What Truly Sets Park Place Collective Group Apart: Unmatched Client Service

 

Why Client Service Sets Park Place Collective Group Apart

At Park Place Collective Group, led by Joe and Marni Costa, client service isn't just a goal — it's a standard we live by every single day. In an industry where response times can lag and client needs can sometimes feel secondary, we pride ourselves on being different. We have built our reputation by delivering a high-level client experience that rivals even the very best in the mortgage world.

Our Commitment to Availability

One of the key pillars that separates Park Place Collective Group from most mortgage companies is our unwavering availability. We understand that real estate transactions don’t just happen Monday through Friday, 9 to 5. Life happens on weekends, in the evenings, and at unexpected times — and that's exactly when our clients can count on us. We make ourselves available when our clients need us most, ensuring no question goes unanswered and no concern goes unaddressed.

Setting Expectations and Clear Communication

From the very first conversation, we take the time to set clear expectations about the mortgage process. We believe that transparency breeds trust. Our clients are always informed about where they are in the process, what steps are coming next, and what is needed to keep their file moving smoothly.

Follow-through is a cornerstone of our service. We don't just provide updates when asked — we proactively communicate, making sure our clients are never left wondering about the status of their loan.

Handling Client Files as If They Were Our Own

When we take on a client, we treat their file with the same level of care, urgency, and attention to detail that we would expect if we were in their position. Every loan application, every document, every deadline — it all matters to us because it matters to our clients. We believe that this mentality — treating every client like family — is what builds lasting relationships and truly sets us apart.

Problem-Solving with a Solution-First Mentality

In the mortgage business, challenges can and do arise. But at Park Place Collective Group, we don't shy away from them. Instead, we approach obstacles head-on, immediately working with our clients in a solution-mode environment. Rather than getting bogged down in problems, we stay focused on paths forward, ensuring that our clients feel supported every step of the way.

At Park Place Collective Group, our mission is simple:

To provide the kind of service we would want if we were in our clients' shoes — responsive, proactive, caring, and committed to success.

When you work with us, you’re not just getting a mortgage company. You’re getting a dedicated team that’s by your side from start to finish — and beyond.

Joe & Marni Costa

The Park Place Collective Group

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego, CA 92101

619-990-7552

www.parkplacecollective.com

Southern Housing Markets Offer New Opportunities for Homebuyers

 

Recent trends in the southern U.S. housing market have created favorable conditions for prospective homebuyers. Cities such as Miami, Jacksonville, Tampa, New Orleans, and Memphis are experiencing increased housing inventories and extended listing periods, leading to more opportunities for buyers.

Key Highlights:

• Miami, FL: Homes are now on the market for a median of 60 days, nearly three times longer than the national average, with 25% of listings seeing price reductions in February 2025. 
  

• Jacksonville, FL: Inventory has increased by over 26% year-over-year, and nearly 30% of sellers reduced their prices in February.
  

• Tampa, FL: The market has seen a 19.8% rise in inventory compared to the same period last year, with about one-third of homes experiencing price cuts in February.
  

• New Orleans, LA: Listings have surged by 42% compared to pre-pandemic levels, providing buyers with a broader selection.
  

• Memphis, TN: Affordability is a key factor, with typical mortgage payments being lower than rental costs, making homeownership more accessible.
  

These shifts indicate a transition towards buyer-friendly markets in these regions. For those considering purchasing a home, now may be an opportune time to explore these areas.?

For personalized advice and to explore financing options, consult with a qualified mortgage professional who can guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.

Source: New York Post

Why Selling Your Investments Now Might Be a Huge Mistake (And What You Can Do Instead)

Here’s a smarter way to buy a home without touching your down market portfolio.

With everything going on in the markets right now—stocks down, bond yields all over the place, and mutual funds getting dragged through the mud—it’s easy to feel like your hands are tied.

Especially if you’re a buyer looking to purchase a home and your savings are tied up in these investments.

Here’s the problem:

You know liquidating now could mean taking a huge loss.

But you also don’t want to miss out on the perfect home.

So what do you do?

You pledge it, don’t sell it.

At Park Place Collective, we’ve helped clients in this exact situation with one of the most underrated tools in today’s mortgage market: the Pledge Asset Home Purchase Loan Program.

Here’s how it works in plain English:

Instead of selling your investments at a loss, you pledge them as collateral. You still get to use them to support your home loan—without cashing out.

Why this is a game-changer:

• No need to sell low: Avoid locking in losses while the markets are suppressed.
• Still qualify for a strong loan: Your pledged assets help you qualify for better terms.
• Keep your upside potential: As the markets recover, your portfolio gets a second chance to climb back to pre-crash values.
• Stay invested, stay liquid: You keep ownership of your assets while putting them to work toward homeownership.

This strategy isn’t for everyone. But if your net worth is heavily tied to the market—and you're reluctant to sell now—it could be the smartest way to buy your next home.

Why buyers love it right now:

We’re seeing more and more savvy buyers turn to this program.

They don’t want to dump their investments at the worst possible time.

They know the market will bounce back eventually.

And when it does, they’ll be sitting pretty—with a new home AND their investments intact.

If you're find yourself in this situation, reach out to us today.

We’ll walk you through the details, run the numbers, and see if this program is the right fit for your situation.

We’re not just here to get you a loan—we’re here to get you the right loan for your full financial picture.

Joe & Marni Costa

🏠 Park Place Collective Group

📋 NMLS: 2571108

📞 Let’s chat about your options—before you sell anything you don’t have to.

Schedule a Call

How Are Property Taxes Calculated?

 When you’re budgeting for a new home, there’s one number you don’t want to overlook: property taxes.

Whether you're buying your first home, relocating, or investing in land, understanding how property taxes are calculated is essential to avoid surprises and ensure your monthly payment fits your lifestyle.

Let’s break down the process in simple terms and highlight a few lesser-known factors that could impact what you’ll owe.

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Property Taxes 101: The Basics

Property taxes are typically based on the assessed value of your home and the local tax rate set by your city, county, or municipality.

Here’s the classic formula:

Assessed Value x Local Tax Rate = Annual Property Tax

Sounds simple enough, right? But the details behind that "assessed value" can vary greatly—and that’s where things get interesting.

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Land Value vs. Structure Value

In many areas, the tax assessor separates the value of your land from the structure (like your house, garage, or outbuildings). This method is called land value taxation.

Why does this matter?

In some markets, land value may rise faster than the structure itself. That means you could pay higher taxes even if your house hasn’t changed much—just because of where it sits.

In places with rapid growth or zoning potential (think Austin, Miami, or outside cities like San Francisco), even vacant lots can have surprisingly high property tax bills due to land value alone.

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"Highest and Best Use" Can Impact Your Tax Bill

Another concept that often surprises buyers is highest and best use.

This means your property might be taxed not based on what it currently is, but what it could be used for. For example:

• A modest home in a rapidly developing area may be assessed as if it were a commercial lot.

• An empty piece of land might be taxed at the value it would carry if it were developed into luxury townhomes or retail space.

This practice is more common in urban and up-and-coming areas where zoning allows for mixed-use or higher-density development.

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Location, Location… and Taxation

Even an unbuilt lot in the right zip code can trigger a high tax bill. In fact, one example in the SFGate article noted a piece of undeveloped land in Austin, TX carried a tax bill of over $60,000 because it was assessed based on its future commercial potential—not its current use.

In areas like Miami Beach, FL, Mountain View, CA, or Charlotte, NC, it’s not uncommon for land taxes to reflect market demand and development potential—even before any building happens.

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So What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re shopping for a home or land:

• Don’t just ask about the current property tax bill—ask how it’s calculated
• Look up how your county or city assesses value—some use full market value, others use fractional percentages
• Consider future zoning, growth, and location when evaluating potential tax increases
• Talk to your lender or local tax assessor’s office to estimate the full cost of ownership

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Applies Generally to All States:

• Property taxes are based on assessed value × tax rate

• Most jurisdictions separate land and improvement (structure) values

• Local governments set property tax rates, often at the city, county, and school district levels

• Zoning and market potential can influence assessed value

• Property tax bills are recalculated annually or every few years in most places

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Varies by State/County:

• How land is assessed (some states give exemptions or caps on assessment increases)

• Whether “highest and best use” is used during assessments (common in high-growth areas)

• Reassessment frequency (e.g., annually in California, only at sale in some other states)

• Homestead exemptions, caps, and freezes (Texas, Florida, and others have specific laws that limit tax increases for primary residences)

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In Summary:

Yes—the concepts are broadly applicable nationwide, but the details will vary locally. That’s why it’s smart for buyers to:

• Talk to a local lender or real estate agent

• Look up the local assessor’s guidelines

• Consider how quickly taxes could rise based on development trends in their area

Talk to a Pro Before You Buy

We work with mortgage professionals across the country who are here to help you not only get pre-approved—but also understand the total monthly cost of your new home, including property taxes.

If you're not sure how property taxes will impact your budget, don’t worry. We’re here to walk you through it. Schedule a call or contact Joe & Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group today to learn more.

Park Place Collective

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego, CA 92101

619-990-7552

www.parkplacecollective.com

Unlock More Buying Power with Income Stacking

 

A smart way for self-employed and complex earners to qualify for a home loan If you’re self-employed client's or income doesn’t fit neatly into a W2 box…

Your client's got plenty of cash flow—but proving it on paper? That’s the hard part.

That’s where income stacking comes in.

At Park Place Collective, we specialize in helping clients just like you qualify using multiple income sources—not just one.

What is income stacking?

It’s exactly what it sounds like:

We “stack” together different types of income to help you qualify for the home you want.

Instead of relying on just one source, we combine several to show the full financial picture.

This makes a HUGE difference for buyers with more complex income situations—like business owners, freelancers, real estate investors, and entrepreneurs.

Here’s what we can use:

✔️ Tax Returns – Perfect if your reported income is solid and steady

✔️ Bank Statements – Great for self-employed borrowers with strong deposits

✔️ Asset Depletion – Convert retirement or investment accounts into qualifying income

✔️ ADU Rental Income – Got an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)? That income can count too!

Use them individually or combine them together—whatever gets you the best result.

Who is this perfect for?

• Entrepreneurs & small business owners
• 1099 earners and freelancers
• Investors with large assets but low reported income
• Buyers with ADU rental income
• Anyone with a “non-traditional” income stream

Why income stacking matters right now:

In today’s tight market, buying power is everything.

And if your client is not using all of their income sources to qualify, they could be leaving money—and homes—on the table.

We’ve helped countless clients go from “declined” to “approved” using income stacking, and we’re ready to do the same for you.

Let’s talk.

We'll walk you and your client's through what income sources we can use, how we qualify them, and what kind of loan options are available.

📞 Call or text us at 619-990-7552

📧 info@parkplacecollective.com

Let’s get creative with your approval—and get you into the home you deserve.

Joe & Marni Costa

Park Place Collective Group

NMLS: 2571108

Skip the Stress: Get Pre-Approved with Our Automated Loan System — No Impact to Your Credit Score!

 

At The Park Place Collective Group, we believe that getting started on your homeownership journey should be exciting—not overwhelming. That’s why Joe & Marni Costa have streamlined the process with our automated loan pre-approval system, designed to make things easier, faster, and more transparent for you.

Skip the Stress: Get Pre-Approved with Our Automated Loan System — No Impact to Your Credit Score!

At The Park Place Collective Group, we believe that getting started on your homeownership journey should be exciting—not overwhelming. That’s why Joe & Marni Costa have streamlined the process with our automated loan pre-approval system, designed to make things easier, faster, and more transparent for you.

✅ Fast. Easy. Reliable.

Gone are the days of endless paperwork and waiting weeks for a response. Our automated system delivers instant pre-approvals, so you know exactly where you stand—right away. Whether you're house hunting over the weekend or planning your next move late at night, you can take that crucial first step with confidence.

💡 No Hard Credit Pulls. No Worries.

One of the biggest concerns buyers have during the loan process is how it will affect their credit score. Good news: our pre-approval process uses a soft credit pull only—so there’s zero impact on your credit. You get the clarity you need without any of the stress.

🏡 Why Pre-Approval Matters

Getting pre-approved isn't just a formality—it gives you a competitive edge in a hot market. Sellers and agents take your offer more seriously when they know you’re financially prepared. And with our automated system, you're not only pre-approved, you're ready to act fast when the right home hits the market.

Ready to see what you qualify for?

Get started with Joe & Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group today. It’s quick, secure, and won’t affect your credit score. Your dream home might be closer than you think.

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego, CA 92101

619-990-7552

www.parkplacecollective.com

Low Down-Payment Financing Options: Comparing Home Possible and HomeReady

Joe & Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group are here to help you navigate your home financing options. If you're considering a conventional loan with a low down payment, two excellent programs are Home Possible by Freddie Mac and HomeReady by Fannie Mae. While both options have similar guidelines, there are a few differences to consider. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you determine which program may be the best fit for your needs.

FeatureHome PossibleHomeReady
Income Eligibility	Up to 80% of the Average Median Income (AMI)	Up to 80% of the Average Median Income (AMI)
Minimum Credit Score	620 or Higher	620 or Higher
First-Time Homebuyer Requirement	Not Required	Not Required
Maximum Loan-to-Value (LTV)	97% for Conforming / 95% for Super Conforming	97% for Conforming / 95% for Super Conforming
Non-Occupant Co-Borrowers	Eligible	Eligible
Down Payment Source	Gifts, Grants, Down Payment Assistance (DPA)	Gifts, Grants, Down Payment Assistance (DPA) + Funds from Non-Owner Occupant Co-Borrower
Secondary Financing	Up to 97% LTV if Subordinate Lien is not a Community Seconds Loan	Up to 97% LTV if Subordinate Lien is not a Community Seconds Loan
Community Seconds Financing	Combined Loan-to-Value (CLTV) up to 105%	Combined Loan-to-Value (CLTV) up to 105%
Flexible Income Sources	Broader Income Sources Accepted	Accepts Rental Income from Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Mortgage Insurance Coverage	80.01%-85% LTV: 12% Coverage85.01%-95% LTV: 25% Coverage	80.01%-85% LTV: 12% Coverage85.01%-95% LTV: 25% Coverage

Key Takeaways:

• Both Home Possible and HomeReady offer flexible financing options with as little as 3% down.
• Income Eligibility is capped at 80% AMI for both programs, making them ideal for moderate-income borrowers.
• Gift Funds and Down Payment Assistance are permitted under both programs, but HomeReady has the added advantage of accepting funds from non-owner occupant co-borrowers.
• Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Income can be used with HomeReady, providing additional flexibility for those with rentable space.
• If using a Community Seconds Loan, both options allow a CLTV up to 105%.

Which Option Is Right for You?

• If you have a non-owner occupant co-borrower contributing to your down payment, HomeReady may be the best fit.
• If you have broader or unconventional income sources, Home Possible offers more flexibility.
• Both programs are excellent for borrowers with a 620+ credit score who are seeking low down payment financing.

Need personalized guidance? Contact Joe & Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group today to explore your financing options and find the best loan program for your needs!

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego, CA 92101

619-990-7552

info@parkplacecollective.com 

Why Waiting to Buy a Home Could Cost You

 In today's housing market, many potential buyers are hesitant due to rising mortgage rates and increasing home prices. However, industry experts suggest that delaying your home purchase might not be the best strategy. Barbara Corcoran, founder of The Corcoran Group and star of "Shark Tank," emphasizes that despite higher rates, now is the time to buy. She points out that with many homeowners holding onto low-interest mortgages, housing inventory remains tight, leading to continued price increases. By acting now, buyers can avoid higher costs in the future.

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Understanding the Current Market Dynamics

The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage has seen a slight uptick, reaching 6.67% for the week ending March 20, 2025. While this is higher than previous years, it's important to note that home prices are still on the rise, albeit at a slower pace. This trend suggests that waiting for rates to decrease may not result in overall savings, as home prices may continue to appreciate.?

The Risk of Waiting for Lower Rates

Holding off on purchasing in hopes of lower mortgage rates can be a gamble. Even if rates decrease slightly, the concurrent rise in home prices could negate any potential savings. Additionally, with limited inventory due to many homeowners retaining their low-rate mortgages, finding the right property could become more challenging over time.?

Advantages of Acting Now

• Building Equity Sooner: Purchasing a home now allows you to start building equity immediately, positioning you to benefit from any future appreciation.?

• Potential for Refinancing: Should mortgage rates decrease in the future, refinancing could offer an opportunity to secure a lower rate while retaining the benefits of earlier homeownership.?

• Avoiding Increased Competition: As more buyers enter the market anticipating lower rates, competition could intensify, potentially driving prices higher and reducing your negotiating power.

Joe & Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego,CA 92101

619-990-7552

www.parkplacecollective.cm

Townhomes: A Smart Solution for Today's First-Time Homebuyers

 

As the housing market continues to evolve, first-time homebuyers are exploring various options to achieve homeownership. One option gaining popularity is purchasing a townhome, which offers a blend of affordability, convenience, and community living.

Why Consider a Townhome?

1. Affordability: Townhomes often come with a lower price tag compared to single-family homes, making them an attractive option for first-time buyers looking to enter the housing market without stretching their budgets.?

2. Low Maintenance: With smaller yards and shared walls, townhomes typically require less upkeep. Many communities also offer homeowners' associations (HOAs) that handle exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common areas, allowing residents to enjoy a more carefree lifestyle.?

3. Community Amenities: Townhome developments often feature shared amenities such as parks, playgrounds, and community centers, fostering a sense of community and providing additional recreational options for residents.?

4. Efficient Use of Space: Townhomes are designed to maximize living space, often featuring multiple stories and modern layouts that cater to various lifestyles and preferences.?

Market Trends

The demand for townhomes is on the rise. According to the National Association of Home Builders, townhomes now constitute 17% of the single-family home market, up from 10% in 2009. This shift reflects buyers' growing interest in more affordable and manageable housing options.?

Is a Townhome Right for You?

While townhomes offer numerous benefits, it's essential to consider factors such as shared walls, HOA fees, and community regulations. Assess your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals to determine if a townhome aligns with your needs.

Conclusion

In today's competitive housing market, townhomes present a viable and attractive option for many first-time homebuyers. They combine affordability with modern conveniences, making them worth considering in your home search.

Joe & Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego, CA 92101

619-990-7552

www.parkplacecollective.com

Unlock Commercial Financing with No Credit Score Minimums & 30-Year Fixed Term

Imagine securing commercial financing without the usual roadblocks—no minimum credit score requirements, no short-term balloon payments, and no red tape slowing you down. Whether you're investing in residential rentals, mixed-use properties, multifamily units, retail spaces, warehouses, or automotive properties, we provide fast, flexible funding with a 50% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and fixed 30-year terms.
At The Park Place Collective Group, we understand that your investment potential matters more than your credit score. That’s why our no-minimum-credit-score commercial loans are designed to help investors, business owners, and property developers secure the capital they need—fast. 

Why Choose Our No-Minimum Credit Score Commercial Loan?

✔ No Credit Score Minimum – Unlike traditional lenders, we focus on the property’s value and your investment potential, not your personal credit history.

✔ 30-Year Fixed Terms – No short-term balloon payments or refinancing headaches. Lock in a stable, predictable monthly payment.

✔ 50% Loan-to-Value (LTV) – Borrow up to 50% of the property’s value, providing a solid financing solution for acquisitions or refinancing.

✔ Diverse Property Types – Finance 1-4 unit residential, mixed-use, multifamily, retail, warehouse/industrial, and automotive properties.

✔ Fast Closings – Get your funding quickly to capitalize on investment opportunities without unnecessary delays.

For more information on our commercial loan products contact Joe & Marni Costa and the Park Place Collective Group.

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego,CA 92101

619-990-7552

www.parkplacecollective.com

Mastering Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval to Enhance Your Client Experience

 

In real estate, clarity is key! Learn the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval to confidently guide your clients to their dream homes. Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group.

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Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group would like to explain the difference between the two. 

In the world of real estate, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to helping clients navigate the mortgage process. As a local real estate agent, your clients look to you for guidance, and being well-versed in the nuances of mortgage pre-qualification and pre-approval can enhance their experience significantly. It’s not just about finding a house; it’s about making sure your clients are prepared and confident in their buying journey.

Let’s start by understanding what pre-qualification and pre-approval really mean. While both terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct differences that can impact your clients’ home buying experience.

Pre-qualification is typically the first step in the mortgage process. It’s a basic assessment of a potential buyer's financial situation based on the information they provide. A client can usually complete this step online or over the phone, and it doesn’t require extensive documentation. While pre-qualification gives a general idea of how much a client might be able to borrow, it is not a guarantee. This step is like a quick snapshot of their finances.

On the other hand, pre-approval is a much more thorough process. It involves a deeper dive into the client’s financial background, including verification of income, assets, and credit history. For this step, your clients will need to provide documentation such as W-2s, bank statements, and possibly even tax returns. Once Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group reviews this information, we can provide a pre-approval letter stating the maximum loan amount the client is approved for. This letter carries more weight and shows sellers that the buyer is serious and capable of securing financing.

Understanding these differences is crucial for you as an agent. When you encourage your clients to get pre-approved, you set them up for success. Not only does it give them a clearer idea of their budget, but it also boosts their credibility when making an offer. Sellers often prefer buyers who are pre-approved, as it minimizes the risk of financing falling through. 

Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group can provide your clients with in-depth consultations to help them understand their financial situation better and navigate the pre-approval process with confidence.

Another tip is to use technology to your advantage. Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group offers an online portals that allow clients to upload documents and check their loan status easily. Encourage your clients to utilize these tools, as they can make the process more efficient and less stressful. You can also help them by providing links to these portals or offering assistance in navigating them.

Furthermore, consider the emotional aspect of home buying. For many clients, buying a home is not just a financial decision but an emotional journey. Pre-approval can help alleviate some of the anxiety that comes with purchasing a home. When your clients know they are pre-approved, they can focus on finding the right home instead of worrying about their financing options. Remind them that this step is an investment in their future and can lead to a smoother, more enjoyable buying experience.

Lastly, keep in mind that every client is unique. Some may have straightforward financial situations, while others might have more complex needs. By working closely with Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group mortgage, we can help tailor the pre-approval process to suit each client’s circumstances. This tailored approach not only enhances their experience but also builds trust and sets the foundation for a lasting relationship.

In summary, mastering the differences between pre-qualification and pre-approval is essential for real estate agents looking to elevate their client experience. By fostering a strong relationship with a reputable mortgage company, you can provide your clients with the support and knowledge they need to navigate the home-buying process confidently. Encourage them to seek pre-approval early, educate them on the timelines and documentation necessary, and keep the communication lines open. Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group is here to help.

If you want to dive deeper into how pre-qualification and pre-approval can work for your clients, or if you have specific questions about the mortgage process, don’t hesitate to reach out. Joe and Marni Costa and The Park Place Collective Group are here to support you and your clients every step of the way. Let’s work together to enhance the home-buying experience for everyone involved.

Park Place Collective

402 West Broadway, Suite 400

San Diego, CA 92101

619-990-7552