Real Estate Guide 07.08.2022

ESTATE REAL G U I D E THE PRESS

JULY 8, 2022

Photo by First Last

The State of the Market

High prices dominate in a competitive landscape Photo courtesy of Adobe Photo

Choosing a Real Estate Agent The decision can affect your buying or selling success

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REAL ESTATE GUIDE

JULY 8, 2022

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How’s the real estate market doing? Did you know?

JENNA HARDS

W

hile the real estate

Although the general price of the average home for sale has declined since recordbreaking highs of the pandemic, prices remain elevated.

market has calmed

down since the record-

breaking highs during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many buyers are still seeing high prices in a competitive market.

Alongside the higher prices and competition, houses have also been on the market longer, local experts said.

“I think eventually we’re going to be going into a buyer’s market, I still see that inventories are pretty low,” said Heidy Hurst of Dudum Realty in Brentwood who has 23 years of experience in real estate. “Therefore, I do feel that we’re still in a seller’s market.”

“The other trend that I’m seeing lately too is sellers are becoming more realistic,” she added. “And they’re actually offering a lot of incentives to have a buyer purchase their property, for instance, seller credits, giving free rent-backs, you know, paying for closing costs, things like that.”

While sellers and Realtors are working on realistic offers and pricing, buyers are still facing a competitive market. However, Realtors still advise home buyers to get into

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

the market and take advantage of what is available.

“If you’re interested in getting into the market if you’re a first-time homebuyer – even though the interest rates are higher – because of the programs that are out there, it’s still a good time to start paying your own mortgage versus renting and paying somebody else’s mortgage,” said Mark Schweller, a real estate agent in California for 18 years who has experience statewide. “So buyers definitely don’t panic working with an experienced agent and lender to get into the market because there are really some amazing

advantages to being a homeowner.”

Schweller also discussed the market for sellers, highlighting the continued high demand for houses in Contra Costa and the healthy market as reasons for others to look into selling their houses.

Connecting with a good real estate agent can help with navigating the real estate market and finding the best house or buyer for you.

For more information about Heidy Hurst’s practice, visit her website at thehurstteam.dudum.com or Mark Schweller’s website at prospercalifornia.com.

When remodeling a home to attract prospective buyers, homeowners can benefit from taking stock of current trends, including the most popular home style. A recent Homes. com survey found the modern farmhouse style to be the most favored. The survey asked more than 5,000 U.S adults to choose from a selection of styles, including mid-century modern ranch, Spanish colonial/southwest, bohemian craftsman, Italianate, French chateau, and Tudor. The modern farmhouse style was most popular in 42 of the 50 states, proving home-style preference is not beholden to geography. Giving reasons for favoring the modern farmhouse look, respondents said the style is aesthetically appealing but not boring, with a look that is simple, cozy, and not too busy.

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REAL ESTATE GUIDE

JULY 8, 2022

4 tips for preparing your home to sell in today’s market

I

n the current market, houses are selling quickly, meaning there’s typically no need to spend time

and money on large home repairs and renovations to get an offer. Instead, homeowners should focus on quick, easy DIY projects to give their space a facelift before listing. Here’s how.

1. Enhance exterior appeal. “The exterior of your home sets the tone for what buyers can expect inside,” says Lindsey Mahoney, DIYer behind Building Bluebird and licensed Realtor with Rigali Group at Danberry. “If a buyer pulls up to a house where the outside is in disrepair, it sets off red flags that the home may have hidden issues from neglect.”

The simplest way to enhance your home’s appeal is to maintain the yard, regardless of the season or weather. Depending on the climate, homeowners should consider cutting the grass, planting flowers and greenery, raking leaves, or watering the grass and flowers.

If the home’s exterior needs a little more TLC, consider adding a pop of color to the front door with a fresh coat of paint, installing unique shutters for visual interest or updating to a new mailbox. Pull it all together with a seasonal wreath or welcome mat.

Photo courtesy of Statepoint Media

By taking simple steps, experts say your home will be in its best shape to hit the market – and maximize potential profit.

2. Paint as needed. Moving into the interior, spruce things up by refreshing walls with new paint. Rather than redoing every room, focus on painting over bright, bold colors with a neutral palette more likely to appeal to the masses.

To get started, tape off the room with FrogTape Multi-Surface Painting Tape. The tape is made with PaintBlock Technology, a superabsorbent polymer that instantly gels to form a

micro-barrier that seals the edges of the tape.

This will prevent bleed and leave the walls with crisp, clean lines that won’t need touch-ups.

3. Make minor repairs. As you’re gearing up to sell, pay close attention to minor things that may need to be updated or repaired. For example, leaky faucets, loose cabinet handles or doors that stick are all minor fixes – but ignoring them could leave potential buyers assuming that there are

larger problems within the home. Do a careful walkthrough before listing to look for any small fixes that need to be made.

4. Declutter and clean. A messy house is a major turnoff for potential buyers, so prioritize decluttering and cleaning. Start by eliminating as many personal items as possible, including toiletries, kids’ items and personal décor like family photos, fan memorabilia and religious and political objects. It’s also important to spruce up the appearance of beds, couch pillows and counters in the kitchen and bathrooms.

“If you have a small closet and your clothes are jammed into it, take out half so it looks like there is room to add more,” Mahoney recommends. “You don’t want your buyer’s first thought to be that they won’t be able to fit their belongings in the bedroom closet.”

Once things are organized, each room should receive a deep clean, including wiping surfaces, floors and baseboards, as well as cleaning any appliances, sinks, toilets and showers. As the open house approaches, open doors and windows for fresh air and natural light, leaving the home looking and smelling pleasant for potential buyers.

If you prioritize the right projects, preparing to sell is painless. By taking these four simple steps, your home will be in its best shape to hit the market – and maximize your potential profit.

– Courtesy of StatePoint Media

JULY 8, 2022

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CONTACT ME TODAY (858)-336-5200

Tracie Schmidt NMLS# 269424 tracie.schmidt@supremelending.com Notices. Everett Financial, Inc. dba Supreme Lending, NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org), 14801 Quorum Drive, Suite 300, Dallas, TX 75254 (877-350-5225).

Solicitations made to and applications accepted from residents in CA: Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice and may not be available in all states. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Supreme Lending is not affiliated with any government agency. Copyright © 2022. Everett Financial, Inc. dba Supreme Lending. All rights reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity Lender.

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JULY 8, 2022

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JULY 8, 2022

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Affordable ways to make homes more appealing to more modern buyers

H

ome trends come and go. Today’s must-have items tend to become tomorrow’s outdated features in the blink of an eye. Modern buyers want a lot out of their homes, and sellers can do their best

to meet those desires while getting the most money for their properties.

Homeowners who plan to stay in their current homes for years to come needn’t prioritize modern trends over personal preferences. However, homeowners looking to sell their homes can consider these favored features to increase their properties appeal to modern buyers. ♦ Separate laundry room: A separate room dedicated to laundry was the most desired feature among prospective home buyers, according to one survey. Though it might not inspire the awe of an outdoor living room or floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a wooded backyard, a laundry room fills a direct and universal need. Perhaps that’s why 87 percent of buyers want a room dedicated to laundry in a home. ♦ Exterior lighting: Drive through a modern suburban neighborhood at night and it won’t take long before you realize the popularity of exterior lighting. That’s no coincidence, as homeowners everywhere appear to embrace exterior lighting. Exterior lighting is the most sought-after outdoor feature, the survey reported. The good news for prospective sellers is that exterior lighting is an inexpensive and instant way to transform a property at night.

Some solar-powered lighting along walkways and outside the front door can make a home feel more safe, while some uplighting of large trees in the backyard can produce a sight to behold once the sun goes down. ♦ Energy-efficient upgrades: Inflation has driven up the cost of just about everything over the last year or more, and energy is no exception. As a result, 83 percent of prospective home buyers reportedly are looking for energy-efficient windows and appliances in a home. These features save money and benefit the planet, making them a win-win among buyers. ♦ Patio: Patio spaces have long been popular, but that popularity has reached new heights as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. When forced to stay at home for long periods of time, millions of people longed for ways to spend more time outdoors without breaking lockdown rules. Patios provide outdoor living spaces, and 82 percent of buyers indicated in the survey they wanted a patio with their next property. ♦ Side-by-side sink: A double or sideby-side sink is among the more affordable features buyers are looking for. At less than $1,000 on average, a side-by-sink is an affordable way to make a home more appealing to modern buyers.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Side-by-side kitchen sinks are sought-after features among prospective home buyers.

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JULY 8, 2022

What to look for in a real estate agent The rise in

all-electric homes

JENNA HARDS

I

n the peak of the moving season, buyers and sellers alike are looking for real estate agents to walk

them through this big process. But how to find the right one for you?

There are several qualities one should look for in a real estate agent, experts say.

Someone who is professional, reliable, available and trustworthy are key factors to think about when finding someone to help sell or buy your property.

“Experience is a big factor,” said Mark Schweller, a real estate agent with Prosper Real Estate who has worked in both Southern and Northern California.

“You definitely want to look for the number of years they’ve been in the business. It’s very important, because as the market changes, you want to make sure you have an agent that understands how to make adjustments when the market does change.”

Patrick McCarran, president of the Local Board of Real Estate for Brentwood and a Realtor for the past 21 years, also recommends going with someone who knows the area where you are buying.

“The reality is that your real estate

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

There are several factors to consider before choosing a real estate agent. Experience is an important one. agent is really a consultant,” McCarran said. “And so you have to pick somebody that you click with, that you get along with. Someone that you feel you can trust because you have to trust your agent.”

McCarran also advised looking at agent reviews. Referrals and reviews can help identify established agents and see

which one is right for you, he said. Having someone proactive who can help throughout the entire buying or selling process can relieve any stress that comes with the real estate market.

Contact either Schweller or McCarran at their websites at prospercalifornia.com or callpatricktoday.m.realtyonegroup.com.

When asked to think of modern homes, many people might think of minimalism, neutral colors, open-concept floor plans, and large windows without treatments. While each of those features are components of modern homes, just what qualifies as ‘modern’ is ever-changing and often a reflection of what buyers are looking for. Lately, many buyers are looking for all-electric homes.

A recent study by the U.S. Energy Information Administration found that the number of all-electric homes had increased over the previous decade.

In fact, the EIA study found that 25 percent of homes in the United States used only electricity. All-electric homes are generally considered more environmentally friendly because they lessen homeowners’ carbon footprint by reducing their need for fossil fuels like natural gas.

Electric heat pumps, induction stoves and electric fireplaces are just some of the technologies that can be found in allelectric homes.

Though the design style of all-electric homes needn’t be modern, the growing popularity of such homes makes them an option for modern homeowners.

Stephanie Whiting Branch Manager

(925) 305-6639 swhiting@themoneystore.com NMLS #994851 Branch NMLS #2356072

JULY 8, 2022

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

What the heck is going on?

I

nflation, gas prices, stock market freefalls, war in Ukraine, rising interest rates, non-stop chatter about a recession. What the heck?

Seven or eight months ago we were all flying high. The markets were doing great. There was no war. Interest rates were still among the lowest in history. Inflation smyflation!

What happened?

Well, we could talk for hours about what happened, and why it happened. It doesn’t matter what side of the aisle you are on, we can all come up with many reasons that everything turned upside down.

But rather than spend our time on that question, how about we address the more pressing question.

What the heck does it mean to me?

For most of us, we are busy with life and rather than analyze why this craziness is happening, we need to figure out how we are going to live with what is going on.

Inflation is currently at 8.5%. What that means is for every $1000 of income you receive, you now have $915 of buying power. If you are living paycheck to paycheck, that won’t sit well with you or your family.

Many of my clients do exactly that. They are living paycheck to paycheck. That doesn’t mean they can’t buy groceries or medications, but it does mean that there is not anything left over at the end of the month for splurging.

Think about the end of the month when you are writing out the payment for that last bill for $115 but you only have $30 left in your account. Do you call the company and ask for an extension knowing that next month is not going to be any better than today, and potentially will be worse?

AND can we all make note that this is happening and is not your fault and is not my fault. We had nothing to do with any of it and yet we are the ones who have to figure out how to deal with the situation that lands in our laps.

What the heck can I do about it?

So, what are our options? We can cut back on essentials like cable TV or data/minutes on our phone; we can call our kids for help; we can stay at home and skip lunch with friends, or bocce night. None of those things sound like fun, nor do they sound sustainable.

We were already facing longevity messing with our original retirement savings plan, then we were dealing with skyrocketing medical costs, now we have significant inflation at the grocery store and at the gas pump.

Financial Security is what we are all looking for, especially as we move into retirement. As one client told me, “Beth, until you retire, you will never know what it feels like when the income stops, and it is all outgo”.

Financial Security is defined by each person’s individual life experience. It may mean they need to have enough “left over” to go out to dinner frequently; or it might mean I just want to have a couple hundred left over at the end of the month. On the other hand, it may mean you want enough to be able to plan travel, to Europe, to see your grandkids, to go on a cruise every year, or every month.

There are several options for homeowners to cover the spending gap.

1. You can increase your retirement withdrawals.

This option will get you through this difficult time, but you will pay later. You will pay the IRS and you will pay when the funds you had counted on for later years are not there. How many other reasons come up that require us to make the tough call of “do I take extra funds out of my retirement to make it through”.

Just remember, there are no free lunches, if you take the funds now, you won’t have them later, and the IRS will come a knockn’.

2. With sufficient equity you can do a cash out refinance. Of course, this comes with the difficult qualifying that comes with a traditional conventional loan. And worse yet, comes with a monthly payment, in all likelihood a payment that is higher than the one you have now. So, this “solution” really puts you in a worse situation than you are in today.

3. You could go back to work. The difficulties with this option are obvious, with the biggest one being “I don’t want to, I helped make the wheel go round for 40 years!”.

4. You could take out a Home Equity Line of Credit. See number 2 above although the qualifying for a HELOC can be even more difficult because the lender is in second lien position which means higher risk to the lender.

5. If you have not yet retired, another option would be to stop, or slow down, contributing to your retirement plan. You can use the money that would go into your plan for today’s expenses. Keep in mind that there are “repayment terms” to these types of decisions. In this case, the funds won’t be a part of your future retirement plan and will not benefit from the growth over time.

Several of these options come with future consequences or tax implications or difficulties that make them impossible and therefore, not real solutions.

One solution that is very viable for most homeowners, is the one and only Lifetime Forbearance program, a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage provides tax free proceeds, does not impact your current retirement plan or your retirement savings, and is designed to provide you access to some of your equity today, while saving some equity for future use when you may need it most.

The most important thing for all of us to do is to educate ourselves. You would not buy an annuity without research. You wouldn’t buy a car without research. Don’t decide for, or against, a reverse mortgage without research.

Oh, I know… you asked your Aunt, or your neighbor, and they said ‘oh those are bad’. When you ask why they are bad, they aren’t quite sure, they just

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Beth Miller-Rowe has been in the mortgage industry for 38 years specializing in reverse mortgages for the past 12 years. Beth has degrees in economics and business administration. heard that somewhere.

Let’s spend some qualify time, an hour or so, talking about your financial future and financial security. You decide if a lifetime forbearance is right for you or not, either way is okay, just make sure you educate yourself about the truths versus the myths about reverse mortgages.

We can meet in my Pleasant Hill office, or Zoom, or just do it the old fashioned way and talk on the phone. Whatever works for you, is good for me. I look forward to chatting soon.

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Let’s take a look and see if we can Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True.

Beth Miller-Rowe NMLS: 294774

Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist

The Reverse Mortgage Group • A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corp.

Office: 925-969-0380 Cell: 925-381-8264 Beth@YourReverse.com

3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True!

A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

DRE: 00950759/01215943 • NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out.

Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.

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How to get the best mortgage financing

F

Consider a mortgage broker.

ew people are able to walk into a home, like what they see and then pay for a

Mortgage brokers will serve as the middle person in the transaction. A broker’s access to several different lenders can translate into a greater array of loan products and terms from which to choose.

house in cash. In the vast majority of home

purchases, mortgages make the dream of home

Learn about rates.

ownership a reality.

Become informed of the rate trends in your area. Lower rates translate into significant savings amounts per month and over the life of the loan. The rate may be fixed, though some are adjustable-rate mortgages (also called a variable or floating rate). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and a financial consultant can discuss what might be in your best interest.

“Not all rates and fees are treated the same when it comes to mortgage shopping,” Whiting cautions. “You can have a good rate, but a lot of junk fees, a decent rate with average fees, or a slightly higher rate with no costs. But it’s best to check with your local lender for what they offer.”

Getting a mortgage requires research and some preparation on the part of borrowers if they hope to get the friendliest terms possible.

Homes are substantial, decades-long investments, so it’s smart to shop around to find the best rates and lenders available. These tips can make the process of applying and getting a mortgage go smoothly, and may even help borrowers save some money.

Learn your credit score.

Your credit score will be a factor in determining just how much bargaining power you have for lower interest rates on mortgage loans, according to the financial resource NerdWallet. The higher the credit score, the better. Well before shopping for a mortgage, manage your debt, paying it off if possible, and fix any black marks or mistakes on your credit report.

“Credit Karma and other apps and companies that provide credit scores for free are not the same type of credit scores that are used when applying for a mortgage,” says Stephanie Whiting, Branch Manager and Loan Officer at The Home Loan Hub powered by The Money Store in Brentwood.

“If you’re unsure of your score, you can always have a local lender pull credit to see where it is, then you can strategize on that you’d need to get it higher so you can get pre-approved.”

Investigate various lenders.

The Federal Trade Commission says to get information from various sources, whether they are commercial banks, mortgage companies, credit unions, or thrift institutions.

Each is likely to quote different rates and prices, and the amount they’re willing to lend you may vary as well.

Investigating various lenders can help you rest easy knowing you got the best rate for you. Lenders may charge additional fees that can drive up the overall costs associated with getting a mortgage. Compare these fees as well so you can be sure you get the best deal.

Discuss points with your financial advisor and lender.

Some lenders allow you to pay points in advance, which will lower the interest rate. Get points quoted in dollar amounts so they’ll be easier to compare. If you’re unfamiliar with points, discuss the concept with your financial advisor.

“Local lenders have much more influence in the real estate community. It’s a relationship business, thus all the more reason to use a local lender, as it helps to get your offer accepted versus a big bank or call center based mortgage company,” Whiting said.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative Staff writer Melissa van Ruiten contributed to this story.

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Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

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Oakley expected to get 57 new houses SEAN TONGSON

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new 57-unit housing development is expected to go near Creekside Park.

The Honey-Creekside Subdivision will feature detached, single-family homes, ranging in size from 2,518 to 2,777 square feet of living area, to be constructed on 10.6 acres of land near Honey Lane just south of Creekside Park. With construction contingent on the developer’s schedule, the exact start date is unknown, but city officials anticipate that site work will begin in early to mid-summer this year.

“The Honey-Creekside Subdivision will provide new housing options to existing Oakley residents looking to upsize their homes, and to new Oakley residents alike,” said Oakley Planning Manager Kenneth Strelo. “The location, being adjacent to Creekside Park and the Marsh Creek Trail, will offer active and passive recreational opportunities in close proximity to future residents. The project is also dedicating a portion of its land along Marsh Creek for a future creek restoration project that will connect to and extend the existing restoration area along Creekside Park.”

All proposed development projects undergo analyses of their potential traffic

Photo by Sean Tongson

A 57-unit housing development is slated for 10.6 acres near Honey Lane just south of Creekside Park. impacts, both specifically caused by the project and with a cumulative traffic analysis of current conditions and planned build-out of the city, according to city officials. For the cumulative traffic analysis, new construction pays traffic impact fees with each building permit for a new home or construction of a building. Project officials are also expected to make additional improvements in the

area, said Felicia Escover, Oakley’s Assistant to the City Manager.

“Honey Lane will be dedicated and improved, and all project streets will be dedicated and fully improved,” said Escover.

“The project will include a wider sidewalk on the west side of one of the streets on the northern parcel that will connect Honey Lane pedestrians to Creekside Park.”

The development, which will be constructed in an established neighborhood, has reportedly faced no substantial opposition.

“It’s difficult to speak for all residents and their feelings,” Escover said. “In general, infill development (building on an unused portion of an existing development) is usually challenging because it takes place in an area with established residents or businesses. Even with a right to develop a property, care must be taken to accommodate the existing residents or businesses and their quality of life. When processing development applications, Oakley strives to balance the rights of the developer with the quality of life of the existing residents.”

During construction, city-established regulations dictate the allowable hours of construction that must be followed by all contractors and subcontractors of a development. To reduce impacts on surrounding properties, several practices must be followed, such as watering exposed soil, to reduce dust, and daily sweeping of nearby streets, to keep the project area well-maintained during the grading phases.

Additionally, public involvement is invited; developers are encouraged by the city to reach out to neighbors and hold neighborhood meetings, to explain the project to nearby residents and gauge their feedback.

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Granny units: Can they solve the housing scarcity?

K A I T LY N G L E E S O N

A

s real estate prices rise and homelessness increases throughout California, the

state in 2018 passed laws that allowed for the building of ‘accessory dwelling units’ (ADU), sometimes called second units or granny units. These units are smaller houses/units that landowners could build on their properties in which family members, friends, or tenants could reside. Officials hoped they could reduce or eliminate problems of expensive housing, homelessness, and the housing shortage.

From 2018 to 2020, California jurisdictions permitted 33,881 ADUs, and 22,695 ADUs were added to the state’s housing supply, according to ADUCalifornia.org.

“They weren’t that popular at all two and a half years ago because it was only then that the state passed the current laws that allow for ADUs,” said Ray Schnibben, prop-

Photo courtesy of State of California

From 2018 to 2020, the state granted permits for 33,881 granny units, and 22,695 of them were built, according to ADUCalifornia.org. erty manager, eviction attorney, and facilitator for granny unit construction. “Since the beginning of 2020, when the state enacted the current laws pertaining to construction of ADUs and also pertaining to splitting single family lots – that qualify – into two lots so that ADUs can be built on both lots… there has been a tremendous upsurge in people interested in ADUs.” The reason for building a granny unit can vary from person to person. “[The purpose] depends on who they are,” said Schnibben. “If they are a landlord, the main

purpose is to increase rent revenue. But if they are not a landlord and live in the house themselves, they usually do it to accommodate a family member.”

Schnibben explained the growing popularity of such units. “[It’s] the money they can get out of it, plain and simple. Landlords can rent them out as an additional unit or their family can use them.”

Then there’s the construction. “The (building) process takes about six months,” Schnibben said. “The process is basically having an architect or building designer

prepare blueprints. Then those blueprints have to be taken to the planning department. The planning department reviews them, notes any changes they want made in the plans, and then the designer/architect has to make those changes, (if there are any), and if there are no changes to be made, then the contractor pulls the building permit and starts building the property.”

The length of the building process can vary as it depends on how quickly permits are able to be acquired, he added.

“There are two city departments involved, actually,” Schnibben said. “There is the planning department, which approves the plans, and then there is the building department, which oversees the construction of the house as well as complying with the building codes. During the 3- to 4-month period, the building department does a few inspections. At the end of it all, when everything is complete, the building permit gets signed off by the city, and then the owner can go ahead and use the building for whatever purpose they wanted originally.” According to Schnibben, the cost of these houses can vary, but normally is about $200 per square foot.

“The impetus behind all this is the fact that housing is so scarce in California,” Schnibben said. “That is why the Legislature passes all these laws. They are trying to fix this problem of the price of housing and it being so scarce.”

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Simple strategies to meet the neighbors after moving

A

lot goes into building safe,

dents to connect with their neighbors

focus on your career and where you grew up. If you grew up in the area where you recently moved, some of your neighbors likely did as well. Sharing stories about your school days and/or local hotspots can be a great way to break the ice. Don’t hesitate to ask some questions of your own as well. Asking questions might reveal some common interests that can serve as strong foundations for budding relationships.

can greatly benefit local neighbor-

Host a backyard barbecue

strong communities. While no single factor can be

highlighted as more important than another in regard to building strong communities, a willingness by resi-

Backyard barbecues are laid-back affairs, and that pressure-free atmosphere is perfect for meeting new neighbors.

Once you have settled in, invite a handful of your neighbors over for the barbecue.

If you have children, invite neighbors who also are parents, ideally ones whose children are the same age as your own. Kids have sparked many a conversation, and discussions about local schools, parks and programs for youngsters can be great ice breakers.

hoods and the people who call those communities home.

According to Mental Health America, a community-based nonprofit that promotes the mental health of all Americans, research has shown that social connections increase happiness and lead to improved overall health and even longer lives. Adults may find that establishing a connection with their communities, and maintaining that connection while juggling the responsibilities of work and a family, is not always easy. That’s especially so for adults who have recently relocated to new areas. Talking to neighbors can be a great way for adults to build new relationships that can benefit them as individuals and strengthen their communities.

Strong communities are built around people. When moving to a new commu-

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Reaching out to neighbors can be a great way for adults to build new relationships that can benefit them as individuals and strengthen their communities.

Volunteer

nity, adults can overcome the challenges such relocations present by taking various steps to connect with their new neighbors.

introducing themselves to their new neighbors. Say ‘hi’ and tell them what inspired you to move to your new neighborhood.

Don’t be shy

Answer and ask questions

People often want to know who’s living next door, so adults who have recently moved need not be shy about

Volunteering with organizations is another great way to meet new neighbors.

Volunteering with an organization whose mission you identify with may be even better, as you’re likely to find like-minded neighbors who share your passions when working with such groups.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

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Enhance lighting Brightening a space in a rental can be tricky if you have limited windows or ceiling fixtures that can’t be upgraded.

Enhance your area by adding new table lamps and installing lighting in sections that might need more illumination, like under cabinets or in closets. Secure push lights or rope lighting with a removable adhesive like Duck Max Strength Nano-Grab Gel Tape, which provides easy mounting with extreme holding power.

Nano-Grab’s double-sided gel adhesion creates a clean look, with a removable grip so you can clean the space after you move.

Create eye-catching walls in bathrooms and kitchens

A quick, straightforward way to make an ordinary bathroom feel a bit more spa-like is to swap out your showerhead. There are simple-to-install options that include everything from a large, flat rainfall experience to a handheld nozzle for ease of use. Best of all, they can be installed manually without the help of a plumber and are simple to change, meaning you can uninstall your new fixture and take your upgraded experience with you wherever you go.

Ensure safe and healthy water for drinking, bathing and cooking with our convenient whole-house filtration systems.

Showcase your personality Infusing a bland space with a touch of personality is the best way to transform it into a cozy, sophisticated living area. Add fresh pops of color with lush plants in bright pots or vases. Wall décor like artwork, macrame hangings or photo collages can add hues to empty walls and enhance the mood of a room. If your landlord is a little more flexible, painting an accent wall, hallway or even adding a stripe or paint pattern into a bare space can bring your rented space to the next level.

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17B

Add some shower power

B

Investing in high-end upgrades like new tile or flooring isn’t an option when renting, but reinventing the space with quality removable items is possible.

Enhance your bathroom walls or kitchen backsplash using a product such as Duck Brand EasyLiner Brand Removable Adhesive

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Shelf Liners. The sheets adhere directly over existing tile or paint and can be removed easily, which means you can choose from the wide variety of fashionable designs and trendy patterns as often as you’d like.

D

If you’re given approval to customize your rental, be sure to store anything you remove and keep a list of any other physical changes you make in order to ensure your security deposit is returned when your lease concludes. It’s also best to research and purchase items that don’t damage the wall.

G

Apartment from page 16B

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• 141 Sand Creek Rd, Brentwood

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Experts say there are several factors to consider before showing a rental property.

Tips to consider before showing a rental property

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Real estate investors who intend to rent their properties will have to periodically show them to prospective tenants. The process of showing a rental property begins before such tenants arrive to look at the home. Landlords who want to get the best possible return on their real estate investments can consider these tips before showing their properties. ♦ Work with your existing tenants.

If tenants are currently in the property, work with them to ensure the home or apartment is ready to show. Provide advance notice when you will be showing the property so your current tenants have plenty of time to clean up and make arrangements to be elsewhere when prospective renters show up. Existing tenants likely won’t want the place to be a mess during a showing, but you need to give them time to clean up.

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♦ Address any problems before showing the property. Does a screen door need to be fixed? Does the shower need to be grouted? Address these issues.

Failure to do so will give prospective renters the impression that you don’t respond to problems promptly, and that may give many second thoughts about becoming your tenant. ♦ Make yourself available. Landlords don’t have to be present at a showing, and some prospective tenants might prefer to see a property with only their Realtors present. But landlords should make themselves readily available, answering questions promptly via email, text message or over the phone if they don’t plan to attend showings. This gives potential renters a strong first impression of you as an attentive landlord. ♦ Provide details about the property.

If you’re using a real estate agent to show the property, then he or she will no doubt create a listing that highlights various things about the home or apartment. This includes the number of rooms, utilities, parking, and other details renters will want to know. If you are showing the property yourself, create such a packet for renters. This makes it easy for them to make a decision, and they’ll likely be impressed by your attention to detail.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

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Short sale versus foreclosure – what’s the difference?

S

hopping for real estate may

require prospective buyers to learn a whole new language.

Buyers may come across certain terms they don’t understand. Among the more common terms that first-time buyers may not fully understand are ‘short sale’ and ‘foreclosure’.

According to Realtor.com, short sales and foreclosure auctions occur when homeowners fall behind on payments and can no longer afford to live in a home. A short sale happens when a homeowner owes more on the mortgage balance than the market value of the property when the owner needs to sell. The homeowner can ask the mortgage lender to accept a lesser amount than the total mortgage owed – making the homeowner/seller short on paying the lender back.

A foreclosure is a legal process that occurs when a borrower cannot make mortgage loan payments for a significant period of time. If the debt is not recouped, lenders will step in and take ownership of the property, putting it up for sale in a foreclosure auction.

While these situations can be troublesome for the homeowner facing financial peril, such properties can be advantageous for buyers who oftentimes can buy homes at steep discounts. However, short sales and foreclo-

19B

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sures are not without challenges.

The real estate experts at Zillow.com say that foreclosures and short sales involve more layers than traditional transactions. Zillow says bank lenders historically can be slow at giving approval for mortgages to purchase short sale properties or even agreeing on an amount for the sale. As a result, buyers may miss out on other opportunities while waiting for short sales to move along.

Foreclosures carry their own hurdles.

Buyers may not get a chance to even see a foreclosure property, nor be eligible to have it inspected, as foreclosed homes are typically sold as-is and at auction. The real estate agency Re/Max says buying a foreclosure typically is faster than buying a short sale, and an investor can buy a foreclosed home for below market value. But foreclosures cannot be contingent on the sale of another home, so a buyer must have funds in place and be ready to move quickly.

Short sales are often initiated by homeowners looking to avoid foreclosure. As a result, short sale properties may be in decent condition. This may not be the case with a foreclosure. The American Society of Home Inspectors says foreclosed homes may have been neglected by having utilities turned off and no maintenance done on the home. Other homes may have been purposefully vandalized by the former owner or by squatters.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

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WE DO PROJECTS OF ANY SCALE Competitively Priced and Warrantied

Contractor Lic. #958539

925 625-0920 tel 925 584-5234 cell Jose Velez

velezlandscaping@live.com

NOTICE TO READERS California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800321-CSLB. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

925-634-1441 Water Heaters

C-10 LIS# 1032135

ELECTRICAL

CALL TO ADVERTISE

FREE ESTIMATE

Water Heater Service Pro LLC SERVING ALL OF EAST COUNTY

TANK OR TANKLESS

• MAINTENANCE • REPLACEMENTS • REPAIRS

925-483-6744

925-628-7520

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

Painters

Window Cleaning

C. P. C.

LIC. #1056925

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

General Construction & Painting D MEDAL OL RD

20 20211 AWA

THE PRESS O RE NT WO

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Specializing in all phases of your construction needs

23

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LED Lighting

LED LIGHTING FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

For free estimates call:

C. P. C.

925-634-1441

FREE ESTIMATES

Lic. #905195 / Bonded

Lic. B-1003881

General Construction

Office: 510.323.3190 Cell: 925.698.4531

925-513-1899

SIL

BR O

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SIL

BR O

E MEDA NZ AWARD

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R MEDAL VE AWARD

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New Lawns, Sprinkler Systems, Fences, Stamp Color Concrete, Retaining Walls, Free Estimates

ROOFERS

Your ad here!

Non-licensed

ER MEDAL LV

Landscaping & Maintenance

CALL TO ADVERTISE

925-864-0969

• • • • • • •

NEW VIEW

Landscapers & Design

(925) 439-8271

Roofing

925.727.8152

Call Today! 925-371-COOL www.okheatingandair.com

Water Heater Replacement Tankless Water Heaters Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement Camera sewer line inspection with DVD copy • Whole House Re-Pipes • Drain Cleaning

www.firstclasswaterheaters.com

FREE ESTIMATES

Over 40 Years Experience in: A/C & Heating System Repairs Heating & A/C Installation and Replacement Monthly Service Agreements Emergency Service Available Financing Available

• • • •

CA Contractor Lic# 102438

QUALITY WORK

Lic.#533790

General Contractor

Lic #898540

Perez

YARD SERVICES

FAIR PRICES

MEDAL LD AWARD

20 2 1442013

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

• Service • Repair • Installation

ALL AREAS OF MAINTENANCE

Installed within 5-10 days

AWARD

THE PRESS Y OA K LE

Call or email

Frameless Glass Showers

R MEDAL VE AWARD

D MEDAL OL

20 20211

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Water heaters, dishwashers, copper repipe, faucets, etc.

GO

NO JOB TOO SMALL!

GLASS REPLACEMENT SPECIALIST

2021

FAIRVIEW HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING G

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Fix It Man

Frameless Glass

Serving Contra Costa & Alameda Counties

DISCOUNT

Heating & Air

Heating & Air

Plumbers

Law Enforcement Military & Senior

925-698-8662

Handyman

HE RESS

Lic #1066494

Lic.#990581

Rick Burgard

ESTIMATE!

925-775-5036

Commercial & Residental

AWA

www.hennesseysfencing.com

FREE Removal of old shower door included.

SPECIALIZING IN

Pavers, Artificial Grass & Stamped Concrete

D MEDAL OL RD

D

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Residential & Commercial • Fencing • Decks • Arbors • Gates • Redwood • Metal • Wrought Iron 20 2T 0P211 O RE • Chain Link • Vinyl • Lic #899814 NT WO

(925) 339-1419

Quality service, competitive prices and reliability are just a few of the reasons customers of RB Handyman Services recommend the locally-owned company for all their home remodeling jobs – big or small. Just check out the reviews on Yelp and you’ll see that RB Handyman Services has a reputation for standing behind their work, providing a positive, experience and offering only topnotch quality products and craftsmanship. If you’ve got a residential or light industrial project in your future, RB Handyman Services is the company to call.

www.brentwoodglasscompany.com

UNBEATABLE PRICES

Call today for FREE

G

Electrician

ELITE LANDSCAPING

Quality and More!

D

Are You An

Lic#858654

All Types of Glass Replacements Frameless Shower Glass Specialist

Painters

WINDOW CLEANING

(925) 679-2982

Brentwood Resident / Fully Insured

Lic #898540

www.r12windowcleaning.com

Family owned and operated

408-372-7712