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Berkeley’s Seismic Transfer Tax Rebate Guide
Berkeley is well-known for its commitment to safety, sustainability, and community resilience. With its unique geological landscape, however, comes a heightened risk of earthquakes, making seismic safety a priority for residents and city officials alike. To encourage...
Multigenerational Home Buying: How to Find a Home That Fits Your Whole Family
For many homebuyers, multigenerational living used to be considered an option of last resort: it was a route families took only when they needed to ride out a financial storm or care for ailing family members. But that mindset is on the decline: A growing number of...
October 2024 – Real Estate Market Update
As we move through the final quarter of the year, my October 2024 real estate market update provides critical insights into how Berkeley’s housing market is adapting to shifting economic conditions. Despite signs of softening from pandemic highs, the local market...
Stage to Sell: How to Attract Buyers and Boost Offers
Selling a home can be a complex and emotional journey, with numerous decisions to make along the way. One of the most impactful decisions a seller can make is whether to stage their home. Home staging involves arranging furniture and decor in a way that highlights the...
September 2024 – Real Estate Market Update
The high interest rate regime that began in March of 2022 was finally reversed when the Federal Reserve lowered it's benchmark rate by 0.50% on September 18th, the first decrease in four years. The move was anticipated but the 'supersized' half-point rate cut was...
7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor
A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year. If you’re among them, you know that embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and daunting. According to the survey, the median renovation...
Choosing a Mortgage Lender
One of the first things a prospective buyer should do is find an experienced and responsive mortgage lender before making a purchase. In many cases, this could be six months to a year prior to when you want to buy a home. People often delay reaching out to a lender...
August 2024 – Real Estate Market Update
Summer is winding down and we've seen some clear signs that inflation is under control. Unfortunately, it the job market is not looking as resilient as it originally appeared earlier in the year. In my August 2024 real estate market update, I examine the most recent...