Real Estate ToolboxSimi Valley · Ventura County
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Simi Valley · Ventura County · San Fernando & Conejo Valley

Real estate for every chapter of life

Two specialists, one team. Whether you're buying your first place, selling a home you've owned for years, or helping a parent downsize, Steve Hise and Tricia Garcia bring the local knowledge and steady hand that stage of life calls for.

2Local specialists, one team
eXpRealty brokerage
SFV · VC · LACounties served
Steve Hise and Tricia Garcia, Simi Valley real estate agents with Real Estate Toolbox
Steve & TriciaThe Real Estate Toolbox team
Who you'll work with

One team, two specialties

01
Steve Hise

Steve Hise

Community & Lifestyle Specialist

Deep knowledge of Simi Valley, Ventura County, and LA County neighborhoods — the schools, the commute, the feel of a block — so you choose a home that fits your life, not just your budget.

02
Tricia Garcia

Tricia Garcia

Inherited Homes & Senior Transitions

A steady, step-by-step guide for families navigating an inherited property or a senior loved one's move — from the first 30 days to a finished sale.

Start where you are

What brings you here today?

Working with Tricia and the rest of her team was a pleasure. Everyone we interacted with demonstrated tremendous dedication and expertise. Steve specifically helped us negotiate appraisal contingency funds, which ended up leaving the deal with several thousand dollars more than we otherwise would have.
Larry Jaquish · Zillow review
★★★★★
5.0 on Zillow
Verified client reviews
★★★★★
5.0 on Google Reviews
From verified past clients
★★★★★
5.0 on Facebook
Recommended by the community
Straight answers, on camera

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Common questions

Buying and selling in Simi Valley: your questions, answered

How do I find out what my Simi Valley home is worth?

Start with a free home value report. We look at recent sales near you, your home's condition, and what buyers are paying right now.

Online estimates are a rough guess. A local agent can see things a website can't, like your upgrades or a busy street. Get your free home value report.

What should I fix before I sell my house?

Focus on small things buyers notice first. Fresh paint, clean carpets, good lighting, and a tidy yard go a long way.

Big remodels don't always pay off. Talk to us before you spend money, and we'll tell you what's worth it in your price range. Our free seller's course covers prep, pricing, and timing.

How long does it take to sell a home in Ventura County?

It depends on your price, your home's condition, and how many homes are for sale that month. A well-priced home that shows well sells faster.

After you accept an offer, escrow usually takes about 30 to 45 days. We'll give you real numbers for your neighborhood when we meet.

How do real estate commissions work in California?

Commissions aren't set by law. They're always negotiable, and you'll agree on them in writing before anything starts.

Buyers now sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes. That agreement spells out how their agent gets paid. We'll walk you through every number up front, so there are no surprises.

How much money do I need to buy a home?

You may need less than you think. Some conventional loans allow as little as 3% down. FHA loans start at 3.5% down. Eligible veterans may qualify for VA loans with 0% down.

You'll also need money for closing costs, inspections, and moving. A lender can tell you exactly what fits your budget. See Ventura County loan limits and down payments.

What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?

Pre-qualified is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. Pre-approved means the lender checked your credit, income, and assets.

Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously. Get pre-approved before you start touring homes so you're ready to make an offer.

I'm a first-time buyer. Where do I start?

Start by talking to a lender and getting pre-approved. That tells you your price range. Then sit down with an agent to talk about where you want to live and what you need.

Our free home buyer's course walks you through every step, from pre-approval to getting your keys.

I inherited a house in California. What happens now?

First, find out if the home is in a trust or if it has to go through probate. That affects who can sell it and how long it takes.

Under Prop 19, a child can keep a parent's low property tax base only if the home becomes the child's main home within one year. There's also a dollar cap on how much value is protected. If you plan to sell or rent it, the property tax will usually go up to today's value.

Every family's situation is different, so check with an estate attorney or tax advisor. Tricia specializes in inherited homes. See your options for inherited homes.

Can I keep my low property tax if I downsize after 55?

Yes, in many cases. Under Prop 19, homeowners 55 and older can move their property tax base to a new home anywhere in California. You can do it up to three times.

You need to buy the new home within two years of selling the old one. If the new home costs more, part of the difference gets added to your tax base. Your county assessor has the final say, so confirm the details with them or a tax advisor.

How do you help a parent move to senior living or a smaller home?

We take it one step at a time. That includes timing the sale with the move, sorting and clearing out the home, and lining up trusted vendors.

Tricia specializes in senior transitions. She keeps the whole family in the loop so no one feels rushed. Schedule a free, no-pressure call.

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Not sure where to start? Let's talk it through.

A free, no-pressure conversation about your timeline, your goals, and what makes sense for your family right now.

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Real Estate Toolbox

Steve Hise • Tricia Garcia

Serving Simi Valley, Ventura County & Los Angeles County

eXp Realty — Licensed CA Real Estate Professionals
CA DRE #01702055 • CA DRE #02032007


Your Community • Your Transition • Your Real Estate Team

Call Us! (805) 424-6226

DRE#01346304