berkeley: Housing prices in the East Bay (Early October 2008) - 10/07/08 05:22 PM
Here is a breakdown of homes available in our local towns. The data reflects today October 7th, 2008. The data is broken down to the number of homes broken down into pricing catagories and the number of homes in each catagory.
This number reflects condos, townhouses and detached single family homes. This does not include the … (0 comments)
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berkeley: SELL US YOUR HOUSE TONIGHT - 10/07/08 09:21 AM
Dear Friend,
Sell Us Your House Tonight !!!WE MAY POSSIBLY BUY YOUR HOUSE NOW !! CASH - FOR WHAT YOU OWE WITHIN THE NEXT 48 HOURS!!WHEN IT FITS OUR SIMPLE PROGRAM!!Please Update Your Listing With Us Sell Your House To Us In 7 Days or Less! http//www.SCHomeBuyers.net < PRESS HERE TO SEE … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Final Approval of the "Wow" Idea By The City of Berkley - 10/05/08 12:20 PM
A month ago I wrote a post about a solar energy idea that was proposed by the city of Berkeley to pioneer an affordable solar energy program to it's citizens. I had first read about this as an editorial in the newspaper and the consumer that brought it forth was suggesting … (4 comments)
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berkeley: Denver 2Q 2008 Home Price Trends - 09/30/08 11:09 PM
Recap of First Half 2008 Home Price Performance By Lon Welsh and Terry Wenze, Your Castle Real Estate. The average home price in Metro Denver increased +2% in the full year 2005 to the full year 2006. Comparing 2006 to 2007, the average home price across the metro dropped 3%, … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Housing prices in the East Bay (Early September 2008) - 09/03/08 10:28 AM
Here is a breakdown of homes available in our local towns. The data reflects today September 3rd, 2008. The data is broken down to the number of homes broken down into pricing catagories and the number of homes in each catagory.
This number reflects condos, townhouses and detached single family homes. This does not include the … (0 comments)
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berkeley: A stager can help you after your move also - 08/24/08 01:26 PM
Did you know that most stagers offer a service to assist you in setting up your new residence to not only look like a model home but to also function for everyday living?
Yes it's true.
Ask your Realtor to recommend their stager to help you move into and set up … (0 comments)
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berkeley: 421 VIRGINIA, Berkeley, NJ 08721 - 08/23/08 03:33 PM
GREAT COLONIAL ON QUIET STREET AND LARGE PRIVATE LOT. HOME IS IN MINT CONDITION- BASEMENT IS PARTIALLY FINISHED.
More info at http://www.livingalongtheshore.com/JS3026211
… (0 comments)
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berkeley: Clarksburg: It's a great place to start - 08/16/08 03:30 PM
When I first started my research into the architecture of William Raymond Yelland. I remember getting the archive collection listing of properties designed by W. R. Yelland. One thing stands out right away is that a large number of homes in the archives at UC Berkeley that are located in Clarksburg.
… (0 comments)
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berkeley: Prudential Oakland area open houses for Sunday August 17th, 2008 - 08/16/08 01:09 PM
The following is a listing of open houses for Sunday 8/17/2008 from our group of Prudential California Realty offices in the Oakland Area. Grand Lake Office, Montclair Office and Piedmont Avenue Offices.
Give me a call if you miss any of these properties and I would be more than happy to … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Alameda County Transfer Tax - 08/09/08 02:31 AM
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berkeley: Housing prices in the East Bay (Early August 2008) - 08/04/08 02:40 PM
Here is a breakdown of homes available in our local towns. The data reflects today August 4th, 2008. The data is broken down to the number of homes broken down into pricing catagories and the number of homes in each catagory.
This number reflects condos, townhouses and detached single family homes. This does not include … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Here is a study of homes sold by city in the East Bay - 07/28/08 02:49 PM
The following is a list of properties sold between 6/28/2009 and 7/28/2008 that are in sold status on the local MLS reports. I went through and searched each city to show you that properties are indeed selling. So get your finances in order and purchase before all the good properties are … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Here is a study of homes pending by city in the East Bay - 07/26/08 02:58 PM
The following is a list of properties as of 7/26/2008 that are in pending status on the local MLS reports. I went through and searched each city to show you that properties are indeed selling. So get your finances in order and purchase before all the good properties are gobbled up. … (0 comments)
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berkeley: East Bay Market Update - 07/08/08 10:56 AM
Despite unsettling events in the housing and mortgage markets as recently as today, the East Bay appears to be doing better than much of the rest of the state and much of the country, according to data from a variety of sources. Berkeley prices are about 5 percent below the $829,000 … (2 comments)
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berkeley: Housing prices in the East Bay (Early July 2008) - 07/03/08 01:14 PM
Here is a breakdown of homes available in our local towns. The data reflects today July 3rd, 2008. The data is broken down to the number of homes broken down into pricing catagories and the number of homes in each catagory.
This number reflects condos, townhouses and detached single family homes. This does not include … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Charleston, Berkeley & Dorchester County, SC - Single Family Homes - Market Statistics - 06/28/08 02:27 PM
Charleston County - Single Family Homes
… (0 comments)
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berkeley: Selling a Home is Simple but Not Always Easy - 06/26/08 12:48 PM
The media love to tell us about the real estate market --- housing bubbles inflating and just-about-to-burst looming market corrections, seasonal cycles, up and down trends --- but usually leave out the simple essentials of selling a home anywhere, even in the Bay Area. Those essentials are: prepare well, present … (1 comments)
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berkeley: South Carolina Declining Markets - 06/12/08 09:51 AM
We just received an announcement that said our primary investor has declared the South Carolina counties of Dorchester, Charleston, Berkeley and Spartanburg to be "at risk" counties...at risk of declining values. What does this mean? It means more down payment will be required on conventional loans. Maximum financing will be 90% LTV on … (4 comments)
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berkeley: Why Choose a Seniors Real Estate Specialist? - 06/06/08 04:45 PM
The needs of senior home sellers and buyers are different from those of younger home sellers and buyers. For those selling their long term homes, there are frequently emotional issues. It is hard for them to think about moving away from the place that has been so important to them … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Housing prices in the East Bay - 04/28/08 05:56 PM
Here is a breakdown of homes available in our local towns. The data reflects today April 28th, 2008. The data is broken down to the number of homes broken down into pricing catagories and the number of homes in each catagory.
This number reflects condos, townhouses and detached single family homes. This does not include the … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Why there will always be buyers in beautiful Berkeley and environs - 04/28/08 02:03 AM
A month ago we had a jaw-dropping example of over-bidding in what the mass media still describes as a “buyers’ market.” A two-bedroom, one-bath home in the desirable, hip Oakland neighborhood called Rockridge, listed for $799K had received 17 offers. It sold this week for $930K, 16% over list. This … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Help Me Help You--Part Two - 04/22/08 05:33 PM
Last time, I blogged about what sellers can do to "help me, help you" --and now it is the buyer's turn. I'm going to be doing a lot of work researching properties, putting together tours for us, creating offers, negotiations, scheduling inspections, and more. And, there is a lot that buyers … (2 comments)
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berkeley: Trying to find someone to restore the lighting fixtures in my parent's home. - 04/18/08 10:59 PM
I just sent of an email to Mark at Omega Salvage's upscale lighting and fixture store Omega Too. I stopped into their Berkeley storefront the other day and talked to him about the possibility of restoring the lighting fixtures in my parent's San Leandro home. I started to describe to him that the Chandeliers were made of cast … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Help Me Help You--Part One - 04/18/08 11:20 AM
There is that great line in the movie Jerry Maguire where sports agent Jerry pleads with his only client Rod Tidwell to do things that will help him be a better agent on Rod's behalf. He tells him "Help me help you!" Well, as a real estate agent, I often have … (3 comments)
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berkeley: The Original Theta Chi Chapter House near UC Berkeley by W.R. Yelland - 04/17/08 06:05 PM
I have been looking long for this photo of the original Theta Chi Chapter House at U.C. Berkeley. This was the one designed by William Raymond Yelland. Yelland was the designer for Normandy Village and Beckett's Irish Pub.
It was located on LeConte just North of the campus near Normandy Village. It was torn down in order … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Choosing a Mortgage Broker - 04/16/08 03:13 PM
When you are getting ready to buy a home, one of the toughest decisions is choosing a mortgage broker to work with. This is especially true in today's rocky mortgage market where you don't know who to trust. These are confusing times, so you need to make sure that you are … (5 comments)
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berkeley: The Top East Bay Restaurants - 04/08/08 04:15 PM
The San Francisco Chronicle just came out with its annual list of the Top 100 restaurants in the Bay Area. Of course, most are in The City itself, but they included 14 East Bay restaurants. Of the 14, several are old favorites of mine and others are now on my list … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Lock Bumping--Home Security Concern or Urban Legend? - 04/08/08 11:55 AM
I've recently come across the phenomenon of "lock bumping" (also known as "key bumping") as a method used by thieves to break into locks. At our friendly, local locksmith, they even had handouts about lock bumping and what you can do about it. A quick internet search demonstrated, however, that it … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Kensington Pharmacy and Inn Kensington a Yelland Building - 04/07/08 10:41 PM
I was actually surprised the other day when co-worker and fellow agent Ron Palmer brought into the office a copy of the Mark Wilson Book A Living Legacy: walking tours of East Bay Architecture. I looked in the index and looked up my favorite architect William Raymond Yelland.
The usual suspects were … (6 comments)
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berkeley: Bee Renovated hits a "Home Run" - 04/03/08 02:48 PM
A while ago I blogged about how W.R. Yelland's very own home which was a foreclosed property and in dire need of someone to rescue it from it's very distressed state. The home located at 829 Coventry in Kensington, done in Cape Cod style which was rare for Yelland. He was … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Moving Day Tips - 04/02/08 05:58 PM
Today is the big day--moving day--are you ready? Moving is one of the most stressful things a person can endure. But, some planning ahead can help make things go smoother.Before the big day, make sure you have taken care of changing your utilities, changing your bank accounts, and submitting an address … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Spring Cleaning Tips - 04/01/08 03:16 PM
Spring has sprung, so let's get that house of yours looking beautiful for that first gathering or party of the season! I'm not talking about vacuuming and doing the dishes. I'm talking about those little things you always think you should do someday.
First of all, get yourself organized and de-clutter … (0 comments)
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berkeley: My Favorite Real Estate Statistics - 03/28/08 03:40 PM
The media is full of information and reports and statistics and projections and forecasts about the real estate market. And, it can get a little confusing. Is it a crisis or a correction? A meltdown or a slowdown? Is it a good time to buy or a bad time to sell? … (6 comments)
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berkeley: About Colorado - 03/22/08 01:44 AM
The Berkeley area is truly a gem of Denver neighborhoods.
Unofficially, its boundaries are I-70 to the North, 38Th Ave to the South, Federal Blvd. to the East and Sheridan Blvd. to the West.
This neighborhood is home to many Denver landmarks including among others, the turn of the century Lakeside … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Save Money by Going Green - 03/21/08 01:12 PM
I like to check in from time to time with ways to go green, and this month I will be mailing to my clients a list of helpful tips on ways to save money by going green. Yet another reason that going green is great is because it appeals to both … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Home Design Deals in the East Bay - 03/19/08 04:27 PM
Well, I'm back from a little break. This time we hit the Rhine River from Amsterdam to Frankfurt with stops in Dusseldorf, Cologne and more. Now, back to the real estate market...and real estate blogging!I love Ikea as much as the next person, but sometimes you need something a little different. … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Berkeley Real Estate Market Stats - 03/13/08 09:37 PM
Zillow has just published a report on the home values for Berkeley- Their headline: Zillow Buzz: Berkeley home values increased by 5 percent. Check it out. Keep in mind this company has some serious legal problems for undervaluing property in some locations. In reading through this report, it is published by … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Green Home Requirement in San Mateo County - 02/29/08 11:11 AM
Here in the Bay Area, it’s not just Berkeley who’s showing Green Big Brother mentality. Green home building will be required from all new homes built in the unincorporated region of San Mateo County. The county supes last week voted to add sweeping green regulations to green construction requirements to take … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Countrywide Foreclosures in Oakland - 02/27/08 12:45 PM
As I've written about before, a lot of people still ask me about buying foreclosures. Due to the media's coverage of real estate market and the sub-prime fallout, there is a belief that there are tons of foreclosure deals out there just waiting to be snapped up. But think again. The … (1 comments)
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berkeley: The Inspection Contingency Period - 02/26/08 05:06 PM
So, you've made an offer on a home and it has been accepted. Congratulations! Within the escrow period, there is the inspection contingency period for you to look into all of the nooks and crannies of the house to make sure it is the perfect home for you. And, if you … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Who doesn't know about the best pizza EVER?! - 02/24/08 12:16 AM
So, I was posting a response to Kathleen Lordbock's blog about Favorite Comfort foods and realized that I'd like to start a post about one of my favorite places to eat!
They have 3 locations in the East Bay Area (Oakland, Berkeley and San Ramon) and I am MADLY in love with … (13 comments)
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berkeley: The ABCs of PMI - 02/20/08 01:39 PM
With all of the seismic changes happening in the mortgage markets, one aspect to keep in mind is PMI, aka Private Mortgage Insurance. PMI is when you buy insurance to cover your lender (not you) because you are taking out a loan deemed to be riskier than most.PMI is usually needed … (2 comments)
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berkeley: Rare Clear Span Commercial Building With New Front Developement Potential - 02/18/08 03:13 AM
Commercial Building For Sale
3201 SHATTUCK AVE BERKELEY, CA
PREMISES: Approx. 7,000 RSF
• Strong concrete floor
• Bow truss roof
• Clear span
• Favorable zoning that allows mixed-use for residential/commercial
• High visibility corner location
• Close to Ashby Avenue
RATE: $1,950,000.00
• SBA Financing Available
• Lease also considered
For more information please contact:
HANS HANSSON
415.765.6897
hans@starboardnet.com
… (0 comments)
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berkeley: Below Market Rate Condomimiums - 02/13/08 01:43 PM
One terrific option for first time homebuyers in any market is the purchase of a "below market rate" condominium. These are generally city-run programs to provide affordable entry to the real estate market for low and moderate income earners, especially in areas where housing prices can be high.Every program is different, … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Why I Haven't Blogged in Two Weeks... - 02/12/08 03:28 PM
Why haven't I blogged in two weeks? Because I'm so busy with my clients! They say the market is busting, but I am not seeing too much evidence of that in our market. This just goes to show you that the real estate market is truly a neighborhood-by-neighborhood market.Here in Berkeley, … (4 comments)
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berkeley: $1,050,000 is Less Than $625,000 - 02/09/08 04:05 PM
Assuming you have $250,000 for a downpayment (not including closing costs), it is less expensive to buy this $1,050,000 fourplex to owner-occupy than it is to buy a comparable single family home. How?
Compare 2334 Curtis Street in Berkeley, a multi-unit residential income property to a 2 -3 Bedroom/2 Ba … (0 comments)
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berkeley: The Highly Touted Jack London Square Revival - 01/31/08 04:47 PM
Living in the East Bay for the last 15+ years, it seems like the powers that be are always talking about a revival of Jack London Square. And, it looks like it might actually be on the verge of happening!First, there is the highly anticipated California Harvest Hall, which is planned … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Keep Renting? Or Buy? How About a Lease Option! - 01/28/08 05:27 PM
As most people are now realizing, this is a terrific buyer's market--possibly the best buyer's market in over a decade. With home prices staying steady and even going down in parts of the Bay Area, now is a great time for first time homebuyers to to make a reasonable entry into … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Berkeley Architectural Rarity - 01/26/08 05:43 PM
SOLD
It is an architectural rarity in Berkeley to see such a well-preserved and tastefully updated half-timbered and high-peaked Colonial Revival property. This one built in 1911 by the carpenter Arne Lundgren. Berkeley’s Architectural Heritage Association (BAHA) even produced a little write up on this one.
At some unknown point … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Getting Ready for Tax Season--Part 2 - 01/24/08 01:24 PM
Yesterday, I blogged about getting ready for tax season by helping you decide whether to hire a CPA or do it yourself. Today, I'll provide some tips on getting yourself organized to make your work go smoothly. Of course, everyone's tax situation is different, but these are some basics to … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Getting Ready for Tax Season--Part 1 - 01/23/08 04:41 PM
Each month, I send my regular clients a selection of tips and advice on real estate, home ownership, finances and other life issues. This month, we focus on getting ready for tax season. Today in the blog, I will look at whether you should hire a CPA or do your … (2 comments)
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berkeley: Pacific Union and Market Share - 01/21/08 06:54 PM
Who sells more Piedmont real estate? You may be surprised! In 2007, for homes selling above $1 million (the average sale price is about $1.5 million), Pacific Union closed more seller-side transactions (volume and total sales) than did The Grubb Company (and that doesn't include my 2007 activity with Prudential!). Moreover, … (0 comments)
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berkeley: The Candidates on The Housing Market - 01/16/08 06:21 PM
Last night, I was watching the Democratic Presidential Debate, and they discussed the topic of the subprime mortgage meltdown and the housing market. If my memory is correct, this was the first time I had seen the topic discussed in depth at any of the presidential primary debates. So, it made … (4 comments)
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berkeley: New Construction Waterfront with Bay Views - 01/16/08 11:13 AM
… (1 comments)
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berkeley: What is a Reverse Mortgage? - 01/15/08 03:13 PM
More and more people are becoming curious about reverse mortgages, and I am seeing an increase in coverage about them. I even see banks hanging big banners promoting their reverse mortgages to lure in new customers. But what are they, and are they right for you?If you are 62 or older … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Berkeley, CA - Down Payment Assistance and First Time Home Buyer Programs - 01/13/08 08:09 PM
So you are looking to buy a home in Berkeley. In this eddition of Golden Nuggets we will take a look at Down Payment Assistance and First Time Home Buyer programs in the Alameda County, CA City of Berkeley. There is $67,000 in Down Payment Assistance available for the purchase of your … (0 comments)
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berkeley: "Corner Unit in Circular Building" - 01/11/08 02:27 PM
Okay, time for a few laughs on a Friday. One thing I love about being a Realtor is seeing all the ridiculous wording to describe less-than-attractive properties. You know the ones...the listings that describe a house as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece and it turns out to be the most ordinary house … (2 comments)
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berkeley: The Basics of California Real Estate Withholding - 01/10/08 02:49 PM
January means tax season is upon us, and there is one aspect of real estate than can be quite confusing when it comes to filing your taxes. That is the California Real Estate Withholding requirements. Legally, sellers of real estate owe taxes on the sale, but it is a complicated process … (2 comments)
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berkeley: Feng Shui Your Way into 2008 - 01/09/08 11:46 AM
Want to start the year off in a peaceful, calming manner? Who doesn't after several weeks of hectic holidays? Implementing some basic tips from the school of Feng Shui is a great way to begin 2008 surrounded by harmony.I'm sure you have heard of Feng Shui, so you probably know that … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Bay Area Solar Rebates - 01/04/08 01:43 PM
Normally, we live for the present. We’re not about events, deals, and projects that will hopefully start sometime in the future. We’re not big fans of Chevrolet announcing that in three years they plan to unveil the electric powered car the Volt. That’s great; in three years one of us may … (3 comments)
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berkeley: HOAs and Special Assessments - 01/02/08 05:01 PM
Buying a condominium can be such a great deal and a very affordable way to enter the housing market. But, always look beyond the mortgage at your HOA dues and special assessments, making sure to figure them in to your real estate investment.Now most people know that you have to pay … (2 comments)
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berkeley: Where's my high school buddy Liz R.? - 12/26/07 03:43 PM
I'll put this out the Internet.
Here's a blog posting for the San Leandro Group.
Back in early 1980s when I was attending San Leandro high school, one of my best friends was Liz R. Over 25 years later little does she know that she holds the key to confirming that … (4 comments)
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berkeley: The New "Cost vs. Value" Report for the Bay Area - 12/20/07 06:24 PM
You just know that an updated bathroom would help your house sell, but you wonder if you will be able to recoup the costs of the renovation. I hear this question, and others like it, all the time from sellers. That is why the annual "Cost vs. Value" report is so … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Normandy Village, Berkeley California - 12/19/07 06:27 PM
This is one of my favorite places. Believe it or not this is Berkeley California and not Normandy France. This was originally an apartment complex designed by William Raymond Yelland for Col. Jack Thornburg (A Student at U.C. Berkeley) after World War i.The original concept would have been to have had … (4 comments)
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berkeley: McCormack's Guides - 12/19/07 06:07 PM
If you have been in the real estate business for awhile, you might remember the McCormack's Guides. These are terrific little books with everything you could possibly want to know about a geographic area, and more. And, I mean EVERYTHING, from school scores to history to the local zeitgeist. All of … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Quick Trips Around the Bay - 12/14/07 03:20 PM
This holiday season, take some time out to have a little adventure with your family and enjoy all that the Bay Area has to offer. If you are here in the East Bay, plan some day trips to get out and enjoy something new. Set a destination and let the day … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Methods of Holding Title - 12/11/07 06:50 PM
Okay, students, time once again for a little Real Estate 101. Today's topic is methods of holding title. Many people begin by wondering, "What does holding title mean?" Well, when you own a house, there are many ways to own it, or, in other words, many ways to have the title … (0 comments)
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berkeley: A Little Perspective on Today's Market - 12/10/07 05:59 PM
I just returned from Buffini & Company's two-day Turning Point real estate seminar in Sacramento, and wanted to share some of the statistics and information on the real estate market that Brian discussed. I always get so much out of these seminars, and love to share the information.Newspapers and the cable news networks continue … (4 comments)
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berkeley: The East Bay's New "Green Corridor" - 12/05/07 02:06 PM
Four major East Bay cities--Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville and Richmond--have announced that they will work together to create what they call the "Green Corridor," a business region comparable to the Silicon Valley that will focus on Green technologies and solutions. This is a terrific commitment that should greatly benefit the local economy … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Berkeley's Golden Duplex Rule - 12/04/07 06:41 PM
Every town has obscure laws that can be confusing, and one to be aware of in Berkeley is the "Golden Duplex" rule. If you are buying a duplex with tenants in Berkeley, or if you are a tenant in a duplex that is being sold, it would be wise to find … (0 comments)
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berkeley: further explorations into Yelland - 12/03/07 04:39 PM
okay....
so where did I leave off? Clarksburg California in the Sacramento Delta. Great little town. So there I am in this little town and I am surrounded by homes that look like they would fit onto my street back in San Leandro. Some of the homes even appear to share some … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Getting Ready to Move - 12/03/07 04:05 PM
So, you have sold your house and bought another one. You thought that was challenging, but now comes the hard part--actually moving all of your stuff from one home to another. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, moving has the potential to be one of the most … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Rumor Control--Foreclosures - 11/28/07 05:36 PM
A few weeks ago, I wrote a blog entry on the basics of the foreclosure process. With so much in the media about foreclosures almost every day, people have a lot of questions about foreclosures and how they work.In addition to sharing this information, I would also like to help put … (4 comments)
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berkeley: Guide to East Bay Farmer's Markets - 11/27/07 03:45 PM
If you live in the East Bay and live for fresh locally-grown produce, then you are in luck. There are more Farmer's Markets in our region than you could ever believe. You can get fresh lettuces and peppers and berries and oranges and almost anything your heart desires at a local … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Safety Measures for New Homeowners - 11/26/07 05:23 PM
Do you consult your buyers on how to make their new homes as safe as possible?
Oh, it is so exciting to move into your new home. So much new space to explore and discover. Buying and arranging new furniture and decor. Having your friends and family over to see the new … (1 comments)
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berkeley: 2007 Toy Drive for Toys for Tots - 11/21/07 04:07 PM
Join Me and Lawton Associates in supporting the annual Toys for Tots drive to help gather toys this holiday season for underprivileged boys and girls. Just bring an unwrapped toy (or 2 or 3 toys!) to the Lawton Associates office in Rockridge, and then join us for holiday treats. We will … (0 comments)
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berkeley: If it is a Buyer's Market, Why Aren't They Buying? - 11/19/07 02:02 PM
Everyone keeps saying that it is a buyer's market. And, it sure looks like one. There is a lot of inventory on the market, sellers are dropping their prices, and good loans are still available. Well, someone better tell the buyers that it is a buyer's market, because a lot of … (5 comments)
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berkeley: It is the Market...not the Marketing - 11/16/07 05:44 PM
As the market continues to correct itself after these turbulent months, most houses are taking longer to sell. It is a good time to remember that in most cases, it is the market, not the marketing.Many sellers are still in denial that their house won't cause a bidding war. They still … (6 comments)
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berkeley: Bay Area Oil Spill~How You Can Help - 11/09/07 01:19 PM
Almost 60,000 gallons of oil have spilled in the bay, after a large container ship scraped up against one of the Bay Bridge towers. Most beaches are closed. Surfers have been getting covered in oil, and even getting sick. Waterfowl and other wildlife are being injured and killed by the spill. … (4 comments)
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berkeley: "You Gotta Spend Money to Make Money" - 11/09/07 11:29 AM
Remember the old adage that you have to spend money to make money? Well, it certainly is true if you are planning to sell your home, especially in this market. They key word there is "planning". If you plan ahead, you will have a better sense of the scope of work … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Berkeley Solar Update--City Pays & You Benefit - 11/07/07 02:02 PM
As an update to yesterday's post about Getting Started Going Green in the East Bay, the City of Berkeley has just made it a lot easier and more affordable to add solar power to your home. Here are the details.Basically, the Berkeley City Council has approved a financing plan in which … (1 comments)
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berkeley: Getting Started Going Green in the East Bay - 11/06/07 05:08 PM
Time to look at the Greening of America once again from a real estate point of view. I get the sense that a lot of people really want to get started on making their homes and lives MORE green, but don't know how to move beyond basic recycling and/or using public … (1 comments)
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berkeley: From Granite to Soapstone--A Look at Countertops - 11/01/07 03:20 PM
Granite countertops have been all the rage in real estate and interior design the last few years. You would recognize its speckled brown look, and granite is a terrific material for countertops, but there are many types of stone available for use as countertops.Countertops have become one of the first details … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Ghost Busting Tips - 10/31/07 11:38 AM
In all seriousness, and in the spirit of Halloween, it is time to share some ghost busting tips. As a real estate agent, we have to deal with all aspects of homes and the needs of homeowners. And, sometimes, a homeowner might believe that their home might be inhabited by a … (4 comments)
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berkeley: The Tax Advantage of Home Ownership - 10/29/07 06:00 PM
We all know that real estate and home ownership can be a terrific investment, and one reason for that is because there are many tax advantages to home ownership. So while you are building equity for the future, you can also get some nice tax savings in the present. A nice … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Yes, You Do Need a Home Warranty - 10/26/07 07:23 PM
A lot of new homeowners get confused on the differences between a homeowners hazard insurance policy and a home warranty plan. And, many think that a warranty may not be necessary, assuming that they are like those questionable extended warranties they offer you on electronics and small appliances. Well, let me … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Computer & Electronics Recycling - 10/24/07 01:22 PM
Time for another GREEN update. One of the toughest things to Reduce/Reuse/Recycle is old computers and other electronic items. Well, I just discovered a terrific resource in Berkeley that should take care of all of your needs--the Alameda County Computer Resource Center. Even if you aren't in the area, they can still help … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Another Look at the MMAP - 10/23/07 03:10 PM
Normally, I try very hard not to repeat myself on this blog, but I think the MMAP program is worth another look right now. First, it is one of the most viewed pages on my blog and I get asked about it quite a bit. Second, with the recent changes in … (2 comments)
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berkeley: First Annual City Solar Awards - 10/19/07 12:08 PM
It wasn’t exactly the Oscars or even the mostly defunct Bammies but the solarati rolled down the green carpet for the First Annual City Solar Awards to pick up their awards (not sure what they are called) for Bay Area cities with the largest number of Solar Homes and Businesses.
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berkeley: 2 Weeks to Halloween - 10/17/07 05:34 PM
Two weeks from tonight, I will be handing out candy to all the kids in the neighborhood. So, it is time to start getting ready for Halloween. See, we don't have to talk real estate 24 hours a day! I thought I'd share some pumpkin carving tips and ideas, and direct … (4 comments)
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berkeley: Berkeley Landmarks - 10/16/07 06:20 PM
Did you know that Berkeley has designated over 300 buildings as architecturally important? That is a lot! I wanted to make a smaller list of some my favorites--some that are on the list and some that may be there someday.The Fish House--This elaborate Victorian was built in 1889 and is covered … (0 comments)
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berkeley: The Steps of a Foreclosure - 10/16/07 01:15 PM
After last week's post about short sales, it begs the question about what the difference is between a short sale and a foreclosure. And, with all the media attention to the rise in foreclosures, especially here in the Bay Area, I thought it would be helpful to look at the steps … (2 comments)
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berkeley: So, What is a Short Sale? - 10/10/07 03:35 PM
In this changing real estate market, everyone is talking about "short sales," but the regular consumer might be left wondering what exactly a short sale is. While we Realtors know all about them, this is something every homebuyer on the market should be aware of. So, here is a quick introduction … (3 comments)
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berkeley: This home is everything you are looking for. 1/2 acre in Pinewald. - 10/10/07 01:32 PM
This home is everything you are looking for. 1/2 acre in Pinewald. Custom red oak flooring through-out 1st. flr and H.W. flooring in bedrooms. Gorgeous gourmet EIK w/island is truly amazing has wine ref., T.V., prep sink, cherry cabinets, pantry and more. Finished basement,Deck,built-pool,stamped concrete patio,deck,crown molding, 3zone heat & air,sec. … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Beautiful 3 Bedroom home on large lot in Pinewald. - 10/10/07 01:06 PM
Beautiful 3 Bedroom home on large lot in Pinewald. This beautifully landscaped ranch has a 2 car detached garage with a workshop.Large backyard features a very large deck & abv ground pool,that will be great for your parties & barbeques.Hardwood floors just installed in Living room& Bedrooms Home is on a … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Charleston Tricounty statistics - 10/08/07 03:18 PM
Below are the market statistics for the Charleston area through October 4, 2007:
These numbers aren't the best to look at, but paints the real picture.
Real Estate Market Statistics For the Charleston Tri-county area
*YTD 1/1/07-10/04/07
statistics from www.charlestonrealtors.com
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berkeley: Oakland's New Seismic Retrofit Incentive Program - 10/05/07 02:30 PM
If you are an Oakland homeowner, you simply must consider taking advantage of Oakland's new seismic retrofitting incentive program. And, if you are buying a home in Oakland, there is no reason not to retrofit your home. The City of Oakland is making it very easy and very affordable for you … (0 comments)
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berkeley: Ecofabulous - 10/03/07 03:57 PM
From time to time, I like to write about the green movement and how it applies to real estate and home design. So, today I want to point everyone in the direction of a fabulous blog--Ecofabulous.com.Ecofabulous is run by Zem Joaquin (and what a great name is that?), a design professional with … (8 comments)
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berkeley: Buyers Market=Sellers in Mourning - 10/02/07 02:54 PM
So the market seems to be settling down somewhat (At least, nothing too scary happened while I was on vacation in Russia for two weeks). The last few months have been a bit crazy. And, as I've said before, the market is not plummeting or caving in...it is simply correcting itself. … (3 comments)
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berkeley: Weekend Fun in the East Bay! - 09/14/07 04:23 PM
We not only get to work in the incredible East Bay, but we also get to live and play here. So, I like to chime in with some fun things to do in the East Bay from time to time. This weekend, lets visit some Hollywood History right here in the … (0 comments)
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