When it comes to making a decision as important as purchasing a home, be sure to base your decision on facts—not myths. Here are a few myths debunked. Myth #1: It’s always better to own than to rent. Not necessarily. When people say owning a home is an investment while renting just throws your money … Read more
As exciting as it can be to buy or sell a property, it can also be a little stressful, even when things are going just fine. There are a lot of details to manage and many different people involved in the transaction, from buyers and sellers and their agents to lenders, inspectors, insurance agents, and … Read more
Having a good relationship with your neighbors can make life far more peaceful and enjoyable, so whenever you contemplate outdoor home projects—whether you’re installing a new deck or hiring someone to install a sprinkler system—it’s wise to consider how those projects will affect the people around you, not only while the project is underway, but … Read more
In 1995, the California State Legislature enacted the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, preventing local governments from enacting rent controls on single-family homes and on housing built after 1995. Rent controls limit how much landlords can charge their tenants. Proposition 10 would repeal the Costa-Hawkins legislation, thereby allowing local governments to adopt rent control ordinances without … Read more
As I was driving into town to come to work this morning, I noticed the weeds growing up in the median strip on Perkins Street near the Hwy 101 onramp and offramp. I’ve noticed these weed for weeks and they irritate me. If you checked the median near Hwy 101 on Gobbi Street, I expect … Read more
In my office, we have a list of individuals and organizations we won’t do business with—most are vendors, others are past clients who behaved so poorly we won’t work with them again. The reasons vendors get put on the list can include things like doing substandard work, having no liability insurance or workers’ comp insurance, … Read more
Home ownership isn’t right for everyone, but it can be a great investment and provide a huge sense of satisfaction. Before you cross home ownership off your list because you don’t think you can afford it, let me tell you what it takes. The median house price in the Ukiah Valley is about $425,000. Since … Read more
Ukiah is my hometown and I love living here. I know it’s not perfect, but no place is. One of the many things I enjoy about Ukiah is our unique sense of community. Last fall and again this summer, when fires threatened local homes, Ukiahans came together in truly remarkable ways. According to the logistics … Read more
Buying real estate is one of the biggest investments you’re likely to make. As such, mortgage lenders have to make sure you can afford what you’re buying. Here are some things you can do to improve your chances of qualifying for a loan. YOUR MORTGAGE TO-DO LIST DO provide your lender with your homeowner insurance agent’s … Read more