Sean Eliott

I've been a contributor to Living in California since its launch, bringing over a decade of real estate experience to the table. My journey began in 2013 as a freelance writer for local real estate agencies, where I developed a passion for exploring market trends, home financing, and the ins and outs of the industry. Over the years, my role has expanded to include real estate marketing and transaction coordination. I’m a dedicated researcher who enjoys diving deep into the real estate world and sharing insights that help buyers, sellers, and agents navigate the dynamic housing market in California and beyond.

Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

Let’s face it—buying a home is a big deal, and navigating the mortgage process can feel like trying to decode a foreign language. You’ll...

A Big Change Could Be Coming in the Housing Industry

Buying a home in today’s market feels like trying to thread a needle during an earthquake—prices are high, mortgage rates are stubborn, and competition...

The Costly Mistake Home Sellers Are Making in Today’s Market

Thinking about selling your home? Before you list, there’s one major mistake you’ll want to avoid—one that’s becoming more common and can seriously impact...

What is Mello-Roos? Everything You Need to Know About This California Tax

If you're shopping for a home in California—especially in newer communities—there’s a good chance you’ve come across the term Mello-Roos. But what exactly does...

The Lawsuit That Could Reshape Rent Prices Nationwide

If you’ve been renting or just following the wild fluctuations in housing prices lately, this is one story you’ll want to keep a close...

What Is an Earnest Money Deposit? A First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide

Buying your first home is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming. Between pre-approvals, inspections, contracts, and negotiations, there’s a...

The Top 10 States Solving America’s Housing Crisis (And the Ones Making It Worse)

If you’ve been house hunting lately, you already know—it’s rough out there. Sky-high prices, limited inventory, and rising mortgage rates have made homeownership feel...

What is Escrow in Real Estate?

If you've ever started the home buying or selling process and heard the word “escrow” tossed around like everyone should know what it means,...