#mackandfaulkner – Artisan Sotheby's International Realty

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!

Renting vs. Buying a Home: Which is Better?

Which is better? Should you rent or buy a home? Because it requires less capital, renting is frequently perceived as less expensive than purchasing a home. Buying a home, on the other hand, is an investment that increases your equity. Aside from these obvious factors, there are others to consider. To assist you in deciding whether to rent or buy, we have listed the pros and cons of each option in this article.

Deciding between renting or buying a home depends on your lifestyle and financial situation. Do you intend to temporarily live in the area, maintain flexibility and mobility, or save money for a down payment? Renting might be the ideal decision for you. At least for the time being.

Alternatively, if you want to build investment equity over time while also having the stability and freedom to change your living space, now is the best time to buy a home.

Furthermore, in most cases, purchasing a home may save you money. Because the interest on your home mortgage is tax deductible, you will save money on taxes. If you rent, your landlord gets the break. Also, the sooner you buy a home, the sooner you can begin building equity in an investment that you can use for retirement or other investment plans. Why pay the landlord’s mortgage when you can pay your own?

Finally, you would want to evaluate the real estate market. Heidi and I are very knowledgeable about current real estate trends and offer our clients exceptional expertise in assessing and securing an upcoming purchase in the current market. If you have a dream home that you can’t wait to build or are still not sure whether renting or buying is the best option for you, contact us and let us help you with our professional advice.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Home

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant investments you can make. There are numerous factors to consider, it is important to know all of the facts first before making a decision. The overall housing situation is undoubtedly difficult, so there is no reason not to be cautious and thoughtful when approaching this topic. Before deciding on one to call your own, consider asking yourself these questions to make your future home-buying experience go more smoothly.

1. How much money have I set aside for a down payment?

The average down payment for a house in California is between 15% and 20% of the purchase price, but this can vary depending on your mortgage lender and financial situation.

Lenders will lend you hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars when you buy a house. Buyers, in turn, contribute a portion of the purchase price to gain initial equity in the property. Each mortgage option, however, is distinct, and homebuyers must determine which financing options are best for them. More money put down at closing results in lower monthly mortgage payments and interest.

As a result, California residents thinking about buying real estate should create a budget and start saving for a down payment well in advance of making a decision.

2. Is my credit score high enough?

If buying a home is one of your financial goals, think about the role a good credit history plays in the process. Most mortgage loans require a minimum credit score, and some lenders may have stricter requirements for certain borrowers.

3. Do I have a steady income?

A stable job, consistent income, and a good credit score are the best indicators of readiness. Your family situation must also be taken into account.

4. What kind of home do I like?

Before purchasing, ensure that the property offers everything that you look for in a home. It is vital to consider learning about its neighborhood and have it thoroughly inspected as it is critical to understand what repairs the house may require.

5. Can I trust my agent?

The right real estate agent can make or break your home-buying experience, so find one that you can truly rely on. Your agent should be able to give you an honest assessment of a home’s value, as well as the pros and cons of its size, location, and condition.

In conclusion, purchasing a home can be overwhelming in a competitive market and stressful during the best of times. Although, understanding what you are getting into, knowing what is required of you, and finding the right real estate agent will help you reach your goal smoothly.

Do you think you’re ready to become a homeowner? Heidi and I bring a combined 45 years of industry experience in residential, commercial, and land sales. We strive to provide the highest level of service in all phases of the buying and selling process. If you’re looking for your next Sebastopol real estate investment, Heidi and I can be there to serve as your voice—as well as to offer our experience, guidance, and advice you can count on. Call us!

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:

Photo from Slide 7 © Rosalinda Parks | Slideplayer.com

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.

Trendy Green walls and new floorplans

The new year is upon us, signifying a time of change and new beginnings. As we enter our third year of the Covid-19 pandemic, the role our homes play in our lives continues to evolve along with the pandemic. Where our homes were simply once a place for sleeping and relaxation, they have now morphed into living spaces, home offices, classrooms, and gyms, all in one house.

This has naturally sparked a change in the desired layout of our homes that can effectively meet all these needs. Spending more time in our homes has led to a quest to make each space multifunctional to maximize what the house is capable of offering. Gone are the days of the open floor plan. It has been replaced with dining rooms that double as offices, and guest units equipped with at-home gyms. Wide-open living rooms have been converted to smaller rooms in an effort to find privacy in a busy house. In an effort to avoid exposure, going out to bars and restaurants has become rare, so why not bring the bar to the safety of your own home? Interior designers are in high demand for design at home bars, built to personal preference.

Even with so much time spent at home, our lives are still hectic and it can be nice to find a place for peaceful refuge. Quiet spaces for reading or meditation have become very popular. Not only are the shapes of the spaces being reimagined, the decor and feeling of design have also begun to change.

Amidst the upheaval and uncertainty of the past two years, we crave a space that is warm and welcoming. The stark edges and all-white Scandinavian look that has been oh so popular has lost its appeal to the ideas of color and soft rounded edges. Design experts anticipate that the white walls will be painted over with dark browns and caramels, accented with the greens and blues of nature. While the color palette will mostly stay near the earth tones, the presence of color will bring so much more life to a room than white. The boxy couches will be replaced with soft curves and ruffles that evoke a feeling of comfort. To enhance this feeling of comfort there is a push to make the space feel lived in and welcoming. Designers are remarking that their clients are craving the old-world charm of antique furniture, reclaimed wood, and the plush comfort of armchair couches.

Being confined to the walls of our houses throughout the pandemic has led to a large amount of time spent walking through nature. This affinity for the outdoors is bound to weave its way into the designs of our homes. Not only will the colors of nature inspire color schemes, but natural materials will find their way into design. Walls will be graced with wallpapers inspired by nature’s botanical beauty. Countertops will be graced with reclaimed wood, terracotta, and stone. Even before the pandemic, plants had begun to appear along walls or in hanging pots as decoration. Not only do they add a natural touch to a room, but studies have shown that plants can improve air quality and reduce stress levels.

Design trends come in waves and now feels like the perfect time for a change. The overall takeaway from what design experts anticipate will emerge in the next year is a functional, inviting, natural, colorful, and comfortable space. If you’re looking for inspiration for a new kitchen or living room remodel hopefully this may give you a few ideas.

“The answer may not be at the beach but shouldn’t we at least check?”

Are you seeking sunshine, listening to the ocean waves, or vacation property of your own? Our newest listing in Dillon Beach is an extraordinary opportunity to purchase the best of all beach worlds. Take a sneak peek…

Bask in the elements and enjoy unparalleled relaxation from this private Dillon Beach contemporary home.

Sited with perfection on a premium oversized view lot, marvel at panoramic Pacific Ocean and coastline views encompassing Dillon Beach, Tomales Point, Tomales Bay, and Sugarloaf Mountain Peak. In addition to the sights, this home is surrounded by large native Cypress trees that provide a high degree of privacy. Together, the views and privacy create a feeling of sheer contentment.

This four-bedroom, three-bath home on Oceana Drive offers more than 2,700± square feet of indoor and outdoor living. Each bedroom provides a spacious layout, with a sumptuous owner’s suite. All bathrooms have high-efficiency Toto toilets.

This home has several decks: one with a propane fire pit and an enclosed patio with a Jacuzzi® hot tub off the main living area and a second off the owner’s suite for outdoor living. The home is heated by propane and a newer Bryant® furnace. There is also a CLIPPERCREEK charger for your electric car and an additional 30amp outlet.

On the main level, you will find a newer kitchen accented with a wall of mini glass subway tiles in Tahoe Blue. Appliances are all high-end, and the red Aga Range 6 gas burner is the room’s centerpiece. The vent hood is made by BEST® and has a commercial-grade blower attached. There is a Liebherr® refrigerator/freezer in stainless steel and an island that seats 4, housing a Franke® stainless steel double bowl deep sink with a Grohe® faucet. The countertops, including the island, are made of Silestone quartz.

The great room, complete with vaulted ceilings, is currently used for casual dining and entertaining. This room is equipped with a thermostat-controlled propane burning gas fireplace made by Morsøs® for those cold winter nights. The white-washed pine, wide plank floors add warmth and understated elegance to the living areas.

From the great room, wander into a bedroom (currently used as a media room) or up the extra wide staircase to the remaining bedrooms while catching a fantastic view of Tamales Point on the way up. The upstairs hallway/balcony is the perfect spot to showcase art or collectibles, and hay-colored Sisal® carpeting compliments the California coastal atmosphere.

With the owner’s suite on the first level, privacy is plentiful, with views of the coast and an outdoor deck. The en-suite bathroom with shower and soaking tub offer respite from the world.

A trap door in one of the closets allows access to a lower crawl space ideal for long-term storage. Additionally, the main level features laundry facilities with a Miele washer and dryer and the utility room housing the hot water heater and Bryant® furnace. There is also a ClipperCreek® charger for your electric car and an additional 30amp outlet.

Give us a call today for a private showing before this truly remarkable private coastal escape in Dillon Beach hits the market.

The distinctive and unique character of every property we list

Every property we list has a distinctive, unique character. It is our job to find the right buyer who appreciates all its individual qualities.

Heidi and I share over 40 years of experience in both residential and commercial real estate. We offer a deep commitment to providing our clients with exceptional service. Our focus is to listen and understand what you are looking for in a property. We offer our professional guidance by discussing options and alternatives and then establishing a plan to achieve your personal real estate goals.

Take a tour of a few of our current listings in Sonoma County. Reach out to schedule a private showing, or if you are in the market for a new home or real estate investment, you would like to discuss.

4940 Corrick Lane

Nestled high in the Mayacamas mountains at the doorsteps of the Valley of the Moon, this wine country estate takes in sweeping panoramic views from the San Francisco Bay, North, to the vineyards of the Russian River Valley. Combining the effortless sophistication of Hampton’s sensibility with the luxurious grandeur of a European Winery Estate, this is truly a one-of-a-kind residence where East Coast meets the West. Dramatic yet accessible, the thoughtful design enhances the changing atmosphere in each room as one moves throughout the home.

Unparalleled craftsmanship that entailed multiple years of intricately detailed work has come together to inspire columns, beams, and staircases that showcase exceptional residence.

This remarkable 35± acre gated estate offers a lifestyle of privacy overlooking the world-famous Sonoma Valley wine country, gateway to world-renowned wineries, a cyclists’ paradise, and the heart of California gastronomy, all within easy reach of the Pacific Ocean. Above the fog and below the weather, this property enjoys a unique micro-climate that is perfect year-round.

1937 Perth Avenue

Perched on a serene and private hillside in Highland Estates, this warm and inviting single-level home is the ideal country retreat while only minutes to every necessity. Enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings of redwoods, oaks, and a seasonal stream. This home features a great room concept with tons of natural light, gleaming hardwood floors, and updated baths boasting granite countertops and tile flooring. Entertaining is a breeze with easy access to an expansive deck and hot tub underneath the gazebo. The primary suite has a tranquil deck to enjoy your morning coffee while listening to the sounds of nature all around you. The property includes an attached two-car garage and a detached outbuilding ideal as an office, artist studio, or possible guest house. Truly a place to call home.

183 Mountain Vista Place

Welcome to Northern California’s most exciting and vibrant adult community (55+) – Oakmont Village. This dynamic community offers an abundance of outdoor activities for your enjoyment, including golf, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and a spa. Located in a peaceful cul-de-sac on a sizeable low-maintenance lot, this well-maintained Oakwood Model is light and airy with a great room concept, tile flooring throughout for easy cleaning and mobility. The living room boasts high-beamed ceilings, a fireplace, and large picture windows with views of Annadel State Park. The eat-in kitchen features rich maple cabinets and views of the backyard. The property includes updated baths and an attached two-car garage. Move into this home and play in the heart of the Valley of the Moon and Sonoma County Wine Country.

6695 Oakmont Drive

Take a tour of this well-maintained two-bedroom home conveniently located near the Berger Recreation Center and community activities. Enjoy all the Oakmont Community ( for 55 year-olds and over) has to offer, such as movies, seminars, a swimming pool, community concerts, bocce ball, and other gatherings. Also close to restaurants, tennis, and golf. This home is ready for a fresh look and upgrades.

We also have several commercial listings that might pique your investor interest. Both are multi-unit subdivisions ready for your vision.

6405 Old Redwood Highway

Creekwalk is a proposed 24 unit subdivision which was ready to submit for tentative map in 2016 by BKF Engineering.

6122 Old Redwood Highway

The Oaks is a proposed 36 unit subdivision consisting of three contiguous parcels located on the northeast corner of Merner and Old Redwood Hwy in Windsor.

6119 Old Redwood Highway

Fully leased investment with development potential located in a mixed area of residential and commercial. Two parcels totaling approximately 1.42 acres zoned CC.