HOME BUYER’S GUIDE SERENO
OUR STORY
A HOME IS MORE THAN finding a place to live
A home is everything. A home is where lives are imagined, shaped, and defined. A home is an unmade bed, bread crumbs on the coffee table, and the scent of flowers on the mantle. A home is Sunday mornings or the late-for-work rush. A home is a new beginning or an old friend who asks no questions. It’s where we gather, celebrate, and mourn. A home is what’s happened, what could have been, and everything still possible. A home is everything and that is what we work for. We are the curators of your dreams and visions of your future. We are your partners in the home buying journey. If this is your first step in homeownership or the forever home you have worked for, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service, support, and experience. When you work with a Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno agent, you work with the entire company. From our Co-Founders, fellow agents, and amazing support staff, we are committed to defining the residential real estate experience for you and others. We listen. We collaborate. We strive. We achieve. This is our story.
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OUR STORY
WE WILL SERVE AS your trusted guide
Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno is honored to be the largest locally owned and operated independent real estate company in Northern California.
We’ve achieved this by having a clear vision from the start. Our founders embraced a real estate model that valued relationships and not transactions. People matter, and the relationships we form and honor are what define us. This belief is at the core of everything we do. It is what motivates us in our representation and duty to you. Relationships also create community. And nothing is more important than understanding the different nuances of each community’s culture. Since our founding, we have placed a priority on hyperlocal focus in the communities we serve. In addition, we are committed to good citizenship through the way we live, work, and contribute to the markets we support. This commitment creates a unique level of understanding and provides a competitive advantage that we leverage to the benefit of each of our clients. Alongside the desirability of our communities, we understand each market’s individual conditions of inventory, demand, market expectations, and practice requirements to ensure that our clients have the best and most insightful representation.
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OUR STORY
OUR TIMELINE a sequence of extraordinary events From our two founders’ first meeting to where our organization is today, it’s been an exceptional journey. And we know there is more good to come.
2006
2008
2009
2012
Chris and Ryan opened Sereno Group in downtown Los Gatos with 27 founding agents, grounded in local ownership, professionalism, and being a profitable company with a soul that focuses on community stewardship.
Ranked in the top five brokerages nationally for highest per-agent sales volume by RealTrends.
Recognized as the Bay Area’s #1 Top Workplace (Small Company category) and have remained on the list for over a decade.
Established Sereno 1% For Good Charitable Foundation in its Santa Cruz office.
2021
2022
2023
2026
Sereno 1% For Good Charitable Foundation achieved $5 million total in funds raised, giving to over 400 local charities selected by its agents.
Aligned with the Christie’s International Real Estate brand and network to extend local expertise and leadership with global reach and connections across more than 50 countries.
Expanded significantly with the addition of its first office in the heart of San Francisco and St. Helena, serving San Francisco, Marin County, and the Wine Country region of Napa and Sonoma counties.
Celebrated 20 wonderful years of serving Northern California, with over 650 agents, 19 offices, and $7.1 million in giving to over 600 nonprofits through its Sereno 1% For Good Charitable Foundation.
2024 HOME BUYER’S GUIDE
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OUR STORY
Our Journey LO C A L R O O T S , W O R L D W I D E C O N N E C T I O N S Since 2006, we have grown to be the largest locally owned and operated independent brokerage in Northern California with over $6.5 billion in 2025 annual sales volume and a strong presence throughout San Francisco, Peninsula, Silicon Valley, South County, East Bay, Santa Cruz, Marin, Wine Country, Tahoe, Incline Village, Sierra Foothills, and the Central Coast. We grow, not for the sole sake of getting bigger, but to extend our reach in making the most positive impact possible for our clients and communities.
$6.5B
19
2025 SALES VOLUME
OFFICES THROUGHOUT NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
20
650+
YEARS OF PROFITABLE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
RE AL ESTATE AGENTS
SERENO
Love in Our Communities A C U LT U R E O F G I V I N G B A C K Homeownership is a decision to invest in a place you love. We believe a real estate company should do the same. Since 2012, we have been giving back to the places where we live and love through our Sereno 1% For Good Charitable Foundation, allowing us to invest in our local nonprofit partners who work to create positive change in our communities. Giving back is in our DNA. Our culture was built on social and community responsibility, and we are proud of both our financial donations and grassroots volunteerism. By working with us, the sale of your home becomes part of this continuous circle of giving.
600+
14
ORGANIZATIONS
YE ARS
750+
$7.1M
GRANTS PROVIDED
IN GIVING
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OUR STORY
FINANCING YOUR HOME
HOME LOAN FLOW
1
PREPARE TO BUY
Loan Application + Supporting Documentation Credit Report Pre-Approval Issued Loan Options Presented
HOME SEARCH
2
ESCROW
3
Identify and Visit Suitable Properties
Conditional Approval from Lender
Offer Accepted
Final Approval Given
Loan Submission Sent to Lender
Loan Documents Sent from Lender
Underwriting Process Begins
Loan Documents Recorded Purchase Completed
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F I N A N CI N G YOU R H O M E
IMPORTANCE OF PRE-APPROVAL an essential first step In today’s home buying environment, a mortgage pre-approval is essential. Not only does it show you what you can afford, but it also amplifies your buying power and simplifies your home search.
Determine your price range Pre-approval will determine your purchasing power. Your lender can share the types of financing available and what you qualify for with each type.
Understand your monthly payments Before landing on a price range, it’s important for you to ensure you will be comfortable with your monthly payment, which includes principal, taxes, interest, insurance, and possibly mortgage insurance, if applicable.
Pre-approval makes you a “cash competitive” buyer When considering offers, sellers have a vested interest in how their potential buyer intends to purchase their home. Pre-approval positions you as serious, willing, and able to complete the deal. If there are multiple offers, a buyer must put themselves in the best possible light in order to have their offer shine through. Pre-approval is the proactive way to do this.
THINGS TO AVOID during the loan process We recommend you make every effort to avoid these actions at the risk of slowing down or compromising the process of financing your new home.
Buy or lease a new automobile This is a good time to be mindful of anything that may affect your debt-to-income ratio. New payments, particularly large ones, may detrimentally impact your ability to obtain a loan.
Run a credit report on yourself (or your spouse, if applicable) All inquiries must be explained in writing, so it is advisable to avoid doing at this time.
Consolidate your bills prior to meeting with your lender Speak to your lender first about any financial maneuvering to avoid delaying your loan approval.
Make major purchases, such as appliances or furniture Purchasing anything at this time can potentially increase your debt and reduce your chance for an optimal loan.
Move around your financial assets During this process, everything on your financial dashboard will be examined carefully. You must disclose and document everything you do, so it is highly recommended that you keep your accounts free and clear of complications.
Pack or ship important loan documents We recommend that you keep a file on hand with important documents like W-2 forms, tax returns, divorce decrees, and any other supporting information. It is wise to be prepared with these items right up to the close of escrow.
Change employment The probationary period that often comes with new employment can jeopardize your ability to qualify for a loan.
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LOAN REVIEW components explained Credit Your credit score is the mathematical calculation of your overall credit rating. This is the moment when a good payment history comes front and center, and any derogatory credit notations need to be explained with a very good reason. Any outstanding collection accounts, judgments, or liens will be paid through escrow.
Job Stability Consistency is a beautiful thing when applying for a loan. The same job with the same company for a long time is ideal.
Income and Ratios Your gross monthly income, before taxes, is computed. Bonuses, overtime, part-time, or self-employment income are averaged over the last two years. Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance (PITI) on the loan are divided by the gross monthly income to get the “top” ratio. Ideally, ratios are below 33% for the top ratio and below 38% for the bottom ratio, for an 80% Loan-to-Value (LTV) loan. These can be lower for 90%, 95%, or 97% LTV loans.
Property The subject property is considered security for the loan. To ensure sufficient collateral, the lender will require proof in the form of an appraisal from a Certified Appraiser. An underwriter reviews the appraisal for verification of marketability, condition, and value. The lender also requires a title report and insurance on the property to protect both you and them.
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F I N A N CI N G YOU R H O M E
HOME BUYING PROCESS
O U R STO RY
THOUGHTFUL CONSIDERATIONS before you begin your search Your skilled and knowledgeable agent will be able to guide and support you throughout your home buying journey, but there are certain questions that only you can answer. We recommend dedicating time to consider the following questions:
What is your ideal price range? What type of property suits you and your needs best: single-family home, condo, townhome?
Do you have pets that require consideration? Is proximity to work or school a factor?
Do you have preferred neighborhoods?
Will you need easy access to public transportation or an airport?
Are there certain amenities that are important to you? (e.g., if you have children.)
What are your non-negotiable must-haves? (e.g., pool, minimum of three bathrooms, large yard.)
FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME with your agent’s support At this stage, you are ready to begin your home search! Here is what you can look forward to at this stage of the process:
Reviewing Listings
Comparing Properties
Your agent will present you with available listings. At this time, you will also discuss factors outside the price, including property taxes and the amount of time the property has been on the market.
If you have feedback after seeing it, share this with your agent, as it will allow them to alter the parameters of your search, if applicable.
Finding Your Home Seeing Properties Your agent will work closely with you to schedule showings and accompany you to the appointments.
In the following pages, we’ll share more important information about what occurs once you’ve found a property that you are interested in making an offer on.
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HOME BUYING PROCESS
DISCLOSURES: WHAT THEY MEAN and why they matter If you are serious about a particular property, your agent can request a disclosure package from the listing agent. These disclosures are your opportunity to review general information regarding the property prior to writing an offer. Both the seller and listing agent are required to disclose all material facts they know about the property so you are aware of anything that might affect your decision to buy the home.
GENERAL DISCLOSURES Preliminary Title Report
Natural Hazard Zone Disclosure
Provided by the title company,
This report details how the property
this report shows ownership of the
might be affected by natural hazards
parcel, as well as any liens and encumbrances
like an earthquake, wildfire, tsunami,
thereon which will not be covered under a
or flood based on its specific location.
subsequent title insurance policy.
Property Inspection Report
Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)
This report examines the overall
A questionnaire completed by the
functionality and condition of the home,
seller about the property.
including appliances, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems. There may also be
Seller Property Questionnaire
additional inspection reports that might
This is a more comprehensive
include a roof inspection or pool inspection.
questionnaire completed by the seller
Pest Inspection Report This report examines structural damage
that will give an overview of major systems of the property and any material facts affecting the property.
due to termites, similar wood-destroying pests, as well as water damage and dry rot.
Agent’s Visual Inspection Disclosure (AVID) A visual inspection of the property required for both listing and selling agents to complete.
HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION (HOA) PROPERTIES Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) HOA Meeting Minutes for Last 12 Months
Condominium Certification Form House Rules and Miscellaneous Communication
HOA Budget and Budget Reserve Study
2024 H HO OM M EE BB U U YY EE RR ’’ SS G GU U II D D EE || H F IONMA EN C B IUNYGI NYGO P U RR OHCOEM SS E
THE OFFER PROCESS and what it entails Here are some common terms that are used throughout the offer stage. Becoming acquainted with them will be helpful as you enter the offer phase on the home buying journey.
What constitutes a “good” offer? The term “good” depends on many factors, including market conditions, the neighborhood, your needs, the seller’s needs, and the list price. It is important to consider how the market is responding to the list price and adjust accordingly. Your agent will provide you with the best information to help you make an informed decision.
What does “as is” mean? Selling a property “as is” means that the property is being sold in its present condition. However, the buyer does have the right to inspect the property, and the seller is legally obligated to disclose any and all known material defects. If an offer contains contingencies, and defects are found that were not previously disclosed, the buyer has the right to cancel the contract, or negotiate specific repairs or cash in lieu of repairs. The California Association of REALTORS® contract is an “as is” contract by default, whereas the Peninsula Regional Data Service (PRDS) purchase contract leaves it open to negotiation. Your agent will share more valuable information about how these two contracts differ.
How long before I know if a seller has accepted my offer? The time frame for a response from a seller will be a part of the offer. It is customary to allow at least 24 hours, and as long as 72 hours for a response.
In a multiple-offer situation, how do I increase the chances of my offer being accepted? It is important to understand the motivation and goals of the seller. Every offer is unique and offers different benefits depending on how price and terms are structured. Your agent can help determine how to position your offer in a way that will appeal to the seller’s motivations and/or expectations.
What is a counter-offer? A seller has four choices when responding to purchase offers:
ACCEPT
as written. The seller is “in contract” to sell the property.
REJECT
the offer.
COUNTER
an offer with a revised purchase price, length of escrow, contingency period, or other terms. Once the seller receives the counter back from a buyer, they can accept, reject, or counter the offer. This can go on until both parties come to an agreement.
OFFER
a back-up position behind an accepted offer.
What is a Seller Multiple Counter-Offer? In a multiple-offer situation, the seller has the option to simultaneously counter more than one offer for better price/terms with a single form, Seller Multiple Counter-Offer (SMCO), reserving the right to proceed with only one of the agreements that present the best terms.
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HOME BUYING PROCESS
THE ART AND SCIENCE of negotiating There’s an old saying that states “Everything is negotiable.” This is particularly true in real estate, and why having an agent acting on your behalf when it comes time to negotiate the deal is so important. Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno agents are well versed in the art of negotiation, from doing necessary research to unearth the best strategy, exploring common objectives before exploring differences, and most importantly, defining your ideal outcome and the steps it will take to move both parties toward this outcome. Deals can often fall apart over the smallest and seemingly inconsequential details. Having the negotiation intelligence of an experienced agent can be an essential element to preventing a deal from breaking down. Your agent will take many elements into account as part of the negotiation strategy: What personalities are involved? Who is the decision maker? What are the non-negotiable points? In which areas might concessions be possible? What are the true costs of repairs, and can we get estimates quickly
using agent networks to save time in negotiations? What would be a win-win situation for both sides? What has happened so far that we can use to our advantage?
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HOME BUYING PROCESS
ESCROW EXPLAINED
O U R STO RY
THE ROLE ESCROW PLAYS when buying a home Escrow broadly refers to a third party that holds money on behalf of two parties in a transaction, and as it pertains to real estate, escrow is the time period between your offer being accepted and closing. Escrow instructions are created, signed, and delivered to the escrow officer when the principals to a transaction (the buyer, the seller, the lender, and agents) open escrow. The escrow officer is charged with processing the escrow in accordance with the instructions and ensuring all necessary documents are completed and signed. Once this is achieved, the escrow will be closed. An escrow officer cannot take instructions from one party in the transaction. All parties must be in agreement.
Typical duties:
Ensuring instructions laid out by the principals and parties to the transaction are executed in a timely manner.
Paying any bills specified in the instructions.
Responding to requests from parties to the transaction.
Handling any funds or documents as directed in the instructions.
Closing escrow ONLY when all the terms have been satisfied.
Providing final accounting details with the closing or settlement statement.
Think of escrow as a neutral zone. Funds are held by the escrow company so that both parties have the time to comply with the terms of the contract, and the transfer of the title can be prepared. Several things need to be accomplished during a typical escrow:
A refundable deposit (usually 3% of the purchase price) is placed and held by the escrow company. Your lender prepares loan documents and collects necessary information for approval. Review and sign disclosures. Any inspections mandated in the offer are performed. Property appraisal completed by the lender. All loan and title documents are signed by you when complete. Due diligence is performed by you. Remove contingencies to meet deadlines. Final walk-through to make certain that the property is in the same condition as it was when the buyer signed the contract. Escrow closes and the property transfers when all conditions have been satisfied.
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ESCROW EXPLAINED
REDEFINING LUXURY
In addition to our local roots and commitment to serving, connecting, growing, and protecting the communities we operate in, we are proud to be partnered with Christie’s International Real Estate — the global authority in luxury real estate. This exclusive, invitation-only network includes the world’s premier, independent luxury real estate brokerages and professionals, and allows us to extend our mission and values globally. This network of independent brokerages spans across 50 countries and territories on six continents. Through a shared focus on luxury real estate, strong local ownership and knowledge, and a dynamic affiliate network, we are able to provide personalized exclusive marketing opportunities and tailored services to our clients to reach exceptional results.
A Network Like No Other
50+
518
COUNTRIES
BROKERAGE OFFICES
11K
70M
AGENTS
SOCIAL REACH
INTERNATIONAL PRINT ADVERTISING strategic placement in world-leading publications Christie’s International Real Estate has access to strategic placement in affluent publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Robb Report, and Financial Times.
MA SE K
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Christie’s International Real Estate Magazine With editorial content, alongside a collection of the world’s finest properties, this industry-leading publication highlights the world of luxury. The magazine is distributed to clients of Christie’s and Christie’s International Real Estate, creating more visibility for your property among readers who are purchasers of luxury goods, collectors of fine art, and investors in multimillion dollar properties.
Digital Advertising
Property
spotligh t: Los An
geles
Christie’s International Real Estate leverages digital ad platforms to target high-net-worth individuals and luxury lifestyle connoisseurs through leading real estate, business, and luxury media channels, along with the Google Display Network.
Social Media Christie’s International Real Estate engages with over one million users per month in 150 different countries on its social media channels.
Luxury Defined Blog Notable listings from our global luxury network are regularly featured on the Luxury Defined blog, with content delivered via email to more than 37,000 subscribers.
Public Relations A global PR strategy results in high-end editorial coverage for Christie’s International Real Estate properties. Homes have been featured in over 150 digital and print outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Architectural Digest, and Mansion Global.
The Website ChristiesRealEstate.com, alongside affiliate brokerage websites, gives clients’ properties global digital exposure, with the added benefit of syndication to major publications, including Financial Times, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Mansion Global. Property descriptions are also translated into 19 languages and reach an audience of one million users through sophisticated search engine marketing and inbound campaigns. High-definition videos and captivating content greet qualified visitors from across the globe.
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REDEFINING LUXURY
BEYOND REAL ESTATE connecting home, art, and culture Since 1766, Christie’s world-renowned auctions and private sales have captivated a global audience of luxury collectors and aficionados. Today, the institution has a physical presence in 50 countries and continues to achieve world-record prices for a single collection sale and a work by a living artist. Christie’s International Real Estate maintains a close partnership with Christie’s, creating unique marketing opportunities and synergies between the world of luxury goods and high-end real estate. White-glove service is offered to clients to facilitate referrals between our global property network and the auction house. A dedicated liaison will also assist real estate clients who wish to sell art and luxury goods.
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REDEFINING LUXURY
AFTER THE CLOSE
WE KEEP OUR RELATIONSHIPS long after the closing At Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno, we believe our services don’t end with the close of escrow. It is our great privilege to assist in the search and purchase of the right home, and we hope to continue being of service as you settle in and become a part of a new community. As you settle into your new home, please know that we are here to support you with the seemingly endless list of projects that go hand in hand with a new home. Your agent is your best resource and local point of contact to ensure all your needs are met so your home becomes your oasis.
Home Improvement If you find yourself in need of trusted partners for work on your new home, your agent can be of service in sharing their network with you for projects that may require contractors, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, landscaping, interior design, solar energy resources, and more.
Refinancing In the months and years ahead, keep an eye on interest rates. If they go down, you may be able to save money refinancing. Please reach out to your Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno agent if you have questions about this process.
Purchase of Additional Properties If you have questions about investment properties, inside or outside of the area, your agent will be an invaluable resource in providing their expertise so you are equipped to make a sound decision.
Supporting Friends or Family Members If you know of someone who is looking for a knowledgeable, experienced agent, please share your agent’s contact information. It would be a privilege to provide the same level of service and expertise to them as we did for you in the purchase of your new home.
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AFTER THE CLOSE
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