Village Life, Wednesday, December 16, 2020

IN EL DORADO HILLS

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Make Eskaton Your

DECEMBER 16, 2020

See page A.

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Photo by Mustafa Amjal

ORHS junior Teagan Brown sets the school’s women’s basketball record with 24 three-pointers made in 2 minutes.

Trojans log new records Sel Richard Staff writer

Photos courtesy of Jen Soderstrom

Vintage Grace in El Dorado Hills has embraced the Christmas spirit, showcasing beautiful decorations at the church along El Dorado Hills Boulevard. COVID-19 can’t ruin one family tradition — taking a drive through the community to admire the lights and creativity during this holiday season.

Enterprising students are refusing to let COVID-19 keep them down. Oak Ridge High School junior Luke Stewart is one athlete who came up with a creative solution to keep sports alive, in spite of the virus’ best efforts.

Stewart recently spearheaded the inaugural Trojans Breaking Records event where eight Oak Ridge athletes competed to break school records, combining the event with a fundraising effort.

“I wanted to do something to make a positive differ■

See RECORDS, page A4

Shutdown ... but not out Village Life staff El Dorado County was put under the state’s strictest shutdown order beginning Dec. 10 at 11:59 p.m. due to the greater Sacramento region, of which the county is a part, reaching the point where the number of ICU units fell below 15% available capacity.

New restrictions require all restaurants to close outdoor dining; take-out is allowed. All barbershops, hair salons and nail salons have shut down. Retail outlets are required to limit customers to 20% capacity and residents have been asked to remain at home except to go to essential jobs or to do basic chores. Public gatherings are prohibited.

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See SHUTDOWN, page A4

INSIDE NEWS VOL. 27

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ISSUE NO. 51

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SERENE SETTING IN THE COUNTRY

EDH LIBRARY NEEDS OUR HELP

This 5-acre estate offers luxury living in a private setting. The two-story home has a lot to offer, especially to those who love to entertain.

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VILLAGE HOMES, B1

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The Friends of the El Dorado Hills Library have kicked fundraising efforts into high gear to get more books on the shelves.

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INSIDE, A4

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WHAT’S HAPPENING Canceled Santa photos at the California Welcome Center in El Dorado Hills have been canceled.

Carriage rides in El Dorado Hills Town Center have been canceled.

Elf hunt Now: Children are invited to pick up a passport at any participating El Dorado Hills Town Center business and then head out to find hidden elves in the stores, receiving a sticker for each elf found. Return filled passports to Face in a Book by Dec. 24 and get entered to win a $250 Town Center gift card.

Winner is chosen on Monday, Dec. 28.

Santa Run Dec. 17 & 18: The El Dorado Hills Fire Department Santa Run comes to town, 7-9 p.m.

This year’s modified event features drivethru festivities at Rolling Hills Christian Church, 800 White Rock Road in El Dorado Hills. Join the fun and don’t forget Toys for Tots donations and food donations. For more information visit facebook.com/EDHFIRE.

Blood drive Dec. 28: Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, 1021 Harvard Way, El Dorado Hills.

The Bloodmobile will be in the parking lot near the baseball fields, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call (877) 258-4825.

DECEMBER 16, 2020

PEOPLE TALK

Photos and question by Sel Richard

What holiday tradition will you miss this year?

Megan Bond

Trinity Foster

Drake Hines

Kate Bond

Preston Hines

El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills

“We usually go back East. I’ll miss seeing my family in New Jersey and my grandfather who has COVID.”

“Being with family.

We usually have food together and talk about stuff. ”

“We won’t be able to have a family dinner together. We won’t see my dad pop the cider.”

“My grandparents won’t be able to watch us open our presents and stockings this year.”

“Sometimes we have everybody at our house but this year we won’t be able to open presents together. ”

CRIME WATCH

The following information was taken from El Dorado County sheriff’s reports:

Nov. 29 11:46 a.m. A burglary was reported on Wilson Boulevard.

5:17 p.m. Grand theft was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

Nov. 30 11:18 a.m. An attempted residential burglary was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

12:41 p.m. Theft from a vehicle was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

1:43 p.m. A burglary was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

1:46 p.m. Theft from a vehicle was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

6:53 p.m. Theft from a vehicle was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

Dec. 3

Dec. 1 1:39 a.m. An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of DUI on White Rock Road.

2:25 p.m. A catalytic converter was reported stolen from a vehicle in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

Dec. 2 7:35 a.m. Theft from a vehicle was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

9:30 a.m. Theft from a vehicle was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

Dec. 4 1:40 p.m. Grand theft was reported in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

6:58 p.m. Deputies arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of making threats in El Dorado Hills (street not listed).

10:24 p.m. Deputies arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of battery with serious bodily injury after an altercation on Francisco Drive.

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A3 DECEMBER 16, 2020

CRIB NOTES by Julie Samrick

‘Hillbilly’ holds lessons for youth

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ometimes reality is more interesting than fiction, as shown in the newly released film “Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis.” Based on the 2016 memoir by author J.D. Vance, the story chronicles Vance’s coming of age in Middletown, Ohio, struggling against abuse, poverty and a drug-addicted mother.

We’ve seen the same conflict in stories before — a main character against society — but never in this setting.

At every turn Vance is failed by the very government institutions that are supposed to be safeguards, from education and healthcare to Child Protective Services.

Though coarse, the hillbilly culture to which Vance belongs is what he and his community can depend on, stepping up for one another, like how they honor their dead.

It is not until Vance’s grandmother begs to get a second, free boxed dinner from a Meals on Wheels delivery driver, with no luck, that Vance realizes the only way he’s going to better his life is by being his own hero.

Much like what Dorothy realizes in “The Wizard of Oz,” Vance understands his fate rests only in his hands. It’s noteworthy, even movie-worthy, when someone can defy the odds like this because it is so, so difficult.

I enjoyed reading “Hillbilly Elegy” several years ago and, like most books versus movies, I thought the book was better because there is time to go deeper into descriptions. The book builds suspense as it moves in chronological order, whereas the movie begins where the book ends (Vance has made it to a prestigious position), flashing back and forth.

The essence of the characters in both the book and movie are very much the same. Directed by Ron Howard, the film stars Glenn Close, Amy Adams and

Gabriel Basso. Close does a stellar job in the role of Vance’s grandmother and should be nominated for an Oscar for her performance. Close is transformative as a flawed, but complicated, woman — a completely different character than some of her other acting highlights, including her recent appearance in “The Good Wife” and the film in which she first gained worldwide fame, “Fatal Attraction.”

It is too bad “Hillbilly Elegy” is rated R, alienating more young people from seeing it. The movie gets its rating for violence, harsh language, and drug use, which is definitely not shown in a glamorous light.

There are political inferences in the movie, which have critics taking sides about its merit, but I watch films through the lens of whether young people would get something out of them and I definitely think this film should be shared with viewers ages 14 and older, watching with an adult.

Kid-focused grades for “Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis” Rated R 1 hour, 56 minutes Compelling story line: A Strong message: A Leading character is a role model: A Sexual content: B (not much, but some innuendoes) Violence: D (if toned down it could have gotten a PG-13 rating) Suited for the whole family: B (not for children younger than 14) Overall grade: B Julie Samrick is an El Dorado Hills mother and writer.

Connect with her at juliesamrick.com.

Broker Lic#01320399

KILEY’S CORNER by Kevin Kiley

Time for the Legislature to work

E

arlier this month the Legislature reconvened for the 2021-22 session. Yet after a threemonth absence the Legislature only stuck around for a single day to re-install its existing leadership.

It’s no secret that I have taken issue with the Legislature’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis. As grocery clerks, construction workers, childcare providers and millions of other Californians kept doing essential jobs, Legislators refused to do theirs. The Capitol was shut down entirely for months and almost all hearings were canceled. Our institution vanished, deeming itself inessential, and left the people of California bereft of the fundamental protections that representative government is supposed to provide.

In our absence Gov. Gavin Newsom seized legislative power for himself, falsely claiming that a State of Emergency, no matter how long it lasts, transforms California into an autocracy and “centralizes the state’s powers” in his hands. The results were catastrophic. Our economy is doing about the worst in the country, our kids in poor communities are faring worst of all and our public health performance is middling.

If the Legislature had taken its job seriously, if we had defended our Constitution and met the challenges of this year head-on, things could have been very different. We could have built up our hospital capacity, supported our healthcare workers and protected the vulnerable. We could have averted the Employment Development Department train wreck that kept food off of the table for millions of Californians. From the beginning, we could have insisted on data and evidence, focused on what actually makes a difference and avoided the never-ending nightmare of colors,

tiers, curfews and lockdowns.

While we cannot redo 2020, this session provides the Legislature with an opportunity to reassert itself and restore representative government. It’s time to work together to rebuild trust and forge a better path forward for all Californians.

To that end, I have immediately introduced the following legislation: 1. Opening businesses: AB 54 prohibits state agencies from revoking any business license for non-compliance with shutdown orders without first proving the business was actually a cause of widespread transmission.

2. Opening schools: AB 76 assures every California child is given the option of full in-person instruction without further delay.

3. Reforming the Emergency Services Act: AB 69 provides that a State of Emergency expires after 60 days unless renewed by the Legislature, rather than continuing indefinitely.

4. Repealing AB 5: AB 25 repeals the rest of AB 5 now that voters have overwhelmingly rejected the premise of this corrupt law by passing Prop. 22.

5. Fixing the EDD: I have co-authored a package of bills to get payments to those in need more efficiently, protect sensitive applicant information, and eliminate fraud.

While these are most assuredly challenging times, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season. I look forward to working to finally get our state on track in the new year.

Assemblyman Kevin Kiley represents the 6th Assembly District, which includes parts of El Dorado, Placer, and Sacramento counties. You can follow him on Twitter @ KevinKileyCA.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR COVID-19 — What are the answers?

EDITOR: have two thoughts about the impact of COVID-19.

First, let’s take the information given to us by the New York Times article of Aug. 29 titled “Your Coronavirus Test is Positive, Maybe It Shouldn’t Be.” They write: “The PCR test amplifies genetic matter from the virus in cycles; the fewer cycles required, the greater the amount of virus, or viral load in the sample. The greater the viral load, the more likely the patient is to be contagious.

“This number of amplification cycles needed to find the virus, called the cycle threshold, is never included in the results sent to doctors and coronavirus patients, although it could tell them how infectious the patients are.

“Most tests set the limit at 40 cycles, a few at 37. Tests with thresholds so high may detect not just live virus but genetic fragments, leftovers from

I

infection that pose no particular risk — akin to finding a hair in a room after a person has left, Dr. Mina said.”

On one Thursday the United States recorded 45,604 new coronavirus cases, according to a database maintained by The Times. If the rates of contagiousness in Massachusetts and New York were to apply nationwide, then perhaps only 4,500 of those people may actually need to isolate and submit to contact tracing. Mull that over for a little while.

Second question: I understand, and would like more clarity, that hospitals get paid by Medicare for signing death certificates. One rate for COVID death, $13,500 and another rate for any other death, $8,500. What would be the COVID death rate if those payouts were reversed? If the cycle on the PCR test is at 40 cycles then 95% more deaths could be attributed to COVID. Just asking.

STEPHEN FERRY El Dorado Hills

Village Life welcomes your letters, published online and in the paper. Send letter to editor@villagelife.com Include your name and contact information (only name and city of residence will be published) should we have any questions. Pseudonyms will not be used except at the discretion of the editor. For more information call Editor Noel Stack at (530) 344-5073.

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A4

DECEMBER 16, 2020

Friends of EDH Library launches matched campaign to fill shelves, support programs After a brief initial pandemic closure, library staff quickly adjusted services to offer touchless, curbside pickup and virtual programming.

For the first time El Dorado The library was among the first in County’s annual budget dropped the state to reopen for in-person to zero dollars allocated for book browsing and has successfully purchases and program funds for its remained open with guidelines in six library branches. The nonprofit, place. Friends donated $45,000 all-volunteer group Friends of to the library last year and has the El Dorado Hills Library has raised and donated more than “The budget cut means launched a campaign to seek $600,000 since the library was community donations to ensure that every single new book built. About 40% of the library’s that book shelves stay full and collection was donated by the programs continue. purchase and program organization.

“We have seen the early enhancements must come The mission of the Friends reader and children’s reference of the El Dorado Hills Library selections become decimated from donations to Friends.” is to support the community as more families rely on library library, its patrons and staff; to resources for children who are — Jan Robbins, EDH Library branch manager fund library and community distance learning or being homeoutreach programs, services and schooled,” said Jan Robbins, Friends president. “This matched facilities; to enrich the lives of El EDH Library branch manager. donation doubles the impact of Dorado Hills residents by advocat“Book circulation is again at preevery donor. It will help us reach ing the use of the library; and to pandemic levels. Programs have support the library through fundmoved to a virtual format and often our ambitious $25,000 goal so we can purchase more books for circu- raising efforts including memberhave waiting lists. The budget cut lation and provide programs when means that every single new book ships, financial gifts and endowour community needs them the purchase and program enhancements. For more information visit ments must come from donations most.”

FriendsoftheEDHLibrary.org. to Friends.”

“We are unable to hold our typical fundraising events during the pandemic. We are grateful to the Serrano Men’s Book Club for offering up to $8,000 in matched donations to help with this funding crisis,” said Marilyn Marcroft,

Karen Brown Friends of the El Dorado Hills Library

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When you experience the loss of a loved one, our Village Life team can help you convey information in several ways!

Obituary ~ You may write the tribute in your own words or if needed we can provide assistance. Obituaries will publish on the day requested, subject to publication deadline.

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Call Elizabeth Hansen for more information 530-344-5028

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Young readers are relying on the library more than ever as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. This year the Friends of the El Dorado Hills Library hopes to raise thousands to purchase more books.

Records

Continued from A1

pretty good,” he shared. ence in our commu“It was fun to be out nity,” said Stewart. “No sports were scheduled there and just do somefor fall 2020 and as a thing I love.” basketball and track Stewart said he hopes athlete, I still wanted to to make sports broadcompete.” casting a staple team in As team sports were TPSM. “Live-streaming temporarily tabled, he is more important than brainstormed a way that ever this year espeindividuals could comcially with all of the Photo by Mustafa Amjal pete against themselves Luke Stewart topples the OHRS uncertainty surroundwhile still adhering to ing sports,” he said. push-up record. social-distancing rules.

“If sporting events do “I learned our school happen, but no fans record for push-ups was 84 and I are allowed to attend, sports broadcastthought I could beat that so I came up ing will be the community’s lifeline to with the idea to have Oak Ridge athwatch high school sports.” letes compete to break or to set new He also plans to make the record records for our school. Adding fundrais- breaking event seasonal. ing helped the school and community Despite some scheduling difficulties, raise money that was needed with no Stewart is pleased with the success of gate admissions at school events,” he an event that required the coordinasaid, presenting the concept to the Oak tion of about 50 volunteers, including Ridge High School administration. He his sports broadcasting team members then established the Trojan Pride Sports James Casper, Andrew Casper, Bryan Marketing’s Sports Broadcasting Team Sangeorzan, Akash Srinivasan, Mikey of which Stewart is now vice president.

Jantzen and Nico Horning. The Oak The technology will be helpful for Ridge students setup tech equipment, winter and spring sports in the comdesigned graphic overlays, wrote scripts, ing year, especially if there are limitaresearched stats, organized and hosted tions on attendance for spectators, he the event. Other TPSM teams offered explained. “If no team sports occur we assistance, including the videography, have the possibility of schools competO-Zone, graphic design, publicity and ing virtually in skills challenges, like in photography teams. the NBA All Star Weekend,” he specuAnd, by the way, Stewart crushed the lated. push-up record. “My favorite part was Stewart said sports broadcasting combeing able to kick off the event as an bines several of his hobbies. “I have athlete breaking the school record with always had an interest in creating con103 push-ups,” he said, although he tent, such as videos, graphic design, and would rather be back to playing varsity cartoons,” he shared. “The limitless basketball and running for varsity track creative aspects of sports broadcasting again. “I am excited to see what we can being tied into sports is perfect.” do when our lives return to normalcy.”

Fellow Oak Ridge athletes were excited to take part.

Senior Jaden DeFazio, who juggled a The records soccer ball for 30 minutes and 42 secSenior athletes: onds, said his decision to participate was Justin Lamson: Football quarterback in part to help with COVID relief. “A (63 completed passes in 2 minutes) lot of us seniors are worried about our Brandon Barthel: Football receiver (63 last season of high school being canceled so it was the least I could do to help out completed passes in 2 minutes) Jaden DeFazio: Men’s soccer (30:42 with the situation,” he told Village Life. minutes juggling soccer ball) Junior Jack Gillingham completed 29 Ali O’Donnell: Women’s volleyball three-point shots in two minutes, even (245-pound deadlift) with some nervousness. “I had a lot of Junior athletes: fun competing and setting the record,” Iman Mustafa: Soccer (162 juggles in he said. “I think I could have done beta minute) ter but there was a little pressure.”

Teagan Brown: Women’s basketball And squeezing in 162 soccer ball (24 three-pointers made in 2 minutes) juggles in under a minute, junior Iman Jack Gillingham: Men’s basketball Mustafa said it was nice to be able to (29 three-pointers made in 2 minutes) participate in a competition again. “I Luke Stewart: Men’s basketball and definitely could’ve gotten way more juggles but the number I got was still track & field (103 consecutive push-ups)

Shutdown Restrictions remain in effect for a minimum of three weeks.

“Over the last several weeks in our county there has been a rise in positive COVID-19 cases, hospital and ICU case admissions and the need to activate the hospitals’ surge plans to accommodate these patients,” states a press release from county officials. “Our hospitals have begun using overflow areas and utilizing additional respiratory, ICU and emergency room staff, including those from the National Guard, to meet the needs of our communities.”

The most recent data available list more than 1,500 active COVID-19 cases in the county with 25 patients in the hospital and 14 of those in the ICU. Eight people have died in the county from the virus.

Region-wide, ICU capacity was listed at 12.7% as of press time.

The San Joaquin Valley and Southern California regions are also locked down at this time and the Bay Area is edging closer to meeting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s threshold.

El Dorado County Health Officer Nancy Williams reported the county will receive 975 doses of a vaccine developed by Pfizer in a shipment expected this week. High-risk healthcare workers are slated to receive the vaccine first and then high-risk patients in skilled nursing facilities.

Continued from A1 People will need two doses of the vaccine for it to be effective. Those in the general population are expected to get access to the vaccine in late spring or summer 2021.

Other companies are also releasing vaccines but those are expected to come after Pfizer’s. Williams said vaccines from different companies can’t be mixed; people shouldn’t take their first dose from one company and a second dose from another.

Local businesses are adjusting as best they can to the change during what would normally be a very busy season.

Many local restaurants are offering curbside pickup and takeout while retail establishments are limiting visitors and offering curbside services. Residents are encouraged to call or visit the website of their favorite restaurants/businesses to find out how they can support them during this challenging time.

“It is more critical than ever before to spend our dollars with those in our chamber and in our community from home-base, to small to medium and large businesses,” notes El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Debbie Manning in a message to members. “Together we are making a difference and I am confident that we will continue to support each other and it will become as automatic as putting on our seatbelts.”

A5

DECEMBER 16, 2020

2020

Official Ballot Cast Your Vote for the Best...

Dining

Just for me

automotive

Asian Food

Casino

Car Wash

Bakery & Cakes

Children’s Entertainment

Car Detailing

Dance Studio

BBQ

Day Spa

Breakfast

Fitness Center

Brunch

New Car Dealer Tire Dealer

Golf Course

Used Car Dealer

Catering

Massage

Coffee

Music Instruction/Store

pets

Deli

Sports Bar

Dinner

Tanning Salon

Pet Friendly Business

Tap House

Pet Groomer

Winery

Pet Sitting

Wine Tasting

Pet Store

Fine Dining Hamburger Hot Dog

Swimming Lessons

Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt

Yoga Studio

Lunch

professional services

Doggie Day Care

Pet Training Veterinary Practice

Assisted Living Facility

retail stores

New Restaurant

Bank

Art Gallery

Pizza

Barbershop

Athletic Gear

Sandwich

Charitable Organization

Consignment/Clothing & Other

Seafood

Chiropractor

Mexican Food

Cosmetic Surgery

Steak

CPA

Sushi

Day Care

Taqueria

Dry Cleaners Event/Party Rentals Furniture Store

Dentist

Gift Shop

Estate Sales

Grocery Store

Building Materials & Hardware

Financial Advisor

Health Food Store

Carpet Cleaning

Firearms Training

Jewelry Store

Home improvement

Consignment – Furniture Electrician Floor Coverings

Hair Salon Hearing Center Hospital Housing Development

Furnishings/Decor

In-Home Care Services

Heating/Air Conditioning

Insurance Agency

Home & Garden Accessories

Lawyer

House Cleaning Service

Mail & Shipping Services

General Contractor Interior Lighting & Accessories Landscape/Design

Personnel Services Physical Therapy

Painting Contractor

Private School

Pest Control

Real Estate Agent

Plumbing

Real Estate Company

Solar Company Window Treatment

Women’s Shop

Orthodontist

Preschool

Roofing

Shopping Center

Mortgage Co.

Nursery/Garden Center

Pools/Outdoor Lighting

Mattresses/Bedding

2020

Real Estate Broker, Independant Title Company Travel Agency Tutoring Service Vision Center

How to

1. Fill in your favorite candidate for each category. Do not list the same name more than once per ballot.

2. Include complete business name or person’s name. If you nominate an individual, be sure to include the name of the business in which they work.

3. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY. 4. Candidates must be businesses or people within El Dorado Hills & immediate vicinity.

How to

A. No purchase necessary.

B. Mail or drop off to: Village Life c/o Mountain Democrat 2889 Ray Lawyer Dr., Placerville, CA 95667 C. All ballots must be received by 5 p.m., Thursday, December 31, 2020.

D. No photo copies accepted.

VOte: enter: NAME STREET CITY/ST/ZIP PHONE

A6

December 16, 2020

Questions? In El Dorado County, contact Adult Protection Services at 530-642-4800 ¿Preguntas? ¿Necesita ayuda? En el Condado de El Dorado, comuniquese con Los Servicious de Protección para Adultos al 530-642-4800

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Lisa Paragary CalBRE #01196924 (916) 247-1303

Steve Miller CalBRE #01860963 (916) 799-7547

2105 Landes Lane, Shingle Springs 4,044 square feet 5 bedrooms, 5 baths 5-acre property Listed at $1,299,000 MLS #20072235

Private estate is a luxurious escape

L

uxury meets country living at this gorgeous Landes Lane estate in Shingle Springs.

Step inside this sprawling, remodeled home and prepare to be impressed. The open floor plan lives like a single story, boasting five bedrooms and five bathrooms, a home office and bonus room.

The gorgeous chef’s kitchen features white cabinetry, quartz countertops, a pantry closet and top-of-the-line stainless appliances, including a gas cooktop, double ovens, microwave and built-in refrigerator. Enjoy a meal while seated at the center island, which has a built-in wine refrigerator, or gather around the table in the open dining area

COMING SOON!

that flows seamlessly from the kitchen. Cabinetry in this space makes serving meals buffet-style a breeze.

A more formal dining room is located near the front of the home. The bright room features classic wainscoting and a vintage-style chandelier hanging from the tray ceiling.

The living room adjacent to the kitchen/dining area is an airy space with a tall ceiling, cozy fireplace and built-in entertainment center. Large windows bathe the room in natural light and offer a rustic view.

The luxurious, main-level master suite boasts a romantic ■

See LANDES LANE, page B2

Home for the Holidays

South Shingle Road, Shingle Springs 4 Bedroom | 3 Full Baths | 2.6 Acre

At Christmas, all roads lead home.

— Marjorie Holmes

6960 Gild Creek Road, Shingle Springs 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths | 2,996 Est. Sq. Ft. | Offered at $939,900

Spectacular Sunsets & Stunning View. Architecturally designed home on 10 acres in Shingle Springs. The gourmet kitchen includes stainless appliances, commercial style range & a view from every window. The downstairs master suite includes a fireplace that can be enjoyed from the spa-like master bath as well. Upstairs is a loft, guest bedroom, bathroom, & spacious home office w/its own entry. This is a great setup for anyone that is looking to work from home & includes great internet access! 3 car garage includes storage cabinets. RV/boat storage possible outside.

Merry Christmas to all our Wonderful Clients, Friends & Family.

916-932-8750

100+ 5 Star Ratings

info@KarenAndPaul.com | www.KarenAndPaul.com VIRTUAL TOURS AVAILABLE DRE# 01510253 & 01879175

as determined by client feedback

B2

DECEMBER 16, 2020

Landes Lane fireplace with a built-in niche above, a walk-in closet, tray ceiling, large windows and a glass door that opens onto the back deck. The spa-inspired master bath is the perfect place to unwind. Relax in the jetted tub or wash away stress in the walk-in shower. The bathroom has two separate sinks, which makes it easy to get ready in the morning without getting in someone else’s way, plus a private toilet.

The downstairs office features gorgeous, boxbeam ceilings and is perfect for working from home.

The huge, upstairs bonus room includes a full bath and doubles as a perfect teen retreat and/ or workout space.

When it’s time to step outdoors, these 5 acres offer privacy in a very serene setting with gorgeous views. The property includes fenced areas

Continued from B1

for livestock/horses and flat gravel areas for boat/ RV parking. Located less than two miles from Highway 50, it also has an owned solar field and a new generator.

Backyard entertaining is made easy. The outdoor resort oasis includes a solar-heated pool, elevated spa, fire pit, outdoor kitchen and expansive entertaining areas.

The front yard gives this estate impressive curb appeal with a lush

lawn, well-manicured shrubs surrounding a fountain and a variety of mature trees. The circular driveway leads to an attached, three-car garage and also offers plenty of guest parking.

Interested in this Landis Hill Estates home? Contact Lisa Paragary at (916) 2471303 or lisa@paragarymillerteam.com or Steve Miller at (916) 799-7547 or steve@ paragarymillerteam.com.

Compassion, Care, Dignity and Respect In your time of need, we promise honest, upfront pricing and will never overcharge or mislead you. We encourage you to compare our services, facilities, and fees with others and we offer pre-planning services. We have proudly served the families of Northern California for over 35 years.

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795

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Debi’s Featured Home 3496 Fairway Drive, Cameron Park • $1,077,000 3 BR|3 BA|3,100 SqFt

.38 ac. on 4th GREEN of the CPCC . Take a virtual tour thru this energy efficient ICF home. radiant heated floors throughout. great room concept, gorgeous stone fireplace, charming chefs’ kitchen; sub zero refrigerator, butcher block island with sink, plus second island for dining bar. fabulous office with many built-in and windows. master suite with outside access. steam shower and claw tub. dream car collector garage is 1661sf and 28’ deep with cabinetry and attic storage, central vac also in garage. golf course access, 400 amp service. RV potential, with electrical hookup.

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

7000 Popo Lane, Camino 4/5 BR|4.5 BA|4,910 sqft|Apple Hill

$1,225,000

1876 Dysart Way, Folsom 3 BR|3 BA|1,988 sqft

1950 Carson Road, Placerville 3 BR | 2 BA |2,696 sqft

$690,000

$1,159,000

SOLD

SOLD

5111 Arlington Way, El Dorado Hills 3 BR|2 BA|2,128 sqft

5301 Weeping Willow, Shingle Springs 4 BR|5 BA|5,693 sqft

SOLD

SOLD

4944 Breese Circle, El Dorado Hills 4 BR|5 BA|5,570 sqft

5820 Dolomite Drive, El Dorado Hills 3 BR|3 BA|2,394 sqft

$701,000

$1,680,000

SOLD

SOLD

$1,600,000

$1,050,000

SOLD

4501 Pleasant Valley Road, Placerville 3 BR | 3 BA |2,120 sqft | Adjacent 3.25 acres

3115 Pinchem Creek Dr, Rescue 3 BR|2/1 BA|2,960 sqft

$739,000

$794,000

SOLD

SOLD

$690,111

3021 Pinchem Creek, Rescue 4/5 BR | 3.5 BA |5 Acres|Guest House

3088 Demartini Drive, Roseville 4 BR | 2 BA |2,066 sqft

$659,000

6401 Templeton Dr., Carmichael 3 BR|2 BA|1,280 sqft|.16 Acre

$439,000

Your Real Estate connection –

From Next Door to a Global Community. Call Me Anytime from Anywhere

DEBI AMBROFF President’s Elite

916-425-9930 Lic. #01017131

2014, 2015, 201 6, 2017, 2018 & 2019

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Call today or visit my website at www.debi4homes.net

B3

DECEMBER 16, 2020

Moving along — homebuying stories in 2020

T

he United States Postal Service personally with every potential client, has a pretty good idea as to regardless of their current financial who is moving and where. situation. At our meeting I explained That’s because we voluntarily comthe difficult road they would need to plete a change of address card when travel to purchase their first home. we move. According to the USPS, They would need to earn more, spend 15.9 million people moved between less and save as much money as posFebruary and July and the numbers are sible. I explained the process may take accelerating. By the end of the year, a year or longer but their sacrifices 30 million people will have relocated would ensure a brighter and more from one place to another. secure future. When finished I noticed There will be 6 million U.S. homea tear rolling down Jessie’s cheek. owners who will sell their home this Instantly I remembered that firstyear. In California 450,000 hometime buyers can also be very emoKen Calhoon owners will sell and move and in El tional and perhaps I needed to soften Dorado County, 3,200 homebuyers my presentation. Jessie noticed my Real estate columnist will fill out a change-of-address card. concern and between a forced smile There are millions of stories about and sniffles explained that her mother families moving in and out of their homes. This had passed a few months earlier. It would be the first week’s column is about three of them.

Christmas without her and the first with Brian. They wanted to start their own family and they would do whatever I thought was best. Their heartfelt desire First-time buyers and commitment to own a home was the rewarding part of working with first-time buyers.

Working with first-time buyers is difficult. The This Christmas Brian and Jessie are settled in their odds are stacked against them. Lenders are cautious modest home in Pollock Pines. Working lots of overby nature and first-time buyers are considered the time advanced Brian’s career and paid off their two highest mortgage default risk. Typically they have vehicles. A small settlement from Jessie’s mother’s limited funds for a downpayment, their working career is brief and they usually have student and vehi- estate helped with their down payment. Brian called me Thanksgiving Day to say thanks again for all my cle loans, along with credit card debt. In El Dorado help and by the way, they were expecting a baby this County first-time buyers have few entry-level homes spring. to choose from and when sellers are comparing multiple offers an offer from a first-time buyer is considered riskier and less attractive.

Move-up buyers Brian and Jessie were referred to me by Brian’s employer about this time last year. They were newly The challenge working with move-up buyers is married, new on the job, had little savings and two they often have a house to sell. That’s not a problem car payments. They wanted very much, however, to if it’s sold or in escrow before making an offer on own a home. another home but the logistics get complicated when I was tempted to tell them to call me in a year or move-up buyers won’t let go of their existing home when they had paid off their vehicles and saved lots until they have another in escrow. Sellers today are of money. My philosophy has always been to meet hesitant to accept a buyer’s offer when it’s contingent

upon the sale of the buyer’s home.

Tom was a move-up buyer from the Bay Area.

He had a house to sell and an attitude. He was not going to list his house for sale until he had another one under contract. After the third rejected offer I was ready to fire Tom as a client. He had rejected all my suggested strategies for move-up buyers. When he returned my call regarding another home we had previewed I vented my frustration.

“Tom, you’re a nice guy to work with and you could have a home in escrow by now but it’s not working out for either of us. It’s time you found another agent.”

His response was not what I had expected: “You can’t fire me. What do we need to do?”

Tom moved into his new home in El Dorado Hills a few months ago. His home in the Bay Area sold quickly and his offer was acceptable contingent upon Tom’s housing “closing.” I received a Christmas card from Tom saying, “Thanks for firing me.”

Full circle Angela was a single mother with three girls who I helped buy her first home in Placerville 18 years ago.

Over the years we traded Christmas cards and occasionally she would call or email with questions about her home. She always made me feel special, thanking me for making a difference in her and her daughters’ lives. I had not heard from Angela in the last year and discovered why when I receive a phone call from her oldest daughter.

“Mom died a few weeks ago. While going through her belongings we found your business card with her instructions: ‘When it’s time to sell call Ken.’” Life is about decisions and the moves we make along its path. Our final destination is the same. It’s the journey that’s important.

Ken Calhoon is a real estate broker in El Dorado County. He can be reached for questions and comments at ken@kencalhoon.com.

Before you turn on the light ... PG&E rates to go up 8% PG&E officials said the rate hike will enable it to invest in its electric and gas distribution systems and power generation infrastructure.

As part of its Community Wildfire Safety Program PG&E plans to install stronger and resilient poles and covered power lines in high fire-risk areas; increase ongoing work to keep power lines clear of branches from an estimated 120 million trees with the potential to grow or fall into overhead power lines; implement SmartMeter technology to more quickly identify and respond to fallen power lines; enhance weather forecasting and modeling by adding 1,300 new weather stations in high fire-risk areas by 2022; and install nearly 600 high-definition wildfire detection cameras in high firethreat areas, increasing coverage across these areas to more than 90%.

The California Public Utility Commission approved the increase

Dawn Hodson Staff writer The California Public Utility Commission recently approved an 8.1% increase in rates charged by PG&E to help the once-bankrupt utility pay for improvements designed to reduce the risk of wildfires ignited by outdated equipment.

The higher prices are expected to impact residential customers. In March 2021 the average residential customer can expect to see a monthly bill increase of $13.45 ($10.40 for electric and $3.05 for gas). California Alternate Rates for Energy customers can expect to see a monthly bill increase of $8.99 ($6.60 for electric and $2.39 for gas).

The rate change will be effective March 1 and will impact rates through Dec. 31, 2022.

The San Francisco utility emerged from bankruptcy five months ago.

after two years of wrangling between PG&E and a variety of groups battling to limit how much of the financial burden customers would have to shoulder for the utility’s neglect of a grid that supplies power to about 16 million people.

PG&E’s outdated equipment was blamed for causing a series of wildfires during 2017 and 2018 that killed more than 120 people and destroyed more than 27,000 homes and other buildings. The damage caused PG&E to file for bankruptcy in 2019, opening a legal avenue for the company to negotiate $25.5 billion in settlements with wildfire victims and others.

While the 2020 rate change will help fund a series of important safety investments, it will not fund legal claims resulting from the 2017 and 2018 Northern California wildfires. It also will not fund PG&E corporation or utility officer compensation.

PG&E officials said they are also making changes aimed at decreasing the scope of deliberate blackouts imposed during dry and windy weather conditions that raise wildfire risks in Northern California.

Customers might have been even harder hit if not for the resistance to PG&E’s initial plan. The utility originally sought about $2 billion in additional revenue from customer rate increases from 2020 to 2022, according to regulatory documents. The final settlement approved by regulators will instead give PG&E an additional $1.15 billion.

PG&E has programs that offer customers discounts on their energy bill through the California Alternate Rates for Energy program, the Family Electric Rate Assistance program or through the Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help program.

JASON JACKSON SIERRA HOME INSPECTION “The Real Deal”

530-363-3090 • sierrahome@gmail.com

Lic. # 882729 General Contractor Certified Inspector

Jason Jackson owner owner

Homes for Sale in El Dorado Hills Area As of December 7, 2020

PRICE

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by MetroList®. All information provided by seller/other sources has not been verified by a broker.

All interested persons should independently verify accuracy of all included information. Listing subject to change without notice. Copyright © 2020 MetroList Services, Inc.

ADDRESS

BD BA

EL DORADO HILLS $409,999 $475,000 $595,000 $610,000 $627,500 $635,000 $638,326 $642,333 $649,900 $688,000 $695,000 $699,000 $699,900 $720,000 $749,000 $769,000 $779,000 $799,000 $799,000 $799,900 $839,999 $849,990 $850,000 $899,000 $910,000 $924,900 $939,900 $979,500

2230 VALLEY VIEW PKWY #921 2 855 STONEMAN WAY 3 4073 MONTE VERDE DR 5 774 EL NIDO CT 3 3215 STONEHURST DR 4 3572 STOCKWOOD WAY 3 1059 SENEGAL WAY 3 1066 SENEGAL WAY 3 3545 MILFORD CIR 3 4643 MONTE MAR DR. 4 1640 DAUNTING DR 5 2158 AIKEN WAY 4 969 QUEEN ANNE COURT 4 3541 LANDSDALE WAY 4 4063 BANCROFT DR 4 708 ANNA PL 4 1792 TOBY 4 6597 GOYA WAY 4 2101 FRASCATI DR 4 8086 DAMICO DR 5 1500 HIDDEN BRIDGE RD 3 8969 SUMMERFIELD WAY 5 3206 WARREN LN 4 1113 ARBOR PL 4 7260 BREAKER POINT 4 5039 BRENTFORD WAY 5 8014 JURA PLACE 4 7124 RYAN RANCH RD 3

ADDRESS

EL DORADO HILLS

6808 BELFOUR LN 2599 PENDLETON DR 4084 ZENAIDA WAY 2127 AIKEN WAY 4887 VILLAGE GREEN DR 4032 MACPHEADRIS WAY 2094 LAMEGO WAY

2 (2 0) 2 (2 0) 3 (3 0) 4 (3 1) 3 (3 0) 2 (2 0) 3 (2 1) 3 (2 1) 3 (2 1) 3 (3 0) 3 (2 1) 3 (3 0) 3 (2 1) 3 (2 1) 3 (3 0) 4 (4 0) 3 (3 0) 3 (3 0) 3 (3 0) 4 (4 0) 4 (3 1) 3 (3 0) 3 (3 0) 4 (4 0) 5 (4 1) 5 (4 1) 4 (3 1) 4 (3 1)

SF

1340 1630 2218 2021 2190 2132 2051 2051 2334 2828 2974 2630 2240 2891 3380 3367 3172 3121 3377 4076 3100 3234 2858 3259 3545 4012 3056 3904

ACRES

0.37 0.14 0.37 0.18 0.20 0.14 0.12 0.26 0.19 0.15 0.18 0.80 0.29 0.39 0.21 0.17 0.25 0.31 0.21 3.11 0.21 0.32 0.42 0.50 0.17 0.02 10.48

LISTING #

PRICE

20056476 20065051 20052352 20068866 20072139 20071480 20066780 20066708 20070371 20071956 20071779 20070794 20071161 20070391 20072088 20070689 20069745 20072228 20068658 20067803 20013119 20064779 20069026 20066171 20058450 20066806 20071021 20055985

$1,000,000 $1,025,000 $1,098,000 $1,099,000 $1,099,990 $1,125,000 $1,125,000 $1,190,000 $1,238,308 $1,249,000 $1,295,000 $1,299,000 $1,389,000 $1,599,000 $1,639,000 $1,700,000 $1,750,000 $1,775,000 $1,798,000 $1,850,000 $1,874,900 $1,895,000 $1,945,000 $2,098,000 $2,100,000 $2,325,000 $2,350,000 $2,675,000 $4,000,000 $4,900,000

ADDRESS

BD BA

2322 KEYSTONE DR 211 GUNSTON CT 608 CALABRIA CT 1597 LOS ALTOS CT 1367 SOUZA DR 1008 TERRACINA DR 2111 OUTRIGGER DR 2651 MORMON ISLAND DR 3613 GREENVIEW DR 741 KNIGHT LN 830 HADDINGTON RD 4013 HAWICK WAY 2298 LOCH WAY 5489 SUR MER DR 5456 SUR MER DR 3924 GREENVIEW DRIVE 5065 GREYSON CREEK DR 2687 CAPETANIOS DR 4333 GRESHAM DR 6003 WESTERN SIERRA WAY 5200 DA VINCI DR 5215 BREESE CIR 2729 CAPETANIOS DR 3805 GREENVIEW DR 2931 CAPETANIOS DR 5060 DA VINCI DR 5351 DA VINCI DR 4441 GRESHAM DR 2716 HIGHLAND HILLS DR 1127 CLEARVIEW DR

SF

4 4 (3 1) 6 5 (5 0) 5 5 (5 0) 3 4 (4 0) 5 5 (3 2) 5 6 (5 1) 3 4 (3 1) 4 4 (3 1) 3 4 (3 1) 4 4 (3 1) 4 5 (5 0) 3 3 (2 1) 6 5 (4 1) 5 6 (5 1) 5 5 (4 1) 4 7 (4 3) 4 6 (5 1) 4 4 (3 1) 4 6 (5 1) 5 5 (5 0) 4 5 (4 1) 6 6 (5 1) 5 4 (4 0) 5 6 (5 1) 0-4 4 (3 1) 5 7 (6 1) 6 6 (5 1) 4 4 (3 1) 6 8 (6 2) 5 6 (5 1)

2707 4878 4380 4184 4000 4897 4780 3717 3064 3571 4012 3267 5744 5252 4637 6696 6300 4860 5374 6236 4284 6010 5950 4419 3835 5806 5195 4804 10275 7043

El Dorado Hills Area Homes Sold Recently

BD

BA

4 4 4 4 3 5 5

4 (4 0) 3 (2 1) 4 (3 1) 3 (2 1) 3 (2 1) 4 (3 1) 3 (3 0)

SQ.FT.

2426 2083 2504 2347 3185 3332 4097

ACRES

PRICE

ADDRESS

BD

0.08 0.29 0.12 0.26 0.28 0.26 0.26

$518,000 $582,500 $685,683 $717,500 $752,000 $850,000 $917,500

3957 ROYAL TROON DR 890 CANDLEWOOD DR 411 REEM CT 5000 PIAZZA PL 5270 DA VINCI DR 600 CHERT CT 500 ACHILLES CT 3035 COURBET WAY

3 4 5 6 4 6 4 4

BA

4 (2 2) 4 (3 1) 3 (3 0) 4 (4 0) 6 (4 2) 6 (5 1) 4 (4 0) 5 (4 1)

SQ.FT.

3648 4157 3799 4244 4379 7092 4943 4500

ACRES 0.43 0.27 0.25 0.56 0.56 0.28 0.45 1.00 0.30 0.35 1.60 0.25 0.69 0.42 0.42 0.53 0.80 1.02 0.86 0.76 0.52 0.43 1.61 0.63 0.67 0.47 0.71 0.76 3.08 1.63

ACRES

0.20 0.30 0.75 0.79 0.48 0.81 1.70 0.86

LISTING # 20069511 20066612 20063505 20054817 20053606 20002670 20070088 20061316 20069455 20065778 20062360 20065527 20068044 20056280 20029823 20018009 20066964 20064482 20065215 20062361 20062874 20061804 20064176 20063431 20067565 20060000 20069631 20063266 20056887 20066638

PRICE

$998,000 $1,000,000 $1,025,000 $1,450,000 $1,900,000 $2,385,000 $2,449,888 $2,649,000

B4

December 16, 2020

County to allow RVs as temporary homes n Tahoe vacation rentals capped Dawn Hodson Staff writer Facing a housing shortage the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on Dec. 2 unanimously approved an emergency ordinance allowing a temporary recreational vehicle to be used as a home on parcels 1 acre in size or larger that are zoned for residential use.

Recreational vehicles could be used to provide temporary housing for a property owner or family member or to allow for in-home care of family members who reside on the lot as a temporary housing option for hardship purposes.

Recreational vehicles could also be used to provide temporary housing for a caretaker where the purpose of the caretaker is to assist elderly or disabled home-

owners with personal care or the care and protection of their property.

The county defines a temporary recreational vehicle as a motor home or travel trailer with or without motive power that is designed for recreational or emergency occupancy; contains less than 320 square feet of internal living room area, excluding built-in equipment; contains 400 square feet or less of the gross area measured at maximum horizontal projections; is built on a single chassis; and is self-propelled or permanently towable on California roadways.

Only one permit for a temporary recreational vehicle would be allowed per lot so no “villages” or “clustering” of RVs occurs. Staff said the ordinance would not supersede any existing CC&Rs on a property.

Staff said many of the same provisions governing temporary mobile homes would apply to temporary recreational vehicles, including the permit process.

The permits would be good for up to two years.

On another housing-related issue, the board approved an ordinance placing a cap of 900 permits on vacation home rentals in the Tahoe Basin.

Previously staff had recommended supervisors approve a cap on the number of permits in the Tahoe Basin at 1,050. That number represented approximately 12% of the total number of existing residential parcels and developable lots in the basin. Staff said currently there are 591 active permitted VHRs in the unincorporated areas of the basin and 135 in process for a total of 726.

After a discussion on the value of a cap on permits versus better enforcement of existing regulations governing VHRs, the ordinance as written was approved by Chair Brian Veerkamp along with Supervisors Shiva Frentzen, John Hidahl and Lori Parlin. Supervisor Sue Novasel, who represents the Tahoe region recused herself because of a resident’s request that she do so due to her husband’s investment company.

FAIR Plan homeowners insurance rates set to rise n Insurers see $350 million in claims Dawn Hodson Staff writer Rural Californians using the California FAIR Plan will soon experience a sharp increase in their homeowners’ insurance due to rising wildfire claims in the state.

Rent. Buy. Sell.

Employment QUALITY ENGINEERS, SENIOR (El Dorado Hills, CA): Responsible for business requirements gathering, design review sessions, requirement analysis and creation of case studies for business needs; estimations submission, preparing detailed test plan, test strategy based on the business requirements and time to market schedules.

Remote work permitted up to 3 days per week.

Mail resumes to Blue Shield of California, Attn: Mr. Sean Zheng, Manager, Talent Acquisition Operations 601 12th Street, Oakland, CA 94607.

Reference job number #PP7402.

WANT TO SEE YOUR AD HERE? Contact the Classifieds Department at (530) 622-1255 and place your ad today!

El Dorado Irrigation District is seeking:

Construction & Maintenance Worker I: Pay Range: $24.41-$29.67/per hour FFD: December 31, 2020 The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Construction and Maintenance Worker I for an eligibility list to fill current and future positions in the Drinking Water Department of the Operations Division.

Under supervision performs a variety of maintenance and construction tasks associated with the installation, repair and maintenance of water distribution systems and operates light and moderately heavy power-driven equipment.

You must be in possession of or have the ability to obtain a Class B driver’s license within probationary period.

This position requires overtime, availability to perform stand-by responsibilities and emergency response.

For a complete job description and the REQUIRED application, please visit our website at www.eid.org or call 530-642-4020.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

2890 Mosquito Road Placerville, CA 95667 Fax: (530) 622-1134

Dec. 7 Anneliese Jivan, president of the California FAIR Plan association, said rates will increase Jan. 1 an average of 15.6% for rural clients to cover the costs of heightened risk of wildfire. Those living in urban areas aren’t expected to see as much of an increase, if any, because of the lower risk of wildfire.

The California FAIR Plan, the state’s insurer of last resort, is comprised of all insurers authorized to transact basic property insurance in California. Coverage is available to all California property owners.

Many rural clients were forced to turn to the FAIR Plan after the 2018 disastrous fire in Paradise, dubbed the Camp Fire, which killed 85 people and burned close to 19,000 structures.

Following the fire it was not unusual for rural customers to have their homeowners’ insurance canceled or non-renewed. Some 235,250 policies were discontinued in 2019, a 31% increase from 2018, according to the California Department of Insurance, while FAIR Plan policies increased statewide by 36% from the end of 2018 to the end of 2019, with most of

the growth in insurance company non-renewals and FAIR Plan writing in areas with higher wildfire risk.

This year was also devastating when it came to the state’s wildfires. Cal Fire reports five of the six largest wildfires in California’s history occurring this year with the August Complex alone burning more than 1 million acres and more than 4 million acres burning overall up and down the state.

Those wildfires cost the FAIR Plan insurers $350 million in claims since Sept. 1.

Over the past two years the state has prohibited mainstream carriers from canceling coverage in areas that burned. That move allowed hundreds of thousands of homeowners to keep their policies. But there is no indication if that protection will be extended in the coming year.

In the meantime those using the FAIR Plan can expect to pay more and those with conventional insurers may be forced onto the FAIR Plan for the first time.

Survey: The pandemic changes California homebuying behavior California Association of Realtors News release

While all price segments were more competitive than the prior year, market competition varied between price segments. Midpriced range homes ($500,000 to $1 million) were most sought after with 67.3% receiving multiple offers. They also received the most multiple offers (6 offers), were most likely (37.3%) to receive an offer at or above the asking price and sold the fastest (10 days).

Reasons for buying

LOS ANGELES — A renewed interest in homeownership during the COVID-19 pandemic has changed homebuyers’ housing choices, widened the imbalance between housing supply and demand in California and created a more competitive housing market than ever before, according to the California Association of Realtors’ 2020 annual Housing Market Survey.

The pandemic has changed consumers’ housing preferences.

With remote working becoming the norm, buyers’ housing demand is slowly evolving. Since the coronavirus outbreak, more than two of five Realtors (43.6%) saw a change in buyers’ preferences in the property type they want to purchase. Of those changes, 39% of Realtors who responded said their buyers are opting for a bigger home; 35% said buyers are opting for a property with more rooms; 37% said buyers are less concerned about the commute time to work; 37% said buyers are opting to live in a suburb rather than a city; 26% said buyers are opting to live in rural areas rather than cities or suburbs.

More people are buying vacation or second homes this year as its share of total sales rose to the highest level in four years. The flexibility to work from home and the desire to move from metropolitan areas motivated homebuyers to relocate to resort communities in search of more space and a healthier lifestyle.

The top three reasons homebuyers purchased a home remain the same as last year. A quarter (25%) of buyers bought because they were tired of renting, and one of five (20%) bought because they desired a larger home. Another one-fifth (19%) bought because they desired a better location.

With the cost of borrowing at historic lows, buying a home makes more sense than renting for many first-time buyers. As such, more than half (54%) of all firsttime buyers purchased a home because they were tired of renting. For repeat buyers, 25% said their primary reason for buying was a desire for a larger home, an increase from 21% last year.

Good time to sell Home listings flew off the shelves at record pace in 2020, and more homes sold above asking price.

Results from CAR’s 2020 Annual Housing Market Survey suggest that home sellers typically pocketed a net gain of $210,000 from their home sale — a 63.8% increase from the purchase price. Not surprisingly, the gain was greater the longer they owned their home.

Sellers who lived in their home for less than five years typically earned a 16.5% profit from their sale, while those who lived in their house five or more years typically earned a 100% profit.

CAR has conducted its annual Housing Market Survey since 1981.

The survey was sent via email to a random sample of 60,124 Realtors throughout California, asking them to provide information about their most recent sales transaction that closed escrow between April 2020 and August 2020. The survey instrument was a questionnaire with both multiple choice and open-ended questions. There were 3,103 valid survey responses, equivalent to a response rate of 5.2%. The margin of error for this survey was +/- 1.8% at a 95% confidence level.

Market competition Homes for sale received more multiple offers, and the average number of offers reached their highest levels since 2013. Nearly two-thirds (59.2%) of homes sold in 2020 received multiple offers at an average of 4.8 offers per home.

In 2019, less than half (47.7%) of homes sold received multiple offers with an average of 3.9 offers on each home.

Further illustrating the high level of competitiveness this year, a bigger share of properties was sold above their asking price in 2020.

Over a third (35.5%) of homebuyers paid more than what home sellers asked for this year, compared to a quarter (26.7%) in 2019. In fact, this year’s level is the highest in seven years and is 16% higher than the long-run average.

Service Directory Serving El Dorado Hills

Aasen Construction And Remodeling Company • New Homes • Remodels • Additions • Decks

• Complete Construction • Kitchen & Bath • Concrete

Steven Aasen www.aasenconst.com General Contractor • Lic# 626760

(530)

Plumbing

Hauling And Cleaning

Construction

672-9776

Hauling & Clean ups — All Areas —

Large & Small jobs!

Mobilehome Removal Experts!

Clean, polite service

7 dayS: 8aM-9pM

(530) 409-5455

(916) 806-9741

CL#828505

24-Hour Emergency Service!

7 Days a Week

INC.

We Charge By the Job, Not by the Hour • Residential & Commercial • Water Heater Specialist • All Pumping Repairs

✔ Gutter installation, cleaning and repair ✔ Roof - tile and shingle repair, cleaning ✔ Dryer vent installation, cleaning and repair FREE Estimates

916-317-2237

J. Tyler Wiese, OWNER, Contractor’s Lic #956824 www.foothill-service.com

• Septic Pumping Services • Drain cleaning, repiping • Trenchless Pipe Replacement

934-2440

(916)

Dominic Stone — Owner

Guttter Cleaning

GUTTER GUARDS

Immediate Response!

Call Elizabeth Hansen 344-5028 to place your ad today!

www.domcoplumbing.com

B5

DECEMBER 16, 2020

2019

Celebrating 2019 Winners!

Best Sandwich Best Pet Groomer: Dog’s Delight

As you pass the Purple Place on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills, you have likely noticed a small building at the edge of the road — home of Dog’s Delight owned by Jamie McNally.

359 Green Valley Road El Dorado Hills (916) 939-3647

She adds a touch of whimsy to her establishment with the display of several types of life-sized stuffed dog breeds that are decorated for the seasons.

McNally and her staff offer one-stop grooming services for dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes. Her shop is very easily accessed with ample parking to drop off and pick up your pet. So, stop by and see why Dog’s Delight is voted No. 1.

Get your furry friend’s nails trimmed or treat them to a beautiful makeover.

Walk-ins are always welcomed.

Best Sandwich Best Massage: Massage Envy

2019

BestGift Sandwich of Kids Daycare and Preschool

5130 Golden Foothill Parkway

El Dorado Hills We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, private Kindergarten, homework tutor club and (916) 521-1835 thegiftofkids.net transportation for school agers. The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool include talent that brings us music, yoga, and even Spanish on a daily basis. Teachers here are all educated in child development, CPR and First Aid certified, and make it a priority to continue their education.

Over the years, not only have we focused on love and education here at the school, but we have also been involved in sponsoring many local non-profit groups

Best Barbecue: Back Forty Texas BBQ

4510 Post St., Suite 340, El Dorado Hills Massage is a great way to keep your body moving and (916) 941-6850 keep doing the things you love. For a massage that will leave you relaxed and feeling your best long after massageenvy.com getting off the table, head to Massage Envy in El Dorado Hills Town Center. Since 2007, clients have enjoyed the therapeutic and soothing techniques of knowledgeable and skilled professionals.

“They not only understand the benefits of massage, they genuinely care about people,” owner Laurie Vaqueiro said of her staff.

Massage Envy El Dorado Hills has 29 service providers ready to help you take care of yourself. Ask about their Total Body Stretch and Advanced Skin Care services while scheduling your next appointment.

Best Flooring: Sacramento Area Wood Specialists

Sacramento Area Wood Specialists specializes in the installation of pre-finished hardwood, laminate, carpet and vinyl flooring in both the residential and commercial environment.

11467 Sunrise Gold Circle, Suite 7, Rancho Cordova (916) 879-1798 sawsflooring.com

Installing flooring since 1993 has given the company’s staff many years of experience in both remodels and new construction. Sacramento Area Wood Specialists has built many great relationships over the years and continues to work with many of the area’s investors, Realtors, property managers, retail shops, large area production builders as well as countless homeowners and numerous custom builders — no job is too big or too small.

Best BestSandwich Contractor: Straight Line Construction

Serving the El Dorado County area since 1999, Jack Borba’s commitment to quality and hard work has helped Straight Line Construction grow tremendously in a relatively short time.

4415 Commodity Way, Shingle Springs (916) 985-9995 straightlineconstruction.com

The company now offers residential services for roof replacement and repairs, windows, skylights, gutter systems, decks and siding. Straight Line also offers great customer service, a friendly team and high-quality craftsmanship. The new location offers customers the ability to view product samples, textures and colors in easing their remodeling process. Borba and his team also give back to the community in hosting fundraisers and supporting the food bank.

Back Forty Texas BBQ celebrates 25 years in business this March — a quarter century of serving up fingerlicking barbecue.

3977 Durock Road, Suite 205 Shingle Springs (530) 676-4040 backfortyshinglesprings.com

How does it all come together so tender and tasty?

The pit master starts at 3 a.m. each day, smoking all the meats slowly. The menu includes mouth-watering pork and ribs, barbecue chicken, pulled pork, tri tip, brisket and more. Back Forty’s side items are also cooked fresh daily.

Pair the best barbecued meat with beans, close slaw, Gram’s chili or mac and cheese. Dine in or carry out your meal. Back Forty Texas BBQ also caters.

Owners Jerry and Shelley Cobb and their team put out the best meal they can every day except Mondays — the day the barbecue crew takes a rest.

Best Sandwich Best Roofing: Nail It Roofing

Brothers Aaron and Christopher Meyer entered the roofing trade by working in all capacities — from laborer to superintendent, project manager and estimator.

6188 Enterprise Drive, Suit A Diamond Springs

(530) 677-5032 nail-it-roofing.com

This gives Nail It Roofing customer the advantage of accurate bids and expert management over all aspects of their projects. Nail It Roofing is committed to providing the best possible service with seasoned professionals using the highest-quality products to ensure customers are satisfied with the quality of service. Considering much of their business is obtained through word of mouth, that says a lot.

Best Sandwich Best Financial Planner: Shari Merle, LPL Financial

A resident of El Dorado Hills since 1976, Shari Merle builds relationships that span generations. “I still work with some of my original clients and now I’m working with their kids,” she said, a testament to her ethics, honesty and integrity.

Address: 981 Governor Drive, Suite 101, El Dorado Hills Phone: (916) 933-2117 Website: sharimerle.com

A former tax preparer, Shari offers a unique perspective. “I understand taxes and how they affect your finances,” she explained. She and her son Steve are both Certified Financial Planners and are fully licensed for stocks, bonds and life insurance products. You can rest assured that she will be true to her personal motto, “No matter what, I do what’s right for the client, not for me.”

B6

December 16, 2020

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530-672-TOOL (8665)

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martinstreeservices.com

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Schools • Clubs • Teams Uniforms • Events

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3871 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville

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(916) 712-7856

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Serving our Customers Since 1979

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Placerville Glass Inc.

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Lic#1039193

Shingle Springs

694 Pleasant Valley Road #8 Diamond Springs www.calsunconstruction.com

Pure Life offers a wide variety of alternative medicine for patients Our caring and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with all your medical cannabis needs.

Guess who’s on his way?

Time To Update Your Shower

(530) 677-5700 (916) 933-1522 (855) 424-4481 4070 MOTHERLODE DRIVE SHINGLE SPRINGS

www.shinglespringshonda.com

Custom Frameless Shower Enclosures Featuring Vinyl Windows & Sliding Doors • • • • • •

Commercial Storefront Windows Patio Doors Cabinet Glass Mirrors Fogged or Broken Dual Pane Units • Custom Shower • Custom Shelves

• Wood Stove & Fireplace Glass • Mirrored Closet Doors

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3046 Chapel Street, Placerville One block behind Buttercup Pantry

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You’ll find the widest selection of flowers, clones, safe vape pens, edibles, tinctures & CBD options in El Dorado County!

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