Many buyers and sellers wait until they've found a home or decided to list before reaching out for advice.

In many situations, however, the most important decisions are made well before a transaction begins. Bringing the right advisors into the conversation early can create more options, reduce surprises, and help every part of the process move more smoothly.

Do you really need a full advisory team when buying or selling a home?

Not always—but in many cases, having the right professionals involved early can make a meaningful difference. Real estate decisions often intersect with tax planning, estate planning, and broader financial considerations.

Given my background in law, I tend to approach real estate decisions with a focus on structure, timing, and how each piece fits into the broader picture.

Who should typically be part of that conversation?

It depends on the situation, but often includes a real estate advisor, lender, CPA, and sometimes an estate planning attorney or financial advisor. Each brings a different perspective—whether it’s structuring the transaction, understanding tax implications, or evaluating long-term strategy.

When should those conversations start?

Earlier than most people expect, ideally before a property is identified or a home is listed. Many of the most important decisions—timing, pricing, ownership structure, and financing—are shaped before a transaction formally begins.

How does this approach change the outcome?

It often leads to more clarity and fewer surprises. Instead of reacting to decisions mid-transaction, clients are making informed choices from the beginning. That can influence everything from pricing strategy to how an offer is structured.

Do buyers and sellers actually take this approach?

It's certainly common in higher-value transactions, but it's becoming more common across the market. Anytime a move intersects with broader financial planning, tax considerations, or family decisions, early coordination can add value.

How do you typically work with CPAs, attorneys, or financial advisors during a transaction?

Most collaboration happens early and behind the scenes. When a client is working with a CPA, financial advisor, or attorney, I’ll often connect with that advisor to make sure the real estate strategy aligns with their broader planning—whether that involves timing, ownership structure, or tax considerations.

The goal is not to complicate the process, but to simplify it by addressing these factors upfront rather than later in the transaction.

What if a client doesn’t already have that network in place?

That’s something I can help with. Over time, I’ve built relationships with professionals across the South Bay—including CPAs, attorneys, lenders, and financial advisors—who are thoughtful, experienced, and aligned with a similar approach to client service.

THE BOTTOM LINE

The best real estate decisions often begin before a property is bought or sold.

Starting the conversation early gives you more time to evaluate your options, coordinate with trusted advisors, and make decisions that support your long-term goals.

Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or simply planning ahead, thoughtful preparation can make the entire process more confident and less stressful.

Continue Exploring

I'd recommend:

• The Advisors Behind Many Successful South Bay Real Estate Decisions
• Legal-Enhanced Guidance
• South Bay Tech Equity Home Buying Guide
• How Sophisticated Buyers Are Evaluating South Bay Real Estate

About Steven Mullins

Steven Mullins is a South Bay real estate advisor with Vista Sotheby's International Realty, specializing in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and the surrounding South Bay communities.

A former corporate and real estate attorney, Steven helps buyers, sellers, and investors navigate complex transactions with thoughtful strategy, careful negotiation, and a long-term perspective.