Published CNBC, Wed, Aug 18 20213:51 PM EDT Alicia Adamczyk @ALICIAADAMCZYK Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. But if you’re currently renting your place, you might see the price tick up when it’s time to renew your lease. In fact, rent is forecast to be even higher this year than it would have […]
Realtor Magazine June 29, 2021 Rising prices in new-home construction have mostly shut out buyers in the lower end of the market, shows a new analysis from the National Association of Home Builders. Buyers in the bottom one-fourth of the market have had to look exclusively at the stock of existing homes. However, fast-rising prices […]
PUBLISHED FRI, JUN 4 202110:35 AM EDTUPDATED FRI, JUN 4 202112:15 PM EDT Jessica Dickler @JDICKLER KEY POINTS Record amounts of home equity and rock-bottom rates are driving more homeowners to take money out of their houses. If you want to pull some cash out, here are your options. Many Americans are suddenly house rich. […]
Whitson HuffmanForbes Councils Member Forbes Real Estate Council Capital Square’s SVP & head of acquisitions, overseeing acquisitions team, sourcing and acquiring multifamily, office and retail properties. The multifamily sector, which has been known to outperform other major commercial real estate sectors, is on track to continue this positive trajectory. A notable increase in the sector’s […]
PUBLISHED FRI, APR 30 202111:17 AM EDTUPDATED FRI, APR 30 20211:31 PM EDT Diana Olick KEY POINTS – The surge in lumber prices in the past year has added $35,872 to the price of an average new single-family home and $12,966 to the market value of an average new multifamily home, according to the NAHB. […]
Realtor Magazine March 3, 2021 The number of home shoppers buying a multigenerational home since the pandemic has risen to a nine-year high of 15%, according to data from the National Association of REALTORS® dating back to 2012. That means home shoppers are looking for larger homes that can accommodate more family members living under […]
Feb 24, 2021,08:10am EST Forbes Real Estate Council Real estate can be a competitive field, and with so many new investors vying for the same inventory, it’s becoming more difficult to secure good deals. However, even though the industry is packed with skilled professionals, it doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to get outstanding agreements with […]
CNBC.com PUBLISHED TUE, FEB 9 202111:54 AM ESTUPDATED TUE, FEB 9 202112:38 PM EST Diana Olick @IN/DIANAOLICK @DIANAOLICKCNBC @DIANAOLICK KEY POINTS – Just under 6% of all U.S. mortgages — 2.7 million homes — were in some stage of delinquency at the end of November, according to the latest reading by CoreLogic. – Some 5.35% […]
Forbes Real Estate Council Bruce McNeilageForbes Councils Member There was a time in the United States where the norm went something like this: Graduate from high school or college, and then work 30 to 40 years with the same company and retire with a pension and a gold watch. But that’s not the way it […]
HomeLight, by Valerie Kalfrin Posted onNovember 13, 2020 Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies estimates that Americans’ total spend on home remodeling projects will rise from $332 billion in Q3 2020 to $337 billion in the second half of 2021. Does that mean homeowners have found the key to economic prosperity — expensive renovations that pay dividends […]
Kitchen storage is a top priority among renovating homeowners, finds the 2021 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, based on a survey of more than 2,000 homeowners planning or in the midst of a kitchen remodel. Renovators are paying closer attention to their cabinet and pantry storage. Many of the surveyed homeowners turned their attention to […]
By Zillow Research on Dec. 18, 2020 The for-sale housing market showed incredible strength in 2020, and we expect 2021 will be even stronger. Demand continues to stay high, and is expected to surge in cities as economies reopen. Annual home sales growth is expected to be the highest in almost 40 years as life and financial […]
With all the stress that 2020 brought to our lives, it also influenced some defining changes in the way we decorate, design, and live in our homes. Lauren Sieben, provided by Dec. 16, 2020Updated: Dec. 16, 2020 11:27 a.m. Comments We’re finally closing the book on 2020, and many of us have never felt more desperate for […]
World Property Journal | By David Barley | December 1, 2020 7:45 AM ET Coronavirus outbreak fueling significant consumer demand for more space, less dense living environments According to national U.S. property broker Redfin — in the COVID pandemic world of 2020 — the typical single-family home that sold in the U.S. this year was purchased for […]
As any real estate agent knows, leads are the lifeblood to success. This is why it is no secret that a high percentage of most agents’ time is dedicated to uncovering possible leads via as many conduits as possible. That being said, all leads are not created equal. Some leads roll in thanks to expensive […]
Buying a home is an important – and exciting – decision. After all, having a place to call your own, to raise your family in, to do as you wish with no landlord to answer to are all motivating factors in starting the process. But, in addition to these emotional reasons, buying a home can […]
How will California’s Proposition 19 impact property taxes? Realtor-supported effort may free up housing inventory in the Golden State Housing Wire Daily November 19, 2020, 3:09 pm By Tim Glaze A slim majority of California residents voted in favor of Proposition 19 on Election Day, green-lighting a motion that gives new property tax breaks to older homeowners […]
Jay Adkisson Forbes Contributor A tsunami of foreclosures is just months away. Various reports show that the market for previously-owned homes climbed nearly 10% in September, the fourth straight monthly increase. It is not just sale volumes that are high, but the price of homes is showing double-digit gains. If you just look at volume and prices, the […]
The Best Real Estate Investments for Your Money This Year By Candice Elliott Updated on September 2, 2020 Listen Money Matters is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. How we make money. TABLE OF CONTENTS When many people think about investing, they think of the stock market. […]
Mortgage rates set another record low, sparking new strength in refinances PUBLISHED WED, OCT 7 20207:00 AM EDTUPDATED WED, OCT 7 20206:12 PM EDT Diana Olick@IN/DIANAOLICK@DIANAOLICKCNBC@DIANAOLICK KEY POINTS Refinance volume surged to the highest level since mid-August as mortgage rates dipped to 3.01%. Refinances jumped 8% last week and were 50% higher than a year […]
San Francisco rents plunge, showing strain from pandemic and wildfires PUBLISHED THU, OCT 1 202012:30 PM EDTJessica Bursztynsky@JBURSZ KEY POINTS Rent prices continued to plunge in big U.S. cities last month, with San Francisco leading the decline, according to data from Zumper, a real-estate start-up. In September, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in […]
PUBLISHED THU, SEP 24 20207:00 AM EDTUPDATED THU, SEP 24 20207:00 AM EDT Diana Olick@IN/DIANAOLICK@DIANAOLICKCNBC@DIANAOLICK KEY POINTS The median home prices of single-family homes and condos in the third quarter are less affordable than historical averages in 63% of U.S. counties, up from 54% a year ago, according to Attom Data Solutions, a property data-base. […]
Millions of American families could lose their homes amid COVID-19 pandemic, report says Housing Wire – September 9, 2020, 5:22 pm By Kathleen Howley A surge in the share of mortgages 90 days or more overdue in June is a signal the U.S. could be heading toward a foreclosure crisis, according to a CoreLogic report on Wednesday. The share […]
The Future of California Real Estate: Can the Golden State Survive? Realtor.com | By Clare Trapasso | Sep 3, 2020 Creative-Family/Getty Images California has long captured the nation’s imagination with its promises of the rich life, from the days of the gold rush to the rise of Hollywood and its star-making machine, to today’s booming tech sector. With its […]
Fox Business – Published August 15, 2020 In coronavirus housing market, ‘better to be seller than buyer’ Home prices rose this spring in 96% of U.S. metro areas How coronavirus is changing real estate Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman discusses how the coronavirus pandemic is changing home purchases. While the number of Americans buying homes is increasing as […]
The 2020 San Francisco exodus is real, and historic, report shows By Andrew Chamings Published 11:34 am PDT, Friday, August 14, 2020 Photo: Zillow Real estate inventory change from February to July 2020, in metro area and city proper. A new report confirms what many have been talking about for weeks: There is a mass exodus out of […]
By Matthew Speakman on Aug. 5, 2020 (zillow.com) Mortgage rates moved notably downward this week, as a stalemate in Washington dampened investor sentiment. Recently, downward pressure on mortgage rates has been consistent, but a combination of factors — including increased demand from borrowers and reluctance from lenders to push rates lower – had kept them afloat. […]
Forbes Real Estate Council COUNCIL POST| Paid Program Real Estate Ari Rastegar is CEO of Rastegar Property Company, a vertically integrated real estate company with a focus on value-oriented real estate. GETTY Professionals have begun migrating en masse from America’s biggest cities to urban areas with hot job markets, more affordable costs of living and comparable […]
Real Wealth Network, 06/24/2020 Summary: In this article you’ll learn about 18 of the best places to buy rental property in 2020. Discover why each of these markets is a great place to invest, read rental market statistics and more. Table of Contents Introduction: How Do We Know the Best Places To Buy Rental Property […]
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS – June 23, 2020 A housing shortage that has increased since the pandemic began in March means buyers continue to face steep competition for the limited supply of homes. A new study from Clever Real Estate shows that 42% of buyers who purchased a home between January and May were in a […]
Bay Area home sales fell nearly 10 percent inn March, as the coronavirus pandemic shut down many real estate transactions and showings, according to a Zillow analysis. (File photo: Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group) By LOUIS HANSEN | [email protected] | Bay Area News Group PUBLISHED: May 6, 2020 at 6:00 a.m. | UPDATED: May 7, […]
Oakland, California (Credit: iStock) It seemed that San Francisco Bay Area’s incredibly tight housing market was bulletproof. That turned out not to be true, but it took a literal pandemic to put a dent in it. Zillow economist Jeff Tucker told NBC that home sales across the Bay Area are down 35 percent year-over. It seems people […]
Getty Images/EyeEm “Since the shelter in place was first initiated a couple weeks ago, the market nearly overnight shifted to a buyer’s market” By Brock Keeling@BrockKeeling Updated Apr 23, 2020, 9:14am PDT AsAs the global pandemic touches every aspect of life, people have been asked—or, in some cases, ordered—to shelter in place. But for some, either […]
Rachel Brougham Adding rocks is an easy, low-maintenance way to spruce up your home’s curb appeal. Not sure where to start? Here are 10 front yard landscaping ideas with rocks to inspire you. Create a Rock Retaining Wall Use large rocks to create a retaining wall to increase your home’s curb appeal. A retaining wall […]
If you look at these photos they look like a dog, rabbit and cat. But when you zoom on them individually you will see the beauty of photography… That is how life is, until you zoom on people’s lives you wouldn’t understand who they really are.
When it comes to landscape design, we have learned to expect the unexpected – especially here in Portland, where doing your own thing seems to be a cultural hallmark. In spite of the strong creative and independent Portland spirit (which we love), we have seen certain trends manifest in yards and landscapes across the city […]
VIEW SLIDESHOW By Ted Andersen – Digital Editor, San Francisco Business TimesApr 28, 2020, 2:53pm PDT Updated Apr 28, 2020, 9:44pm PDT After seeing listings vanish when the shelter-in-place was first announced in mid-March, San Francisco’s real estate market is beginning to come out of its Covid-induced hibernation during what is typically the hottest season of the year for residential […]
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms to get right when considering kitchen design and renovations because there is so much to consider. A kitchen is more than just where you cook and keep all your food and appliances. Will the family eat in the kitchen as well and if so how do you want […]
Photo: Sun Valley Landscaping/Colin Conces Photography Yesterday we covered some of the green industry trends landscapers expect to see in 2020. Below are some of the design elements they are predicting will be in high demand this year. As mentioned in part one, gardening is becoming more popular, but typically people don’t have time to […]
Ellen Chang At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict editorial integrity, this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here’s an explanation for how we make money. Share this page Jumbo mortgages are different from traditional mortgages because they exceed the conforming limit set by Fannie […]
Live your truth. Esxpress your love. Share your enthusiasm. Take action towards your dreams Walk your talk. Dance and sing to your music. Embrace your blessings. Make today worth remembering. -Dr. Steve Maraboli
BanksPhotos/iStock; MentalArt/iStock; hikesterson/iStock poplasen/iStock; realtor.com There’s no denying that the kitchen has become the focal point of the modern home, the place where the outsize influence of the Food Network and HGTV converge. Prospective buyers want to imagine themselves gathered there among friends, sipping wine and nibbling on hors d’oeuvres with ease—or perhaps preparing a family […]
By Gord Collins California’s Housing Market Forecast In the midst of the unexpected Corona Virus pandemic and temporary work shut down, buyers are wondering if housing prices will fall and stay lower throughout 2020. Landlords are concerned about vacancies, rental income losses, and further rent payment defaults. Buyers and rental property investors are wondering if […]
You are strong when you know your weaknesses. You are beautiful when you appreciate your flaws. You are wise when you learn from your mistakes -unknown
The landscapers association sees more geometry and technology, but also a bunch of blue. NALP photo The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) was out Friday with its official list of the top lawn and landscape trends for 2020. “Foundational landscape elements remain on homeowners’ wish lists, but modern updates and technology are now a top priority. […]
PHOTO BY TERESA J. CLEVELAND We’ve all heard stories of lucky folks who sold their homes just as the real estate market crested, or bought when prices were at rock bottom. Is it possible for a canny homebuyer or seller to time the market in the East Bay today? Generally, the answer is “no,” real […]
Ornate landscaping and weaving in a blue color palette are two big trends for yards in the new year, according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals. The association recently released its list of the top landscaping trends in the new year. “Foundational landscape elements remain on homeowners’ wish lists, but modern updates and technology […]
Let’s face it: shopping for mortgages can be a struggle. Checking interest rates, filling out loan applications, choosing a lender — all the choices and numbers can be overwhelming. But it’s worth the research and time. Comparing mortgage rates across lenders is one of the first steps in the home buying process. This allows you […]
Your home’s two hardest working rooms can be both functional and stylish. Be inspired by these designer spaces to breathe new life into your kitchen and bathroom. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links. By: Chelsey Bowen Beautifully Balanced Nothing adds a luxurious look quite […]
BY THAN MERRILL | @THANMERRILL The Oakland economy has managed to keep pace with the entire state of California, but – through no fault of its own – has failed to keep up with its Bay Area neighbor: San Francisco. That is not to condemn Oakland’s economic standing, but rather identify the strength of San Francisco. In fact, Oakland […]
Give your outdoor space the 2020 refresh it deserves. By Lauren Phillips The concept of spending time outdoors on a daily basis is getting more and more popular, and people are paying more attention to the quality of their landscape design ideas and outdoor spaces, whether they’re patios, porches, rooftops, or traditional yards and gardens. The […]
The national average mortgage rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage is 3.94%. Depending on your credit score, loan term, and location, you can find the best mortgage rate available in today’s market here. Mortgage Rate Comparison Tool The Best Mortgage Rates of 2020 Rocket Mortgage by Quicken Loans— Best for online loan applications New American Funding— […]
Being short on square footage should never inhibit your kitchen’s design potential. Whether you’re working with hundreds of square feet or just a dozen or two, getting your cooking space into tip-top shape—both aesthetically and functionally—is just a few creative ideas away from being a reality. Below, see how these gorgeous homes used small kitchen […]
It’s almost 2020, time to dust off our crystal ball and gaze into the future of the East Bay real estate market. Will the new year be a good time to sell a house? Can you finally afford to buy that starter home? Should you invest in a rental property? The good news: As we […]
It goes without saying that the less garden you have to tend to, the lower maintenance there will be and there’s a ton of clever options when it comes to landscaping ideas to achieve this. Who has time for pruning, weeding, and watering? If a garden needing little to no care is your dream and […]
Over the last few months of traveling to different cities in the U.S. touring parade homes, meeting with builders and walking through new communities/developments, I can’t tell you how excited I am to share with you some of the beautiful exterior home design trends that I have been seeing in new construction. Whether you have […]
To determine the best time to sell, you can’t really time the market, but you should use it as your guide. By Janis Mara PHOTO BY TERESA J. CLEVELAND We’ve all heard stories of lucky folks who sold their homes just as the real estate market crested, or bought when prices were at rock bottom. […]
Mortgage rates have dropped to the lowest level in 50 years, enticing homeowners and home buyers to take advantage of record-level savings. Judy Dutton, provided by Published 8:58 am PST, Thursday, March 5, 2020 Photo: Mikolette/Getty Images Mortgage rates have just dropped to the lowest level in almost 50 years, compelling both homeowners and home buyers to […]
Whether your yard just needs new plantings or a complete refresh, redesigning the landscape can be overwhelming. Here are seven must-know landscape design tips for the perfect garden. By Kelly Roberson Updated May 21, 2019 If you’ve never tackled a landscape design before, you might be overwhelmed by all the choices you can make. But, if you think […]
Conforming loan limits increased to $510,400 for most of the U.S., which means you may be able to avoid the stricter requirements of a jumbo loan. At NerdWallet, we strive to help you make financial decisions with confidence. To do this, many or all of the products featured here are from our partners. However, this […]
Looking for the latest interior design trends to inspire your decorating schemes in 2020? Here’s our pick of the top 20, including enduring favourites that are making a return We’ve looked into our crystal ball of future interior design trends to see which will be big in 2020. How have we gathered this year’s top […]
Greater Oakland-Berkeley, Inner East Bay Real Estate January 2020 Report ———- Generally speaking, after years of high appreciation rates, annual 2019 Bay Area median home prices went down a little bit, went up a little bit or basically remained unchanged as compared to 2018. The Inner East Bay house market went up […]
An important piece of the real estate puzzle hinges on building a strong team. This is why in addition to our network of agents, lenders, attorneys, and brokers, we are always on the lookout for great contractors to partner with. Below is some more insight on what we are looking for along with a number […]
If you are a real estate investor looking to purchase wholesale properties or partner on joint venture projects, look no further. Our team has the experience, know-how, and infrastructure to offer you opportunities in your real estate investment endeavors. No matter if you are looking for a rehab project to work on or you are […]
Mortgages aren’t one-size-fits-all. For instance, a jumbo loan could fit you like a glove if you’re buying a more expensive home and need to borrow more than the conforming loan limits allow. So, if you’re looking at an upscale property or simply one in an area of the country where the cost of living is […]
Mortgage lending limits will increase yet again for 2020 GETTY News from the Federal Housing Financing Authority provides the latest figures for the threshold for non-jumbo mortgages (or “conforming loans”) and the numbers show a significant increase yet again. For 2020, the limit will raise to $510,400 for most areas in the country and $765,600 […]
The spacious open kitchen with floor-to-ceiling cabinets and multi-purpose island includes a navy-blue ceramic tile backsplash in a herringbone pattern that coordinates with the other blue details used in this special coastal retreat. By: Jeannie Matteucci User-Friendly Space A straightforward layout and tons of storage makes the HGTV Dream Home 2020 kitchen user-friendly, and the […]
Man and woman thinking about housing Photo: takasuu / Getty Images/iStockphoto A: One of the major driving forces of the real estate market in recent years has been exceptionally strong demand with minimal inventory, but the Bay Area real estate market changed in 2019. While we still have a very strong market, inventory has increased over […]
Homeowners find themselves in the position of having to sell their home fast for any number of reasons. For example, there are times when family obligations require you to move out of state with little warning. Maybe a job relocation takes you to a new area. Or a personal situation has arisen, putting homeowners on […]
Everyone admires beautiful landscape design, but planning and experience are necessary to design, install, and maintain beautiful gardens, lawns, and hardscapes. Designing a great space may even be more difficult when working with a smaller space. Without careful planning you may end up with a space that feels cluttered, crowded or cramped instead of the relaxing […]
MONIQUE VALERIS Home Decor Editor, ELLEDecor.com Monique Valeris is the home decor editor for ELLEDecor.com, where she covers everything from house tours to product roundups, and her idea of a well-decorated interior involves endless layers of patterns, brass accents, and anything with a monogram. TEAL TILE In a Brooklyn brownstone designed by architect Elizabeth Roberts, a custom […]
Just because you have a smaller plot doesn’t mean you can’t stand out. Maximize the impact of minimal yards with these small garden, small yard, and small backyard landscaping ideas. CREATE A VIEW: A simple pergola gives this small garden landscaping a grand feel. Arbors and pergolas are classic small yard landscaping ideas and great […]
We all spend a lot of time in our bathrooms, so it’s only right that we should make them into a simply gorgeous place to be. Unique bathtubs, sleek vanity units and modern toilet designs come in all shapes and sizes, to suit spaces and budgets both large and small. Aside from the essential facilities, […]
Bay Area single family home prices edged up in December, after months of modest declines, according to Zillow. (Photo courtesy of Pacific Union Real Estate) After a months-long slump in Bay Area home prices, the market appears poised to drive higher as buyers act on low interest rates and fight for scarce inventory. The median […]
Fashion a Functional Space With a budget of $10,000, you can substantially change the look of the yard and make it more functional. These homeowners wanted an area for a table and chairs near the lawn, as well as steps that lead to the grassy space where their kids play. Carex Design Group expanded an […]
Mortgage rates on 30-year, fixed loans dropped 0.7 points this week, hitting 3.51% on average, according to Freddie Mac. It’s the lowest rate seen since September last year—when rates hit 3.49%—and the second-lowest rate since mid-2016. This chart shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the last year. COURTESY OF FREDDIE MAC According to Joel […]
Sometimes forgoing color for a classic palette can really pay off, and these black and white kitchens from top designers are proof. From charming farmhouse looks to sleek, modern designs, this collection of gorgeous black and white kitchens is sure to inspire your own cooking space. MONACO BLACK AND WHITE KITCHEN In a ’70s-era Monaco […]
A home at 190 Almendral Avenue is seen with a “For sale” sign in July in Atherton, the most expensive enclave in the Bay Area. Bay Area home prices are projected to grow slowly if at all this year.Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle 2019 Realtor Denise Liew waits for prospective buyers in a home […]
Dec 18, 2019, 6:04pm EST Residents have started filling into Modera Jack London Square, a 134-unit apartment complex that is one of several bringing hundreds of new renters to Oakland’s waterfront. The development at 378 Embarcadero West sits one block away from the Oakland estuary near a cluster of restaurants such as Miette Patisserie, The Forge, […]
INSPIRATION FOR TODAY: “Competition will always place your life in the hands of others, while initiative gives you the freedom to choose your own destiny.” ~ Willard & Marguerite Beecher
What are the best real estate lead generation options today? Where and how can real estate agents, investors and other related industry professionals generate more leads for buying, selling and renting properties? What are some of the little known benefits, and pitfalls of common real estate lead generation channels today? Here are 12 ways for real estate […]
The real estate industry caters to independent strategies. For every investor, there is another way to go about conducting business. Some may prefer to utilize the convenience of technology while others want to maintain personal relationships. However, for one reason or another, there remains a void between these two independent strategies. Smart investors will figure […]
“Investment is most intelligent when most business like” – Warren Buffett If investing is better when conducted most business like, does it mean that more real estate investors ought to be investing in a more businesslike fashion? Should every real estate investor be investing as a business? What does that really mean? What does it look […]
Many people are still wondering whether or not real estate is one of the best investment strategies for long-term wealth building. Is investing in homes still a smart investment for the average individual? Is a home still the best investment of a lifetime for most Americans? If so, why are some pessimists still questioning the rebound […]
As any real estate agent knows, leads are the lifeblood to success. This is why it is no secret that a high percentage of most agents’ time is dedicated to uncovering possible leads via as many conduits as possible. That being said, all leads are not created equal. Some leads roll in thanks to expensive […]
Buying a home is an important – and exciting – decision. After all, having a place to call your own, to raise your family in, to do as you wish with no landlord to answer to are all motivating factors in starting the process. But, in addition to these emotional reasons, buying a home can […]
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS – June 23, 2020 A housing shortage that has increased since the pandemic began in March means buyers continue to face steep competition for the limited supply of homes. A new study from Clever Real Estate shows that 42% of buyers who purchased a home between January and May were in a […]
Kindness is like snow- It beautifies everything it covers Kahlil Gibran
Bay Area home sales fell nearly 10 percent inn March, as the coronavirus pandemic shut down many real estate transactions and showings, according to a Zillow analysis. (File photo: Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group) By LOUIS HANSEN | [email protected] | Bay Area News Group PUBLISHED: May 6, 2020 at 6:00 a.m. | UPDATED: May 7, […]
When you see something beautiful in someone, tell them. It may take seconds to say, but for them, it could last a lifetime.
Oakland, California (Credit: iStock) It seemed that San Francisco Bay Area’s incredibly tight housing market was bulletproof. That turned out not to be true, but it took a literal pandemic to put a dent in it. Zillow economist Jeff Tucker told NBC that home sales across the Bay Area are down 35 percent year-over. It seems people […]
Getty Images/EyeEm “Since the shelter in place was first initiated a couple weeks ago, the market nearly overnight shifted to a buyer’s market” By Brock Keeling@BrockKeeling Updated Apr 23, 2020, 9:14am PDT AsAs the global pandemic touches every aspect of life, people have been asked—or, in some cases, ordered—to shelter in place. But for some, either […]
“If people are doubting how far you can go, go so far that you can’t hear them anymore.” -Michele Ruiz
Rachel Brougham Adding rocks is an easy, low-maintenance way to spruce up your home’s curb appeal. Not sure where to start? Here are 10 front yard landscaping ideas with rocks to inspire you. Create a Rock Retaining Wall Use large rocks to create a retaining wall to increase your home’s curb appeal. A retaining wall […]
If you look at these photos they look like a dog, rabbit and cat. But when you zoom on them individually you will see the beauty of photography… That is how life is, until you zoom on people’s lives you wouldn’t understand who they really are.
When it comes to landscape design, we have learned to expect the unexpected – especially here in Portland, where doing your own thing seems to be a cultural hallmark. In spite of the strong creative and independent Portland spirit (which we love), we have seen certain trends manifest in yards and landscapes across the city […]
VIEW SLIDESHOW By Ted Andersen – Digital Editor, San Francisco Business TimesApr 28, 2020, 2:53pm PDT Updated Apr 28, 2020, 9:44pm PDT After seeing listings vanish when the shelter-in-place was first announced in mid-March, San Francisco’s real estate market is beginning to come out of its Covid-induced hibernation during what is typically the hottest season of the year for residential […]
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms to get right when considering kitchen design and renovations because there is so much to consider. A kitchen is more than just where you cook and keep all your food and appliances. Will the family eat in the kitchen as well and if so how do you want […]
Photo: Sun Valley Landscaping/Colin Conces Photography Yesterday we covered some of the green industry trends landscapers expect to see in 2020. Below are some of the design elements they are predicting will be in high demand this year. As mentioned in part one, gardening is becoming more popular, but typically people don’t have time to […]
Ellen Chang At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict editorial integrity, this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here’s an explanation for how we make money. Share this page Jumbo mortgages are different from traditional mortgages because they exceed the conforming limit set by Fannie […]
Live your truth. Esxpress your love. Share your enthusiasm. Take action towards your dreams Walk your talk. Dance and sing to your music. Embrace your blessings. Make today worth remembering. -Dr. Steve Maraboli
BanksPhotos/iStock; MentalArt/iStock; hikesterson/iStock poplasen/iStock; realtor.com There’s no denying that the kitchen has become the focal point of the modern home, the place where the outsize influence of the Food Network and HGTV converge. Prospective buyers want to imagine themselves gathered there among friends, sipping wine and nibbling on hors d’oeuvres with ease—or perhaps preparing a family […]
By Gord Collins California’s Housing Market Forecast In the midst of the unexpected Corona Virus pandemic and temporary work shut down, buyers are wondering if housing prices will fall and stay lower throughout 2020. Landlords are concerned about vacancies, rental income losses, and further rent payment defaults. Buyers and rental property investors are wondering if […]
You are strong when you know your weaknesses. You are beautiful when you appreciate your flaws. You are wise when you learn from your mistakes -unknown
The landscapers association sees more geometry and technology, but also a bunch of blue. NALP photo The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) was out Friday with its official list of the top lawn and landscape trends for 2020. “Foundational landscape elements remain on homeowners’ wish lists, but modern updates and technology are now a top priority. […]
No one ever made a diiference by being like Everyone Else -P.T. Barnum
Ornate landscaping and weaving in a blue color palette are two big trends for yards in the new year, according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals. The association recently released its list of the top landscaping trends in the new year. “Foundational landscape elements remain on homeowners’ wish lists, but modern updates and technology […]
Let’s face it: shopping for mortgages can be a struggle. Checking interest rates, filling out loan applications, choosing a lender — all the choices and numbers can be overwhelming. But it’s worth the research and time. Comparing mortgage rates across lenders is one of the first steps in the home buying process. This allows you […]
Your home’s two hardest working rooms can be both functional and stylish. Be inspired by these designer spaces to breathe new life into your kitchen and bathroom. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links. By: Chelsey Bowen Beautifully Balanced Nothing adds a luxurious look quite […]
BY THAN MERRILL | @THANMERRILL The Oakland economy has managed to keep pace with the entire state of California, but – through no fault of its own – has failed to keep up with its Bay Area neighbor: San Francisco. That is not to condemn Oakland’s economic standing, but rather identify the strength of San Francisco. In fact, Oakland […]
Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all barriers within yourself that you have built against it. -Rumi
Being short on square footage should never inhibit your kitchen’s design potential. Whether you’re working with hundreds of square feet or just a dozen or two, getting your cooking space into tip-top shape—both aesthetically and functionally—is just a few creative ideas away from being a reality. Below, see how these gorgeous homes used small kitchen […]
It’s almost 2020, time to dust off our crystal ball and gaze into the future of the East Bay real estate market. Will the new year be a good time to sell a house? Can you finally afford to buy that starter home? Should you invest in a rental property? The good news: As we […]
Forgive Others, Not Because They Deserve Forgiveness, But Because You Deserve Peace.
It goes without saying that the less garden you have to tend to, the lower maintenance there will be and there’s a ton of clever options when it comes to landscaping ideas to achieve this. Who has time for pruning, weeding, and watering? If a garden needing little to no care is your dream and […]
Over the last few months of traveling to different cities in the U.S. touring parade homes, meeting with builders and walking through new communities/developments, I can’t tell you how excited I am to share with you some of the beautiful exterior home design trends that I have been seeing in new construction. Whether you have […]
To determine the best time to sell, you can’t really time the market, but you should use it as your guide. By Janis Mara PHOTO BY TERESA J. CLEVELAND We’ve all heard stories of lucky folks who sold their homes just as the real estate market crested, or bought when prices were at rock bottom. […]
Mortgage rates have dropped to the lowest level in 50 years, enticing homeowners and home buyers to take advantage of record-level savings. Judy Dutton, provided by Published 8:58 am PST, Thursday, March 5, 2020 Photo: Mikolette/Getty Images Mortgage rates have just dropped to the lowest level in almost 50 years, compelling both homeowners and home buyers to […]
If You Don’t Risk Anything,You Risk Even More – Erica Jong
Whether your yard just needs new plantings or a complete refresh, redesigning the landscape can be overwhelming. Here are seven must-know landscape design tips for the perfect garden. By Kelly Roberson Updated May 21, 2019 If you’ve never tackled a landscape design before, you might be overwhelmed by all the choices you can make. But, if you think […]
Conforming loan limits increased to $510,400 for most of the U.S., which means you may be able to avoid the stricter requirements of a jumbo loan. At NerdWallet, we strive to help you make financial decisions with confidence. To do this, many or all of the products featured here are from our partners. However, this […]
Looking for the latest interior design trends to inspire your decorating schemes in 2020? Here’s our pick of the top 20, including enduring favourites that are making a return We’ve looked into our crystal ball of future interior design trends to see which will be big in 2020. How have we gathered this year’s top […]
Greater Oakland-Berkeley, Inner East Bay Real Estate January 2020 Report ———- Generally speaking, after years of high appreciation rates, annual 2019 Bay Area median home prices went down a little bit, went up a little bit or basically remained unchanged as compared to 2018. The Inner East Bay house market went up […]
Life is short so don’t hold back. Forgive like you have amnesia. Believe like a kid, love like crazy, and be yourself.
An important piece of the real estate puzzle hinges on building a strong team. This is why in addition to our network of agents, lenders, attorneys, and brokers, we are always on the lookout for great contractors to partner with. Below is some more insight on what we are looking for along with a number […]
If you are a real estate investor looking to purchase wholesale properties or partner on joint venture projects, look no further. Our team has the experience, know-how, and infrastructure to offer you opportunities in your real estate investment endeavors. No matter if you are looking for a rehab project to work on or you are […]
Mortgages aren’t one-size-fits-all. For instance, a jumbo loan could fit you like a glove if you’re buying a more expensive home and need to borrow more than the conforming loan limits allow. So, if you’re looking at an upscale property or simply one in an area of the country where the cost of living is […]
Mortgage lending limits will increase yet again for 2020 GETTY News from the Federal Housing Financing Authority provides the latest figures for the threshold for non-jumbo mortgages (or “conforming loans”) and the numbers show a significant increase yet again. For 2020, the limit will raise to $510,400 for most areas in the country and $765,600 […]
The spacious open kitchen with floor-to-ceiling cabinets and multi-purpose island includes a navy-blue ceramic tile backsplash in a herringbone pattern that coordinates with the other blue details used in this special coastal retreat. By: Jeannie Matteucci User-Friendly Space A straightforward layout and tons of storage makes the HGTV Dream Home 2020 kitchen user-friendly, and the […]
Man and woman thinking about housing Photo: takasuu / Getty Images/iStockphoto A: One of the major driving forces of the real estate market in recent years has been exceptionally strong demand with minimal inventory, but the Bay Area real estate market changed in 2019. While we still have a very strong market, inventory has increased over […]
The World You See Is Created By Where You Put Your Focus. If You Want To See Something Different, Adjust Your Lens.
Homeowners find themselves in the position of having to sell their home fast for any number of reasons. For example, there are times when family obligations require you to move out of state with little warning. Maybe a job relocation takes you to a new area. Or a personal situation has arisen, putting homeowners on […]
Everyone admires beautiful landscape design, but planning and experience are necessary to design, install, and maintain beautiful gardens, lawns, and hardscapes. Designing a great space may even be more difficult when working with a smaller space. Without careful planning you may end up with a space that feels cluttered, crowded or cramped instead of the relaxing […]
MONIQUE VALERIS Home Decor Editor, ELLEDecor.com Monique Valeris is the home decor editor for ELLEDecor.com, where she covers everything from house tours to product roundups, and her idea of a well-decorated interior involves endless layers of patterns, brass accents, and anything with a monogram. TEAL TILE In a Brooklyn brownstone designed by architect Elizabeth Roberts, a custom […]
Happiness is the new rich.Inner peace is the new success.Health is the new wealth.Kindness is the new cool. -Syed Balkhi
Just because you have a smaller plot doesn’t mean you can’t stand out. Maximize the impact of minimal yards with these small garden, small yard, and small backyard landscaping ideas. CREATE A VIEW: A simple pergola gives this small garden landscaping a grand feel. Arbors and pergolas are classic small yard landscaping ideas and great […]
We all spend a lot of time in our bathrooms, so it’s only right that we should make them into a simply gorgeous place to be. Unique bathtubs, sleek vanity units and modern toilet designs come in all shapes and sizes, to suit spaces and budgets both large and small. Aside from the essential facilities, […]
Bay Area single family home prices edged up in December, after months of modest declines, according to Zillow. (Photo courtesy of Pacific Union Real Estate) After a months-long slump in Bay Area home prices, the market appears poised to drive higher as buyers act on low interest rates and fight for scarce inventory. The median […]
“YOU DON’T INSPIRE PEOPLE BY BEING PERFECT. YOU INSPIRE THEM BY HOW YOU DEAL WITH YOUR IMPERFECTIONS.”
Fashion a Functional Space With a budget of $10,000, you can substantially change the look of the yard and make it more functional. These homeowners wanted an area for a table and chairs near the lawn, as well as steps that lead to the grassy space where their kids play. Carex Design Group expanded an […]
Mortgage rates on 30-year, fixed loans dropped 0.7 points this week, hitting 3.51% on average, according to Freddie Mac. It’s the lowest rate seen since September last year—when rates hit 3.49%—and the second-lowest rate since mid-2016. This chart shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the last year. COURTESY OF FREDDIE MAC According to Joel […]
Sometimes forgoing color for a classic palette can really pay off, and these black and white kitchens from top designers are proof. From charming farmhouse looks to sleek, modern designs, this collection of gorgeous black and white kitchens is sure to inspire your own cooking space. MONACO BLACK AND WHITE KITCHEN In a ’70s-era Monaco […]
A home at 190 Almendral Avenue is seen with a “For sale” sign in July in Atherton, the most expensive enclave in the Bay Area. Bay Area home prices are projected to grow slowly if at all this year.Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle 2019 Realtor Denise Liew waits for prospective buyers in a home […]
Dec 18, 2019, 6:04pm EST Residents have started filling into Modera Jack London Square, a 134-unit apartment complex that is one of several bringing hundreds of new renters to Oakland’s waterfront. The development at 378 Embarcadero West sits one block away from the Oakland estuary near a cluster of restaurants such as Miette Patisserie, The Forge, […]
What are the best real estate lead generation options today? Where and how can real estate agents, investors and other related industry professionals generate more leads for buying, selling and renting properties? What are some of the little known benefits, and pitfalls of common real estate lead generation channels today? Here are 12 ways for real estate […]
The real estate industry caters to independent strategies. For every investor, there is another way to go about conducting business. Some may prefer to utilize the convenience of technology while others want to maintain personal relationships. However, for one reason or another, there remains a void between these two independent strategies. Smart investors will figure […]
“Investment is most intelligent when most business like” – Warren Buffett If investing is better when conducted most business like, does it mean that more real estate investors ought to be investing in a more businesslike fashion? Should every real estate investor be investing as a business? What does that really mean? What does it look […]
Many people are still wondering whether or not real estate is one of the best investment strategies for long-term wealth building. Is investing in homes still a smart investment for the average individual? Is a home still the best investment of a lifetime for most Americans? If so, why are some pessimists still questioning the rebound […]