Gold country homes sept 14 2018

w w w. g o l d c o u n t r y h o m e s . c o m

Gold Country Homes

September 14-20, 2018 Volume 34

ALTA • AUBURN • COLFAX COOL • FORESTHILL GARDEN VALLEY GEORGETOWN GRASS VALLEY LAKE OF THE PINES LINCOLN • LOOMIS MEADOW VISTA NEWCASTLE

Your HomeTown Agents

11879 Kemper Rd. Auburn, CA 530-888-1248 Open Daily www.seehometown.com

Lic. #01354441

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 1 - 4 PM

Featured Listings!

Hosted by: Sandra Thompson

522 FORESTHILL AVE • AUBURN

Canyon views! Contemporary home in a delightful neighborhood. Single level with bonus rm in lower level walk out. Covered front porch. Builtins surround living room fireplace.

Gorgeous wood floors. Formal & informal dining. Extra-large laundry with an abundance of cabinets, built in ironing board and a sink. Extralarge kitchen w/granite tile island.

Convenient access to deck. Ample parking & 3-car garage. MLS 18047792

Hosted by: Cole Doupnik

2336 RUBICON LANE • LINCOLN

Come take a look at this highly sought-after Eldorado model in Lincoln Hills. With newer central heating and air system.

Remodeled master bathroom with no-lip walk in shower.

Closet organizers and built in office cabinets with Murphy bed to make up that third sleeping quarters. Also installed garage cabinets and tool organizer.

MLS 18020711

$525,000

SANDRA THOMPSON 530-852-2858 DRE #01351281

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 11 AM - 2 PM

$539,000

COLE DOUPNIK 916-416-9289 DRE #01935742

3440 CEDAR SPRINGS LANE • MEADOW VISTA Swim and fish in your own private swimming hole! Enjoy 500 feet of coveted Bear River frontage with island located below Combie Lake Dam where the water runs deep. Unique passive solar home with 12 inch exterior walls is a work of art. Custom cherry kitchen cabinets offset by a gorgeous reclaimed cypress dining bar. Vaulted beamed ceilings and master suite loft. Front office and bath on main floor. Lower level guest apt with kitchen, bath, lvng rm and bdrm. Storage! MLS 18059773

$739,000

SUE THOMPSON 530-308-1157 DRE #00759416

$825,000

SUE THOMPSON 530-308-1157 DRE #00759416

Hosted by: Sue & Sandra Thompson

3200 BURLWOOD • ROCKLIN

Wonderful gated Whitney Oaks neighborhood. Corner lot with privacy on two sides. Freshly painted. Updated flooring and decorator finishes. Extra large rooms with bedroom on main floor. Formal living plus family room with gas fireplace. Large kitchen w/ informal dining area and outside access. 3-car garage. Low maintenance landscaping. Near schools, community clubhouse, pool, fitness center. SAVE with fully owned solar! MLS 18035405

$550,000

SUE THOMPSON 530-308-1157 DRE #00759416

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1 - 4 PM

Hosted by: Linda Wismar

12653 STOCKDALE RD • NEVADA CITY

Wonderful gated Whitney Oaks neighborhood. Corner lot with privacy on two sides. Freshly painted. Updated flooring and decorator finishes. Extra large rooms with bedroom on main floor. Formal living plus family room with gas fireplace. Large kitchen w/ informal dining area and outside access. 3-car garage. Low maintenance landscaping. Near schools, community clubhouse, pool, fitness center. SAVE with fully owned solar! MLS 18016033

$499,000

LINDA WISMAR 916-365-5082 DRE #01271504

3185 RATTLESNAKE ROAD • NEWCASTLE Spectacular Folsom Lake views from the top of this 21-acre irrigated parcel.

Magnificent custom built 3100+SF with vaulted ceilings and custom quality wood work. Covered front entry, gracious foyer. Formal and informal dining. Separate living room with fireplace and a wall of windows that frame the expansive lake view. Master bdrm features lake view and fireplace with adjoining luxury bath. Bring your cattle and/or plant that dream vineyard or orchard. MLS 18019125

$1,350,000

SUE THOMPSON 530-308-1157 DRE #00759416

Land and Water! They’re just not making it anymore. But here it is, 85 beautiful, private acres. Relax in the shade on the patio overlooking your own pond. Want to raise your own veggies, grapes, fruit or cattle?

There’s a huge fenced garden, tons of irrigation water and open usable land. A truly gorgeous home with massive beams, French farmhouse floors, local granite and a wine cellar. PLUS a guest house and a barn. MLS 17038058

$2,880,000

MELISSA BLIDE 530-448-9567 DRE #01895476

15159 LAKEWOOD LANE • GRASS VALLEY

224 PLEASANT • ROSEVILLE Live and play in vibrant Old Town Roseville! Affordable and Charming bungalow was built in 1906. Sit on the porch and enjoy the evening. You will appreciate the original wood floors, charming built-ins and claw foot tub.

Low maintenance exterior and outbuildings. Rear alley access.

Current Zoning could allow commercial use. MLS 18035383

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1 - 4 PM

5675 STATE HIGHWAY 193 • NEWCASTLE

7100 LITTLE HILL ROAD • AUBURN Little Hill, Big View! All usable 10 acre parcel shaded by oaks. Enjoy the picturesque rock outcroppings.

3 inches of Irrigation water for your vineyard or orchard. Spectacular Sacramento Valley views! Warm country home has been updated with quality finishes. Placed in a very private setting. Local and long distance views from several decks.

Enjoy nature while sipping your morning coffee or be dazzled by gorgeous sunsets! MLS 18834162

Felicity Nesbit Laurie Richardson

$278,500

SUE THOMPSON 530-308-1157 DRE #00759416

Welcome to your forever home!

Meticulously maintained. Located in upscale Chicago Park neighborhood.

Bordered by split rail fencing and well cared for gardens and landscaping.

Circular drive leads to 3 car garage.

The architecture speaks to the quality of this 3 bedroom, 2-1/2 bath single level home. Rich wood floors. Vaulted pine & wood beam ceilings. Skylights.

Wood stove w/ stone hearth. Built ins.

Workshop. Great mountain retreat!

MLS 18047805

$579,000

SUE THOMPSON 530-308-1157 DRE #00759416

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GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

Keeping up with water conservation At this time last year, about 78 percent of California was in the clear from a drought situation due to the heavy winter rains we had experienced the winter prior. This year, only 14 percent of the state is in a drought free zone.

Right now, if you put in 95603, one of Auburn’s zip codes, in drought.gov it will tell you that we are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.

This has been said before and I’ll say it again: “Water conservation needs to be incorporated into our lifestyles.” I saw a young girl, four or five perhaps, at a sink in a public restroom just holding her hands under the faucet while it ran and ran and ran. Her Mom didn’t say anything when she came out of the stall and neither did I. You know one of those days when you just don’t have it in you?

Well, it was one of those days for me plus I wasn’t sure a comment on wa-

Kristi Meyer Ways to Save

ter conservation was going to be happily accepted.

I walked out hoping that Mom and daughter would learn, sooner than later, that water has a value.

I grew up in Marin County where we experienced an extreme drought in 1976-1977 and my mom took it seriously. She loved to garden and impressed me when, being a single woman, she hooked the washer up so that on the rinse cycle it would drain into a garbage can she then used for her flowers and veggies. We were taught to take “army” showers. Get in; get wet; shut it down; lather up and rinse off. All to be done in five minutes. Water conservation has been some-

COURTESY

Lake Clementine has plenty of water right now. thing I learned at a formative time in my life and has stayed with me.

Prior to being a Realtor, I worked in television in Sacramento. We had a big freeze

one winter where employees were coming into work complaining all their pipes were frozen so there weren’t any showers, coffee, flushing toilets, etc. and no one was

happy. I went to our news director who was a woman which, at the time was a big deal, and I thought perhaps my idea would have some leverage — woman to woman. So, I approached her and said let’s do a news story on what it would be like if we didn’t have water so easily accessible to us and the idea was shut down immediately. Maybe it was a crazy idea, but doing a story on a subject that many people were living seemed like it would hit home.

My point is, we aren’t out of the woods when it comes to lack of water and we may never be. Why not teach our kids about water conservation? Let’s show them by setting good examples and let’s remind our neighbors or friends to be respectful of water when we see it being wasted. There are nice ways to do most anything and reminding people about water conservation can be done tastefully

245 Incline Drive, Colfax

and kindly.

Folsom Lake seems like all of the sudden it water level has become quite low.

I’ve heard they are releasing water for the winter, but I don’t know if that is true and couldn’t find any current information on the subject. If anyone knows what is going on I would love to hear from you.

In the meantime, enjoy this beautiful weather we are experiencing. The river is a perfect temperature, Lake Clementine has plenty of water to have fun in and Folsom Lake though low still offers plenty of recreational opportunities. Summer is wrapping up and with any luck we’ll have a nice wet winter and if we do … I know you’ll continue to conserve water no matter what.

Kristi Meyer is a Realtor in Auburn with Granite Real Estate. To contact her, text 916-847-5128 or email her at ItMattersToKristi@gmail.com.

$355,000

Two story 3 bedroom 3 bath, easy commute location, minutes from I-80 and town. Large bonus room downstairs and full bath. Come make this your doll house.

MLS 18058663

Randy Maggert, Broker Associate (530) 320-9398

Lic. #01210608 w w w. m a g g e r t m a g i c . c o m

“

Jana Lynn-Maggert

It’s Not just business, It’s personal!

W

(530) 308-1764

Lic. #01484405 jmaggert@golyon.com

e worked with Trina Laird to sell our home, and we couldn’t have been more pleased! We received an offer within the first few days on the market, thanks in large part to Trina’s incredible attention to details. Trina was wonderful in keeping the transaction moving along and getting the house closed in 21 days. She was always available to answer our questions (and the buyers!). She was so responsive and is the sweetest person. We had a great experience and would highly recommend Trina to our family and friends for future real estate transactions.

Ken & Tina, Roseville Committed to making your next real estate experience, your best real estate experience!

“

DRE #01066113

Trina Laird 916.532.6271

www.southplacerhomes.com

September 14-20, 2018 • GOLD COUNTRY HOMES

Will my home hold its value?

Like true love, your local real estate market has its own sense of timing, perception of beauty and perceived value. Here are some thoughts to consider if you are buying or selling a home.

Lifetime Masters Club Member, PCAR

Does real estate move in cycles?

If you are thinking of buying and then selling in three years or less, it may be more expensive to buy than rent. Real estate markets can move in cycles of six to 10 years. Selling a home during a downturn may net you less than your initial purchase price and moving is expensive.

Holding a home for five or

Kathy Fitzhenry Realtor

more years may give you a better chance of selling during a positive phase of the cycle. Hate sitting?

Think of your mortgage payment as a forced savings plan.

Who would want to own my home?

One of the tricks to making a sound buying decision is to think about your

Kary Smiley 530.200.9039

1275 Live Oak Ln • Auburn 3BD/2BA MLS18054266 $399,500

Holding a home for five or more years may give you a better chance of selling during a positive phase of the cycle. exit strategy. If your taste runs too quirky (guilty!), your home may appeal to a limited set of buyers. If you purchase a house with a mainstream sensibility, it is easier to engage a wider audience for its sale.

Other issues to consider are congruity of design, • SEE FITZHENRY PAGE 11

Homes and Land For Sale

3

12672 Princeton Dr • Auburn 3-4BD/3BA MLS18056190 $449,500

850 El Oro Dr • Auburn

1921 Hidden Dr #64 • Newcastle

2370 Volley Rd • Meadow Vista

3BD/2BA MLS18030193 $499,000

2BD/2BA MLS18059727 $199,000

3BD/2BA MLS18053375 $545,000

Lot 1 Fulda Road • Emigrant Gap 5.1 Acres MLS 18026811 ....................................$64,0000 4 Loray Court • Auburn 1 Acre MLS 18050680 .................................$145,0000 23882 Highway 49 • Grass Valley 12.43 Acres MLS 17067228 .................................$700,0000 Thinking about selling but not sure of your homes value? Call us for a FREE Market Analysis!

The TEAM That WORKS for YOU! Experienced! Respected! Trusted!

Kelly McNabb (530) 906-5876 Lic. #01491060

Rocky Sanchez (530) 320-9585 Lic. #01207376

Extraordinary Home and Land Opportunities SWEET BUNGALOW

NEW CUSTOM HOME

use n Ho 3 pm OpeSun. 1& Sat.

isted

L Just

soulfulrealestate.com karybsmiley@gmail.com DRE #01792711

$529,000 1711 Lilac Lane, Auburn

Hardwood floors • Custom cabinetry, granite and tile throughout • Spacious great room. MLS 18060158

PEACEFUL KNOLL

$549,000 Emerald Pines Drive, Auburn 10 acres • Views of the South Fork of the American River • Privacy • Well In. MLS 18050022

VIEWS OF FOLSOM LAKE

Improved Price

$430,000 574 Peach Street, Newcastle

$159,000 605 Lakeridge, Auburn

Large Lot • Fruit Trees • 1080 SF • 3bed/1bath • Good Prestigious lot in Granite Bay Vista • Quiet neighborhood Bones • Ready for Updating • Rose Garden. MLS 18063642 minutes from freeway & town. MLS 18008190

SOUTH AUBURN HOME

$695,450 1540 High Street, Auburn

2,849 sf • 4 bd/3 Ba • Walk to Town • Downstairs separate entrance • Possible in-law quarters.

MLS 18041763

20 ACRES WITH VALLEY VIEWS

$499,000 Blue Oak Ranch Rd., Auburn

Gated subdivision • Well in • Level lot with views of the Coastal Range • Lot/Construction Financing. MLS 18037544

MOUNTAIN HILLSIDE RETREAT

$440,000 27180 Cape Horn Rd., Colfax

3.5 acres • Reclaimed white oak floors from a barn in Kentucky • Privacy • Room for Shop/Shed.

MLS 18050149

4

GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

Recent real estate transactions in Placer County The following transactions took place between August 14 and 27, 2018. Information provided by Core Logic.

Carolyn Metzker "Your Recipe For Results"

916.532.4237 CELL

JUST !

LISTED

HOT NEW PROPERTIES! NEW PRICE!

NEW PRICE!

1900 Grass Valley Hwy., ste 100 auburn, Ca 95603 Lic. #01851721 GoLyon.com

www.CarolynMetzker.com

239 Russell Rd, Auburn $519,000 Spacious Canyon Rim Home

1545 Hillcrest Blvd, Colfax $499,000 Country Yet Close to Town

6760 Maywood Way, Sacramento $300,000 Affordable Single Level Home

M a s t e r ' s C l u b . . . A C o n s i s t e n t To p P r o d u c e r. . . B u y e r s . . . S e l l e r s . . . R e s i d e n t i a l . . . L a n d . . . C o m m e r c i a l

September 14-20, 2018 • GOLD COUNTRY HOMES

Going green adds real estate value Are you thinking of selling your house and want to know some of the best ways to boost your home's value, demand top dollar and potentially inspire a bidding war? Whether you're selling in a few months or a few years, there is one strategy that gets noticed in real estate markets across the United States: green home improvements.

Green homes can sell faster and for more money than comparable houses without eco-friendly features. Better yet, green homes are increasingly in demand. More than half of people rank green and energy efficiency as top requirements for their next homes, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

What are some of the most in-demand features that can boost your home's value now and prepare it for a higher sales price in the future? Here are five improvements to consider to green your home and help it stand out from the competition.

Solar panels: Can you imagine producing enough energy that your local utilities company pays you for the surplus?

With solar panels, this is possible. Plus, solar panels are extremely attractive to buyers who like that a system is already in place, and they can simply move in and enjoy the benefits. Plus, there's a $5,911 resale increase per installed kilowatt, according to the USGBC, which means a 3.1 kilowatt system could improve your home's resale value by about $18,000.

Smart water-leak detection: Home water leaks waste 1 tril-

5

lion gallons of water per year, according to the EPA. Fixing detectable leaks is a no-brainer, but what about hidden leaks?

Use intelligent-water technology like the Phyn Plus smart water assistant + shutoff, which is installed on the main water line after the meter. This device analyzes your home's water use 240 times per second to detect tiny changes in water pressure. Not only can you target invisible water leaks and make repairs to reduce your water footprint, but the device also shuts off the water in an emergency, so you (and future homeowners) never have to worry about damage from things like a burst pipe.

New windows: Heat gain and loss through windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use, according to the U.S. Energy Department, which recommends looking for the Energy Star label and reviewing ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council. Homebuyers are sure to like the updated appearance of new windows, plus they'll appreciate the savings from increased energy efficiency. For a typical home, new Energy Star windows can save $126 to $465 a year when replacing single-pane windows, and $27 to $111 a year when replacing double-pane, clear-glass windows.

Landscaping and treescaping: The right landscaping provides wonderful visual allure to a home, but it can do so much more than that. Strategically planting trees and shrub-

COURTESY

Green home improvements can boost value and shorten sale time. bery can provide bountiful eco-friendly benefits. During the hot months, shade from trees and other large plants can help keep a home cooler, so your HVAC systems don't have to work as hard. During cold months, these same plants can serve as windbreaks, cutting those chilly gusts and helping protect your home from heat loss. By adding the right plants to your yard, you'll add curb appeal and green resale benefits that go beyond beauty.

Smart thermostat: Programmable thermostats are the norm for today's houses, allowing homeowners to set a schedule and forget it. You can save as much as 10 percent a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting, according to the U.S. Energy Department. Savvy homeowners looking to get the most out of green home improvements during resale should consider a smart thermostat. These types of ther-

Open House Sunday 1-4pm

$eller $eptember $pecial!

mostats go beyond simple programming and are able to analyze home usage trends, make energy-efficient setting suggestions, and can be controlled remotely.

Whether you're moving soon or will some time in the future, green home improvements boost value now. When it comes time to sell, these updates are sure to capture the attention of the modern homebuyer. ~ BrandPoint

OWN A PIECE Gayle Morris OF AUBURN 530.320.8177 HISTORY 141-155 Electric St. Auburn $415,000-$425,000

Newly Constructed Townhomes!! Canyon Trails & Downtown Auburn are Minutes from your Door. All have Attached 1-Car Garage & Additional Assigned Parking Space.

Custom Shaker Cabinets. Stainless Appliances. Quartz Countertops. Upstairs Laundry Room. Attention to Detail throughout. Hurry, Only a Few Remain! MLS #18033685

New Price

1373 Lincon Way Auburn $875,000

Location. History. Endless Possibilities. Gorgeous circa 1903 Victorian is on market for first time in 40 years! 4 units each w/own utility meters. Main floor is 2 units & currently leased by single business. Downstairs basement unit features 2bd/2ba w/full kitchen & laundry. Detached carriage house. MLS #18039828

www.gmorris.golyon.com DRE #01986541

6

GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

September 14-20, 2018 • GOLD COUNTRY HOMES

Property of the Week

1360 Cerro Vista Drive, Applegate Enjoy canyon views from this well maintained 2,880 SF, 3-4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on 2.99 acres with beautiful rock outcroppings. Chef’s kitchen offers induction cooktop, island, convection oven, custom cabinets, Blanco sink & dumbwaiter to downstairs entertainment room. Living room with floor to ceiling stone hearth, wood planked vaulted ceiling, floor to ceiling windows. Access to 2 newer decks from living area. Master suite with remodeled bathroom. Large family room with built in bar. Spacious bedroom with attached full bath. Additional room could be a great man cave, hobby or game room. 2 car attached garage with workshop area.

RV parking. Fenced garden. 6 minutes to I-80. MLS #18026203

Virtual tour http://1360cerrovistadrive.IsNowForSale.com

$649,000

Fabulous Views Danielle Larson 530.906.1889 DRE #01469169

Sierra Pacific Real Estate

7

6

GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

September 14-20, 2018 • GOLD COUNTRY HOMES

Property of the Week

1360 Cerro Vista Drive, Applegate Enjoy canyon views from this well maintained 2,880 SF, 3-4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on 2.99 acres with beautiful rock outcroppings. Chef’s kitchen offers induction cooktop, island, convection oven, custom cabinets, Blanco sink & dumbwaiter to downstairs entertainment room. Living room with floor to ceiling stone hearth, wood planked vaulted ceiling, floor to ceiling windows. Access to 2 newer decks from living area. Master suite with remodeled bathroom. Large family room with built in bar. Spacious bedroom with attached full bath. Additional room could be a great man cave, hobby or game room. 2 car attached garage with workshop area.

RV parking. Fenced garden. 6 minutes to I-80. MLS #18026203

Virtual tour http://1360cerrovistadrive.IsNowForSale.com

$649,000

Fabulous Views Danielle Larson 530.906.1889 DRE #01469169

Sierra Pacific Real Estate

7

8

GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

What about asbestos in the attic?

Dear Barry: W hen we bought our house, the home inspector said the heating ducts in the attic might be insulated w it h a sbe stos. He adv ised us to have the mater ia l tested by a n expert. So we hired an asbestos inspector and he said we may also have asbestos in the popcorn texture on our ceilings.

He wa s su r pr ised ou r home inspector reported on e s ou r c e o f w h i l e ignoring the other. What sta nda rds do home i n s p e c t or s u s e w he n checking for asbestos in a home?

Phil Dear Phil: Most home inspectors do not check for asbestos-containing materials because environmental ha z a rd s a re excluded

Barry Stone Inspector’s in the House

f rom t he sta nda rds of pract ice for t he home inspection industr y. In fact, most home inspect ion repor t s a nd contracts specif ica lly disclaim responsibility for such disclosures.

Inspections for environmental hazards, such as asbestos, lead, mold, etc. are separate and specialized fields and are not addressed by the home i nspect ion profession.

Some home inspection companies offer asbestos inspections as an added option, but most do not,

My advice to home inspectors who are not certified asbestos inspectors is to avoid this tricky area. because t hey t y pica lly lack t he cer t if icat ions necessa r y to per for m those services.

Home inspectors who are not certified as asbestos i nspectors ca n not legally provide consultation, evaluation, or even opinions related to asbestos-containing building m ater i a l s. I n sp e c tor s may suggest the likelihood of asbestos content, if they include a recommendat ion for f u r t her evaluation by an asbestos specialist. However, s uc h d i s c lo s u re s c a n expose home inspectors to legal liability. This is w hy mo s t i n s p e c t or s

avoid the subject.

When a home inspector identifies any particular material as likely to contain asbestos, as your home inspector did with rega rd to t he a ir duct insulation, persons who read t he i nspect ion report may reasonably assume that such considerat ion was uniform ly applied to other components of t he bui ld ing, such as the popcorn ceilings. If no other materials a re ment ioned i n t he report as potential sources of asbestos, one might a ssu me t hat a l l ot her materials are alleged not to contain asbestos. In

such cases, an inspector could be held liable if other materials are later d iscovered to conta i n asbestos.

My adv ic e to home inspectors who are not certified asbestos inspectors is to avoid this tricky a r e a . How e v er, i f a n except ion is made by reporting one potential source of asbestos, the inspector should clearly state that other sources of asbestos might be present in the building and that “further evaluation by a qualified asbestos inspector is advised.”

Dear Barry: My home inspector recommended that I install a pan under my washing machine to prevent moisture damage in case of a leak. When I tried to purchase a pan, no hardware

THIS IS HOME.

THIS IS WHERE AWESOMENESS HAPPENS.

Contact us for your Real Estate needs.

Auburn & Lake of the Pines License #00873741

530-268-1575 • 10193 Combie Road www.PlacerCounty4Sale.com • www.NevadaCounty4Sale.com

or appliance store seemed to carry them. Where can I go to obtain one?

Kevin Dear Kevin: O ver f low pa ns for washing machines a re not always supplied by stores because they are not commonly in demand. Most washing machines are installed without overflow protection, because pans are not requ i red by code.

This is an unfortunate om i s sion i n t he code because many home are damaged when washing machines leak. If you can’t find a pan at your local hardware store, you can order one online.

Distributed by Action Coast Publishing. To write to Barry Stone, visit him at www.housedetective.com.

September 14-20, 2018 • GOLD COUNTRY HOMES

The 'real cost' of owning a condo

Question: I purchased my condominium six months ago, and I am really enjoying my new home. My problem is I just received a bill for $5,000 from my home owner’s association.

They stated that this bill is a mandatory assessment. I thought that the reason I paid dues each month was to pay for assessments, etc. Do I really have to pay this bill?

Answer: Thank you for your good question and to answer you in short, yes, I am sorry, but you have to pay the special assessment.

The condominium lifestyle may seem footloose and fancy-free, yet it is still an ownership which comes with responsibility. A condominium

Kari McCoy The Real McCoy

is a home within a community where you own your own walls, floors and windows. Some say, “from the interior paint, inward.” Plus your fences and balconies are yours to enjoy and maintain, but they belong to the community. The condominium association typically owns everything outside such as the roof, the common lands beyond your fence, decks in front of the house, swimming pools, tennis courts, parks, driveways, the clubhouse and so on.

Along with the perks, many condominium complexes come with the costs of maintenance, repair and/or replacement.

For instance, you may not have to personally cut the lawn or tar the roof, maintain the pool, clean the clubhouse, etc.

However, you, along with all the other owners in the complex, will have to pay for your portion of the costs to have someone else do so.

The condominium dues are collected by the management company for the condominium complex. The dues are typically based on the square footage of your unit. This money may pay for common grounds maintenance, deck/steps, lighting electricity, waste disposal, the management com-

Sierra Pacific Real Estate 16898 Placer Hills Road Meadow Vista

www.sierrapacificrealestate.com

Lic. #01396513

pany fees, repairs of all common ground maintenance, plus reserve funds. The reserve account held by the association is used for emergencies. The home owner’s association can usually anticipate how much their fixed expenses will cost, but have no control over emergencies such as storm damage, liability lawsuits or accidents that could damage a unit and cost unexpected money to repair. If an emergency arises there could be cause for the association to create a special assessment in which will be applied in part to all the owners. This can occur if the reserve account amount is insufficient to cover the costs.

In the event an emergency occurs, community meetings are held

Call us to get Listed!

530-878-5100

and study groups are established. Experts are called in and the needs are evaluated along with the costs. One way is to charge a lump sum of money or to add this amount to the regular association fee spread out over several months.

Keep in mind, that even though there is the cost of this special assessment, there is also the benefit of keeping up the value of your investment in the value of your home.

Keep in mind some benefits you will enjoy are that you are sharing the costs of the “emergency” and someone else is organizing the cost estimates, overseeing the repairs and budgeting the repair costs, while you have more free time.

Before buying a condominium, you would be

wise to read all the following: The complex Bylaws, Covenants, condition and restrictions (CC&R”S), rules and regulation, reserve study, the minutes and agendas of previous meetings, resale certificate, and all recent news letter’s, if applicable.

Spend time at the complex and talk with some of the other owners that already live there. The most important of information to receive and study is the most recent budget of the complex that shows the real financial numbers. Your local Realtor will help supply you with all these important documents.

Kari McCoy owns the Kari McCoy Group, residential real estate at Lyon Real Estate. She can be reached at 916-941-9540 or email her at sold@karimccoygroup.com.

Making Your TransacTion EasiEr FroM BEginning To End

Fred Eichenhofer

Danielle Larson

Larry Scontrino Katherine Katches Glenda Harrison Maggie Francis

Lic. #00920443

Lic. #01469169

Lic. #01783426

Lic. #01724739

Lic. #00932970

Lic. #01992548

$560,000

DESIRABLE LOOMIS Home is 1860 SF with 3-4 bedrooms, 2 baths and walking distance to Quaint Downtown Loomis. Designed for 2 separate living quarters separated by pocket doors. Attached guest quarters recently add with kitchenette, bath and family room. Owned Solar! Call for More Information.

$575,500

SINGLE STORY IN SOUTH AUBURN. Home located in a highly desirable neighborhood w/views of Folsom Lake. Remodeled 3 bedroom 2 bath 1,834 SF home offers chef’s kitchen, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, and newer HVAC. Relax on the large deck, enjoy view! Separate patio w/built in BBQ off of the kitchen & dining area. This is a MUST SEE!

$399,500

END OF ROAD PRIVACY with local views on 3.8 acres! Room for your toys with RV parking and a workshop/garage. Home is 1542 SF with 2-3 bedrooms, 2 full baths with the potential of turning crawlspace into additional living area/square footage.

Seller will consider all offers.

$519,000

ENJOY COUNTRY LIVING IN TOWN! Private setting just walking distance from Downtown Newcastle. Enjoy all four seasons on this fully fenced 1 acre.

Home is 3 bedrooms with 2 baths with a 3-car detached garage. Floor plan is open and airy with views of landscape and trees galore. Easy access to freeway for commuting!

$649,000

GLORIOUS CANYON VIEWS from well maintained 2,880 SF home in Applegate. Chef’s kitchen offers induction cooktop, island, convection oven, custom cabinets, Blanco sink & dumbwaiter to downstairs entertainment room. Living room w/floor to ceiling stone hearth, wood planked vaulted ceiling, floor to ceiling windows to take in view. Master w/en suite remodeled bath: double sinks, shower & jetted tub. Downstairs offers 2 bds, entertainment room w/bar & atrium. 2 car attached garage.

$660,000

BRING YOUR TOYS, ANIMALS AND HOBBIES! Property boast a barn, cross fencing, new electric fence & dog run. Large Detached garage w/room for RV, boat, storage & more! 2700 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths on 1.8 acres in Meadow Vista. Large media room w/separate entrance leads out to patio & is wired for surround sound w/ wet bar & storage/pantry. Large Master Suite with a private balcony. Delightful master bathroom with jetted tub, walk-in shower, private commode and walk-in closet.

PRIVATE, WELL MAINTAINED, single story home overlooking the Bear River. Natural light abounds in this open concept floor plan. Great for entertaining & family living. Large kitchen w/dining bar, island & walk-in pantry. Master suite located on one end of home with 2 other bdrms on opposite end. Enjoy the special views amongst the trees on the spacious composite deck. Attached 2 car garage w/ workbench, sink & coated floors.

$520,000

GREAT FREEWAY ACCESS

$499,950

PRIVACY ABOUNDS this Single Story 4 Bedroom Home on 1 acre in Meadow Vista. Home is 1896 SF w/4 beds & 2 baths! Large laundry room, centrally located for convenience. Large Master suite leads out to back deck!

Master bathroom w/double vanity & separate shower over tub & commode. Property boast circle driveway, plenty of parking, fenced, garden, detached 2 car garage, room for animals all on 1 acre! Enjoy back deck looking over property perfect for morning coffee or entertaining.

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without the noise! Home is 4 bedrooms with 2.5 baths in Applegate. Huge Living room, complete with fireplace and convenient half bath! Kitchen has been newly remodeled! Butcher block counter tops with plentiful storage and counter space. Kitchen & Dining room lead out to large deck perfect for entertaining. Lovely fenced in backyard with plenty of room for playing, animals or garden! Front of home has plenty of parking, circular driveway, room for RV parking and guest parking.

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GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

How to properly store summer clothes to avoid a pest infestation As colder weather approaches, you may decide to store some of your summer clothes. However, when warmer tem-

peratures roll around again, you might not find those shorts and tank tops exactly as you left them.

Certain insects that feed

“You might have better luck using a BBR Realtor.”

Lic. #01077490

FRED MERRIAM

Broker Associate Certified Foreclosure Specialist

530-885-5858

fred_merriam@sbcglobal.net

Which insects eat clothes?

When you picture the kind of bug that finds its way into a closet and ruins your clothing, you probably think of a moth. The larvae of clothes moths feed on everything from synthetic fabrics to upholstery to stray pet or human hair. While adult moths don't actually eat fabric, the hungry larvae can ruin your summer clothing if they hatch where you've

Selling real estate the Wright way!

Providing Fantastic Living Opportunities in the Foothills 8300 Sisson Lane $195,000

P E N D IN G

Alta Retreat

$300,000

for keeping your boxed-up clothes safe.

on fabrics and textiles can leave your carefully stored clothing damaged and full of holes. But don't despair!

Your shirts aren't necessarily doomed. With some tips from Terminix, you can learn what kinds of bugs damage fabric and how you can best protect your outfits in storage.

2420 Black Rock Ln. $305,000

ED PRICE REDUC

Gold Run

$165,000

Keep clothes safe from pests this winter. stored your things.

In addition to moths, carpet beetles can also target textiles and fabrics.

The adults look like small ladybugs, but the larvae are the true danger to your clothes. They can feed on

COURTESY

wool, feathers, fur, linen, cotton and soiled synthetic fibers. While adults only live up to 60 days, they can lay as many as 100 eggs.

Once hatched, those larvae can be present for up to a year. That's not ideal

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY • 1-4PM 1070 MATSON DR., AUBURN $499,000

4 BR, 3 BA, 2724 SF, Remodeled, .43 Acre, In-law Quarters

11004 BLUE WING PLACE, AUBURN $790,000 5 BR, 4 BA, 4031 SF with pool in Southridge, just off of Humbug

1138 RACQUET CLUB DR., AUBURN $475,900 3 or 4 BR, 2.5 BA, 1914 SF, .37 acre A slice of heaven on seven level acres. Secluded and private Oak studded property. Perfect to put down your roots and build your home. Bring your animals and watch your garden grow.

Well on site.

Lose yourself and get away from the hustle and bustle on this 22.4 acres nestled in the high country. Multiple building sites give you plenty of options for your dream mountain home retreat. Multiple locations for fabulous Sierra views. There are two wells that have been installed. Perc & Mantle is complete for a standard system.

Clean and ready to move in. Freshly painted with new flooring and stainless steel appliances. Completely fenced and cross fenced with shelter for animals. Easy commute and close to miles of trails. Workshop and additional room for your imagination.

Jessica Wright

Escape the busy city life for your piece of the Gold Country.

Gorgeous level building area amongst the towering trees.

Enjoy this peaceful 19.9 acre lot by making it your own. Old logging access roads and a creek meander through the property.

Koylynn Webdell Lic. #00429178

Lic. #0219832

530-368-4226 11689 Lorenson Road ~ Auburn, CA

530-308-7676 530-885-8855

530-308-7676 or 530-885-8855

4065 RIVER WOODS DR., AUBURN, $585,000 3 BR, 2.5 BA, 2296 SF, .23 Acre, Pool

Mike Robinson Broker Associate

Cell: 530.906.0624

DRE #01121168

13555 Bowman Rd. #600 Auburn, CA 95603 Lic. #00429178 See all listings at: www.auburnhomes.com

How can you stop an infestation before it starts?

Keep a close eye on the places where fabric-eating bugs like to hide. This can include carpets, rugs, wall hangings and upholstered furniture. Vacuuming these areas can remove any larvae and help you prevent an infestation before it gets out of hand. Additionally, be sure to repair torn screens and block any cracks under your doors to prevent clothes moths from entering.

How do you store your clothes safely?

Another key to keeping your stored clothes bugfree is to clean them before packing them away.

Stains can attract hungry pests, so be sure to remove any obvious ones such as food or oil before boxing things up. Make sure to keep the area where you're storing your clothing as clean as possible as well.

Whether you're keeping things in a box, a closet or your attic, vacuum the area and wipe down any shelves and walls.

How do you handle an infestation?

If you find yourself with damaged clothes and an infestation too big to tackle alone, it's time to contact a specialist. Trained pest control professionals, such as Terminix's technicians, can help remove destructive pests so you can store your undamaged summer clothes safely in the future. ~ BrandPoint

FITZHENRY: The value of a home continued from 3 n e a r b y s e r v ic e s a nd amenities.

Does the home fit the neighborhood?

A popular real estate belief is that is it best to buy the “worst” house in a good neig hborhood.

Buyers are betting that the location will overcome the condition. Typically, these owners will improve the property over time with an eye towards maximizing value. Nonetheless, a well built, well maintained home in a good neighborhood will typically keep its value if the neighborhood retains its appeal. A home that suffers from poor design, energy inefficiency, structural and/or environmental issues will probably not retain its value. Size matters too. The cost to run a home scales to its size.

Bigger costs more.

Is a home an investment?

A home can be considered an investment but it is an illiquid asset.

Un li ke ot her investments, a home absorbs cash through the costs associated with owning it, like taxes, insurance and ma intena nce. A home doesn’t generate cash.

Home equity lines or refinancing schemes appear to negate this fact. In reality, they move debt around like cold peas on a child’s dinner plate. Homes are illiquid because they are not readily convertible to cash like a stock or bond.

Note: Air B’n’B schemes can offset some costs, but hyper-short term rentals can be problematic.

If you a re buy i ng a house as an investment, rent it out long term and hire a professiona l to manage it for you. In the long run, a good property management firm w ill save you time and protect your investment.

As always thank you for reading. If you have any questions about our local real estate market, please contact me at kfitzhenry@ golyon.com. Have a great week.

OPEN HOMES

September 14-20, 2018 • GOLD COUNTRY HOMES

Sat. Sept. 15

11

Open Saturday 2-4pm • 28015 Manzanita Trail, Colfax

Offered at $298,000

Kathleen Klopson

831.234.9148 Lic. #01133047

Level entry to sparkling great room with beautiful bright kitchen, dining and living room. Aprox. 1500 SF, 3 bdrm, 2 bath includes: 2 bdrms upstairs & downstairs mstr bdrm retreat with bath, immense walk-in closet, woodstove, private deck and entry that could be guest or in-law suite. New carpets, paint, flooring and more. 2 large decks, garage and parking room for all the toys and RV, bonus storage rm area. Meander through your .47 acres or walk through this picturesque alpine neighborhood. Move–in ready. Low HOA includes water and road maintenance. Close to mountains, lakes and rivers, easy commute access and minutes to town. Septic Clearance. MLS #18053108

Kathy Fitzhenry is a Realtor with Lyon Real Estate. You can reach her at 916-230-5362.

Auburn Women Who Mean

Business

An award-winning yearly section that offers the opportunity to make contacts and network with professional women.

BOOK YOUR SPOT TODAY! and be sure to nominate a candidate for the AJ’s Notable Women of the year at: tinyurl.com/WomenInBiz2018

Contact your advertising representative today!

530.885.5656 | ajads@goldcountrymedia.com

12

GOLD COUNTRY HOMES • September 14-20, 2018

Find us on Facebook: The Foothill Real Estate Coop !

ICE PR LUE! W A NE AT V E GR

Kristi Meyer

Granite Real Estate

916.847.5128

ItMattersToKristi@gmail.com Lic. #01421981

OPEN

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-3PM 228 Sacramento Street, Auburn

HOME IN OLD TOWN AUBURN! Offering multiple opportunities with its R3 Zoning, this almost 2100 SF home has 3-4 bedrooms and two full baths. Walk to town, park, fairgrounds. MLS 18044405 $369,000

T JUS

home@audreymurphy.com www.NegotiateYourWayHome.com Lic. #01865349

RE/MAX GOLD

530.200.9039

karybsmiley@gmail.com Lic. #01792711

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Laurie Whitton

SWEET BUNGALOW Large Lot • Fruit Trees • 1080 SF • 3 bed/1 bath • Good Bones • Ready for Updating. MLS 18063642 $430,000

SearchingPlacer.com

Coldwell Banker

530.401.5127 Lic. #01811228

17220 Winchester Club Dr., Meadow Vista STUNNING BRAND NEW 4339 SF HOME with views of the golf course. Open floor plan with main floor living and luxury contemporary finishes. See LuxuryGolfCourseHome.com for pics, video and details. MLS 18062745 $1,450,000

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Gene Cain

CHARMING, Updated, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in the heart of Auburn. At nearly 1600 SF this home will not disappoint you! MLS 18062699 $410,000

OPEN HOUSE SAT. & SUN. 1-3PM 574 Peach St • Newcastle

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Audrey Murphy

Coldwell Banker 916.595.7885 cell/ text

Kary Smiley

1-4P SAT.

Realtor, Co-owner Foothill Living Real Estate

530.305.5982

Explore the Sierra Foothills at www.foothill-living.com Lic. #01134833

BEAUTIFUL NATUREWOOD ESTATES! – Enjoy 3 acres with private & wooded views from this peaceful Meadow Vista setting.

3807 SF, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath with a 3 car garage. This home lives like a single story and includes a lower level with a separate entrance that has a spacious bonus room, 4th bedroom & full bath. Both treated & irrigation water!! MLS 18027502 $774,000

Tony Gosalvez

Broker-Associate LAKEVIEW HOME ON 1 ACRE!! Very rare 1 acre parcel with C21 Cornerstone a lakeview. This home has so much to offer: 2500 sf home 877.889-1214 with a separate 500 sf workshop in Lake of the Pines. It also C21@Foothill.net has a 900 sf garage, level driveway with so much parking Lic. #00811939 a rarity. All this on a great cul-de-sac location. $630,000

View Video at: https://vimeo.com/288840133

Christine Schlittenhart

Danielle Larson, Realtor VIEW OF FOLSOM LAKE Remodeled one story 3 bd, 2 Sierra Pacific Real Estate ba, 1,834 sf home in South Auburn. Chef’s kitchen, light 530.906.1889 & bright interior, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings. danielle@sierrapacificrealestate.com Newer HVAC. Large deck. 2nd patio w/built in BBQ. 2 Lic. #01469169 car garage w/lots of storage. MLS 18053286 $575,500

Broker/Owner Vista Realty Group

530.906.9738 REMODELED Country Cutie off Wine Trail & minutes christine@vistarealtygroupca.com from Hidden Falls Regional Park. 2 bd/2 bath on 1 Lic. #01704242 usable acre with room for horses. $489K.

CJ Jenkins

Century 21 Cornerstone

530.906.4715

cjc21foothill@gmail.com Lic. #10427700

AFFORDABLE SWEET HOME filled with good energy, and just waiting for your updating touches. Super clean w/brand new carpet.

Master on the main level & private from the 2 upstairs bdrms. Exceptional value!

MLS 18057522 $369,000

Kevin Capps The Capps Group

916.765.7732

kevin@cappsgroup.com Lic. #01705659

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www.ItsidealRealEstate.com 530.305.1593 Ben@itsidealrealestate.com Lic. #01075312

MAKE

MANUFACTURED HOME ON 258 ACRES. Amazing views and privacy. Good road. Off the grid, with generator, and leased propane. Here is your chance to have a get-away property surrounded by nature. MLS 17068196 $475,000

Mother Lode Realty 530.906.4985 www.AmySibley.com Lic. #01238927

Ken Meyer,

Realtor

Advantage Real Estate

530.906.8971

Ken@KenMeyer.net Lic. #00933339

THE GREAT ESCAPE! Perfect getaway or year round living. Cozy 2 bdrm, 1 bath home tucked nicely in theOPEN HOUS 4455 EBBERTS RA trees (1.98 acres). Privacy, peace & quiet. Open floorplan with lots of windows. Vaulted wood ceiling. Big woodstove to keep it toasty in the winter. MLS 18042038 $275,000

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Amy Sibley

Ben Richardson

Realtor Broker/Owner It’s Ideal Real Estate

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on large set back lot. Open floor plan with kitchen that overlooks living room.

MLS 18051934 $292,000

REMODELED CUTIE READY TO MOVE INTO! 3 BD, 2 BA, Office, 1400 SF +/- with a 2 Car garage and workshop! MLS 18056266 $285,000

Susan Kelly eXp® Realty, LLC 530.913.5474

susan.kelly@eXpRealty.com Lic. #01454377

OUTSTANDING 4 BED, 2 BATH FAMILY HOME IN DESIRABLE SULLIVAN RANCH. Granite & Stainless Steel kitchen, open floor plan, spacious 3 car garage. MLS 18062458 $527,000