Embarking on the journey to buy a home is an exciting milestone, but before you start browsing listings or visiting open houses, there's a crucial step you need to take: obtaining pre-approval from a lender. At Realty Executives, we’ve seen firsthand how securing pre-approval can make a significant difference in the homebuying process.

Why Pre-Approval Should Come First

Getting pre-approved isn’t just about understanding what you can afford; it’s about demonstrating to sellers that you’re a serious and qualified buyer. In today's competitive market, homes often receive multiple offers, and those with pre-approval letters tend to stand out. It shows that you have the financial backing to follow through, giving your offer a distinct advantage.

Building the Right Relationship with Your Lender

Choosing the right lender is a vital part of your homeownership journey. A trustworthy lender is more than someone who provides a loan—they are a guide and partner in navigating the complexities of mortgage options, interest rates, and closing timelines. Building a relationship with a lender you trust can smooth out potential bumps along the way, especially when time is of the essence.

We recommend shopping around to compare rates, fees, and service. Many buyers worry that multiple credit checks could impact their credit score, but rest assured, credit bureaus typically treat multiple inquiries within a short span as a single hard pull. This allows you to explore your options without negative consequences.

The Pre-Approval Process

The good news is that obtaining pre-approval is generally quick. Once you provide the necessary financial documentation, most lenders can deliver a pre-approval letter within a day or two. This document is an essential tool when negotiating offers—proof that you are ready and able to proceed with the purchase.

From the time you go under contract, expect the mortgage process to take approximately 30 to 45 days. During this period, your Realtor, lender, and other professionals work together seamlessly to ensure your transaction moves toward a successful closing.

Your Path to Homeownership Starts Here

Buying a home is a significant step, and preparation is key. By securing pre-approval early, you position yourself as a prepared and compelling buyer—someone who is ready to move quickly and confidently when the right home becomes available.

At Realty Executives, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you’re ready to begin your homebuying journey or have questions about the pre-approval process, give Scott and Caroline Doan a call at (951) 541-3498. Let’s work together to turn your homeownership dreams into reality.

Discover Ocean Hills at Pacifica San Juan: A Coastal Sanctuary in San Juan Capistrano

Nestled in the picturesque city of San Juan Capistrano, Ocean Hills at Pacifica San Juan is a stunning gated community offering a luxurious coastal lifestyle. Developed by Toll Brothers, renowned for their craftsmanship and quality, this community features beautifully designed single-family homes that cater to a variety of tastes and needs.

A Brief Timeline of Development

Construction of Ocean Hills began in the early 2010s, with the community largely completing by 2020. The initial model homes drew widespread attention for their elegant designs and prime location, and subsequent phases continue to enhance the community’s appeal with new homes and features.

Community Sections and Their Unique Charms

Ocean Hills is thoughtfully divided into several distinct sections, each offering its own unique lifestyle and architectural appeal:

Ocean Hills – The Classic Retreat:The community's original phase, featuring spacious homes with traditional coastal design, open floor plans, and private outdoor spaces. It's perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed, friendly neighborhood.

The Preserve: An enclave emphasizing privacy and luxury, with larger lots and premium finishes. Surrounded by natural preservation areas, residents enjoy a peaceful connection to nature.

The Vista Collection: Known for panoramic city and ocean views, these homes boast multi-story layouts, expansive decks, and high-end finishes—ideal for entertaining and enjoying breathtaking scenery.

The Ocean Hill Terrace: Designed for a low-maintenance lifestyle, this section offers modern, detached homes suited for busy professionals, seniors, or anyone seeking comfort without extensive yard work.

The Hillside Estates:  Offering luxury and exclusivity, these homes feature expansive footprints, custom options, and scenic hillside vistas, representing the pinnacle of elegance within Ocean Hills.

Features and Amenities

Residents of Ocean Hills enjoy a wealth of amenities designed to promote leisure, fitness, and social interaction:

Club Pacifica: The community’s premier clubhouse is a luxurious retreat with an elegant interior for gatherings, meetings, and events. Outdoors, residents can unwind in the resort-style pool and spa, or stay active in the state-of-the-art fitness center. The clubhouse also includes scenic outdoor areas, walking trails, and recreational facilities like BBQ areas, creating a vibrant social hub.

Other Amenities:  Scenic walking trails, landscaped gardens, and outdoor seating areas foster a sense of community and outdoor living.

Living in San Juan Capistrano

Situated moments from Dana Point Harbor, pristine beaches, and the lively entertainment districts of San Juan Capistrano, Ocean Hills provides not just a beautiful home but access to an exceptional coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in boating, beach activities, dining, or exploring historical sites, everything you desire is within easy reach.

Community Fees and Living Comfort

The homeowners association fee is $395 per month, covering maintenance of common areas, amenities, and security, ensuring a worry-free lifestyle for residents. 

Take the Next Step

If you’re looking for a community that combines luxury, comfort, and a vibrant coastal lifestyle, Ocean Hills at Pacifica San Juan could be your perfect destination. With beautifully crafted homes, exclusive amenities, and a prime location, it offers an unparalleled living experience in Southern California.

Start your search here

Nestled in the heart of Murrieta, California, Spencer’s Crossing stands out as a vibrant, family-friendly community that perfectly balances resort-style amenities with the charm of rural living. Developed since 2007, this community offers spacious, modern homes and an active lifestyle for residents of all ages.

A Community Designed for Fun and Relaxation

Spencer’s Crossing is more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. From stunning homes to an array of recreational opportunities, it’s an ideal location for families seeking a fun, active environment. The community boasts a variety of amenities, including five private parks, multiple swimming pools, shaded quiet areas, and expansive open fields perfect for play and relaxation.

Whether you're training for that 5K, playing catch with your kids, or enjoying a friendly game of basketball or soccer, Spencer’s Crossing has plenty of well-maintained fields, courts, and trails to keep you moving. The community truly encourages an active, outdoor-centered lifestyle where residents can soak up the sun and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

Prime Location—In the Middle of It All

Location is everything, and Spencer’s Crossing offers proximity to some of the best attractions in Southern California. Just minutes away, residents can explore Temecula's renowned vineyards, indulge in retail therapy at nearby shopping centers, or enjoy entertainment destinations that cater to all ages. Whether you’re heading out for a day of wine tasting, catching a concert, or exploring local eateries, everything is within easy reach.

Living here means being close to outdoor adventure and urban amenities at the same time—perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.

Perfect Homes for Every Lifestyle

Homes in Spencer’s Crossing are designed with flexibility and creativity in mind. They feature open floor plans, modern kitchens (ideal for entertaining), and spacious layouts that cater to families and individuals alike. Most homes are large and competitively priced, making them an attractive choice for buyers looking to invest in quality living space in Riverside County.

A Community-Focused Neighborhood

Since its inception in 2007, Spencer’s Crossing has developed into a thriving community that continues to evolve. The neighborhood emphasizes a welcoming atmosphere with regular community events, outdoor gatherings, and recreational programs that foster a sense of belonging and connection among residents.

Embrace the Spencer’s Crossing Lifestyle

Life here is about making the most of your time—whether that’s enjoying a game on the field, relaxing by the pool, or exploring the scenic outdoors. With so many amenities, beautiful homes, and a fantastic location, Spencer’s Crossing is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a place to create lasting memories and enjoy an active, engaging lifestyle.

Contact us see why Spencer’s Crossing is considered one of Murrieta’s most desirable communities—where fun, family, and outdoor living come together seamlessly.

Search Spencer's Crossing Real Estate here

Let’s start the conversatioN.  If you're interested in buying or selling real estate in or around Temecula California connect with us easily through our digital business card! Stay updated and get in touch anytime — CLICK HERE to access our contact information and professional profile.  

A Community Facilities District, commonly known as a CFD or Mello-Roos, is a special district created under the California Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982. These districts are established by local governments such as counties, cities, or special districts to finance critical public infrastructure and community services that support both new developments and existing neighborhoods.

Why Are CFDs Created? Mello-Roos or CFDs are needed because the standard property tax base, which is typically capped at 1% was established by Proposition 13 in 1978 to limit property tax increases. While it provides a stable revenue source, it doesn't account for the high costs of infrastructure projects like roads, sewer systems, schools, parks, and public safety facilities required for community growth. A property's assessed value, often isn't sufficient to cover the full cost of necessary public infrastructure and community facilities—especially in new developments. Building new communities or upgrading existing ones often involves significant upfront costs that exceed what standard property taxes can support. For example, constructing a new street network, water lines, or schools requires substantial investment that cannot be fully covered by existing tax revenues.

What about New Construction? In California, a CFD bond is used in new construction projects to finance the development of public infrastructure and community facilities necessary for a community to grow and be functional. Here's how the process typically works:

• Formation of the CFD: Local government agencies, such as counties or cities, establish a Community Facilities District (CFD) through a formal approval process, which requires a two-thirds majority vote of landowners or residents within the proposed district.
• Issuance of Bonds: Once the CFD is approved, the district often issues bonds—called CFD bonds—to raise the large amounts of capital needed upfront for construction costs. These bonds are essentially loans that the district takes on to fund the infrastructure investments immediately.
• Use of Bond Proceeds: The funds obtained from selling these bonds are used directly to finance the construction of essential public improvements, such as roads, sewer and water systems, parks, schools, and other facilities necessary for new residential or commercial developments.
• Repayment of Bond: The CFD commits to repaying these bonds over time through the collection of special taxes levied on properties within the district. These taxes are secured by a lien on the properties and are usually included as an annual line item on the property tax bill.
• Construction and Infrastructure Development: With the bond funds, developers can proceed with building homes or commercial spaces once the required infrastructure is in place, facilitating community growth.
• Post-Construction: After the bonds are paid off (often 20-30 years), the district may continue to levy reduced ongoing special taxes for maintenance and upkeep of the infrastructure. Understanding Your CFD Taxes CFD taxes are secured by a lien on your property, similar to a mortgage. This means that until the bonds issued by the district are fully paid, property owners are responsible for paying these taxes, which can significantly impact the overall cost of homeownership. In California, CFD taxes are usually included as a line item on your annual property tax bill. In some cases, the district may send separate bills.

Buyers should be aware of this tax obligation before purchasing, Disclosure Requirements When selling a property located within a CFD, sellers are legally required to disclose the existence of the CFD Special Tax to prospective buyers. Buyers are encouraged to review their property tax statements carefully to identify any CFD charges.

In Summary While the existing 1% property tax base is valuable for maintaining local government functions, it often doesn't generate enough revenue to fund the large-scale infrastructure needed for new developments or significant upgrades. CFDs and Mello-Roos taxes fill this critical funding gap, ensuring communities have the necessary facilities and services to thrive. Understanding CFDs taxes can help you make more informed decisions about property investments and ownership.

Always consult your real estate professional or tax advisor for specific guidance related to your property. 

Let’s start the conversatioN.  If you're interested in buying or selling real estate in or around Temecula California connect with us easily through our digital business card! Stay updated and get in touch anytime — CLICK HERE to access our contact information and professional profile.