Each year, many of us make new year’s resolutions to eat better, exercise more, invest in our relationships, learn a new skill, and lots of other self-improvement activities. Well, I propose we all add one to the list: to shop locally. I know this isn’t a new idea, but with the closing of two School … Read more
When you’re ready to downsize, figuring out what to do with your existing home is often the most difficult decision. The good news is that there are more options than you may realize. Consider the pros and cons of each option before finalizing your decision. Get Roommates While many people strictly recall their college days … Read more
Whether you’re renovating a home in preparation to sell or simply to enjoy living in it, it’s best to go into the process with clear goals in mind. A well-planned project will typically cost less and look better than a rushed job. Sleeping on big decisions is a great way to avoid impulse-buys that leave … Read more
On December 16, 2019, the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors voted 3 to 2 in favor of allowing the Harris Quarry in Willits to expand its operations by increasing its aggregate output and developing an asphalt plant. This has been 15 years in the making. Years ago, opponents of this expansion sued Harris Quarry on … Read more
From the outside looking in, property management seems fairly straightforward. You own a property. You rent it to someone. They agree to stay for an agreed-upon term and take relatively good care of the place. You promise to fix appliances, plumbing and electrical problems should they arise. And everyone lives happily ever after. Except, that’s … Read more
Like scheduling preventive maintenance on your car or going in for an annual physical for your health, it’s hard to get ourselves to spend money on home inspections unless something’s wrong. The only time most of us get home inspections is when we’re trying to sell our property and the inspections are required as part … Read more
You’ve heard the well-worn phrase, “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” Well, this column is about trying to minimize taxes upon your death, so your money and property end up where you want them to go rather than in Uncle Sam’s pocket. If you own a home, you should have a will. It’s as … Read more
I have been contemplating how people can make their homes more marketable in a world where PG&E Planned Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) are now the norm. In the coming years, homes with backup sources of electricity may be more popular than those without. Before we get to those backup options, I’d like to take a … Read more
With climate change, those of us who are homeowners may need to put in extra effort to take care of our houses. Exterior Paint & Siding Ukiah has always had hot summers, but if they get even hotter, exterior paint can’t hold up as well. Look for bubbling, chipping, and flaking paint for surfaces that … Read more