In real estate, not every escrow is straightforward. Some test every ounce of knowledge, patience, and persistence you have — especially when the unexpected arises. Recently, I managed a transaction in Point Loma that reminded me how critical it is to stay calm, informed, and proactive when things don’t go as planned.
What began as a typical sale quickly revealed itself to be anything but. Structural issues and an inaccurate termite clearance report created a web of confusion between multiple parties. Incomplete statutory disclosures further complicated matters, raising concerns that could have derailed the transaction entirely. Ensuring the buyer ultimately received the full and accurate set of disclosures was a critical step toward a successful closing — and one that required diligence, persistence, and professionalism.
In these situations, experience matters. Understanding what’s required by the California Department of Consumer Affairs’ Structural Pest Control Board and how to properly hold service providers accountable made all the difference. With persistence, we achieved a resolution that protected my client — at no cost to them or the seller — while ensuring compliance with state standards. And throughout it all, staying focused on facts and solutions — rather than emotion — kept the transaction on course and productive for everyone involved.
The way an offer is written can make or break a deal — especially when timing is tight. In this case, our offer incorporated every term the seller had previously expressed as important, creating immediate alignment and trust. Just before our offer expired, another came in, and by the time the seller accepted ours, an additional higher offer surfaced. Both of those later offers stayed in a back-up position and never came to fruition.
Moments like this are a reminder that representation matters. Real estate isn’t just about getting a property under contract — it’s about strategy, timing, and experience. Too often, sellers or buyers focus on commission savings instead of expertise, not realizing that skilled representation can directly affect their bottom line. The right agent anticipates these scenarios, manages timing, and protects value and provides informed guidance every step of the way. In the end, knowledge and experience pay for themselves — often many times over.
Real estate isn’t just about finding the right home; it’s about navigating the process with integrity and expertise when challenges arise. The goal is always a fair, fact-based outcome where all parties can move forward confidently.
If you’re preparing to sell or purchase in San Diego — particularly in older coastal neighborhoods like Point Loma — it’s essential to have an advocate who understands both the property and the process.
I’d be happy to share what I’ve learned from handling these complex cases to help ensure your next transaction moves smoothly from start to finish.
