The journal
Monthly notes, in plain English.
What I'm seeing in the market, what I'm reading, and what I'd tell a friend.
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May 26, 2026
The Buyer Representation Agreement (BRBC), in plain English
Since August 2024, California buyers and their agents sign a written representation agreement before touring homes. It exists to protect both sides. Here's what it is and what to expect.
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May 26, 2026
Welcome to the journal
A new home for honest notes on Bay Area real estate — what I'm seeing, what I'm reading, and what I'd tell a friend.
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May 23, 2026
The inspection came back bad. Now what?
An inspection during your contingency window turned up a serious issue. This is exactly what the contingency is for. Here's the simple process for cancelling, getting your earnest money back, and moving on.
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May 22, 2026
What happens if you need to cancel after contingencies are released
Once your contingencies are removed in writing, your earnest money deposit is at risk. Cancelling after that point is a real conversation, not a checkbox. Here's what to expect and how to think about it.
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May 19, 2026
What a clean disclosure package actually looks like
Most first-time buyers in California have never seen a disclosure package before they're handed a hundred and seventy pages and asked to make a million-dollar decision. Here's what's in one, what to read carefully, and what 'clean' actually means.
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May 12, 2026
The real math on waiving contingencies
Bay Area buyers regularly waive inspection, loan, and appraisal contingencies to win competitive offers. Here's what each one actually protects you from, and what you're actually betting when you drop it.
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