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Today we’d like to introduce you to Bryn Schneider. Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started? Growing up the daughter of a builder/developer in Lexington, Kentucky, my passion for real estate comes naturally. Having firsthand knowledge of the building process allows me to offer an informed perspective on the planning, design, decoration, and selection of quality finishes for a home. My enthusiasm is contagious as it spills over into finding the right neighborhood for clients. From hiking the trails to sampling the cuisine in unique tucked-away spots to exploring the plethora of art and music in venues large and small, I believe it is important to find the location that best fits each homeowner’s lifestyle and am constantly adventuring. Coupled with my experience and knowledge of real estate, my educational background includes degrees in math, communications and educational leadership. I am well prepared to creatively promote clients’ listings, while my attention to detail and customer service skills allow me to effectively coach buyers through the many aspects of the home buying process. After a lifetime of loving real estate, I want to share my expertise and make the experience of buying or selling a home in California a joyful one for customers. We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road? For the most part, real estate has been a smooth road for me. Aside from the market crash of 2008, which was one of the hardest parts of my career, real estate has been so fun for me. Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on? As a licensed realtor with Compass realty in Los Angeles, I specialize in helping buyers and sellers. I am known for my ability to find a “diamond in the rough.” I can see a house for its true potential and help others visualize a space that they might otherwise write off. Whether it be for investment purposes or personal home ownership, I often see things in a bigger picture and can show clients how a little TLC on a property can make a house their dream home. What was your favorite childhood memory? Some of my favorite childhood memories were being on construction sites with my dad. I loved when I was able to use the nail gun or drive the bobcat. I felt like such a badass. Those skills have carried over today and I am not afraid to roll my sleeves up and help get a property ready to list or help knock down a wall or two once a client has taken possession of their new fixer-upper. Contact Info: Website: Today we’d like to introduce you to Bryn Schneider. Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started? Growing up the daughter of a builder/developer in Lexington, Kentucky, my passion for real estate comes naturally. Having firsthand knowledge of the building process allows me to offer an informed perspective on the planning, design, decoration, and selection of quality finishes for a home. My enthusiasm is contagious as it spills over into finding the right neighborhood for clients. From hiking the trails to sampling the cuisine in unique tucked-away spots to exploring the plethora of art and music in venues large and small, I believe it is important to find the location that best fits each homeowner’s lifestyle and am constantly adventuring. Coupled with my experience and knowledge of real estate, my educational background includes degrees in math, communications and educational leadership. I am well prepared to creatively promote clients’ listings, while my attention to detail and customer service skills allow me to effectively coach buyers through the many aspects of the home buying process. After a lifetime of loving real estate, I want to share my expertise and make the experience of buying or selling a home in California a joyful one for customers. We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road? For the most part, real estate has been a smooth road for me. Aside from the market crash of 2008, which was one of the hardest parts of my career, real estate has been so fun for me. Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on? As a licensed realtor with Compass realty in Los Angeles, I specialize in helping buyers and sellers. I am known for my ability to find a “diamond in the rough.” I can see a house for its true potential and help others visualize a space that they might otherwise write off. Whether it be for investment purposes or personal home ownership, I often see things in a bigger picture and can show clients how a little TLC on a property can make a house their dream home. What was your favorite childhood memory? Some of my favorite childhood memories were being on construction sites with my dad. I loved when I was able to use the nail gun or drive the bobcat. I felt like such a badass. Those skills have carried over today and I am not afraid to roll my sleeves up and help get a property ready to list or help knock down a wall or two once a client has taken possession of their new fixer-upper. Contact Info: Website: www.soldbybryn.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sold.by.bryn/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sold.by.bryn/

There are two ways to think about remodeling projects that will boost your home’s value; you can get one or two major remodels done or opt for a bunch of small fixes. Depending on your budget and your timetable, one approach may be better for you than the other. For instance, if you have an unfinished basement, maybe your dream when you first moved into your home was to refinish it. It never happened. But now that you are thinking about selling your home, you feel that a prospective buyer would really appreciate a full finished basement. Is that the remodeling project that you should do before selling? On the other hand, you want to spend as little as possible to squeeze as much value out of your home. Maybe you would prefer to just spruce up the kitchen cabinets or repaint the house.  Whichever camp you fall into, here’s one thing to keep in mind: focus on high-impact areas. While it may be tempting to tackle every room, concentrating on key areas can yield the best return on investment. Here are some proven winners: Kitchen Upgrades Minor Remodels: Instead of a complete overhaul, focus on updating key elements like countertops, cabinets, and appliances. A minor kitchen remodel often provides a high return on investment (ROI) by modernizing the space without the extensive cost of a full renovation. Open Concept: Removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open-concept layout can make your home feel larger and more modern, which is particularly appealing to buyers. Bathroom Enhancements Updating Fixtures: Replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and lighting with more contemporary options can refresh a bathroom’s look with minimal investment. Adding Modern Features: Consider installing a walk-in shower, dual-flush toilets, or underfloor heating. These additions not only improve the functionality of the bathroom but also appeal to buyers looking for luxury touches. Flooring Refinishing existing hardwood floors or installing new ones can dramatically improve the appeal of your home. Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) are another popular, durable option that offers a high ROI. Storage Solutions Adding built-in storage solutions, such as expanded closets or customized shelving, can enhance the functionality of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Exterior Improvements Siding and Paint: Repainting your home’s exterior or upgrading to new siding can significantly enhance its curb appeal. Consider adding stone veneers to parts of the exterior for an even more dramatic effect. Garage Doors and Entry Doors: Replacing your garage door and front entry door with newer, more energy-efficient models is one of the highest-ROI projects you can undertake. Decks and Patios: Creating or updating outdoor spaces like decks or patios can be a major selling point, especially in regions where outdoor living is popular. Consider adding features like built-in seating, fire pits, or even an outdoor kitchen. Landscaping: Simple landscaping upgrades like adding new plants, mulch, or a paved walkway can make a significant impact on your home's first impression and value. Windows and Insulation: Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and adding insulation can not only reduce energy costs for the future homeowner but also increase your home’s market appeal. A qualified agent with years of experience in the real estate market can help you determine the best improvements to make based on your particular market. When you’re ready to learn more, connect with us today. We’re happy to help!

Deciding when to sell your home is a big decision, one that can have an outsized impact on your financial future. Understanding the general indicators that it might be the right time to sell can help you make the best choice for your situation. You've Outgrown Your Home Whether you’re expecting a new family member, caring for an elderly relative, or your children have flown the nest, your home’s size may no longer suit your lifestyle. In which case, upgrading to a larger home or downsizing to a smaller one becomes the next natural step to take. You Need a Change Life often brings changes that require a move. Whether it's a new job, a desire for a different climate, or a need to be closer to family, selling your home can mean embracing a new chapter. A well-timed sale can help you transition smoothly to your next destination. The Market is Favorable One of the best times to sell is when market conditions are in your favor. A seller's market—characterized by high demand and low inventory—can result in quicker sales and potentially higher offers. Monitoring market trends can help you decide if it's the right time to list your home. Financial Strain Unexpected financial difficulties, such as job loss, illness, or changes in family circumstances, can make it challenging to keep up with mortgage payments. In such cases, selling your home might be the best option to avoid further financial stress and to start fresh in a more manageable situation. Additional Tips for Sellers Consider the Timing: While the best time to sell can vary depending on your location and circumstances, listing your home during the spring and early summer months is generally advantageous. Homes tend to sell faster and for higher prices during these peak seasons. Market Readiness: Ensure your home is in good condition and well-presented before listing it. Simple improvements, such as a fresh coat of paint or minor repairs, can significantly impact your home's appeal to potential buyers. Plan Ahead: Selling a home can happen quickly, especially in a favorable market. Make sure you’re prepared for a fast transition, including having your next living arrangements planned out. If you're considering selling your home, it's essential to evaluate your personal situation and the general market conditions. Consulting with a real estate agent can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

Buying your first home is a thrilling yet daunting adventure. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—anxiety, excitement, and maybe even a little fear. But remember: you’re in control of your homebuying experience; and with the right approach and a great real estate agent by your side, finding your dream home can be a smooth process. Here’s a list of tips tailored just for you, the first-time homebuyer. Following these steps will help you get off on the right foot and make the home-buying process smoother for yourself and everyone involved. Be Transparent with Your Agent Your agent is there to help you find the perfect home, but they can only do their job effectively if you’re open and honest about your needs, wants, and budget. The more detailed you are about your goals, the better they can assist you. Create Detailed Lists Before you start house hunting, take some time to get organized. Write down a list of what you want in a home and another list of what you need. Prioritizing your needs over your wants will help both you and your agent focus on finding a property that ticks the most important boxes. As you refine your thoughts, update these lists and share the changes with your agent to keep the search on track. Keep Personal Notes on Properties While your agent will keep thorough records of the homes you visit, it’s a good idea for you to take your own notes, too. After each open house or showing, jot down what you liked and didn’t like about the property. Share your thoughts with your agent; this feedback will help them narrow down the search and find homes that are a better fit for you. Stay Organized with Your Documents Keeping your paperwork in order is essential. If you have a mortgage pre-approval letter, bring it with you when you go house hunting—especially if you’re ready to make an offer. Make sure that all necessary documents, such as inspection reports or appraisals, are easily accessible as you search for your new home. Maintain a Positive Attitude The home-buying process can sometimes be longer and more challenging than expected. It’s important to stay positive throughout the journey. If you’ve viewed several homes and haven’t found the right one yet, don’t lose hope. Trust that your agent is working hard to find the perfect match for you. Even after making an offer, the closing process can take time, so patience is key. Ready to Work with an Agent? Having an experienced real estate agent by your side is invaluable, especially when you’re a first-time buyer. They can help you navigate the complexities of the process and answer any questions you might have. If you’re serious about starting your home search, now is the time to connect with an agent. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any specific questions or to begin your journey toward finding your dream home. We’re here to help!

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bryn Schneider and we’ve shared our conversation below. Hi Bryn, how do you define success? As a realtor, success can be de ned in several ways. Building strong relations ships with clients and ensuring their satisfaction ensures repeat business, referrals and positive testimonials. I have yet to take on a client that did not come from the referral of a previous client. Meeting and exceeding sales goals also makes me feel successful. I have been fortunate that I have grown each year and am able to beat the previous year’s sales. Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community? Real estate is in my blood. I have lived it my whole life, from being on jobsites as a young girl to getting my license in KY in 2007. I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly, from market crashes to 3% interest rates, there is not much about this industry I haven’t experienced. The events of the 2008 nancial crisis and subsequent housing market crash highlighted the importance of understanding market volatility. Real estate values can uctuate dramatically, and it’s crucial to be prepared for market downturns and adapt your strategies accordingly. The past decade has reinforced the signi cance of conducting thorough market analysis and research. Understanding local market conditions, trends, and demographics is crucial for making informed decisions, whether it’s investing, pricing properties, or identifying opportunities. Real estate is generally a long-term investment, and the lessons learned since 2007 have emphasized the importance of taking a long-term perspective. Understanding the cyclical nature of real estate markets and making informed, strategic decisions based on long-term goals can lead to more successful outcomes. I always encourage clients to invest in real estate when they can. Holding on to properties and building a portfolio continues to be a great way to build long term wealth Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to? If my best friend was in town I would immediately take her to the Observatory. The views on a sunny day remind me what a gorgeous and sprawling city Los Angeles is. We would then head to Maru for co ee and continue on to the farmer’s market at the Grove for food. I would make sure to drive her past the movie studios along the way, seeing the arches at Paramount always makes me smile. We would then do some light shopping and plan to have Sugarfish for dinner. The next morning would kick off with an adventure at Universal Studios to check out Super Mario world since we used to always play Nintendo together when we were younger. If we aren’t too tired by the end of the day dinner and a cocktail at FireFly would cap off the weekend. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the e orts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Wow, this is really hard, there are a lot of people that have supported me, but I think my father stands out the most. He helped me develop my love of real estate. He was a builder my whole life. I grew up seeing his dedication to his family while growing a large company where all his employees loved him. I am grateful for the countless hours he spent teaching me how to use power tools and helping me build my own original furniture pieces. He is an incredible role model and continues to support my real estate dreams today. My parents moved to LA to be closer to me and my brother and have continued to be wonderful clients and support my business while investing in properties of their own to continue to build their portfolio. Website: soldbybryn.com (http://soldbybryn.com) Instagram: @sold.by.bryn

We were lucky to catch up with Bryn Schneider recently and have shared our conversation below. Bryn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice) I think it goes without saying the best investments I have ever made were properties I have owned. I was taught from an early age the importance of owning real estate, my father was a builder /developer my whole life and my family owned a real estate company in KY at one point. I bought my first house at the age of 25 and have bought and sold 3 properties since. I just bought a townhouse in Los Angeles and after a few upgrades I now have over 150k in equity in just a few months. I am looking forward to building my real estate portfolio in Los Angeles and love helping others build wealth in the same way. Bryn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do? I grew up the daughter of a builder/developer in Lexington, Kentucky, You could say I come by my passion for real estate naturally. Having firsthand knowledge of the building process allows me to offer an informed perspective on the planning, design, decoration, and selection of quality finishes for a home. My enthusiasm is contagious as it spills over into finding the right neighborhood for my clients. From hiking the trails, to sampling the cuisine in unique tucked away spots, to exploring the plethora of art and music in venues large and small, I believe it is important to find the location that best fits their lifestyle. Coupled with my experience and knowledge of real estate, my educational background includes degrees in math, communications and educational leadership. I am well prepared to creatively promote clients’ listings, and my attention to detail and customer service skills allow me to effectively coach buyers through the many aspects of the home buying process. After a lifetime of loving real estate, I want to share this expertise and make the experience of buying or selling a home in California a joyful one for clients. Where do you think you get most of your clients from? Referrals, all of my business has come from referrals. I have yet to fully dive into marketing myself or lead generation and continue to gain new clients. I am so lucky my clients continue to share my name with others they know are looking to buy or sell. Have you ever had to pivot? As we all know the real estate market crashed in 2008-09. Seeing the affects it had on my family scared me, so I decided to get into a more “stable” career and went back to school to become a teacher. While I loved the children and people I met during this time, my heart was not in it and the pay was unmanageable. Clearly not much has changed in the school systems as teachers are still staging walkouts and protests across the county as we have just recently seen. After 6 years in the classroom I decided to get back into real estate, since that was my first love and where my heart really was. Not only did I decide to get re-licensed, I also simultaneously moved to Los Angeles to dive into the real estate market here. Luckily, that new leap of faith was the right move for me. Contact Info: Website: soldbybryn.com Instagram: @sold.by.bryn