Sustainable Living: Green Home 2023
As the world becomes increasingly aware of sustainable living, individuals and households are taking conscious steps to reduce their environmental footprint.
One of the areas where we can make a significant impact is within our own homes. This blog post will provide valuable insights into creating a greener home for you.
Eco-friendly Practices
1. Switch to energy-efficient lighting
One example of energy-efficient lighting is LED lighting. LEDs have revolutionized the lighting industry due to their remarkable energy efficiency.
Also, LED bulbs use 80% less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs.
2. Water conservation
Water scarcity is a growing concern worldwide. In response, homeowners are adopting water-saving techniques. Such as:
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Low-flow toilets
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Traditional toilets typically use around 3.5 to 7 gallons of water per flush, whereas low-flow toilets aim to use 1.6 gallons or less.
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Low-flow shower heads
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Standard modern shower heads typically have a flow rate of around 2.5 gallons per minute. In contrast, low-flow shower heads have a flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute or less, with some models achieving rates as low as 1.5 gallons per minute.
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Water-saving faucets
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The standard faucet typically has flow rates of 2.2 gallons per minute or higher, while low-flow faucets aim for flow rates of 1.5 gallons per minute or less.
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Rainwater harvesting systems
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This allows homeowners to collect and reuse rainwater for non-potable purposes such as gardening and cleaning.
3. Install solar panels
Solar panels offer a renewable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution to meet our energy needs while reducing our carbon footprint.
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How do they work?
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Energy.gov: Solar radiation is light – also known as electromagnetic radiation – that is emitted by the sun. While every location on Earth receives some sunlight over a year, the amount of solar radiation that reaches any one spot on the Earth’s surface varies. Solar technologies capture this radiation and turn it into useful forms of energy.
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Will it increase the value of my home?
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Zillow: Nationally, homes with solar-energy systems sold for 4.1% more on average than comparable homes without solar power. For the median-valued home, that translates to an additional $9,274.
One reason houses with solar-energy systems sell for more than those without them is that they can provide substantial future energy cost savings.
For homeowners who know they consume a lot of power, these future savings are worth spending a bit more money upfront.
4. Smart home integration
Smart home technologies are integrated into eco-friendly real estate to optimize energy consumption. These technologies enable homeowners to monitor and control energy usage, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and appliances remotely.
In addition, by connecting your home with smart devices, you can reduce your household energy usage by as much as 30%.
The Value of Energy Efficiency
NAR, Majority of Agents, Brokers Find Value in Promoting Energy Efficiency in Listings, A majority (63%) of agents and brokers said promoting energy efficiency in listings is very or somewhat valuable, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors®.
“While each area of the country has a unique climate and community resources, Realtors® are finding the need to embrace their clients’ sustainability interests,” said Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research.
“Buyers often seek homes that either lessen their environmental footprint or reduce their monthly energy costs. There is value in promoting green features and energy information to future home buyers.”
in Conclusion
The concept of sustainable living has evolved, leading to the rise of greener homes. By embracing these trends and making sustainable choices, we can collectively make a significant impact on preserving our planet’s resources and creating a more sustainable future.
If you’re interested in more sustainability content, check out PISE in Paradise, which discusses a green building method and its environmental benefits.
Lastly, let us all take the necessary steps toward a greener tomorrow.
Prepare for the Spring Real Estate Market 2023
As the flowers start to bloom, the real estate market is getting ready for one of the most active real estate seasons: spring. The spring real estate market can be very competitive, with more buyers and sellers entering the market. If you plan to buy or sell a home this season, it is important to be prepared.
Start preparing for the Spring Real Estate Market
Here are some tips to put you in the best position this season. Whether you are buying or selling a home, the spring market can be a great opportunity to achieve your real estate goals.
- Start planning early: The earlier you start planning, the better prepared you will be. If you are planning to sell your home, start decluttering and cleaning out your home. If you are planning to buy a home, start researching neighborhoods and determining your budget.
- Find a reputable real estate agent: A good real estate agent can help you navigate the competitive spring market. Look for agents like Randy and Heidi who are experienced, have a good track record of success in the local market, and know the local sales trends. Read more on About Us to get to know us.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage: If you plan to buy a home, get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start house hunting. This will give you an advantage in a competitive market and show sellers that you are a serious buyer.
- Price your home correctly: If you are planning to sell your home, make sure you price it correctly. A real estate agent can help you determine the appropriate price based on comparable homes in your area and current market conditions.
- Make necessary repairs and improvements: If your home needs repairs or improvements, make them before listing your home. This can help your home sell faster and for a higher price.
- Stage your home: Staging your home can help it sell faster and for a higher price. Hire a professional or use online resources to stage your home and make it more appealing to buyers. Check out Home Staging Success for staging tips and tricks.
Homebuying Forecast
Michael Hyman, NAR Research Data Specialist, Housing Affordability Conditions Improved in January 2023 for the Third Consecutive Month, at the national level, housing affordability rose in January compared to the previous month, according to NAR’s Housing Affordability Index. Compared to the prior month, the monthly mortgage payment decreased by 3.3% while the median price of single-family homes declined by 2.4%, making home buying more affordable in January. The monthly mortgage payment decreased by $62 from last month.
Sonoma County Housing Market
Redfin: In February 2023, Sonoma County home prices were down 4.9% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $745K. On average, homes in Sonoma County sell after 48 days on the market compared to 29 days last year. There were 226 homes sold in February this year, down from 332 last year.
Work with experienced real estate agents
The real estate market is busy during the spring season as many houses are put up for sale. Unique homes require skillful marketing, and we can help you make your home stand out and be marketed effectively. If you are planning to enter the real estate market this season, give us a call!
Discovering The Communities in Sonoma County
Sonoma County is known for its natural beauty, diverse communities, and thriving real estate market. One of its highlights is its wine industry, with over 400 wineries producing world-class wines.
Aside from wine, it is also home to several charming cities and towns, each with its unique character. If you are looking to buy a home in Sonoma County, there are many great communities to choose from:
Petaluma
Nestled on the side of Sonoma Mountain, Petaluma is a small town with a historic downtown. With a history in the Gold Rush and many historic ties to a rich agricultural heritage, Petaluma is a town with the ranch’s work ethic and the artist’s culture.
It is now a hub for technology and innovation. Petaluma is where history, culture, and innovation find confluence and was also ranked No. 1 in Niche as the best place to live in Sonoma County.
Click here for active Petaluma listings.
Data Dive
| Key Facts | Petaluma |
| Population | 59,776 |
| Median household income | $100,379 |
| Median home value | $697,700 |
| Median rent | $2,144 |
| Avg. commute (mins.) | 31.3 |
Source: American Community Survey data. Medians are weighted based on the number of owner-occupied housing units, 2021 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles.
Sebastopol
Located only 52± miles north of urban San Francisco, Sebastopol has a small-town feel with culture beautifully mixed in. Only a 20± minute drive to the Pacific Ocean, this charming town is influenced by the natural scenery surrounding it and the artistic and agricultural endeavors throughout the area.
Furthermore, the rural areas directly outside Sebastopol are covered in luscious vineyards and productive orchards. Crops are celebrated through annual festivals such as the Apple Blossom Festival and the Gravenstein Apple Fair.
Sebastopol is a popular destination for those who value a slower pace of life.
Click here for active Sebastopol listings.
Data Dive
| Key Facts | Sebastopol |
| Population | 7,521 |
| Median household income | $89,679 |
| Median home value | $696,500 |
| Median rent | $1,555 |
| Avg. commute (mins.) | 25.9 |
Source: American Community Survey data. Medians are weighted based on the number of owner-occupied housing units, 2021 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles.
Healdsburg
Healdsburg is situated amidst the country’s three most important wine regions, giving this town accolades including a continuous award as one of the “Top 10 Smallest Towns in America.”
With the Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valley in the surrounding area, Healdsburg is yet another charming gateway to wine country.
Moreover, with its central plaza, from the 19th century, Healdsburg has an impeccable charm that is only rivaled by its mild climate and a strong sense of community.
Click here for active Healdsburg listings.
Data Dive
| Key Facts | Healdsburg |
| Population | 11,340 |
| Median household income | $94,375 |
| Median home value | $824,300 |
| Median rent | $1,942 |
| Avg. commute (mins.) | 21.3 |
Source: American Community Survey data. Medians are weighted based on the number of owner-occupied housing units, 2021 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles.
Santa Rosa
Being the largest city along the Northern California coast, Santa Rosa attracts the standard American amenities and artisan businesses that make Northern California unique. Located 55± miles north of San Francisco, this small city is the perfect gateway to Sonoma wine country.
The Mediterranean climate allows for the luxurious indoor-outdoor lifestyle enjoyed by residents and visitors and is also perfect weather for all the grapes grown in the area.
For all these reasons and more, the horticulturist Luther Burbank said of his home, “I firmly believe, from what I have seen, that this is the chosen spot of all this earth as far as Nature is concerned.”
Click here for active Santa Rosa listings.
Data Dive
| Key Facts | Santa Rosa |
| Population | 178,127 |
| Median household income | $84,823 |
| Median home value | $598,700 |
| Median rent | $1,837 |
| Avg. commute (mins.) | 23.2 |
Source: American Community Survey data. Medians are weighted based on the number of owner-occupied housing units, 2021 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles.
Forestville
Nestled 60± miles north of San Francisco, this small town has a long history of cultural richness. With the redwood forests to the west and the rolling hills speckled with prolific vineyards to the south, the natural beauty helps create the artistic energy emanating from Forestville.
With the town’s unofficial motto being “Forestville, The Good Life”, this idyllic local lives and breathes its self-adopted mantra.
In addition, with events such as the Forestville Youth Park Parade, eateries like the Russian River Pub, and innumerable outdoor opportunities, the sense of place and pride of the community in Forestville is felt by residents and day-trippers alike.
Click here for active Forestville listings.
Windsor
Windsor is a vibrant community that attracts visitors and residents alike. It offers visitors and residents a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and fine wine.
The Foothill Regional Park, located just south of Windsor, features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and swimming.
Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, relax with a glass of wine, or immerse yourself in the local arts scene, Windsor is the place to be.
Click here for active Windsor listings.
In conclusion,
These are just a few of the many communities that Sonoma County has to offer. Whether you’re a wine lover, foodie, nature enthusiast, or history buff, there’s plenty to enjoy. Consider these communities when searching for your dream home in this beautiful part of California.
Heidi and I are experts in Sonoma County as lifelong residents. We have hiked the trails, ridden our motorcycles up and down the roads, camped in the parks, attended festivals, shopped in the stores, and attended community meetings. Involvement in the community is our passion.
Additionally, we have worked in real estate for 45 years combined, bringing our love for this place to our craft to help you make a home here as we have in Northern California.
Learn more about what it is like living in a wine country.
We know Sonoma County; we know real estate. Call us, and we can help you reach your real estate goals.
Selling Your Home During Winter Season
As most of us believe, selling a home in Sonoma County during the winter months can be challenging. After all, it is widely known that spring and summer tend to be the most active real estate seasons. The fall and winter seasons are when the number of sellers drops off, resulting in fewer total sales. Is that enough of a reason not to list your home right now?
There are some advantages to selling a home during the winter season that is often overlooked. Sellers can benefit from the fact that there are fewer listings on the market at this time of year, meaning buyers have a limited supply and less competition. Furthermore, with the upcoming holidays, both sellers and buyers will have more leave from work, resulting in more opportunities for showings and open houses.
Additionally, sellers get motivated buyers. Those who start looking for a house at this time of year are more likely to be determined to find one. With this in mind, here are a few strategies to help you sell your home during the winter.
Check the price: Ask your agent to perform a comparative market analysis and look through the current listings and the recently sold properties; it is beneficial to compare your prices. Your real estate agent can assist you in determining the appropriate price for your home.
Improve your online listing: Many home buyers have opted to look for a home online before visiting. It is essential to showcase your home with professional pictures that are well-lit, clean, and staged. This will help you emphasize your home’s best features. Keep in mind that your online listing should contain all of the information they require about the house, the neighborhood, and the market.
Hire the right agent: Make sure you have a knowledgeable real estate agent like Randy and Heidi on your side. Because real estate is a local business, it is important to speak with an experienced real estate agent in your area who is familiar with local sales trends.
As lifelong Sonoma County residents, we are pleased to provide you with neighborhood-specific sales data so you can make an informed decision about when to list your home. Our focus is to listen and understand the goals you want to accomplish, offer our professional guidance by discussing alternatives, and establish a plan of action to achieve your personal real estate goals.
If you plan on listing your home during this winter season in Sonoma County, or would still want to wait for the spring and summer season, no matter how you decide, when you are ready to sell. Give us a call!
Kitchen Trends
Since the outbreak of the pandemic, homeowners have been eager to spruce up their living spaces. According to the 2022 U.S. Houzz and Home Study, the kitchen is the most popular space that many homeowners choose to renovate. Trends in kitchen design continue to evolve, with upgraded technology in fixtures and appliances, creating more storage, and using earth-tone accents. Making each space multifunctional to maximize what the house is capable of offering.
Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops are inexpensive, warm, inviting, and add character to your kitchen. Wood’s functionality and beauty add a rustic, authentic feel to a kitchen.
Green Shades
The green shade is a very soothing color that has a subtle tone but a strong appeal. That will give your kitchen a relaxing look.
Double Islands
A double kitchen island typically serves two distinct functions. They are typically parallel, but they can also be side by side or configured in any way that you would like. Double kitchen islands separate prep and dining/work areas, breaking up the monotony of the layout and adding much-needed interest in a large open plan space. They’re also one of those kitchen ideas that can work in smaller spaces.
Marble
Marble is a luxurious material that can be used in any room of the house. It is a magnificent option for kitchen countertops. Marble kitchen countertops give the room a striking and sophisticated appearance. In any room, they look fantastic and luxurious. They can also increase the value of your home.
If you’re looking for inspiration for a new kitchen remodel, hopefully, this may have given you a few ideas.
How to Decorate Your First Home
Moving to a first home must be one of the most exciting events in everyone’s lives. Making new memories, purchasing new furniture, and putting your home décor ideas into reality. Decorating your home can be overwhelming; even if you already have a design or style in your mind, it helps to know some tips to transform your home smoothly.
Below, you will find a variety of tips to help you decorate your first home.
1. Declutter Your Current House
You should segregate all of your belongings as to which of your possessions are going to stay and which are not. Check all of them as to which ones will go with the style of your new home and its functions.
2. Decorate the Bedroom/s First
The bedroom is where we spend most of our time; where we relax and find our peace. Decorating can be a real challenge, having your own space ready and clean after a long day will help you destress.
3. Purchase Your Furniture Slowly
While it can be tempting to purchase all of the interiors in one go as you already have a style in mind and would want to get it over with – slowly decorating your space allows you to identify issues, allowing you to easily modify your decorations.
4. Create a Budget
Ensure that you are decorating smart. It’s easy to get carried away while looking for things that perfectly suit your style and end up buying expensive items. Create a budget and stick to it and you will find better options to improve the visual appeal and functionality of your space.
In conclusion, decorating your first home can be a hefty task, but it is possible to follow your home décor inspiration with proper planning and execution. If you’ve been thinking about how to start transforming your first home and making it your own, we hope that these tips would have been a help.
Sonoma County Market Trends
Heidi and I share over 40 years of experience in both residential and commercial real estate. We are setting new standards by refining the art of residential brokerage with a practiced eye for identifying the unique value of a property. We are very well versed in current real estate trends and offer our clients exceptional expertise when positioning their homes in today’s market or evaluating and securing an upcoming purchase.
The first couple of months of the year 2022 has been tough for the world, just as recovery from the pandemic seemed within reach, the current war has affected everyone’s lives. It has been an intense year, but we are thrilled to present you with the update on the Spring Real Estate in Sonoma County.
Properties sold 67% higher than last month and 14% lower than the same 1st Quarter of 2021.
The volume of new listings is 43% lower than last month and 49% lower than the same 1st Quarter of 2021.
Average Days on Market is 3% lower than last month and 30% lower than the same 1st Quarter of 2021.
“March sales data continues to suggest strong buying interest and a solid housing market, as the effects of higher mortgage interest rates won’t be realized for a few more months,” said CAR Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine.
Rates may stabilize, rise further, or drop back down – they can change very quickly. The market is unpredictable, that’s why it is important to consult a real estate agent for a specific analysis of the neighborhood where you’re selling or buying. An informed decision goes a long way. Call us to establish a plan to achieve your personal real estate goals.
Adjustable-rate Mortgage
An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a mortgage loan with the interest rate on the note periodically adjusted based on an index that reflects the cost to the lender of borrowing on the credit markets. The loan may be offered at the lender’s standard variable rate/base rate. There may be a direct and legally defined link to the underlying index, but where the lender offers no specific link to the underlying market or index, the rate can be changed at the lender’s discretion. The term “variable-rate mortgage” is most common outside the United States, whilst “adjustable-rate mortgage” is most common in the United States and implies a mortgage regulated by the Federal government, with caps on charges. In many countries, adjustable-rate mortgages are the norm, and in such places, may simply be referred to as mortgages. (“Adjustable-rate mortgage,” n.d.)
“A 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage has an average rate of 5.03%, an uptick of 13 basis points from seven days ago. For the first five years, you’ll typically get a lower interest rate with a 5/1 ARM compared to a 30-year fixed mortgage. However, you may end up paying more after that time, depending on the terms of your loan and how the rate adjusts with the market rate. If you plan to sell or refinance your house before the rate changes, an ARM may make sense for you. If not, shifts in the market may significantly increase your interest rate.” Justin Jaffe, cnet.com
To know if an ARM is a right fit for you, here are its pros and cons:
Adjustable-rate mortgages are risky, but as interest rates rise, more homebuyers are starting to consider them. ARMs have lower initial interest rates than 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, but the rate will change after a set period. Borrowers must then pay the fixed rate when their lock period expires, which can be risky if interest rates are rising at the time.
If you would like to know whether the ARMs or Fixed Mortgage is for you, Heidi and I will be there for you to give you the knowledge to have an informed decision—with our experience, you can count on us. Call us!
Outdoor living space
With the arrival of the warmer months, homeowners have been enthusiastic about decorating their outdoor environment. As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to spread and with more time spent at home and fewer opportunities for inside socializing, our outdoor spaces are more important than ever and their value continues to grow across the country.
The year 2022 is shaping up to be one of the most significant in the history of outdoor living spaces. Outdoor space design is becoming increasingly engaging, focusing on all those aspects that fulfill the demands of individuals who use it daily. Furthermore, having a useful and peaceful outdoor setting promotes and allows us to spend more time outside, which not only benefits our mental and physical health but also strengthens family relationships as this provides the opportunity to spend time with our loved ones.
As a result, architects and interior designers are paying closer attention to the various techniques that can transform an outdoor space into a pleasant and stylish living space like these:
The colors of the year 2022 feature earth-toned hues that make any place feel warm and welcoming, and choosing a nature-inspired furniture shade may instantly add comfort to a room. Picking hues suggestive of the outdoors, from deep reds and tans to inviting calm grays and beige, creates a tranquil outdoor environment. An outdoor living room can be used for a variety of purposes, including home offices and garden rooms, which are common amongst sophisticated homeowners. However, there is another compelling incentive to incorporate an outside space into our home: ours and our family’s health. It can be used to unwind, enjoy nature, and entertain family and friends in a comfortable and stylish living environment.
In addition, the hanging chair is one of the top furniture picks to be added to your outdoor living space, this chair is popular because of its coziness, longevity, and eye-catching patterns. Due to this, the demand for this stunning piece of furniture shows no signs of slowing down.
The chair is typically made of wicker or rattan and accented with a comfortable cushion, all of which is supported by a solid metal frame. Wicker adds an artisanal touch and aesthetic appeal without costing a fortune. Its neutral color blends perfectly with practically any existing design concept in your outdoor environment. The hanging chair is an excellent choice for unwinding.
Outdoor living space may improve our lifestyle in different ways, whether it’s for some quiet personal time to meditate or read a book, or entertainment purposes for family and friends; this concept will certainly help reduce stress levels and allows focusing on having both happier and healthier mind. If you have been looking for some ideas for an outdoor living space design, hopefully, this article would have been a help.