Forget the cosmetic updates, today's buyers are laser focused on the big three: roof, HVAC, and plumbing. As a listing agent and buyer's agent in North San Diego County, I am seeing this firsthand on both sides of every transaction. Especially this year. Here is what sellers need to know before listing and buyers to understand before their home search.

"Tracy knows her stuff, she’s informative and candid. We were pleased with her professionalism and how she guides you step by step. Our house was on the market for a few days and then went right into escrow. It went quick and smoothly due to her diligence and persistence. We definitely recommend her."
- Sellers of 1215 Calle Ultimo

Active

• 369 Justina Drive, Oceanside | 5 Bedroom 3 Bath | 3211 SqFt | Exquisite Curb Appeal & Stunning Floor Plan

Under Contract

• 1265 Barger Place, Ramona | Representing Buyer

Sold

• 1215 Calle Ultimo, Oceanside | Offer Accepted First Weekend On Market & Closed In 2 Weeks

Prices are up 3% year-to-date and sales are climbing in North San Diego County but sellers are only receiving 98.2% of list price. Now that we're deep in summer, the market tends to quiet down as people are on vacation and families prepping for school. If you are a buyer, this is a wonderful window of opportunity. If you are thinking of selling before year's end, factor in preparation time and average days on market (which has been increasing) and the time to talk is soon.

A new bill in Congress could give homeowners over 65 a significant tax break when selling a home they have owned for 25 or more years. If you or someone you know is thinking about downsizing, this proposed legislation is worth knowing about.

Just Listed in The Missions in Oceanside! From the moment you pull up, this home stops you. A curved brick staircase, glowing lanterns, towering palms, and lush layered landscaping set the stage for what's inside. Soaring vaulted ceilings, an expansive kitchen with walk-in pantry, a main floor bedroom and bath, and an upstairs primary suite that feels like its own world. Meticulously maintained and move-in ready in one of Ivey Ranch's most coveted neighborhoods.

Offered at $1,350,000

Call me today for a private showing!
760-717-1891

Tracy Creighton
Compass
DRE #02080232

The North San Diego County market is showing some buyer-friendly signs through May. Sales are climbing and prices have dipped slightly again. Homes are moving faster than previous months for the prime properties. Here is what the latest numbers mean and what it could mean for your next move.

If you have mulch in your yard, there is something important you should know, especially living in Southern California. Not all mulch is fire safe and where you place it matters just as much as what type you use. A quick read that could make a real difference.

When it comes to selling your home, visibility and timing are everything. That is where the Compass Coming Soon program comes in and the results speak for themselves.

As a Compass agent, I have access to exclusive tools that most agents simply do not. Through an exclusive partnership between Compass and Redfin, your home receives premium placement on Redfin.com, prioritized in search results and featured ahead of other listings. Coming Soon listings are also highly ranked on Google, ensuring serious buyers find your home first.

What makes this especially powerful for sellers is what buyers do not see. Your listing reaches 60 million buyers on Redfin.com without days on market, price drop history, status change history, or automated home valuation estimates that can quietly undermine your home's perceived value.

This benefit is exclusively available through Compass agents and it can make a real difference in how your home enters the market. If you are thinking about selling, let's talk about how to put this powerful tool to work for you.

The North San Diego County spring market is active with sales climbing, and new listings on par with last year. April’s numbers show prices are dipping slightly and homes taking a bit longer to sell, all signs that buyers may have a slight advantage heading into summer. Here is what it all means for your next move.

San Diego County property taxes were due last week but before you move on, take five minutes to review two key items on your bill that could save you money and protect your home. Plus one extra step every homeowner in San Diego County should take right now.

The North San Diego County spring market is showing real momentum as March numbers show. Home sales are up, prices are holding firm, and inventory remains tight. Here is what the latest numbers tell us and what it means if a move is on your horizon.

"We had a wonderful time working with Tracy to purchase our first home. She was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, patient, and kind throughout the entire process. Tracy went above and beyond for us to answer any questions and make us feel comfortable along the way. She is our realtor for life! Thank you Tracy!"

"Tracy was with us every step of the way. She ensured us that we were doing the right thing by getting an inspection and thoroughly going through all of the details. She treats each transaction as if she was buying the home for herself. Thank you Tracy."

The median home sold in San Diego last year was 43 years old, and 71% were over 30 years old, well above the national average. Older homes can mean a lower price tag, but also higher maintenance costs down the road. Here's what the data shows and what to keep in mind.

Daylight saving time is the perfect reminder to do two simple things that could protect your home and family for years to come, all for under $50 and doesn’t involve changing batteries. Plus, did you know California has specific requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? Find out if your home is up to code.

“Our second time working with Tracy and it was as awesome as the first. Tracy is strategic, a great communicator and super responsive. Whether you are buying or selling your home Tracy is the Realtor you need!” -⁣ Seller, 241 S Sierra Avenue, Solana Beach

⁣The home first hit the market during the pre-holiday slowdown and momentum stalled so we hit pause and took it off the market. I built a new pricing and marketing strategy, relaunched in January, and the result was multiple offers the first weekend back.⁣ Timing matters. Strategy matters. Experience matters. Grateful for clients who trust my plan, twice.⁣

Sold for $1,700,000⁣. Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor, Tracy Creighton

February's North San Diego County real estate market held steady on price while sales ticked up slightly, even as new listings continued to fall. With the spring selling season now officially here, inventory and timing will be everything for both buyers and sellers.

“Your house is your most valuable asset, so you want the best agent to represent you. Tracy Creighton’s that person.She has a Master’s degree plus years of experience and is a super-star. She knows the realty business inside out and anticipates what will be required, efficiently producing the best results in the shortest time with the fewest worries. She is so talented she makes it look easy. We are happy Tracy was our agent. She did a phenomenal job for us. “ - Seller, 326 Justina Drive, Oceanside, The Missions in Ivey Ranch

Sold for $1,270,000 with multiple offers after one weekend on the market during the holidays. Strategy is everything. Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor, Tracy Creighton.

Sold

• 326 Justina Drive, Oceanside | Sold Above List Price |  Multiple Offers Received First Weekend On Market

• 2747 Via Del Robles, Fallbrook | Represented Buyer | Beat Out Multiple Offers

Under Contract

• 241 S Sierra Ave, Solana Beach | Multiple Offers Received First Weekend On Market

• 559 Avenida Aguila, San Marcos | Representing Buyer