TWO GREAT AGENTS + TWO DIFFERENT COMPANIES = UNSURPASSED RESULTS!
Have 600+ successful buyer transactions in combined careers (not counting listing sales)
18-month BUYER
SATISFACTION
GUARANTEE! Will resell the house FOR FREE if the buyer no longer loves it
GUARANTEES negotiating at least 5K off the price of the house or will credit the buyer $1000.
Vigorously pursue off-market inventory not found on Zillow or Redfin, including NEW CONSTRUCTION, expired listings, probate sales, & “Coming Soon” listings
Have better than 80% success rate in multiple offer situations when competing buyers’ offers have similar price & terms
GUARANTEE : Should their client ever lose to another offer with similar price and terms, they WILL PAY $ to their client!
Know 7 ways to often beat out all-cash buyers without offering a higher price
Have decades of experience helping buyers buy single family homes, townhomes, condos, foreclosures (REOs), short sales, & new construction
Steve & Courtney Agent X
Rea l GUIDE E state
ALAMEDA COUNTY
Classic, Stunning Bungalow
2609 68TH AVE, OAKLAND, CA 94605
2 BED / 1 BATH / 824 SQFT. / $475,000
A classic, stunning bungalow features 2 beds and 1 bath with an attached garage. As you enter, the home welcomes you with a warm, airy ambiance accentuated by natural lighting. The living room, a cozy retreat, features large windows- perfect for relaxed evenings. The heart of this home, the kitchen, is a culinary delight boasting sleek white cabinetry, Quartz counters, a practical breakfast bar with bar-top seating, tiled backsplash, stainless appliances and an open layout that seamlessly connects to the main living area. A spacious backyard to let your imagination run wild- al fresco dining, urban gardening or entertaining awaits! Enjoy the tranquility of nearby Joaquin Miller Park, offering ample greenspace for outdoor activities and relaxation. For those who travel frequently, Oakland Airport is a mere 10-minute drive, adding an extra layer of accessibility to this already wellconnected location.
Charming Home with Modern Upgrades
1292 61ST AVENUE, OAKLAND, CA 94621
2 BED / 1 BATH / 920 SQFT. / $389,000
Welcome home to this charming space! Open living & dining areas flow into a well-appointed kitchen with ample storage and granite counters. Remodeled bathroom features a full-sized shower. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout create a warm ambiance. Newer windows, paint, and fixtures enhance the sunfilled atmosphere. Converted garage and basement offer additional income or family space. Generous living area boasts natural light and cozy fireplace. Multi-generational home potential. Easy access to transit, schools, dining, and highways. Eligible for Community Lending Program Discounts!
PATRICK McCARRAN
On behalf of our 2024 DAR President, Laura Agdanowski, we would like to thank the 2024 Delta Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors and the 2024 Committee Chairs for a successful Year.
2024 DAR Board of Directors
LAURA AGDANOWSKI President
VIRGINIA VIERA MITCHELL President Elect
JAMES BRITTO Treasurer
PATRICK MCCARRAN Immediate Past President
ELLEN ALBRIGHT Director
JODY DREWRY Director
ALEX HUEZO Director
MAGGIE HURTADO Director
SEDAR JUAREZ Director
VALERIE SQUIER Director
KEVIN VIERRA Director
JOE WHEELAND
2024 DAR Committee Chairs
Budget and Finance JAMES BRITTO
Strategic Planning VIRGINIA VIERA MITCHELL
Bylaws VIRGINIA VIERA MITCHELL
Education VIRGINIA VIERA MITCHELL
Membership JODY DREWRY
Local Government Relations AARON MEADOWNS
Local Candidate Recommendations SCOTT MACINTYRE
Affiliate Council ALEX COONS
Delta REALTOR® Community Service Foundation KIESHA ZOGG
Bridge MLS Lead Representative KEVIN VIERRA
Young Professional Network RACHEL BARRIOS
Board of Directors and Committee Chairs
2025 DAR Board Directors
VIRGINIA VIERA MITCHELL President
KEVIN VIERRA President Elect
JAMES BRITTO Treasurer
LAURA AGDANOWSKI Immediate Past President
ELLEN ALBRIGHT Director
CATHLEEN GRIEBLING Director
MAGGIE HURTADO Director
SEDAR JUAREZ Director
PATRICK MCCARRAN Director
RAMESH SUMAN Director
JOE WHEELAND Director
2025 DAR Committee Chairs
Budget and Finance JAMES BRITTO
Strategic Planning KEVIN VIERRA
Bylaws KEVIN VIERRA
Membership JODY DREWRY
Local Government Relations AARON MEADOWS
Local Candidate Recommendations SCOTT MACINTYRE
Affiliate Council
Delta REALTOR® Community Service Foundation PATTI SHANER
Education JOHN GIGGY
Young Professional Network RACHEL BARRIOS
Bridge MLS Lead Representative KEVIN VIERRA
COMING SOON-CLAYTON
4 bedroom/2 bath single story with pool/hot tub. Great view of Mt. Diablo. Mid $1,300,000’s.
HACIENDA MMHP-PLEASANTON
2 bedroom/2 bath home, walk in tub, bonus room. $201,000.
This spacious 3, 528 sq. ft-home has 4 bedrooms and 4.5-baths, possible 5th bedroom or formal living room, currently being used as a den. You have an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops, sink in the island, double ovens, a gas cooktop and a Butler’s Pantry! Enjoy your meals with natural light in your Kitchen nook or host in your formal dining room. Downstairs, a private bedroom and full bath create the perfect guest or in-law suite, complemented by an additional half bath for convenience. Upstairs, has a loft and three more bedrooms, including the luxurious primary suite, it has a sunken tub, a large shower with a bench seat, double vanities, and a wraparound walk-in closet. Step outside and Relax in your outdoor California room and watch the kids, pets or birds play in your fully landscaped yard! With owned solar, a 3 car tandem garage and being conveniently located to shopping, freeways and the delta waterways (where you can boat swim and fish). What more could you ask for? BRENTWOOD $1,040,000
Discover your private retreat in this spacious, single-story 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home spanning 2,467 square feet. Professionally landscaped on over a quarter-acre lot with a lush yard featuring fruit trees, a sparkling pool, and an outdoor awning with skylights, this property offers both relaxation and room to entertain. A generous 3-car garage provides ample storage and convenience. Inside, the kitchenfamily room combo welcomes you with oak floors, Corian countertops, and a cozy gas fireplace. Sliding doors from the family room lead to the rear yard, creating a seamless flow for indoor-outdoor living. The formal dining and living rooms add an elegant space for gatherings. The luxurious master suite includes a walk-in closet, private sliding doors to the yard, and a spacious bath with a stand-up shower with built-in safety bars and a separate soaking tub. The hall bath features a shower over a tub. The fully equipped laundry room has a sink, washer, dryer that stay and both gas and electric hookups for ultimate convenience. Located near Lone Tree Golf Course and Event Center, Contra Loma Reservoir, and nearby parks for hiking, picnics, fishing, and more. $780,000
Former Model Home! Unique home with 5+ bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 3 car garage on a over quarter acre lot. Impressive entrance. Highend appliances. owner added a bedroom and a bathroom with permits. This property has a lot of potential...
2 Bed/1 Bath UNIT FOR LEASE - ANTIOCH
2 bedroom one bath, upstairs unit available for lease. Just painted inside. Clean unit. Close to Highway 4. Call for more info.
The New Broker In Town
Hire Cathleen Griebling if you want someone who is knowledgeable, professional, and determined to getting your home sold. We can’t say enough good things about Cathleen. She knows her stuff. We hired Cathleen based on recommendations from family and friends who had used her in their real estate transactions. There is no doubt that we would hire her again in a heart beat to handle any future real estate needs. Whether your buying or selling, it is so important to have a knowledgeable real estate professional watching your back and negotiating the best terms for you. Thank you Cathleen Griebling.
Robert T.
Cathleen is a true professional! She knows the business inside and out, works hard for her clients and follows through. We've had the pleasure to work with her on multiple occasions. Cathleen has helped us purchase 2 properties and sell 3 over the last 10 years. Even with the drastic ups and downs in the housing market over the last decade, she doesn't miss a beat. I can't recommend a more hardworking and trustworthy realtor.
Heather
Cathleen Griebling is a true real estate professional. She knows her community, the market and the best way to sell or buy a home. She has the utmost integrity and will be completely honest with you about how the process works, what you should know and expect. She works well with others and you can trust that Cathleen will do whatever it takes to get your deal done. I highly recommend Cathleen Griebling and due to her hard work my house sold over the listing price in the midst of Covid-19
. Julie
OAKLEY $75,000 Perfect Place for 55+ COMING SOON. 1 Bedroom /1 Bath 728 sqft. Kitchen Update with Countertops, Cabinetry, Appliances, and Laminate Flooring. XXL Primary Bedroom with 2 lrg closets! Stack Washer/ Dryer, Refrigerator Incl. Wheelchair accessible & Storage Shed. Park Space rent Lowest in the area. Call for a preview showing!!! $75,000
RARE HAPPY VALLEY ESTATE
One prime acre lot situated between 2 large acre parcels..Beautifully maintained and landscaped..Electric gate opens to extra expansive drive way and one of a kind 5 car garage with bathroom..Home is classically designed with special architectural features..Some updates in kitchen and baths...Air conditioned..2 Wells and 2 septics ...Property is fully fenced and secure..This is a very special piece of Brentwood; come make this your dream home !
ALILOUPOUR REAL ESTATE TEAM
Adding Value to Your Home:
Very few people are aware of the added value an ADU can bring to their property. As an example the appraisal can be as high as 1 to 3 times the cost of the ADU and that value is added to the value of the existing home. Another reason is the high rental income in California. In fact, the number one reason people are building ADU’s is to live in the ADU and rent out their main home.
Benefits of Owning an ADU
Lets talk about the benefits of owning an ADU and all the tax credits and Grants.
• Income potential
• Privacy for office, music, artist, Inlaws, college students
• Adding value to your home creating equity
Best Ways to Use ADUs
There are quite a few ways an ADU can be used as they can be Non-Living Space ADUs such as:
• A gym/yoga place
• A home office
• An art studio/music studio
• A pool house
• Other use of ADU is to be a Guest House, Lodging Caretakers, Multi-Generational Housing Opportunity, Rental ADUs, and many more!
Lot Splits Can Bring Value and Income to Your Property:
Besides rental income and increased property value Senate Bill 9 allows for lot splits where you can now have up to 4 units after the Lot split. We are expert developers and can advise you correctly if this is proper for you and your financial goals. Give us a call and we will be glad to assist you.
EAST BAY FAMILY MORTGAGE ADVISOR
1. C alHFA's My Home Purchase Assistance Program Is Here!
• No D own Payment
• NO CREDIT REQUIREMENT!
• Combine with the C alHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP) for closing cost & credits!
2. R enovation Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
• Ne ed funds for renovations but short on equity? Our HELOC lets you borrow up to 125% of your home's value
• Enjoy the flexibility to draw what you need, when you need it - no need to refinance your first mortgage!
3. Super Jumbo L oans - Up to $10M!
• Self-employed? No tax returns needed! We offer luxury financing with flexible terms and fast approvals for high-net-worth borrowers.
Over $10,000 was raised at this years Holiday Party for local CHARITIES
Congratulations to our Realtor & Affiliate of the Year Lauren McLane &
DISCUSSION INTEREST RATES
(and
how they can help)
Yesterday, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) reduced the federal funds interest rates to 4.50-4.75 %. This new level is 0.25% lower. The previous reduction was in September, and it was twice the size of the December reduction at 0.50%. Both had very similar impacts. The bond market had an increase in long term federal notes and bonds rather than causing them to decrease. Many who work in the business were and are surprised as the desire for lower rates would provide a bonus to the people that need to borrow to conduct their business. The FOMC only makes these deductions and only on this instrument.
Many people need to understand what these federal loans. The federal funds rate is the rate that depository institutions (banks) borrow from other banks when their reserves fall under the level they need to maintain. This loan is something that the average American will never, ever see.
The question is, ‘Why did the long-term rates for business go up when the federal funds rate go down?’ This applies to all transactions such as business loans, the ‘prime rate’,
and other instruments including mortgage loans. The most popular of them is the 10-year bond which today was priced at 4.57%, about the same as the federal funds rate. However, this rate is higher today (December 18) than it was yesterday. The answer is not simple but understandable. The long-term rates are impacted by the demand for them. Borrowers, like the mortgagee, search for lower rates, which on its face look to be lower than higher when the FOMC reduces the federal fund rate. If bond buyers see that there will be no further rate reductions, they will seek out better options. With respect to mortgages, one of the more rate deductions, they look for alternate sources and there becomes a smaller demand for the 10-year bonds. As a reduction in buyers has an impact on the price, the interest rates offered must go higher to find buyers to take advantage of the increased rate. (Whew!)
How does the home purchaser deal with this. 1) Get approved for a mortgage loan as soon as it is possible. Get the best option you can get. 2) Purchase your new home as quickly as you can. 3) At some time in the future you may be able to refinance your mortgage. This may happen at some time in the future that cannot be lined up. Interest rates will move up or down but if you select the mortgage that never changes, there may be a time where refinancing may be a possibility.
Rates may seem high, but the FOMC has artificially kept them below markets for so long these rates may seem high. If you have questions, please contact me.
John Case is a Broker Associate with Corcoran Icon Properties (CA) & Stanberry Realtors (TX) He has dealt with all aspects of Real Estate during his career and can answer any question that you may have regarding your home.
CalDRE Lic:00622378
He is also the editor of the East Contra County Real Estate Economic Report. He works with his wife Diana in Brentwood. They can be reached at 925-382-9771 or by email at johnacase@stanberry.com
Current and potential customers can explore properties from any device, at their convenience, 24/7. Enjoy a fully interactive experience, similar to Google Street View, that lets you navigate every room as if you're actually there.
morrisongraphics@yahoo.com https://morrisongraphics.online/ Like & Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ morrisongraphics90 Find
on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ morrisongraphics90/
Hablo Español
By Patrick McCarran ~ Real Estate Broker
There is a major change coming in the real estate world that will completely reshape how buyers purchase their home. What will the settlement mean for homebuyers and homesellers?
Traditionally Owners have hired an agent to sell their property and negotiated a commission. By making it a percentage it gives the agent incentive to maximize the sales price, this is a very common practice with money management, talent agents, etc. The listing agent would then offer an offer of compensation from their commission to act as a finder’s fee and to broaden the scope and market of the property, this was the function of the MLS.
Starting in July 2024 this will no longer be allowed, due to a class action settlement with a private party and supported by the DOJ the selling agent will no longer be able to offer a finder’s fee on the MLS. The new system will shift agent compensation and place the Buyers on their own. This will give the Buyer the options of hiring a real estate agent, or a lawyer, or representing themselves. A written agreement will be required
for Realtor representation for both in-person and live virtual home tours. This currently only applies to Realtors but there is a state law in the legislature to apply to ALL real estate licensees. The Buyer will now be responsible for paying for their representation. There is as always no set price for representation and this will be up to the individual to negotiate.
Sellers will be allowed to pay for the Buyer’s agent if they choose by offering concessions on the MLS. The buyer can then choose to distribute the money according to their needs towards closing costs or Realtor fees. While listing commission fees have always been negotiable with the changing dynamic the fee structure will most likely change. As a Seller it will be up to you to negotiate what you wish to pay to sell your home and what will be the most advantageous. The Seller will decide if they wish to pay and how much to the Buyer’s agent. The Seller and their agent will need to work out if they are comfortable with their agent representing an unrepresented buyer and what the additional fee for the listing agent to represent the Buyer in that scenario.
While doing it yourself may sound like a great idea and instant savings, bypassing an
agent’s services may not lead to direct savings, especially for first time buyers, the home buying process can get very complicated and having a great local agent to negotiate and guide you can give you a competitive advantage.
Consumers will still be able to view Open Houses without a written agreement and may tour with the listing agent if the listing agent business practices allow. Buyer will have option to sign exclusive agreements or open agreement which will be up to the consumer and their Realtor. The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) will continue to be supported through Realtor dues and thereby imparting vital information to the consumer.
As we move forward into this brave new world of real estate, it will be different but ultimately I am confident that Consumers and Realtors will work together so that all parties may benefit.
Patrick McCarran is a local Realtor and Broker He can be contact by phone or text at (925) 899-5536, pmccarran@yahoo.com or www.CallPatrick.com. An independently owned and operated office. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Your 2025 Leadership Team
JESSICA ROBINSON
JANUARY 9TH
Lunch and Learn - Gus Kramer
FEBRUARY 13TH
Collaborate with YPN/Meet the Committees
FEBRUARY 28TH
Mardi Gras
MARCH 6TH
New Member Orientation #1
MARCH 13TH
Lunch and Learn
APRIL 10TH
New Home Bus Tour - Central Valley
APRIL 25TH
YPN Backpack Fundraiser - Picnic Kickoff
MAY 8TH
Lunch and Learn
JUNE 12TH
Lunch and Learn - New Member Orientation #2
JULY 10TH
YPN Hot Summer Topics @ Rubiano's
JULY 31ST
Women's Concil of REALTORS, Delta Elections
AUGUST 14TH
New Bus Tour - Local or Solano County
SEPTEMBER 11TH
Lunch and Learn - New Member Orientation #3
SEPTEMBER 25TH
Rocktoberfest
OCTOBER 9TH
Lunch and Learn - New Member Orientation #4
NOVEMBER 13TH
Installation
KELLY FRANCO
LAURIE WEXNER
LISA HULTZ
MARIA BRUNO MICHELLE JOGOPULAS
Please join us every Monday morning (except legal holidays) to discuss and share information about Real Estate business and events for; Oakland, Berkeley and Piedmont at the Bridge Association of Realtors building at 2855 Telegraph Ave. (Telegraph and Ashby area).
Meetings starts at 8:30 am and ends at 10:00 am with local Broker's Tour afterwards. This event is free, space is limited so don't be late... and Realtors and Affiliates are all invited. We Focus on Buyers and Sellers Issues and Needs FREE TO ATTEND!
2724 RITCHIE STREET OAKLAND, CA 94605
Experience the Best of Oakland Living in This Stunning Bungalow! Discover this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath bungalow that is sure to capture your heart! this home offers the perfect mix of style, comfort, and convenience—ideal for creating lasting memories. Key Features You’ll Love: • Ample Parking: A long, paved driveway offers plenty of room for vehicles, an RV, or your favorite recreational gear. • Inviting Interiors: Step inside to enjoy the flooring that enhances the home’s flow and adds a touch of modern elegance.
3114 CALIFORNIA STREET BERKELEY, CA 94703
Opportunity Knocks! Fantastic fixer-upper, this south Berkeley duplex offers endless possibilities for renovation, updating, and customization; allowing you to design a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. With two separate units, you have the flexibility to live in one unit while renting the other or transform both units into income-generating property. Upstairs unit is currently vacant, offering you the freedom to renovate, Downstairs unit is owner-occupied, but soon to be vacant. Downstairs has nice size living room and formal dining room, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, laundry room and a bonus room.
1704 NEWARK LANE SUISUN CITY, CA 94585
Peace and tranquility await in this stunning 2,117 square feet single level home, offering the perfect blend of comfort and style. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home is designed for you, with abundant natural light. As you enter, the inviting living room seamlessly flows into the dining area, creating an ideal space for entertaining guests or enjoying family gatherings. The heart of the home is the cozy family room with fireplace a versatile retreat, perfect for relaxation or various activities. The primary suite offers en suite bathroom and a walk in closet.
875 56TH STREET OAKLAND, CA 94608
4 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 2,212 SQ FT | $749,000
Calling all visionaries and Investors! Once a charming 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, this property now requires significant work to restore its former glory in North Oakland. With a generous 2212 sq ft of living space and a sprawling 5200 sq ft lot, this property offers the perfect canvas for your investment dreams.While the home itself requires a complete overhaul, its prime location and expansive lot size make it an incredible investment, this is your chance to breathe new life into the existing structure.
