Lance Hulsey - Broker

Lance Hulsey - Broker I help people navigate the complex real estate buying and selling process to make the transaction smooth and effortless.

Broker Associate @ KW Thrive & Broker @ Solaris Property Management
CA DRE #01724888
Founder of Wealth Building Broker As a licensed real estate agent since January 2006 and a Real Estate Broker since 2021, Lance Hulsey serves his real estate clients with the professional and personal engagement they need to achieve their goals. Whether they’re buying, selling, or investing, Lance works with them

to create a realistic path and navigate market challenges while delivering a superior experience from start to finish. A fourth-generation Santa Cruz native, Lance was a professional musician in his early 20s before heading into the property tax consulting family business. Representing many blue-chip Fortune 500 companies, Lance steadily navigated corporate and government intricacies while determining and implementing the most winning strategies for his clients. Lance has always worked in different facets of real estate but was eager to move from the high-pressure corporate arena to the one-on-one transactional kind. He began by working with investors and slowly transitioned into handling all types of deals, a juggling act with which he was familiar and comfortable. Before returning to KW, Lance, a founding member of the successful Kroft Hulsey team and a co-founder of Sol Property Advisors, is dedicated to elevating the real estate industry by providing professional and ethical service to clients and colleagues. With a background as a productivity coach at Keller Williams, Lance draws on the high-level coaching he received to mentor other agents, sharing valuable insights to enhance their business growth, productivity, and success. He holds several industry designations, including Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR®), and Investment Property Specialist (IPS). Lance is also a graduate of Bold, part of the KW Maps program, and has received several other production awards at past brokerages. Lance also previously served as the Chief Financial Officer at Room Real Estate, ranked as the #9 Mega Team in California and #39 nationwide. During his tenure, Lance contributed to Room’s success by offering financial expertise and strategies for business growth. When Lance isn’t selling real estate, you’ll often find him making music solo or collaborating with his musician friends. Lance is also a huge soccer and Formula One racing fan. He is married to his beautiful, German-born wife, Julia, and has two equally beautiful twin daughters, who are both competitive equestrians! Lance is passionate about giving back to his community through his company’s Heroes Housing Assistance program and by collecting food donations on behalf of local organizations. He’s also a member of the Women’s Council of Realtors®, which helps to empower women in real estate.

Which sellers in the Bay Area should actually consider a cash home-buying company? Here’s how to spot when this approach...
06/07/2026

Which sellers in the Bay Area should actually consider a cash home-buying company? Here’s how to spot when this approach makes sense, before you make a move.

Cash buyers can be a strong fit for sellers who want speed and simplicity above all else, especially when time, repairs, or certainty are major factors.

- Sellers facing urgent timelines, like job relocations or major life changes, often benefit from cash offers that close quickly.

- If managing repairs, showings, or prepping a home sounds overwhelming, a cash sale’s as-is option can take that off your plate.

- When avoiding the uncertainty of mortgage financing and last-minute deal collapses is a priority, cash buyers bring peace of mind with fewer contingencies.

- Owners with inherited or trust properties sometimes choose cash sales to streamline probate and settle estates smoothly.

- Families handling aging parents’ homes, or properties that would be costly to update, see value in quick, no-repair offers.

- Sellers with financial stress or those who want to skip commissions and traditional fees may appreciate the upfront convenience of this route.

- Properties with unique conditions or challenges that may turn off traditional buyers often find traction with experienced cash companies.

Cash home-buying companies bring speed and certainty but usually trade off net proceeds compared to open-market listings, so the best option is always the one that matches your timeline, stress level, and financial goals.

If you’re weighing your options in Santa Cruz County, what’s the biggest challenge you’re hoping to solve with your home sale? Let’s talk through which path fits your situation best.

Lance Hulsey, Broker Associate
KW Thrive SC
CA DRE #01724888
www.lancehulseybroker.com
www.wealthbuildingbroker.com

It’s the oldest rule in real estate for a reason. When inventory is tight, buyers often get trapped waiting for a home t...
06/07/2026

It’s the oldest rule in real estate for a reason.

When inventory is tight, buyers often get trapped waiting for a home that checks every single box- perfect street, perfect layout, and perfect finishes. But in highly competitive neighborhoods, waiting for "perfection" usually means missing out on millions in appreciation.

Swapping a turnkey mindset for an equity mindset is how the savviest buyers build generational wealth. You can change everything about a house except where it sits on the map.

Thinking about hunting for a hidden gem with massive upside this summer? Let’s map out a strategy that looks past the surface level. DM me to schedule a private strategy consultation.

Lance Hulsey
Broker Associate Lic. 01724888
[email protected]
(831)295-8509
Keller Williams Thrive

What every Santa Cruz County seller should know: cash buyers and traditional listings bring very different obligations a...
06/06/2026

What every Santa Cruz County seller should know: cash buyers and traditional listings bring very different obligations and tradeoffs.

If you’re comparing these options, here’s how the details stack up for anyone thinking about selling a family home, an estate property, or downsizing in today’s market:

- Cash buyers typically handle homes as-is, so sellers can skip repairs and deep cleaning entirely.

- Traditional listings often require prepping, staging, and showings to attract the best buyers and higher offers.

- Going the cash route delivers fast, certain closings and avoids potential fall-throughs linked to buyer loans.

- Sellers choosing a traditional listing need to plan for a longer sale timeline, but open market exposure can spark stronger bidding and better proceeds.

- With a cash sale, fewer negotiations and contingencies mean less back-and-forth and a simpler overall process.

- Opting for a traditional listing often means weighing upfront effort and time against the potential for a higher bottom line.

- Local cash-buyer platforms and investor groups create options, but sellers should always compare the net outcome of speed and ease versus open-market results.

Sellers in Santa Cruz County get the best results by aligning their choice with personal priorities, whether that’s moving quickly, avoiding stress, or maximizing proceeds.

Thinking about which path makes sense for your goals? Save this list or send it to a friend weighing their options.

Lance Hulsey, Broker Associate
KW Thrive SC
CA DRE #01724888
www.lancehulseybroker.com
www.wealthbuildingbroker.com

Thinking about selling in Santa Cruz County? Here’s how cash offers and traditional listings stack up for speed, conveni...
06/05/2026

Thinking about selling in Santa Cruz County? Here’s how cash offers and traditional listings stack up for speed, convenience, and what you take home at closing:

For sellers who need a fast sale or want to avoid the stress of repairs, a cash home-buying company can deliver certainty and a quick closing with minimal obligations.

If you want to skip showings and move on your own terms, cash buyers often let you set the timeline and walk away without upgrades or cleaning.

Cash sales usually mean less paperwork, fewer contingencies, and no waiting for loan approvals, making them appealing when life demands a straightforward process.

However, selling on the open market can expose your home to motivated buyers, sometimes driving up sale prices and net proceeds, especially if the property is in good shape and market conditions are competitive.

Traditional listings may require repairs or staging up front, but the extra effort can pay off with more interest from buyers and potentially higher offers.

Family trusts, downsizers, and anyone not in a rush may find that patience and preparation in a traditional listing lead to a more rewarding outcome.

Whichever route you consider, it’s smart to weigh the tradeoff between simplicity and maximizing your net proceeds before signing any offer.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, what matters most is aligning your strategy with your timeline, comfort with preparation, and financial goals.

Have you weighed both options, or do you have questions about which fits your needs in Santa Cruz County? Let’s talk through your scenario.

Lance Hulsey, Broker Associate
KW Thrive SC
CA DRE #01724888
www.lancehulseybroker.com
www.wealthbuildingbroker.com

Traditional listing or cash sale? Here’s when a Santa Clara County seller gains more by going the open-market route:Some...
06/04/2026

Traditional listing or cash sale? Here’s when a Santa Clara County seller gains more by going the open-market route:

Some sellers are drawn to the ease and speed of a cash home offer, but it’s not always the winning strategy if your goals include top-dollar results or you have flexibility.

- Homes in move-in-ready shape usually shine brightest on the open market, attracting buyers who are eager for a turnkey place.

- If you’re not rushing to relocate or liquidate, waiting out showings and negotiations can reward you with higher net proceeds.

- Competitive Santa Clara County conditions often mean more buyers, which can drive up final sale price in a traditional listing.

- Trust or estate sales where all heirs agree on the timeline often benefit from broad market exposure to maximize the outcome.

- Willing to invest in basic repairs or staging? A traditional sale rewards the time and effort with stronger buyer interest and better offers.

- Sellers aiming to avoid repairs, showings, or want a guaranteed, stress-free close may favor cash, but often leave some value behind.

- The right listing agent helps you weigh your priorities, speed, simplicity, or price, so you choose the best route for your situation.

Every seller’s priorities are different, but those aiming for the strongest return often find the traditional process worth the extra steps.

If you’re thinking about selling or weighing your options, which priorities matter most to you right now?

Lance Hulsey, Broker Associate
KW Thrive SC
CA DRE #01724888
www.lancehulseybroker.com
www.wealthbuildingbroker.com

Let’s be honest about the Santa Cruz County housing market.When people hear that homeowners build significantly more wea...
06/04/2026

Let’s be honest about the Santa Cruz County housing market.

When people hear that homeowners build significantly more wealth over time than renters, the common response is:

"That sounds great, but have you seen home prices in Santa Cruz County?"

Fair point.

Whether you're looking in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Aptos, Scotts Valley, Watsonville, or Soquel, homeownership can feel out of reach. But many of the homeowners who built wealth here didn't start with their forever home, they started with a strategy.

If you feel stuck in the rent cycle, here are a few ways to turn "someday" into a realistic plan:

1. Start with the First Home, Not the Dream Home

Many successful homeowners didn't begin with an ocean-view property or a large single-family home. They started with a condo, townhouse, or smaller property that allowed them to begin building equity. Over time, that equity became the stepping stone to their next move.

2. Think Beyond the Property

Santa Cruz County offers unique opportunities for flexible living arrangements. A home with space for extended family, a rentable room, or future ADU potential can help offset ownership costs while creating long-term value.

3. Build a Roadmap Before You're Ready

The buyers who succeed aren't always the ones with the biggest down payment today- they're often the ones who started planning early. Understanding your financing options, improving your purchasing power, and creating a clear timeline can make a huge difference when the right opportunity comes along.

The reality is that Santa Cruz County isn't getting any larger. With limited land, strong demand, and a lifestyle people continue to seek out, owning even a modest piece of the market can create opportunities that renting simply can't.

You don't need to have all the answers today.

You just need a plan.

Let's connect and create a strategy that works for your goals, timeline, and budget.

Lance Hulsey
Broker Associate Lic. 01724888
[email protected]
(831)295-8509
Keller Williams Thrive

Wondering if a cash home buyer makes more sense than listing your Santa Cruz County home the traditional way? Here’s whe...
06/03/2026

Wondering if a cash home buyer makes more sense than listing your Santa Cruz County home the traditional way? Here’s when choosing a direct cash offer might win out, and when holding out for the open market could be smarter.

Fast closings matter most when life throws major changes your way, like relocation, family transitions, or sudden financial needs.

A cash buyer’s no-repair, as-is offer can make moving on simpler for homes that need fixes or when prepping for showings just isn’t practical.

Want to avoid buyer financing drama or deals falling through last minute? Cash offers cut out lender risk and make your timeline predictable.

Many sellers appreciate not having to clean, stage, or coordinate open houses, especially if privacy or convenience is key.

If your main priority is maximizing proceeds and your property is move-in-ready, a traditional listing will likely attract more buyers and higher offers, especially when local demand is strong.

Sellers who have flexibility, time for some repairs, and aren’t under pressure to move fast often see bigger financial wins by exposing their home to the full market.

When families are handling a trust or inherited property, and all parties agree to wait, the open market route can help maximize what’s available for distribution.

In Santa Cruz County, it often comes down to your personal needs: speed and certainty versus optimizing for the best possible sale price.

Are you deciding between speed or top dollar for your Santa Cruz County sale? Share what matters most to your family or message for guidance on your options.

Lance Hulsey, Broker Associate
KW Thrive SC
CA DRE #01724888
www.lancehulseybroker.com
www.wealthbuildingbroker.com

The ultimate weekend for decluttering your home- or finding hidden treasures!!The annual Santa Cruz Garage Sale Weekend ...
06/02/2026

The ultimate weekend for decluttering your home- or finding hidden treasures!!

The annual Santa Cruz Garage Sale Weekend is back on June 6–7! As a Realtor, I always tell clients that decluttering is the absolute easiest way to maximize your space (and prep your home for the market).

If you want to clear out some space or score some amazing secondhand deals check it out!!

Lance Hulsey
Broker Associate Lic. 01724888
[email protected]
(831)295-8509
Keller Williams Thrive

What cash home-buying companies really look for when making offers in Santa Cruz County:Wondering how cash buyers set pr...
06/02/2026

What cash home-buying companies really look for when making offers in Santa Cruz County:

Wondering how cash buyers set prices and why their offers are different from a traditional sale? Here’s how these companies actually evaluate and price homes, so you can weigh the options with eyes wide open.

– Cash buyers focus on speed and convenience, offering quick, no-repair sales even when a home needs updates.

– Most companies base offers on a home’s current condition and skip traditional financing steps, which means fewer hassles for sellers.

– Online platforms and local companies both aim for a fast close, often presenting multiple offers but generally favoring homes that don’t require major work after the sale.

– Investors look for homes they can improve or rent, which often means lower initial offers in exchange for taking on repairs and uncertainties themselves.

– Cash offers typically cover closing costs and may waive commissions, but the sale price is usually discounted as part of the convenience tradeoff.

– Sellers who need certainty, like avoiding showings, delays, or repairs, often find cash offers appealing, while those prioritizing highest net proceeds might do better on the open market.

– The choice comes down to your priorities: is a fast, simple sale more valuable than holding out for a potentially higher price through traditional listing?

In Santa Cruz County, choosing between a cash buyer and the traditional route is about what matters most to you and your family. Save this guide to compare options when planning your next move.

Lance Hulsey, Broker Associate
KW Thrive SC
CA DRE #01724888
www.lancehulseybroker.com
www.wealthbuildingbroker.com

Address

1360 41st Avenue, Unit A
Capitola, CA
95010

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 6pm

Telephone

+14083751223

Website

http://www.lancehulseybroker.com/, http://www.solarispm.com/, https://www.dre.ca.g

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