10 Fall Home Maintenance Tips

As the leaves change colors and the air becomes crisp, clear signs that fall is here. Ensure your property is in top shape and prevent costly repairs in the future with these fall home maintenance tips.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves and debris can quickly clog your gutters and downspouts. Regularly clean them to prevent water overflow from drain blockage, which can damage your roof, siding, and foundation.

2. Check and Seal Windows and Doors

Inspect the seals around your windows and doors for cracks or gaps. Seal them to prevent pests from entering, for proper insulation to improve energy efficiency, and to ensure the temperature in your home is where you want it to be.

3. Emergency Kit

Assemble or update an emergency kit with essentials like a flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food, and first aid supplies.

4. HVAC Maintenance

Before the cold weather arrives, schedule a professional HVAC system inspection. Change air filters and clean vents. Regular HVAC maintenance is essential to keep your heating and cooling system running efficiently.

5. Seal The Cracks

Cracks in driveways, walkways, and foundation walls can act as pathways for water to seep in. Repair the cracks to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.

How to seal the cracks in your driveway:

  • Prepare: Clean the driveway thoroughly.
  • Choose Materials: Get the appropriate filler and sealant for your driveway.
  • Fill Cracks: Fill deep cracks with filler, level it, and let it dry.
  • Apply Sealant: Use an applicator to spread the sealant over cracks, overlapping the edges.
  • Smooth Sealant: Feather the sealant to blend with the driveway surface.
  • Allow to Dry: Follow the drying time instructions of the product.
  • Clean Tools: Clean tools immediately after use.

6. Prepare Your Lawn and Garden

As the growing season winds down, give your lawn one last mow, trim bushes and trees, and store outdoor furniture and garden tools in a safe, dry place.

How to store outdoor furniture:

  • Clean the furniture: Remove dirt, dust, and any stains. Use appropriate cleaning solutions and tools for the specific material (wood, metal, plastic, etc.) to avoid damage.
  • Dry completely: Avoid moisture in your furniture, which can lead to mold, mildew, and rust, which can damage it.
  • Disassemble if possible: To save space and for easy storage, disassemble your outdoor furniture.
  • Use furniture covers: Invest in high-quality furniture covers. Protect your furniture from dust, rain, and UV rays.
  • Elevate off the ground: Store your furniture off the ground to prevent moisture damage. You can use furniture blocks or store them on a raised platform like a wooden pallet.

7. Appliance Maintenance

Service and clean your major appliances, such as the refrigerator and oven, to ensure they run efficiently before the holiday season.

8. Test The Detectors

Replace the batteries on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; you should test them to know if they’re working accurately.

9. Clean the Dryer Vent

Lint buildup in dryer vents is a fire hazard. Remove and clean the lint trap and the vent duct regularly to reduce the risk of a dryer fire. 

Moreover, you can find safety reminders from the National Fire Protection Association here.

10. Finish Exterior Painting Projects

The fall season typically offers a comfortable temperature outside, making it an ideal time for painting. This weather allows the paint to adhere better and dry properly, resulting in a more durable and weather-resistant finish.

Follow these fall home maintenance tips for a safe and comfortable environment throughout the colder months. Learn more about home hazards.

Finally, remember that preventive maintenance is a wise investment, as it can save you money and the hassle of emergency repairs. We hope you have a well-prepared home this fall season for whatever the colder seasons bring. Happy fall!

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.

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!

Sustainable Living: Green Home 2023

As the world becomes increasingly aware of sustainable living, individuals and households are taking conscious steps to reduce their environmental footprint.

One of the areas where we can make a significant impact is within our own homes. This blog post will provide valuable insights into creating a greener home for you.

Eco-friendly Practices

1. Switch to energy-efficient lighting

One example of energy-efficient lighting is LED lighting. LEDs have revolutionized the lighting industry due to their remarkable energy efficiency.

Also, LED bulbs use 80% less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs.

2. Water conservation

Water scarcity is a growing concern worldwide. In response, homeowners are adopting water-saving techniques. Such as: 

      • Low-flow toilets

Traditional toilets typically use around 3.5 to 7 gallons of water per flush, whereas low-flow toilets aim to use 1.6 gallons or less.

      • Low-flow shower heads

Standard modern shower heads typically have a flow rate of around 2.5 gallons per minute. In contrast, low-flow shower heads have a flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute or less, with some models achieving rates as low as 1.5 gallons per minute.

      • Water-saving faucets

The standard faucet typically has flow rates of 2.2 gallons per minute or higher, while low-flow faucets aim for flow rates of 1.5 gallons per minute or less.

      • Rainwater harvesting systems

This allows homeowners to collect and reuse rainwater for non-potable purposes such as gardening and cleaning.

3. Install solar panels

Solar panels offer a renewable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution to meet our energy needs while reducing our carbon footprint.

      • How do they work?

Energy.gov: Solar radiation is light – also known as electromagnetic radiation – that is emitted by the sun. While every location on Earth receives some sunlight over a year, the amount of solar radiation that reaches any one spot on the Earth’s surface varies. Solar technologies capture this radiation and turn it into useful forms of energy.

      • Will it increase the value of my home?

Zillow: Nationally, homes with solar-energy systems sold for 4.1% more on average than comparable homes without solar power. For the median-valued home, that translates to an additional $9,274.

One reason houses with solar-energy systems sell for more than those without them is that they can provide substantial future energy cost savings.

For homeowners who know they consume a lot of power, these future savings are worth spending a bit more money upfront.

4. Smart home integration

Smart home technologies are integrated into eco-friendly real estate to optimize energy consumption. These technologies enable homeowners to monitor and control energy usage, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and appliances remotely.

In addition, by connecting your home with smart devices, you can reduce your household energy usage by as much as 30%.

The Value of Energy Efficiency

NAR, Majority of Agents, Brokers Find Value in Promoting Energy Efficiency in Listings, A majority (63%) of agents and brokers said promoting energy efficiency in listings is very or somewhat valuable, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors®.

“While each area of the country has a unique climate and community resources, Realtors® are finding the need to embrace their clients’ sustainability interests,” said Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research.

“Buyers often seek homes that either lessen their environmental footprint or reduce their monthly energy costs. There is value in promoting green features and energy information to future home buyers.”

in Conclusion

The concept of sustainable living has evolved, leading to the rise of greener homes. By embracing these trends and making sustainable choices, we can collectively make a significant impact on preserving our planet’s resources and creating a more sustainable future.

If you’re interested in more sustainability content, check out PISE in Paradise, which discusses a green building method and its environmental benefits.

Lastly, let us all take the necessary steps toward a greener tomorrow.

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

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 

Fire Pit
WRJ Design

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

Outdoor 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

PeragolaA 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

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

Outdoor Seating Area
Fantastic Frank

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.

  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!

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.

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!

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

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!

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.

Testimonials

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
More Testimonials

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