Real Estate Guide_Spring 3.15.19

ESTATE REAL G U I D E THE PRESS

MARCH 15, 2019

BRENTWOOD! GOLD MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: REAL ESTATE AGENT: JAMIE CONNORS

BRENTWOOD!

SILVER MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: REAL ESTATE GOLD TEAM:MEDAL CONNORS TEAM AWARD RECIPIENT:

REALAWARD ESTATERECIPIENT: AGENT: JAMIE CONNORS GOLD MEDAL REAL ESTATE OFFICE: DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: SILVER REAL ESTATE TEAM: CONNORS TEAM GOLD MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT:

I want to express a huge Jamie REALConnors ESTATE OFFICE: DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP

Realtor® 925.956.9654

THANK YOU for the support

Brentwood has shown to me, to

DRE 01884281 Jamie

the Connors Team, to Dudum I wantand to express a huge Connors

Real Estate THANK Group! YOU We could not for the support Realtor® without and Brentwood has you, shown to me, to 925.956.9654 have succeeded

BRENTWOOD! BRENTWOOD! the Connors and to Dudum to serveTeam, our beloved DRE 01884281 we will strive RealRECIPIENT: Estate Group!

GOLD MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: GOLDcommunity MEDAL AWARD for many yearsWe to could A PROUD MEMBER OF DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP DRE#01882902 REAL ESTATE AGENT: JAMIE CONNORS REAL ESTATE AGENT: JAMIE CONNORS have succeeded without you,

not

and come. Thanks so much!

SILVER MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: SILVER MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: we will strive to serve our beloved REAL ESTATE TEAM: CONNORS TEAM REAL ESTATE TEAM: CONNORS TEAM community for many years to GOLD MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: GOLD MEDAL AWARD RECIPIENT: Dudum Real Estate Group is honored to receive the come. Thanks so much!

A PROUD MEMBER OF DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP DRE#01882902

REAL ESTATE OFFICE: DUDUM REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE GROUPOFFICE: DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP Photo by Bridget Homer

Best of Brentwood’s Gold Award for Best Office.

We want to thank the city of Brentwood and the Dudum Real Estate Jamie Group is honored to receive the Jamie Connors Connors ® ® part of their surrounding area for welcoming us as Realtor Realtor Best of Brentwood’s Gold Award for Best Office.

925.956.9654 925.956.9654 business community and for making our of first few yearsand the We want to thank the city Brentwood DRE 01884281 DRE 01884281 here so wonderfully successful. love being of of their surrounding area forWe welcoming uspart as part the community, andcommunity know it’s the hereour that business and people for making first few years make Brentwood such an amazing placeWe to live! here so wonderfully successful. love being part or of Whether you’re buying, selling,

I’m here for all your REAL ESTATE NEEDS!

the community, and knowI it’s people that investing, canthe guide youhere through make Brentwood such an amazing placetoday to live!at the process.

Learn more

A PROUD MEMBER OF DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP DRE#01882902

R MEDAL VE AWARD

MEDAL LD AWARD

GO

SIL

2018 2018

A PROUD MEMBER OF DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP DRE#01882902

www.connorsrealestateteam.com

DRE#01882902

BRENTWOOD OFFICE: 60 Eagle Rock Way, #B, Brentwood, CA 94513 DRE#01882902 BRENTWOOD OFFICE: 60 Eagle Rock Way, #B, Brentwood, CA 94513

2B

|

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

To buy or not to buy? Real estate in 2019

It’s not such a seller’s market as it was. It’s putting the buyer back in the driver’s seat as far as being able to negotiate.

DAWNMARIE FEHR

T

he real estate market can be difficult to follow at the best of times. Over the past

decade it’s been chaotic and unpredictable, but steadily rising home prices in the last several years have more

– Jim Graydon

people investing their money — and

All Phase Brokers

their confidence — in the market.

Most real estate agents will tell you that summer is the best time to list a house, but not Jamie Connors with Connors Real Estate Team in Brentwood. She says spring can be the best time to sell a house.

“Everything looks really lovely in the spring,” Connors explained. “Everything is in bloom and the weather is great.”

Shrubs and trees accentuated by a smattering of flowers can increase the curb appeal of a home. Chris Sasville, owner of Sasville Properties, said that, in addition to nature’s beauty, a little TLC can go a long way toward enticing buyers through the front door.

“I’m a firm believer that detail stuff like shutters, doors and garage doors, should all be freshly painted with an up-to-date color,” Sasville said.

Along with home prices, interest rates have

also risen. Though they have tapered off slightly this year, it’s enough to price some buyers out of the market. This will result in fewer offers for sellers, but those offers should still meet or exceed listing price, according to experts.

Jim Graydon of All Phase Brokers has some advice for anyone thinking about placing an offer on a home: “My number one piece of advice is to always have your credit analyzed, because you want to make sure that there’s nothing on your report preventing you from getting your loan approved when you are making your offer.”

He added that with the recently lowered

PLEASE WELCOME OUR NEWEST LOAN OFFICERS

ROB O’MALLEY

DANNY MULVANNY

(925) 584-4721

(925) 212-2266

Loan Officer NMLS ID# 256715

angelic.hetrick@summitfunding.net

ALEX COONS

Director of Business Development NMLS ID# 1055487

teamomalley@summitfunding.net

PEGGY VALLEY

(925) 634-6600

Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 221369 | CA DRE ID# 01000599

peggy.valley@summitfunding.net

interest rates, it’s a good time to buy.

“It’s not such a seller’s market as it was,” Graydon said. “It’s putting the buyer back in the driver’s seat as far as being able to negotiate.”

According to some real estate bloggers, demand for new-construction homes is expected to increase for 2019, so expect to pay more for them. East County has several new neighborhoods going up, from multiple home builders. From Shea Homes’ large active-adult community in Brentwood, to Kiper Homes’ charming single-stories in Discovery Bay, there’s something for everyone.

Another hot topic among real estate experts? Millennial home buyers: Will they or won’t they?

Many experts are saying that this is the year millennials will lead the market in home purchases, beating out both Gen Xers and baby boomers. And that the “me” generation will shop for a home like they do everything else: online. Sellers would be wise to invest in good listing photos and video tours.

The Connors Real Estate Team can be reached at 925-956-9654, by email at homesbyjamie@comcast.net or online at www.connorsrealestateteam.com.

Sasville Properties can be reached at 925-513-4483, or www.sasvilleproperties.com.

All Phase Brokers can be reached at 925-584-9886 or at www.allphasebrokers. com.

ANGELIC HETRICK

Branch Manager / Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 240904 | CA DRE ID# 01423655

(925) 418-3951

MARCH 15, 2019

MICHAEL BOTELHO

Loan Officer NMLS ID# 773396

danny.mulvanny@summitfunding.net

COYNDA LOZANO

Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 245711

Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 242505 | CA DRE ID# 01755157

acoons@summitfunding.net

michael.bothelho@summitfunding.net

coynda.lozano@summitfunding.net

GEORGE MUNOZ

ERIC SANCHEZ

BRIAN WIEBER

(925) 634-6600

Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 252207

(925) 418-3936

george.munoz@summitfunding.net Hablo Español

(925) 354-6633

Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 342496

(925) 418-3752

eric.sanchez@summitfunding.net Hablo Español

(925) 584-4824 Hablo Español

Sr. Loan Officer NMLS ID# 243294

(510) 964-0621

bwieber@summitfunding.net

141 Sand Creek Road, Suite C Brentwood, CA 94513 | Branch NMLS ID# 880995 | 3088 Pinole Valley Rd. Pinole, CA 94564 | Branch NMLS ID# 1151809 | Summit Funding, Inc. NMLS ID# 3199 | An Approved Equal Housing Lender

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 15, 2019

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

3B

|

Making a difference one client at a time regret is that she didn’t start sooner.

“I love my job, the whole process, I just love it,” Connors said. “No two transactions are alike. I take something different away from each one.”

Connor’s background in investment banking served her well when she switched career tracks to real estate in 2003. She brought her attention to detail and love of the game to helping people find their dream homes. Four years ago, she and her team joined the Dudum Real Estate Group in Brentwood.

“Jamie is so good,” said Julie Del Santo, broker and owner of Dudum Real Estate. “She is one hundred percent about the client, with class and positive networking with other agents. She is consistently a top agent, not just in terms of sales volume, but in terms of integrity, ON THE COVER: Jamie Connors and her team, are seasoned professionals who work hard for their clients before, during and after the process. Photo by Bridget Homer.

We Make House Calls.

– Jamie Connors

Photo courtesy of Jamie Connors

Jamie Connors is with Dudum Real Estate Group in Brentwood and works to guide clients through the real estate process with expertise and ease. and communication. She and her team work hard to provide their clients with the best real estate experience in the area. Their goal is to get their clients to “key day” with a big smile on their faces.

“I love the win of finding a house for my first-time buyers,” she said. “Key day, when we hand our clients the keys to their new home, is a happy day, even when you

Find Out INSTANTLY What Your Home is Worth: www.FreeEastCountyHomeValues.com

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS! Almost ½ acre lot within the city limits of Brentwood but with a country feel. No rear neighbors and a nursery next door. Utilities close by. Seller financing available.

GORGEOUS AND IMMACULATE! Lovingly upgraded and maintained! Granite slab counters, stainless appliances, gorgeous floors, base crown and custom framed windows. 3 bed + loft + bonus room.

GORGEOUS 1S REMODEL W/ POOL! Extensive remodel including kitchen with custom cabinets, baths, HVAC, roof, windows, flooring, lighting & plumbing fixtures. Beautiful pool w/ faux rock waterfall.

$165,000

$539,900

$549,900

Lynn Valintis – (925) 699-9278 Brentwood

ADVERTISING

We know managing your rental property can often mean being on-call 24 hours a day. That’s why we’ve developed a full-service property management system and professional team of experts designed to make owning property easy and more profitable!

TENANT SCREENING

Visit AMeadowsPropertyManagement.com to get started today and learn more about how our full range of services can give you more freedom and increase your property revenue!

ACCOuNTING

FREE

Consultation and HoMe evaluation!

www.ameadowspropertymanagement.com

LEASE NEGOTIATIONS RENT COLLECTION MONThLy DISbuRSEMENTS

ONE-STORY ON CORNER LOT! Granite slab counters, tile floors, two-tone interior paint. 4 true bedrooms downstairs plus large loft with custom bookshelves/library.

Brian Sharp – (925) 998-9712 Brentwood

SUMMERSET STUNNER! BEAUTIFUL HOME ON THE GOLF COURSE! Cute single story home with two bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms and an office! Don’t miss this one!

MT. DIABLO VIEW & POOL! End of court location, no rear neighbors, view of Mt. Diablo and lovely pebble tec pool and spa!

Junior Master downstairs. Over 3,300 sq. ft.

$559,900

$719,900

Jodi Marfia – (925) 354-8919 Brentwood

Brian Sharp – (925) 998-9712 Brentwood

www.SharpHomesOnline.com

Brian Sharp

REpAIRS

DRE #1311126

Brian Sharp – (925) 998-9712 Brentwood

FOR VIRTUAL TOURS OF THESE HOMES AND TO SEARCH THE MLS:

MAINTENANCE

Call Now! (925) 625-7975

$549,900

Brian Sharp – (925) 998-9712 Brentwood

MEDAL LD AWARD

20 2 166

998-9712

#O1245186

MEDAL LD AWARD

R MEDA VE AWARD

20 2 133 2013 L

pROFESSIONAL. QuALITy. SERVICES.

have transactions that don’t go the way you hoped they would. When we get to that day, it’s like none of that happened.

Everyone is happy and it’s just a good day.”

When Connors isn’t handing over a set of keys, she is volunteering at her son’s school or attending community events. Connors chose Brentwood as her hometown because of its wholesome environment and busy calendar.

“I love Brentwood, it’s such a beautiful town,” she said. “I love the small-town feel and the family community.”

Connors lives in Brentwood with her husband of 25 years and their son.

For more information, contact the Connors Real Estate Team at 925-956-9654, by email at homesbyjamie@comcast.net, or online at www.connorsrealestateteam.com.

GO

estate for 16 years, and her only

I love my job, the whole process, I just love it. No two transactions are alike. I take something different away from each one.

GO

J

amie Connors has been in real

passion and skill. And she makes what’s an intimidating and crazy process in our roller coaster of an industry, fun.”

Connors believes that getting to know her clients helps her to serve them better.

She works hard to make them feel like friends and family, not just customers.

“When you help someone find a house, you are with them for at least 45 days, so you get to know them,” explained Connors. “I don’t separate my business and my personal life; my business is my personal life. These clients become like family.”

Connors has had the honor of many repeat clients during her time as an agent.

Kristle Jones is one such client. Connors helped Jones and her husband find their first home in Brentwood, and five years later, Jones called on Connors to sell their home. Connors went above and beyond, even helping the couple find and purchase a new home in Southern California.

“Jamie is pretty amazing,” Jones said.

“You feel like you are the only one she is working for when you are with her. My husband and I call her the ‘dream maker,’ because whatever you want, she just makes it happen. And she doesn’t forget about you the second you have closed. She kept checking in on us and referred clients to my business, and just made us feel connected.

She makes you feel like family.”

Connors is a big believer in networking

SIL

DAWNMARIE FEHR

#1 for Brentwood listings sold multiple times over the last 15 years

Nicole Tschemeff 565-8336

Joan Carter 354-2001

Lynn Valintis Glenn Huxtable 699-9278

437-5247

Jodi Marfia 354-8919

Darius Sarkari 497-6490

Julie Gonzalez 219-5044

Steve Gursky 584-8708

4B

|

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

MARCH 15, 2019

Understanding the home inspection process DAWNMARIE FEHR

M

ark Beck has been inspecting homes for 17 years. As someone who

takes great pride in what he does, Beck has worked hard to build a reputation for honesty and reliability in East County. Originally, Beck owned a contracting company in Ohio, but once he moved to California, he spent several years working in the tech industry before deciding to go back into business for himself in Brentwood where he founded Home Inspections Plus.

“One of my clients had once asked me to come and do a home inspection in Cincinnati,” said Beck. “I remembered I liked it, so I went and got myself certified and I’ve been doing it since.”

Most of Beck’s business is related to real estate transactions. Either a buyer or their agent will reach out to Beck to schedule a home inspection, and he will come out and look at the whole

building, from foundation to roofing and everything in between. He also inspects pools, because, in January of 2017, state law changed to require that inspectors comment on safety enclosures around pools on properties. Once his visual inspection is done, he prepares a detailed report for his customers so they can be aware of any issues he has found.

“From a buyer’s standpoint, the home inspection is information for them so they know exactly what they are getting,” explained Beck. “I encourage people to go to the inspection and talk to their inspector and Realtor.”

Beck added that he welcomes his clients’ attendance at his inspection of their potential home, and let’s them know he’s willing to go over any issues he comes across.

Jenni Sorrick, a realtor with Cal Bay Realty in Brentwood, has been calling on Beck to inspect her clients’ homes for ten years. She said she and her customers often attend the inspections.

“Mark does a very thorough job,” Sorrick said. “He’s someone that I’ve always liked to meet at the property (with my clients) because he’s always really good about going over things he finds.

He’s not just a hard worker, but a really good guy. He’s very honest and does a

Sellers may decide to get a home inspected before putting it on the market so they know what problems they are dealing with and can choose to repair items or not.

With the exception of a few items, most items aren’t required (to be fixed) for the sale of a home.

– Mark Beck, Home Inspections Plus thorough job.”

Though most of his clientele are looking to purchase a home, Beck also gets calls from homeowners who are considering putting their house on the

market.

“Sellers may decide to get a home inspected before putting it on the market so they know what problems they are dealing with and can choose to repair items or not,” said Beck. “With the exception of a few items, most items aren’t required (to be fixed) for the sale of a home.”

Though home inspections are required in almost all home sales, home inspectors themselves are not regulated by the state; there’s no licensing procedure and just about anyone can call themself a “home inspector.” Beck cautioned that price isn’t always the best barometer to use when choosing someone to check out your future abode.

“I’ve had people call me and say that (other inspectors) will do it for less, but I know that they aren’t always doing a great job,” Beck said. “Don’t make a decision about who to use for an inspector based on price. Due to a lack of regulations, you can get a poor inspector who will miss leaks or other issues. Then you wonder what you paid for.”

For more information, call Home Inspections Plus at 925-240-0441, email them at m.beck@localinspector.com, or visit their website at www.localinspector. com.

Large Enough to Serve You, Small Enough to Know You! FAIRVIEW HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. Service • Repair • Installation

We have our own line of AMERICAN assembled HVAC equipment that comes with 10 year parts and labor warranties standard and we give a 1 year money back guarantee on all HVAC replacements.

3us1insetss

B Anniversary

925-625-4963

Fax 925-625-7816 100-A Brownstone Road, Oakley, CA 94561 Contractor’s Lic. #533790 C-20

HVAC Repair

FREE

ESTIMATES

HVAC Replacement

HVAC Maintenance

ON FURNACE AND A/C REPLACEMENTS

Indoor Air Quality

HOME OF THE

$49

After $50 Mail-in Rebate.

Expires 6-30-19.

A/C OR FURNACE

TUNE-UP

See our web site for money saving coupons!

www.fairviewair.com

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 15, 2019

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

Why it’s smart to have a smart home

D

recent visual networking index forecast from Cisco, by 2021 there will be four

networked devices and connections per person across the globe. Those figures are even greater in North America, where Cisco estimates each person will have 13 networked devices and connections by 2021.

cooling units while away from home. That means they can arrive each night to a comfortable home without having to run their HVAC systems all day while no one is home. In fact, the CNET/Coldwell Banker survey found 45 percent of Americans say that smart home products save them an average of $98.30 each month.

With all those devices, it’s no surprise that a greater number of people are embracing the smart home movement. Those who have yet to jump on the smart home bandwagon can benefit from learning more about them, and why it’s intelligent to have a smart home.

Investment:

What is a smart home?

According to SmartHomeUSA.com, the term “smart home” is commonly used to define residences in which appliances, lighting, heating and cooling units, televisions, computers, entertainment systems and security systems are capable of communicating with one another. Each of these components can be controlled remotely, typically via a smartphone.

Why is it smart to have a smart home?

Time:

A recent joint survey from CNET and Coldwell Banker found that 57 percent of Americans say that smart home technology saves them an average of 30 minutes per day.

That’s an especially beneficial advantage for busy parents and/or professionals who find it difficult to juggle all of their daily responsibilities.

Money:

The benefits of a smart home are numerous, and will likely only multiply as people utilize more devices.

Another benefit to smart homes is their cost savings.

Because devices can be controlled remotely, smart home owners can adjust the temperatures on their heating and

Whether you’re a developer or a single-family homeowner, real estate is an investment. Making a home as appealing as possible to prospective buyers is a great way to get a better return on your real estate investment.

The CNET/Coldwell Banker survey found that 81 percent of buyers would be more likely to buy a home if smart home products were already installed. That can make the market for your home more competitive, ultimately earning you more money at resale.

Smart homes are both the present and the future.

Homeowners who want to make their homes more livable today and more marketable tomorrow should consider investing in smart home products.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

www.sasvilleproperties.com

WANT TO KNOW YOUR OPTIONS? CALL US FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS, TODAY!!! (925) 513-4483 COMING SOON

FOR SALE

REDUCED

FOR SALE Chris Sasville (925) 998-6227

Craig Sasville (925) 550-6447

Broker/Owner CAL BRE# 01746093

CAL BRE# 01433799

Karen Muccio (925) 548-8641

Owner CAL BRE# 01806829

4893 Cabrillo Pt., Discovery Bay Gorgeous remodel! Highly desirable single story, close to fast water…

Call for Price & Info.

CAL BRE# 01153943

Presented by Chris & Craig Sasville

Max Austin (925) 550-0199

FOR SALE

221 Whitman Ct., Discovery Bay 3159 Castle Rock Loop, Discovery Bay 2127 Prestwick Dr., Discovery Bay Rare Single Story 4 BD in highly sought after Raven- Stunning Remodel in DBGCC. Close to the club house Beautiful Meritage home in gated Lakeshore swood. Open floor plan w/ Kitchen/ Family combo. community!

Open floor plan, kitchen newer granite & just off the 15th fairway. Features include kitchen Close to parks, schools & shopping. Commuters counter tops, formal dining & full BD & BA on lower w/ new quartz counters, ss appliances, new cabinets, enjoy proximity to ACE train, BART & major freeways. level. Perfect for in-law w/ sep garage entry. Upstairs wine fridge & pantry. Custom fireplace is the focal ACTIVE, FUN community offers life on the Delta, master, 4 additional BD, bonus room. OWNED boating, fishing, jet skiing, & restaurants. MUST SEE! point in the well appointed family room w/ wet bar. solar. Pool & hot tub w/ retractable electric awning. $689,000. Presented by Craig Sasville $559,000. Presented by Chris & Craig Sasville $689,900. Presented by Cathy Engle

LOT FOR SALE

YOUR OWN PRIVATE ISLAND!

GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

CAL BRE# 01720106

Alisa Ortiz-Proft (925) 323-2216 CAL BRE# 01222446

Cathy Engle (925) 570-6667 CAL BRE# 01891985

Linda Sepulveda (510) 432-2770 CAL BRE# 01221706

5B

Homeowners who want to make their homes more livable today and more marketable tomorrow should consider investing in smart home products.

evices are everywhere. According to a

Alison Watts (925) 550-9311

|

Bryon Gutow (925) 437-3529 CAL BRE# 01430026

Sandy Strobel (925) 766-3791 CAL BRE# 01828196

Laura Call (925) 667-8127 CAL BRE# 01440006

5501 Starboard Ct. Single story lake home at end of cul de sac. Huge 9801sq ft lot. Incredible water/island views from your private deck. The home has a brand new foundation, freshly painted on the interior, dual pane windows & sliders throughout and a newer HVAC system. $610,000. Presented by Bryon Gutow

6980 Orwood Rd., Knightsen 5135 Discovery Pt., Discovery Bay Own a 5 Acre Delta island! Near Cruiser Haven LIVE WHERE YOU PLAY, DISCOVERY BAY! One of Marina & the Orwood train bridge. Features the Few Prime Lots left on Deep Water in Discovery approx. 100 ft boat dock. “Martin Island” was a Bay with Grandfathered in Boat House, this is an Opportunity to Build Your Custom Dream Home on private residence, but is now vacant land. Could be utilized for ski club, camp sites, only limit is your The Delta! This lot is minutes to Fast Water and imagination! (check with County for additional info located on desirable Lido Bay! on uses). PG&E available. Owner may carry. Call $389,900.

Presented by Chris & Craig Sasville For Price & Info. Chris Sasville 925 998-6429

4391 Briar Cliff Rd., Oakland One of the few remaining View lots in the Sequoyah Hills, 1/2 acre bordered by single family homes & trees! *Adjacent to the new Oak Knoll development (oakknollcommunity.com) w/ hiking/ biking trails, community center & 72,000 sq ft of retail w/ shops & restaurants. Survey, Study & Site Plan Completed.

“Modern Farmhouse” plans available . Call for info! $375,000. Presented by Karen Muccio

1555 Riverlake Rd., Ste. M, Discovery Bay (925) 513-4483 www.sasvilleproperties.com

Christine Wallin (925) 525-7402 CAL BRE# 01475112

Julie Harris (408) 835-7415 CAL BRE# 01741631

Grace Milne (925) 980-6014 CAL BRE# 00950602

6B

|

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

MARCH 15, 2019

Small kitchen upgrades make a big difference

M

any homeowners wish for expansive kitchens.

Modernized kitchens

that include sought-after features and showcase the latest trends go a long way to improving the overall value of a home.

As desirable as such kitchens may be, some homes simply don’t have enough space for a centerfold-worthy kitchen featuring an island, wine refrigerator and walk-in pantry. However, homeowners with small kitchens can still improve the form and function of their existing spaces.

Reconfigure and revamp cabinetry Homeowners with small kitchens often lament their lack of storage. Redesigning the layout of cabinets and possibly adding some more cabinetry may take care of certain storage issues. The experts at Merit Kitchens suggest improving corner space utilization with LeMans units, lazy susans and other gadgets to make access to these areas easier.

Going vertical with wall cabinets that extend to the ceiling can add more storage, as can roll-in work carts.

Work with the walls Small kitchens require clever usage of vertical space. Vertical storage units, hooks, shelving and more can move items out of drawers and off of counters.

Consider an under-the-cabinet toaster oven and microwave to create more counter space.

Use scaled-down appliances Shop with size in mind when looking at new appliances if you have a small kitchen. Compact versions won’t take up as much space as larger alternatives.

Homeowners should consider the ultimate function of the kitchen and then think about which appliances will serve them well. Homeowners with small kitchens may not need a large stand mixer or an oversized commercial stove.

Add some glass The DIY Network recommends incorporating glass to improve the perception of space in small kitchens. Glass lets you see through the objects, thereby enhancing the feeling of spaciousness or what designers call “negative space.”

Glass can be reflective, as well, visually expanding the space.

FREE MOLD ASSESSMENT AND ROOF INSPECTION WITH EVERY HOME EXAMINATION

$50 OFF

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Small kitchens can be culinary havens with the right improvements to maximize the space.

Embrace high-end materials It costs less to renovate small spaces than bigger areas, so homeowners may

be able to afford high-end materials that really add personality to a kitchen.

Flooring, counter materials and quality fixtures can really set small kitchens apart.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

George Muñoz | Sr. Mortgage Consultant George is professional and very knowledgeable about many different types of loans, he always wants to get his clients the best deal possible and goes out of his way to make sure clients are taken care of. I highly recommend using his services.

Whole Home Inspection with this ad.

11th

Month NEW HOME Warranty Inspection Call for details!

Professional Property Inspection Services Including: Annual Maintenance • Sewer Lateral • Health and Safety for Seniors Thermal Imaging • Pools and Spas • Mold and Abestos Testing Termite • Pre-Purchase

Mark Beck Certified Master Inspector 925-240-0441 www.localinspector.com

Proudly serving Brentwood and East County since 2002!

NMLS ID# 252207

Jorge es muy professional en su tratamiento y le explica el proceso en detaile.

Office: (925) 634-6600 (Ext: 4772) Direct: (925) 418-3936 Cell: (925) 437-9520 george.munoz@summitfunding.net www.summitfunding.net

®

NMLS ID# 3199

MARCH 15, 2019

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

|

7B

Outdoor improvements can boost home value

W

First and foremost, speak to a local real estate agent who is knowledgeable about trends in the community. While a swimming pool may be a coveted feature in one area, it may impede sales in another.

hether home improvement projects are designed to improve the

interior or exterior of a house, focusing on renovations that make the most financial sense can benefit homeowners in the long run. The right renovations can be assets, if and when homeowners decide to sell their homes.

So how does one get started? First and foremost, speak to a local real estate agent who is knowledgeable about trends in the community. While a swimming pool may be a coveted feature in one area, it may impede sales in another. It also helps to study generalized trends and data from various home improvement industry analysts to guide upcoming projects.

The following outdoor projects are just a few renovations that tend to add value: Fire pit: A fire pit is a great place to gather most months of the year. Bob Vila and CBS News report that a fire pit realizes a 78 percent return on investment (ROI).

Outdoor kitchen: Many buyers are looking to utilize their yards as an extension of interior

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Many different outdoor projects can add value to a home. living areas. Cooking, dining and even watching TV outdoors is increasingly popular. Outdoor living areas can be custom designed and built. In addition, prefabricated modular units that require a much smaller commitment of time and money are available.

Patio: Homeowners who do not already have a patio will find that adding one can increase a home’s value. Patios help a home look neat, add useable space and may help a home to sell quickly. The

experts at Space Wise, a division of Extra Space Storage, say that projects such as refinishing, repairing and building a new patio offer strong ROI. Deck: Decks can be as valuable as patios.

A deck is another outdoor space that can be used for entertaining, dining and more.

Remodeling Magazine’s 2018 “Cost vs.

Value” report indicates that an $11,000 deck can add about $9,000 in resale value to the home, recouping around 82 percent of the project’s costs.

Door update: Improve curb appeal with a new, high-end front door and garage doors.

If that’s too expensive, a good cleaning and new coat of paint can make an old door look brand new. These easy fixes can instantly improve a home’s look.

New landscaping: The National Association of Realtors says an outdoor makeover that includes well-thought-out landscaping can net 105 percent ROI. Installing a walkway, adding stone planters, mulching, and planting shrubs are ideas to consider.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

Contra Costa Blinds Today’s Window Fashions at a Price You Can Afford!

■ Design Consultations ■ In-Home Consultations ■ Free Estimates

Call today for a free in-home consultation

925.418.2868

www.ContraCostaBlinds.com

FREE Temporary Shades

With all New Window Covering Purchases.

With this ad. Good thru 9/1/19

8B

|

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

REAL ESTATE OFFICES AND AGENTS

James W. Graydon All Phase Brokers (925) 584-9886 1145 Second St., Brentwood jwgraydon@aol.com www.AllPhaseBrokers.com BRE #01236065 NMLS #995241

MARCH 15, 2019

MORTGAGE AND LOAN Maureen Prince Broker® Flat Rate Realty (510) 882-1030 Maureen@MaureenPrince.com www.1percentListings.net BRE #01196634 Jeff Gray Realtor® Associate Flat Rate Realty (408) 663-0196 JGray5055@Yahoo.com www.1percentListings.net BRE #02005431

Donna Brady Boland, GRI Drysdale Properties Senior Real Estate Specialist Pricing Strategy Advisor First Time Buyer Specialist Broker Associate Realtor® Serving the entire Bay Area Cell/Text: (925) 323-7570 donna.boland@bhhsdrysdale.com www.AskDonna4EBProperty.com CalDRE# 01063858

Tom Schieber Realtor®, Broker Associate J. Rockcliff Realtors (925) 487-3172 Tom@TomSchieber.com www.TomSchieber.com CalDRE #01404116

Susan Redgrave Realtor® Dudum Real Estate Group (925) 483-3294 60 Eagle Rock Way Brentwood susan@dudum.com www.RedgraveRealty.com Cal BRE #01997935

Dianna Dunbar Keller Williams 925-783-0111 diannadpeete@gmail.com 201 N. Civic Dr., Ste. 130 Walnut Creek CA 94596 CalDRE #01838069 Fax: 925-934-3422

Patrick McCarran Broker CalDRE #01325072 925-899-5536 cell www.CallPatrick.com pmccarran@yahoo.com

Chris Sasville Owner Cal BRE #01806829 (925) 998-6227 1555 Riverlake Road Discovery Bay chris@sasvilleproperties.com www.SasvilleProperties.com Craig Sasville Broker/Owner Cal BRE #01746093 (925) 550-6447 1555 Riverlake Road Discovery Bay craig@sasvilleproperties.com www.SasvilleProperties.com Sandy Strobel Realtor® (925) 766-3791 1555 Riverlake Road, Suite M Discovery Bay www.SandyStrobel.com DRE #01828196

WHO’S WHO

IN THE BIZ!

James W. Graydon All Phase Brokers (925) 584-9886 1145 Second St. Brentwood jwgraydon@aol.com www.AllPhaseBrokers.com BRE #01236065 NMLS #995241

Real Estate, Mortgage, Loan, and Property Management Professionals

Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True!

A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

Rob O’Malley Branch Manager (925) 234-8870 teamomalley@summitfunding.net www.summitfunding.net/romalley 141 Sand Creek Road, Bwd NMLS ID# 240904 CA BRE ID# 01423655 George Muñoz Senior Mortgage Consultant Hablo Español (925) 437-9520 George.Munoz@Summitfunding.net www.summitfunding.net/gmunoz 141 Sand Creek Road, Bwd NMLS ID# 252207 Peggy Ann Valley, MBA Senior Mortgage Consultant (925) 890-5255 peggy.valley@summitfunding.net www.peggyvalley.com 141 Sand Creek Road, Bwd NMLS ID# 221369 CA BRE ID# 01000599

Beth Miller-Rowe Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist 3478 Buskirk Ave., Suite 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (925) 969-0380 office (925) 381-8264 cell Beth@YourReverse.com www.YourReverse.com NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 BRE: 00950759/01215943

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Renee Parrett Senior Financial Advisor 1115 Second St., Bwd (925) 513-6004 renee.c.parrett@wellsfargo.com www.wellsfargoadvisors.com CA Insurance #0C92754

Patrick McCarran Broker CalDRE #01325072 925-899-5536 cell www.CallPatrick.com pmccarran@yahoo.com

PRE BUILT AD - CONVERTED SPOT COLORS TO CMYK. ADDED STROKE IN INDESIGN.

WE OFFER GREAT HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE RATES! • Auto • Home • Motorcycle • RV

We’ll pass along great discounts for umbrella policies!

• Boat & Yacht • Recreational Vehicles • Special Insurance Needs (special events, earthquake & flood, jewelry, etc.)

PERSONAL INSURANCE

Policy Rivers gent! in w T Your with an A s Come

Remember the days when you called your insurance agent and someone actually answered the phone? Call us and be reminded.

AGENCY, INC.

“Your Home, Auto & Boat Specialists”

Dale Manning, Agent

Over 45 years experience in the Home/Auto insurance business Lic. #0G87207

(925) 777-2180 • 7 Marina Plaza, Antioch Visit us at our beautiful Rivertown Marina location! www.TwinRiversInsuranceAgency.com Mon.-Fri. 8:30 am - 5:00pm or by appointment

COMING SOON

FOR SALE

706 San Juan Oaks Rd, Brentwood

573 La Sata Dr, Brentwood

5 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 4,300 +/- sq ft

5 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 3,090 +/- sq ft

CALL FOR A PRIVATE SHOWING

LISTED AT $679,950

FOR SALE

JUST SOLD

1925 Sofia Way, Brentwood

1847 St. Michaels Way, Brentwood

4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 3,593 +/- sq ft

4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 3,785 +/- sq ft

LISTED AT$829,950

SOLD for $876,000

Who you work with MATTERS! Tom’s experience in your local neighborhood gives you the advantage when buying or selling here in East County!

TOM SCHIEBER REAL ESTATE Broker Associate | DRE# 01404116

925.487.3172

Tom@TomSchieber.com www.TomSchieber.com

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 15, 2019

Building futures

Photo by Tony Kukulich

N

ationally-recognized experts on homebuilding and renovation Morris and James Carey, known as the Carey Bros., brought Festool, an Indiana-based power tool company, to Future Build in Pittsburg on Friday, March 8. The Carey Bros. recorded their weekly radio program, “On the House” at the event and interviewed Future Build student Juanita Smith, left. The Brentwood residents will also be hosting a remodeling seminar Saturday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Brentwood Senior Activity Center, 193 Griffith Lane, Brentwood. For more information, call 877-734-6404. To view more photos of the event, visit www.thepress.net/multimedia/slideshows

REAL ESTATE

Drysdale Properties

Donna Boland, GRI, Broker Associate Let me earn your Trust…

As a Broker Associate with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Drysdale Properties, I assist my clients with every aspect of a Real Estate transaction, from start to finish. Whether you are buying or selling, upsizing or downsizing, or looking for an investment property, I am here to help.

I pride myself on my integrity and strong work ethic. My experience in both residential and commercial Real Estate gives me an edge in helping my clients fulfill their financial goals and help make their dreams come true.

My passion for Real Estate started in college where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate. I took time off to raise my family and now have my career back at the forefront of my life.

Education is very important to me and I continually look for new ways to bring value to my clients.

While I enjoy working with all age groups, I recently found familiarity with the 55+ communities. Earning the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation gave me the knowledge and tools to counsel clients age 50+ through major financial and lifestyle transitions.

We have such gracious retirement

communities here in Brentwood with Summerset and Trilogy.

I am a Graduate of the REALTOR® Institute (GRI), considered by many Real Estate professionals to be the most advanced and comprehensive training program available to Real Estate Agents in North America. I am also a Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), which allows me to use my professional expertise and market knowledge to determine property values with the most accurate valuation analysis.

My partnership with Berkshire Hathaway allows me immediate contact with over a thousand Drysdale Real Estate Agents. With 45 Bay Area Drysdale offices, each Agent receives an email notification when new homes hit the market. What does this mean for you? Maximum exposure of your property in the “Booming” Bay Area Real Estate Market!

I’d like to earn your trust…

Donna Boland, GRI, Broker Associate is located at 141 Sand Creek Road, Suite E in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-323-7570, or email at, donna. boland@bhhsdrysdale.com, or visit, www. askdonna4EBProperty.com. – Advertisement

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

|

9B

10B

|

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

MARCH 15, 2019

Raising the curtain on window coverings DAWNMARIE FEHR

W

indow coverings are an important part of a well-appointed home.

Whether you are looking to spruce up a room prior to selling or simply adding your own style to your new home, Contra Costa Blinds (CCB) can help.

COMMUNITY

LOT #11

LOT #121

Pristine country home!

Brand-spanking new!

Great deal! 2016 Like-new 3-bed/2bath. 1252 sq ft. Bright & happy kitchen, gorgeous white cabinets, granite counters, spacious master bed, plenty of storage, minimal lot maintenence $180,000 PER037608CAAB

Check out this cute, cozy 2018 country home! 2-bed/2-bath, granite counters, NEW appliances, porch overlooks the hills. Call about our MOVE IN SPECIAL! $150,000 #009-000-H-A003439

LOT #74

Newly-Remodeled!

COMPLETELY remodeled! Huge upgrades. 3-bed/2-bath,1300+ sq. ft.

New hardwood flooring, soft-close cabinets, & quartz counters. Corner lot with new trex deck! Overlooks the Clayton hills $189,000 #009000HA001111a/b

Located near Brentwood, Clayton Palms is a newly remodeled country community nestled in the scenic hills of Clayton.

Build your own home!

Custom 1 - 3 bedrooms available!

Only FOUR vacant lots remaining at Clayton Palms! COMPLETE home setup and certification included! 3-4 mo completion. $90,000-$150,000

– Matt Baker, Contra Costa Blinds Baker has also worked with many customers who want to install fresh window coverings upon moving into their new homes.

Whether you are starting with a blank canvas, or exchanging old for new, CCB will have something perfect for you.

Bruce Bohnsack of Discovery Bay used CCB’s services from afar when they purchased their home in town.

“We had just bought a house here and were living in Virginia at the time,” said Bohnsack. “We contacted (CCB) and they were responsive and came out and did the job. The house had been a model home and there were few blinds in it, but basically they suggested different fabric and densities of fabrics on the blinds. And we are very happy with their recommendations.”

Bohnsack is one of many satisfied customers in East County. Rob Brooker of Rob Brooker Painting has used CCB and recommends them to his clients.

“Matt from Contra Costa Blinds is the best,” Brooker said. “I have used them a dozen times for different projects and will not call on anyone else. I have recommended him to several local customers after painting and they all have been happy.”

For more information on Contra Costa Blinds, please call 925-240-0451, email Matt Baker at Matt@contracostablinds.com or visit www.contracostablinds.com.

Give your loved ones peace of mind!

MEDAL LD AWARD

2017

GO

CLAYTON PALMS

Matt Baker, owner at CCB, has some advice for those looking to stage a home for sale. He said the appearance of window coverings should be clean and minimal because, as most Realtors will tell you, it’s important to let all possible light into each space in a home.

Here are Baker’s suggestions for prepping your windows for prospective buyers: ♦♦ Consider removing draperies, fabric-covered cornices or side panels. These all tend to be heavy and bulky and can make any room appear smaller. ♦♦ Clean and service any shutters. Make sure that louver pins, connectors, tilt bar staples and hardware are in place, secure and fully operable. ♦♦ Clean and service any horizontal blinds, roller shades or cellular shades. Make sure all cords are knot-free and that the product is fully functional. ♦♦ Service any motorized shades. Make sure that the batteries are changed, remote controls are available and that the product is fully operable. ♦♦ Clean and service any vertical products.

Make sure that they fully traverse open and can rotate, which will allow them to be stacked and less conspicuous.

“If the window treatment can’t be cleaned or opened to reveal the full window or door glass, you would probably be best served by removing it completely,” Baker suggests. “Buyers won’t generally pay much attention to something that’s not there, but will pay great attention to something that either doesn’t work or has a stain that won’t come out, a fabric tear or is missing parts.”

If the window treatment can’t be cleaned or opened to reveal the full window or door glass, you would probably be best served by removing it completely.

• Flat Rate Estate Planning • Avoid Costly Probate • Wills – Powers of Attorney • Trusts – Healthcare Directives www.EdwardYoungerLaw.com 420 Beatrice Court, Brentwood

Call for an Appointment Today! 925.420.4111

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 15, 2019

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

Get the financial facts about timeshares

M

11B

Timeshares have long held appeal because they are marketed toward people who may not be able to buy a vacation home, but still want to vacation each year.

any people turn to timeshares as a way to enjoy annual vacations.

But is investing in a timeshare a financially sound decision? That depends on whom you ask.

Getting the facts about how timeshares work and learning a few tricks can help anyone make an educated decision about them. In a timeshare, individuals purchase a property to use for vacations. Typically, they’ll use this property and the surrounding amenities once per year, and often must travel to the same location time and again.

Timeshares have long held appeal because they are marketed toward people who may not be able to buy a vacation home, but still want to vacation each year.

There are some advantages to timeshares. They provide a guaranteed vacation destination each year in a familiar place. This is great for people who value familiarity. Timeshares also make it possible to afford a vacation at an expensive resort. Sometimes a person can trade times or locations with other timeshare owners, enabling more versatility and new destination experiences. For those who have to skip a year, it may be possible

|

Photo courtesy Metro Creative

Learn how to navigate timeshare purchases to find out if they’re a smart purchase for you. to sublet the timeshare or let family and friends use it, if the agreement allows.

Timeshares have some notable drawbacks as well. Cost-efficiency is one notable shortcoming. The American Resort Development Association, a trade group for timeshare companies, suggests that the average cost of a timeshare is around $20,000, with an annual maintenance fee of $660. Those fees are paid even if the

resort isn’t used that year. Chances are a person can get a comparable vacation elsewhere for a lower cost, especially with the abundance of vacation property rentals available from traditional hotels, as well as sites such as AirBnB. A timeshare is not like a traditional real estate investment. According to Investopedia, it is an illiquid asset that is likely to lose value over time. Those

who decide to sell their timeshares often find they must do so at a deep discount.

Furthermore, those who sell a timeshare at a loss may find the Internal Revenue Service doesn’t let them claim a capital loss, which is often the case with other investments and property.

To make timeshares work better financially, individuals can opt to buy used, which is often at a fraction of the cost offered by resort developers for new units. Also, realize that a timeshare is a lifestyle purchase, not exactly a real estate investment. They are not a way to turn a profit. Try to purchase in desirable locations as well. Doing so increases the likelihood of resale in the future.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

Patrick McCarran “Know Your Options”

As a Local Realtor & Mom of two boys, keeping your family happy is important to me. I am not only working smarter, but working harder to make sure your dream home becomes your reality!

• Sellers ask for a free list of staging tips • Contact me for a FREE Market Evaluation

(925)

Susan Redgrave

899-5536

www.CallPatrick.com

Realtor

925-483-3294 RedgraveRealty@gmail.com • www.RedgraveRealty.com

• Text or email for a buyer handbook

CalBRE#01997935

pmccarran@yahoo.com

Patrick McCarran DRE# 01325072 In association with Realty One Group Elite DRE#01931601

12B

|

WWW.THEPRESS.NET

KiperHomes.com

REAL ESTATE GUIDE

MARCH 15, 2019

Live where you play.

Love where you live.

MOSAIC AT THE L AKE S FROM THE HIGH $5 0 0,0 0 0' S 3–5 BEDS, 2.5–3 BATHS 2, 33 0–2,75 1 SQUARE FEE T 7026 HARBORHAVEN WAY DISCOVERY BAY, CA (92 5) 526–70 65

REGATTA AT THE L AKE S FROM THE MID $5 0 0,0 0 0’S 3–5 BEDS, 2.5–3 BATHS 2,10 6–2,7 31 SQUARE FEE T 92 13 SHEARWATER CIRCLE DISCOVERY BAY, CA (92 5) 26 6–5959

A

t The Lakes at Discovery Bay, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of living in a gated, lake-oriented masterplanned setting: scenic lakefront trails, landscaped parks, waterways, fountains and a true sense of community. In this resort-like setting, our two new neighborhoods offer homes that are timeless, yet contemporary, and filled with upscale amenities and the latest building technology.

The builder reserves the right to modify features, specifications, plans and/or prices without notice.

Square footages are approximate.