Harvinder Balu – Your Bay Area Real Estate Guide

Understanding Property Taxes (Bay Area Edition)

Property taxes may not be exciting, but they’re essential for every homeowner and real estate investor to understand—especially in the Bay Area. In this episode of Bay Area Realty Experts, we break down what property taxes are, how they’re calculated, ways to lower your bill, and common mistakes to avoid. We’ll also cover local insights like Prop 13, Mello-Roos taxes, and special exemptions you might qualify for. Whether you're buying your first home or just want to stay informed, this episode will help you navigate property taxes with confidence.
Blog (Notes) : https://Harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/03/22/2025/property-taxes/
Harvinder Balu
REALTOR®, GRI, CIPS, PSA, FTBS
CA DRE 02195792 
REALTY EXPERTS®
http://RealtorHarvinder.com/
 
Source: https://www.nar.realtor/the-facts/consumer-guide-property-taxes
Disclaimer: I am not a CPA or tax attorney. This information is general and not professional tax advice. Property tax laws vary by locality and can change over time. Always consult a licensed tax professional for advice on your specific situation. Neither Harvinder Balu nor Realty Experts assumes liability for actions taken based on this guide.

Navigating the Real Estate Fallout from the Los Angeles Wild Fires!

The Eaton and Palisades wildfires have devastated Los Angeles, impacting over $40 billion in residential real estate. In this episode, we break down how the fires are affecting home values, insurance costs, and the rental market, along with what buyers, sellers, and investors should expect in the coming weeks. Stay informed and prepared—tune in now!
Source:
https://fortune.com/2025/01/26/la-housing-crisis-home-rents-wildfires-price-gouging-laws/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
 
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/as-wildfire-damage-climbs-to-40-billion-homeowners-face-higher-insurance-costs-67acff79?utm_source=chatgpt.com
 
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/26/los-angeles-wildfires-rebuild?utm_source=chatgpt.com
 
https://www.realtor.com/research/palisades-eaton-fire-impact-los-angeles-county/?utm_source=Realtor.com+Economic+Research+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=c9359e9d03-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_04_26_01_53_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_5fdb87a164-c9359e9d03-469106593
 
Harvinder Balu
REALTOR®, GRI, CIPS, PSA, FTBS
DRE CA #02195792 
REALTY EXPERTS®
https://RealtorHarvinder.com
Disclaimer: All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
 

California's Soaring Real Estate Market: Challenges, Equity, and Generational Shifts

Join us as we dive into California's soaring real estate market, tackling the inventory dilemma, the "locked-in" seller phenomenon, and the rise of multi-generational living. Discover how affordability challenges are reshaping the market and explore solutions to create opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.
blog: https://Harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/01/01/2025/california-real-estate-2025
Affordable Inventory: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Affordable-Inventory.pdf
Traditional HAI Presentation: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Traditional-HAI-Presentation.pdf
Annual Historical Data Summary: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Annual-Historical-Data-Summary.pdf
Fremont Residential Market Trends - Realtors Property Resource: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Fremont-Residential-Market-Trends-Realtors-Property-Resource.pdf
San Jose Residential Market Trends - Realtors Property Resource: https://Harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/San-Jose-Residential-Market-Trends-Realtors-Property-Resource.pdf
Milpitas Residential Market Trends - Realtors Property Resource: https://Harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Milpitas-Residential-Market-Trends-Realtors-Property-Resource.pdf
Santa Clara County Residential Market Trends - Realtors Property Resource: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Santa-Clara-County-Residential-Market-Trends-Realtors-Property-Resource.pdf
Alameda County Residential Market Trends - Realtors Property Resource: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Alameda-County-Residential-Market-Trends-Realtors-Property-Resource.pdf
 
Harvinder Balu
REALTOR®, GRI, CIPS, PSA, FTBS
DRE CA #02195792 
REALTY EXPERTS®
41051 Mission Blvd
Fremont CA 94539 
http://realtorharvinder.com/
 
Disclaimer: All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
Source: California Association of Realtors (CAR)
 

December 2024 Fed Rate Cuts: Key Insights for Bay Area Homebuyers and Sellers

Discover how December 2024 Fed rate cuts impact mortgage rates, housing trends, and the Bay Area real estate market. Stay informed with expert insights tailored for buyers and sellers.
NAR link: https://HarvinderBalu.com/NAR12Rates

A Brighter 2025: What Home Buyers Can Expect in the Housing Market

Discover what 2025 holds for the housing market! In this episode, we explore insights from NAR's latest forecast, including stabilizing mortgage rates, growing inventory, and brighter opportunities for buyers and sellers. Tune in for expert predictions and what it means for the Bay Area real estate market.

2025 New Laws Part 2: Tenant Rights, Photo Requirements, & Small Business Protections

In this episode, we explore key updates from California's 2025 real estate laws, including tenant screening fee restrictions, mandatory move-in/move-out photos, and new protections for small business tenants. Don't forget to check out Part 1 for insights on mandatory buyer representation agreements!
Part 1 Podcast - https://Harvinder.podbean.com/e/part-1-california-s-new-rule-mandatory-buyer-representation-agreements-explained/
Part 1 Watch YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq4Qm2paUVk&t=13s
C.A.R link: https://www.car.org/riskmanagement/qa/New-Laws/2025-New-Laws
 
Harvinder Balu
REALTOR®, GRI, CIPS, PSA, FTBS
DRE CA #02195792 
REALTY EXPERTS®
41051 Mission Blvd
Fremont CA 94539 
https://RealtorHarvinder.com/
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and helpful information, the content should not be considered professional advice. For any specific legal, financial, or real estate matters, we recommend consulting with a licensed professional in the relevant field.

Part 1 - California’s New Rule: Mandatory Buyer Representation Agreements Explained

In this episode of Bay Area Realty Experts, we explore California’s groundbreaking new law requiring mandatory buyer representation agreements, effective January 1, 2025. What does this mean for buyers and agents? From outlining services and compensation to setting clear expectations, we break down the key provisions and what they mean for you. Whether you're a homebuyer or a real estate professional, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the changes ahead. Tune in to stay informed, empowered, and ready for the future of real estate in California!
Watch YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq4Qm2paUVk&t=13s
C.A.R link: https://www.car.org/riskmanagement/qa/New-Laws/2025-New-Laws
 
Harvinder Balu
REALTOR®, GRI, CIPS, PSA, FTBS
DRE CA #02195792 
REALTY EXPERTS®
41051 Mission Blvd
Fremont CA 94539 
https://RealtorHarvinder.com/
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and helpful information, the content should not be considered professional advice. For any specific legal, financial, or real estate matters, we recommend consulting with a licensed professional in the relevant field.

Fremont Real Estate Market Update 2024

Explore the Fremont real estate market trends for November 2024 in this episode of Bay Area Realty Experts! We'll dive into key insights, including home prices, inventory levels, and why Fremont remains a hot spot for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you're looking to buy your dream home or sell for top dollar, this episode has everything you need to stay informed and ahead in the market. Tune in for expert advice and actionable updates!
You can also check out the blog for more detailed information : https://harvinderbalu.com/FremontN24
Alameda County : Latest Inventory & Market Update: https://HarvinderBalu.com/alameda
Link to Listings in Fremont: http://RealtorHarvinder.com
Disclaimer: All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.
Source: (RPR) Realtors Property Resource®

Home Buying 101 - The Importance of Pre-Approval

Are you planning to buy a home? Pre-approval is a critical first step in the home-buying journey.
In this episode, we will learn why pre-approval matters and how it can give you an edge in the competitive real estate market.
What you'll learn in this episode: What is a pre-approval? Key benefits of getting pre-approved, including budgeting, impressing sellers, and speeding up the process.
How pre-approval can protect you from rising interest rates. Steps to get pre-approved and why it builds confidence in the home-buying process.
📢 Connect with Us: Have questions about pre-approval or buying a home? We're here to help! Contact us today for personalized real estate guidance and services.
Blog - More Details: https://harvinder.dscloud.me/blog/11/17/2024/pre-approval-home-buying/
Watch YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ7c6b24Q5Q
Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a licensed real estate agent, mortgage advisor, or financial expert to address your specific needs and circumstances. We are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information shared in this episode.