For at least the last five years, interest rates have been at historical lows. Coupled with a housing shortage, these low rates have contributed to an increase in the demand for housing, and this increase in demand has led to an increase in housing prices. Well, things are changing. Rates are rising and so is … Read more
In the Ukiah Valley, we have a lot of Realtors to choose from, so how do you pick the one that’s right for you? Here are some factors to consider. Personality Match In the best of times, it’s nice to have a Realtor you trust and enjoy working with. In the worst of times, having … Read more
During the pandemic, people stayed at home and became more aware of both the benefits and drawbacks of their living space. At the same time, many companies realized they could get as much (or more) productivity from their employees via remote work. Now, as we settle into a post-pandemic normal, the high cost of California … Read more
Simply put, an easement is a right to use someone else’s property. As a property owner, you might grant an easement to allow neighbors to cross your property to get to theirs or to gain access to water lines, wells, or utilities. Many easements were set up decades ago and are no longer useful or … Read more
I’ve had people ask why they need a home inspector and a pest and fungus inspector. Can’t the home inspector just do both reports? In response, I ask: if you went to the optometrist to get your eyes checked, would you expect him to diagnose the bunion on your big toe? No, you wouldn’t. Same … Read more
I was recently talking with Colton Thompson, an entrepreneur who started as a Realtor, then used his real estate knowledge to fuel his successful photography business. Colton is an expert in real estate photography, and not just traditional photos but also drone photography and virtual 3D modeling. The technology he employs allows him to take … Read more
Since fire season is now an annual event, we need to look at neighborhoods differently. How are people reducing risk? Are there exits that will allow people to flee quickly enough in the event of an ever-more-likely wildfire? Since I live in the Ukiah Valley’s eastern hills, I am particularly interested in this area. I … Read more
Spring rains help us reduce the drought—which is good. But they also make it possible for lots of vegetation to grow—which can become fuel for wildfires. Have you hardened your home against wildfire? In the face of a raging fire, there’s nothing any of us can do but evacuate; however, by following the California Fire … Read more
Almost everyone who buys a house needs a home loan. If you’re in the market for a new home and you want to show lenders you’re a safe bet, what should you do? Some answers are obvious. Others, not so much. Basically, lenders want to know how much money you have, how much money you’ll … Read more