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Cosy Holiday Home Trends 2025: Sonoma County Edition

Embrace the Warmth of Wine Country Living

As the evenings grow cooler and the vineyards turn golden, Sonoma County homes take on a special kind of warmth. Whether you’re hosting family for the holidays or preparing your home to sell, the 2025 holiday season is all about comfort, sustainability, and connection to place. Here’s how to bring that cosy, wine-country feel into your home this season.

1. Warm Neutrals + Wine-Country Hues

Inspired by the rolling hills and vineyard sunsets, this year’s palette celebrates earthy tones and nature-inspired warmth. Think caramel, terracotta, sage, and chocolate brown, colours that make any space feel grounded and timeless.

Design tip: Swap out throw pillows, blankets, or accent decor in these hues for an instant seasonal refresh.

2. Textural Layers & Local Artisanal Touches

Texture creates cosiness, and Sonoma County’s artisan community makes it easy to find unique pieces: layer chunky knits, boucle cushions, woven baskets, and live-edge wood furniture.

Shop local:

Chateau Sonoma – French country charm meets wine-country elegance.
Cottage Home Decor – Handmade slipcovers, vintage finds, and textural accessories.
Ireko – A go-to for interior design and warm, contemporary décor.

3. Sustainable & Natural Materials

Sonoma’s eco-minded culture continues to shape home trends. Homeowners are opting for reclaimed wood, bamboo, organic cotton, and recycled glass. All beautiful and planet-friendly.

Realtor insight: As a NAR Green Designee, I can tell you that sustainable upgrades don’t just feel good; they often add value and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

4. Soft, Ambient Lighting for the Season

As daylight fades earlier, cosy lighting becomes essential. Layer warm-toned lighting with table lamps, floor lamps, LED candles, and string lights to create a glow that feels inviting and calm.

Pro tip: Warm lighting flatters interiors, perfect for listing photos or open houses this season.

5. Hygge-Inspired Corners, California Style

Bring the Danish concept of hygge (comfort and contentment) into your Sonoma home. Create spaces for slowing down, like a reading nook with vineyard views, or an outdoor lounge with plush throws and a fire pit for those cool Northern California evenings.

6. Nature-Inspired Holiday Décor

Skip the plastic and go for natural, locally sourced decorations. Use eucalyptus garlands, grapevine wreaths, pinecones, and dried florals from nearby markets. These bring subtle scents and textures that feel both festive and authentic to the region.

Bonus: Local greenery lasts longer and supports small growers.

7. Elevated Minimalism

This holiday season, less is more. Choose meaningful, handcrafted pieces that tell a story rather than overdecorating. A reclaimed-wood centrepiece, artisan ornaments, or a locally made candle adds warmth without clutter.

Why This Matters for Home Sellers

If you’re selling your home this fall or winter, these cosy, Sonoma-inspired touches can help buyers imagine living there. A home that feels comfortable, grounded, and thoughtfully styled stands out, especially in cooler months when emotional connection drives decisions.

Tip: Staging with texture, light, and warmth helps listings shine in holiday-season marketing photos.

Closing Costs: What Buyers & Sellers Should Expect in 2025

When buying or selling a home in 2025, remember to consider more than just the price. Closing costs are fees you need to pay at the end of the real estate transaction. It’s important to budget for these costs.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, knowing about closing costs ahead of time helps you avoid surprises and plan your finances better.

Closing Costs for Buyers

For buyers, closing costs typically range between 2% and 5% of the purchase price. These costs may include:

Loan Origination Fees – Charged by your lender to process your mortgage.
Appraisal Fee – Ensures the property’s value matches the purchase price.
Credit Report Fee – Covers the cost of your credit check.
Title Search & Title Insurance – Protects against title disputes.
Home Inspection Fee – Provides peace of mind before purchase.
Escrow Fees – Paid to the escrow company overseeing the transfer.
Prepaid Property Taxes & Homeowners Insurance – Collected upfront for your escrow account.
Recording Fees – Charged by the county for legal documentation.

Tip for Buyers: Always review your Loan Estimate from the lender, as it outlines your expected buyer closing costs, so you can plan.

Closing Costs for Sellers

Sellers face their own set of fees, which typically fall between 8% and 10% of the home’s sale price (largely due to commissions). Common seller closing costs include:

Real Estate Agent Commissions – Usually 5%–6%, split between buyer’s and seller’s agents.
Title Insurance (for the Buyer) – Often paid by the seller, depending on local custom.
Escrow Fees – Shared with the buyer.
Outstanding Taxes or HOA Fees – Must be settled before closing.
Repairs or Credits – Negotiated during inspection.
Attorney Fees – Required in some states.

Tip for Sellers: Ask your agent for a net sheet. It gives a clear estimate of your proceeds after seller closing costs are deducted.

Average Closing Costs Breakdown

Buyers: 2%–5% of purchase price

Sellers: 6%–10% of the sale price

Example: On a $500,000 home:

Buyers may spend $10,000–$25,000.

Sellers may spend $30,000–$50,000.

You can use this calculator to estimate your closing cost.

Is it possible to negotiate closing costs?

Many closing costs are negotiable. You should discuss fees like origination fees with your lender and compare prices for services such as title insurance and home appraisals. Sellers can also help by covering some costs through “seller concessions.” However, government fees, property taxes, and insurance premiums typically cannot be negotiated.

When do I pay closing costs?

You pay closing costs at the end of the home-buying process, on the day you finalise the purchase. Typically, you will bring a cashier’s check or arrange a wire transfer for these costs.

Closing costs can feel complicated, but when explained clearly, they’re simply part of the home-buying or selling journey. By understanding real estate closing costs in 2025, both buyers and sellers can budget effectively and move forward with confidence.

Thinking about buying or selling a home in Sonoma County? We’d be happy to walk you through the costs and help you prepare for a smooth closing. Call us today!

Real Estate Predictions for 2025

As we get closer to 2025, the real estate market is about to change significantly due to economic shifts and buyer preferences. This blog will highlight key predictions that might affect the housing market. This will help you find both opportunities and challenges coming your way.

1. Increased Demand for Suburban and Secondary Markets

The migration to suburban areas during the pandemic has had a lasting impact. As many workers have transitioned to remote and hybrid work models, many have chosen to settle in suburban and secondary cities.

In 2025, we anticipate continued interest in these secondary markets, as many buyers prioritise affordability, larger living spaces, and a high quality of life.

Pro Tip: If you’re considering selling in these areas, this could be a prime time to list your property.

2. Sustainability Takes Center Stage

Green homes will be a major focus as buyers prioritise energy-efficient features and sustainable materials. Properties equipped with solar panels, energy-saving appliances, and smart home systems will command higher premiums, creating a home so efficient it pays you back.

If you are looking for a new, more resource-efficient property, Randy Mack a REALTOR® with NAR’s GREEN Designation can help.

3. Rising Interest Rates Stabilize

While interest rates have been a hot topic recently, 2025 may bring more stability. This could encourage hesitant buyers to re-enter the market, though affordability will remain a key concern.

According to Freddie Mac, since September, rates have been on the rise again and ended the month of November at 6.81% after hitting 2-year lows of 6.08% in late September. Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of REALTORS®, says the rates should stabilise at the low end of that range for 2025 and 2026.

NAR, What’s Next for the 2025 Housing Market?: Factors that could change Yun’s forecast: a reduction in the budget deficit, an easing of housing regulations holding up home builders, or a significant increase in the labour force to help lower inflationary pressures. In such cases, “mortgage rates could come down quickly,” Yun noted.

Pro Tip: Buyers should monitor rates closely and consider locking in when favourable terms are available.

4. Fewer Deals for Renters

Renters who received good deals in 2024 because of many new apartment buildings may find fewer offers in 2025. The pace of new construction is expected to slow down, with new rental buildings predicted to drop by 21% in the first half of 2025 and further declines expected throughout the year.

This drop in available apartments will likely stabilize rental prices and give renters less power to negotiate for extras like a free month of rent.

5. Increased Housing Inventory

Inventory levels are up by 27% compared to last year. New home construction is also rising, which could help ease housing costs. Yun predicts a continued increase in housing inventory and new builds through 2025.

Housingwire: As it continues, we’re slowly getting closer to the old normal levels. While we have 27% more homes for sale now than last year, we have 22% fewer homes on the market than at the end of 2018. By the end of next year, we should be back to old normal inventory level.

6. Positive Outlook for Home Sales

Improved job numbers and recent stock market gains could encourage more Americans to act on their homebuying plans.

NAR: Pending home sales rose 3% year-over-year in September 2024, suggesting that “the worst is over,” according to Yun. With growing inventory and pent-up demand from a population increase of 70 million since 1995, the housing market may be poised for a strong rebound.

7. Millennial and Gen Z Buyers Dominate

Younger generations will continue to drive the housing market, bringing preferences for tech-savvy homes, walkable neighbourhoods, and urban amenities.

Sellers should consider these trends when marketing properties.

8. Increased Focus on Climate Resilience

With climate change impacts becoming more pronounced, properties in areas prone to natural disasters will need to prioritize resilience. Buyers will seek homes with features like reinforced structures and flood protection.

The real estate market in 2025 offers new opportunities and challenges. Knowing these trends can help you manage your buying, selling, or investing with confidence. Being prepared and adaptable will be essential for success in the coming year.

If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to reach out. A knowledgeable real estate agent can provide invaluable insights, helping you make informed decisions in this dynamic market. Call us!

Home Improvement Projects to Increase Resale Value

Are you considering selling your home and looking to maximise its resale value? Home improvements can be a powerful tool for increasing the appeal and marketability of your property.

Whether you’re preparing to sell soon or want to enhance your home’s value with a return on investment (ROI) in mind, this is a smart financial move.

Home Improvements with the Best ROI

1. HVAC Conversion (Electrification)

According to the 2023 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodelling by JLC for the Pacific Region, converting a fossil-fuel-burning furnace to an electric heat pump and installing new lines and wall units has the highest ROI.

The conversion project is costly, but the ROI is outstanding at over 100%.

Average cost: $18,873
Average resale value: $19,770
Cost recouped: 104.8%

2. Focus on Curb Appeal

Make a positive first impression when selling your house. Since the exterior is what potential buyers see first, update the exterior of your home with landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, or spruce up your entryway.

As per the report, these curb appeal enhancers have the highest returns:

- Garage Door Replacement

Average cost: $4,756
Average resale value: $4,604
Cost recouped: 96.8%
- Entry Door Replacement (Steel)

Average cost: $3,839
Average resale value: $3,406
Cost recouped: 88.7%
- Manufactured Stone Veneer

Average cost: $11,785
Average resale value: $9,973
Cost recouped: 84.6%

3. Siding Replacement

The siding of a house is one of the most prominent features of its exterior. If it appears worn out or shabby, it can ruin the overall appearance of the whole property. It might be worth contemplating replacing the old siding with newer, better-quality materials.

There are two durable materials to consider for your home’s exterior: fibre-cement and vinyl, offering a modern and fresh look while providing long-lasting protection from the elements.

Vinyl

Average cost: $18,228
Average resale value: $17,922
Cost recouped: 98.3%

Fibre-cement

Average cost: $19,765
Average resale value: $17,172
Cost recouped: 86.9%

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

The kitchen is often regarded as the heart of the home and can significantly impact a buyer’s decision.

Upgrade old appliances, install modern countertops, or refresh cabinets with a new coat of paint or updated hardware. Even small changes can make a big difference.

Average cost: $28,057
Average resale value: $22,221
Cost recouped: 79.2%

5. Window Replacement

This home improvement project enhances the interior look and also has practical benefits. You can reduce energy bills and boost comfort with energy-efficient windows.

It’s a worthy investment that can pay off in the long run.

Vinyl

Average cost: $22,299
Average resale value: $15,215
Cost recouped: 68.2%

Wood

Average cost: $26,528
Average resale value: $15,336
Cost recouped: 57.8%

6. Bathroom Remodel (Midrange)

Bathrooms are another area that buyers pay close attention to. Consider upgrading fixtures, replacing old tiles, or adding energy-efficient features.

Average cost: $27,024
Average resale value: $16,893
Cost recouped: 62.5%

7. Roofing Replacement

A new roof boosts the home’s overall appearance and signals potential buyers that the property has been well-maintained, potentially justifying a higher selling price.

Additionally, modern roofing materials often come with energy-efficient features, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and those looking to save on energy costs.

Reduced maintenance requirements and the assurance of a well-kept roof make the home more attractive on the market.

Asphalt Shingles

Average cost: $33,541
Average resale value: $20,561
Cost recouped: 61.3%

Metal

Average cost: $55,619
Average resale value: $24,127
Cost recouped: 43.4%

Other Valuable Home Improvement Projects

1. Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular. There are numerous ways to transform your backyard into a functional outdoor living space. You can add a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen.

Read our blog post about the best outdoor living ideas to find the right beautiful extension of your home.

Additionally, remodeling outdoor features can financially benefit homeowners who plan to sell their property. NAR, Most REALTORS® Recommend Improving Curb Appeal, and Homeowners Can Benefit Financially and Emotionally by Remodeling Outdoor Features, NAR-NALP Report Finds: Most REALTORS® (92%) suggest that sellers improve the curb appeal of their home before listing it for sale.

2. Address Structural Issues

Before focusing on cosmetic upgrades, ensure that the structure of your home is sound. Address any issues such as roof leaks, foundation cracks, or plumbing problems.

Hire a home inspector to find and fix problems before you sell your home. Then, you can demonstrate your detailed care for the buyer’s future home by providing them with receipts.

3. Install Hardwood Floors

Beyond the timeless elegance they bring to any room, hardwood floors are durable and easy to maintain. They are versatile and can work effectively in almost any room while also increasing the value of your home.

NAR, Remodeling Impact, for interior projects, the highest percentage cost recovered was from refinishing hardwood floors at 147%, new wood flooring at 118%, and insulation upgrade at 100%.

In conclusion, remember to prioritise upgrades that offer the best ROI and appeal to a broad range of tastes. By strategically investing in your home, you can maximise your property’s value and ensure a successful sale.

Finally, as your real estate agent, we are happy to further extend our services by offering our list of local, trusted service providers. Call us about your particular needs, and we will connect you with a qualified service provider in our area who can assist you.

How to Stage Your Home for a Successful Sale

One of the most effective ways to attract potential buyers and secure a successful sale is through home staging. So if you plan to sell your home, here are some tips and tricks of the trade that will help you make your home look and feel its best.

Why You Should Stage Your Home

Staging a home before selling is a strategy used to enhance its visual appeal. This can also help potential buyers imagine themselves living there.

National Association of Realtors®, Nearly half of the seller’s agents (48%) reported that staging a home decreased its time on the market, according to a new report by the National Association of Realtors®.

For both buyers’ and sellers’ agents, one in five (20%) said home staging increased the offer price by between 1% and 5% compared to similar homes on the market that weren’t staged.

Staging Tips and Tricks

Clear out the clutter:

Seeing your collectibles and storage will prevent buyers from imagining themselves in your space.

Hence, leave only the necessary furniture, keeping in mind that you want the space to look clean and spacious.

Freshen up the style:

Aim for a style that most buyers will like. Furnishings that seem homey and comforting.

Also, neutral colors work best: creams, light greys, and white.

Small furniture equals big space:

Downsize your furnishings to upsize the room. If the room looks tight to you, it likely will to potential buyers as well.

With this in mind, take some of the furniture out to create a more visual space.

Play with texture:

Wallpaper, pillows, rugs, blankets, baskets, and other tactile accessories can add texture to the look of any room.

Don’t forget the details:

Set the table. It’s easy to do and makes a significant impact. Buyers walk in and instantly feel welcome as if they’re coming over for dinner.

Moreover, light non-scented candles and place plush towels and fancy soap in the bathrooms.

Also, set out a breakfast tray on the bed or a pretty book on the coffee table with fresh flowers in the living room.

Smart accessories:

Clear the kitchen counter of appliances, spice racks, towels, and cooking utensils.

So leave only a few things, like a cookbook, a shiny teakettle, and a bowl of lemons.

Create vignettes:

Set up small “scenes” that help buyers visualize their potential life in this home.

This can be a quiet reading space with a comfy chair in the bedroom or a lounge chair under a tree in the backyard.

Doing so gives buyers some thoughtful ideas as they walk the property.

Don’t forget the outdoor areas:

Those spaces add as much interest for the buyer as the interior rooms. Add an outdoor rug, a small table and bistro chairs, and a few plants to your backyard. Remove all dead plants and trim all overgrowth.

Moreover, we have free seller reports that offer a unique insight into the selling experience. Click here for home-selling guides.

In conclusion,

Staging your home for a successful sale is a combination of art and strategy. Remember that the goal is to make your home as appealing and neutral as possible.

Additionally, having a professional real estate agent like Randy and Heidi by your side, guiding you, negotiating on your behalf, and protecting the interests that you trust, will make the process of selling a home easier.

Finally, as your real estate agent, we are happy to further extend our services by offering our list of local, trusted service providers to you. Call us about your particular needs, and we can give you a personalized recommendation of a qualified service provider in our area to assist you.

The Best Outdoor Living Ideas for Your Backyard

As the weather starts to warm up and the days get longer, this is the best time to start thinking about outdoor living. Your backyard can be more than just a patch of grass and a few trees.

With the right outdoor living ideas, it can become a beautiful extension of your home. This article discusses some of the best outdoor living ideas that turn outdoor space into an oasis.

Create an Outdoor Kitchen

Cooking and eating outside is a great way to enjoy the warm weather. When designing your outdoor kitchen, consider the size of your space, the layout, and the features you want to include, such as a grill, sink, refrigerator, and storage.

Also, choose durable and weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, stone, or tile.

Furthermore, these Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas will help you create an outdoor kitchen for your family and friends to gather and enjoy delicious food in style.

Build a Fire Pit

A fire pit is a popular feature for backyard living as it provides an inviting space to engage in activities such as roasting marshmallows, telling stories, or just enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire.

You may build with different materials, such as brick, stone, or metal.

In addition, a firepit can also enhance the overall aesthetic of a backyard. And it can create a focal point and add a rustic or natural element to the landscape design.

Install a Water Feature

A water feature can add a peaceful and soothing element to your backyard. It can be a simple fountain, a pond, or a cascading waterfall.

John Wyer of Bowles & Wyer explains that water feature ideas must work aesthetically and have a purpose within the rest of your garden design. The design does not need to be complex; sometimes, the simplest will have the most impact.

Build a Pergola

A pergola is a great way to create a shaded area in your backyard. Plant some vines or climbing flowers to create a natural canopy.

Pergolas come in various materials, like wood, vinyl, and aluminum. And can be designed to fit any style or aesthetic.

Moreover, pergolas can also increase the value of a home. They are an in-demand feature in landscaping and can make a home more attractive to potential buyers.

Plant a Garden

Planting a garden is not only a great way to add color to your backyard, but it’s also a way to grow food.

Start with a few raised beds or containers and see where it takes you.

Besides, having a garden in your backyard can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Create a Cozy Seating Area

Creating a cozy seating area is about making your space comfortable, inviting, and relaxing. Here are a few tips to help you create the perfect seating area:

Start with the seating option. Whether you prefer a plush sofa, a set of armchairs, or a loveseat, ensure it is comfortable enough to lounge in for hours.
Add soft textures such as fluffy pillows, throws, and plush rugs.
Incorporate ambient lighting. Consider adding ambient lighting, such as table lamps, floor lamps, or string lights.
Add personal touches to your seating area by incorporating decorations that reflect your style and personality.

Read more on Outdoor Living Space for your design needs.

Outdoor Features’ Benefits

Remodeling outdoor features can financially benefit homeowners who plan to sell their property. NAR, Most REALTORS® Recommend Improving Curb Appeal, and Homeowners Can Benefit Financially and Emotionally by Remodeling Outdoor Features, NAR-NALP Report Finds: Most REALTORS® (92%) suggest that sellers improve the curb appeal of their home before listing it for sale.

Also, the largest share of REALTORS® recommended owners complete landscaping-related features before putting a home on the market.

Those were among the top projects for which landscape professionals saw increased demand over the last year.

Check out the 2023 Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features examines why homeowners complete outdoor remodeling projects, the value of undertaking these enhancements, and homeowners’ increased happiness after completing an upgrade.

In conclusion,

Creating an outdoor living space in your backyard can bring new enjoyment to your home. There are countless ways to transform your backyard into a functional outdoor living space.

If you decide to have the remodeling done, here is a guide from us on How to Hire a Remodeling Contractor.

Lastly, we hope these ideas inspire you to make the most of your backyard in the summer. We depart with this quote from Nick Kelsh: The world of your photography is limitless—just like your backyard.

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!

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!

Sebastopol Home Décor Tweaks are a Springtime Phenomenon

There is something about spring that gets everybody at least thinking about fixing up the house, and it’s that time of year again. Throughout the length and breadth of Sebastopol, home décor decisions are being pondered. Ambitious landscaping and fix-up plans are being laid, budgets drawn, and troops assembled (the troops will be armed with paint brushes and rollers, hedge clippers and rakes).

Perhaps it’s the weather; perhaps the angle of the sun—or maybe even this month’s clock-adjusting exercise—for whatever the reason, this time of year is when we look around the house and decide changes will be made!!

It’s also the time of year when occasional disagreements between Sebastopol’s husbands and wives have been known to crop up. The Home Improvement section of the realtor^® web site just ran a feature titled “When Couples Disagree About Home Décor,” which promised to tell who the winner is in such arguments. It pointed out that women have different priorities than men (women: “leather makes those embarrassing noises each time you sit or stand” vs. men: “but you’re going to freak out each time someone sits on [the linen cushions] with a drink”). The woman who wrote the article says that she won the argument—but admits that now she freaks out every time someone sits on her sofa with a drink (it’s already freckled with water marks). So maybe the man won in the long run…

If your home décor efforts are getting special attention this season because you plan to add your home to the Sebastopol listings, “what’s hot” might suddenly be more of a consideration. But a different home décor impasse can come about when the fashion zeitgeist points in one direction while your personal taste pulls in another. Even worse, you may find that the fashion world is arguing amongst themselves!

The Realty Skinny says, for instance, that gray is about to overtake white in popularity (simultaneously also “pushing out the beige era”). That’s not a problem for The Washington Post, which agrees that “gray makes all your possessions pop out” (except, I have to believe, the gray ones). On the other hand, the Pantone Color Institute, which practically wrote the book on color, couldn’t disagree more. They think that pinkish Rose Quartz (“warm, embracing”) and faintly bluish Serenity (“calm-inducing”) are what’s happening right now. In fact, it/they are its Color[/s] of the Year. That is because “the pairing…brings a feeling of calm and relaxation into the home environment.” That would be welcome—especially when you’re freaked out about the water marks on the sofa.

You don’t have to be selling your home for home décor tweaks and garden renewal to occupy your thoughts, but if you do, I hope you will give us a call. Our free, no-obligation consultation will let you in on the latest Sebastopol market information. We think you’ll agree that knowing exactly what’s happening has a definite serenity-producing effect!

Sebastopol Real Estate Market Watch

Sebastopol is a unique and wonderful town. There are many that joke about it’s residents being organic, free range, sustainable, yoginis, such as in a recent article in the press democrat http://www.pressdemocrat.com/gallery/4412428-181/they-might-be-from-sebastopol but it is taken in stride. The quiet, unassuming, slow lifestyle that West County supports draws many to this area every year and creates a unique real estate market.

October 2015 has shown the Sebastopol Real Estate Market to be in line with much of the country, increase in value with signs a slight time of year slow down. Increased home values, August 2014 the median home price was $628,00 and October 2015 we ended at $747,000 for a 19% increase. Demand remains high and inventory on the lower side, although we are seeing a normalizing of this phenomena in October. Inventory in August was only 1.9 months vs. September and October it has increased to 2.5 months on inventory. The average balanced market tends to be a 3-month supply of inventory.

Sebastopol mirrors San Francisco’s real estate market pretty closely and according to Realtor.com San Francisco is one of the top 20 hottest markets in the country right now. http://www.realtor.com/news/trends/the-hottest-housing-markets-of-august-2015/

That being said, there are so many contributing factors involved in deciphering value in a Sebastopol area home such as:

Multiple micro neighborhoods. There at least a dozen different smaller neighborhoods within the larger Sebastopol Community. There are more agriculturally driven neighborhoods, suburban, and live and work.

Challenging to provide a “competitive” value to homes due to several contributing factors. Some examples of this are: proximity to downtown, amount of acreage on the property, is there plantable land fro grapes or apples? What is the water accessibility, septic or well, private well or community well? What is the zoning on the property, agricultural? Multi-use?

We are often asked if we think now is a good time to purchase or sell a home. Our answer will always be the same. Let’s get together and talk about your specific property. We are well versed in the many intricacies of this market and happy to give you a free evaluation of either your home value in today’s market or assessment of the best values in the current inventory.

Embrace the Warmth of Wine Country Living

1. Warm Neutrals + Wine-Country Hues

2. Textural Layers & Local Artisanal Touches

3. Sustainable & Natural Materials

6. Nature-Inspired Holiday Décor

Why This Matters for Home Sellers

Closing Costs for Buyers

Closing Costs for Sellers

Average Closing Costs Breakdown

Is it possible to negotiate closing costs?

When do I pay closing costs?

1. Increased Demand for Suburban and Secondary Markets

2. Sustainability Takes Center Stage

3. Rising Interest Rates Stabilize

4. Fewer Deals for Renters

5. Increased Housing Inventory

6. Positive Outlook for Home Sales

7. Millennial and Gen Z Buyers Dominate

8. Increased Focus on Climate Resilience

Home Improvements with the Best ROI

1. HVAC Conversion (Electrification)

2. Focus on Curb Appeal

Garage Door Replacement

Entry Door Replacement (Steel)

Manufactured Stone Veneer

3. Siding Replacement

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

5. Window Replacement

6. Bathroom Remodel (Midrange)

7. Roofing Replacement

Other Valuable Home Improvement Projects

1. Outdoor Living Spaces

2. Address Structural Issues

3. Install Hardwood Floors

Why You Should Stage Your Home

Staging Tips and Tricks

Clear out the clutter:

Freshen up the style:

Small furniture equals big space:

Play with texture:

Don’t forget the details:

Smart accessories:

Create vignettes:

Don’t forget the outdoor areas:

In conclusion,

Create an Outdoor Kitchen

Build a Fire Pit

Install a Water Feature

Build a Pergola

Plant a Garden

Create a Cozy Seating Area

Outdoor Features’ Benefits

In conclusion,

Start preparing for the Spring Real Estate Market

Homebuying Forecast

Sonoma County Housing Market

Work with experienced real estate agents

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