MARISSA TORRES, REALTOR®

Why Buying the Right Home in San Bruno Is More Like Matchmaking Than a Checklist Exploring housing options with enthusiasm, a couple discusses possibilities with a real estate professional, embodying the modern approach to finding a perfect home without compromise. Buying a home is a lot like dating. There’s the early excitement.The back-to-back “first showings.”The stage where you start to second-guess yourself — and the voice that says, “Maybe I should just settle…” But her

Uncover the Hidden Value of San Bruno: How Neighborhood Nuance, Off-Market Homes & Local Realtor Insight Matter Most A man opens a garden gate to greet visitors, highlighting the welcoming, community-focused atmosphere of San Bruno amidst its connection to a global tech giant. A lot of buyers start with Google. They look up “best neighborhoods in San Bruno” or scroll through listings online. They think they know what to expect. But here’s the truth: San Bruno doesn’t reveal i

Why Smart Strategy Wins in San Bruno: How One Winning Offer Didn’t Need to Be the Highest A happy couple shakes hands with a real estate agent, celebrating the successful offer on their new dream home. We were up against multiple offers.The home had just hit the market and was already getting attention.It wasn’t the cheapest option out there — but for my clients, it was the one. And I knew in my gut: we could win it.Not by offering the most money… but by offering something be

When’s the Best Time to Sell Your San Bruno Home? Expert Realtor Timing & Strategy Tips A handshake seals the deal as keys are exchanged, symbolizing a successful property transaction in San Bruno. Let’s get right to it: Everyone wants to “time the market.”No one has a crystal ball. But when it comes to selling a home in San Bruno, the real question isn’t “Is this the right time to sell?” It’s: “Is this the right time for you to sell — and are you doing it the right way?” Bec

Discover Exclusive San Bruno Off-Market Homes Through Trusted Realtor Networks and Pocket Listings Finding Hidden Gems: An insider showcase of strategies for discovering homes before they officially hit the market. If you’re only searching Zillow… You’re only seeing part of the story. Because in San Bruno, some of the best homes never hit the open market . They’re sold quietly. Shared agent-to-agent. Or offered to trusted buyers before a single photo is taken. And that’s wher

Why Real Estate Referrals Matter More Than Marketing in San Bruno You’ve probably heard Realtors ask for referrals with a line like:“The greatest compliment you can give me is a referral.” That’s true. But for me — it’s more than a compliment.It’s how my business is built. Because I don’t work with everyone. I work with people who trust me. People who’ve heard about me through a friend, a neighbor, a colleague, or a past client. People who want something more thoughtful than

Knowing When to Wait: Local Advice on Timing, Strategy, and Selling Smart in San Bruno Timing is Everything: Understanding When to Hold Off on Listing Your Home for Sale. Here’s something you won’t hear most Realtors say: Sometimes, it’s better NOT to list your home. Maybe it’s not the right season. Maybe you’re not emotionally ready. Maybe the market isn't aligned with your goals — or you just need a better plan. Whatever the reason, I’ll say this clearly: I will never encou

Patient guidance, local insights, and honest strategy, here’s what every San Bruno homebuyer should know before starting their search. Meeting with a Consultant: A couple discusses home-buying strategies with a professional in San Bruno, reviewing documents and calculating finances. Buying a home is exciting, and overwhelming. Especially in San Bruno, where inventory moves fast, off-market deals are common, and a lot of what matters doesn’t show up online. So before we even s

Helping San Bruno Buyers and Sellers Make Meaningful Moves with Purpose and Legacy A couple celebrates in their new home, surrounded by moving boxes and sharing a toast, symbolizing the beginning of a legacy beyond just real estate. I’ve walked buyers into homes where they knew — instantly — this is where we’ll build our family story. I’ve helped sellers close the door on a chapter filled with memories, traditions, and love… and pass that space on to someone who’ll honor it.

The importance of understanding property taxes for budgeting and making informed decisions about buying or selling property in the area. Navigating Property Taxes: A Guide for Homeowners in San Mateo County. Navigating the world of property taxes can be daunting, especially for first-time homebuyers and new residents in San Mateo County. Understanding how property taxes work is crucial for budgeting and planning your financial future. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you

Navigating the San Mateo County rental market involves understanding the details of rental agreements for both renters and landlords, as depicted by a contract awaiting signature and a set of keys symbolizing new opportunities. San Mateo County’s rental market is dynamic, influenced by its proximity to Silicon Valley, desirable neighborhoods, and a diverse population. Whether you’re a renter seeking a new home or a landlord looking to attract tenants, understanding this marke

Trends in Demand, Development, and Infrastructure A professional analyzes demand trends and development data on dual monitors in a modern office setting, highlighting advancements in infrastructure and technology. San Mateo County, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, has long been influenced by the booming tech industry. As major tech companies expand and new startups emerge, the real estate market in this region has experienced significant changes. Here’s a look at how t

If you’ve ever dreamed of calling San Francisco home or wondered what it takes to sell a property here, you’re in the right place. The city by the bay is famous for its iconic hills, vibrant neighborhoods, and yes, a real estate market that keeps everyone on their toes. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding the ins and outs of this market can make all the difference. So, let’s dive into some warm, practical insights that will help you navigate San Francisco’s prope

Students actively engage in a classroom, highlighting the impact of top-performing schools in San Mateo County on local property values. When it comes to buying a home, one of the most critical factors for families is the quality of local schools. In San Mateo County, renowned educational institutions significantly impact property values, making the region even more desirable for homebuyers. Here’s a look at some of the best schools in the area and how they influence real est

What You Need to Know About Paying Your Agent Understanding agent fees: A small wooden house rests on a contract, symbolizing the importance of knowing how to properly compensate your real estate agent. If you are like any of my clients, you are probably asking yourself, what will I have to pay my buyers agent? Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. One crucial aspect of the home-buying process is understanding the costs involved, i

Prices of homes in San Mateo County are always high, so what does it mean to be a Luxury Home? A modern luxury home in San Mateo County, showcasing sleek architecture and pristine landscaping amidst a lush, wooded backdrop. San Mateo County, nestled between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, boasts some of the most stunning and luxurious homes in California. Known for its beautiful landscapes, upscale amenities, and proximity to tech hubs, this region attracts affluent buyers

Most people think selling a home means open houses, staging stress, endless showings, and strangers wandering through your space. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if you could sell your home quietly, intentionally, and only to the right buyers, without ever going live on the market? That’s what an off-market sale offers. In a place like San Mateo County, it’s not just possible; it’s often the best path for the right kind of seller. What Is an Off-Market Sale? A

Not every dream home looks like a dream home when you first see it. Sometimes, it’s a small 2-bed house sitting on a big, beautiful lot. Sometimes, the kitchen is 20 years behind, but the bones are strong. Sometimes, the driveway feels narrow, but the street feels just right. For buyers with vision, these properties aren’t turn-offs — they’re invitations. Smart Buyers Think Beyond the Photos In a market like San Bruno, turnkey homes go fast, and they go high. But homes with g

Most homes in San Bruno don’t just sell on Zillow.They sell because a conversation happened . A hunch was right. A door was quietly opened behind the scenes. There’s a kind of unspoken language  in San Bruno real estate, a rhythm, a tone, a way of working that only makes sense once you’re immersed in it. It’s not flashy, and it’s not obvious. But if you know how to listen? You’ll hear everything you need to win. What Do I Mean by “Real Estate Language”? I’m not talking about

If you’re thinking about buying a home in San Mateo County in 2025, one of your first questions is probably: How much home can I actually afford? It’s a smart question, and not always a simple one to answer. Because in the Bay Area, affordability isn’t just about salary or pre-approval numbers. It’s about strategy, market context, and long-term vision. Here’s what I’m seeing right now, and what to consider if you’re planning to buy this year. Median Prices in 2025 (San Mateo