About teresa munguia
Licensed since 1995 and proudly serving the beautiful communities of San Diego, I’ve spent nearly three decades helping families, just like yours, buy and sell homes with confidence and peace of mind.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of helping first-time buyers become proud homeowners — and many of those same families have returned to me to help them upgrade to their second or even third home. Some of my favorite clients are now grandparents, just like me, and I’ve had the honor of helping their children take their first steps into homeownership too.
I believe in doing real estate the “old-school” way — through honest communication,
careful guidance, and hands-on support every step of the way. I don’t just negotiate offers. I walk with you through the process, explaining every step in plain language, answering every question, and holding your hand from start to finish. And even after we close, I’m still here — as your Realtor, your resource, and your friend.
Real estate isn’t just my job — it’s my passion. I love what I do, and I care deeply about the people I work with. If you’re ready to take the next step, whether it’s your first home or your forever home, I would be honored to be part of your journey.
Let’s make it happen — together.
Your First Home Awaits
Unleash the Power of a First-Time Homebuyer’s Agent!
Embarking on the journey to homeownership for the first time? Congratulations! This is an exciting milestone, and having a dedicated guide by your side can make all the difference. Here’s why enlisting the expertise of a First-Time Homebuyer’s Agent is your key to unlocking the door to your dream home.
Educational Guidance: Buying your first home can be overwhelming, but fear not! Your First-Time Homebuyer’s Agent is not just a guide; they are your personal educator. From understanding the homebuying process to explaining complex terms, your agent ensures you’re informed every step of the way.
Financial Roadmap: Navigating the financial aspects of buying a home can be tricky. Your agent helps you chart a clear financial roadmap, assisting with budgeting, explaining mortgage options, and ensuring you’re well-prepared for the financial responsibilities that come with homeownership.
Access to First-Time Buyer Programs: Many areas offer special programs and incentives for first-time buyers. Your agent is well-versed in these opportunities, helping you take advantage of grants, low-interest loans, and other initiatives that make homeownership more accessible for first-timers.
Market Insight: Understanding the local real estate market is crucial. Your FirstTime Homebuyer’s Agent provides insights into market trends, property values, and potential growth areas, empowering you to make informed decisions and secure a home that aligns with your long-term goals.
Negotiation Support: The art of negotiation is a key element in real estate. Your agent is your advocate, skilled in negotiating the best terms, ensuring you get the most value for your investment, and helping you navigate potential hurdles with confidence.
Property Selection Guidance: With so many options on the market, it’s essential to narrow down your choices. Your agent listens to your needs, preferences, and priorities, presenting you with homes that match your criteria and guiding you through the selection process.
Coordination of Inspections and Paperwork: Home inspections, paperwork, and legalities – oh my! Your First-Time Homebuyer’s Agent takes care of the logistics, coordinating inspections, handling paperwork, and ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements for a smooth and stress-free transaction.
Post-Purchase Support: The journey doesn’t end at closing. Your agent provides post-purchase support, connecting you with resources for home maintenance, introducing you to the community, and ensuring a smooth transition into your new home.
Your first home is more than a purchase; it’s the start of a new chapter. Let a First-Time Homebuyer’s Agent be your trusted companion on this exciting adventure. Together, we’ll turn the key to your dream home and unlock the door to a future filled with comfort, security, and the pride of homeownership.
Why You Need a True Expert in Today’s Housing Market
In today’s fast-changing housing market, having a trusted real estate agent is more important than ever. It’s essential to work with an agent who can guide you through every step of the process.
The reality is, not all agents operate the same way. To truly make a powerful and confident decision as you buy a home, you need a real estate expert who uses their knowledge of what’s really happening with home prices, housing supply, industry projections, and more to give you the best possible advice. Someone you can trust and who can provide clarity is essential to your success. Says Jay Thompson, Real Estate Industry Consultant:
“Housing market headlines are everywhere. Many are quite sensational, ending with exclamation points or predicting impending doom for the industry. The sensationalizing of headlines and content has been an issue since the dawn of the internet, and housing news is not immune to it.”
Unfortunately, when information in the media isn’t clear, it can generate a lot of fear and uncertainty in the market. Says Jason Lewris, Co-Founder and Chief Data Officer at Parcl:
“In the absence of trust worthy, current information, real estate decisions are increasingly being driven by fear, uncertainty, and doubt.”
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Buying a home is a big decision, and it should be one
you feel confident making. You can lean on an expert to help you separate fact from fiction and get the answers you need.
The right agent can assist you in figuring out what’s going on at the national level and in your local area. They can debunk headlines using data you can trust. Experts have in-depth knowledge of the industry and can provide context, so you know how current trends compare to the normal ebbs and flows in the housing market, historical data, and more.
Then, to make sure you have the full picture, an agent can tell you if your local area is following the national trend or if they’re seeing something different in your market. Together, you can use all that information to make the best possible decision.
Making a move is a potentially life-changing milestone. It should be something you feel ready for and excited about.
And that’s where a trusted expert comes in.
UNDERSTANDING BUYER REPRESENTATION
Let’s explore the different scenarios we may encounter together.
1
Seller Is Providing Compensation To Buyer’s Agent
• This payment method is the most common and traditional for buyer’s agents.
• Aside from any administrative fees, no additional funds are required from the buyer.
• Your agent will ensure in advance that the homes you want to view provide compensation for their services.
2
Seller Is Offering Partial Compensation
In this scenario, the seller(s) have opted to offer a lower-than-usual commission to the buyer’s agent. This can usually be resolved in one of the following ways:
• Your agent negotiates with the listing agent to obtain the full commission.
• The buyer consents to raise the purchase price to cover the commission shortfall.
• The buyer agrees to pay their agent directly at closing to cover the difference.
3
Seller Is Not Providing Any Compensation To Buyer’s Agents
In this scenario, the seller(s) have opted to compensate only their own agents and are not offering any payment to a buyer’s agent for bringing a buyer to purchase their home.
• All the options listed in #2 above apply here.
• While this situation is the least common of the three scenarios, it’s important to be aware that it can occasionally occur.
EXPLORING the Buyer Representation Agreement
By now you’ve probably read or heard about the significant changes happening in real estate and how those changes will affect home buyers and sellers. Thanks to the California Association of REALTORS®, the trade association your REALTOR® belongs to, the process of purchasing a home has recently evolved to provide more clarity and transparency for consumers like you.
One of the new requirements is that buyers must sign a written Buyer Representation Agreement before touring a home with an agent. This is a positive development for both consumers and agents because it facilitates conversations to help homebuyers better understand the process and learn the right questions to ask agents, including what they’re going to do for their clients.
The agreement explains how your REALTOR® will act as your dedicated and professional guide. It also outlines their ethical and fiduciary duties to represent you
to the best of their ability. The terms of the agreement are negotiated between you and your REALTOR®. Together, you decide how long the representation lasts, and when and if to extend or end the agreement.
The Buyer Representation Agreement ensures that you and your REALTOR® are on the same page about the terms of your collaboration. It is designed to facilitate trust and efficiency in what is a hugely complex process. Buying a home is one of the largest, most consequential purchases of your life. It is crucial to have someone on your side who can help you understand the legal documents such as purchase agreements, disclosures, and reports. A buyer’s agent ensures that you are aware of your rights and obligations, to protect you from potential legal pitfalls. Signing a Buyer Representation Agreement is the first step in solidifying a rewarding and productive collaboration with your REALTOR® .
In short, the Buyer Representation Agreement will:
Spell out the buyer’s agent’s responsibilities during the time they represent you
Explain what your agent will do on your behalf, thereby providing more transparency in the transaction
Record exactly what and how they will be paid for their services
Ensure that you have an expert on your side as you negotiate the complex process of buying a home
The Difference Between Renting and Buying a Home
When deciding between buying a home or renting, think about these three important factors.
Buying a Home Means Avoiding Rising Rents
When You Rent: Your monthly payment generally goes up each time you sign or renew a lease.
When You Buy: With your fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payment is locked in for the length of your home loan.
Homeowners Own a Tangible and Valuable Asset
...the
When You Rent: You won’t get any return on your investment as you pay your rent monthly.
When You Buy: As home prices rise, and as you pay down your home loan, you build equity.
Owning Your Home Grows Your Wealth Over Time
When You Rent: When the cost of renting goes up, it’s more difficult to save money for a down payment to buy a home.
– Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, NAR
When You Buy: As you build equity through the years, you give your net worth a big boost.
Top Reasons to own your home
Accomplishment
Feeling a sense of achievement and pride
Financial Investment
Growing your assets and net worth
Personal
Expression
Tailoring your home to your unique style
Loved Ones
Prioritizing the needs of those closest to you
Comfort
Enjoying features that enhance your lifestyle
Community
Being a part of a broader social group
Stability
Locking in your monthly housing payment with a fixed-rate mortgage
Privacy
Having a space that’s your own
Tax Benefits
Certain tax deductions are possible if you itemize on your federal tax return
We Make Relocating Easy
Coldwell Banker West is a premier member of the Anywhere Leads Network, connecting clients with top real estate brokers across the nation. Whether you’re buying or selling a home locally or in another state, we are your one-stop resource for all your real estate needs.
About Our Broker Network
The Anywhere Leads Network is a high-performance nationwide network of over 500 brokers, recognized for exceptional customer service. With market-leading expertise and ongoing education, Anywhere Leads Network agents help clients achieve their real estate goals.
Services We Provide
• Leaving San Diego or Selling Outside the Area? If you’re moving, purchasing a second home, or selling a home outside of San Diego, we’ll connect you with a top network agent who will provide market insights and guide you through the process in your new location.
• Selling a home or know someone who is? We assist clients relocating to San Diego who may be interested in the property.
We have the resources to connect you with a trusted network broker. Let your Coldwell Banker West agent know how our Director of Relocation and Referrals can assist you!
THE POWER OF Being an approved Buyer
being an APPROVED BUYER CAN LIFT YOU ABOVE THE REST
Approved Buyer Program By Point Mortgage’s Point Direct
Point Mortgage’s Point Direct program gives all Coldwell Banker West clients the opportunity to participate in a no-nonsense, high quality mortgage experience that not only saves time but can save you tens of thousands in interest over the life of the loan.
Be An Approved Buyer
Being pre-approved means you have applied for a mortgage and you meet basic qualification standards. Being an approved buyer means more. It means you have met all lender requirements and have been fully underwritten. All that is needed is your new property. Close in as little as 8 days. You may not need to close this quick, but being an approved buyer may put your offer high above many other offers.
Ask your Coldwell Banker West agent about Point Direct today, or apply here:
PURCHASING PROCESS
YOUR PARTNER IN THE PROCESS
When you choose me to represent you, you’II have someone by your side every step of the way, giving you the insights and information you need to have confidence in your decision.
I will:
• Meet with you to discuss your needs and goals, and to plan your property search
• Help you get approved and establish your budget
• Show you properties that meet your criteria
• Keep you informed of new properties that come on the market
• Work with you until you find the right home
• Help you determine your offer
• Negotiate the offer and contract in your best interests
• Facilitate the home inspection and resolution process
• Prepare you for closing and the associated costs
• Keep you updated on the progress of your transaction every step of the way
My Website
The next stop on your home search? My website. Not only is it an easy way to check out all the available properties in your preferred area, it’s also another way for me to get to know the types of properties that you like. Simply register on the site, and I will receive updates about your activity.
And thanks to its responsive design, you can do it all from your mobile device, tablet or desktop!
Making an Offer
There are many factors that influence the market value of a home. I will give you the insight and information you need to make an offer you’re comfortable with. Some of the factors to consider include:
• How long the home has been on the market
• If the price has been reduced
• How much the home is worth — I will provide a comparable market analysis (CMA) showing the list and sale prices for similar homes in your area
• If there are multiple offers
• Other items that might be included in the sale (furniture, hot tub, etc.)
• The “list to sale price ratio,” an indication of how competitive the market is for homes in this area
• Why the seller is selling
• Whether the seller is offering an assumable loan or financing
Once the offer is written, I will present it to the seller’s agent. At that point the seller can accept your offer, reject it or counter it to start the negotiation process. I will work with you to plan a strategy to ensure the most advantageous terms and acceptable pricing for you and your budget.
Closing on your home
Once your offer has been accepted, the closing process begins. Here are some of the typical steps involved.
Home inspection — Most property sales are contingent on the results of a home inspection, which is paid for by the buyer. The inspection typically occurs within 10 days of offer acceptance, and includes a review of the home’s exterior elements like the roof, siding, trim and windows, as well as kitchen and bathroom fixtures and appliances, and major systems like heating and cooling, plumbing and electrical.
If defects are discovered during the inspection, you may exercise the remedy described in your offer or negotiate with the seller to determine what repairs will be made.
Title search — This is a historical review of all legal documents relating to ownership of the property to ensure that there are no claims against the title of the property. It is also recommended that you purchase title insurance in case the records contain errors or there are mistakes in the review process.
Appraisal — As a standard part of the mortgage process, your lender will order an appraisal report to ensure that the loan will be guaranteed by the home’s value.
Final walk-through — If it’s requested in the contract, you’ll be given the chance to look at the home to make sure it’s in the same condition as when you signed the sales agreement.
Closing costs — In addition to your deposit and down payment, there are a variety of other costs involved in closing including:
• Loan origination fees, appraisals and reports
• Surveys and inspections
• Mortgage insurance
• Hazard insurance
• Taxes
• Assessments
• Title insurance, notary and escrow fees
• Recording fees and stamps
FULL-SERVICE SUPPORT
From Start to Finish
Coldwell Banker West is your partner in all aspects of the home-buying process. Our affiliations with primary service providers ensure that you receive complete assistance from beginning to end, giving you one-stop-shop convenience.
MORTGAGE SERVICES — Our preferred lender provides mortgages and features incredibly low rates, fantastic customer service and a fast, simple process. Plus, with their Approved Buyer Program you’ll boost your offer high above others.
WARRANTY SERVICES — A home warranty provides an extra measure of security that makes you feel more comfortable and confident in the purchase of your home.
INSURANCE SERVICES — We can connect you with agencies that offer competitive rates on homeowners, condominium, renters, automobile, second home, vacant home and umbrella coverage.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES — Highly skilled Coldwell Banker Commercial® professionals offer a full spectrum of office, industrial, land, retail, multi-family and hospitality services.
TITLE SERVICES — Title issues will be researched and resolved before the closing to help ensure your transaction closes smoothly and on time.
BUYER SERVICES PLEDGE
Buyer(s):
Buyer(s) Address:
Coldwell Banker West is committed to providing the following services to help you purchase a property:
BUYER COUNSELING SESSION
We will offer you the opportunity to discuss your needs and goals, and to plan the search for your property.
HOMEBUYER GUIDEBOOK
If requested, we will provide you with a copy of the Homebuyer Guide and explain how you can use it as a road map through the home-buying process.
BUYER REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT
We will explain to you the representation agreement and the special services and benefits it offers.
BUYER AGENCY INFORMATION
We will discuss agency alternatives for you and the sellers. We will also provide you with an Agency Disclosure.
FINANCING/BUYER APPROVAL
We will offer to arrange a buyer approval appointment with our mortgage partner to assure the seller of your ability to close. A full buyer approval is a step above a pre-approval and will strengthen your position in a competitive situation.
PROPERTY SHOWING
We will show you properties that meet the criteria you have selected.
PROPERTY EVALUATION
We will discuss the positive and negative features of a property that may affect its value and future resale.
OUR PLEDGE TO YOU
OFFER PREPARATION
We will prepare a written offer on the property you choose to purchase, with terms approved by you.
OFFER PRESENTATION AND NEGOTIATION
We will present your offer to the seller or their designated representative and guide you through the entire negotiation process.
NEGOTIATION STRATEGY
If requested, we will prepare a Comparable Market Analysis for you. This may assist you in structuring your offer to purchase.
REVIEW OF WRITTEN SELLER DISCLOSURE
We will review with you the seller’s written disclosure statement to enable you to determine whether the property meets your requirements.
BUILDING INSPECTIONS
We recommend that you obtain a building inspection from a qualified professional and will provide companies for you to interview. You may also search online to find the company you wish to hire.
PROPERTY DISCLOSURES
We will review with you all inspection reports and other documents pertaining to the condition of the property and disclose all material defects of the property that are known to us.
BUILDING INSPECTION REMEDIES
If applicable, we will work with you to request the seller to remedy the items you specify after your review of the building inspection reports as your Offer to Purchase specifies.
HOME WARRANTY
We will explain to you the option of a home warranty plan to reduce your risk of repair after purchasing a property.
ESTIMATE OF FUNDS REQUIRED
When requested, our mortgage partner will provide you with a preliminary estimate of closing costs and down payment requirement anticipated in the transaction.
WALK-THROUGH
We will accompany you, if requested, on a walk-through of the property (if one is provided for in the sales contract) before closing, and we will assist you in dealing with any problems discovered during the walk-through.
CLOSING THE SALE
We will monitor and inform you of the progress of the purchase agreement, including the satisfaction of all contingencies and conditions during the entire transaction.
AFTER-SALE SERVICE
We will contact you after the closing to follow up on remaining details or service needs.
If you are not satisfied with our service to you at any time, we will make it right. Simply contact our main office at (619) 737-2126 and we will connect you with an office manager who will help you. Coldwell Banker West is one of the largest brokerages in the greater San Diego County market, which means we have vast resources and options available to overcome any obstacles. Give us the opportunity to address your concerns and you will be satisfied! Thank you very much for becoming one of our valued clients and welcome to the Coldwell Banker West Family.
Agent: Manager:
Getting Started
Your home-buying needs are one of a kind. Using the unmatched resources of the Coldwell Banker ® brand, I will develop a custom plan to:
• Provide you with proven, powerful and personal service
• Help you find the right home and negotiate the best possible price and terms for it
• Close the sale in a smooth, timely manner
We are committed to your complete satisfaction, and will represent your interests with the utmost care, honesty, integrity and discretion. Let’s get started!