TWO GREAT AGENTS + TWO DIFFERENT COMPANIES = UNSURPASSED RESULTS!
Have 600+ successful buyer transactions in combined careers (not counting listing sales)
18-month BUYER
SATISFACTION
GUARANTEE! Will resell the house FOR FREE if the buyer no longer loves it
GUARANTEES negotiating at least 5K off the price of the house or will credit the buyer $1000.
Vigorously pursue off-market inventory not found on Zillow or Redfin, including NEW CONSTRUCTION, expired listings, probate sales, & “Coming Soon” listings
Have better than 80% success rate in multiple offer situations when competing buyers’ offers have similar price & terms
GUARANTEE : Should their client ever lose to another offer with similar price and terms, they WILL PAY $ to their client!
Know 7 ways to often beat out all-cash buyers without offering a higher price
Have decades of experience helping buyers buy single family homes, townhomes, condos, foreclosures (REOs), short sales, & new construction
Steve & Courtney Agent X
Rea l GUIDE E state
Classic, Stunning Bungalow
2609 68TH AVE, OAKLAND, CA 94605
2 BED / 1 BATH / 824 SQFT. / $475,000
A classic, stunning bungalow features 2 beds and 1 bath with an attached garage. As you enter, the home welcomes you with a warm, airy ambiance accentuated by natural lighting. The living room, a cozy retreat, features large windows- perfect for relaxed evenings. The heart of this home, the kitchen, is a culinary delight boasting sleek white cabinetry, Quartz counters, a practical breakfast bar with bar-top seating, tiled backsplash, stainless appliances and an open layout that seamlessly connects to the main living area. A spacious backyard to let your imagination run wild- al fresco dining, urban gardening or entertaining awaits! Enjoy the tranquility of nearby Joaquin Miller Park, offering ample greenspace for outdoor activities and relaxation. For those who travel frequently, Oakland Airport is a mere 10-minute drive, adding an extra layer of accessibility to this already wellconnected location.
Charming Home with Modern Upgrades
1292 61ST AVENUE, OAKLAND, CA 94621
2 BED / 1 BATH / 920 SQFT. / $389,000
Welcome home to this charming space! Open living & dining areas flow into a well-appointed kitchen with ample storage and granite counters. Remodeled bathroom features a full-sized shower. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout create a warm ambiance. Newer windows, paint, and fixtures enhance the sunfilled atmosphere. Converted garage and basement offer additional income or family space. Generous living area boasts natural light and cozy fireplace. Multi-generational home potential. Easy access to transit, schools, dining, and highways. Eligible for Community Lending Program Discounts!
PATRICK McCARRAN
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!!!
Who Are We
The Delta Association of REALTORS® (D.A.R.) is a non-profit organization that serves more than 900 REALTOR® and Affiliate members. D.A.R. is affiliated with the California Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®, and works to provide our members with the tools they need to remain successful.
Our Mission Statement
Delta Association of REALTORS® promotes professionalism, advocacy, community, and success of its members.
We serve the Delta community in East Contra Costa County, which consists of Antioch, Bay Point, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen, Oakley, and Pittsburg. In 2024, we celebrated 75 years of service. In addition to providing resources that enhance the ethics and professionalism of our members, we also contribute to our community in various ways through our 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Delta REALTORS Community Service Foundation.
The DRCSF Scholarship Program awards several scholarships for East County high school seniors in seeking financial assistance to pursue their education in vocational/trade schools, community colleges, or 4 year universities. This includes traditional and alternative high schools.
It is the goal of the Delta REALTOR® Community Service Foundation that 100% of funds raised or donated go to the important programs for which it is intended. Fundraising efforts include social and networking events as the Delta Harvest Run, Bowling Tournament and Raffle Baskets. Monetary and food donations for local programs like Bay Area Community Service, St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Brentwood Regional Community Chest, Golden Hills, and Antioch Senior Center. Donations are also given to the Elderly Wish Foundation and granting "wish lists" for teen students in local group homes.
On October 2023, we launched the Delta Housing Affordability Fund. A grant program for First-Time Homebuyers purchasing Single Family Homes in Contra Costa and San Joaquin counties. Qualifying homebuyers may receive up to $5,000 towards their closing costs when working with one of our approved Mortgage Loan Officers. Our mission is to reduce the financial burden of purchasing a home and bridge the affordability gap for those who may not otherwise qualify.
Our members advocate for protecting homeownership rights and opening more paths to affordable housing. The Local Government Relations and Political Affairs Committee monitors local city and county actions that affect the real estate business, attempt to establish lines of communication with elected officials, and makes recommendations for campaign support. They also assist in educating the membership on the importance of local, state, and national political involvement.
When choosing a REALTOR, it is crucial to work with a professional familiar with local ordinances, local market activity, and active in your local community. Access our directory of over 900 REALTORS and Affiliate Members when you are ready to make one of the most important investments of your life.
Listedat$199,000
SITTING RIGHT OUTSIDE OF LIME RIDGE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE IS 69 TERRACE DRIVE
DRE#02231550 925-270-7765
Augustus Asuncion DRE#01713767 925-433-1880
Shelda
DRE#02012990 925-305-9645
Sheena Sunga DRE#02180962 415-583-0181 Vincent
925-864-8550
Carla
DRE#02235502 925-286-5657
4 bedroom/2 bath single story with pool/hot tub. Great view of Mt. Diablo. Mid $1,300,000’s.
HACIENDA MMHP-PLEASANTON
RANCHO BENICIA MHP-BENICIA 3 bedrooms/2 bath needs some updating. $148,000.
2 bedroom/2 bath home, walk in tub, bonus room. $201,000. RANCHO DIABLO MHP-PACHECO 2 bedroom/2 bath cosmetic fixer. $150,000.
This updated 4 BR 2.5 BA 1856 SF home features a bright and open floor plan with living areas on the first floor and spacious bedrooms upstairs. Enjoy elegant formal living and dining rooms with a cozy fireplace, a family room, and an updated eat-in kitchen with new appliances, quartz countertops, and stylish new cabinet hardware. New vinyl flooring in the main living areas and plush carpeting upstairs complete the home. Don’t miss your chance to make this beautiful property yours! $849,000 This 4 BR 2 BA 1773 SF home offers abundant natural light, high ceilings, and a cozy fireplace in the formal living and dining rooms. The chef’s kitchen features white cabinets, quartz counters, and newer stainless-steel appliances. The family room overlooks a peaceful backyard with no rear neighbors. Luxury vinyl flooring in living areas, warm carpeting in bedrooms, Google Nest and ADT ready. Situated near Laurel Creek Elementary and Community Park. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity! $625,000
Relax in your tranquil yard. HOA dues are $183/month includes playground, common areas, grounds & street maintenance. Great Commute Location with Minutes to Downtown Martinez, Shopping, Hiking Trails, Freeways, BART & Schools. $724,888 122 HIGH STREET, PACHECO
829 LITTLE VALLEY ROAD, MARTINEZ Welcome Home to this like-new beauty! 3 Bedrooms & 2.5 Bathrooms with high ceilings carried throughout built in 2008. Spacious great room with Cozy Fireplace Open to the Kitchen & Dining
$447,000
2345 POMONA VE, MARTINEZ
Charming 2 Bedroom & 1 Bathroom Gem with a Spacious Yard! Step inside to find a warm and inviting living space featuring
$569,900
490 NORTH CIVIC DR #214, WALNUT CREEK Updated 2nd Floor END UNIT just minutes from Downtown Walnut Creek. This light filled Condo boasts 2 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms, a beautifully Updated Kitchen with Shaker Cabinets, Quartz Countertops & Stainless Steel Appliances. Large Family Room with Bar area perfect for entertaining. Spacious Primary Suite with Walk in Closet. Plenty of Storage throughout. Relax on the
4100 ALHAMBRA WAY, MARTINEZ
4166 Sq.Ft. Beauty just around the corner from fast water. South facing views of Lido bay at its best. 110ft waterfront with 3 finger dock and 2 canopies and hydro-hoist. Large deck with a screen room storage area, 2 gas ports for BBQ and 1 gas port for firepit, 5 gas tiki torches , a fantastic tree for shade and all the outdoor space to host wonderful gatherings! 2 Primary suites and 3 additional guest rooms with 4½ baths. The home was rebuilt in 2006 to include fully distributed crestron av system recently updated to 4k tvs' and updated audio which will be included in sale. Wine storage room with separate cooling unit, a sports bar and game room loft, an office with balcony decking, as well as 2 additional balconies. Primary bathrooms include toto washlet with heated seats and one primary bath includes a steam shower. The kitchen has Monogram appliances and Scotsman 50 lb. Ice maker. Large pantry with work room and laundry with direct access to large 3 car garage with double tandem design and workbench. Large driveway fits many cars and low maintenance yard with wonderful garden area.
│ 5½ BATHS │ 5654 SQ FT │ $5,288,000 Welcome to an amazing mix of Privacy, Tranquility and Seclusion nestled in the prestigious Lafayette Hills. This remarkable estate welcomes you through a private secured gate & winding driveway, revealing breathtaking vistas of the Lamorinda Valley, extending to the Lafayette Reservoir. Spanning 11 acres of hillside perfection, this spacious retreat features meticulously designed terraces & lush gardens, culminating in a picturesque lookout at the pinnacle of the property. The residence boasts 7bds/6baths, adorned with hand-rubbed Venetian plaster that creates a warm, inviting ambiance while showcasing spectacular panoramic views. The expansive window walls and generous patio and deck areas offer an unparalleled indoor/outdoor entertainment experience, ideal for hosting discerning guests. The breathtaking views extend seamlessly from the main residence to the luxurious guest suite, ensuring that your visitors bask in the same unparalleled beauty. Whether for short visits or longer stays, the captivating surroundings create an inviting atmosphere that highlights the essence of refined living.
Nostalgic 1955 Cottage with a Huge Lot and Tons of Space! This Three Bedroom, Two Bath Updated Home has a Lovely Fenced Courtyard in the front and Fresh paint inside and out. The Large Living Room is lined with Dual Pane Windows and includes a cozy Fireplace and Built in. The Massive Eat-In Kitchen has been updated with Stainless Steel Appliances, Lots of Cabinets and also has a Fireplace! The Primary is Large with a Slider leading to the Park-Like Back Yard. The Living Room and Bedrooms have New Carpet. New Fans and fixtures have also been added. Check out that Backyard which has RV/Boat access with room for multiple vehicles and still leaves room for the Shed, Garden and Play Space!
*NEW PRICE* *NEW PHOTOS* *ALL INSPECTIONS COMPLETED/ CLEARED* Step back in time with this Beautiful Preserved West Oakland Craftsman and call it HOME! This 2-bed, 1-bath fully upgraded, upgraded kitchen with new range, new laminated wood flooring throughout the house, double pane windows, insulated basement, fresh paint inside & out! Backyard has space for a beautiful garden, outdoor living or possible expansion. New wood fence surrounds this large backyard, perfect for outdoor entertainment! Whether you're an Investor or looking to live in your Dream Home, the opportunities here are limitless! Located near shopping, dining, and easy freeway access.
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.
EAST BAY FAMILY MORTGAGE ADVISOR
1. CalHFA's My Home Purchase Assistance Program Is Here!
• No Down Payment
• NO CREDIT REQUIREMENT!
• Combine with the CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP) for closing cost & credits!
2. Renovation Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
• Need funds for renovations but short on equity? Our HELOC lets you borrow up to 125% of your home's value
• Enjoy the flexibility to draw what you need, when you need it - no need to refinance your first mortgage!
3. Super Jumbo Loans - Up to $10M!
• Self-employed? No tax returns needed! We offer luxury financing with flexible terms and fast approvals for high-net-worth borrowers.
REALTOR® DRE License - 01422400
Direct: (925)628-7764
E-mail: ogorchock@comcast.net
Over $10,000 was raised at this years Holiday Party for local CHARITIES
Congratulations to our Realtor & Affiliate of the Year Lauren McLane &
NEWYEARANDTIMEFORACHANGE!
By Patrick McCarran ~ Real Estate Broker
Are you tired of high rents and the instability of not having your own home? If you are ready to stop renting and buy a home of your own then you may consider adding boosting credit score to your New Year’s resolutions. Although no one except the credit reporting agencies know exactly how the algorithm works these general tips are commonly acknowledged to help increase your credit score
1. Always pay on time This sounds like a no brainer but it isn’t. No lender likes to lend money to an individual who has a track record of missing their payments. This indicates a lack of discipline and poor financial management, and it translates to a lower score. On-time payments improve your credit score tremendously. It carries almost a 40 percent weight on your score. If you find it hard to keep track or forget to mail the payments try and e-pay option at your bank. Set up the minimum payment to go out preferably just before the due date and choose the recurring option so it pays every month. Just remember to check your statements in case the minimum payment changes. Because you are setting this up at your bank you can change it or cancel anytime with the click of a mouse.
2. Keep your credit owed within limits Keep your credit card balances within 40% of the allowed limit. If you have $5,000 as your limit, then keep your balance amount to $2,000. This applies even if you pay it off each month. The total balance at any time must stay under 40% to show that you are not pushing your limits, it is like the old saying they only give you money if you don’t need it. Also it is good practice not to have your total unsecured credit balance over 50 percent of your annual salary.
3. Use your cards but don’t abuse your cards Sound simple but often it isn’t. It is important to use your cards consistently however as noted previously you should keep the balances low. A good practice is to
set up a recurring charge on you card such as a phone bill and set up an automatic payment to pay it off each month then put the card up. This keeps the cards from being dormant and shows that you can have credit and be in control.
4. Use two credit cards if you are a habitual credit card user This is good and bad advice at the same time. FICO does not consider spending money on two credit cards as one. But if you have two credit cards, you can keep your usage percentage in control.
For example, if you have a credit card with a limit of $2,000, and you charge $1,500 on it, you’ve used 75 percent of your credit limit.
Now if you split your amount into two, and spend $750 each, then the percentage of usage will be around 37 percent. So it helps you in the eyes of FICO. Now, don’t go on a credit card shopping spree.
5. Maintain a good mix of good and bad loans — AKA, a healthy credit mix Home loans and business loans are considered good loans. Personal loans and private label credit cards are considered bad loans. This is why investing in a home loan, if you are a spendthrift is a better decision. You will have a good credit mix and build an asset.
6. Pay high-interest loans and small loans first It is a prudent decision to pay your home loans over longer periods. Pay off your personal loans, credit cards and private loans first, as they tend to have a higher interest (typically 15 percent to 36 percent) with no asset creation. Home loans, on the other hand, are just 4 percent to 5 percent, but they build an asset. This is one of the underutilized logical tips to improve credit score. Pick a loan and set a goal and then focus on paying that one off (but don’t buy something to celebrate).
7. Close your unwanted savings accounts Many people tend to abandon their savings accounts without closing them. If you have less than your Minimum Average Balance (MAB), it will start to affect your credit
score. Also, when you finish paying a loan off, it’s imperative to get the loan closure certificate.
8. Check your credit reports regularly You can obtain them from the official FICO site for free. Just go online and check your credit score at least once in a year, so that you can catch any mistakes and get it corrected. There have been cases when banks report you to FICO by mistake. Keep in mind that free reports are a consumer product and the credit score will vary depending on the type of credit you are applying for.
9. Monitor your co-signed joint accounts properly In instances of co-signing a loan or maintaining a joint credit account, even if they are family. You need to monitor the statements closely to make sure everything is in order. There is no use complaining if you chose the wrong joint holder who was careless and you don’t catch it.
10. Negotiate if you cannot pay on time This is also one of best tips to improve credit score. People often know that they would not be able to pay their bills in advance. Regardless, they do not take any action.
If you know you will not be able to pay on time, negotiate with your bank. Banks may be willing to extend your loan period and reduce the EMI and the FICO will see you are proactive.
So these are some of the tips to keep your credit score in check and get a better home loan with less stress. Feel free to contact me with any other questions or for more information.
Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker DRE# 01325072. He can be contacted by phone or text at (925) 8995536, 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.
MELISSA DELTORO DRE # 01893360 510-258-3550
CYNTHIA MACDERMOTT DRE # 01416959 209-914-3360
KEVIN VIERRA
DRE # 01878277 925-595-1321
CATHIE MARPLES DRE # 00639971 925-699-6363
LYNELL FULLER DRE # 01477721 510-367-5935
EVAILO GEORGIEFF DRE # 01711379 925-848-1105
MISTI TRAYLOR DRE # 02236348 209-483-0179
TOD KELLOG DRE # 01350007 925-513-5794
Showcasing Our Members
LAURA AGDANOWSKI DRE # 01902666 925-759-1592
MICHELE DOTSON DRE # 02114842 925-727-2641
CECILY TIPPERY DRE # 01095391 925-640-6698
JODY DREWRY DRE # 01478000 925-818-1970
SYDNEY PARIS DRE # 02109493 925-506-1519
LEIA HARTJE DRE # 01412955 925-550-2697
CHRISTINE CANALES DRE # 02054139 408-420-9656
NANCY GONZALES DRE # 01311883 925-200-3585
SUZANNE DELGADO DRE # 01324033 925-642-3535
MICHELLE JOGOPULOS DRE # 01339030 925-381-5242
JUDY BITTNER DRE # 00455238 925-634-4611
LAURA FRANKE DRE # 01419726 925-550-5283
DARNELLA AULANI DRE # 01117484 925-777-1770
TONIA NIELSEN DRE # 925-757-8283
MONICA NEILSON DRE # 02019968 510-415-2399
GINAMARIE OLSON DRE # 02226206 925-784-9060
TRACY NELSON DRE # 01841691 925-872-0400
MARIA VANMASTRIGT DRE # 02101143 925-330-9672
LAURIE WEXNER DRE # 01163404 925-383-8732
ROBINSON DRE # 02019968 925-776-2740
MONIQUE FUENTES DRE # 01505156 925-435-9863
KATHERINE PRINZIVALLI DRE # 01263300 925-457-0510
LISA HULTZ DRE # 01242163 925-642-3290
DE-DE HAYS DRE # 01414161 925-281-4597
WENDY MOORE DRE # 01408930 925-570-5187
EDUVI JEWELL DRE # 01510542 925-759-2067
RUPI BAWA DRE # 02103749
925-6056-6092
CAROL GWIN DRE # 01431068 925-625-5788
PARWIN FAZLIN DRE # 01725259 925-219-5550
PATRICK MCCARRAN DRE # 01325072 925-899-5536
Current and potential customers can explore properties from any device, at their convenience, 24/7. Enjoy a fully interactive experience, similar to Google Street View, that lets you navigate every room as if you're actually there.
Hablo Español
A NEW CHALLENGE IN SELLING A HOME
The difficulties in selling a home are enough in a normal situation. A new problem may emerge for homeowners wanting to sell but cannot, due to something that has not been that much of a problem in recent months.
Everyone knows about the problems that have come due to the people who live and own a property in the Los Angeles area. Homes can be replaced much of the time. The owners in the fire storm areas have a much more difficult time in rebuilding because of what follows. Many policies are capped to a level that is below the replacement cost. Some have insufficient replacement coverage. Some have no insurance at all.
Your question may be, “How does this impact me? I am not in a fire zone. I am not impacted by this problem.”
Insurance providers have been very sensitive to risks in CA to the point that a few providers no longer insure homes in neighborhoods that they deem to be at risk of fire. Costs of replacement continue to increase every year, and many homes might be under insured. Some companies are not taking on any new policies at all.
This may pop up on a homes sale transaction when the Buyer cannot find insurance or if it is found, the cost makes the property monthly cost unaffordable. Normally, as the homebuyer goes through the escrow period, obtaining all the financial and regulatory tasks, the lack of insurance can have a contract failure. If the Seller has found their new property, that deal may also fail since they cannot close on their existing home.
One thing that the Seller on a property may choose to do is to get an assurance that their home can be sold in today’s
market. We often run into an ugly surprise when insurers that we are familiar with tell us that getting insurance may be difficult or prohibitively expensive. Once the Seller knows there are companies that will insure the property, the Buyer then can search their options prior to reaching a contract agreement.
Of course, the Seller may not want to do this bit of work to find the facts about the home, but that choice adds some risks to getting successful deal and be able to go on to the new home they want.
Just one more item to consider. The California Fair Plan, which is the insurer of last resort, has always been available for otherwise properties with the higher price attendant, and may not have the funds in place with all of the poor results in fire for the past few years. If you want to get some assistance , please give me a call at 512-772-6293 or send a note to caseteamre@gmail.com. I will be glad to help.
John Case is a Broker Associate with Corcoran Icon Properties (CA) & Stanberry Realtors (TX) He has dealt with all aspects of Real Estate during his career and can answer any question that you may have regarding your home.
CalDRE Lic:00622378
He is also the editor of the East Contra County Real Estate Economic Report. He works with his wife Diana in Brentwood. They can be reached at 925-382-9771 or by email at johnacase@stanberry.com
• GENERAL PEST CONTROL
Free General Pest Inspections, Include Ants, Spiders, Roaches, Bees, Wasps, Yellow Jacket, Hornets & More!
• ECO FRIENDLY SERVICES
We provide environmentally friendly and sustainable pest control options for your home, family and pets.
• RODENT CONTROL
Receive a FREE rodent inspection to determine the best treatment options for you.
• TERMITE SERVICES
Inspections, treatment & repairs.
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We take pride in keeping businesses in our community safe with expertise treating restaurants, office spaces, commercial developments, and more!
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