Steve Hise and Tricia Garcia help you get pre-approved, find the right home, negotiate a strong offer, and get through inspections and escrow without surprises.
You pick the homes you like in Simi Valley, Ventura County, or Los Angeles County. We'll do the rest: setting up a search that catches new listings fast, touring homes with you, negotiating hard, and handling the paperwork so nothing slips through the cracks. We give you our time, and we don't rush your decisions.
Get pre-approved before you shop, so you know what you can afford and what your payment will be.
We narrow down the areas that fit what you want, then find homes that match, including new listings the moment they hit.
We write and negotiate your offer and explain every contingency and deadline.
We walk you through the inspection report, help you decide what to ask the seller for, and see escrow through to the keys.
A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. A pre-approval is the real thing: the lender has checked your income, debts, assets, and credit, so you know your maximum loan amount. Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously because they know you can close. Look for a lender who is organized, answers your questions clearly, and explains rates and costs in writing. If you're a first-time buyer, ask about down payment assistance in Ventura County.
Before you fall for a house, make sure the area works for your day to day. Think about:
Our neighborhood guides cover the homes, HOAs, and what to know in each area. Start with the Simi Valley neighborhoods guide, or jump to the Texas Tract, Wood Ranch, Big Sky, The Woodlands, or North Hills West.
Homes sell fast and multiple offers are common. Be pre-approved and clear on your must-haves.
More homes to choose from and room to negotiate toward a price that's fair for both sides.
Homes sit longer and you have leverage, but don't let a deal talk you into the wrong house.
A professional inspection gives you an expert opinion, in writing, on the real condition of the home. Go to the inspection yourself; you'll learn more in person than from the report alone. Then we'll help you sort the report into what matters: structural and system issues, big-ticket repairs, and easy fixes, and which requests are worth making so the seller stays on board. See buyer contingencies in California.
Tell us a bit about what you're looking for, and we'll reach out to help you get started.
Schedule a call with Steve and Tricia
Get pre-approved with a lender first so you know your budget, then talk with us about the areas and type of home you want. We'll set up a search and start touring.
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. Pre-approval means the lender has checked your income, debts, assets, and credit, which makes your offer stronger.
Yes. A professional inspection shows the real condition of the home before you're committed, and it helps you decide what to ask the seller to fix or credit.
There are programs for eligible buyers. See our guide to down payment assistance in Ventura County, and ask your lender which ones you qualify for.
Often, yes. We can line up both closings or plan a buy-first approach, depending on your finances. We plan both moves together so you're not stuck in between.
Steve Hise and Tricia Garcia of Real Estate Toolbox at eXp Realty help buyers across Simi Valley, Ventura County, and Los Angeles County. Call or text 805-424-6226 or schedule at realestatetoolbox.com/schedule.
Buying your first home? Start with our First-Time Buyer page: short videos, plain-English guides, and your first four steps.