“Do you have a cat?”
a colleague asks me during a business meeting.
“No, why?” We both look down at my black pants, which are covered in blonde fur. “A dog,” I say, smiling meekly, “two, actually,” as if that somehow excuses my dogged appearance.
Fur patrol: 7 ways to bust pet fuzz at home
“I have a cat,” she adds, trying to sound sympathetic, “same problem.”
Right, I think, only her clothes look immaculate. I mutter something about loving them anyway, then slink o in search of some masking tape to de-fur my pants.
I am not alone with this problem.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, today 46% of U.S. households, nearly 90 million, have at least one dog, and 32%, about 74 million, have at least one cat.
That is a lot of fur ying.
And — just like my grown children once did — my dogs, Luke and Pippin, frequently embarrass me, make too much noise, wake me too early, leave toys everywhere and make a mess. Still, I wouldn’t trade them for a pet-free life, even if I am on constant fur patrol.
Even though I like a clean house, I’d rather have a life- lled home than a pristine show place. Shed happens, so I have found ways to
bust the fuzz and meet fur halfway. Besides keeping a lint brush in several rooms of the house and now, since the cat comment, in my car and purse, here are some more ways to combat fur-stration.
1. Start at the source. Of course, the best way to combat unwanted pet hair in the home is to keep it out of the home. First, if it’s not too late, pick a non-shedding dog breed. These have hair not fur. Pippin, a miniature labradoodle, does not shed but needs frequent trips to the groomers. Luke, a Great Pyrenees-German Shepherd mix, sheds for ve dogs. Shedding dogs and all cats bene t from regular brushing, which helps remove excess fur. I use a hand mitt with rubber teeth and work over Luke’s coat like a curry comb once a week. (Do this outside.) During peak fur season, he goes to the groomers for
Marni Jameson At Home
■ See JAMESON, page 4
Photo courtesy Porte Rouge BE FUR-WARNED — One way to deal with pet fur in your home is to let visitors know up front what to expect, as this playful doormat does.
Proximity to family and friends, a ordability drive relocation trends
National Association of Realtors News release
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In 2024, Realtors reported that their recent clients chose to move to a speci c area primarily to be closer to family and friends (30%) and to get more home for the money (21%), according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors. While available U.S. Census Bureau data provides information surrounding where and in what volumes Americans are moving, NAR’s 2024 Migration Trends report analyzes the drivers and motivators of Realtors®’ clients who move to di erent areas nationwide to understand and measure why people are moving to certain areas. The report also breaks down regional di erences by movers to the Midwest, Northeast, South and West.
U.S. Census Bureau data nds the top 20 states with the highest net migration in 2023 include Florida (372,870), Texas (315,301), North Carolina (126,712), South Carolina (91,853), Georgia (88,325), Tennessee (76,471), Arizona (57,814), Alabama (36,128), Oklahoma (31,967), Ohio (28,718), Indiana (22,468), Arkansas (22,202), Virginia (21,132), Idaho (20,053), Wisconsin (19,301), Colorado (19,167), Missouri (19,023), Kentucky (16,592), Washington (13,643) and Nevada (12,908).
Forty-six percent of Realtors’ clients moved to the South in 2024, followed by 25% to the West, 18%
to the Midwest and 11% to the Northeast. Conversely, 33% of respondents’ clients moved from the South, 30% from the West, 22% from the Midwest and 15% from the Northeast.
Movers to the West were driven more than others by getting more house for the money (24%), movers to the South were more driven than others by lower or more favorable tax rates (19%) and movers to the Northeast were more motivated than others to move closer to their job location (22%).
“It is no surprise that the Sun Belt states continue to attract movers within the U.S., but this report helps to highlight just how much the draw to be close to one’s friends and family drives a relocation,” said Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research.
“Homebuyers continue to seek areas where their support systems are around them.”
A er stating that being closer to family and friends (30%) and to get more home for the money (21%) were at the top among all reasons for choosing a speci c area, the secondary reasons Realtors®’ recent clients cited for moving to a speci c area include the area having lower or more favorable taxes (16%), it being a safer area with less crime (16%) and being closer to their work location (15%). When asked to identify the one primary reason for choosing to move to a speci c area, the most common driver among Realtors®’ recent clients was to be closer to family and friends at 23%, followed by getting more
house for the money (12%) and being closer to work (9%).
“Homebuyers are placing a priority on getting more bang for their buck, looking to areas with not only more space within their home but also favorable taxes,” said Lautz. “This migration ow will likely continue as retirees and remote workers relocate.”
Realtors’ recent clients generally moved to a similar type of area; however, those moving from central city/ urban areas (41%) and resort areas (44%) most o en moved to a suburban area.
In 2024, Realtors reported that 36% of their clients moved to a di erent state. However, the majority of Realtors’ clients moved intrastate: 21% moved within the same city, 21% moved to a di erent city in the same area and 21% moved to a di erent area within their
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a professional de-shedding.
2. Bust the fuzz. A er Michael Sweigart of New Jersey got tired of literally wearing the hair shirt, he invented FurZapper. This squishy, reusable, donut-sized ring made of silicone has a super tacky surface that grabs fur while tumbling around with clothes and pet bedding in your washer and dryer, then releases it into drains and vents. Toss it in with your furry lled loads, and your laundry comes out fur-free. You can buy a two-pack ($14.99) through furzapper.com and at Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Chewy, Amazon, ACE Hardware, Petland, and Tractor and Supply Co.
3. Get to the root. The fellow who cleans my upholstered furniture and rugs introduced me to Uproot Clean (uprootclean.com), a must-have tool for any owner of a shedding pet. This hand-held scraper looks like a paint roller, only the business end has two ne combs with small teeth. Great for items you can’t toss in the wash, like your sofa; it also
Continued from 3
works on bedding, carpets, rugs and car seats. Rake it over fur-covered (non-knit) surfaces and watch the tool pull up fur like a bamboo rake gathering leaves. Be careful on delicate fabrics. Available in various sizes, Uproot Clean ranges in price from $12.99 to $49.99, depending on the size.
4. Fido-proof the sofa. If you can’t keep your furry friends o the furniture, meet them halfway with a faux-fur sofa pet bed. These look like regular pet beds, with bolstered backs and sides, only they’re designed to sit on your sofa and protect them while pleasing your pet with a comfy perch. The front of the bed has a panel that drops over the edge of the sofa like an apron. This keeps pets from clawing the fabric as they scramble up. Because the material on the bed’s underside adheres to the sofa, the bed stays put.
5. Let a robot vacuum. Before Rosie the Roomba, our iRobot vacuum, came to live with us, I got grumpy sweeping and vacuuming pu balls of dog fur twice a week.
state. Those relocating to the South and West were most likely moving from a di erent state, while movers in the Northeast were most likely moving within the same state.
Consistent with general seasonal market trends, respondents’ clients were most likely to have begun their home purchase transaction in June (21%), May (18%) or April (15%).
Among repeat buyers, 74% sold their previous residence when making their recent purchase, while 20% kept their previous residence as an investment, rental or vacation property. Repeat buyers who moved to the West and Northeast were more likely than others to keep their previous residence.
Of Realtors’ recent clients, 94% made a permanent move to a new area, while 6% now split their time between their new and previous locations. Nearly one in ve (18%) moved back to an area where they had previously lived, a trend more common in the Midwest (24%) and West (20%).
Realtors’ recent clients are most likely to have chosen a speci c home based on its outdoor space (42%), additional square footage (31%) and because it’s in a quieter area (24%). Outdoor space was especially important to movers to the Midwest, while movers to the Northeast were particularly driven by the need for more square footage and a better work commute.
Job location did not play a role in the purchase decision for 43% of Realtors®’ recent clients, as they continue to work remotely, while job location did in uence 37% of movers who work at least some of their time in the o ce. Movers to the West and South were most likely to report that job location did not play a role in their decision due to remote work. Only 2% of Realtors’ recent clients made their move due to a return-to-o ce in their jobs. This was slightly more common among movers to the Midwest at 4%.
Now she does it. At rst I didn’t believe these worked, but they do.
6. Meet fur halfway. If you can’t grasp it, mask it. Because you can’t get all the fur all the time, having area rugs and pet beds that are the color of your pet’s fur can make fur less noticeable.
7. Manage expectations. While walking through a shopping area near my home recently, I spotted a doormat that read: “Embrace the dog hair. It’s everywhere,” and thought, “Phew! It’s not just me!” Keep your sense of humor and head perfection o at the door.
Join me next week as I share ways to clear the air of pet odors, dander and other allergens.
Marni Jameson is the author of seven books, including “Rightsize Today to Create Your Best Life Tomorrow,” “What to Do With Everything You Own to Leave the Legacy You Want” and “Downsizing the Family Home.” You may reach her at marnijameson.com.
SEE MOVIE TOUR: WWW.LIVEINSIERRASPRINGS.COM
CENTURY 21 SELECT • JANINE WAGGENER (530) 295-5509
Springs! Great for kids, this home is walkable to the community club house with a pool, sports courts, playground, picnic area and more! This roomy, 3 or 4 bedroom home has a large family or game room, a home of ce or home school room, a remote master, and a 2-car, oversize garage! Serene, 2+ acre knoll-top setting is located in a private cul-de-sac with lovely views, fruit trees, and a sunny fenced backyard for gardens or pets. What a fantastic opportunity to affordably own a home in this desirable subdivision. Insurance quotes are reasonable, the home is energy ef cient with extra insulation, woodstove, dual pane windows, and all gas systems! The home is also on a septic system (means no costly sewer bills)! But here’s the best part: it is only 2.6 miles to a gorgeous lake for boating, paddling, shing, swimming, hiking, biking and more! A great place for kids to be kids and live a country lifestyle where they can see the stars at night, grow their own vegetables and run free! Heaven!
$644,000
Discover your dream home in the heart of Placerville! This delightful 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom property, featuring two master suites, is perfect for multigenerational living. Enjoy the comfort of spacious family and living rooms, complete with a cozy wood stove. Situated on over an acre of usable land, it’s ideal for outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation. With RV access and solar panels, this home offers both convenience and sustainability. Experience the best of both worlds close to town yet privately tucked away. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!
C21 SELECT • ASHLEY CAMPBELL (530) 391-4058 & MISHA LEE (916) 280-7012
ROAD, CAMINO $850,000
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CENTURY 21 SELECT • JULIE CLARK (530) 306-7661
WELCOME HOME!
$775,000 MLS#224118950
DRE#00825891
This beautifully maintained, move-in-ready residence in the highly sought-after Bar J Ranch perfectly combines comfort and modern updates. Enjoy the benefits of an all-electric home with owned solar panels, keeping your utility bills low! Relax in the inviting family room next to the cozy pellet stove, or entertain guests in the backyard under the covered patio. The outdoor space features two storage sheds and flourishing orange and lemon trees, adding a touch of nature to your home. The kitchen is a chef’s delight, equipped with double ovens, a charming breakfast nook, and ample storage space. Retreat to the remodeled primary bedroom & Bath which boasts double sinks, radiant heat, stunning granite countertops, and a spacious walk-in shower. Conveniently located within walking distance of the Cameron Park Community Services District and just a short drive to Hwy 50, this home is a must-see.
LINDA RILEY (530) 409-3761 • ALEX GAUDY (707) 301-9075
6809 Crystal Blvd, El Dorado
MUST-SEE TO FULLY APPRECIATE ITS BEAUTY!
Meticulously updated from floor to ceiling and is move-in ready. All-electric home with owned solar panels. Beautifully remodeled full bathroom featuring a stylish tile shower and flooring. Upstairs, the updated kitchen shines with Corian countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a Kitchen Aid oven and microwave, all complemented by an electric cooktop and a cozy breakfast nook. The spacious dining and living room features a large wood-burning stove, perfect for keeping you warm on chilly evenings. The extra-deep three-car garage is set up as a workshop, complete with 220v hookups for welding, compressor lines, a swamp cooler, and ample storage. This home also boasts a new HVAC system, upgraded windows and sliders throughout, and modern lighting fixtures with ceiling fans for added comfort. Enjoy Xfinity High Speed Internet! Step out onto the front or back deck to enjoy breathtaking sunrise views of the Sierras.
LINDA RILEY (530) 409-3761 • ALEX GAUDY (707) 301-9075
DRE#02092813
DRE#00825891
DRE#02092813
$699,000 MLS#224118531
4420 Aventine Road, Cameron Park
SLICE OF HEAVEN: YOUR DREAM HOME ON 2.65 ACRES acres, this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath retreat is a gardener’s dream! Step inside to the spacious great hardwood oors, vaulted wood ceilings & the warmth of a toasty wood stove. Enjoy the sunroom could be a great den or home o ce. Split oor plan allows you to sprawl out & have privacy. energy-e cient mini-split heating & cooling. e huge 31x21 garage boasts 2 car spaces PLUS workshop. Property o ers many parking options & RV space. You must see the yard in person to and possibilities. Yard can support horses or other pets. Eat the fresh fruit from your own citrus orchards & sip wine from local vineyards in Gold Hill. is sanctuary o ers serenity, yet is between Historic Downtown Placerville and Coloma and is only a 10 minute drive to Hwy 50. is purchase in this Woodridge neighborhood and could be the perfect spot for you to enjoy the living!
MLS#224128519 Listed at $600,000
OLD FASHIONED CONCIERGE SERVICE
I HAVE BEEN SELLING HOMES IN POLLOCK PINES FOR OVER 20 YEARS. EVERY SELLER AND BUYER HAVE DEFINITE PRIORITIES, AND I ENJOY DELIVERING WHAT YOU WANT, INCLIDING PRICE, LOCATION, & TYPE OF HOME. I ALSO HAVE A TEAM AROUND ME TO MAKE SURE YOUR EVERY NEED IS MET, THAT INCLUDES A TRUSTED LOAN OFFICER, CARPENTERS, PLUMBERS, ELECTRICIANS, ROOFERS, & SEPTIC EXPERTS. ALSO OFFERED IS MULTi-WEEKEND OPEN HOUSES, PLUS A CAMERA CREW SECOND TO NONE. CALL ME @ 530 903-4694 AND LET’S GET THINGS TAKEN CARE OF.
TESTIMONY
“BILL WAS AN ABSOLUTE PLEASURE TO WORK WITH! HIS COMMUNICATIONS WERE FLUID AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND. WE FELT AS THOUGH WE WERE TALKING WITH A FAMILY MEMBER. HE WAS EXTREMELY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND TO HELP US AND ACCOMMODATE THE CONDITIONS OF THE SALE. CAN’T SAY ENOUGH GOOD THINGS ABOUT HIM, 10 OF 10!” THANK YOU SO MUCH BILL! ~ HANNAH PILLOW
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Residential Homes el DoraDo, DiamonD sPrinGs
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by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Finance Lenders law - #6073455. CA Department of Business Oversight - 866-275-2677. California - Bureau of Real Estate Branch Of ce License Endorsement #00988341 1-2024
“As the holiday season approaches, We wanted to take a moment to re ect on what we’re thankful for. is year has brought its share of challenges, but it has also reminded us of the importance of gratitude. We’re thankful for our health, our families, our friends, and our community. We’re thankful for the opportunity to do what we love and to make a di erence in the lives of others. Most of all, we’re thankful for you. Your support, partnership and referrals mean the world to us. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.”
of the WEEK
DRE#02156476
$644,000 MLS#224068708
DISCOVER YOUR DREAM HOME IN THE HEART OF PLACERVILLE!
This delightful 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom property, featuring two master suites, is perfect for multigenerational living. Enjoy the comfort of spacious family and living rooms, complete with a cozy wood stove. Situated on over an acre of usable land, it’s ideal for outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation. With RV access and solar panels, this home offers both convenience and sustainability. Experience the best of both worlds close to town yet privately tucked away. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!
ASHLEY CAMPBELL (530) 391-4058 • MISHA LEE (916) 280-7012
$17,500,000 MLS#224124117 SIERRA FOOTHILLS AVA’S PREMIER ESTATE WINERY PROPERTY!
This 479 acre property, including 282 acres of premium vineyard, is steeped in Amador wine history as the first post-prohibition winery in the Sierra Foothills. Total of 88,727 sf of
DRE#01356944
production capacity of 240,000± cases including a barrel room capable of storing 6,000 barrels. 6 wells generating approx. 927 gallons/minute. High-capacity hospitality/events venue has hosted many large events including wed- dings, festivals, wine marketing events, wine maker dinners, and corporate events. The 11,000sf tasting room/ banquet/hospitality center has a full commercial kitchen and outdoor venue that is ideal for hosting events. DAVE BOLSTER (530) 409-2676
DRE#01308662 OPEN HOUSE Saturday , Nov. 30 • 12-3pm 3720 Marinko Ct, Placerville
DRE# 02233147
$725,000 MLS#224124923
BEAUTIFULLY CARED FOR, UPDATED & MOVE IN READY!
Custom home on 5 manicured acres with oak canopy and westerly views! 4 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, semi-formal dining with deck access, 2 full baths, attached 2 car garage, solar & generator for energy independence, detached garage with workshop, boat/recreational vehicle parking.
SALLY LONG JOHNS (530) 306-0821
OPEN HOUSE Saturday , Nov. 30 • 12-2pm 2890 Crystal Springs Road, Camino