Technology requires a human touch

When people become interested in the real estate market, they often start online, perusing one of the myriad digital sites—from databases like Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin to broker and REALTOR websites to media publications. These can be a good place to start, but when you get serious about buying or selling real estate, these online … Read more


Ready to Make an Offer?

Buying a house can be so exciting. Once you think you’re ready to make an offer, here are some ways to ensure the process goes smoothly. Are you sure this is right for you? Choosing a home requires a balance of intellectual reasoning and emotional attachment. If it’s a smart decision but your heart’s not … Read more


Laws that affect landlords

As we look ahead to 2025, we see a number of new laws hitting the books, many of which expand tenant rights. On the face of it, these laws may seem innocuous, but each time a new regulation is enacted, there’s often a cost, though it may be hidden. If you own investment property, you … Read more


Is the house you want to buy haunted?

With Halloween right around the corner, this seemed like a good time to discuss how to determine whether you’re about to buy a haunted house. Although I suppose any home could be haunted, the best ghost stories usually involve old mansions. As it happens, the Ukiah Valley has quite a few properties dating back to … Read more


Why is homeowners’ insurance suddenly so expensive?

If you look at the top ten most destructive fires in California history according to the Western Fire Chief’s Association, you’ll notice almost all of them occurred in last five years or so. August Complex in Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, Tehama, Glenn, Lake, and Colusa counties, August 2020: 1,032,648 acres burned, 935 structures destroyed, 1 death … Read more


Accessory Dwelling Units Gain Popularity

Last year, one out of every five homes built in California was an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU. Just three years ago, the rate was half that. While Ukiah’s increase hasn’t been as dramatic as the statewide surge, we have seen an uptick. Here’s why. In places like the San Francisco Bay Area, much of … Read more