How to Buy a House With an Affordable Mortgage  Mama mia!  If I've said it once, I'll say it a thousand times:  You don't need to be a poor boy from a poor family in order to get an affordable mortgage!  Yes, you do need to be a first-time homebuyer.  Yes, your income needs to fall below the AMI or "area median income," which you can get a sense of at this link, Area Median Income Lookup Tool.  But beyond that, this sort of low income home loan can be very flexible and a great way to get your first place. An AMI, or low income mortgage, can be a great alternative to either jumbo or FHA, and for various reasons.  An affordable mortgage can improve your interest rate in some cases, reduce your PMI in others and it can even get you around the FHA loan limits in some counties, giving you mo... 02/07/2023

How to Rock Rising Mortgage Rates!!!   No doubt about it, since 2022 got underway, mortgage rates have been on a stairway higher and that makes it harder for our buyers to qualify for a mortgage on one hand and even when they do qualify, it puts additional strain on their household budget on the other. So how can buyers and owners keep their rate and payment as low as possible despite rising interest rates?  In this short video, I cover three classic ways to "fight the Fed:"  Paying discount points. Choosing an ARM over a fixed rate loan. Considering an interest-only mortgage program.  Wanna buy a home this year but not end up "house poor?"  Let's wind on down the road of some of the most effective strategies. Really makes me wonder,  Rob SpinosaSVP of Mortgage LendingGuaranteed RateNML... 06/09/2022

How Long Does It Take to Get Pre-Approved?  Many real estate markets in California move fast, but it's been this way for years.  When a hot property hits, perhaps there's a showing on Sunday (more on that in a bit, and in the context of COVID-19) and then offers are due on Tuesday, with some buyers scrambling to make a pre-emptive offer, if possible. This reality can run counter to some buyers' inclinations to get their mortgage financing in order by dipping one toe in the water at a time.  It's not uncommon for us to get a call that starts something like this:  "My partner and I are thinking about buying a home in the next 3 to 6 months, but we're first-time buyers and not really sure where to start.  We were told by our real estate agent that we need to get pre-approved and might have... 07/07/2020

iMetros offers special Santa Rosa Rebuild with Fire Resistant,  Steel Framed, Zero Net Energy Millennial HomesSanta Rosa Homeowners consider iMetros offers special Santa Rosa Rebuild with Fire Resistant,  Steel Framed, Zero Net Energy Millennial Homes iMetros introduces its Millennial Homes, which are steel framed, fire and earthquake resistant, produce their own energy and are green homes as a better option to Santa Rosa Homeowners who have lost their homes in recent CA fires.   Millennial Homes are Steel framed, fire and earthquake resistant, equipped with solar that produce their own needed energy, and are in compliance with CA 2020 energy mandate. Millennial Homes are Green, IoT (IoT stands for Internet of Things) Smart, meaning one can control and monitor all electronics and applia... 05/09/2018

For those of you who have been paying attention to the news, you know that this years flu is the worst in decades.  Here are some simple precautions anybody can take to try to keep yourself healthy at home.   1)  Get a flu shot.  It may not prevent getting the flu, but it can lessen the effects if you do get sick. 2)  Wash your hands often. This is the single most effective way to prevent spreading the flu germs to others, or to yourself.  It's good for those who are already sick, and those who are trying to prevent being sick.  Wash in warm water for 20 seconds. 3)  Isolate your toothbrush.  A lot of families put toothbrushes in  a community holder.  Segregate a sick family member's toothbrush from others.  In a perfect scenario, segregate every body's toothbrushes into their own holde... 01/31/2018

The Cascades is a condominium development in Rincon Valley. It is located on Mission Boulevard just off Hwy 12. It was built in 1987 and consists of 37 two-story units that range is size from 700 sq ft to 1188 sq ft. The Cascades circle around a central landscaped courtyard. There is only one gated entrance where owners need a key, and guests need to be buzzed in via an intercom system. Once inside the courtyard, all of the individual unit front doors can be accessed. Parking is subterranean and also secure. Each unit is allowed 2 spaces. The courtyard is nicely landscaped with mature trees shrubs and bushes. There is an inconspicuous pool behind a wood fence. The individually owned units have the following amenities: 2 stories Fireplace All electric kitchen, and patio Heated by forced ... 01/30/2018

Wikiup Village townhomes are located just north of Santa Rosa in an area referred to as Wikiup.  Wikiup Village is a planned unit development (PUD) of 38 attached townhomes.  They were built in a Spanish style with tile roofs, large beams, and stucco sides.  They are attached at the sides and all have private yards, and garages.  Each home has a fireplace, and washer and dryer hook ups. The homes range in size from 1000 sq ft, to around 1250 sq ft.  There are one and two story homes.   To learn more about the differences between condominiums, and homes in a planned unit development, click here: condo or townhome. The Wikiup Village is overseen by the Wikiup Village Homeowner's Association which is managed by Grapevine Property Management (541-6233).  There are monthly HOA fees which cur... 01/24/2018

Snoopy's Home Ice is a Santa Rosa family favorite.  Built by Charles Schulz in 1969, it took over 1 years to consturct.  Charles Schulz grew up in St. Paul, and was very involved in figure skating and hockey as a child.  He moved to Santa Rosa in 1958 he found there were no decent places to play hockey.  He decided to build one of Northern California's biggest indoor Ice Arena.Snoopy's Home Ice is designed to look like a Swiss Chalet on the outside, and an Alpine village inside.  There are 500 permanent seats which can be increased to 3000 for special events such a Christmas ice shows and concerts.  Snoopy's offers the following skating activities to include:  Skate rental Figure skating Freestyle skating Hockey, to include League play pick-up games lessons Charles Schulz created the Sn... 01/19/2018

I'm excited to announce my latest listing just sold at 81 Somerset in The Country Mobile Home Park Santa Rosa, CADetails:1440 sq ft manufactured homeBuilt: 1974Space fee: $681.3/2 with w/w carpet Park Amenities:Poolweight roomBeautifully landscaped55+ Highlights:Listed 185,000 on 9/10/17In Escrow for 180,000 on 11/5Closed escrow on 12/23 for 180,000Seller Concessions: None If you are interested in selling your manufactured home as I did the one listed above, call me!  I love living in Rincon Valley!  I've lived here since 1995 and can't imagine living in a better north bay community.  Call me today if you're interested in buying a home in Rincon Valley, or if you'd like to list your Rincon Valley home for sale.    Jim Cheney, Broker Saint Francis Property Jim@StFrancisProperty.com (707)... 01/15/2018

I love it when a client who has lived in the same house for 20 + years thinks they know how to price a house better than me.  Don't get me wrong, as a homeowner myself, I pay attention to what sells in my neighborhood, and feel I have a pretty good idea of what homes are worth, but when a seller over prices their house by 20% compared to recent comps, it can create a little conflict.  I do value my clients opinion even if I think it's too high.  My clients are the boss, and if they insist on over pricing, I'll work with it as long as they are flexible to reality and will lower the price within a reasonable time.My recommendation is to always price a home as close to it's value as possible taking into consideration market fluctuation and some other specifics that might apply to a particu... 10/05/2017

I was walking through the Sonoma County courthouse earlier this week when I ran into a past client.  I helped her buy her first condominium about 7 years ago.  She said to me "Jimbo, I'm selling my condo".  What???  Why didn't you call me?  She replied: "We are going to sell it ourselves".  I sat down with Cyndi and explained how using a Realtor, especially me, would be to her advantage.  Here is a summary of how using a full service experienced Realtor/broker benefits a seller. ValueBefore we even talk about what your home is worth, I'll provide you with relevant comparison properties that have recently sold, and help you figure out what the likely selling price of your home will be.  We can talk about the pros and cons of over pricing and ways to draw multiple offers.  Things you can ... 10/05/2017

It's time for another Kunde Vineyard dog walk around the vineyards.  I've done this hike a few times, and it is one of my favorite dog walks.  The hike is led by Kunde wine grower  Jeff Kunde and his dog Marley.  Be prepared to hike 4-5 miles through the hills and vineyards of the Kunde Winery.  The hike is strenuous, reaching altitudes of 1400 ft. Every mile or so there is a place to stop and rest under an oak tree, and  to enjoy a Kunde varietal wine.  Starting with cool whites, moving to reds and blends.  Enjoy seeing the 100-year-old vines and beautiful views of the Valley of the Moon all while letting Fido run leash free through the vineyards.     The hike sells out, so make your reservation soon.  A portion of the hike benefits the Sonoma County Humane Society. What: Kunde Vineyar... 09/29/2017

Most locals know that on the 3rd Thursday of each summer month, there is a street party at the Barlow in Sebastopol.  I keep forgetting to go but last month I swung by and found a party in-progress!If you haven't been to the Barlow on one of these party nights, here's what you are missing: Live bands  Awesome Hot Cake Sept 21 Black Sheep Brass Band Oct 19th Wine for purchase from Wind Gap Craft beer from Crooked Goat Great food Kids activities Crafting Face painting Bouncy house   When: Third Thursdays of ea month thru Oct  4pm - 8pmWhere: The Barlow 677 McKinley St Sebastopol, CACost: FreeMore information: The Barlow  I love living in Rincon Valley!  I've lived here since 1995 and can't imagine living in a better north bay community.  Call me today if you're interested in buying a home... 09/20/2017

The following is the sales activity in Rincon Valley 95409 for the week of Sept 10th - 17th 2017.  This does not include mobile homes or Oakmont.  Homes listed in this market report were not necessarily listed or sold by Saint Francis Properties, and is just for general consumer information only. Contact me to inquire about the specifics of any particular sale.          Single Family Detached Homes: $553,500     1257 St. Francis Rd       3/2     1350 sq ft      DOM      51 $565,000      5545 El Encanto Dr      3/2     1600 sq ft     DOM:      66 $575,000     704 Montclair Dr           3/2     1490 sq ft     DOM:       7 $721,500     5753  Desoto    Dr          3/2      1792 sq ft     DOM:      31 Avg    $603,750                                                                         155... 09/20/2017

Mission Lake Condominiums is a quiet development located in the heart of Rincon Valley. Mission Lakes consists of approximately 100 units, built in 1989, tucked away under a canopy of trees near the intersection of Mission Blvd, and Sonoma Hwy (Hwy 12). The homes range in size between 700+ sq. ft. to over 1000 sq. ft. They are either one bedroom, or two bedrooms, with 2 baths. All the homes have a fireplace, and a covered unattached garage.   The complex is nicely landscaped, and in great condition. Tall mature trees provide shade in the summer time and add extra privacy along with splendid views. The complex has a large pool and plenty of parking.  Below is a summary of properties sold at Mission Lake during 2016 HOA information: HOA dues: $390. monthly (as of this date) HOA name: Miss... 09/13/2017

Sonoma Valley Regional Park is not "tecnically" in Rincon Valley, but it's so close it's worth a visit.  The park is located on Hwy 12 just east of Glen Ellen.  This 200+ acre park offers the following amenities: Wheelchair accessible paved bike trail Developed hking trails Fenced dog park Horse trails picnic facilities  Not sure what hike to go on?  I recommend the Cougar Trail. It is located right off the driveway leading into the park. The Cougar Trail is an unpaved service road that leads up to an Oak woodland and a pond perfect for resting or bird watching.  The trail loops around to the main paved Valley of the Moon Trail.  Total distance 2 mi. +/-  Another popular hike is along the Woodland Star Trail to Suttonfield Lake.Suttonfield Lake is a popular destination in the Sonoma Val... 09/13/2017

Guess who got adopted after only 5 days in foster care, Bella, my foster dog!  Bella was adopted by a family in Walnut Creek.  Gwen and I  wish her well!  She is a great loving dog who deserves a loving, caring  family.   Good luck Bella with your forever family, you'll be missed.   I love living in Rincon Valley!  I've lived here since 1995 and can't imagine living in a better north bay community.  Call me today if you're interested in buying a home in Rincon Valley, or if you'd like to list your Rincon Valley home for sale.    Jim Cheney, Broker Saint Francis Property Jim@StFrancisProperty.com (707) 494-1055 Rincon Valley - Santa Rosa Certified Tourism Ambassador     Originally posted on RinconValleyBlog.com    09/12/2017

The following is the sales activity in Rincon Valley 95409 for the week of Sept 1st - 10th 2017.  This does not include mobile homes or Oakmont.  Homes listed in this market report were not necessarily listed or sold by Saint Francis Properties, and is just for general consumer information only. Contact me to inquire about the specifics of any particular sale.       Single Family Detached Homes: $625,000    6556 Bridgewood Dr.    4/2    1796 sq ft       DOM     114 $854,000    3210 Piedra Land          4/2     2332 sq ft       DOM     37 Avg $735,000                                                         2064 sq ft                          76  As the average home sales price continues to climb in Rincon Valley, this is a great time to sell.  Call me today, I'd love to come over and tal... 09/12/2017

We are lucky in California that our weather consistently provides virtually NO rain July, Aug or Sept. Well, October is not that far away so this is a great time to check your roof for these 5 issues. 1) Vegetation should not be touching your roof What's this look like? Tree limbs dangling over your roof with branches touching the roof. or bushes that have grown so tall they are touching your roof line.Tree limbs and hedges touch the roof and cause excessive wear and tear on the roof What's the problem? When the wind blows, that vegetation rubs your roof, accelerating the wear and tear on it. The sun and the wind are hard enough on a roof, don't let vegetation decrease the life of your roof. Vegetation can trap moisture against your roof causing moss, fungus, and algae to grow on and un... 09/01/2017

Foothill Park is one of Sonoma County's Regional Parks. It is a medium sized park of 211 rolling acres, highlighted by 3 lakes. The park was established in 1990.  It was previously a ranch. There are plenty of trails from easy to a few that will make your heart pump. One of my favorite hikes is up to the Alta Vista Trail which gives you beautiful views of central Sonoma County. The park is mostly oak woodlands with a variety of species of Oak trees Park highlights include: 7 miles of trails Varied terrain 3 lakes for fishing Mountain bike, hiking, & equestrian trails Running water and bathrooms in the parking lot.  My favorite hike is heading right up to the Three Lakes Trail to the Alta Vista Trail to the Oakwood Trail, back to the parking lot. This is a popular park, lots of people ar... 08/29/2017