Expertise

What is Home Buying Power?

Understanding your home-buying power is essential when navigating the competitive Bay Area real estate market. It’s shaped by factors like income, credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment—each influencing the homes you can afford and the terms you’ll secure. By improving your financial standing and staying informed on market conditions, you can maximize your buying power and make confident decisions in a market where timing is everything.

December 3, 2024

Kensington Farmers' Market vegetable array.

East Bay Farmer’s Markets: Fresh, Local & Community-Driven

A comprehensive guide to East Bay farmer’s markets, including locations, hours, and special events, as well as seasonal produce and how to choose it.

October 25, 2024

drone shot of the "Mrs. Doubtfire House"

Bay Area Real Estate in TV and Cinema

Let’s look at several of the real estate properties that have played leading roles over the years. Has their worth or general appeal skyrocketed with fame? Whether chosen for their beauty, suburban charm, or quirky vibes, properties all across the Bay Area have had their moment in the limelight.

Here, in order of their film debut date, are ten properties in the broader East Bay and San Francisco area that have been featured as locations in film and television. You may be surprised how much their value has skyrocketed over the years!

September 10, 2024

Pastries display from the Cheeseboard on Shattuck Ave in Berkeley, CA.

Culinary Delights of the East Bay

The East Bay offers an incredible array of culinary delights, from international cuisines to local favorites. Whether you crave Mediterranean, Thai, deep-dish pizza, or the best bagels, there’s something for every palate. Don’t miss iconic spots like Burma Superstar and Chez Panisse, or explore unique venues like Cafe Ohlone, which showcases Native American cuisine.

June 27, 2024

Hidden Gems of the East Bay

Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of the East Bay. From charming small towns to unique parks and quirky shops, there’s a lot to explore. Whether it’s scenic views, offbeat attractions, or local history, there’s something special waiting to be discovered.

May 23, 2024

Must-Do Experiences in the East Bay

No matter what your interests, the East Bay offers incredible diversity, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Here’s an overview of ten local treasures that are not to be missed.

April 30, 2024

What Does HOI Mean in Real Estate?

HOI, or Housing Opportunity Index, measures the percentage of homes in an area affordable to the median-income family, crucial for assessing housing accessibility. Understanding HOI guides decisions for buyers, investors, and policymakers, offering a clear snapshot of housing affordability.

March 26, 2024

Who Orders the Inspection When Buying a Home?

In the homebuying process, the buyer typically orders and pays for a home inspection after the offer is accepted. Sellers in the inner San Francisco Bay Area often opt for a pre-listing inspection to address issues before listing. Buyers can negotiate a contingency to conduct their inspections.

March 13, 2024

Tree lined, wire-frame apartment building block with green car out front and city skyline in background, set on orange-yellow background color.

How Buying a Home Achieves Two Financial Goals at the Same Time

Purchasing a home is not just about acquiring a place to live; it’s also a significant financial decision. Interestingly, buying a home can simultaneously achieve two key financial goals. Let’s explore what these are and their implications.

February 15, 2024

construction site scene in yellow on blue-green background with overlay text: prepaid cost.

What are Prepaid Costs When Buying a Home?

Prepaid costs, or ‘prepaids,’ in real estate refer to expenses paid in advance at the time of closing, including homeowners insurance premiums, property taxes, mortgage interest, and escrow account funding. It’s essential to distinguish prepaids from the down payment.

January 31, 2024

San Francisco city skyline in shades of blue with the abbreviation

What does STR mean in Real Estate?

You may have come across the term “STR” in real estate listings or conversations. Short for Short-Term Rental, STR is a growing segment within the real estate market.

December 19, 2023

What is RAL in Real Estate?

In the evolving landscape of real estate, specialized segments like Residential Assisted Living, play a crucial role. Residential Assisted Living is now commonly referred to as “senior housing” or simply “assisted living”. Most elders will face a decision of where to live in their later years.

December 5, 2023

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