Who's Who in Southern California Housing?

Who do I call when I want to buy a home?

REALTOR®: Before you begin your search for a new home, interview REALTORS® in the geographic area in which you intend to buy. A local REALTOR® is not just a real estate agent. He or she is a Real Estate Professional, licensed by the State of California (if you are purchasing in California), and a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, subscribing to its strict Code of Ethics. Southern California REALTORS® on the web include:

• Jan Maier of Century-21 Gold Coat Realty, Lakewood. Visit her web page for links to local cities and photos of listings, or e-mail her at MaierJan@aol.com .
• The Team of Cheryl Moore and Chris Crunk of Century-21 Astro, in Cerritos. E-mail to averymoore@aol.com. (Note: Chris will be on-line soon).
• Aurora Pleto of ERA First Star Real Estate, Lakewood, CA.
  E-mail to AuroraPleto@HomeSeekers.com

Loan Officer / Lender: Mortgage loans are available from a variety of sources - mortgage bankers (such as FFC), brokers, institutional investors, banks, savings and loan associations and credit unions. Most loan officers will prequalify you to purchase a home BEFORE you go house hunting. Make sure this service is free and don't forget to interview your loan officer. Your Webmaster has been a loan officer for 15 years; I would be happy to answer any questions by e-mail at MacnSan@aol.com.

Escrow: In Southern California, the Escrow Officer acts as an independent third party. He or she is responsible for holding all funds (i.e., your deposit) in trust, along with the Seller's deed. He or she also insures that all documents have been properly completed and recorded. I use Cardinal Pacific Escrow, the largest independent escrow company in Long Beach. With 10 escrow officers, they offer complete service. You can e-mail co-owner P.J. Bremer at ohpj@msn.com, call (310) 493-9393 or fax to (310) 493-9357.

Document Signing Services: Why lose a day's wages to take off work to sign your loan documents, when for a very small fee a Notary Public can come to you at work or home? Freelance Escrow Officer Robert McSherry has over 12 years experience and offers professional, quality service - days, evenings and weekends. Well respected in the industry, Southern California escrow companies and lenders often call on Robert when their work load is overwhelming. E-mail Robert at ohrobert@aol.com or page him at (310) 938-9390.

Title Insurance: The Title Insurance Company insures clear title to the property you are buying. The Seller customarily pays for the more expensive owner's policy and you, the buyer, purchase the required concurrent policy, which protects both you and the lender against clouds on title. Title Companies on the web include:

• Commonwealth Land, Gene Kraft, Acct. Mgr., (800) 950-9772.
• California Counties, Louise Oshiro, Acct. Mgr., (800) 441-4211, ext. 1415

Property Inspector: Some lenders and certain loan programs will require that a qualified home inspector examine the home you've chosen, from baseboards to attic. The inspection includes an evaluation of the home's plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems, roof and structural stability. It's actually a good idea to pay for a home inspection even if it isn't required. It's a wise investment.

Home Warranty Companies: In Southern California, it is not unusual for a Seller to pay for a Home Warranty. This $200+ investment warranties most major systems (electrical, plumbing, mechanical, heating, etc.) in your home for one year after purchase. Some warranties even cover major structural defects. If the Seller won't pay for it, consider paying for it yourself. One well respected company is Builders Home Warranty at (800) 786-9130.

For services not listed above, please use search engines below.