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Morgan Hill in Temecula, What you should know.

(Published on - 8/7/2025 10:20:55 PM)

Morgan Hill in Temecula, California, is a beautifully planned community that exudes a high-end, sophisticated vibe. Made up of 11 distinct enclave communities, each with its own unique character and architectural style, Morgan Hill offers residents a truly personalized living experience while collectively forming a stunning and cohesive neighborhood. Morgan Hill amenities include a private, three acre community center with swimming pools, spa, tennis courts, fitness center, game room, two ballrooms and outdoor fireplace lounge.

At the heart of the community is Morgan Hill Park, a lush green space perfect for outdoor activities, family gatherings, and community events, fostering a strong sense of neighborhood camaraderie. Families in Morgan Hill are served by Tony Tobin Elementary School, a highly regarded educational institution known for its excellent academic programs and engaging community involvement.

For secondary education, residents have convenient access to Great Oak High School, celebrated for its academic and extracurricular excellence. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy proximity to Redhawk Golf Club, a premier course featuring beautifully maintained fairways and a welcoming atmosphere for players of all skill levels.

Transportation is a breeze with easy access to Interstate 15, making commuting to nearby cities and attractions simple and efficient. Retail therapy and dining options abound with fantastic shopping centers such as Butterfield Ranch, Butterfield Station, Redhawk Town Center, Vail Ranch Center, Temecula Village, and Temecula Creek Plaza, offering everything from boutique shops to casual eateries.

For those craving cultural and entertainment experiences, charming Old Town Temecula with its historic buildings, boutique shops, and local restaurants is just minutes away. The Pechanga Valley Casino also lies nearby, providing top-tier gaming and entertainment options.

Additionally, Morgan Hill is ideally situated just minutes from Temecula’s renowned wine country, offering scenic vineyard tours, world-class wines, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly community, outdoor recreation, shopping, or cultural experiences, Morgan Hill in Temecula delivers an exceptional lifestyle with all these amenities within easy reach.

Here are the current offering in Morgan Hill

Thank you,

Scott and Caroline Doan Realtors®

(951) 541-3498

Realty Executives

28581 Old Town Front St. #100

Temecula, Ca. 92591

doanhomesale@gmail.com

Download our Real Estate search APP.

DRE#02248461

The Summer Finale: What Trends are shaping real estate?

(Published on - 8/7/2025 9:56:41 PM)

Hello we are Scott and Caroline Doan of Realty Executives. As summer winds down, have observed an exciting shift in the local real estate market—buyers starting to become aware of end-of-summer deals and creative financing options.

We are seeing how creative financing strategies, such as buydown options, are encouraging buyers to act now and take advantage of current price reductions. Later on once interest rates decrease the buyer can refinance. In fact many lenders are willing to refinance the loan at no charge, further benefiting buyers.

Here’s how a buydown works:

A buydown is a financing strategy where the buyer pays upfront points or fees to reduce the mortgage interest rate, resulting in lower monthly payments. Essentially, the buyer "buys down" the interest rate to make the loan more affordable.

Two common types of buydowns:

-Permanent Buydown: The buyer pays points at closing to secure a lower interest rate for the life of the loan. For example, paying upfront might reduce the rate from 4% to 3.5%, saving money over the long term.

- Temporary Buydown: The interest rate is reduced for a set period, typically the first few years. A common option is a **2-1 buydown**, which lowers the rate for the first two years before adjusting to the full rate. This can help buyers manage their initial payments and establish financial stability.

Which buydown is most attractive today?

In our current market, many sellers are willing to negotiate by offering concessions that help buyers opt for a temporary buydown. The **2-1 buydown** is especially popular because it requires less money and makes monthly payments more manageable during the early years of the mortgage. This can help buyers qualify for loans more easily.

But why are the end-of-summer deals so aggressive this year?

Living in Southern California, summer is traditionally a busy season for real estate. However, this summer has been quieter than usual. Properties that are selling tend to stand out— because they’re priced below comparable homes, feature special attributes like views or larger lots, are meticulously maintained, and many sellers are offering concessions.

Why does this matter? Because these trends are not just passing fads—they’re creating buzz, increasing competition, and opening new doors for savvy participants. Our concern, is for buyers waiting for the “perfect moment.” Having nearly 30 years of experience, we’ve seen this before: buyers tend to enter the market only when there's a buying buzz. The problem? The initial buyers, who jump in early, often secure the best deals, leaving subsequent buyers to contend with shrinking inventory and fewer opportunities. As inventory diminishes, the latecomers might feel regret—thinking, “If only I had purchased six months ago.” Don’t let that be you. If you are in a market like ours and you’re ready to make a move, now is truly the time to act.

We’d love to hear your thoughts:

What trends do you anticipate shaping the next six months in real estate?

How are you leveraging end-of-summer deals or creative financing strategies?

What new opportunities are emerging as summer comes to a close?

Let’s start the conversation—your insights could help others navigate this evolving landscape!

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. https://instacard.co/Scott-Doan/home

Thank you,

Scott and Caroline Doan Realtors®

(951) 541-3498

Realty Executives

28581 Old Town Front St. #100

Temecula, Ca. 92591

doanhomesale@gmail.com

Download our Real Estate search APP.

DRE#02248461

What trends will shape the real estate market over the next six months

(Published on - 8/7/2025 9:46:07 PM)

What trends will shape the real estate market over the next six months?

We are seeing how creative financing strategies, such as buydown options, are encouraging buyers to act now and take advantage of current price reductions. Later on once interest rates decrease the buyer can refinance. In fact many lenders are willing to refinance the loan at no charge, further benefiting buyers.

Here’s how a buydown works:

Two common types of buydowns:

-Permanent Buydown: The buyer pays points at closing to secure a lower interest rate for the life of the loan. For example, paying upfront might reduce the rate from 4% to 3.5%, saving money over the long term.

- Temporary Buydown: The interest rate is reduced for a set period, typically the first few years. A common option is a **2-1 buydown**, which lowers the rate for the first two years before adjusting to the full rate. This can help buyers manage their initial payments and establish financial stability.

Which buydown is most attractive today?

But why are the end-of-summer deals so aggressive this year?

Living in Southern California, summer is traditionally a busy season for real estate. However, this summer has a different trend. The market has been quieter than usual. The properties that are selling have to stand out in several ways, such as pricing below comparable homes, feature special attributes like views or larger lots, are meticulously maintained, and offering concessions.

Why does this matter? Because these trends are not just passing fads—they’re will start to create a buzz among savvy buyers. Our concern, is for buyers waiting for the “perfect moment.” We’ve seen this before: buyers tend to enter the market only when there's a buying buzz. The problem? The initial buyers, who jump in early, often secure the best deals, leaving subsequent buyers to contend with shrinking inventory and fewer opportunities. As inventory diminishes, the latecomers might feel regret—thinking, “If only I had purchased six months ago.” Don’t let that be you.

Considering a purchase in the Southern California? Let's talk. call us at 951-541-3495, or connect here https://lnkd.in/gbCft9Ci

Here is their contact information:

Scott and Caroline Doan, Realtors®
(951) 541-3498
Realty Executives
28581 Old Town Front St. #100
Temecula, CA 92591
doanhomesale@gmail.com
Download our Real Estate Search APP.

DRE#02248461

The Doan Team: Turning Passion into Purpose

(Published on - 8/6/2025 8:14:48 PM)

The Doan Team: Turning Passion into Purpose in Southern California Real Estate

UPDATED July 31, 2025 Alysia Heun

The Doan Team of Realty Executives Temecula Valley.

In the heart of Southern California’s dynamic real estate market, the Doan Team stands out not just for their expertise, but for the heart and soul they bring to every transaction. Scott and Caroline Doan, a husband-and-wife duo affiliated with Realty Executives Temecula Valley, exemplify what it means to build a real estate business grounded in integrity, trust, and authentic connection.

Their journey from different careers—and even different states—into real estate is one of vision, adaptability, and a genuine love for helping people. Now serving clients across Temecula, Murrieta, Fallbrook, Menifee, South Orange County, and North San Diego, the Doans have built a business that is as much about people as it is about property.

A Journey Built on Experience—and Love

Caroline’s path into real estate started while building a custom home in Florida. Relocating from California, she worked closely with the builder to construct her new home, and her natural ability to connect and lead soon earned her a role heading up his sales department. She quickly expanded beyond sales and became involved in everything from design to engineering, working hand-in-hand with buyers to help bring their dream homes to life.

When the builder retired, Caroline transitioned into general real estate and joined one of Florida’s top teams, The Darda Group, where she deepened her knowledge and sharpened her skills. “That experience taught me that being a Realtor® goes far beyond showing homes,” she reflects. “It’s about guiding people through one of the biggest decisions of their lives.”

Meanwhile, Scott was working in the software industry, focused on client engagement and technology. That experience, it turns out, would be a perfect complement to Caroline’s sales and construction background. After marrying in 2015, the two decided to join forces and form the Doan Team.

“Today, real estate involves so many moving parts,” Scott explains. “From negotiations and scheduling to inspections, contracts, and marketing—it’s complex. I coordinate all of those behind-the-scenes logistics so that our clients have a smooth, stress-free experience.”

Together, Scott and Caroline are a powerful blend of operational precision and client-centric service.

The Power of Professional Growth

The Doan Team’s success is rooted in an ongoing commitment to professional development. As the market evolves, so does their knowledge base and skill set. They place a high value on continuous learning, staying up to date with laws, market trends, and emerging technologies.

“Training, education, and adaptability are essential,” they shared. “Equally important are effective communication, strong negotiation skills, and always acting with integrity. Building a reliable network of clients and industry professionals has been key to our long-term growth.”

Their dedication to excellence isn’t a one-time effort; It’s a daily discipline. The result? A growing clientele, repeat business, and a reputation for genuinely caring.

Finding a Home at Realty Executives Temecula Valley

When the couple made the decision to return to California to be closer to family, the choice of brokerage wasn’t an obvious one—at first.

In Florida, they were with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, and continuing with the same brand in California might have seemed like a natural choice. But fate had other plans. Through a connection with a local loan officer and a serendipitous photo snapped in Old Town Temecula, the Doans were introduced to Realty Executives Temecula Valley.

“It turned out that the loan officer’s best friend owned the real estate brokerage we had photographed while we were searching for an office,” Caroline recalls. “When John Lewis reached out, we knew instantly that Realty Executives was the perfect fit.”

They were already familiar with the Realty Executives name and their reputation for attracting top-tier agents. The boutique feel, combined with robust support and a collaborative environment, sealed the deal. “We love the culture of excellence and the entrepreneurial spirit here. It feels like home.”

Lessons from Building a Business—Together

Working as a married couple brings its own set of dynamics, and the Doans have embraced it with grace and clarity. “People always ask what it’s like to work with your spouse,” they laugh. “The key is defining clear roles and maintaining open communication.”

They don’t see real estate as “just business”—it’s part of their shared lifestyle. Every day is an opportunity to meet new people, build relationships, and help others.

Their advice for anyone considering starting a team? “You must know every aspect of the business inside and out. Otherwise, your team will struggle, and you’ll be frustrated. And stay open to innovative ideas—this industry is always changing.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, the Doan Team’s goals are rooted in their values. “We want to continue doing what we love—helping people with dedication and integrity. This profession isn’t about sales to us—it’s about creating connections and making a meaningful difference.”

They plan to expand their business while preserving the personalized service that has defined their brand. “We love walking with our clients on their journey. It’s not always easy, but we aim to make it manageable, one confident step at a time.”

For the Doans, real estate is not just a job, it’s a calling. Their fulfillment comes from knowing they’re helping people navigate one of life’s most significant milestones.

Words of Wisdom for New Agents

Reflecting on their own journey, the Doans have valuable advice for those just starting out. “Stay true to who you are. That first day with your license in hand can be exciting—and overwhelming. But that uncertainty is also your opportunity.”

Their success has been built on patience, consistency, and staying grounded. “Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Be smart with your finances, and don’t let your ego get in the way. Humility and authenticity will take you far.”

They emphasize that success in real estate doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of steady growth, learning from mistakes, and showing up every day ready to serve.

More Than Agents—Trusted Guides

The Doan Team’s favorite part of the job is being there for their clients through life transitions. “Buying or selling a home is rarely simple, but it can be smooth with the right guide. We see ourselves as partners in our clients’ journeys.”

Their approach centers on truly listening to each client’s needs and goals. “We don’t just help you find a house—we help you reach your destination, one step at a time.”

This commitment to thoughtful, attentive service is what sets them apart—and it’s why clients return again and again.

A Fun Twist to Their Story

Behind their professionalism is a charming personal story. Scott is a proud Georgia Bulldog, while Caroline is a lifelong UCLA Bruin. Despite their collegiate rivalry, they met on Match.com and turned their online connection into a real-life romance—and now, a successful business partnership.

“We like to say we’re real estate matchmakers,” they joke. “Corny? Maybe. But it’s true!” Their story is a testament to finding the right partner—in love and in business—and building a life filled with purpose, passion, and positivity.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options in the Southern California market, the Doan Team is ready to help you navigate the process with confidence and care. 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. https://instacard.co/Scott-Doan/home

Scott and Caroline Doan, Realtors®
Realty Executives Temecula Valley
28581 Old Town Front St. #100 Temecula, CA 92591
(951) 541-3498
doanhomesale@gmail.com

Understanding Closing Costs: Purchase vs. Mortgage-Related Expenses

(Published on - 8/4/2025 8:07:25 PM)

When buying a home in California, it's important to understand that closing costs fall into two primary categories:

1. Costs Related to the Home Purchase:
These are expenses directly tied to transferring ownership of the property itself. Examples include escrow fees, recording fees, transfer taxes, home inspections, broker compensation, prepaid property taxes, and sometimes costs for repairs or warranties negotiated in the sale.

2. Costs Related to the Mortgage Acquisition:
These are direct costs associated with obtaining a mortgage loan. They include lender fees, appraisal, credit reports, mortgage insurance, and broker compensation.

Who Pays What?
Cash Buyers. Only pay costs related to the home purchase since they are not getting a mortgage.
Mortgage Buyers. Pay both the home purchase-related costs and the lender-related costs.

Why Are Closing Costs Different in Every Transaction?  Closing costs vary from one transaction to another because they are influenced by several factors:

1) Loan Type: Conventional, FHA, VA, or other loan programs have different fee structures.
2) Property Value: Higher-value homes typically incur higher transfer and recording taxes.
3) Lender and Loan Details: Different lenders charge different origination, processing, and broker fees. 4) The loan structure: loan amount, interest rate, and whether you buy discount points also impact costs.
5) Negotiations and Local Regulations: Seller concessions, negotiated repairs, negotiated broker compensation and local taxes can make each closing unique.

Let's review some typical costs Related to the Mortgage Acquisition:

1) Loan Origination Fees:  Usually 0.5% to 1.5% of the loan amount, covering processing and underwriting.
2) Loan Processing Fees:  Administrative costs for handling your application.
3) Credit Report Fees: pay for credit checks.
4) Appraisal Fees: pay to assess property value.
5) Discount Points: Optional payments to lower your interest rate (about 1% of the loan per point). Also known as an interest rate buy down. We will expand on this in an upcoming blog.
6) Lender’s Title Insurance:  Protects the lender from ownership disputes, paid by the buyer based on the loan size.
7) Prepaid Interest: Prepaying interest from closing date to the next mortgage payment.
8) Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): If your down payment is below 20%, PMI is typically required and can be paid upfront or monthly. (read our blog about the SALT deduction which reinstated PMI as a tax write off in 2025)

9) Prepaid Homeowners Insurance: Homeowners insurance is essential for protecting your property and is often required by lenders. Typically, you’ll need to prepay the first year's premium at closing, either as a lump sum or escrowed into your monthly mortgage payments. This ensures your home is insured immediately after transfer.

Let's review Costs Related to the Home Purchase and are not directly related to your mortgage:

1) Escrow Fees:   Paid to the escrow company handling the transaction, often split between buyer and seller.
2) Recording Fees:  Government charges for officially recording the deed and transfer of ownership, varying by county.
3) Transfer Taxes:  State and local taxes based on the property's sale price.
4) Home Inspection Fees:  Costs for inspections such as general, termite, or pest inspections.
5) Prepaid Property Taxes:  You might prepay taxes for the upcoming year or reimburse the seller for pre-paid taxes.
6) Home Warranties or Repairs:  Sometimes included as part of negotiations, influencing final costs.
6) Broker Compensation:  Real estate agent or broker fees, which can often be negotiated with the seller or included in the purchase agreement.

In Summary:
Your total closing costs can vary widely depending on your loan type, property specifics, and negotiations. Understanding what costs are associated with the property purchase versus your mortgage helps you plan effectively and avoid surprises at closing.

Note: A responsible Realtor should refrain from providing a ballpark estimate of potential closing costs to clients because of the following reasons:

1. Variability and Complexity:  Closing costs are highly specific to each transaction, influenced by factors such as the loan type, property value, location, lender charges, negotiated terms, and more. Providing a rough estimate can lead to misconceptions or false expectations about the total expense.
2. Legal and Ethical Duty:  Real estate professionals have a fiduciary duty to provide accurate, transparent, and up-to-date information. Offering ballpark figures without detailed analysis can be misleading and may compromise their ethical obligation to act in the client’s best interest.
3. Risk of Misleading the Client:  Inaccurate estimates might cause clients to underestimate their financial obligations, potentially leading to budgeting issues or difficulty at closing, which can damage trust and cause delays.
4. Encourages Due Diligence and Proper Planning:  Instead, responsible Realtors encourage clients to review official documents like the Loan Estimate and to work closely with lenders to get precise, personalized estimates early in the process, ensuring clients have a realistic understanding tailored to their specific situation.

Iit’s best practice for Realtors to advise clients to rely on official documents and direct communications with lenders for precise costs, avoiding ballpark estimates that lack reliability and could potentially mislead. As your Realtors, we are committed to guiding you in the right direction and helping you obtain accurate, relevant information tailored to your specific transaction. Our goal is to ensure you’re well-informed and confident throughout your homebuying journey.

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.

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