations.Communication was another area where Erin excelled. Despite her busy schedule, she was always accessible and responsive, promptly addressing any questions or concerns we had. Her dedication to keeping us informed every step of the way was immensely reassuring, turning what could have been a stressful experience into a smooth and enjoyable journey.In short, Erin Beck is more than just a realtor; she's a trusted advisor and advocate for her clients. Thanks to her expertise, guidance, and unwavering support, my spouse and I are now proud homeowners. I wholeheartedly recommend Erin to anyone in search of a top-notch real estate professional. Thank you, Erin, for making our dreams a reality!
[Read More]
These lovely ladies were so patient, professional, and honest. My guess- they’re one of the best in all of Santa Barbara when it comes to real estate. And boy, do they know their stuff! Especially for those of us new to CA ownership, they will walk you through the many steps it takes to close on an offer, from the type of inspections one would need( and they have a long list of people they can refer you to, if necessary), to working with a title company, to how to address unexpected costs/ repairs that might be needed.Highly recommend!
[Read More]

Loyalty

This custom presentation that I’ve shared with you is an example of the care and effort I put into each of my best clients. I recognize that real estate transactions are one of the largest financial transactions of your life and it deserves careful consideration and wise planning. In light of this, you should feel strongly that mutual respect and understanding are key components of hiring me to help you accomplish real results starting right away.

Reviewing each other’s roles and responsibilities as we embark on the next steps together is how we can decide if we are ready to move forward together.

Processes

1

Consultation

We’ll sit down together and help you determine your needs wants and goals while offering my personal industry expertise and strategies for bringing your vision to life.
Image

2

Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved will help you know exactly what you can afford so you can confidently focus on the right homes. Plus, it shows sellers you’re serious, giving you an edge when making an offer.
Image

3

Property tours

After you have reviewed and selected which homes you want to tour, we get to go shopping! This is where you can start figuring out what you really want in your new home.
Image

4

Write offer

Once we find the home of your dreams, we'll submit an official offer - including but not limited to sale price, inspection contingencies, and closing costs. The seller then has time to accept, reject, or counter your offer.
Image

5

Under Contract or Escrow

With your offer accepted, we enter a 30-day Escrow period. This involves a neutral third party company that holds funds while conducting a thorough underwriting process to ensure all aspects of the contract are upheld properly
Image

6

Appraisal

The appraisal is ordered by your lender to protect their investment. They have their own checklist of things they look at for the final approval to move forward. The appraiser can demand repairs completed by the seller before they will give their approval.
Image

7

Inspections

Now that you've found your home we need to order the inspection. The inspection will let you know what repairs are needed, some are minor and some may be safety issues. Don't worry, you are still protected.
Image

8

Closing

Congratulations! You now own a home and can get moved in. It's time to celebrate and have your housewarming and show off your home. We will be standing by to answer any questions you may have about home-ownership and have a list of contractors if the need arises.
Image
Image

105 More Ways

Agents Who Are Realtors ® Are Worth Every Penny Of Their Compensation.

Here’s a look at all the things – big and small – that a REALTOR ® may do to help clients when buying a home.

Counseling Session Activities

  • Prepare the buyer for executing a buyer representation agreement
  • Explain agency relationships to the buyer and get state required legal consent to represent, if needed
  • Inform the buyer of working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS® Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies

Building a Relationship

  • Learn the buyer’s wants and non-negotiable needs
  • Understand the buyer’s budget and what will be needed financially
  • Help the buyer understand what property their chosen budget will buy
  • Consider having the buyer fill out a homebuyer’s checklist
  • Assist the buyer in examining how much they can afford to spend
  • Provide quality lender resources
  • Partner with the buyer to locate suitable properties for consideration
  • Match the buyer’s needs with available property
  • Constantly re-evaluate buyer’s needs and refocus property showings to fit those needs
  • After ensuring the buyer understands what is done for them, how it is done,and the benefit to them, obtain signatures on the buyer representation agreement
  • Explain how compensation is paid, who pays it, and what the buyer’s options are for paying it

Educating the Buyer

  • Communicate the working relationship based on state law, the REALTORS® Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies
  • Explain Federal and State Fair Housing laws
  • Explain what to look for in applicable property disclosures
  • Reassure the buyer that their personal information will remain confidential
  • Inform the buyer that you will always disclose all known material defects
  • In accordance with state law, provide information on checking the sex-offender registry and crime statistics for the neighborhood
  • Discuss available resources that the buyer can check to learn more about prospective neighborhoods
Image
REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®

Preparing the Buyer

  • Explain the timeline for house hunting, mortgage approval, and closing
  • Explain the local market and how it impacts the buyer
  • Show statistics on what percentage of list price sellers in the area are currentlyreceiving
  • Inform the buyer on what home features are popular
  • Identify current average days on market
  • Share the dangers of using the price per square foot to figure home values
  • Explain the concept of absorption rate and how it impacts the buying process
  • Indicate current listing months of market inventory
  • Share estimated potential out-of-pocket costs to complete the transaction
  • Assist the buyer in analyzing the loan estimates
  • Qualify the buyer for financial ability to purchase
  • Help the buyer account for the complete costs of homeownership
  • Prepare lender for listing agent calls
  • Assist in comparing different financing options
  • Help the buyer select for viewing only those homes that fit their needs
  • Proceed in showing homes that fit the buyer’s must-haves
  • Caution the buyer on posting information to social media
  • Review the sample sales contract so the buyer is prepared when it comes time to make an offer

Showing Properties

  • Schedule showings and provide access to all listed properties as soon as they become available in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Educate the buyer on the immediacy of new listings appearing in their local MLS broker marketplaces and the lag time for them to appear on some websites
  • Collaborate with the buyer on properties they may have learned about through their sphere contacts
  • Research and assist on all unlisted properties the buyer wishes to see
  • Preview properties prior to showing if needed
  • Network with other agents to source properties not yet in their local MLS broker marketplaces
  • Contact homeowners in focus areas to see if they are considering selling
  • Set up an automated email alert system through their local MLS broker marketplaces that immediately notifies the buyer of properties that fit discussed requirements
  • Arrange a tour of areas, schools, and key points of interest
  • Provide resources containing neighborhood information on municipal services,schools, etc.
  • Inform the buyer of negative aspects like nearby venues or operations that may result in issues that could impact value
  • Collect and share any other vital information on available homes, remembering to follow all fair housing laws at all times
  • Check applicable zoning and building restrictions
  • Help the buyer decipher public property and tax information
  • Collect and share pertinent data on values, taxes, utility costs, etc.
  • Compare each property shown to the buyer’s wants and needs list and remind them of what they were looking for
  • Help the buyer narrow the search until the buyer identifies top choices

Negotiating Offers

  • Assist the buyer in getting the best property at the best price
  • Suggest that the buyer learn more about the neighborhood prior to makingan offer
  • Prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) in advance of making an offer
  • Prepare the buyer to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace
  • Explain common contract contingencies and include approved protective clauses in the purchase offer
  • Ensure that the buyer receives and understands all state and federally-required disclosure forms
  • Prioritize contract negotiation goals with the buyer
  • Help create a negotiating strategy
  • Use strategies such as an escalation clause to maintain a competitive offer
  • Prepare the buyer for a multiple offer situation and develop negotiation strategies
  • Write an offer that has a reasonable chance of being accepted
  • Recommend optional contingencies and explain the pros and cons of using them
  • Provide information on purchasing incentives that may be available
  • Discuss financing alternatives
  • Negotiate the buyer’s offers to arrive at the best price and terms
  • Utilize hyperlocal expertise and strong communication skills to assist the buyer in being the successful offer

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 1/2)

  • Advocate for the buyer throughout the entire process
  • Encourage the buyer to fully investigate their options in terms of a home inspector, title company, appraiser, mortgage lender, and other services
  • Present a list of the types of required and optional inspections such as environmental, roofing, and mold
  • Review and discuss home inspection concerns
  • Negotiate repair requests from home inspection
  • Guide the buyer on meeting all contract deadlines
  • Assist in coordinating communications
  • Advise the buyer to review the settlement statement
  • Inform clients that they need to transfer utilities to the new residence
  • Schedule final walkthrough
  • Accompany the buyer on the walkthrough
  • Assist the buyer in questioning the appraisal report if it affects the financing
  • Confirm clear-to-close with the lender
  • Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale
  • Remind the buyer of the location where the closing will be held
  • Confirm the closing date and time, and notify parties if there are changes
  • Gather all required forms and documents for closing
  • Explain flood insurance to the buyer
  • Explain title insurance to the buyer and refer to qualified insurance broker
  • Order any surveys needed

Advocating for the Buyer and Facilitating the Close (Part 2/2)

  • Order the appraisal
  • Order the title search
  • Confirm the status of the loan funding
  • Check addendums and alterations for agreed terms
  • Review the buyer’s closing statement to ensure accuracy
  • Explain wire fraud risks and remind clients to verify all wiring instructions before transferring funds
  • Double-check all tax, homeowners’ association dues, utility, and applicable prorations, if relevant
  • Request final closing figures from the closing agent (often an attorney ortitle company)
  • Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy
  • Receive and carefully review title insurance commitment with the buyer
  • Advise the buyer to re-key their locks and to consider a one-time cleaning service or landscaping before moving day
  • Review documents with the closing agent (attorney)
  • Support the buyer in any final closing activities
Image
Actual services provided will depend on the needs of the buyer and the transaction –not all 105 things will need to be done in every transaction.

Featured content from the Center for REALTOR® Development’s Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Designation Course. Visit crd.realtor to learn more.
Image

Starting August 17th, 2024

It is required to complete and sign a written agreement before showing a home. This applies to buyers requiring the services of any licensed agent in the U.S. to visit a property.
Image

By Signing the Agreement to Partner with an Agent

Our agent is dedicated to you and committed to finding a home that meets your needs.
Image

With a proven track record

We have the knowledge and experience to be the BEST asset in your real estate endeavors.

Signing a Buyers Broker Agreement or BBA

  • This is an agreement to engage with a professional real estate agent to consult, show homes, negotiate contracts, and advocate.
  • It will establish the length of the agreement
  • It shows the agent/broker's services and responsibilities
  • It explains the agreement's exclusivity between Broker and client, what fees are owed for services rendered, and how to terminate the agreement. It mentions additional fees if the buyer signs with more than one agent.
  • It provides a clear explanation of the various ways an agent can be compensated for their services to the Buyer.

Let's Chat.

I'm sure you have questions and thoughts about the real estate process. I'd love to talk with you about what you've read here and help you along this path.
www.spechlerandbeck.com/team/karen-spechler-erin-beck
Image
Image

Thank you!

In everything we do, we are driven to help others, because behind every transaction there is a vision, a goal, a dream waiting to come to life. In doing so, we bring our expertise, our instincts from years of experience, and our complete dedication to you.

This is only the beginning of an exciting journey to a bright and shining new future. And it's only the beginning of our commitment to servicing your every real estate need. Thank you for the opportunity to help you!
We'll be right there with you, every step of the way.