Robert Schantz Keller Williams Realty Managing Broker

09/27/2026

Navigating the home buying process can feel overwhelming, but understanding the key steps can make it smoother and more enjoyable. 🏡✨ Start by determining your budget and getting pre-approved for a mortgage, which gives you a clear idea of your price range. Next, partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent, like me, ensures you have expert guidance tailored to your needs. As you search for homes, visiting properties helps you visualize your future. Finally, making an offer and negotiating terms is where strategy comes into play.

With my experience in the San Diego market, I can help you every step of the way.

Let's turn your dream of homeownership into reality!💪🔑

Robert Schantz - Broker Bob | Managing Broker | Realtor® Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro |
CA DRE #01295699 / 01360786
[email protected] | 619.985.5074

09/26/2026

Ceilings are easy to ignore until one changes the entire character of a room. Height, beams, coffers, tray details, skylights and even a simple change in material can influence how spacious, bright or finished a home feels.

For buyers, I would look up during a showing and notice more than style. Ceiling height can affect scale. Skylights can change natural light. Older stains or patchwork may deserve a closer look. Decorative beams may be structural or purely visual.

For homeowners thinking about design, the ceiling can also be an opportunity to add interest without filling the room with more furniture or decor.

The floor plan tells you where the room begins. The ceiling can change how the entire room is experienced.

09/26/2026

Downsizing can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can also be a rewarding experience. Here are some key tips to guide you:
- Assess your needs to determine the right space for your future.
- Declutter your home to simplify the moving process.
- Choose a location that suits your lifestyle and needs.
- Plan your finances to understand the costs involved.
- Hire a real estate professional to navigate the market.
- Market your home strategically to attract the right buyers.
- Prepare your home for showings to create a lasting impression.
- Be ready to negotiate offers to achieve the best outcome.
Let’s make your downsizing journey a success together! 🏡✨

Robert Schantz - Broker Bob | Managing Broker | Realtor® Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro |
CA DRE #01295699 / 01360786
[email protected] | 619.985.5074

09/25/2026

The accepted offer is not the finish line anymore.

Here is what I am seeing in San Diego escrows right now. Buyers get a home under contract, the inspection comes back, and then they ask for fifty or sixty thousand dollars off. On a house they agreed to buy two weeks earlier.

It is not every deal. The great homes are still selling clean. But the homes that need work are getting retraded.

My personal read: rates jumped from 6.22 percent in March to 6.95 percent this month. On a typical San Diego detached home, that is about $432 more a month. I think buyers are trying to win that money back from the seller.

If you are selling: get a pre-listing inspection and price for condition.
If you are buying: write the offer you actually intend to close on.

I broke it all down on my Substack.

https://robertschantz.substack.com/p/buyers-are-locking-up-houses-then

Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro CA DRE #01295699/01360786

The accepted offer is not the deal anymore · why the inspection became the second negotiation · what sellers, buyers, and agents need to do before fall gets colder

09/25/2026

A home inspection can feel overwhelming because every house comes with a list. I would not read that list as a simple pass or fail. I would use it to understand condition, priorities and future responsibility.

Start by separating findings into categories:

• Safety or major system concerns
• Items that may need attention soon
• Routine maintenance
• Cosmetic preferences

Then look at the whole picture. The age of the home, the condition of major systems, available documentation and your own comfort with future projects all matter.

One long report does not automatically mean a bad house, and a short report does not remove the need for careful review.

I can help buyers turn inspection information into better questions and a clearer next step.

09/25/2026

Bids are up, shovels are down. 🏗️📉

Developers across San Diego County are pressing pause as hard-costs run 44% higher than in 2020 and construction loans price in at rates many pro-formas can’t carry. The result? A thinning pipeline—projects like Seaside Ridge and Midway Rising are stuck in limbo—and Zonda’s latest data already shows base prices for detached builds hovering above $1.2 million. When fewer foundations pour now, our market will feel the squeeze in 2027-2028 just as demand normalizes.

Thinking about buying, selling or investing before the next supply crunch? Message me “PLAN” and I’ll walk you through timing, financing plays and neighborhood-level opportunities I’m seeing from Bay Park to La Mesa.

Source: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/san-diego-developers-say-rising-costs-stalling-some-housing-projects/4077146/

Robert Schantz - Broker Bob | Managing Broker | Realtor® Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro |
CA DRE #01295699 / 01360786
[email protected] | 619.985.5074

09/25/2026

Curious about what to expect at the San Diego Spirits Festival?

Here’s a quick rundown!

🎶🍹 You can look forward to tastings from a variety of local distillers, showcasing their unique spirits. Enjoy live music performances that will keep the energy high throughout the event.

Don’t forget to indulge in delicious bites from local eateries that will be present.

Lastly, this festival is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the rich history behind the spirits you’re tasting.

Are you ready to experience it all?

Let’s discuss in the comments!

Source: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2026/09/03/san-diego-spirits-fest-to-return-for-another-round-in-la-jolla/
Photo Credit: Noah Lyons

Robert Schantz - Broker Bob | Managing Broker | Realtor® Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro |
CA DRE #01295699 / 01360786
[email protected] | 619.985.5074

09/25/2026

I am grateful for the kind words from Emily Holmes, who has trusted me as her Broker for over 8 years. It's rewarding to know that my commitment to being communicative, accessible, and knowledgeable has made a positive impact on her real estate career.

I strive to provide a supportive environment where my clients feel protected and confident.

Thank you, Emily, for your trust and support!

09/25/2026

The San Diego Spirits Festival is back, and it's better than ever!

🎉 This annual event, taking place on September 26-27 at the Museum of Contemporary Art in La Jolla, showcases a delightful array of local distillers and their unique spirits. With over 17 years of history, this festival has evolved into a must-visit for spirit enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. 🍹✨ This year, you can expect to taste local favorites like Wild Tide's alcoholic ginger b**r and Dady’O Mezcal, while enjoying live music from talented artists. Plus, local eateries will be serving up delicious bites to complement your tastings. With general admission tickets starting at just $68, it’s an affordable way to indulge in the vibrant spirit culture of San Diego.

Join me in celebrating our local community and the incredible flavors it has to offer!

What are you most excited to try?

Let’s chat in the comments!🥂

Source: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2026/09/03/san-diego-spirits-fest-to-return-for-another-round-in-la-jolla/
Photo Credit: Noah Lyons

Robert Schantz - Broker Bob | Managing Broker | Realtor® Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro |
CA DRE #01295699 / 01360786
[email protected] | 619.985.5074

09/25/2026

Unlock the potential of your real estate investments with the 1031-into-DST strategy!

🏡✨ Here's how it works:
1️⃣ Sell your property.
2️⃣ Identify your replacement within 45 days.
3️⃣ Close within 180 days.
4️⃣ Defer all capital gains.
5️⃣ Invest into a DST for passive income—no tenants, no maintenance!

📈💰 Remember, this is educational content only and not tax or investment advice. If you're ready to explore your options, reply "review" for a conversation about your portfolio!

Robert Schantz - Broker Bob | Managing Broker | Realtor® Keller Williams Realty San Diego Metro |
CA DRE #01295699 / 01360786
[email protected] | 619.985.5074