Linda Kasten

05/06/2026

04/27/2026

Most Phoenix Metro Area buyers focus on negotiating the list price and miss finding leverage in other areas.

Meanwhile, the levers that can save you the most don't touch the list price at all.

➡️ Ask the seller to buy down your rate. This can save you tens of thousands over the life of the loan.

➡️ Then there's the repair credits. Instead of going back and forth over who fixes what, ask for a credit at closing.

You keep the money, choose your own contractor, and what it looks like when it's finished.

➡️ Don't forget to ask what stays with the home. Appliances, furniture, window treatments, these are all negotiable. (And that's money you don't have to go spend later).

➡️ And most importantly: talk to more than one lender. I've seen the same buyer get wildly different rates just by making two extra phone calls.

Ready to navigate the Phoenix Metro Area market without the surprises? Message me directly to get the inside scoop on the best new listings and local life. Let’s get your questions answered today!

04/20/2026

Thinking of selling? I can help!

04/11/2026

Do you know the most important home feature to consider?

02/23/2026

I haven’t posted on my real estate page for several months due to a serious illness. I am now healed and will be posting again. Please reach out if you have any questions.

04/13/2024

Home for sale!

Explore this 3 bed, 2 bath home in northeast Phoenix!

Featuring:
- Upgraded kitchen and bathrooms
- Fireplace
- Large backyard

Please share with anyone searching for their next home!

Contact me for more information or for a showing.

Linda Kasten
480-229-7729
[email protected]

01/15/2024

This single level, 1865 square foot home was built in 2016. It has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a 2 car garage. It also has a bonus area between the 2nd and 3rd bedrooms. Located in the growing San Tan Valley area. Please reach out if you have questions and/or would like to see this beautiful home.

01/15/2024

This 4 bedroom, 2 bath home is located in east Mesa. Great home for entertaining. Backyard has an extra large patio and overhang with lights, propane BBQ, and a fire pit. List price is $455,000. Reach out to me if you would like to see this home or any home in the Phoenix metro area.

USA Realty

11/15/2022

Ready for some real talk about getting a mortgage this fall? As rates inch higher, more homeowners are buying down their interest rates. Curious about what that means and if it’s right for you?

Here’s the rundown on mortgage rate buydowns: - A mortgage buydown is a way to lower your interest rate by paying discount points at closing. Discount points are a one-time, upfront fee.

Each point costs 1 percent of the mortgage. For example, one point on a $200,000 mortgage would cost $2,000. - Each point lowers the rate by 0.25 percent. So, one point would lower a mortgage rate from 6 percent to 5.75 percent for the life of the loan.

If you've got some extra savings and can afford it, buying mortgage points may be a smart investment. Have more questions about buying a home or taking out a mortgage this fall? DM me - I’m here to help however I can.

10/25/2022

Ready to buy and make home your happy place? Then, you need to sidestep these three rookie mistakes:

1. Making major changes too soon. Instead, move in, live, and discover exactly how you use your spaces before costly renovations.

2. Hiring a shady contractor. If you have small jobs (paint, flooring, etc.), do your research, ask friends for referrals, and don’t pay in full upfront.

3. Overestimating your handyman skills. Sure, home reno shows make it look easy, but the reality is much different. Be honest about your DIY ability, and don’t hesitate to toss certain projects
to the pros.

If you’re looking to buy your first (or next!) house, I’d love to help you avoid these mistakes and more!