Thomas J. Nelson

Your Local Guide For San Diego

Meet The Team

Your Local Guide For San Diego

Christine Frushon

Real Estate Professional Consultant at Keys with Christine Brokered by EXP Realty

Thomas J. Nelson

DRE# 01261476

Big Block-LPT Realty

Well, let me tell you, real estate runs deep in my veins. It's like the very foundation of who I am. You see, it's a family affair—my folks, my grandparents, they were all in the game, making deals, managing properties. It was like breathing for us, you know?

Now, my grandma Frances, she was the one who got me started on this journey. She'd take me along to her deals, teaching me the ropes from a young age. And then there was grandpa Al, a real property guru. He showed me the ropes of real estate investing and even got me hands-on with some light construction work. Painting, electrical, plumbing—you name it, I was there, learning the ropes.

But life's a funny old thing, isn't it? While I was knee-deep in property management, another passion came calling: music. Now, I may not be the next Elvis, but I sure can hold my own with a guitar or drums. But it was when I discovered the magic of mixing music that things really took off. Parties turned into gigs, gigs turned into paid gigs, and before I knew it, I was running my own music business at the ripe old age of nineteen.

For three decades, I was the heart and soul behind Nelson-Entertainment, a Mobile DJ & Wedding Event planning company. What began as a simple hobby blossomed into a thriving business, and I had the privilege of orchestrating over 2000 weddings and countless other events. From humble beginnings, I learned invaluable lessons about entrepreneurship and the art of service.

But life had more in store for me. Ten years into my DJ career, I joined forces with my mother in the real estate business. Watching her navigate the industry, from land acquisition to home construction, was an education in itself. She didn't just sell homes; she cultivated genuine connections with her clients, becoming more than just their REALTOR®—she was their trusted confidante.

Inspired by her example and the arrival of my son, Wyatt, I embarked on my own real estate journey. Balancing my DJ gigs and property management duties, I laid the foundation for my fledgling real estate business. In 2003, my wife Ailina and I made the leap to San Diego, drawn by its inviting climate and vibrant community. La Jolla stole our hearts, offering the perfect backdrop for our new chapter.

Joining forces with Big Block Realty was a game-changer. Surrounded by like-minded professionals, I found a home where my values and vision aligned seamlessly. With access to top-notch training and support, I'm constantly honing my skills to better serve my clients.

I don't take your trust for granted. Each transaction is an opportunity to exceed your expectations and earn your satisfaction. Whether you're buying or selling, I'm here to guide you through every step of the process. And if you know someone in need of real estate expertise, don't hesitate to send them my way—I'll ensure they receive the same level of care and attention.

In the world of real estate, results matter. With me by your side, you can rest assured that your goals are my top priority. Let's embark on this journey together and turn your real estate dreams into reality.

It's A Good Life!

Thomas

Service Areas

San Diego

Service Areas

San Diego

  • San Diego

  • EXP Relocation Certification

  • EXP REO Certification

  • AHRN Certified Military Real Estate Agent

Recent Activity

Good Credit Beats Cash

Buying A Home: Beef Up Your Credit Score

January 29, 20252 min read

Buying A Home: Beef Up Your Credit Score and Manage It Wisely

While cash may seem like king, especially for homebuyers, effective credit management holds more value in the long run. Cash buyers often lowball, assuming their cash has greater worth. While cash transactions eliminate some contingencies, a well-priced home and a qualified buyer can address these just as effectively. Principle buyers often can out negotiate cash investors because homeowners have longfer to recoup their investment and build equity than cash investors do.

Where’s The Beef in Credit Management?

Start by using your credit cards consistently. Keep long-held accounts open and maintain low or zero balances. The key is to make purchases and promptly pay them off, demonstrating responsible credit use and enhancing your score over time. Aim to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your available limit and avoid closing old accounts, as a longer credit history benefits your score. These steps will strengthen your financial profile.

Important: Avoid Using Credit Once Preapproved for a Loan or in Escrow (Under Contract)

Once in escrow, it's crucial to maintain financial stability for a smooth closing process. Here’s why avoiding credit use during this period is essential:

  1. Loan Qualification: Lenders re-evaluate your financial status before closing. New credit inquiries can affect your debt-to-income ratio, risking loan approval.

  2. Credit Score Impact: Applying for new credit can temporarily lower your score, potentially affecting interest rates or loan approval.

  3. Additional Debt Concerns: New debts increase obligations and could imply you can’t afford the mortgage payments. Avoid buying or leasing furniture, appliances, or new cars. Do not co-sign loans during this period.

  4. Changes in Loan Terms: Financial changes may prompt lenders to adjust loan terms, possibly resulting in higher interest rates or less favorable conditions.

  5. Underwriting Red Flags: New credit activity may signal instability, leading to more investigation or loan denial.

  6. Delays in Closing: Complications from credit changes can delay closing, as lenders might need time to reassess.

Avoid Mistakes

To avoid these issues:

  • Refrain from significant financial changes or large purchases (leases) until your home purchase is complete. No new cars, furniture, appliances, or new lines of credit.

  • Once preapproved for a loan, consult your lender for any purchases over $250.

  • Additionally, avoid changing jobs or losing employment.

  • Postpone any out-of-town trips, if possible, while house hunting or in escrow.

Be sure to check in with your lender and REALTOR® since they will properly guide you!

credit scoregood creditdoes and don'tslendingmortgagepre-approvalreal estate
Thomas J. Nelson is a published author, professional keynote speaker and residential REALTOR® in San Diego, CA.

Thomas J. Nelson

Thomas J. Nelson is a published author, professional keynote speaker and residential REALTOR® in San Diego, CA.

Back to Blog
Good Credit Beats Cash

Buying A Home: Beef Up Your Credit Score

January 29, 20252 min read

Buying A Home: Beef Up Your Credit Score and Manage It Wisely

While cash may seem like king, especially for homebuyers, effective credit management holds more value in the long run. Cash buyers often lowball, assuming their cash has greater worth. While cash transactions eliminate some contingencies, a well-priced home and a qualified buyer can address these just as effectively. Principle buyers often can out negotiate cash investors because homeowners have longfer to recoup their investment and build equity than cash investors do.

Where’s The Beef in Credit Management?

Start by using your credit cards consistently. Keep long-held accounts open and maintain low or zero balances. The key is to make purchases and promptly pay them off, demonstrating responsible credit use and enhancing your score over time. Aim to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your available limit and avoid closing old accounts, as a longer credit history benefits your score. These steps will strengthen your financial profile.

Important: Avoid Using Credit Once Preapproved for a Loan or in Escrow (Under Contract)

Once in escrow, it's crucial to maintain financial stability for a smooth closing process. Here’s why avoiding credit use during this period is essential:

  1. Loan Qualification: Lenders re-evaluate your financial status before closing. New credit inquiries can affect your debt-to-income ratio, risking loan approval.

  2. Credit Score Impact: Applying for new credit can temporarily lower your score, potentially affecting interest rates or loan approval.

  3. Additional Debt Concerns: New debts increase obligations and could imply you can’t afford the mortgage payments. Avoid buying or leasing furniture, appliances, or new cars. Do not co-sign loans during this period.

  4. Changes in Loan Terms: Financial changes may prompt lenders to adjust loan terms, possibly resulting in higher interest rates or less favorable conditions.

  5. Underwriting Red Flags: New credit activity may signal instability, leading to more investigation or loan denial.

  6. Delays in Closing: Complications from credit changes can delay closing, as lenders might need time to reassess.

Avoid Mistakes

To avoid these issues:

  • Refrain from significant financial changes or large purchases (leases) until your home purchase is complete. No new cars, furniture, appliances, or new lines of credit.

  • Once preapproved for a loan, consult your lender for any purchases over $250.

  • Additionally, avoid changing jobs or losing employment.

  • Postpone any out-of-town trips, if possible, while house hunting or in escrow.

Be sure to check in with your lender and REALTOR® since they will properly guide you!

credit scoregood creditdoes and don'tslendingmortgagepre-approvalreal estate
blog author image

Thomas J. Nelson

Thomas J. Nelson is a published author, professional keynote speaker and residential REALTOR® in San Diego, CA.

Back to Blog

Testimonials

Wow! negotiated a $400K price reduction on a listing that had already been reduced by $300K!! If you want a skilled negotiator on your side, she’s your girl.

- Carl

is an amazing person and fantastic Real Estate professional. Her marketing skills are second to none, if you are in need of selling or buying a home, she is your choice!

– Duane

and her team are amazing to work with! They go above and beyond with help and communication, and so much fun as well.

– Kristen

was amazing to work with! She made the whole process look so easy. Thank you for all of your hard work.

- Celene

It was my pleasure working with . She is very professional and knowledgeable in the real estate field.

– Natalia

is a phenomenal agent. She made the home buying process simple and I highly recommend her!

– Shronda

https://storage.googleapis.com/msgsndr/LGvMHSpjamZ678AUgrJY/media/65ed25120013ad8189925cc4.jpeg

#58BB47

#0000FF

https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d429155.3376406009!2d-117.43861812897623!3d32.82469764779043!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80d9530fad921e4b%3A0xd3a21fdfd15df79!2sSan%20Diego%2C%20CA%2C%20USA!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sph!4v1710098235283!5m2!1sen!2sph

Thank you for visiting

San Diego

Contact Info

Address

8895 Towne Centre Dr. Ste 105 PMB 436, San Diego, CA 92122-5542

Phone

+18582328722

Email

Location

Redondo Beach, CA, USA

https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d429155.3376406009!2d-117.43861812897623!3d32.82469764779043!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x80d9530fad921e4b%3A0xd3a21fdfd15df79!2sSan%20Diego%2C%20CA%2C%20USA!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sph!4v1710098235283!5m2!1sen!2sph

All Content ©
2025 Thomas J. Nelson's Account . All Rights Reserved.