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About Me
Back in the mid 1990's, I was a General Manager for Ruth's Chris Steak House. They had transferred me to a new location in Southern California, and then back a year later. As a result, I ended up buying a home, then selling it a year later and buying a new one, and in the process, worked with 3 different agents. Each time, I was disappointed in the different agent's knowledge, service, and follow through. I thought that there was something lacking in the approach of these agents in that none of them really went above and beyond to help me achieve my goals. I thought that if I were in the real estate business, I could really stand out as someone that took that service to a new level. In 1998, I decided to get my real estate license and learn everything I coud about the buying and selling of homes to be of the greatest benefit to clients.
Since I began in real estate, I have represented clients in the purchase or sale of over 200 homes. I earned my CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) and GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute) designations, which only about 4% of Realtors have, and cntinually educate myself by attending legal updates, classes of the array of contracts and addendums, marketing forums, and staying ahead by utilizing all the tools that today's technology has to offer. I am also an Accredited Staging Professional, and have the know-how to make your home show it's absoulte best to potential buyers.
I currently reside in Kirkland with my wife, son, and three dogs.
What you can expect from me:
Helpful Opinions & Advice
I won't just open the doors of homes, or tell you what
you want to hear. I want to give you the benefit of my knowledge of
potential problems, marketing or pricing miscues, neighborhood
issues, contractual issues, etc., so you have all the knowledge
necessary to make informed decisions.
Communication
I'm extremely attentive to my clients. I return phone calls and emails promptly, and I'm committed to making sure you have a full understanding of all the details throughout your home sale or purchase. No Surprises!
Thoroughness
When I work with a buyer, I am there for every step of the process, from writing up and explaining in detail the purchase offer and all related contract addendums, through the inspection process, the negotiation of any necessary repairs with the seller, and signing your closing paperwork.
If you're looking to sell your home, you can expect me to help you address any needed repairs or upgrades, staging, and other pre-sale concerns, market your home with the highest quality marketing materials and photographs, making sure that every available marketing resource is utilized, While your home is listed, I'll stay in constant communication, with feedback from other agents and potential buyers on their opinions, update you on market and financing issues, and work non-stop towards completing a successful sale.
Integrity
I have no interest in pushing you to do something you don't want. You will never wonder what my agenda is. My only goal is to insure your satisfaction with the handling of your purchase or sale, and giving you the benefit of my experience to make the best decision for your individual situation - even if that means not making a sale.
Since I began in real estate, I have represented clients in the purchase or sale of over 200 homes. I earned my CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) and GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute) designations, which only about 4% of Realtors have, and cntinually educate myself by attending legal updates, classes of the array of contracts and addendums, marketing forums, and staying ahead by utilizing all the tools that today's technology has to offer. I am also an Accredited Staging Professional, and have the know-how to make your home show it's absoulte best to potential buyers.
I currently reside in Kirkland with my wife, son, and three dogs.
What you can expect from me:
Helpful Opinions & Advice
I won't just open the doors of homes, or tell you what
you want to hear. I want to give you the benefit of my knowledge of
potential problems, marketing or pricing miscues, neighborhood
issues, contractual issues, etc., so you have all the knowledge
necessary to make informed decisions.
Communication
I'm extremely attentive to my clients. I return phone calls and emails promptly, and I'm committed to making sure you have a full understanding of all the details throughout your home sale or purchase. No Surprises!
Thoroughness
When I work with a buyer, I am there for every step of the process, from writing up and explaining in detail the purchase offer and all related contract addendums, through the inspection process, the negotiation of any necessary repairs with the seller, and signing your closing paperwork.
If you're looking to sell your home, you can expect me to help you address any needed repairs or upgrades, staging, and other pre-sale concerns, market your home with the highest quality marketing materials and photographs, making sure that every available marketing resource is utilized, While your home is listed, I'll stay in constant communication, with feedback from other agents and potential buyers on their opinions, update you on market and financing issues, and work non-stop towards completing a successful sale.
Integrity
I have no interest in pushing you to do something you don't want. You will never wonder what my agenda is. My only goal is to insure your satisfaction with the handling of your purchase or sale, and giving you the benefit of my experience to make the best decision for your individual situation - even if that means not making a sale.
Testimonials
"Ken Jacobs was instrumental in finding us a home. Many visitors have wondered how we found this home and were very impressed with its floor plan & location. Ken Jacobs worked diligently over several months to show us homes and research prospects, as well as assist us in keeping our patience. Thanks for all your help!"
Doug & Shannon Jamieson
Doug & Shannon Jamieson
"I couldn't have asked for better service. You did an outstanding job of keeping me informed from start to finish. Your response to my questions were always timely and accurate. You have made this the most easy and painless real estate transaction thus far. It has indeed been my pleasure to do business with you. I sincerely thank you!"
Walt Gentry
Walt Gentry
"Outstanding! It is always a pleasure to work with Ken!
This is my 4th time working with him. He has sold 2 and helped me purchase 2 homes. He's efficient, organized and communicates thoroughly throughout the process. I would highly recommend Ken to friends & business associates anytime with confidence they will be well taken care of. You have everything down to a science. Thank you so much for your fine work!"
Alyson Cohan
Alyson Cohan
"You went above and beyond our expectations - A true pleasure to deal with and we are already recommending you. We felt spoiled by all the personal touches - e.g. address change cards, mailing labels, the cleaning service on both ends - the new home and the old house was a true lifesaver, and our boys love you. Thanks so much"
Roberto & Deborah Pellegrino
Roberto & Deborah Pellegrino
"Ken Jacobs has a great understanding of his job and is a competent professional. Ken has excellent clarity when giving information. Ken is very skilled in communication and interaction with clients. Everything was done so efficiently, I can not think of anything that was not provided. Thanks!"
Lee & Katie Diamond
Lee & Katie Diamond
"Ken Jacobs was professional and customer service was extraordinary. Knowledge of the industry and contacts with related professionals was broad and very useful"
Ted & Grace Doolittle
Ted & Grace Doolittle
"Excellent! Ken was friendly, forthright, available & personable. He was knowledgeable as well and supported us start to finish."
Scott Alexander & Tamara Vorobtsova
Scott Alexander & Tamara Vorobtsova
"We felt very fortunate to have Ken and his team working with us. They all are very professional, courteous, extremely organized and go beyond what is customary. We were especially happy with the contacts provided by Ken who performed the inspections and work done on our home before moving in. We couldn't be happier in our new home"
Brett & Elise Agnew
Brett & Elise Agnew
"I don't think anyone could have been more efficient, helpful, professional and timely then you. You kept me informed almost daily of all aspects of the sale and I trusted you every step of the way. I was indeed fortunate that you were referred to me."
Joyce Reno
Joyce Reno
"Over the years I've worked with seven Realtors while buying or selling ten homes and rental properties. Each Realtor did a good job but the service I received from Ken Jacobs was the best in every respect. I could not be more pleased with every aspect of the service I received from Ken and his team and I recommend them highly"
Clark Sharick
Clark Sharick
My Q&A
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Ken Jacobs's Questions (0)
Ken Jacobs's Answers (3)
Ken Jacobs answered:
Obviously, you think you would be disadvantaged using a Zip Realty agent, or you would simply be doing that rather than asking this question.
First, I'd strongly suggest that you put your emphasis on fidning a quality agent first that will look after your interests It would be prudent for you to talk with 2-3 agents that have a solid reputation and experience in the area you're looking in. From there, I would have a laundry list of questions about the purchase process to ask to establish their knowledge and professionalism, and when you feel comfortable with one agent, then you can have the commission discussion. If you want a discount, some things I'd suggest would be to have your ducks in a row, and offer something to the agent in return. What most solid, experienced agents don't want is to waste time with a wishy-washy, uncommited or unrealistic buyer. Offer to sign an exclusive agreement with the agent. Have your loan pre-approval fully established prior to looking for a home. Have a specific area/type of home you are looking for. Educate yourself on the current market conditions, and don't expect to offer 20% below asking price on each house you like. Other things that could effect your situation as well are the price point you're looking at, as an agent may be more willing to consider a reduction if you're looking at an $800,000 home rather than a $200,000 condo. Also, be aware that the commission offered on each home you see can be different. In Walnut Creek, it's currently usually between 2.5% and 3% of the purchase price to the buyer's brokerage firm. Understand that you'll need to expect a smaller reduction or rebate, or none at all if the commission being offered on a particular house is 2.5%. If you're prepared and credible in those ways, you'll have a much better opportunity to find some quality agents that would consider a commission reduction or rebate. Understand though, that a quality, experienced and trustworthy agent can be worth far more to you in the end than the 20% commission rebate you're looking for, so don't settle for just anyone that will give you a discount. Good luck!
First, I'd strongly suggest that you put your emphasis on fidning a quality agent first that will look after your interests It would be prudent for you to talk with 2-3 agents that have a solid reputation and experience in the area you're looking in. From there, I would have a laundry list of questions about the purchase process to ask to establish their knowledge and professionalism, and when you feel comfortable with one agent, then you can have the commission discussion. If you want a discount, some things I'd suggest would be to have your ducks in a row, and offer something to the agent in return. What most solid, experienced agents don't want is to waste time with a wishy-washy, uncommited or unrealistic buyer. Offer to sign an exclusive agreement with the agent. Have your loan pre-approval fully established prior to looking for a home. Have a specific area/type of home you are looking for. Educate yourself on the current market conditions, and don't expect to offer 20% below asking price on each house you like. Other things that could effect your situation as well are the price point you're looking at, as an agent may be more willing to consider a reduction if you're looking at an $800,000 home rather than a $200,000 condo. Also, be aware that the commission offered on each home you see can be different. In Walnut Creek, it's currently usually between 2.5% and 3% of the purchase price to the buyer's brokerage firm. Understand that you'll need to expect a smaller reduction or rebate, or none at all if the commission being offered on a particular house is 2.5%. If you're prepared and credible in those ways, you'll have a much better opportunity to find some quality agents that would consider a commission reduction or rebate. Understand though, that a quality, experienced and trustworthy agent can be worth far more to you in the end than the 20% commission rebate you're looking for, so don't settle for just anyone that will give you a discount. Good luck!
Ken Jacobs answered:
Tax liens are usually for unpaid property taxes. These are senior liens on a property, meaning that they are generally the first to be paid when a property sells. If you are purchasing either a property that has completed foreclosure already, or in any other "normal" sale, the escrow company will arrange to pay and clear the tax lien at close of escrow.
Ken Jacobs answered:
Hi Elizabeth,
There is an agent in my office as well that specializes in Rossmoor. Her name is Susan Kingsley and she can be reached at 925-465-2000 or skingsley@empirera.com. Good luck!
There is an agent in my office as well that specializes in Rossmoor. Her name is Susan Kingsley and she can be reached at 925-465-2000 or skingsley@empirera.com. Good luck!
My Listings
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Certifications & Awards
CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)
GRI (Graduate, Realtor Insitute)
ASP (Accredited Staging Professional)
Security Pacific Real Estate - Executive Council 2000-2005
National Association of Realtors - Member 1998-present
California Association of Realtors - Member 1998-present
Contra Costa Association of Realtors - Member 1998-present
GRI (Graduate, Realtor Insitute)
ASP (Accredited Staging Professional)
Security Pacific Real Estate - Executive Council 2000-2005
National Association of Realtors - Member 1998-present
California Association of Realtors - Member 1998-present
Contra Costa Association of Realtors - Member 1998-present
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