Buying

July 31, 2026

What are hidden costs when you buy a home?

Buying a house hidden cost

The "Sticker Price" Lie: 3 Hidden Homeownership Costs That Will Rob Your Wallet

Congratulations! You saved up a down payment, got pre-approved for a mortgage, and finally found the house with the dreamy kitchen island. You run the numbers: $2,500 a month for principal and interest? Easy. …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 28, 2026

What are Common Home Inspection Issues for Waterfront Properties?

Waterfront luxury home

Waterfront homes face unique environmental and structural challenges that can significantly impact their value, safety, and enjoyment. Here are the most common inspection issues to watch for:

1. Water Damage and Moisture Intrusion
Proximity to water increases humidity and the risk of moisture seeping into walls, floors, and …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 26, 2026

How do you protect the privacy and discretion of high-net-worth clients during a transaction?

Confidential

Privacy is a cornerstone of Scott Kien's luxury real estate practice. From initial neighborhood tours to final escrow signatures, all client identities, financial details, and strategic motivations remain strictly confidential. Scott frequently coordinates with wealth managers, real estate attorneys, and family offices to execute seamless transactions utilizing blind trusts, …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 26, 2026

What unique factors should luxury buyers consider when purchasing a waterfront home in Huntington Harbour?

 

Huntington Harbor Marina

Purchasing premium waterfront real estate in Huntington Harbour requires specialized knowledge of coastal property dynamics. Luxury buyers must evaluate private boat slip dimensions, bulkhead maintenance responsibilities, main channel access, and strict California Coastal Commission guidelines. As a specialized luxury buyer's agent, Scott Kien meticulously evaluates these structural …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 20, 2026

What is a moving checklist?

MOVING CHECKLIST

RELOCATING? LIST OF IMPORTANT TO-DOS

BEFORE & AFTER YOU SETTLE INTO YOUR NEW HOME

1 MONTH PRIOR TO MOVE

Change your address with the post office.

Change your address with the IRS.

Hire a moving company or rent a moving vehicle.

… View More
Posted in Buying, Selling
June 19, 2026

What are the most common home inspection problems?

 

What are the most common home inspection problems?

Home inspections typically reveal defects in nearly 86% of properties. 

The most common issues found fall into five major categories: roofing problems, faulty electrical wiring, plumbing leaks, faulty HVAC systems, and improper foundation or drainage

1. …

View More
Posted in Buying, Selling
June 17, 2026

Why Buy a House or Condo?

condo pic

Condo vs. House: The Ultimate Property Showdown

House hunting right now is a wild ride. One of the biggest forks in the road is deciding whether to buy a low-maintenance condo or go all-in on a single-family home.

Let’s break down the battle so you can pick …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 5, 2026

How Do I Buy Real Estate If I Have No Social Security Number

1. The Cash Purchase Route

If you have the necessary funds, you can buy a property entirely in cash. You do not need an SSN, credit history, or legal residency status. You simply need a valid, government-issued photo identification (such as a foreign passport) to open an escrow …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 4, 2026

How to Understand rental property economics

Rental property economics revolves around generating positive cash flow and building long-term equity through rent collection, market appreciation, and tax advantages. Success requires balancing rental income against operating costs and debt service to yield a healthy return on investment (ROI).

 

1. The Core Revenue & Cost …

View More
Posted in Buying
June 1, 2026

Orange County Luxury Market Update

The luxury market in Orange County slowed over the past couple of weeks.

In the past couple of weeks, the luxury home inventory priced above $2.5 million (the top 10% of the Orange County housing market) increased from 987 to 1,041, up 54 units, or 5%. Luxury demand …

View More