#sonomacounty Archives - Artisan Sotheby's International Realty

Sebastopol Real Estate At A Glance

Our new office in the heart of downtown Sebastopol gives us a unique perspective on the overall activity in our thriving town. We watch the consistent pedestrian traffic of shoppers, workers, and tourists, coming in and out of various places of business; children playing on the plaza square, and bicyclists riding along our newly dedicated bike lane. There is a gentle hum of activity throughout the day that is pleasant to witness and be a part of. Our real estate market mimics this buzz of activity.

The Sebastopol real estate market has always been competitive and seems to hover around a slight Seller advantage. The current market is no different. While the Market Action Index shows some strengthening in the last few weeks. Even though average prices have settled into a bit of a plateau, we anticipate things to start increasing shortly due to being in a Seller’s market. When the advantage is to the seller, however slight, prices are likely to resume their climb. Current trends show the median list price for a Sebastopol home is $960,000 with a price per square foot of $529.

By measuring the rate of sales versus the inventory we can see there is a slight Seller’s advantage. With the Market Action Index (real estate supply and demand) at 34, it is showing an increase over last week of 32, indicating an increase in market activity.

There are a variety of homes, land, and business opportunities on the market right now. Currently, Heidi and I have listed an amazing wine country property on Harrison Grade Road in Sebastopol. Situated on a quintessential Sebastopol road of gentle curves and picturesque landscapes of vineyards, apple orchards, and homes, this listing does not disappoint.

We have a number of exciting listings in Sebastopol. Cotati, Healdsburg, Petaluma, Willow Creek, and Camp Meeker as well. From a fabulous retreat style home, an equestrian property, a 400+ acre property, to a commercial development opportunity and a legal/permitted cannabis grow site, there is never a shortage of unique and inspiring real estate in Sonoma County.

It is exciting to see the growth in our community from year to year. We can always count on this market to keep things lively. We welcome all your questions about the market. We also offer a no strings attached, free estimate on any property’s value. It is always interesting to see where your property might fall in our diverse and growing market. Give us a call or email us directly by clicking here.

Renovated Estate Genuinely Rooted in Sonoma Wine Country

Randy and I have been very fortunate over the years to represent some pretty amazing homes and estates throughout Sonoma county. Some have been filled with history, or architecturally significant. Some have been sprawling wonders of luxury, and some just made us feel good upon entering. Our newest listing on Harrison Grade Road in Sebastopol is one of those homes that evokes a warm and inviting atmosphere, along with a tie to an old wine country family and offers many modern luxuries buyers have come to expect in a home.

This Craftsman home offers a comfortable and relaxed environment while holding on to its original roots established by an esteemed wine family from the 1920s. The four-bedroom, three-bath home provides present, and future generations with all the modern comforts found in a luxurious home without compromising its history.

Built to last and encapsulate the cherished memories of all its inhabitants this timeless home features hardwood plank floors, large picture windows that bring the natural light inside and beautiful views in every room. Renovations to the original house were designed up by the current homeowners alongside Sebastopol architect, Lars Langberg. Hand-hewn redwood logs span its circumference as part of the foundation, ensuring the roots of this home are healthy.

Entertaining is a breeze in the chef’s kitchen featuring granite and quartz countertops, a 6 burner Electrolux gas range, stainless steel appliances, pantry, wine and beverage refrigerator and easy access to the outdoor spaces. The great room with open floor plan and wood burning fireplace offers cozy comfort for many or just one.

Awaken to cheerful sunlight in the master suite. Ample storage space and a spa-like ensuite celebrate the modern amenities we all enjoy. You will find views from every room in the home to enjoy until your heart’s content, and mind is at ease.

“We bought this house to free ourselves from the city. We wanted to raise our family in the country.” Both family and house received a full restoration.

“We will miss the moonlight through the palm tree, grand skyscapes ever-changing, geese flying by, foxes trotting along our footpaths, the occasional coyote chorus and echoing owls. Juicy peaches from the two spindly trees, the cool fog that rolls in after a hot day and how surprisingly good the water tastes. We will remember the outdoor kitchen, the gardens, the fireplace, and bocci ball. The sound of 100 frogs in our pond every spring, the masses of Robins and Starlings gathered high atop the redwood trees and how free our children lived here and how they grew into adults. Our local Occidental community has also provided us with so much nourishment over the years, like Howards for breakfast, coffee at the Union Hotel, and drinks at Joe’s Bar. We take with us a lifetime of happy memories, full bellies, and light hearts.”

The best way to see the home is through the eyes of those that have lived here before. They can suggest the best parts that you cannot see or feel on your first tour. Things like: the southwest corner of the kitchen is the best window to read the morning paper in the sunshine or to watch the birds drinking from the fountain.

Retreat to an estate that is saturated with wine country roots.
Come and see for yourself where your true wine country lifestyle fits right in.

Uniting Family Homes in 2019

Family Compound 3D rendering — Family Compound Vision ID 115428455 © | Dreamstime.com

Did you ever notice that trends have their way of circling back? One such trend is a family compound. Defined as a group of buildings in an enclosed area, having a shared or associated purpose, such as the houses of an extended family, a family compound is a trend more families are bringing back into popularity for a variety of practical reasons.

Property Listing: 3500 Sweetwater Springs Road, Healdsburg, California 95448 — 3500 Sweetwater Springs Road, Healdsburg, California 95448

Land in California is scarce, especially property in which to build new homes on. Purchasing a piece of land suitable for multiple dwellings such as our Sweetwater Springs listing in Healdsburg resolves this issue. Breathtaking views sweep through this 480± acre parcel with spectacular panoramic view options for future building sites. Gently rolling ridge top features open sunny meadows, natural springs and incredible views of the Russian River Valley, Mt St Helena and beyond. The perfect canvas awaits to create your dream estate or family compound with vineyard potential. Russian River and Sonoma Coast AVA. Includes two separate parcels with 5 certificate of compliance. This property is currently offered at $2,995,000. Give us a call to show you around and discuss the possibilities.

Finding affordable housing is tough in California all across the state. Sonoma County is no different. The lack of space to build new homes, the recent devastating fires, and an already tight housing market have all made it even more challenging to solve one of humans’ most fundamental needs, a place to live. Creating a family compound makes sense in solving this dilemma. Building a more significant purchase together as a family and developing individual housing on the property for each member becomes a lot more affordable and helps equalize the burden of cost to each individual.

Property Listing: 6484 Bodega Avenue, Petaluma, California 94952 — 6484 Bodega Avenue, Petaluma, California 94952

Finding the right property to create your ideal family compound can have it’s challenges too. If 480± acres is too big for you, we also have an incredible property that is ideally suited for a compound and holds multiple dwellings onsite already. Our Bodega Avenue listing is a tranquil and private 80± acres located in desirable West Petaluma. This flag lot would make a great family compound boasting main house, guest house, and caretakers’ quarters. An ideal property for raising crops with vineyard potential. Suitable for horses includes 3 large barns, outbuildings and spring fed pond. Close to wine country, fine dining, and coast. Currently offered at $2,999,999. This property is a unique spot, give us a call to walk through it and learn more about the multiple opportunities it offers.

Multiple Generations in a family — ID 108767364 © Seijiroooooooooo | Dreamstime.com

The idea of a family compound is not a new one. In the 1900s and earlier it was commonplace to have multiple generations of families living on the same property and sometimes under one roof. The benefits vary. When the kids are small, grandparents are nearby to help; when the grandparents are too old to be alone, they have family nearby to care for them. Sharing expenses and helping each other out. Another possible advantage is the closeness the family feels by living so close together and supporting one another through the challenges and successes we all experience in life.

Contact us today if you are interested in walking through either of the above listings. Both properties offer multiple possibilities for a family compound, potential income, and a harmonious lifestyle.

Homegrown Realtors

Randy and I are fortunate to call Sonoma County our home. We have built a strong professional foundation rooted in our love and respect for the area as well as the people who call it home. We joined Sotheby’s International Realty over ten years ago not only for the worldwide brand recognition and quality of service but because Sotheby’s has a profound respect for the people that work within the organization. This commitment ultimately benefits the people who hire a Sotheby’s agent to represent them. We are honored to serve Sonoma County residents to find their ideal home and be an ambassador for Sotheby’s International Realty brand. Give us a call today and learn more about how we can help you reach your real estate goals.

Real Estate Unpacked: 7 Reasons to Own a Home

Real Estate can be an overwhelming topic. There is a lot of information and misinformation that can be confusing. One of our favorite resources for condensed and accurate real estate information is Realtor Magazine. We recently rediscovered some articles illustrating various topics. As a result, we are posting them in a series we are calling Real Estate Unpacked.

We will cover a multitude of topics including but not limited to:

Top Reasons to Own a Home
Top Reasons to Work with a Realtor
House Hunting
Preparing to Purchase a Home
Tracking your Budget
Improving your Credit Score
Choosing a Lender
Creative Financing

7 Reasons to Own A Home

1. Tax benefits.
The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, and some of the costs involved in buying a home.

2. Appreciation.
Historically, real estate has had a long-term, stable growth in value. While home prices have appreciated nationally at an average annual rate between 3 and 5 percent, depending on the index used for the calculation, home value appreciation in different metro areas can appreciate at markedly different rates than the national average. Here in California, the average annual rate of increase is 4% and according to some experts and projected to rise on up to almost 7%.

3. Equity.
Money paid for rent is money that you’ll never see again, but mortgage payments let you build equity ownership interest in your home.

4. Savings.
Building equity in your home is a ready-made savings plan. And when you sell, you can generally take up to $250,000 ($500,000 for a married couple) as gain without owing any federal income tax. The only stipulation here is you must have lived in the home for two years out of the last five years.

5. Predictability.
Unlike rent, your fixed-rate mortgage payments don’t rise over the years so your housing costs may actually decline as you own the home longer. However, keep in mind that property taxes and insurance costs will likely increase.

6. Freedom.
The home is yours. You can decorate any way you want and choose the types of upgrades and new amenities that appeal to your lifestyle.

7. Stability.
Remaining in one neighborhood for several years allows you and your family time to build long-lasting relationships within the community. It also offers children the benefit of educational and social continuity.

Heidi and I are here to answer any questions you may have, just give us a call!

Giving Thanks

Gratitude is a powerful theme during most holiday seasons. For Randy and I, Sonoma County continually evokes a powerful sense of appreciation for its welcoming nature and fruitful land, warm and inclusive people, and breath of fresh air. We are grateful for so much, the people we love, the people we work with, the incredible landscape we enjoy year round, and the relentless “nothing can keep us down” attitude of our community.

Sonoma County’s landscape provides a master class in agriculture, food, wine, recreation, and abundance for all who live here. There is always so much to learn and experience right in our own backyard. For Randy and I, the landscape provides an incredible backdrop to our real estate business. It is not challenging to showcase the benefits of owning real estate in this community, but it remains a very competitive market. We work hard to meet our clients’ needs and goals in each transaction. Real Estate in Sonoma County remains a constant wave of emotions: competitive, satisfying, and generous. We absolutely love what we do and are humbled every day to be able to help clients achieve their dreams in this exciting real estate market.

The last few years Sonoma County has seen some challenges with the national housing crisis and on the heels of coming back from that – have faced some of the worst wildfires in California history. There is a strong sense of community spirit and personal kindness here that is like no other place we have lived. It has been rewarding to hear the stories (and there are many) of people reaching out to one another to lift each other up. This spirit is undeniable in Sonoma County.

Feeling a part of something more significant than yourself is an incredibly important aspect of being a part of a strong community. Randy and I both feel extremely grateful to be a part of this spirit of thanks, energy, and generosity. No matter what your circumstances are in life, Sonoma County has a way of bringing everyone together as a whole and making all feel welcome. Whether it is donating our time through the Redwood Empire Harley Club, leading hiking groups, working with local veterans in finding a new home or working within the real estate community, we are committed to this fantastic group of people encircled by this incredible land in Sonoma County.We are grateful, every day.

Hidden Gems in Real Estate

Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, Realtor.com, Homes.com are all easily accessible platforms for the general public to look up and shop for their new home. Often times, these sites also provide a free estimation of value for a current property. Although these platforms serve a valuable purpose, by giving people an overview of their current housing market, a Realtor’s experience in the local market still cannot be replaced.

Realtors across the United States are all trying to gain their customer’s attention, whether it be through their website, blogging, social media, mailers, advertising in print or even on the above websites on a profile page. Each agent comes to you with specific expertise in the area they service and in the particular real estate on which they focus.

Heidi and I are experts in Sonoma County. We have lived here for over 40 years. We have hiked the trails, ridden our motorcycles up and down the roads, camped in the parks, attended the festivals, shopped in the stores, and attended community meetings. Involvement in the community is our passion. Additionally, we have worked in real estate for over 30+ years, bringing our love for this place to our craft, all to help you make a home here as we have, in Northern California. We are deeply rooted in this area and extremely proud to represent Artisan Sotheby’s International Realty here.

What all the real estate platforms don’t show you are the hidden gems in a community. You may be able to see the inside of a home on the market from the privacy of your office or home but you can’t see the people in that neighborhood, the best place to get a cup of coffee to go or stay in, the best breakfast spot or the local evening hangout. Heidi and I know these details. We not only have the knowledge that comes with being a professional realtor and are extremely adept in negotiating the best terms on behalf of our clients but we also have a keen sense of neighborhoods, homes and the people we are working with. We strive to build lasting relationships with our clients’ not just sell a property.

The other thing they can’t tell you accurately is how the market is doing within a specific smaller portion of the county. For instance, you cannot search Sebastopol, CA specifically on any platform. Closest you will get is Santa Rosa, two vastly different communities in terms of real estate and lifestyle. Likewise in Santa Rosa, there are hundreds of micro-neighborhoods that these platforms cannot single out and tell you how many homes were sold in that specific area last year, two years ago or give you an educated guess as to what the home will be worth in 5-10 years from that day. Heidi and I can.

We know Sonoma County, we know real estate. Give us a call and we can help you reach your real estate goals.

The Trends and Homes for Sale in Sebastopol

The current housing market in Sebastopol California is on par with overall California trends that we’ve seen over the last few years. This last week’s report showed that Sebastopol has an average or median list price of $1,049,000 (ranging from $519K to $12.9M), and an average of $577 per square foot. The slight increase that we saw in the days on market, has held steady throughout this time. At a hundred and forty days this trend is concurrent with what we’re seeing in homes with price decreases, landing a little above 50%. One promising figure is that we’ve had 0% relisted in the last few weeks. Meaning that although we are still seeing a higher than average days on the market number, homes are still selling. This may help since our inventory is little higher than average, and the rental market is on the upswing averaging about $4,400 per month.

We have a few examples of homes that are selling right now in Sebastopol, CA. These homes are quintessential Northern California and they fully facilitate the lifestyle that keeps people moving and living in this fabulous part of the country.

The first home we would like to showcase this month is on Green Valley Road. This particular property was inspired by all of the glorious architecture from the shores of Martha’s Vineyard and is a prime example of the luxury real estate in Sonoma County. This two-story home is the essence of privacy and tranquility, located at the end of a private lane, creating a cozy backdrop to your indoor|outdoor lifestyle. The show-stopper of this property is in the landscaping and beautiful views of adjacent mountain ranges allowing you to feel private yet inspired.

Everything about this home is created to take-in that beautiful landscape. Its open airy feel is highlighted with large windows and bright light that beckons you to grab a warm cup of tea and a book, and just be in the space. Even though this home seems to be created just for the residents’ pure enjoyment and relaxation, bringing friends and family into your curated life is easy with large french doors off the living room into a grand open entertaining space complete with fenced courtyard perfect for family gatherings. From the covered porch where you can gaze upon your own hobby Pinot Noir vineyard to plantation shutters, this Northern California modern cottage house has been fully realized.

The second home we would like to share with you is on Cherry Ridge Road. There is much to enjoy about this modern French inspired farmhouse, located minutes to downtown Sebastopol. Just like the first, this home is nestled at the end of a quiet lane offering plenty of privacy and tranquility. Enjoy the quintessential northern California lifestyle in the home’s spacious open floor plan. The light-filled master suite embraces the outdoor views and creates is a relaxing retreat. Even the bathrooms are designed in a way to add to the clean and calm feel of the space.

The fashionable indoor/outdoor living is made seamless with a deck and patio area with expansive views of the beautiful west county landscape. Enjoy the peaceful walking paths through lush landscaping and vibrant gardens on this gently rolling parcel and escape to the country and tranquility with each step.

Better than Apple Pie

If Sebastopol California is known for anything, it is the Gravenstein Apple. This tart fruit is synonymous with late summer in Northern California. We are a community that is connected to the land, the bounty it provides, and the tasty treasures that are produced. The history of Sebastopol and the culture are so connected to this palm-sized gem!

The Gravenstein Apple is a tart apple that is yellow-green with some red lines. Due to some characteristics of the tree itself and of the flowers, Gravenstein apples are particularly difficult to harvest and sell. But those same characteristics make for a variable ripening season, solidifying the historic importance of this apple due to the fact that sometimes you can get the apples over a very long period of time.

These beautiful fruits are grown in many places around the world. In Austria, brandy is created from the juice of this fruit. In Australia, this apple is particularly special because the apple season only lasts for a few weeks. In Canada, although grown on both West and East Coasts, it is primarily a backyard fruit and not heavily produced for commercial uses. The Gravenstein was proclaimed the national Apple of Denmark in 2005, and is also grown in countries such as Norway and New Zealand, but not too a large commercial degree. In the United States, the Gravenstein is found primarily on the West Coast. As we in Northern California know, this apple is particularly found in Sonoma County.

In the early 19th century, the Gravenstein Apple was brought to Northern America and has a history of being used as applesauce or dried apples during World War II.

Here in Northern California, the Gravenstein can be harvested in August, yet is often gone by Labor Day. Gravenstein apples are often used as a baking fruit due to their tart and juicy nature. Although these apples ripen and can be harvested earlier than most, they do not travel as well as some of the more well-known apples we see in far-off supermarkets. Although this makes for difficult transcontinental sales, it does provide a beautiful niche here in Nothern California in the slow food movement. Restaurants such as Chez Panisse in Berkeley try and incorporate this fruit into their seasonal menu. For reasons including its ability to grow in Sebastopol’s mild climate, the early harvest, and the tart flesh, Northern California has created this perfect bubble for this beautiful fruit to thrive.

Gravenstein Apple Fair is held in Sebastopol’s Ragle Park on August 11th and 12th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. This year marks of 45th Gravenstein Apple Fair put on by Sonoma County Farm Trails. Known as “the sweetest little fair in Sonoma County“, this charming festival is held under shaded oak trees in a beautiful neighborhood park. The family-friendly feel, the smell of apples in the air, and the quaint setting, all help to create a true hometown feel and showcase a little bit of everything we love about small-town life in Sonoma County. As Northern California continues to gain notoriety for fine wines, the apple industry faces new challenges, finding a reason to take a moment this August and celebrate the Gravenstein in Sebastopol, California.

House Design May Change Due to a Single Word

There’s news in the world of house design—for a change!

Those who keep in touch with the house design innovations that Sebastopol buyers are currently favoring know one thing is for certain: they don’t change overnight. True innovations are rare.

Fads occasionally come and go (remember “industrial décor” and barn door sliders?)—but by definition, fads don’t wind up making much of a dent in how most Sebastopol homes are built or remodeled. That’s a good thing: overexuberant style-chasing can be expensive to correct once a clever style has come and gone.

We bring this up because it looks as if there are a couple of interconnected house design ideas that look like they might be durable—and if so, Sebastopol home buyers and sellers will want to be aware of them.

First is a house design feature that’s gradually been working its way up in popularity: the ground floor master bedroom. A recent article in The Wall Street Journal pointed to the demographics that make this a house design winner. They call it “main-floor master bedroom”—but whatever you call it, the logic is irrefutable. As the number of America’s seniors grows, the practicality of easy access grows with it, gradually shifting from convenience to necessity.

The associated and more consequential design news is summed up in one word: flex. A flex room or area is one that has no designated purpose, but which can be configured and later re-configured to accommodate changing needs and lifestyles. Flex rooms are usually sited off the entry hall, near the main living space, generally close to a bathroom (“so they can easily morph into bedrooms”). They have ample electric wiring so they can become home offices or media centers. Or anything else, not yet anticipated.

Flex rooms used to be called “bonus rooms”—but that might be selling the innovative element short. To us, the term “bonus room” has always seemed like a luxury afterthought; a non-necessity. “Flex room” sounds active and dynamic—and valuable. In fact, the essence of the idea may be more of a marketing insight than design innovation. Whichever it is, it’s something Sebastpol sellers can appreciate for its practicality: potential buyers will tend to project their own needs into the space. As a house planner put it to the Journal, “When you name it ‘dining room,’ buyers will never get that out of their mind.”

In a wider sense, the “flex” idea is a reflection of 21^st-century reality. At this point, we all understand that change is the most predictable element of our future. Having built-in flexibility in a home’s design is one way to assure that it stays in style—and also a way to ensure its lasting resale value. Maximizing that is our specialty—so be sure to keep our number handy!