Randy Mack | Realtor | 707.696.6272

    Heidi Faulkner | Realtor | 707.480.4098

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Navigating the Closing Process: A Guide for Homebuyers

Real estate closing process

The closing process is the final step in a real estate transaction. Although this process seems overwhelming, it can be a smooth experience with proper planning.

If you plan to purchase a property, we are here to provide insights about this process.

Closing Process Timeline

You may expect to close 30 to 45 days after the contract is signed. However, this timeframe can vary depending on different circumstances, such as mortgage approval and the complexity of the transaction.

The Escrow Process

You are officially in escrow once both parties have signed the purchase agreement. Escrow refers to a financial arrangement in which a third party, the escrow agent, holds the deposited earnest money.

The escrow process typically involves the following:

  1. Opening the escrow account
  2. Completing the inspection and repair requests
  3. Mortgage application and underwriting
  4. Appraisal
  5. Acquiring homeowners insurance and title insurance
  6. Loan approval
  7. Final walk-through
  8. Closing appointment

Is Earnest Money Refundable?

NAR, Earnest Money & Escrow Real Estate: There are several scenarios when a buyer could face forfeiting their earnest money. If a buyer waives contingencies, ignores timelines, or gets cold feet, it could mean losing the earnest money deposit.

When it comes to real estate, a case of buyer’s remorse could be even more painful than a lost deposit. To avoid both, ensure the home you’re bidding on is “the one.”

How Much Are Closing Costs?

Zillow: Buyer closing costs are usually between 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. For example, if the home costs $300,000, you might pay between $6,000 and $15,000 in closing costs.

A lot of factors impact how much you’ll pay in closing costs. For buyers, it depends on your loan program, the size of the loan, and individual lender practices. For sellers, it comes down to what you’ve negotiated in terms of concessions and agent commission.

Track Your Closing Costs

Be prepared and know who’s responsible for the fees and expenses at the closing table. We have prepared a worksheet to help you track your closing costs.

Homeowners Insurance

A homeowners insurance policy will protect you against certain losses and damage to your new home and is generally required by lenders before closing.

Moreover, some lenders will collect the money you owe for homeowners insurance as part of your monthly mortgage payment and place it in an escrow account, paying the insurer on your behalf when the bill is due.

Title Insurance

Title insurance protects your ownership right to your home; from fraudulent claims against your ownership and mistakes made in earlier sales.

Additionally, in some states, it is customary for the seller to purchase the policy on your behalf.

Final Walk-Through

Conduct a final walk-through of the property before closing. To guarantee that the house is in the same or better condition if you negotiated repairs after the home inspection.

Here’s a detailed list of what to check on your final walk-through.

Transfer of Ownership

Once all the documents are signed, funds are transferred, and the closing is complete, property ownership officially transfers to you. 

Congratulations! At this point, you will receive the keys to your new home.

In Conclusion,

Preparation is vital; from gathering all necessary documentation to conducting a thorough home inspection. 

Also, staying in close communication with your real estate agent and other parties involved will keep you updated on the progress.

Furthermore, we understand that the closing process can be daunting, and we are here to help you fill the gaps in your home-buying knowledge. Call us, and we will establish a plan to achieve your personal real estate goals.

Finally, best of luck on your journey, and may your new home bring you years of happiness and fulfillment!

Posted in: Home Buying, Real Estate Resources Tagged: #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #closingprocess, #forestville, #healdsburg, #homebuyer, #homebuyerguide, #homeownership, #luxuryhome, #luxuryrealestate, #mackfaulkner, #petaluma, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realestatetips, #realtor, #sebastopol, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #windsor, HeidiFaulkner, RandyMack, santarosa

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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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!

Posted in: General, Home Buying, Home Selling, Real Estate Resources, Real Estate Trends + Stats Tagged: #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #forestville, #forestvillerealestate, #healdsburg, #healdsburgrealestate, #homebuyer, #homeownership, #interestrates, #luxuryhome, #luxuryrealestate, #mack-faulknerrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #mackfaulkner, #mortgagerates, #petaluma, #petalumarealestate, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realestatemarket, #realtor, #sebastopol, #sebastopolrealesate, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sothebysrealestate, #windsor, #windsorrealestate, HeidiFaulkner, RandyMack, santarosa, santarosarealestate, Sellingyourhome

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

Photo by Crissy Pascual/Petaluma Argus-Courier

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

Photo by Christopher Chung

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

Photo by John Burgess / The Press Democrat

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

Photo by Lizzie Simon

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

Photo by Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat

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

Photo by Alvin Jornada/The Press Democrat

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.

Posted in: General, Home Buying, Real Estate Trends + Stats Tagged: #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #forestville, #healdsburg, #homebuyer, #homeownership, #luxuryhome, #mackandfaulkner, #petaluma, #realestate, #realestateagent, #sebastopol, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #windsor, santarosa

Sonoma County First-time Home Buyer Loans in 2023

Purchasing a home can seem like a completely overwhelming endeavor. After all, it is one of the most significant investments you can make, with numerous steps and requirements.

However, various types of loans are available to Sonoma County first-time home buyers who require assistance.

First-time home buyer loans:

The average down payment for a house in California is between 15% and 20% of the purchase price. If you can afford this price, you can get a conventional loan with a low-interest rate.

However, there is some first-time home buyer who doesn’t have this much money saved for a down payment. Fortunately, there are mortgage plans that have a low-down payment:

VA loan: Sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Loans are open to veterans, reservists, active-duty personnel, and surviving spouses and are one of the only options available for zero down payment loans.

FHA loan: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans are open to anyone, and while they require a down payment, they can be as low as 3.5 percent. Drawbacks include a slower loan process and the need to pay mortgage insurance for FHA loans.

USDA loan: Organized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of its Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan program. USDA offers financing with no down payment, lenient requirements, and competitive mortgage rates.

Conventional 97: With Fannie Mae, you may qualify to borrow up to 97% of the value of your home, leaving you with only 3% to cover your down payment. This type of loan requires a credit score of 620 and higher, and at least one of the borrowers must qualify as a first-time home buyer.

If you’re not sure which type of loan to get when buying your first home, your lender or realtor can help you find the right fit based on your finances, and your realtor can also guide you by discussing alternatives and developing a plan of action to achieve your personal real estate goals.

How to choose your realtor on your first home-buying:

When choosing a realtor, it’s essential to know how long they have been in residential real estate. Like most professions, experience is no guarantee of skill. However, a large portion of real estate is learned on the job. Randy and I bring 45 years of industry experience in residential, commercial, and land sales.

We are here to help you fill the gaps in your home-buying knowledge. The more familiar you are with the procedure, the less overwhelming it will be.

If you are considering becoming a homeowner in Sonoma County, we hope you’ll give us a call. There is never any obligation, of course—and the old saying is true in this case: it can’t hurt to ask!

Posted in: General, Home Buying, Real Estate Resources Tagged: #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #forestville, #healdsburg, #homebuyer, #homeownership, #interestrates, #luxuryhome, #luxuryrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #mackfaulkner, #mortgagerates, #petaluma, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realtor, #sebastopol, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sothebysrealestate, #windsor, HeidiFaulkner, RandyMack, santarosa

Home Design Trends You Need to Know in 2023

The new year is upon us, signifying a time of change and new beginnings. Home design trends come in waves and now feels like the perfect time for a change.

If you are looking to buy a new home or make changes to your current one, you are probably curious about the design trends that will be popular in 2023.

 

Color of the year

According to The Psychology of Color in Spaces by Stoneside, color psychology focuses on color to create a specific atmosphere and mood. Hues are carefully chosen to invoke a certain emotional response in people and set a particular mood.

Furthermore, research into color theory has ascribed defined emotions to each hue, and it also takes into account various factors such as tint, saturation, and tone.

Moreover, if you have been thinking of repainting your walls, colors that bring warmth and coziness to the room are relevant in the year 2023.

However, this does not mean that you should avoid the darker hues entirely, as they will help you create a sleek and sophisticated space, so keep this in mind when designing your interior.

  • Warm White 

This color is neutral and has always been the safest pick. As a result, it allows you to use richer, brighter furniture or even go with the classic beige, which is the most versatile tone to create that warmth and calming effect.

  • Desert Carnation
Photo courtesy of Valspar

If you want to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, use earth-tone colors because they promote a nature-friendly atmosphere that creates a sense of tranquility.

  • Blue Arrow
Photo courtesy of Valspar

“A shade that promotes balance within the home, merging cool tones of blue with a warm undertone.”

– Sue Kim, Valspar®

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dark Countertops

Dark countertops add character to your kitchen, giving it a dramatic look and strong appeal. This design can result in a refreshing, luxurious, and moody appearance.

 

Organized Space

Photo courtesy of Latham Interiors

Gena Kirk, Design expert in KB Home Design Studio says, “we’re seeing a lot less desire for open shelving—a very big trend for a long time—and glass front doors. We’re seeing customers who want to close things up and organize them well.”

Additionally, if you want to keep clutter at bay, invest in some furniture with hidden compartments to help you store your belongings without taking up any additional space in a room.

 

Minimalism

Minimalism has been a thing for some time and is here to stay. This interior design creates a simple and clean space that usually uses a monochromatic color scheme.

Kristin Hohenadel, Interior Design Expert, says that “minimalist design is about prioritizing the essentials. A minimalist building, object, or interior design is stripped to its core function, realized using limited materials, neutral colors, simple forms, and avoiding excess ornamentation to achieve a pure form of elegance.

Additionally, while the final expression of a minimalist design might appear effortlessly simple, as spare as a poem, and as clear as a bell, achieving this kind of powerful simplicity is anything but easy.”

In line with this, the overall takeaway from what design experts anticipate will emerge in 2023 is a functional, inviting, natural, and comfortable space.

If you are looking for ideas for a new kitchen, bedroom, living room, or other home space to remodel, this will hopefully help.

Finally, we wish you a happy new year! May it be filled with new adventures and good fortunes. We look forward to helping you with all your real estate needs in 2023. Give us a call!

Posted in: General, Home Buying, Renovation + Build to Suit Tagged: #artisansothebys, #designtrends, #forestville, #healdsburg, #homebuyer, #homedesign, #homeownership, #interior, #interiordesign, #luxuryhome, #luxuryrealestate, #mackfaulkner, #petaluma, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realtor, #renovation, #sebastopol, #sonomacounty, #windsor, santarosa

Sonoma Holiday

Holiday

 

We are approaching the holiday season this year filled with joy and gratitude. Since the pandemic, many of us didn’t get to celebrate the holidays in close contact with our friends and families.

 

Fortunately, we can now celebrate the holidays similarly to pre-pandemic times for the first time in years, as most restrictions have been lifted.

 

The American can-do spirit has stood tall against the challenges we have endured these past few years. Every year, Sonoma County demonstrates this by gathering as a unified community.

 

Additionally, Sonoma County has a way of bringing everyone together and making them feel welcome.

 

Moreover, the holiday season is always hectic. To help with your planning for what to do this time of year and to experience the best that Northern California has to offer, we have prepared a list of some of the most exciting and fun-filled events and activities in our area.

 

Sonoma Holiday Events and Activities:

Winter Art Market– Over 50 artists will participate, including everything from classes to ceramics, clothing to cartoons. Enjoy a festive shopping experience, music, wine, and fun.

Merry Healdsburg Weekend – Celebrate the holidays on the Plaza with the second annual Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting. Enjoy a winter wonderland downtown with carriage rides, live holiday music, and more.

The Festival of Christmas – A free festival filled with live music performed by the Casa Grande Concert Choir, Kenilworth Junior High Jazz Band, and Christmas carolers.

Winter Lights Rink – Skating on the Square – Winter Lights is Santa Rosa’s destination for season-long holiday fun with Skating on the Square, the annual tree lighting celebration, live performances, and holiday shopping and dining opportunities.

 

However, these are only a few of the many things to do in Sonoma County this holiday season. There are more activities and events to attend within your specific range of interest. You may find all of the event dates and information here.

 

Finally, the last few years have been hard on everyone. While the pandemic represented a communal challenge, the resilience of the Sonoma County community provided inspiration that kept everyone moving forward. We feel grateful to be a part of this community. We hope that you can be a part of it too. Amidst the holidays, we are still here and always willing to support you in any way we can; give us a call!

 

We conclude with this final quote from Agnes M. Pharo and wish you all happy holidays!

Christmas Quote

Posted in: General, General Tagged: #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #forestville, #healdsburg, #holidayactivities, #holidayevents, #holidayseason, #mack-faulknerrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #mackfaulkner, #northerncalifornia, #petaluma, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realtor, #sebastopol, #sellersagent, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sonomaholiday, #windsor, #winecountry, #winecountrylife, #winecountryliving, santarosa

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.

Posted in: Real Estate Trends + Stats Tagged: #artisansothebys, #homeownership, #luxuryrealestate, #mack-faulknerrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #petaluma, #petalumarealestate, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realestatemarket, #realtor, #realtors, #sebastopol, #sebastopolagent, #sebastopolrealesate, #Sebastopolrealestate, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sonomastrong, #sothebysrealestate, #springrealestate, #windsor, #windsorrealestate

Deja Vu

woman standing in front of real estate brochures

Real estate is not unlike life. We experience pockets of time full of high-energy activity, coupled with slower, more quiet periods where we can reflect and regroup, followed by time frames of equality and balance and very little drama. Real estate is no different.

 

Once again, we are experiencing a frenzy of activity in the real estate market. Homes are selling before making it to the MLS; bidding wars, combined with higher prices and low inventory, are making buyers and sellers tense. Randy and I have experienced this type of extreme market before and are well versed in navigating both buyers and sellers through the experience.

 

For many reasons, people are moving all over the country, not just Sonoma County. Some are moving to level up their lifestyle. Some are downsizing, some have experienced a divorce or significant life change, and some want to live in an area more conducive to staying home for long stretches. The pandemic caused the market to skyrocket. Real estate is booming all across the United States; Sonoma County is not alone.

 

Our advice to both buyers and sellers is to stay calm, be prepared, and align yourself with a professional realtor to look out for your best interest throughout your transaction.

 

Buyers need to be prepared to overbid and not lose heart. Have an open mind and a realistic picture of what their must-haves are in a home. Ensure you are working with a Realtor who knows the area well and is experienced working with the other local agents, and is willing to be patient and go that extra mile with you.

 

Even in a seller’s market, sellers need to price at fair market value and have their property show-ready. Buyers are not interested in overpriced homes that are not well maintained.

 

One of the biggest challenges sellers face right now is scheduling inspections- well, septic and appraisals. Professionals all over the area are booking 3-4 weeks out. We suggest sellers get most of these types of inspections completed before even going on the market if possible. We see many properties under contract before they even come on the market, making the sellers who completed their inspections and property clean-up before listing their homes much better suited to having an easy transfer of ownership.

 

We recommend taking a deep breath and have confidence; no matter which side of the transaction you are on, you will get through it and enjoy whatever lies on the other side for you.

Posted in: Real Estate Trends + Stats Tagged: #agent, #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #forestville, #forestvillerealestate, #healdsburg, #healdsburgrealestate, #homebuyer, #homeownership, #luxuryhome, #luxuryrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #petaluma, #petalumarealestate, #propertyforsale, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realestatemarket, #realtor, #realtors, #sebastopol, #sebastopolagent, #sebastopolrealesate, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sothebysrealestate, #springrealestate, #windsor, #windsorrealestate

Spring Has Sprung!

The birds are chirping, the grasses are growing, the flowers are blooming, and real estate is hopping! After such an intense and challenging year, we are thrilled to have a full calendar showing property and the fast-paced nature of Spring Real Estate in Sonoma County.

 

 

We have seen a lot of improvement in the Real Estate market. Properties sold 33% higher than last month and 21% higher than the same 1st Quarter of 2020.

 

 

There is an average 5% increase in price-per-square-foot to last month and a 28% increase in price-per-square-foot to 2020.

 

 

Rounding out the statistics, the average days on the market, because inventory is still low, is now 23% lower than last month, and 15% lower than last month, and 27% lower than 2020.

 

There is a lot to be said for the real estate market improving; people are gaining confidence in our economy and the local area. We are seeing statistics reminiscent of Springs past that demonstrate the positive momentum moving into the summer.

 

Hang in there, Sonoma County. We are looking to fully reopen soon and resume our lives to the fullest.

 

Happy Spring!

Posted in: Real Estate Trends + Stats Tagged: #artisansothebys, #homeownership, #luxuryrealestate, #mack-faulknerrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #petaluma, #petalumarealestate, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realestatemarket, #realtor, #realtors, #sebastopol, #sebastopolagent, #sebastopolrealesate, #Sebastopolrealestate, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sonomastrong, #sothebysrealestate, #springrealestate, #windsor, #windsorrealestate

Sonoma County Real Estate 2019 and 2020

As we do every year, we took a quick look back at the 2019 Sonoma County Real Estate Market. We reflected on what had the most profound impact on the housing market and some of the trends we are anticipating from Buyers and Sellers in 2020.

Two of the most significant pressures on the real estate market this year were the Kincaid wildfire and continued uncertainty of the Federal government.

The wildfires we have experienced over the last several years will continue to impact our housing market in multiple ways. The displacement of families, loss of property, and a shortage of rentals put stress on the real estate market. The Kincaid fire has been no exception.

As we have seen over the last few years, when there is political uncertainty globally or locally, the housing market is impacted.

Move in Ready HomeWe look closely at housing trends in the market that we witness throughout the year and try to gauge their importance in the coming year. We have seen that buyers expect that home must be move-in ready; the days of building sweat equity are almost non-existent. Sellers need to make sure their homes are clean, move-in ready, and devoid of issues that need fixing after closing.

2019 Housing Market TrendsIn general, the 2019 housing inventory increased, prices went down, and there were plenty of buyers, although they were not acting quickly.

For Sale Sold Pended 2019Looking at the data over the past year, we seem to be right back where we started the previous year. Days on the market are similar, pricing is about the same, and the absorption of our inventory remains steady. We had a spike in May, but we also had an increase in stock. Overall we had a very stable year, and we are expecting the same in 2020.

As we slowly make our way into 2020, Randy is most looking forward to the new greenhouse he built in the summer of 2019 and planting some exotic peppers (ghost), amongst other vegetables. Heidi continues to family and friends, hikes throughout Sonoma County, and long bike rides.

Artisan Sotheby's Real Estate Office2019 was our first year in the new office on McKinley Street in downtown Sebastopol. Our location is very vibrant, and we feel more a part of the Sebastopol community. Clients and friends stop by while shopping at the nearby stores, and our door is always open. We are looking forward to helping you with all your real estate needs in 2020.

Posted in: Real Estate Trends + Stats Tagged: #agent, #artisansothebys, #buyersagent, #forestville, #healdsburg, #healdsburgrealestate, #homebuyer, #homeownership, #mack-faulknerrealestate, #mackandfaulkner, #petaluma, #petalumarealestate, #propertyforsale, #realestate, #realestateagent, #realestatemarket, #realtor, #realtors, #sebastopol, #sebastopolagent, #sonomacounty, #sonomacountyrealestate, #sothebysrealestate, #springrealestate, #windsor, #windsorrealestate, santarosa, santarosarealestate

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Randy Mack and Heidi Faulkner
Artisan Sotheby's International Realty
6984 McKinley Street
Sebastopol CA 95472
(707) 696-6272
(707) 480-4098
Fax: (707) 824-0587
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About Us

We are proud to have aligned ourselves with Artisan Sotheby’s International Realty an inspirational brand based on heritage, tradition and expertise. We are setting new standards by refining the art of residential brokerage with a practiced eye of identifying the unique value of a property. We offer a deep commitment to excellent service and have a passion for unparalleled quality. Unique homes require skillful marketing through our local expertise and Sotheby’s International Realty interconnected global network of offices that are dedicated to the extraordinary.

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I wish to express my satisfaction and confidence in your ability to find an ideal home for anyone that I would refer to you. My own experience in purchasing and selling a home with you allowed me to witness the fact that you are truly an expert in your field, handling all aspects of residential real estate transactions. From the beginning, your market analysis to the final stages of negotiations, your calm manner and clear explanation kept me knowing I was in the best of hands.

Mr. Mitchler
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Contact Us

Randy Mack - Realtor CA BRE#01252462
randy@mack-faulkner.com

(707) 696-6272
6984 McKinley Street
Sebastopol, CA 95472



Heidi Faulkner - Realtor CA BRE#01227446
Heidi@mack-faulkner.com

(707) 480-4098
6984 McKinley Street
Sebastopol, CA 95472



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