Distinctive Properties July 2020

ER

N A PA VA L L E Y R E A L E S TAT E

P R OP E R T I ES

A Wine Country Lifestyle Magazine

Cover photo courtesy of Yvonne Rich Yvonne Rich Exclusive Estates

JULY 2020 | VOLUME 36, ISSUE 7

Cover property information on page 9 ď ľ

A publication of Napa Valley Publishing Company JULY 2020

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 1

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In this issue

10

10 11 14 16 17 20 21 24 26 28 29 33 34 36 37 38 42

July 2020

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

33

36

44

How to stop wasting perfectly good water down the drain Calistoga map Chris d Craiker: How will we live after this pandemic?

Five ways to help prevent home cyberattacks St. Helena map Four tips to prevent costly damage to your home Yountville map Four easy steps to a chemical-free backyard Napa map Burt Polson: Consider alternative real estate investments —part one Burt Polson: Consider alternative real estate investments —part two Five time-saving tips for faster cleanup this summer Napa’s Loan Ranger Chris Salese: My COVID-19 testing experience Create an outdoor getaway in your own backyard Bathroom remodel: 4 questions to ask before you customize Gerrett Snedaker: Wine Country real estate markets described as frenzied What’s behind your walls?

3 household dangers you can’t always see The simple guide to buying a toilet To advertise in Distinctive Properties or any Napa Valley Publishing outlet, contact Randy Dowis at RDowis@napanews.com.

D

istinctive Properties provides print and digital platforms for Napa Valley real estate and real estate related advertising. We feature property listings, open houses, articles and more in our magazine, newspaper sections, on our website and on our social media pages.

NapaValleyRegister.com/homes

EDITOR & DIRECTOR OF SALES Norma Kostecka 707-256-2228 nkostecka@napanews.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Randy Dowis 707-256-2229 rdowis@napanews.com

Distinctive Properties - Napa Valley @DistinctPrperty

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A Wine Country Lifestyle Magazine

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Distinctive Properties makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Distinctive Properties is a registered trademark of The Napa Valley Publishing Company.

8 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

JULY 2020

MODERN ARCHITECTURAL JEWEL J UST L ISTED

C OVER P ROPERTY

8277RutherfordJewel.com

$5,995,000

YVONNE RICH Yvonne Rich Exclusive Estates

707-968-9888

yvonne@fabulousnapavalley.com 1338 MAIN STREET

ST. HELENA

CA

fabulousnapavalley.com July 2020

BRE#01045780 DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 9

How to

stop wasting

perfectly good

water down the

Brandpoint‌ photos

drain

BRANDPOINT ‌W hat happens when you turn on the shower? In the typical North American home, cold water comes pouring out. Because this is a shock to the body, most people make it a habit to run the shower for a few minutes before getting in.

Meanwhile, you might do something else as the water warms. In fact, there are probably times you have gotten distracted and forgotten about your shower.

Whether it’s for a few minutes or much longer, this is a lot of potable water just running down the drain, and it is costing you money.

Fortunately, there is a growing home improvement trend that eliminates this problem: hot water recirculation using tankless water heater systems.

WHY DOES IT TAKE SO LONG TO GET HOT WATER?‌ A typical American home wastes thousands of gallons of perfectly usable water down the drain annually due to lengthy wait times at hot-water outlets in the bath and kitchen. This experience is common when showering and bathing, as well as when you turn on faucets.

This happens because when you use warm water, the remaining water in the pipes does not return 10 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

to the water heater for reheating.

Instead, it stays in the pipes and eventually turns cold. This chilly water needs to be pushed out and is what you feel before new hot water from the water heater is delivered when you turn the knob.

WHY DOESN’T THIS HAPPEN AT HOTELS?‌ This same experience doesn’t typically happen in hotels, where you enjoy hot water near instantaneously. That’s because commercial properties like hotels know that many people want to use hot water at similar times and expect this convenience, so they have a special pump constantly run with a dedicated circulation line of water connected to each room. That always puts hot water right where it’s needed. Also, in a hotel, the distance between the farthest shower and the hot-water source is so great, the wait and the consequent waste and cost would be enormous.

What’s the solution for residential properties? More homeowners desire this convenience and are installing a hot-water recirculation system, which allows you to enjoy the convenience of hot water on demand while also reducing your water footprint, helping save money on utility bills.

THE MANY BENEFITS OF HOT WATER RECIRCULATION‌ Today’s homeowner often has a high desire for comfort while being mindful of the environment, which makes it no surprise that hot-water recirculation is a growing home improvement trend.

The NRCR Residential Condensing Tankless Water Heater from Noritz uses a built-in pump to keep hot water close to even the farthest outlet in the home, minimizing the wait and, therefore, the waste of unused potable water down the drain. Whether you want to replace your water heating system with a modern tankless option or add a crossover valve that retrofits to your existing system, it offers several options for different plumbing configurations.

As a result, hot water is always available in whatever part of the house you need it.

Some homes have a pre-built pipe loop that is ready to add a pump to work in conjunction with your water heater. If your home doesn’t have this dedicated return line, you can install a crossover valve at the farthest fixture of your home.

Alternatively, homeowners may decide to replace their systems with tankless options. With tankless systems, the hot-water circulation

pump is fully integrated into the tankless water heater. This technology operates only when there is demand to bring hot water to you, which saves even more energy.

These systems are more affordable than ever. Federal tax credits combined with possible rebates from local or state governments can drive the price down significantly.

SMART TECHNOLOGY FOR A SMART HOME‌ In addition to providing on-demand hot water and reducing water waste, the NRCR technology learns how and when you use hot water. The new learning mode records habits over time based on your daily use and will turn on the recirculation pump only when you need it, meaning your system is efficient as well as convenient. You can also set your own schedule to your lifestyle needs if you choose.

If you’re done with the unpleasant stream of cold water every time you want to shower, you might want to consider tankless hot-water recirculation systems that also reduce water waste. Learn more at www.noritz.com/nrcr.

July 2020

CALISTOGA Old Faithful Geyser

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Calistoga Realty 707-942-9422 1473-C LINCOLN AVENUE CALISTOGA, CA 94515

Just iN time For summer

Y

our own swimming pool and low maintenance backyard to enjoy the lazy days of summer. Four bedrooms, two full baths with a bright and light living room with fireplace, country kitchen with dining area and sliding glass doors for easy access to the covered patio and backyard. Close to downtown Calistoga to enjoy fine dining and shopping. $745,000

New ListiNg - CharmiNg home

L

ocated on a wonderful cul-de-sac in Calistoga. Easy living in this single level home just minutes to downtown. 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, Large living room with vaulted ceiling and a fireplace, spacious updated kitchen/dining area, 2 car attached. Covered outdoor space for entertaining. Side yard for gardening or RV storage. $799,000

New ListiNg

T

his Napa home is situated along the dead end street of an inviting neighborhood, this 2 bedroom 1 bath bungalow style home offers a newly remodeled bathroom, new instant water heater, spacious backyard and the chance to add your finishing touches. Attached garage offers a unique setup, plus detached storage shed ideal for office or workshop. $500,000

Sharon Carone, Broker 12 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

Darlene Brissard, Realtor

Brian Durnian, Broker

Ziggy Gutierrez, Realtor July 2020

new listing

1

4 acre +/- view estate building site with picturesque private lake and your own tennis court. Views of Mt. St. Helena. Gated road to the building site. Possibility to rebuild the two residences using the existing septic systems, water well and electric meters are in place. Great opportunity for a contractor with some vision.

Room for barn and horses. $775,000

Carneros estate Building site

B

eautiful 7.66 acre parcel located in the Carneros District. Oaks adorn the front of the property and most of the acreage is flat and usable. Ideal Estate building site with plenty of room for vineyards or horses. Attached map shows approx. 6+/- acres plantable. Small pond on property. Property backs up to the Carneros Inn. $1,629,000

new listing

L

arge living room w/cathedral ceilings, formal dining room, spacious kitchen with granite counters and newer stainless steel appliances. Great floor plan, master bedroom and the two guest bedrooms and bath are on opposite sides of the house. Wine cellar, beautifully landscaped yard w/ grape arbor and Hot Springs spa.

Great property for someone looking to buy a retirement home with a built in tenant. $835,000

Sharon Carone, Broker July 2020

Darlene Brissard, Realtor

Brian Durnian, Broker

Ziggy Gutierrez, Realtor DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 13

A live-work community designed by Craiker Architects & Planners.

HOW WILL WE LIVE AFTER THIS PANDEMIC? CHRIS D CRAIKER AIA/NCARB

T

he pandemic’s four months of shelterin-place may have changed our lifestyles and proximity to one another forever.

Not just where we stand, but where we will live. If we can’t maintain less than 6-feet social distancing, how will we live as neighbors, use public transportation, or go back to commuting or working side-by-side?

Our office environment is changing and while populations were previously moving from Suburbia back to cities, we now know close physical proximity expose us to danCHRIS gerous maladies.

CRAIKER The future will see multiple trends. Some experts predict smaller homes, micro-condominiums, and part-time commuter apartments. On the other hand, some speculate homeowners will want larger, more spacious, and tech-savvy homes. One survey showed tight spaces were the most common complaint of homeowners during the pandemic.

A recent Forbes report suggested some trends after this pandemic: 1. Technology and unique buildings will be high demand: People will move back to urban areas but only if they have a special home, not a cookie-cutter condo.

2. Converting existing offices and commercial spaces to living spaces will become highly desirable: With the current commercial slump, more standing inventory will be rehabilitated to living spaces.

3. While private outdoor spaces are 14 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

Images courtesy of Craiker Architects & Planners.

A small home designed by Craiker Architects & Planners.

desirable, a dedicated office space is a “musthave”: Dedicated home/office space, no matter how compact, will be future apartments latest amenity. Private decks, unusable from stored bicycles and clutter, will be passé.

4. Construction prices will rise with material and skilled labor shortages looming.

Already more people are moving to rural Central Valley communities, historically struggling with high unemployment and low community life. These burbs have heightened buyer interest by Bay Area residents anxious to eliminate commuting. Shelter-in-place has taught even plumbers they can accomplish a lot remotely.

In an updated housing report, new home purchases jumped 19% in late May, compared to a year earlier when the market was

still active.

While the pandemic’s toll on the real estate market was terrible initially, home purchases have exceeded 15% and home price appreciation is in the 5% range above the start of the shutdown. Interestingly, this turnaround appears mostly driven by first time buyers who are younger, more technologically savvy, and open to working remotely.

The other current trend, hastened by the pandemic, is Live/work or having a commercial-like office or studio in your home. Similar to home occupation permits common in most cities, Live/work is a perfect extension of remote working many of us are currently experiencing. While live/work used to be an urban fringe repurposing of tired old buildings, the trend is accelerating new communities. This is an ideal use for existing commercial or industrial zoned properties as the vacancy rises. More and more entrepreneurs will find a home combined with an office fits their lifestyle perfectly.

All this is good for realtors and sellers but the missing ingredient is affordable housing for the vast majority of working poor Americans. 40 million Americans cannot afford their own home and rent continues to climb beyond most incomes.

Our ability to match income with housing will be the greatest challenge coming out of this pandemic.

Chris D. Craiker, AIA/NCARB, is a Napa architect with Craiker Architects & Planners. He has been designing sustainable buildings for more than 40 years.

JULY 2020

F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S - S T E V E G R E G O R Y Contemporary “Plantable” View Estate

European Inspired Farmstead

Garden Studio

2049 North 3rd Avenue | Napa

1100 McCormick Lane | Napa

European inspired very private and gated mini farmstead. This single story 2 bed, 2 bath home is beautifully appointed and has been updated by a renowned Lifestyle design firm.

At 1,947 sq. ft., this modern country farmhouse with neighboring vineyard views includes a large attached garage with a vaulted ceiling possibly convertible to additional living space if desired. This beautiful property features a chef’s kitchen, 25” ceilings, hardwood and Limestone warm floors, and a multi-purpose loft. Masterfully designed gardens with multiple spaces designed for intimate and/or sizeable outdoor dining. And, last but not least, there is an appealing garden studio with an additional multipurpose loft and a nearby wash house with a half bath and shower. This is the perfect primary or secondary Wine Country escape!!

For additional details visit:

Spectacular close-in knoll top 15 acre estate with 360 degree views, approximately 5 acres of plantable hillside land surrounding a Gary Hansen designed contemporary classic 5,307 sq. ft., 6 bedroom, 4.5 bath residence including many custome architectural features found only in the Valley’s highest quality estates. Multiple additional knolls with full valley and adjoining vineyard views available for future development of a guest house and caretaker unit. Includes magnificent JackChandlerdesignedgroundsandoutdoorentertainingareaswithviews.

For additional details visit:

www.2049No3rdAve.com.

www.ContemporaryKnollTopEstate.com

$1,950,000 | Exclusive Listing

$5,795,000 | Exclusive Listing

Marketing enhancement tool provided by Steve Gregory Ferraris | Lamborghinis | Aston Martins

This Ferrari is one of a personal fleet of exotics provided by Steve Gregory to his clients for the purposes of photography and aerial video staging of the exteriors of his Napa Valley luxury home and estate listings. The sports car images enhance the perception of character and quality of his client’s listings as well as adding a level of intrigue for the prospective buyer! The use of these cars is also provided as a courtesy to Steve Gregory’s clients at the successful conclusion of any real estate transaction!

For further information please contact Steve Gregory

Over one half billion dollars in Napa Valley sales

STEVE GREGORY 707.495.1488 sgregory@cbnapavalley.com www.SteveGregoryNapa.com Lic. 01038915 July 2020

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 15

5

ways to help prevent home

cyberattacks

Brandpoint

BRANDPOINT Being home 100% of the time has become the new norm for many Americans, as social distancing is implemented in communities across the country to slow the rapidly spreading COVID-19 pandemic. Connected devices are being used virtually nonstop, as the homebound stream shows to binge watch and video chat with friends to help pass the time.

Unfortunately, most residential computing networks aren’t regularly maintained and monitored to protect against security breaches. This presents hackers with a virtual playground of which to take advantage.

“Cybercriminals are continuously looking for ways to exploit computer system vulnerabilities and home networks are popular targets because so many of our devices—phones, TVs, computers, even appliances—are connected to them,” said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance director of product management.

“Insurance companies provide solutions to help financially protect homeowners and renters if they fall victim to a cyberattack. There are also steps they 16 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

can take ahead of time to help prevent one from happening in the first place.”

Following are five tips to protect your home network— and the devices connected to it—from hackers.

POWER DOWN YOUR DEVICES This disables the internet connection, cutting off access to any personal information stored on your computer, tablet or phone. Unattended machines are easy targets for hackers, especially if you’re asleep.

SECURE YOUR WIRELESS NETWORK Information accessed on an open network, including email passwords and sensitive bank information, is fair game for hackers. Don’t make their jobs easier—protect your Wi-Fi network with a strong password that’s difficult to guess. Wireless routers that are issued by cable providers are typically assigned a network name and password that’s easily located on a label on the device itself. These can be changed using your online

account, so do this as soon as breaches. Chances are, if an possible for added security. update is recommended, hackers have already discovered a way to INVEST IN ANTIaccess your personal property MALWARE SOFTWARE and information, so keep your Ma l w a re — o r m a l i c i o u s software up to date. Set your software—can be installed on devices to install auto-updates your computer without your when possible. knowledge so hackers can damage your system, steal personal BEWARE OF information or restrict your PHISHING SCAMS access to extort money from Phishing scams aren’t new, you. Anti-malware software but hackers continually use helps protect against, detect more sophisticated email—and and remove malware, stopping even text messages—to trick cybercriminals from doing people into providing their perfurther damage. Also, avoid sonal information. Once again, downloading music or video do not click on the links or files from suspicious websites, attachments in messages from and clicking on links or email unknown senders. attachments in messages sent Li suggests homeowners and from unknown senders to help renters consider adding Home prevent malware from infiltrat- Cyber Protection to their existing your system. ing policies as an additional way to protect against hackers.

INSTALL “Even the most vigilant indiRECOMMENDED viduals can experience a cyberUPDATES security breach,” said Li. “HavSmartphone, computer, tab- ing coverage to help recoup let and smart TV manufactur- financial losses that are brought ers, among other providers of on by cyberextortion or stolen connected devices, offer peri- personal information can offer odic software updates to pro- peace of mind during an othertect against potential security wise stressful time.”

JULY 2020

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ST. HELENA REAL ESTATE NAPA VALLEY I SONOMA

NAPA VALLEY INDUSTRIAL FARMHOUSE

ONE LANE BRIDGE VINEYARD RANCH

A newly constructed, unparalleled estate perched on 10.93 +/- private acres with sweeping views. 6 total bedroom suites.

22 Acre ranch estate in the Western foothills of Napa. 11.06 +/acres planted to premium Cabernet Sauvignon. Mount Veeder AVA.

ST. HELENA

I

$16,950,000 I 861CONNVALLEY.COM

NAPA I $8,750,000 I ONELANEBRIDGEVINEYARD.COM MICHELLE WAGNER 707.637.3465 I Michelle.m.wagner78@gmail.com

MATT BJORNER 310.528.1768 I Mbjorner@gmail.com

CALISTOGA MODERN ESTATE RANCH

ST. HELENA COMPOUND

Enchan�ng private estate on 21.62 +/- acres. Features a main residence, pool / entertainment house & guest house with bocce court.

1 +/- acres luxury estate featuring a single level main residence, guest house, and 3-car garage with studio above.

CALISTOGA

I

$4,995,000

I

CALISTOGACOMPOUND.COM

ST. HELENA I $6,475,000 I NAPAVALLEYHOME.ORG

JACQUELINE WESSEL 707.738.7338 I Jacquelinenapavalley@gmail.com

JACQUELINE WESSEL 707.738.7338 I Jacquelinenapavalley@gmail.com

PRIVATE PARADISE ON MEADOWOOD LANE

TRANQUIL NAPA VALLEY ESTATE

Luxury residence on 1.60 +/- acres with spacious outdoor living space and open indoor floorplan. Detached garage with studio suite.

Private Napa Valley estate situate on 6.02 acres, just minutes to town and around the corner from Meadowood Resort.

ST. HELENA I $6,100,000 I

540MEADOWOODLANE.COM

MICHELLE WAGNER 707.637.3465 I Michelle.m.wagner78@gmail.com STHELENAREALESTATE.COM 1346 Main Street , St. Helena, CA I 707.967.9570 18 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

I

ST. HELENA I $5,600,000 I

SARAHSWAYESTATE.COM

MATT BJORNER 310.528.1768 I Mbjorner@gmail.com

BARRY BERKOWITZ 707.529.7406

LIC# 01026604 July 2020

ST. HELENA REAL ESTATE NAPA VALLEY I SONOMA

NEWLY REBUILT CALISTOGA COMPOUND

THE WINE WAY INN

Excep�onal single-level main residence with one a�ached bedroom unit and two newly-constructed co�ages. B&B License.

CALISTOGA

I $3,150,000

I

1503LAKE.COM

Turnkey established, profitable business with eight (8) well appointed guest rooms each with a private bath.

CALISTOGA

I $2,985,000

I

THEWINEWAYINN.COM

JACQUELINE WESSEL 707.738.7338 I Jacquelinenapavalley@gmail.com

JACQUELINE WESSEL 707.738.7338 I Jacquelinenapavalley@gmail.com

CHARMING ST. HELENA

DELIGHTFUL CALISTOGA RESIDENCE

Charming, updated 1,560 +/- SF home on almost 1/3 of an acre in Downtown St. Helena. Expansive backyard with limitless upside.

Deligh�ul 3 bedroom home in a great neighborhood featuring a wraparound porch, loads of windows and great floorplan.

ST. HELENA

CALISTOGA

I $1,400,000

GAIL MORGAN LANE 707.291.0156 I Gail0634@gmail.com

I $935,000

GAIL MORGAN LANE 707.291.0156 I Gail0634@gmail.com

IMMACULATE CALISTOGA RESIDENCE

SPACIOUS CALISTOGA RESIDENCE

Immaculate single level residence on .26 acres at the end of a quite cul-de-sac just a few blocks from Downtown Calistoga.

Well-maintained 1,702 +/- sf residence situated on a spacious lot with great outdoor space and room for pool. 3 total bedrooms.

CALISTOGA

CALISTOGA I $795,000

I $925,000

GAIL MORGAN LANE 707.291.0156 I Gail0634@gmail.com STHELENAREALESTATE.COM 1346 Main Street , St. Helena, CA I 707.967.9570

MATT BJORNER 310.528.1768 I Mbjorner@gmail.com I

LIC# 01026604

Brandpoint‌

4 TIPS TO PREVENT COSTLY

DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME BRANDPOINT ‌The sounds of birds chirping, longer daylight hours, and blooming trees and flowers are signs that warmer weather is on the way.

That means more time outside to enjoy nature, but it’s also a sign it might be time for a little maintenance as summer heats up.

“Now’s the time to check for potential home repairs and maintenance,” said Christopher O’Rourke, Mercury Insurance vice president of property claims.

“Minor home repairs can get your home in tip-top shape so you can enjoy it throughout the rest of the year.”

Here are four tips O’Rourke recommends to save some money down the road.

CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS‌ Gutters collect debris over time, especially when rain, snow and wind cause twigs, pine needles and leaves to settle on your roof and in your rain gutters.

Accumulated debris can create blockages that direct water into the home or, in areas without much precipitation, can act as kindling in the event of a fire.

Buildup also allows mildew and mold to develop, which can slowly decay a home’s exterior and roof.

“Preventable damage like mold or mildew that develops and rots a home’s exterior isn’t covered by homeowners insurance,” said O’Rourke. “It’s important to 20 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

routinely clean out gutters— even if you have gutter guards installed, they don’t completely protect against debris building up eventually. An hour or two spent cleaning or checking your gutters is time well spent compared to the alternative.”

TRIM BRANCHES AND REMOVE DANGEROUS TREES‌ Thunderstorm frequency picks up in summer months, and high winds can occur year round, so it’s best to get a jump on tree maintenance. Regularly trimming tree branches reduces their chance of breaking during a storm, which could cause power outages or property damage.

“Properly trimmed branches present a lower risk of falling onto your home, power lines or possibly injuring someone on your property,” said O’Rourke.

“Also, in areas that are prone to wildfires, trimmed trees create a buffer zone to help lower the chances of flames easily jumping onto your roof.”

Consider having the trees on your property inspected by an arborist to determine their health and have diseased trees removed before they topple over unexpectedly. Removal costs vary depending on height and difficulty but range from $100 to around $1,800. These preventative costs

consider purchasing an endorsement to their insurance policy to protect against losses of this nature.”

To be safe, homeowners should WATCH OUT FOR call 811 before digging so the utilSERVICE LINES‌ ity companies can send a locator Homeowners who want to to mark the approximate locations plant gardens, trees or install of underground service lines. additional landscape features to enhance their outdoor living SERVICE YOUR AIR space should be aware of poten- CONDITIONING UNIT‌ tial underground utility lines.

Regular maintenance of heatMost service lines—a network of ing, ventilation and air conditionexterior, underground utility lines ing (HVAC) systems is essential to or pipes that supply a home with ensure the equipment is in proper electricity, gas, water and sewer working order, which can save functions—are only buried a few money on energy bills, as well as inches beneath the ground. Acci- protect against expensive repair dentally hitting one when digging and replacement costs. can result in loss of service, expen“No one wants to unexpectsive repairs or a serious injury. edly find themselves living in If a break to a service line hap- a sauna during the dog days of pens on a homeowner’s property, summer, so have your air condispecial machinery may be needed tioner inspected,” said O’Rourke. to excavate pipes from beneath “You should also change your air the ground, which may require filter to make sure it’s operating at digging under your home, garden its highest efficiency, so when that or driveway. The homeowner is heat wave hits you’ll be nice and responsible for repair or replace- cool inside your home.” ment costs, and this damage can Have a professional inspect be inconvenient, expensive and your HVAC unit to make sure its isn’t covered by a standard home- exterior condenser coil and comowners insurance policy. pressor are clean and free from “The average cost to repair a blockages—the average cost for break to a service line is about an inspection is about $300. $5,000 and most Americans Your home will bring you wouldn’t welcome such a large security and joy for many years to surprise bill,” said O’Rourke. come. Taking the time to maintain “Homeowners should definitely it is well worth the investment.

are not covered by your homeowners policy but can be a wise investment that saves you time, money and anxiety.

July 2020

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Oakville Rutherford St. Helena Calistoga

DIS MA

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Yountville Park

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VE RA E B T B TS WE LD O MB HU

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Gates Estates Sotheby’s

Vineyard Park

INTERNATIONAL REALTY

SH WA

Yountville Chamber of Commerce

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YOUNTVILLE

July 2020

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 23

4 easy steps to a

chemical-free

backyard

Brandpoint

BRANDPOINT Because everyone is spending more time in their own backyards now, parents are wondering how to create healthier lawns for their families.

You might be surprised to learn that exposure to pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers can be harmful, particularly for growing children. This is why flags are posted after a yard is treated—they are warnings to keep children and pets away from dangerous chemical exposure.

Chemicals found in pesticides and other lawn products have been linked to asthma, organ damage and cancer, as well as neurological diseases and behavioral problems, according to the National Institutes of Health.

The safest approach for everyone, and the environment, is to go organic.

Stonyfield Organic yogurt has cared about where cows graze for the past 36 years. In 2018, Stonyfield Organic yogurt extended its mission beyond cows grazing fields to outdoor spaces where kids play, starting with the #PlayFree campaign to remove toxic pesticides from parks and playing fields. Now Stonyfield is helping families do the same for their own backyards.

you follow practical, proven organic lawn management techniques.

Follow these steps from Stonyfield Organic to transform your yard into a healthier environment for everybody.

— Grow insect-repellent plants like marigolds, lemongrass, fennel, basil or thyme — Hang a bird feeder for bug-eating birds — Hose visible bugs like aphids and caterpillars off plants

STOP USING PESTICIDES Because of the harm that can be caused by pesticides, it’s best to simply stop using them.

If you have nuisance insects in your yard, there are natural approaches to curbing them.

Pesticides kill both harmful and beneficial bugs, so you miss out on the benefits many “good” insects provide. Good bugs include dragonflies, honeybees, ladybugs and butterflies.

“Bad” bugs like grasshoppers, aphids, fire ants, grubs, snails, chiggers, centipedes and mosquitoes can harm your plants and annoy humans.

How can you reduce bad bugs without pesticides, while helping the “good bugs”?

— Plant flowers to support pollinators — Provide fresh water for good bugs and bug-killing birds — Add mulch to offer shade for plant-friendly insects — Use apple cider vinegar or cedar oil as bug repellent ORGANICALLY — Spray neem oil on infesMAINTAINED LAWNS tations MADE EASY — Repel mosquitoes with Having a chemical-free, crushed parsley, rosemary oil or healthy lawn is not difficult if citronella candles

TEST YOUR SOIL Most people apply lawn products without first determining what the soil actually needs.

Testing helps you discover the right balance, so your soil won’t be too acidic or too alkaline.

Many universities provide soil testing services at reasonable prices. Check your nearest university’s website for details.

Or turn soil testing into a fun family project. All you need is red cabbage, distilled water and the directions at Stonyfield. com/playfree/change-your-ownbackyard.

24 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

S W I TC H TO O RG A N I C FERTILIZERS Synthetic fertilizers are manufactured with fossil fuels and are salt-based. They directly feed plants, and can harm your soil.

Organic fertilizers feed the life in your soil, and the soil in turn will feed your grass or plants.

USE EFFECTIVE ORGANIC LAWN CARE TACTICS To achieve a lush lawn without chemicals, it helps to understand what grass needs to grow its best.

— Feed soil—Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients help your grass grow. But don’t feed without testing—the soil test will determine if your grass is getting what it needs from the soil.

— Mow high—Short grass is stressed grass. Most grass grows best at around 3 inches. This allows your grass to efficiently produce its own food, develop deep roots and withstand drought conditions.

— Mulch with grass clippings—Healthy soil will turn the grass clippings into the nutrients it needs.

— Water deep—Lawns love about an inch of water each week. In many areas, rainfall is plenty. Less frequent but deeper watering builds heartier, healthier roots. Water as needed but aim for no more than 3 times per week, and water in the early morning.

— Overseed—Spread a layer of grass seeds across your existing yard to help grow a green and lush lawn.

— Weeding—The best weed prevention is a healthy, thriving lawn. Thick grass blocks out sunlight that weeds need to grow.

Following these approaches can make your lawn beautiful as well as safer for your entire family.

For more helpful organic backyard gardening tips, visit Stonyfield.com/PlayFree.

JULY 2020

July 2020

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 25

NAPA YAJOME ST

YOUNT ST

VALLEJO ST NAPA ST

CLINTON ST

ST

ST ST Napa Visitors Bureau

Napa Chamber of Commerce

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SE CO N

ST

Napa Valley Wine Train

PEARL ST

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FIRST ST

FIRST ST China Point Park

ST SECOND ST

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TERRA FIRMA GLOBAL PARTNERS

1405 2nd St., Napa, CA (800) 681-1361

DR

ST

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OM CO

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Terra Firma

SCHOOL ST

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CL AY

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J I L L L E VY

SELLING NAPA VALLEY

R E A L T O R

4

BEDS

4

BATHS

4

1/2 BA

$6,950,000 Napa

1050 Olive Hill Lane European-inspired vineyard estate designed for indoor/outdoor living.

French doors, spacious great room, exposed beam ceilings, and a fireplace.

5

BEDS

3

BATHS

1

1/2 BA

$4,595,000 Napa

4268 East 3rd Avenue Pastoral vineyard estate located in the highly desirable Coombsville AVA on 5± acres. Stunning views with 1.6 ± acres of Cabernet Sauvignon.

3

BEDS

2

BATHS

$2,250,000 Napa

2707 Monticello Road | In Contract Beautiful single level home built in 2010 with extraordinary views of Mount Tamalpais. Solar powered/grid net positive home in private gated setting.

4

BEDS

4

BATHS

$6,950,000

1

Napa

1/2 BA

45 Hunter Ranch Road | In Contract Vineyard estate in a private/gated setting in coveted Oak Knoll AVA on 10.3± acres. Mostly single level custom built home with high-end finishes.

5

BEDS

$3,950,000

3

Napa

BATHS

2110 Penny Lane | In Contract Vineyard estate with sublime indoor/outdoor living with a fantastic outdoor entertaining area including a pool, olive trees, and Bordeaux vineyard.

5

BEDS

$2,750,000

4

Napa

BATHS

5160 Wild Horse Valley Road | Sold Quintessential farmhouse estate in private gated setting on east side of Napa in Coombsville AVA. 3BD main house with 2BD/2BA guest house.

Jill Levy, REALTOR® Real Estate Agent Lic. #01230055 Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty 780 Trancas Street, Napa, CA 94558 Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty Top Producer - #1 Agent by volume, Wine Country 2019

July 2020

707.479.9612 | J.Levy@ggsir.com NapaHomesAndEstates.com

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 27

REAL ESTATE IN THE NAPA VALLEY

CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS O ur global health crises hit commercial property values in April and May. Still, property sales are down considerably from this time last year, and investors are not finding the deals.

Property owners maintain a wait-and-see attitude when it comes to selling their investment property even BURT though they are POLSON underwater and not receiving rent payments.

Talk in commercial broker circles shows we may get sucker-punched coming August, though if you know what to look for, it may not be a surprise.

The end of July will bring about stimulus checks all but used up with little likelihood of a second round. The unemployment payments with the extra $600 will end as well as the moratorium on evictions. Then coming October, the six-month moratorium on mortgages and student loans will expire. The fourth quarter could be a disaster for our economy.

Until then, investors are looking

28 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

for great deals on undervalued real estate to invest. Many are turning to alternative real estate investments, which may prove to be the right decision today.

REITS (REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS) Many investors, including the big investment firms, are turning to REITs, which are securities back by real estate. Purchasing REIT shares is similar to buying stock in a mutual fund—you own shares of stock and not real estate.

You will find REITs hold real estate in specific property types or mortgages. It is strictly a hands-off, indirect approach to owning investment real estate.

Management teams of many REITs know what to look for as part of the dislocation of our market, with the result are experiencing good returns.

However, just like investing in the stock market, REIT share values can fluctuate with market conditions and adverse economic conditions. Unlike real estate in the

private sector held directly or in a partnership is not as volatile.

This form of investment is usually liquid and easily traded.

Real Estate CrowdfundingCrowdfunding comes in several forms: investing in a new product, raising money for a cause, and purchasing real estate.

Crowdfunding pools together funds from many investors, usually via a website, email, or social media.

Real estate crowdfunding used to be only for accredited investors but now removed this restriction as to the result of an easing of legislation. It allows an investor at any level to invest small amounts.

A crowdfunding campaign is usually for a specific development project or property.

Still, it could be for a fund that purchases multiple properties.

There are several companies online who operate crowdfunding campaigns and can result in a worthwhile

investment. You are placing your trust in the management team and their business model.

You do own shares of the project or fund. Unlike a REIT, it is not publicly traded, so you usually are in for a specified period. The share values do not fluctuate like stock or bonds and are not impacted as readily to market conditions. This is considered a long-term investment of a few years or longer.

Real estate syndications, private equity funds, and a few other types of direct investments will be highlighted in part two.

Burt M. Polson is the CEO of ACRESinfo.com, a commercial real estate brokerage company and CEO of StoneMarkerInvestments.com, a private equity real estate fund. Call him at (707) 254-8000 or email burt@ acresinfo.com and burt@stonemarkerinvestments.com.

JULY 2020

REAL ESTATE IN THE NAPA VALLEY

Consider alternative real estate investments

Burt Polson he savvy real estate investor makes their profit on the front end of their real estate investment purchase; purchase at a discount.

It could be challenging to find those deals today as many potential sellers seem to be holding out to see what is next for our economy.

Others may not have a choice and are getting pushed in a corner with unpaid rent and mortgage payments due. You need to know where to look.

There are three methods of investing in real estate: indirectly by owning shares of an entity created to hold the property, direct ownership, and holding “paper.”

In Part 1, we discussed two forms of indirect ownership of real estate, investing in REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts), and through crowdfunding.

In Part 2, we will discuss the third type of indirect ownership, private equity, as well as

T

the remaining two methods of investing in real estate: direct ownership and not owning the real estate at all, but rather promissory notes, deeds, or liens (paper).

StoneMarkerInvestments.com.

Direct ownership With direct ownership, an investor owns the real estate in their name, with a partner, or in an entity such as an LLC (limited liability company).

In using an entity, the investor owns shares and is a form of direct ownership because the investor is the managing member controlling the property.

If you are looking to take your alternative real estate investing one step further, consider a non-traditional type of real estate.

Self-storage facilities, student housing, and mobile home parks are all excellent performers. You will find alternative investments accessible not only as a direct investment but through several private equity funds, REITs and crowdfunding.

Private equity The third method of indirect ownership is through private equity funds. There are two types of private equity fund investing.

A syndication is for the purchase or development of a single property. The property is secured first, followed by the investors.

A blind pool fund secures the investors first and “pools” their funds in a trust account, followed by purchasing multiple investment properties.

In either case, the investor owns shares of the entity created rather than the property.

Keep in mind with either type of private equity fund; there are no guarantees of returns. If you are interested in learning Not owning real estate at all more about a blind pool fund, Tax liens, tax deeds, notes check out one I am starting at and deeds of trust are ways of

holding “paper” on a property rather than the property itself.

Tax liens and tax deeds are usually purchased through the county or state for unpaid taxes by the owner.

You may acquire a lien on a property that must be satisfied before an owner can sell, or you may purchase a deed where you own the property.

Owning a note or deed of trust is the investor acting as a lender. This investing could be a great way to earn stable returns without ever stepping foot in a property. You lend money for a return on your investment with the property as collateral.

Burt M. Polson is the CEO of ACRESinfo.com, a commercial real estate brokerage company and CEO of StoneMarkerInvestments.com, a private equity real estate fund. Call him at (707) 254-8000 or email burt@acresinfo.com and burt@stonemarker investments.com.

© Jittawit Tachakanjanapong | Dreamstime.com

JULY 2020

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 29

Life in the Avenues 5bd/3ba/3547’/2.2ac So close to downtown Napa, yet worlds away with elbow room spacious living, and a pool.

Monticello Park 3bd/3ba/2686’/.56ac Beautifully updated home on generous lot within a highly regarded neighborhood in East Napa.

Mark Lesti

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

$2.995,000

St. Helena Stunner 4bd/3ba/3643’ A breathtaking westside St. Helena Wine Country trophy property, this prized project shines from the hill with worldclass design, craftsmanship, and furnishings, exuding luxury at every turn.

Paul M. Everett

707.299.9949

707.299.9949

$2,395,000

Vineyard Estate 4bd/5ba/6698’ 12+ acre gated property minutes to downtown Napa with 7.8 acres Chardonnay and .09 acre Cabernet Sauvignon.

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

$7,800,000

$2,995,000

Beautiful B&B 7bd/8ba/4653’ This unique opportunity in Calistoga offers you a chance to be the Bed & Breakfast owner you’ve dreamed of in a region of unparalleled charm.

Paul M. Everett

707.320.8950

Silverado Estate 4bd/4ba/4730’/.65ac Spectacular views, main level living, entertaining back yard with pool and hot tub, in the Silverado Highlands.

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

$2,599,000

$3,500,000

(707) 226-1823 | 1030 Third Street, Napa | TheLestiTeam.com

WiNdermere Napa VaLLey properTieS iS a member of Who’S Who iN Luxury reaL eSTaTe aNd our LiSTiNgS are feaTured oN WWW.LuxuryreaLeSTaTe.com.

30 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

July 2020

Country Getaway 4bd/4ba/3320’/10ac’ Private, tranquil, exclusive country getaway on Napa’s east side near famed Stagecoach Vineyards, with main house, guest house, Workshop, Swimming Pool, and a 5-acre vineyard-ready plot with an already approved erosion control plan.

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

707.320.8950

Christine Lesti 707.320.8999 Lic#01854423

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

Silverado View 3bd/3ba/4063’ Bright and light architectural gem with large view windows everywhere in a private cul-de-sac high above $2,249,000 Silverado Country Club.

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

$2,075,000

$2,499,000

Eastside Entertainer 3bd/2.5ba/2301’/.31ac Multiple-level outdoor decks and patios, including hot tub, plumbed bar, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, updated kitchen, and more in a quiet, east-side cut-de-sac location.

Mark Lesti

Silverado Modern 4bd/4ba/3337’ Unique home full of striking details perched in the hills of Silverado Country Club.

Brown Valley Private

4bd/5ba/3672’/.88ac Silerado Single Level 3bd/3ba/2195’ Larger lot in Silverado Springs with Spacious, entertaining home with 1/3 acre remodeled Master Bedroom Suite, of Cabernet Sauvignon vines, Wine Cave, beautiful HOA common grounds, pool, garage workshop, and artist studio in an and tennis. elevated setting with mountain views.

Mark Lesti 707.320.8950 $1,150,000

$1,375,000 Mark Lesti

Mark Lesti 707.320.8950 Lic#01784430

707.320.8950

Hanan Kim 602.579.5927 Lic#01982155

$1,860,000

Paul M. Everett 707.299.9949 Lic#02016753

Sarah Peyton 707.339.2163 Lic#01869521

Ted Stumpf 707.246.9825 Lic#02020069

(707) 226-1823 | 1030 third street, napa | thelestiteam.com

Windermere napa Valley properties is a member of Who’s Who in luxury real estate and our listings are featured on WWW.luxuryrealestate.com.

Quiet Cul-de-Sac 4bd/3ba/2316’ Incredibly spacious and modern property on a street of beautiful homes in the prestigious west side of Browns Valley.

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

Silverado Condo 1bd/1ba/676’ Ground-Level Condominium in the Clubhouse Units at Silverado Country Club.

Opportunity Knocks 3bd/1ba/855’ Looking for your first home or an investment opportunity in Napa? This home could be either or both!

Mark Lesti

Mark Lesti Ted Stumpf

707.320.895

$515,000

$859,000

Silverado Cottage 1bd/1ba/739’ Ground-Level Condominium on the fairway in the Cottages at Silverado Country Club.

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

Mark Lesti

Paul M. Everett

707.299.9949

Gary Prince 707.227.7282 Lic#01735857

$925,000

$499,500

Panoramic View Lot 17 acres Build your dream home between Napa and Yountville on this special property elevated above Dry Creek Road (Viewshed Permit already obtained).

$749,000

North Napa Lot ~ 1 acre Level lot just north of Trancas with current RS-10 and RS-20 zoning.

707.320.8950 707.246.9825

707.320.8950

$1,250,000

Carneros Land 2.01 acres Two adjacent parcels sold together for your own design in the temperate Carneros AVA of Napa Valley.

Golf Course View Lot ~ 1 acre Elevated Lot looking back at the 5th Hole of famed Silverado Country Club North Golf Course.

Mark Lesti

Mark Lesti

Howard Giles 650.796.5195 Lic#01428277

707.320.8950

Christine Marek 707.226.1823 Lic#01730062

$875,000

Nick Valdivia 707.225.5810 Lic#01980975

707.320.8950

$725,000

Dean Castelli 707.694.8294 Lic#02113716

(707) 226-1823 | 1030 Third Street, Napa | TheLestiTeam.com

WiNdermere Napa VaLLey properTieS iS a member of Who’S Who iN Luxury reaL eSTaTe aNd our LiSTiNgS are feaTured oN WWW.LuxuryreaLeSTaTe.com.

5 time-saving tips for

FASTER CLEANUP this summer

W

BRANDPOINT

ith summer in full swing, backyards are the ultimate oasis for warmweather traditions like grilling or enjoying frozen treats and ice-cold drinks on the patio.

And after months distanced from friends, family and colleagues at home, the need to physically distance from chores and get outside is at an all-time high. Try these five tips to conquer kitchen cleanup, spend less time indoors and more time enjoying the summer sun: keep workstations clean. Clearing counters as you cook saves PLAN AHEAD, WITH time later and provides more SIMPLICITY IN MIND space for prepping, plating, Making a delicious meal and presenting. Keep a trash doesn’t mean having to use can and wet washcloth nearby every utensil and dish in your to quickly wipe surfaces and kitchen. Plan and prep ahead move on to the next step. to avoid a last-minute scramble Before serving the meal, or unnecessary use of dishes. load dirty prep items into the Experiment with sheet-pan dishwasher, leveraging its feaand one-pot meals, line baking tures to maximize space for sheets with parchment paper, fewer loads. Bosch dishwashor grill meals in foil packets ers have a loading solution for quicker cleanup. for nearly every gadget—from plastic ice pop trays and wine CLEAN AS YOU GO glasses to silicone straws— In true summer fashion, thanks to a third rack that many meals include easy-to- accommodates tough-to-place make staples like hot dogs and items like grilling tools, and watermelon. For days when the an adjustable middle rack that menu is more complex, take makes room for large serving a tip from the pro chefs and platters and sheet pans below.

JULY 2020

sanitize functions often reach far beyond this temperature.

SAVE TOWELS FOR HANDS, NOT DISHES Ninety percent of Americans unnecessarily use a manual drying step after their dishwasher cycle is complete. It’s time to say goodbye to hand-drying dishes! Bosch dishwashers with CrystalDry ensure dishes emerge as perfectly dry as they are clean, Brandpoint photos using a naturally occurring mineral that transforms moisture SKIP PRE-RINSING, into heat up to 176 degrees.

WASHING AND This added layer of heat delivSANITIZING DISHES ers drier dishes, even plastics, so

BY HAND items are ready to be put away Feeling wishy-washy about once the cycle is complete. doing the dishes by hand?

Despite popular belief, hand GET SMART AND washing actually uses about 27 STAY CONNECTED gallons of water per load on Smart appliances help autoaverage, while an energy-effi- mate the mundane, making it cient dishwasher uses three to easier to tackle chores. Master six. And, after scraping excess doing the dishes using a dishfood off your plate, skip the washer equipped with the Home pre-rinse before loading—food Connect, which enables users to particles give dishwasher deter- start a cycle remotely, monitor gent something to stick to! its progress and receive updates, Proper sanitization is also all from the convenience of tough to achieve when washing a smart device. In addition, by hand since the water needs to avoid trips to the store for dishexceed at least 140 degrees to kill washer detergent, thanks to bacteria. The great news? Nor- partners that can automatically mal cycles on most dishwash- reorder detergent tabs when ers meet this requirement and running low.

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 33

NAPA’S LOAN RANGER

My

COVID-19

testing experience

‌O

n Monday, June 8, I received a Nixle alert from the Napa County Office of Emergency Services (OES).‌ ‌Most likely, so did everyone else here in Napa County. The advisory specifically stated that COVID-19 testing is encouraged. It went on to say that “as Napa County begins to reopen, testing is encouraged for all adults that live or work in Napa County”. After reading this alert, I felt obligated as an adult who both lives and works here in Napa County to continue reading and really think about what this meant.‌ CHRIS In addition, the alert proSALESE vided an update on the testing procedure itself, which has been changed to a “less invasive nasal swab that is equally effective in detecting COVID-19”.‌ Furthermore, the alert emphasized that testing “confirms whether an individual actively has COVID-19 and may be spreading the virus without symptoms.”‌ Lastly, the OES posted that testing is “a

34 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

key data point for the State of California and ongoing testing to identify cases early that will help Napa County continue to remain safely open and prevent the spread of illness.”‌ As an adult, parent and business owner here in our community, it was time that I responsibly followed the instructions of the OES. That said, I clicked on the link provided in the alert. The online assessment and registration instructions were relatively straight-forward to complete. However, I couldn’t help but think about all of those who might have started this process and not finish it because they became frustrated with the steps involved. I mean, how many times have you bailed on an online shopping cart or home loan application experience? It happens.‌ I scheduled my testing appointment for an early afternoon spot at a local testing center here in town. I received an email confirmation with a link to a great video to watch that which gave me a preview of what to expect before I arrived.‌ Upon arrival, I was greeted exactly as it showed in the video. In fact, each step of the onsite testing process was mirrored

perfectly to the video by the workers who performed their required tasks. I think the OES should draw more attention to this video and promote it to help educate the public on what to ‌expect.‌ After a brief wait in line, it was my turn.

The do-it-yourself nasal swab provided was super small and the test kit didn’t take long at all to complete. It was painless. In four days, I received my results, which were negative. During this time, I kept thinking about how much faster and easier it would be if there was an app you can download to register for the test via facial recognition instead. We already use this for access as a password to our phone, online banking and all sorts of other high-security personal websites we use to manage our life. The more we test, the quicker we get the results, the better chance we have at staying open as a community.‌ Chris Salese can be reached at chris@ delsurmortgage.com or 707-363-4439. He is a licensed California mortgage lender (LO NMLS #254469 — CA-DBO #254469 Corp NMLS #1850 Equal Housing Opportunity.

July 2020

FULL TIME PROFESSIONALS ENGAGED LEADERSHIP COLLABORATIVE TEAM MARKET LEADERS

Take Care.

Right now, nothing is more important than the well being of you and yours.

THE LOCAL CHOICE FOR REAL ESTATE Even in these challenging times, buyers are still buying, and sellers are still selling. Our team is educated and ready to help you navigate this sensitive market.

TFGPrealestate.com

Create an outdoor getaway

IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD BRANDPOINT ‌We all need a place to retreat, relax and detach from stress and anxiety.

One of the best ways to achieve that space is by spending time immersed in a backyard or gardening project. Studies show these pastimes can be very effective in reducing stress, partly because they produce such satisfying results, and partly because they require us to focus on nature instead of ourselves.

This season, RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) TM is sharing tips on how to cultivate your own backyard sanctuary with help from proven methods and professionals: FOLLOW AN INTEGRATED APPROACH‌ Most yards are subject to weeds and pests at one time or another — that’s just part of being a homeowner. When it comes to controlling those nuisances, you’ll want to follow a balanced approach, known by professionals as Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM may sound complicated but it is pretty simple. IPM takes a balanced approach to the use of EPA-approved pesticides and fertilizers paired with preventative practices to confidently control home and lawn issues today and prevent their return tomorrow. Remember IPM as a three-step process to find, solve and prevent: — Find the source of your home or lawn problem.

— Solve in a way that aligns with your time, expertise and situation.

— Prevent it from happening again by taking care of areas in your yard that could invite the problem to return.

— When using EPA-approved products, remember to 36 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

treatment and weed control Landscaping services can design and refresh your layouts for more pleasing curb appeal Pest control services offer seasonal maintenance for both your home and your outdoor spaces

Brandpoint‌ photos

follow label directions every time with everything from determinfor long-lasting results. ing the plants that grow best in their climate, to deciding the KNOW WHEN TO type of soil and products to use.”

CALL IN THE PROS‌ If you need advice or help with In many cases, enlisting pro- the nitty-gritty, don’t hesitate to fessionals to help create and hire the following experts who maintain your outdoor sanctuary can step in to help with design can be the ticket to a safe and and logistics while practicing safe healthy outdoor space. social distancing.

“While many people have an idea of what they want their out- MOWING SERVICES door space to look like, it can be OFFER REGULAR difficult to know where to start,” MOWING, EDGING said Larry Wilson, Owner of AND TRIMMING‌ Lawrence Landscape Design and Lawn care services provide RISE member. “That’s where we seasonal upkeep for healthy and come in. Lawn and landscape pro- maintained grass with methods fessionals can help homeowners such as aeration, pre-emergent

BLOCK THE BITE‌ With focused planning, your backyard can become your “happy place” — a haven of calm and comfort and an ideal place for spending quality time with your family. Once you’ve established that haven, it’s time to protect it. Take proactive steps to ward off biting insects like ticks and mosquitoes that can spread harmful diseases such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus.

Remove standing water around your outdoor living space and mow your grass regularly to reduce areas where ticks and mosquitoes can live. Don’t forget to put up personal barriers, too, by using EPA-approved bug repellent to keep ticks and mosquitoes away. Look for bug repellents with DEET, Picaradin, IR355 or other EPA-approved active ingredients recommended by the CDC as proven and effective.

Apply and re-apply according to label directions while outdoors.

Call your local professional applicator for more region-specific information on how to stop ticks and mosquitoes, like treating the perimeter of your yard and home. Their local and community expertise can increase the likelihood of stopping pests and preventing their return.

Ready to design an outdoor space you can enjoy all season long? Make plans now to create a family-friendly refuge that will be a source of calm and comfort for all who enter. Visit www.DebugtheMyths.com to learn more.

July 2020

BATHROOM REMODEL

4CUSTOMIZE QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU

BRANDPOINT

‌Choosing a home is strongly influenced by the layout and appearance of its bathrooms. But no matter how long you’ve lived in your home, there are bound to be improvements you’d love to make. And almost everyone needs options for optimizing bathroom space.

Before remodeling, it’s best to think through your plan. Unless you’re selling your house immediately, don’t make the mistake of considering resale value alone.

Take a good look at how you use the room, paying attention to what’s working—and what’s not.

Ask yourself about daily issues that bother you before committing to a major overhaul. Be sure any changes you make will solve your problems or enhance your experience of the room.

To help you find things even at night, the interior light of the cabinet turns on when the door is opened and shuts off when the door is closed.

DOES ANYONE USE THE BATHTUB?‌ If baths are popular in your household, upgrading your tub can have a big impact. For spacious bathrooms, standalone tubs are trending in bathroom design. But for those with limited space, a large tub may not be an option.

If the tub is not used in your home, switching to a high-quality shower set-up instead could increase your bathroom’s functionality—and make better use of the space. Today’s choices are customizable and even high tech, so it’s worth exploring your options.

DO YOU JUST WANT A MORE BEAUTIFUL SPACE?‌ Consider minor changes to your bathroom that can transform your experience.

When was the last time you painted the room?

A fresh, bright color can really improve any size space.

Biophilic design is on trend, which just means making your interior spaces greener and more natural.

Incorporating colors found in nature, plus adding natural elements such as houseplants, can make any room feel more peaceful and livable. Consider plants that thrive on warmth and humidity when “greening up” your space.

For more information on enhancing your bathroom, visit Robern.com.

HOW’S THE LIGHTING?‌ Do you find yourself mis-applying makeup, or have trouble putting in contacts or performing other tasks? Do you think you look different in other mirrors than the mirror in your own bathroom? Having a welllit, clear mirror makes all the difference. Mirror lighting on cabinets is also a great option.

For additional lighting improvements, consider adding pendant or chandelier lighting, which provides great overhead light without taking up much space.

Brandpoint‌ photos

outlets for all your gadgets.

Here are some options for rethinking your storage.

Vanities: Robern’s Cartesian Collection offers customizable options in a range of colors and textures. You can purchase modular units that can be ganged or stacked to fit a variety of spaces, as well as to accommodate existing plumbing.

Their vanity drawers have white shatter-proof glass bottoms that dissipate heat, allowing hot items like hair dryers or IS THERE curling irons to be stored withENOUGH STORAGE?‌ out fear of leaving heat marks.

Unless you have a newer You can choose an LED night home, chances are you do not light feature to illuminate drawer have enough storage space—or interiors, and in-drawer electrical July 2020

outlets f o r powering your electronic grooming gadgets.

Cabinets: For stylish and innovative modular wall cabinet options, the Robern Uplift Tech Collection is designed with a vertically opening door, which you can open as low or as high as needed.

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 37

Wine Country real estate markets described as frenzied GERRETT SNEDAKER, CRB ‌Sales remained very active in all Wine Country Markets in June. It’s nearly a straight line up since April for new sales. Still, for the “COVID” period – March through June – we remain slightly behind sales volume compared to last year. Prices are climbing in most markets.

GERRETT The months of SNEDAKER inventory is below one month in several of our markets. The market has been described as “frenzied” by some agents with whom I have spoken.

We still have no Open Houses – showings are by appointment only with strict cleaning protocols between showings. property goes into “pending” (all conditions removed) status. On average, it can take anywhere Napa County‌ from 0 to 30 additional days for The inventory of homes and properties to close after going condominiums available for sale pending. The median price of in Napa County at the end of the 101 homes closed in June in June (380) is 21% below the Napa County ($714,000) is 2% inventory in June 2019 (478) ahead of the median price of a and it is 5% below the inventory year ago ($700,000). Over the last month (398). Fifty-seven past four months, Napa County percent of the inventory in Napa homes are selling at roughly 91% County (199 properties) is priced of original list price. at $1,000,000 or above. New sales (191) are 34% ahead of the Napa County pace of last year (143) and are Luxury Homes‌ 63% ahead of the 117 sales last month. Despite strong sales in If one takes the highest May and June, total sales over the quartile (25%) of available inven“COVID period” March through tory as the “Luxury Market”, June are down roughly 12% from the Luxury Market begins at the same period last year. There is $2,700,000 in Napa County at a 2.0 months supply of inventory this time. This is a large jump up based on the current sales pace. from $2,000,000 last month. The The Days on Market for homes number of closings (46) of Luxclosing in Napa County is curury Homes (sales price in excess rently 69 days. For the purpose of $2,700,000) in Napa County for the period 7/1/19 to 6/30/20 of our MLS (BAREIS) “Days compared to 45 closings in the on Market” represents the time period 7/1/18 to 6/30/19. There from when the property is first listed in the MLS to the date the are 96 luxury homes in inventory 38 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

they were 61% ahead of the pace of last month (75). There is a 1.7 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace.

The Days on Market for the 64 closings last month was 56 days.

The median price of the homes that closed in the City of Napa in June was $745,000. This is 2% below the median price of the homes closed in June 2019 ($757,000).

Up Valley Napa County‌ The inventory of homes and condominiums for sale in the Up Valley Napa County market (Angwin, Calistoga, Deer Park, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena and Yountville) at the end of June (138) is 17% below the level of at the end of June 2020 com167 in June 2019 and it is 5% pared to 105 at the end of June above the inventory last month 2019. There were 9 new Luxury (132). There were 38 new sales Home sales in June compared this month compared to 26 a year to11 last year and 7 last month. ago and 18 last month. There This results in a 10.7 months is now a 3.6 months supply of supply of available Luxury Homes inventory based on the current based on the current sales pace sales pace. The Days on Market compared to a 2.0 months supfor the 16 closings last month was ply for the County as a whole.

125 days. Approximately 63% Days on market for the 9 luxury of the Luxury Market inventory homes sales in June was 103 (price in excess of $2,700,000) days. Over the past four months, in Napa County is in the Up Napa County Luxury Homes are Valley Market (60 homes). There selling at roughly 86% of original was one luxury home (price in list price. excess of $2,700,000) closing in the Up Valley Market last month and there were 3 new luxury Napa‌ home sales.

Fifty-three percent of the inventory in Napa County is in For additional information the City of Napa. There are 203 please contact Gerrett Snedaker available homes and condominiat 707-939-2009 or gsned@ ums in inventory at the end of winecountrygroup.com June in the City of Napa. This is 19% below the supply at the Gerrett Snedaker, CRB, is a Broend of June 2019 (249) and it is ker/Partner with Better Homes 5% below the inventory at the and Gardens Real Estate|Wine end of last month (213). New Country Group. Contact Gerrett sales (121) were 20% ahead of at gerry.snedaker@winecounthe pace of June 2019 (101) and trygroup.com or 707-939-2009.

July 2020

Searching for a new home? You can start here.

NapaValleyRegister.com/homes Pick your beds, baths, price and neighborhood and we do the search for you!

NAPA COUNTY’S LATEST HOME SALES* Address

record dAte

sAle Price

Bed BAth sq ft Yr Blt

American Canyon 176 BROPHY ST 132 FOLLAND DR 331 LOS ALTOS 116 HEARTFORD WAY 15 ENTRADA CIR 23 BLACK DUCK CT 781 HUNTINGTON WAY 118 TUSCAN OAK TRL 300 CANTADA CT 1811 WOOD DUCK CT

Single Family

4/13 4/3 4/1 4/1 4/8 4/16 4/7 4/6 4/14 4/13

$360,000 $455,000 $460,000 $559,000 $565,000 $571,500 $610,000 $652,500 $750,000 $770,000

4 3 3 3 3 5 4 5 4 4

2 1 2 3 2 3 3 4 4 3

Calistoga 1717 MAGGIE AVE

1969 1971 1955 1988 2004 2004 1992 2006 2011 2004

Single Family

3/30

$755,000

3

2

Napa 2149 DELPHA DR 610 S MINAHEN ST 73 BELLEVUE AVE 2796 ZELLER AVE 2461 PACIFIC ST 3221 BEARD RD 4423 MEADOWLARK DR 2743 IDAHO ST 1921 OLD SONOMA RD 3517 BECKWORTH DR 3725 WILLIS DR 2350 STONEHOUSE DR 3512 CASCADE ST 3876 CAVENDISH CT 2407 MACLEAN ST 3469 MEADOWBROOK DR 2725 STILES CT 472 CROSS ST 3100 ENCANTO DR 16 WALKABOUT LN 7 WHITE FIR CT 1927 SECOND ST 627 CUNARD DR 1135 MORNINGSIDE DR 3408 DEERFIELD CT 11 LEMON CT 210 RANDOLPH ST 1930 SPRUCE ST 4 SKYCREST WAY 3307 LINDA MESA WAY 2194 EUCLID AVE 418 BROWN ST 2130 RANCH CT 131 FIRST ST 1422 MEEK AVE 495 MONTGOMERY ST 221 MONTE VISTA DR 1033 ROSS CIR

1,416 1,024 1,100 1,625 1,923 3,301 2,467 3,172 2,999 3,796 1,614

1985

Single Family

3/23 4/1 4/3 3/27 4/1 4/7 3/30 4/20 3/20 4/2 4/21 4/17 4/17 4/17 4/22 4/22 4/10 4/3 3/27 4/10 4/23 4/1 4/13 4/3 3/6 4/7 4/10 4/10 4/7 4/20 4/8 4/16 4/10 3/16 4/17 4/29 4/17 4/2

$225,000 $432,000 $510,000 $510,000 $515,000 $565,000 $570,000 $593,500 $600,000 $627,000 $629,000 $645,000 $650,000 $669,000 $685,000 $689,000 $715,000 $720,000 $735,000 $785,000 $789,000 $795,000 $800,000 $825,000 $836,000 $849,000 $899,000 $905,000 $950,000 $950,000 $970,000 $970,000 $1,040,000 $1,130,000 $1,198,000 $1,295,000 $2,000,000 $2,499,000

3 3 2 3 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 3 2 4 4 4 3 2 3 4 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 3 4

1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 3 2 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 3 4 2 4 2 2 3 2 2

1,106 1,268 1,017 1,140 875 1,172 1,060 1,340 1,375 1,079 1,509 1,330 1,441 1,532 1,118 1,645 1,310 1,703 1,818 1,506 1,841 1,066 2,474 2,137 2,128 2,178 1,442 1,710 2,499 2,128 2,362 1,556 2,830 1,901 2,077 2,408 2,440 2,618

1954 1955 1941 1955 1943 1962 1973 1951 1941 1956 1963 1984 1969 1968 1961 1965 1968 1920 1950 1998 1994 1920 1971 1986 1982 1983 1975 1946 1988 1980 2018 1900 2006 1910 1941 1930 1952 1966

Address

record dAte

sAle Price

Bed BAth sq ft Yr Blt

St Helena 1225 KEARNEY ST

Single Family

4/17

$650,000

2

1

1,044

1946

4/8

$1,800,000

1

2

1,686

1991

1706 SPRING ST

Yountville

Single Family

1931 VINTNER CT

4/16

$1,050,000

3

2

1,292

1988

1986 ADAMS ST

4/17

$2,100,000

4

3

2,715

2006

5 STAGS VIEW LN

2/14

$2,100,000

3

4

2,258

Napa 50 BELVEDERE CT

1999 Condos

2/13

$147,000

3

2

1,257

1979

1600 ATLAS PEAK RD #449

4/2

$368,500

2

2

988

1968

124 GOLDEN GATE CIR

4/22

$383,000

2

2

864

1991

1056 MARINA DR

4/21

$389,000

2

2

943

1974

3526 SHELTER CREEK DR

4/13

$415,000

3

3

1,315

1972

3550 SHELTER CREEK DR

4/20

$425,000

3

2

1,350

1972

1046 SHETLER AVE

3/27

$500,000

2

3

1,390

1990

4/3

$556,500

3

3

1,239

1993

22 FOUNTAIN GROVE CIR

4/23

$560,000

2

2

1,481

1988

65 FAIRWAY DR

4/20

$759,000

2

2

1,126

1970

588 MAIN ST #217

3/30

$806,000

1

1

948

2009

310 ALTA MESA CIR

5/14

$1,215,000

3

3

2,670

46 AVALON CT

St Helena 1357 ST JAMES DR

1999 Condos

4/17

$600,000

1

2

American Canyon

1,309

1982

Rural Residential

2120 AMERICAN CANYON RD

4/10

$1,575,000

3

3

2,364

1979

2000 AMERICAN CANYON RD

3/30

$1,750,000

2

3

2,601

2006

4/22

$1,295,000

3

3

Angwin 884 PONDEROSA DR

Rural Residential

Berryessa 1148 RIMROCK DR

4/20

$300,000

2

2

Calistoga 3150 PALISADES RD

2,242

1965

Rural Residential

1,188

2002

Rural Residential

11/5

$675,000

2

2

Napa

1,024

1979

Rural Residential

1424 COOMBSVILLE RD

4/15

$750,000

3

2

1,950

1952

1180 SECOND AVE

4/10

$1,700,000

3

1

1,624

1937

$504,000

3

2

1,412

1989

Pope, Chiles, Wooden Valleys 255 COUNTRY CLUB LN

4/17

1830 CAPELL CROSS RD

Rural Residential

4/6

$700,000

3

2

1,956

1985

220 LONG RANCH RD

12/31

$1,400,000

3

2

4,258

2003

90 OAK SPRINGS DR

4/8

$1,830,000

5

4

5,275

1971

Southern County/Carneros 1291 THOMPSON AVE

Rural Residential

4/7

$1,300,000

3

2

1,938

1958

Find Your Napa Valley

Dream Home

NapaValleyRegister.com/homes

What’s behind your

walls?

Brandpoint‌

BRANDPOINT ‌When it comes to keeping your family and home safe, you’re probably familiar with the most common household hazards that can occur. And chances are you have taken precautions to prevent most hazards by installing devices like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers.

But what about the dangers you can’t see? Hazards created in places like attics, basements, or even less visible spots like behind walls can cause significant home damage or health dangers if not addressed.

Consider these suggestions for addressing several hidden hazards in your own home that may be out of sight but shouldn’t be out of mind.

IS IT TIME TO CHECK FOR RADON RISK?‌ Because radon gas is colorless, odorless and tasteless, it can easily be overlooked. Yet high levels of the naturally occurring gas in the home can be carcinogenic over time.

42 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends checking radon levels at least every two years as radon flow can increase over a timescale longer than a year.

With that in mind, it’s important to get a radon test kit to determine whether your radon levels are problematic. If so, you will need to look into mitigation—which can be as simple as adding ventilation to your attic or sealing cracks in your foundation.

ARE YOUR WATER PIPES STABLE?‌ We don’t always see or regularly inspect our pipes. A leaking pipe in your home may just seem like another annoyance, but if not addressed immediately, it can cause significant damage to floors, ceilings and furniture and may even attract bugs. Leaks almost always happen at the pipe joints. While tape and fillers can help address a leak temporarily, you’ll need a plumber’s help to replace a pipe for a more permanent fix.

TWO STEPS THAT MAY HELP PREVENT LEAKING PIPES:‌ — If your home is older, ask your plumber if you have galvanized or polybutylene pipes; those materials may have eroded over time and could eventually fail.

— If you live somewhere that gets extremely cold in the winter, allow cold water to drip slowly and continually from each faucet and keep your thermostat at the same temperature 24-7.

ARE YOU AWARE THAT ARC-FAULTS CAN CAUSE ELECTRICAL FIRES?‌ A term many homeowners may be unfamiliar with is arcfault, a malfunction in electric wiring circuits that can be caused by loose connections or damaged cords. An arc-fault may occur when a homeowner accidentally damages an electrical wire by driving a nail into a wall or pinching a cord under furniture.

That damaged wire can become a significant hazard, generating heat of up to 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit that could potentially spark

an electrical fire within wood framing or insulation. *In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), local U.S. firefighters responded to about 35,000 home electrical fires annually between 2012-2016 attributed to electrical distribution and lighting equipment.

Fortunately, the threat of arc-faults and electrical fires can be significantly reduced by the simple installation of Leviton’s SmartlockPro AFCI outlet. A best-seller among Leviton’s highly effective portfolio of electrical safety devices for the home, AFCI outlets are designed to prevent electrical fires by interrupting your power when a dangerous arc is detected.

Staying on top of these and other potential hazards in your home can keep your family safe from harm and protect your property from damage now and in the future. Ask your local plumber to examine leaks, learn more about potential radon issues at EPA.gov and turn to www.leviton.com/ electricalhero for more tips on how to prevent electrical fires.

July 2020

CAN I AFFORD A NEW HOME? Calculate your Mortgage NapaValleyRegister.com/homes

The simple guide to

buying a toilet BRANDPOINT ‌The bathroom is arguably the most visited room in the home. Having a toilet that performs well, is easy to use and aesthetically pleasing is essential in any size home.

When shopping for a new toilet, you might be surprised how many options exist. To find the right toilet for your needs, here are some top considerations to guide you: PIECES‌ Toilets typically come in one or two pieces. A two-piece is the traditional design that is easy to install into any size bathroom. Sometimes toilets are designed to be one piece, which may be more difficult to move and install. However, the one piece is intended to simplify cleaning.

FUNCTION‌ You need a toilet that works the way it’s intended. This means an efficient flush that dependably removes waste. Research the technology the toilet features. For example, the Sterling Valton Toilet features Proforce Plus with a jetted flush that provides three times more power than previous designs for a clean bowl after every use.

COLOR‌ While toilets come in many colors, classic white is by far the most popular color with the broadest availability. This traditional hue is crisp, clean and visually appealing, whether you have a modern style or lean more traditional.

WATER USE‌ Reduce your water footprint and lower 44 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

utility costs by getting the optimum flush option for your needs.

Sterling Valton Toilets, for example, come in 1.28 and 1.6 gallons per flush models. There is also a dual-flush 1.28/1.0 gallons per flush option, which allows you to select the flush for solids or liquid waste only.

DESIGN‌ Round bowls offer traditional design and save space. Elongated bowls are more modern and easier to use for some people. The Sterling Valton toilet series offers both round and elongated designs, plus a specially designed Comfort Height Elongated model. This ADA-compliant toilet is designed at chair height to make it easy to sit down and get up.

ROUGH-IN SIZE‌ A toilet is mounted on a hole in the bathroom floor. The distance from the wall to the center of the hole is called the

Brandpoint‌

rough-in and can be 10, 12 or 14 inches. Check your rough-in before purchasing a new toilet to ensure a proper fit. The Sterling Valton Toilet has a simple three-bolt installation with a standard 12-inch rough-in.

PRICE POINT‌ Toilet costs can vary greatly depending on brand, features and availability. Getting a high-quality toilet at an affordable price point is a priority for most people.

Shop around to find the best option for you.

The bathroom is used frequently in a home, and a new toilet can enhance the visual appeal of the space while also providing a comfortable experience with an efficient design. To learn more, visit www. sterlingplumbing.com.

July 2020

DISTINCTIVE ®

PROPERTIES Find us on Facebook

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The Perfect Pairing Napa County Wine and Your Outdoor Kitchen Setting the standard for outdoor living Stainless steel cabinetry for countless design options, storage and organization

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LIVE WINE COUNTRY

3

BEDS

2

BATHS

$1,495,000

1

Napa

1/2 BA

199 Kaanapali Drive Live on one of Silverado's most popular streets along the 11th fairway of the south course with golf cart/pedestrian access to all amenities. Beautifully remodeled single level home on a pristine creekside lot.

3

BEDS

2

BATHS

$975,000

1

Napa

1/2 BA

209 Silverado Springs Drive Silverado Residential Community home in a beautiful park-like setting with acres of manicured grounds. This open and spacious Chardonnay Model sits on a desired upper green belt location with western sunset views.

Gary Rose, REALTOR® Real Estate Agent | Lic. #00940226 Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty 707.529.5174 | G.Rose@ggsir.com GaryRose.GoldenGateSIR.com

5

BEDS

$1,075,000

3

Napa

BATHS

216 Old Vine Way Wonderfully spacious north Napa home located at the end of Old Vine Way close to amenities and shopping with a warm and cozy feel. Generous entertaining and living spaces and low maintenance back yard.

4

BEDS

$849,500

3

Napa

BATHS

80 Black Walnut Lane One of 7 newly constructed homes within Black Walnut Estates, a private enclave of designer homes. This home offers a loft/office area, a lower bedroom and bathroom, master suite with study and double vanity.

Brian Gross, REALTOR® Real Estate Agent | Lic. #01908361 Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty 707.337.3689 | Brian.Gross@ggsir.com BrianGross.GoldenGateSIR.com

Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty Top Producers - Wine Country 2019 Real Trends, The Thousands - Top one-half percent of the nation’s real estate professionals for teams by volume, California 2019