Ted Mendoza Realtor Exp Realty of California, Inc.

09/26/2026

We’ve spent decades helping people buy and sell homes throughout Santa Cruz County, but our connection to this community goes well beyond real estate.

We know the neighborhoods. We know the people. We’ve built relationships with local contractors, inspectors, lenders, title professionals and so many others who help keep a transaction moving.

And after all these years, we still genuinely enjoy helping someone make a move here.

Whether you’ve lived in Santa Cruz County for decades or you’re just beginning to think about calling it home, we’d love to be a resource for you.

📲 Ted Mendoza: 831-419-3124
📲 Lisa Salinero: 831-566-2907

09/26/2026

09/26/2026

A family once trusted us to prepare and sell a property while they were living more than 1,000 miles away.

That meant coordinating contractors.

Checking on progress.

Helping with decisions.

Keeping everything moving.

By the time the home hit the market, it was ready—and it sold in just three days for well over the asking price.

Selling a home is about a lot more than putting up a sign. It's about people and what we can do to help them in the process.

If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell, reach out to us and let's have a conversation!

📲 Ted Mendoza: 831-419-3124
📲 Lisa Salinero: 831-566-2907

09/25/2026

One of the regrets sellers make is spending too much on upgrades they may never recover. Before listing, focus on repairs that improve a buyer's first impression: fix obvious maintenance issues, freshen up paint, improve curb appeal, deep clean, and declutter. Expensive remodels often don't return their full cost, especially if the finishes don't match what buyers want. The goal isn't to create a brand-new home; it's to present a well-maintained one that appeals to the widest range of buyers. Before investing thousands of dollars, let's walk through your home together. I can help you identify which improvements are worth making and which ones you can confidently skip.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LisaSalineroandTedMendoza/2026/09/25/What-Should-I-Fix-Before-Listing-My-Home

Helping clients buy and sell since 1969! Serving Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County.
(831) 419-3124 TedMendoza [email protected]

09/24/2026

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is assuming every improvement requires a full‑scale remodel.Simple smart home features like programmable thermostats, video doorbells, smart locks, security cameras, and energy-efficient lighting can modernize your home and improve everyday living. Many buyers appreciate these features because they add convenience, security, and potential energy savings without a huge investment. If you're considering upgrades before selling, or simply want to increase your home's functionality, focus on improvements that offer broad appeal rather than expensive gadgets with limited value. Wondering which upgrades make the most sense for your home and your market? I'd be happy to help you prioritize projects that provide the greatest benefit today and the best return when it's time to sell.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LisaSalineroandTedMendoza/2026/09/24/What-Smart-Home-Upgrades-Are-Worth-It

Helping clients buy and sell since 1969! Serving Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County.
(831) 419-3124 TedMendoza [email protected]

09/23/2026

Most people think the biggest tax benefits of homeownership are deducting mortgage interest and property taxes, but with nearly 90% of taxpayers now taking the standard deduction, some of the most powerful advantages may actually come later through capital gains exclusions when selling and stepped-up basis rules when property is inherited. Homeownership can be about much more than monthly payments; it can also play an important role in long-term wealth building and family planning.

Helping clients buy and sell since 1969! Serving Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County.
(831) 419-3124 TedMendoza [email protected]

While many homeowners focus on mortgage interest deductions, two of the most valuable and overlooked tax benefits may actually be the capital gains exclusion and stepped-up basis for inherited property.

09/22/2026

One of the biggest mistakes I see sellers make is assuming buyers will overlook little things. In reality, small details often shape a buyer's first impression and influence how they perceive the home's overall value. The good news is that many of the most effective improvements are simple and affordable. If you're thinking about selling, I'd be happy to recommend which updates are worth doing and which ones you can skip, so you can make the best first impression possible. Reach out anytime for a no-obligation consultation.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LisaSalineroandTedMendoza/2026/09/22/Small-Improvements-Can-Create-Big-Perception-Shifts-with-Buyers

09/21/2026

Life changes, but our homes don't always change with us. Maybe you need more space or less. Maybe the stairs are becoming a challenge, the commute is wearing you down, or your lifestyle has shifted in ways your home no longer supports. You don't have to feel "stuck"; exploring your options doesn't mean you're committing to a move. It simply gives you clarity.If you're starting to feel like your current home no longer fits your life, reach out. I can walk you through your choices, estimate your equity, and help you plan your next step, whether that's now or years from now.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/LisaSalineroandTedMendoza/2026/09/21/How-much-longer-are-you-willing-to-stay

Helping clients buy and sell since 1969! Serving Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County.
(831) 419-3124 TedMendoza [email protected]

09/21/2026

Not every homeowner who calls us knows exactly what they want to do.

Sometimes they’re considering selling but aren’t sure about the timing. Sometimes they’re wondering what their home might be worth. Sometimes a change in life has them thinking about a move they hadn’t planned on.

Those conversations don’t need to start with a decision.

They can start with questions.

We’re always happy to sit down, listen to what’s going on, answer what we can, and help you understand the options in front of you.

And if the answer is that now isn’t the right time to sell, that’s okay too.

When the time is right, you’ll know a little more about what comes next—and you’ll know who to call.

📲 Ted Mendoza: 831-419-3124
📲 Lisa Salinero: 831-566-2907