We knock down barriers to help you get your VA offers accepted. We strive to make your purchase offer viewed as equal to or more desirable than FHA or conventional loans. We also provided full underwriting approval before you go out looking for your home.
No down payment required
VA loans as high as $5 million*
Veterans can have multiple VA home loans at the same time
100% gift funds allowed
Not limited to first time homebuyers
Manufactured homes OK VA loans provide quick closings
Reservists/National Guard qualify for VA benefits
No VA “non-allowable” fees
*Loans to $2 million with no change to VA guidelines, as high as $5 million with sticker guidelines. All dependent upon available entitlement.
Hero Employee Loan Program
Hero Homebuyers are entitled to the best deal possible when it comes to financing their home. We are grateful for all that our Heroes do and want to provide them a way to kickstart their dreams.
TWO GREAT AGENTS + TWO DIFFERENT COMPANIES = UNSURPASSED RESULTS!
Guarantee to Sellers: Will sell your home for more $ than comparable properties or will PAY YOU $!
Have 1000+ successful seller + buyer transactions in combined careers. Not kidding!
Professionally stage our listings at NO COST to sellers
Provide professional photography plus virtual tours at NO COST to sellers
Some listing agents require sellers to do major remodeling before going on the market. We don’t! We usually sell for top $ regardless of condition
For sellers on a budget, we have a curated list of exceptional vendors & tradespeople. (For example, our painters can usually beat the competition in both quality and price.)
For out-of-area sellers, we can arrange and be on site for all repairs, inspections, cleaning services, and movers
For sellers in a rush, we can have your listing on the MLS in under 24 hours
With seven years in the appraisal industry, we can more accurately predict the price a home can sell and—most importantly--appraise for!
Have decades of experience helping owners sell single family homes, townhomes, condos, short-sale homes, probate properties, and multi-units
Steve & Courtney Agent X
Rea l GUIDE E state
ALAMEDA COUNTY
WHAT OTHERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT ME
Doreen is a consummate professional. She thoroughly knows her business and communicates well with her clients. We appreciate her attention to detail and friendly approach when interacting with us. We would definitely use her again and would highly recommend her to our family and friends.
John
Doreen is an awesome agent and anticipates every need and want. We were given advice that resulted in an immediate and above market price sale. I would use Doreen a thousand times over if possible. Her positivity and outlook on life is extremely contagious. Her professionalism is above and beyond approach.
David
Doreen was not only a pleasure to work with personally but for my whole family! I have already referred her and will continue to do so!
Brian
HOME REFLECTS PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP...
and ready for new owner to create their forever dreams! This home offers a light and bright great room, floor to ceiling dual pane windows, vaulted ceiling with wooden beams, wood-burning brick fireplace with raised hearth, separate formal dining room, beautifully updated kitchen, tons of cabinet space including 2 appliance caddy’s and built-in wine rack, granite counters, large island with stained glass pendant lighting, great space for entertaining. Past renovation created an expansive dining area, builtin cabinetry offering generous storage space, great addition for those who work from home or perfect homework station, 2nd wood burning fireplace was part of original construction, both baths have been tastefully updated.
Private backyard with covered patio, great space to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner or relax while watching over the kids swimming in the Gunite pool, 2 car garage w/insulated roll-up door, white vinyl fencing and more! Home is located close to Antioch BART station, freeway access in all directions, bus stops, schools, shopping, medical facilities, Contra Loma Regional Park, great place for hiking, access to the Delta, and many great eateries!
ANTIOCH • $599,950
VIEWS
PATRICK McCARRAN
SHADOWLAKES
BRENTWOOD 3/2 1887 SQ FT $770,000
Nestled in the desirable Garin Ranch neighborhood of Brentwood, this stunning 1,887 sq ft single-story home, built in 1998, has been meticulously maintained. With a spacious open floor plan, it offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. The beautifully updated kitchen features expansive butcher block countertops, vibrant backsplash, stylish cabinetry, open shelving, and accent lighting. A charming breakfast nook & tile flooring complete the inviting space. The primary suite is a serene retreat, featuring an updated spa-like bathroom with dual sinks, stall shower, cozy vanity area, and spacious walk-in closet. Additional highlights include beautiful light fixtures, a convenient indoor laundry room with built-in cabinets, water softener, and an attached 3-car garage with ample storage, workbench, utility sink, and extra shelving. Situated on a beautifully landscaped 6,500 sq ft lot, the backyard offers low-maintenance dry scape, tranquil fountain, accent lighting, and plenty of space for entertaining or peaceful relaxation. This exquisite single-story home is a must-see!
BRENTWOOD 2/2 1451 SQ FT 55+ COMMUNITY $718,000
Welcome to Kindred & Balfour by Shea Homes, an intimate 55+ community in the East Bay. This stunning two-bedroom, two-bathroom plus study AREA, corner-lot home is filled with natural light and neutral tones, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Pristine, the walls have never seen a nail, and the carpet has never been walked on with shoes, making this home feel like it came straight from the developer. A $20,000 backyard upgrade adds stylish cement work, artificial grass, and beautiful landscaping, creating a serene outdoor retreat. Exciting amenities are coming soon. At final build-out, the clubhouse will include pickleball courts, a unique spool (spa/pool combination), a park, bocce ball courts, and a fully equipped kitchen for community events. Walk to the Golf Course - Brentwood Golf Course right next door and play a round, or drive just minutes to downtown and enjoy multiple places to eat or shop. Don't miss the opportunity to call this exceptional home yours. NEW LISTING:
2019 Realtor® of the Year, Delta Association of Realtors® 2023 & 2025 President, Delta Association of REALTORS®
CA DRE License #01230273 cell 925.325.2170
www.BuySellRent925.com @BuySellRent925
CONCORD - FIXER-UPPER WITH HUGE POTENTIAL! $550,000
Looking for your next project or investment opportunity? This 3-bedroom, 1-bath single-story home is full of promise and priced to sell! Situated on a spacious 9,000 sq ft lot, there's room to expand, remodel, or reimagine — the possibilities are endless.
Prime Location Perks:
• Easy freeway access for a smooth commute
• Close to popular retail centers, a classic drive-in, medium-sized airport, and a fun-filled water park
• Central and convenient
Whether you're an investor or a future homeowner ready to build equity, this property is your blank canvas. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
Listedat$174,450
GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR A 4 BEDROOM HOME IN BRENTWOOD!
Sunset Crossing community sits just over 1.5 miles from the bustling Downtown area with a large green space connecting to Marsh Creek Regional Trail. Near Sunset Park Sports Field, restaurants, dog-friendly brewery, and shopping.
TRANSPARENT PRICING at $599,000
3 Bedroom, 2.5 bathroom corner unit. Freshly pained. New stove. Close to shopping mall, Travis Air Force Base and Hwy 80. Ready to move in. Call us for details
MAJESTIC HOMES
The New Broker In Town
Hire Cathleen Griebling if you want someone who is knowledgeable, professional, and determined to getting your home sold. We can’t say enough good things about Cathleen. She knows her stuff. We hired Cathleen based on recommendations from family and friends who had used her in their real estate transactions. There is no doubt that we would hire her again in a heart beat to handle any future real estate needs. Whether your buying or selling, it is so important to have a knowledgeable real estate professional watching your back and negotiating the best terms for you. Thank you Cathleen Griebling.
Robert T.
Cathleen is a true professional! She knows the business inside and out, works hard for her clients and follows through. We've had the pleasure to work with her on multiple occasions. Cathleen has helped us purchase 2 properties and sell 3 over the last 10 years. Even with the drastic ups and downs in the housing market over the last decade, she doesn't miss a beat. I can't recommend a more hardworking and trustworthy realtor.
Heather
Cathleen Griebling is a true real estate professional. She knows her community, the market and the best way to sell or buy a home. She has the utmost integrity and will be completely honest with you about how the process works, what you should know and expect. She works well with others and you can trust that Cathleen will do whatever it takes to get your deal done. I highly recommend Cathleen Griebling and due to her hard work my house sold over the listing price in the midst of Covid-19
. Julie
OAKLEY $80,000 Perfect Place for 55+ COMING SOON. 1 Bedroom /1 Bath 728 sqft. Kitchen Update with Countertops, Cabinetry, Appliances, and Laminate Flooring. XXL Primary Bedroom with 2 lrg closets! Stack Washer/Dryer, Refrigerator Incl. Wheelchair accessible. Park Space rent Lowest in the area. Call for a preview showing!!!
• Low Credit Score - Lenders want to see a history of responsible borrowing. A lower score can raise concerns about repayment ability.
• High Debt to Income Ratio - If too much of your income goes toward existing debts, lenders may see you as a risk.
• Insufficient Income or Employment History - Stability Matters. Gaps in employment or an income that does not align with loan requirement can cause issues.
• Too Many Recent Credit ApplicationsMultiple credit inquiries in a short time can signal financing instability.
• Low Appraisal Value - If the home's appraisal comes in lower than expected, it can impact loan approval.
Big Valley Mortgage is here to help you find the right path to homeownership. Reach out today and let's explore your options!
We are proud to present this Brentwood
9050 Deer Valley Rd.
featuring 6,595 upscale living. This estate is perfect for a family retreat, due to it's separate living quarters. The property sits on 5 rolling acres with producing olive trees and includes, large building, oversized garage and pool house! The backyard is fabulous and was featured and created by Pond Masters.
Twilight Open House on Tuesday, August 19 from 6:30 pm to 830 pm.
Checking all the boxes in must have items!
Welcome to 430 Ellisa Lane Brentwood
Amazing single story custom home, CHECK, featuring things like high ceilings, crown molding, lots of windows, CHECK, all bedrooms are ensuites, coffee bar, wrap around backyard covered patio, CHECK, unobstructed views of Mt. Diablo, ADU, stamped concrete driveway, CHECK, CHECK, CHECK.
Primary suite downstairs, Pulte's favorite model Just Listed! Over 3,000, soaring ceilings, court location, 4 bedrooms plus loft! Priced right at $899K
Looking for 2 spaces for the price of 1?
Check out 609 Lynn Ave Antioch. Cute as a button with water and city light views you will fall in love with. Priced to sell at $589K
ALILOUPOUR REAL ESTATE TEAM
Amir Aliloupour Realtor®, GRI (925) 876-0255
aliloupour@yahoo.com www.RealEstateGuyz.com
Cherry Wade Realtor® DRE#01737491 (925) 899-1311
Cherry@CherryWade.com
October 1, 2024
I would highly recommend the Real Estate Guide for any local real estate professional! It has been great exposure for my business. Even in the digital age, magazine advertizing has not gone out of style. A magazine left in an office will be browsed by countless people for many months, and your ad can be seen by many of them.
Please contact Steve Margolis at (925) 679-7488
Desirable Glenbrook SOLD in 3 Days!
Tucked away at the end of a peaceful court in desirable Greenbrook, this well-loved home is ready for its next chapter after 47 wonderful years. Backing up to the scenic Iron Horse Trail, the setting offers a lovely sense of privacy and connection to nature. Inside you'll find 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths across 2,251 square feet, set on a generous 9,700 square foot lot. The nearby Greenbrook community pool and amenities add to the appeal, along with easy access to shopping, dining and freeway--making daily life convenient and enjoyable. Greenbrook Elementary School about a quarter mile down the Iron Horse Trail in the sought after school district. If you're looking for a welcoming place to call home in a cherished neighborhood, this could be the perfect fit.
Only $1,749,888 for Danville's Greenbrook
BYRON
Looking for a nice home for your family! Then look no further! It has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a large open living room with lots of windows! Some improvements have been made but with just a little more TLC this house could become your forever home!! Pictures on MLS are virtual staged. Call for more details!
SUMMER EVENING OPEN HOUSE
Come home and enjoy this newly upgraded and renovated home with modern finishes in Castro Valley. Great location off Cull Canyon Road. Near Cull Canyon Park, Lake Chabot Regional Park and close to the Castro Valley Market Place. This home has been completely transformed from a modest structure into a fully modernized, stylish, and functional 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence. Every system and surface has been upgraded. The kitchen has custom cabinetry and beautiful granite countertops with sleek, energy-efficient, and modern stainless steel appliances. There is a detached barn with new concrete floor and fresh exterior paint. Experience privacy, space, all while being conveniently close to top-rated schools, parks, shopping, and dining.
610 Central Park Pl, Brentwood, CA 94513
Brentwood • $785,000
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering 2, 310 square feet of comfortable, single-story living. Situated on a wide, quiet street in a desirable gated 55+ community. Inside, the thoughtfully designed floor plan provides ideal separation of space. On one end of the home, youll find the spacious primary suite with a private full bath and walk in closet. A additional bedroom home office, or hobbies, and a separate half baths for guests. On the opposite side, two more bedrooms share a Jack and Jill full bathroom with double sinks, offering privacy and practicality. Enjoy beautiful bamboo flooring and updated counters throughout, along with bright, open living areas perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. Step outside and take advantage of the community’s wonderful amenities, including a clubhouse, tennis courts, and a sparkling pool. You’ll also love the close proximity to shopping centers, parks, and peaceful walking trails. With a full-sized 3-car garage and a low-maintenance lifestyle in a welcoming neighborhood, this home checks all the boxes.
Pleasant Hill • $679,000
Located in a Park Like setting with mature trees and walking trails close by. Modern kitchen with lots of nice amenities in the kitchen design. For the entertainer, there is a modern wet bar in dining area opening to a beautiful vaulted ceiling living space. Laundry closet is downstairs opening to the 2-car garage. Home is tech savvy too, controlled by the available laptop. Lots of natural light and nice window coverings thru-out. Guest room has a Murphy bed set-up with built-in desk. Lots of additional nuances make this an ideal home for commuters with freeway access within blocks and walking distance to downtown Pleasant Hill, shopping, movie theatre and restaurants. Seller is motivated!!!
ALILOUPOUR REAL ESTATE TEAM
Adding Value to Your Home:
Very few people are aware of the added value an ADU can bring to their property. As an example the appraisal can be as high as 1 to 3 times the cost of the ADU and that value is added to the value of the existing home. Another reason is the high rental income in California. In fact, the number one reason people are building ADU’s is to live in the ADU and rent out their main home.
Benefits of Owning an ADU
Lets talk about the benefits of owning an ADU and all the tax credits and Grants.
• Income potential
• Privacy for office, music, artist, Inlaws, college students
• Adding value to your home creating equity
Best Ways to Use ADUs
There are quite a few ways an ADU can be used as they can be Non-Living Space ADUs such as:
• A gym/yoga place
• A home office
• An art studio/music studio
• A pool house
• Other use of ADU is to be a Guest House, Lodging Caretakers, Multi-Generational Housing Opportunity, Rental ADUs, and many more!
Lot Splits Can Bring Value and Income to Your Property:
Besides rental income and increased property value Senate Bill 9 allows for lot splits where you can now have up to 4 units after the Lot split. We are expert developers and can advise you correctly if this is proper for you and your financial goals. Give us a call and we will be glad to assist you.
Barbara
Augustus Asuncion DRE#01713767 925-433-1880 English/Spanish
Vincent Leon DRE#002134011 925-849-0446 English/Spanish
Carla Libert DRE#02012990 510-912-1992
Tara
DRE#02233260 925-984-6838
DRE#02093870 209-482-7017
Kevin Razineja DRE#02242858 925-864-8550 English/Spanish Jeffrey Santos DRE#02235502 925-286-5657
Juan Mendoza Cruz DRE#02220402 415-967-8233 English/Spanish
BRIDGE LOANS
No appraisal required, close in 5 days
L oan amounts from $200K to $10M
Eligible for residential and commercial
No credit score requirement
Foreign Nationals investors Welcome
Only 30% down payment required
RENOVATION OR ADU LOANS
Purchase or refinance 100% rehab funds
L ow interest rates, minimal lender fees
No income or asset verification
Funding in as fast as 7–10 days
Applicable to residential and commercial
CONSTRUCTION LOANS
Build from ground-up or rebuild
L oan amounts from $300K to $10M
25% down payment
No experience needed — LLC required
Foreign nationals investors welcome
Fast draw process, flexible underwriting
Eligible for residential and commercial
CCRIM Invites You to visit our website: www.CCRIMToday.com
SELLERS:
List your home with a CCRIM agent who will have your home on our Caravan Tour & Tuesday Broker Open.
BUYERS: Ask your agent to attend the CCRIM meeting to learn about "Coming Soons"
AGENTS & AFFILIATES : Attend CCRIM every Tuesday Doors open at 8:00 am St. Stephen Catholic Church 1101 Keaveny Court Walnut Creek, CA One of the LARGEST networking groups in Contra Costa
Shaping the Future of Real Estate in Contra Costa
At Contra Costa Real Estate In Motion, we network with leading professional of real estate to ensure consistent knowledge of current market listings and market conditions. We also spread awareness about the impact that the real estate and its affiliated industries have on the development of the local communities.
Last but not least our members consistently strive to give back to the community by hosting several charitable events. "hands-on" projects and other activities.
Time to Sell? Then Stage For Maximum Return
By Patrick McCarran ~ Real Estate Broker
The doom and gloom of the great meltdown has not materialized. While current economic conditions are certainly a little tenuous, rates have mostly stabilized and demand is still strong for homes.
No one knows what lies in the future for every expert that predict a recession there is another one promoting a real estate boom. California companies are overall in good shape and the banking collapse seems to have been avoided.
Inventory overall continues to remain at historic lows. Buyers are still looking. I think the primary difference today is the Buyer are adjusting and do not seem to have a sense of urgency to rush making an offer. Buyers are waiting to find the right home and one that is move in ready.
If you have a plan to move and are considering selling then there is no time like the present. So if you are ready then time to get home ready with a little basic staging and maintenance.
Don’t be too personal: Your home should convey a neutral canvas that will appeal to the majority of buyers. Staging is all about de-personalizing the space, and creating more of a look that will appeal to most everyone. This is not the time to bring in your
unique style and create a look that may appeal to just you. Use neutral colors: When painting choose nice neutral and warm beige tones, This will help bring out the warmth of any wood or laminate floors. You’ll be amazed at the transformation a few coats of fresh paint will make on your home. Gray is on the way out in my opinion.
Take advantage of natural light: People love natural light, so don’t block any light with heavy curtains or furniture. Accentuate any attractive views. Anything dated in a home is a turn-off to a potential buyer and window treatments are one of them. Don’t be afraid to take down the curtains and just use the blinds or just leave the valances. A trick I use is to aim the blinds up to allow the light in and reflect off the ceiling.
Less is definitely more: Scale down your furniture to be in balance with the scale of the room. Remember that the purpose of furniture when selling a home is to define the purpose of the room and to show what will fit where. Remove decorative items from shelves and tables I generally use the rule of one per shelf or table top.
Take a look outside: People do care about the outside space just as much as the inside, so add flowers, make sure the lawn is
mowed and tidy. Bring in some bark or rocks to cover the bare earth and five the yard a finished look.
Spruce up ALL rooms: People are quick to stage living rooms and kitchens and but don’t forget to spruce up the bedrooms, flex space and closets as well.
Don’t forget fixtures: When staging a home, it’s important to ensure all lights are burning with fresh bulbs, and that all fixtures are working. It may be a good investment to update the light fixture form the original brass and glass and the same go for the faucets. A nice modern kitchen faucet make a significant difference in the buyer impression of the overall kitchen.
Remember, staging a home means showcasing the property’s many features, not concealing its flaws. Make sure your house is in good condition and use staging to cast the home in the best light.
Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker DRE# 01325072.
He can be contact by phone or text at (925) 899-5536, pmccarran@yahoo.com or www.CallPatrick.com.
An independently owned and operated office. In association with Realty One Group Elite DRE# 0193160.
Equal Housing Opportunity.
REALTORS
01478000 925-818-1970
02226206 925-784-9060
01325072
01725259 925-219-5550
Hablo Español
•
s
Home Search By Your Criteria
Most homes in this magazine are online. View them in color and search by town, price, bedroom & bath.
Home Search Magazine Style
zine format, the pages flip electronically.
Faris Sanchez-Tischler VICE PRESIDENT OF ORTC | BRANCH MANAGER
ESCROW OFFICER
· In the title industry since 2003, at Old Republic Title since 2008
· Branch Manager + Escrow Officer for Old Republic Title’s Brentwood office
· Top Escrow Officer in Contra Costa County and the Company’s Western region since 2010
· Successfully closed a variety of residential, commercial, new home build and agricultural transactions
· Loves applying her industry knowledge and multitasking skills to ensure clients experience a smooth and stress-free closing process
· Passionate about supporting her fellow escrow staff and encouraging their growth and success
· The most rewarding part of her job is helping clients reach the pride and satisfaction of achieving the American Dream
· Raised in East Bay, Faris is a long-time resident of Livermore, where she lives with her husband Brian, their two children and dogs, Luna and Lola. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, camping, attending baseball games and her kids’ sporting events, going to the beach and spending time with family
