A Wine Country Lifestyle Magazine
Cover photo courtesy of Jill Levy Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty
JUNE 2020 | VOLUME 37, ISSUE 6
Cover property information on page 29
A publication of Napa Valley Publishing Company JUNE 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 1
Discover the difference with us. GoldenGateSIR.com | 707.255.0845 2 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020
We’re leading Real Estate in: Health and Safety Virtual Solutions Tech and Innovation Exclusive Inventory Agent Productivity Local Expertise Global Reach
June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 3
3630NapaValleyParadise.com
$6,950,000
4447VineyardEstate.com
$6,900,000
Local Experts
Innovative Global Marketing YVONNE RICH Exclusive Estates
fabulousnapavalley.com
2900SpringMountain.com
$29,800,000
YVONNE RICH 707-968-9888 yvonne@fabulousnapavalley.com 1338 MAIN STREET
FOLLOW US
ST. HELENA
CA
BRE#01045780
1325Crestmont.com
$1,595,000
1362Stockton.com
$1,995,000
Local Experts
Innovative Global Marketing YVONNE RICH Exclusive Estates
fabulousnapavalley.com
2650Greenwood.com
$1,825,000
TuscanNapaValley.com
$1,800,000
YVONNE RICH 707-968-9888 yvonne@fabulousnapavalley.com 1338 MAIN STREET
FOLLOW US
ST. HELENA
CA
BRE#01045780
In this issue
18
JUNE 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
39
44
11
Calistoga map
14
Chris d Craiker: Escaping the pandemic by living off the grid
16
St. Helena map
18
Zing up your menus with a tasty summer garnish garden
20
Five ways to go green and stay comfortable at home
21
Yountville map
26
Burt Polson: A look back: the groovy 70s
27
Napa map
34
Napa’s Loan Ranger Chris Salese: Can deferred mortgage payments help you?
36
Four ways a smart home can save you money
39
Sophisticated soak: 3 stylish ways to add a freestanding bathroom tub
42
Gerrett Snedaker: ‘Urban Flight Syndrome’ affects Wine Country Real Estate Markets
44
From victory gardens to garage greatness: 5 big jobs to tackle for summer 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
PREMIER NAPA VALLEY REAL ESTATE
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
©
A Wine Country Lifestyle Magazine
1615 Soscol Avenue, Napa, CA 94559
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
JUNE 2020
N A PA VA LL EY ’S #1 RE A L EST A TE LUXURY ESTATES | VIN E YARDS | WIN ERIE S
BROK E R S O F T H E VA L L EY
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1161 CASTLE OAKS DRIVE - $2,450,000
Stunning, panoramic Valley and Golf course views from this immaculate 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath, Silverado Highlands Home.
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1720 Vineyard Avenue - $2,295000
2686 LAS AMIGAS ROAD - $5,500,000
Custom, classic, and contemporary St. Helena Gorgeous estate home situated atop 43 Pied-a-terre with the charm of Tuscany in every plantable acres with 360 degree views in the detail. famed Carneros Region.
FEATURED LISTINGS - SUZY ANDERSON g
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1224 TALL GRASS COURT - $1,995,000
1125 CASTLE OAKS Drive - $1,895,000
Estate home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and incredible views in desirable, Hidden Hills development.
Immaculate and pristine, Silverado Country Club Rare 4 bedroom single story home in gated home. Single level home on 1.2 acres with a development of Silverado Springs. Numerous guest house/studio. high end details and upgrades.
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154 SILVERADO SPRINGS DRIVE - $1,395,000
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1864 MILTON ROAD - $1,275,000
224 CARDWELL COURT - $1,095,000
Resort living on the river with spectacular views. Gorgoeus modern home with deep water boat dock.
Custom built estate with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths Well maintained home on corner lot in the and architectural features in quiet Napa cul-de- popular gated development of Napa Yacht Club. sac.
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130 BONNIE BROOK DRIVE - $850,000
Brand new gorgeous single level condo facing open space and creek. Quiet gated development with pool adjacent to golf course.
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144 BONNIE BROOK CIRCLE - $787,500
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25 GREENBRIAR CIRCLE - $750,000
One story condo in gated Silverado County Club. Silverado Highlands lot on almost 1 acre with Serene setting overlooking creek, greenbelt, and beautiful center location. Plans for a single level home available. trees.
SUZY ANDERSON 707.494.0333
Suzy@SuzyAnderson.com
101 S NEWPORT DRIVE - $879,000
SuzyAnderson.com
Lic. #00827232
10 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 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
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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
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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. $849,000
New ListiNg
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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
Darlene Brissard, Realtor
Brian Durnian, Broker
Ziggy Gutierrez, Realtor
looking to Build
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eautiful level building site affording panoramic valley views looking at the Palisades, Calistoga, down valley and across Bennett Lane to the Western hills. Old survey on file, well report - 6.5 gpm appears limited by pump size per report, perc test on file. Sellers are currently working on the driveway to meet new Napa County standards. Room for a hobby vineyard. This parcel is located just 1/2 mile past Tubbs lane just above Chateau Montelena. $795,000
Carneros estate Building site
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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
great north napa loCation
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ell maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with inviting front porch, high ceilings in living area, plenty of light, fireplace and new carpet in family room, new kitchen tile floor, new rear deck, fish pond, and freshly painted exterior. Great floorplan, low maintenance landscaping in front and plenty of room in the backyard for a garden. $675,000
Sharon Carone, Broker
Darlene Brissard, Realtor
Brian Durnian, Broker
Ziggy Gutierrez, Realtor
Escaping the pandemic by living
OFF THE GRID
© Ariel Mcglothin | Dreamstime.com
CHRIS D CRAIKER AIA/NCARB
O
ne way to escape the COVID-19 Pandemic is to move off the grid into the wilderness. I sometimes feel self-isolating is just that. While living remotely maybe enticing, there’s a lot more work than one would think. The definition is living without any public sewer, water, gas and electricity infrastructure. Ten CHRIS D years ago, the CRAIKER internet would not be considered indispensable, but today how many of us could live without it? Our forefather’s pioneer spirit of venturing into the wild in covered wagons, splitting logs for the fire and lighting oil lamps for reading may seem romantic but using an outhouse and pumping well water may be fine for a weekend but not for a lifetime. 14 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
Today’s off the grid homes require a high degree of careful and savvy construction. Structures often utilize recycled timber and steel pre-assembled for easy transportation. Highly insulated and well-sealed exterior envelopes, these homes are not shacks, but deliberately built structures designed to minimize their footprint and energy consumption. When one goes offline, they’ll need a lot of creativity and fortitude. The challenge is to remain independent while tethered to society without compromising one’s quality of life. Generally, this means replacing energy supply with renewable alternatives. Providing energy can be a high-tech combination of photovoltaic panels, geothermal energy and/or wind turbines. Efficient energy storage is essential. A 3kW solar panel system can produce sufficient energy for a small family. Their cost may vary and battery storage costs are dropping. Alternative
wind turbines could produce up to 5kW of energy but is unpredictable and dependent upon location. For sure, one will need a gas generator as back up. Commercial structures strive for NZE, Net Zero Energy use. Here a building collects daily renewable energy and gives back its excess to the electric grid for a net zero energy consumption. This may work for commercial structures during the day when closed at night but isn’t practical for residential which is generally morning and evening occupied when little or no renewable energy is available. Residential uses will be dependent upon battery storage, which is both expensive and requires a significant amount of energy to produce. NNZE, Near Net Zero is probably the best compromise. We can adapt. Yesterday we purchased our mass-produced sour dough bread but now we all love our homemade rustic loafs. Rather than taking
individual homes off the grid, we should be looking at integrating our neighborhoods to be more self-reliant and as independent as practical. This is not science fiction. The technology is here today and the less dependent we are on monopolistic service providers, the better we all will be. This would also help lessen our carbon addiction. The more renewable energy we create, the stronger our whole society will become. I love my 45 miles/gallon Prius hybrid. I still have my first Honda 2000 hybrid, the third in California. Most likely our homes will be the same: hybrids using multiple sources of energy and resources to lighten our carbon footprint. Chris D. Craiker, AIA/NCARB, is a Napa architect with Craiker Architects & Planners. He has been designing sustainable buildings for more than 40 years. JUNE 2020
3800
Monticello Road Napa, CA 94558
BEST OF NAPA
Magnificent views await you on this spectacular 32+ acre property less than 15 minutes from downtown Napa and 6 miles from Silverado Country Club. Relax on the expansive deck overlooking mature oak trees, neighboring vineyards and 500 of your own lavender plants. This totally customizable property has a 1200 sqft home upstairs with an additional 1970 sqft of finished garage space with HVAC downstairs that can be easily converted into additional living space, Or build your new dream home at the site of your choice and keep the existing structure as a guest house. All the infrastructure needed to build is already in place! This 2 bed/2 bath home designed by Hart-Howerton of San Francisco is move-in ready with modern finishes, an open floor plan, plaster walls, dumb waiter, fitness room, office space downstairs, backup electrical system, 2 wells, multiple outbuildings, fuel and water storage tanks, 5+ acres of plantable land and so much more.
Offered at $2,995,000 Presented by The Pujals Team & Hilda Hensley of Benchmark Mortgage
Jerry Pujals 707.249.0518 jerry@cbnapavalley.com Lic. 01234625
Susan Pujals 707.249.0819 susan@cbnapavalley.com Lic. 01858099
Sierra Pujals 707.287.4401 sierra@cbnapavalley.com Lic. 02048514
Hilda Hensley 707.254.8891 teamhensley@benchmark.us NMLS #280206
www.WESELLNAPAVALLEY.com
June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 15
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16 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
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June 2020
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
THE CRAFTSMAN INN - DEVEOLOPMENT OPPORTUNITY
IMMACULATE CALISTOGA RESIDENCE
Approved build ready plans to develop an exis�ng B&B property into a luxury hotel with 13 large suites, a restaurant and luxury spa.
Immaculate single level residence on .26 acres at the end of a quite cul-de-sac just a few blocks from Downtown Calistoga.
CALISTOGA I $4,950,000 I CALISTOGABOUTIQUEHOTEL.COM
CALISTOGA
JACQUELINE WESSEL 707.738.7338 I Jacquelinenapavalley@gmail.com
GAIL MORGAN LANE 707.291.0165 I Gail@winestates.com
STHELENAREALESTATE.COM 1346 Main Street , St. Helena, CA I 707.967.9570 June 2020
I
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$925,000
LIC# 01026604 DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 17
weeding and watering. For your first venture, you may want to start small with a few plants that are easy to shelter, grow and harvest.
Brandpoint
Zing up your menus with a tasty summer
garnish garden BRANDPOINT
A
s people are spending more time at home, many are learning new activities and finding simple joy in doing the things they love, such as cultivating their own gardens. Now is the perfect time to start planning a summer garden that can add fresh flavors to your kitchen all year long. One growing trend is to create delicious and bountiful garnish gardens filled with herbs and produce to serve as the final touch for different food and beverage options. Even experienced gardeners often choose to focus on a few simple, highin-flavor items that will elevate summer meals and cocktails such as juicy berries, savory herbs and other seasonal produce. As a bonus, gardening can provide stress relief and a sense of accomplishment in a 18 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
fast-paced and challenging world. According to a 2020 study conducted by Fiskars, 46% of people in the U.S. say gardening is beneficial to their overall happiness. In that spirit, here are several tips from Fiskars to prepare and plant a summer garnish garden that will provide all kinds of delicious options for your at-home summer recipes. PLOT YOUR GROWING AREA Evaluate the growing season in your area and consider which of your outdoor spaces may provide enough sunlight for a viable garden. Depending on your ambition and commitment level, your garden could be as vast as your entire backyard or as simple as a few large pots on your patio or balcony. If you go big, be sure to allot extra time for cultivating,
ASSEMBLE EFFECTIVE TOOLS Having the right tools on hand is the best way to prepare to garden, especially if this is your first time putting a garden together. In fact, those who have gardened before know just how important this is—according to the same study, 77% of gardeners in the U.S. say having the right tools increases their happiness when gardening. This year, trade in your old tools for newer, ergonomically designed products that are not only more comfortable but also highly effective. For example, The Fiskars Xact Cultivator is made with deep, curved tines to efficiently loosen and aerate soil and a weighted handle for advanced comfort and control. The Xact Trowel can be comfortably gripped from multiple angles to pry through tough turf and dirt clots, and The Xact Hand Edger offers precision control when removing weeds, moss and debris from harder-to-reach places. All are equipped with SoftGrip handles and are perfect for planting herbs and fresh produce. CHOOSE VERSATILE VARIETIES Consider which herbs, fruits and veggies will best contribute to the meals and beverages you like to prepare. For example, cucumbers or tomatoes can add a refreshing zing to salads and drinks, while rosemary and basil complement a range of both sweet and savory flavors in cocktails, grilled meats, vegetables, soups and salads. Other popular and easy-to-grow herbs include thyme, parsley, dill, cilantro and chives. Berry choices may include strawberries, raspberries and blackberries—just make sure you have enough room to let these bushy plants grow! OPTIMIZE YOUR HARVEST There’s nothing as refreshing as the taste of fresh produce, and being able to incorporate it into meals and tasty treats is one of the best perks of summer. Consider creative presentation ideas, too—try adding sprigs of rosemary sprinkled into ice cube trays, colorful berries atop summer cocktails or cutting cucumbers or strawberries into multi-petaled roses. You can also set aside ingredients for later; berries can be frozen, tomatoes can be canned and herbs can be dried to season meals throughout the colder months. Saving some of your hard-earned harvest will be sure to remind you of the simple pleasures derived from your own backyard. To find more tips on effective gardening as well as DIY inspiration and ideas, visit Fiskars. com. Happy growing! June 2020
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3854 Santa Rosa Ave • Santa Rosa, CA 95407 • Monday through Friday 8:30 - 5:00 • Saturdays 9:00 - 5:00 707-586-2064 • www.nctile.com • Lic.#641574 June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 19
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Brandpoint
5 ways to go green and stay
comfortable at home How to go green at home and save green in your wallet BRANDPOINT Taking steps to live a greener lifestyle at home not only can help protect the environment, but it can improve the comfort in your home and help save money, too. According to a study conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI), 41% of Americans want to buy green products for their home. Strategic home feature upgrades and smart habits can help save on utility bills, reduce your water and carbon footprints, and potentially benefit your budget long term. We have all found ourselves with a little more time at home recently and may have time for some small DIY projects. Fortunately, green home improvements don’t have to be difficult. Here are five ideas to make your home more sustainable and help save money: INSTALL A RAIN WATER BARREL Watering a lawn and garden is essential to the health of the landscape, but running water for hours at a time can be costly and unsustainable. One alternative is investing in a rain barrel. A rain barrel can be purchased at a reasonable price and stores rain water to use later when watering your landscape. Some cities and counties even offer discounted rain barrels to residents to encourage water conservation, so call your local municipality to learn about potential options. 20 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
USE A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT A programmable thermostat works by automatically raising or lowering the temperature in your house based on your selected settings to keep it comfortable when you’re home and save energy when you’re not. Smart thermostats are enhanced versions of programmable thermostats that can learn your habits and be controlled remotely from an app. With either option, you could potentially save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. USE NATURAL LIGHT AND UPDATE BULBS The natural light that comes into a home does not cost any money, so it is a perfect source to naturally light up a room. Not only does this save on energy costs, the sunshine may boost your mood. On darker days and in the evening, turn on ENERGY STAR® certified light bulbs that can save up to 90% in energy consumption when compared to standard bulbs. Using less energy is better for the environment and for the wallet, so use electric lights only when needed and turn them off every time you leave a room. ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered trademarks owned by the
UPGRADE TO ENERGY-EFFICIENT W I N D OW S , A P P L I A N C E S O R HVAC SYSTEM Making energy-efficient home upgrades often requires an investment, but these upgrades can potentially increase your home’s value. For example, installing new energy-efficient windows or appliances or heating and cooling systems that use less energy could increase the value of your home. To help fund certain qualifying home improvements in select areas, Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance offers its Home Upgrade loan program, or “HUG” financing. “Home owners deserve the opportunity to upgrade or repair their current home without draining their savings,” says Eric Hamilton, president of Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. “The HUG loan program gives qualified applicants* a chance to responsibly upgrade their home, whether you’re planning energy-efficiency upgrades or tackling an emergency repair.” USE GREEN CLEANING SUPPLIES Natural and eco-friendly cleaning supplies do not use harmful chemicals, which is better for your local water supply and is a great option when cleaning surfaces your family uses often. There are many cleaning supply alternatives that are available at local retail stores that contain less potentially harmful chemicals, or you might consider making your own cleaners at home. Pantry staples like baking soda, distilled white vinegar and lemon juice are common ingredients for creating DIY cleaners that are better for the environment and often cost just pennies to make. Whether it’s taking a small step like changing to energy-efficient light bulbs or a bigger step like financing energy-efficient home improvements with Vanderbilt’s HUG loan program, you should feel proud that you’re making a positive impact on the environment and its future. The energy savings and potential lower utility costs are a welcomed benefit of your sustainability efforts at home. *All Loans Subject to Credit Approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Subject to state regulation. This advertisement is for Consumer Loans. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license. Paid Content by Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. 500 Alcoa Trail, Maryville, TN 37804, 865-380-3000 June 2020
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June 2020
1758 Stockton Street | Saint Helena $2,900,000
0 Congress Valley Road | Napa $1,300,000
2408 Cedar Street | Calistoga $1,200,000
4 bedrooms | 3.5 bathrooms | 2,566 SF
Buildable lot | 10.28± acres
3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,734 SF
Vincent J. Ruggiero 707.479.8052 vincent@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01077425
Steve Ericson 707.483.2428 ericson@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01054001
Lynn Carl 707.481.4100 Lynn@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01997048
4420 Dumas Street | Napa $819,500
1078 Blueridge Drive | Napa $529,950
6094 Dry Creek Road | Napa $465,000
4 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | 2,407 SF
2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,532 SF
Buildable lot | 10.99± acres
John M. Miller 707.815.6195 john@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01984225
Vincent J. Ruggiero 707.479.8052 vincent@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01077425
Martha Macias 707.704.5213 martha@gatesestatessir.com lic.#02013734
20 Village Parkway | Napa $450,000
41 Hazelwood Drive | Napa $399,888
335 Alta Mesa Circle | Napa $350,000
2 bedrooms | 3.5 bathrooms | 1,376 SF
Buildable lot | .47± acres
Buildable lot | .10± acres
Lee W. Miller 707.266.1585 lee@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01958362
Sally Vaziri 707.738.9403 sally@gatesestatessir.com lic.#02069696
Raymond Marceau 707.260.5510 raymond@gatesestatessir.com lic.#01985332
6550 Washington Street | Yountville, CA 94599 707.944.0888 | gatesestatessir.com Each office is independently owned and operated June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 23
1060RutherfordRoad.com
8ForresterLane.com
1890LarkspurSt.com
Stunning Craftsman in Rutherford HW floors & custom cabinetry Kitchen/LR spill out to lg deck Fabulous views of vineyards
Farmhouse style, vineyard views Open floor plan, spacious master Loft style office area upstairs Great proximity to town
Exceptionally remodeled home Stunning kitchen, open dinning Spa, raised garden area and deck Close to all Yountville has to offer
2157MadisonSt.com
566CommunityHall.com
155 Moss Lane
Rutherford | $2,550,000 4 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 3,139 SF
Yountville | $1,300,000 2 beds | 2 baths | 1,100 SF
Beautifully remodeled home in North Yountville Incredible chef-inspired kitchen Cozy fireplace and pergola in the backyard
Yountville | $1,575,000 4 beds | 3 baths | 1,876 SF
Yountville | $1,549,000 3 beds | 2 baths | 1,561 SF
St. Helena | $885,000 2 beds | 1 baths | 1,175 SF
Napa | $789,000 4 beds | 2.5 baths | 1,973 SF
Private setting with total valley views Lovingly remodeled cozy home Large storage room, cute back porch Lots of windows and view decks
Desirable North Napa location Hardwood floors throughout New siding, new roof Backyard perfect for al fresco dining
Cyndi Gates
Broker Associate 707.333.7770 cyndi@gatesestatessir.com lic.#00711618
24 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020
1109 Atlas Peak Road
Napa | $1,599,000 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 855 SF | 4.04Âą acres First time on the market in over 70 years Rare opportunity to own 4Âą level acres Desirable Silverado CC location
1918OakCircle.com
Yountville | $1,299,000 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,400 SF Desireable Oak Circle location Beautifully updated & maintained SS Appliances/stone slab counters
3269MacadamCt.com
Napa | $949,000 4 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2,064 SF Quiet cul-de-sac location Huge lot with mature fruit trees Open floor plan for easy living
131VineyardCir.com
Yountville | $899,000 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,154 SF Stunningly remodeled Yountville condo Hardwood floors throughout, private wine room Designer finishes, sold turnkey
3816VillaCourt.com
Napa | $775,000 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,506 SF Well cared for North Napa home Bright and open living space for easy living Fresh paint, great corner lot
June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 25
REAL ESTATE IN THE NAPA VALLEY
A look back:
THE GROOVY 70s
I
was only five years old in 1970, so I do not remember much in the early seventies. I was a part of a loving family with two brothers, both a decade older than me. We lived in a small house in Vallejo, California, that my parents purchased new in 1951 for $13,000. I grew up in the same house until I moved out 20 years later. History shows us the effects of our decisions or the lack thereof and can give us a good idea of where we BURT M. are going. The issues do not POLSON seem to change, but just have a new coat of paint on them. I was doing research for a project and found myself examining past data from the seventies. Pragmatically speaking, things have changed considerably from 50 years ago from a real estate and economic viewpoint. Here are a few of the highlights I found: $45,000—value of the home I grew up in in 1970. $375,000—value of the home I grew up in today. $23,600—median-priced home in the U.S. in 1970. $175,342—median-priced home in 1970 in today’s dollars adjusting for inflation. $327,100—actual median-priced home in the U.S. today.
26 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
1,469,000—number of housing starts (new construction in the U.S.) in 1970. 1,176,000—number of housing starts in 2020. 8.5%—average mortgage interest rate in 1970 for a 30-year mortgage. 12%—average mortgage interest rate in 1979 for a 30-year mortgage. 2.875%—lowest rate I found today for a 30-year mortgage. $126.88—average monthly mortgage payment in 1970. $621—average monthly mortgage payment in 1979. $12,750—average mortgage balance in 1970. $202,284—average mortgage balance in 2019. 3.58—average family size in 1970. 3.14—average family size in 2019. $8,734—median household income in 1970. 1.4%—rate of inflation in 1960. 6.5%—rate of inflation in 1970. 0.1%—rate of inflation in May 2020. 6.1%—rate of unemployment in 1970. 9%—rate of unemployment in 1975. 13.3%—rate of unemployment in May 2020. $297—average non-supervisory weekly wage in 1970. $1,962.60—average non-supervisory weekly wage in 1970 in today’s dollars adjusting for inflation. $852.50—actual average non-supervisory
weekly wage in May 2020. 450,000—number of millionaires in 1970. 18,101,293—number of millionaires in 2020. $371,000,000,000—national debt in 1970. $26,007,397,000,000—national debt today. $0.06—cost of a first-class stamp in 1970. $0.36—cost of a gallon of regular gas in 1970. $0.62—cost of a dozen eggs in 1970. $1.15—cost of a gallon of milk in 1970. Two compelling figures from above show that the housing cost from 1970 adjusted for inflation in today’s dollars is 187% more than it should be. Second, the non-supervisory weekly wage from 1970 adjusted for inflation in today’s dollars is negative 144% less than it should be. We as humans are quite fallible but have made strides to better ourselves and learn from our past mistakes over the decades. We have work to do, but I remain optimistic. Our creator made us a beautiful and diverse world to embrace and revere. 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.
JUNE 2020
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TERRA FIRMA GLOBAL PARTNERS
1405 2nd St., Napa, CA (800) 681-1361 June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 27
J I L L L E VY
SELLING NAPA VALLEY
R E A L T O R
4
BEDS
4
BATHS
1
1/2 BA
$6,950,000 Napa
45 Hunter Ranch Road Napa Valley vineyard estate in a private/gated setting in coveted Oak Knoll AVA minutes to Yountville and downtown Napa. Lot size 10.3± acres.
5
BEDS
3
BATHS
3,950,000 Napa
2110 Penny Lane | Coming Soon 8± acre vineyard estate by a sea of vineyards offers sublime indoor/ outdoor living with a fantastic outdoor entertaining area including pool,
4
BEDS
3
BATHS
$1,795,000 Calistoga
1581 Centennial Circle | Pending Modern barn with views of the Palisades offers guest house, pool, and multiple outdoor entertaining areas located in a private gated setting.
5
BEDS
3
BATHS
1
$4,595,000 Napa
1/2 BA
4268 East 3rd Avenue European-inspired home with guest house on 5 acres with high-end Cabernet vineyard, rustic barn and 1 BR/1 BA guest house.
5
BEDS
$2,995,000
4
Napa
BATHS
5160 Wild Horse Valley Road | Pending Quintessential farmhouse estate in private gated setting on east side of Napa in Coombsville AVA. 3 BD main house with 2 BD/2BA guest house.
3
BEDS
2
BATHS
1
1/2 BA
$1,695,000 Napa
1105 La Grande Avenue | Pending Single level remodeled home on 1± acre located in a serene setting on east side of Napa. Well designed floor plan with great room style living.
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
28 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
707.479.9612 | J.Levy@ggsir.com NapaHomesAndEstates.com
June 2020
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 located near downtown in a private gated setting. Floor plan designed for indoor/outdoor living with 5 sets of French doors opening from spacious great room with exposed beam ceiling, and fireplace to spectacular outdoor entertaining areas. Loggia with outdoor fireplace, outdoor kitchen, wood fired pizza oven, pool with pool house, wine cave with 1000+ bottle capacity, and raised planter beds and fruit trees. Gourmet kitchen with state of the art appliances, and 2 islands with counter seating andinformal dining. Formal dining offers French doors. 3 en suite bedrooms plus office and media room in main house, and a 1 bedroom/1 bathroom guest house. 3.5 acre Coombsville AVA Cabernet vineyard with grapes sold to Prime Cellars.
Jill Levy, REALTORŽ 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
June 2020
707.479.9612 | J.Levy@ggsir.com NapaHomesAndEstates.com
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 29
Vineyard Estate 4bd/5ba/6698’ 12+ acre gated property minutes to downtown Napa with 7.8 acres Chardonnay and .09 acre Cabernet Sauvignon.
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.
Silverado Estate 4bd/4ba/4730’ Spectacular views, main level living, entertaining back yard with pool and hut tub, in the Silverado Highlands.
Mark Lesti
Paul M. Everett 707.299.9949
Mark Lesti
707.320.8950
$7,800,000
$3,500,000
707.320.8950
$2,599,000
Country Getaway 4bd/4ba/3320’ Private, tranquil, exclusive country get-away 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.
Silverado Modern 4bd/4ba/3337’ Unique home full of striking details perched in the hills of Silverado Country Club.
Silverado View 3bd/3ba/4063’ Bright and light architectural gem with large view windows everywhere in a private cul-de-sac high above Silverado Country Club.
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
707.320.8950
Christine Lesti 707.320.8999 Lic#01854423
$2,499,000
Mark Lesti 707.320.8950 Lic#01784430
707.320.8950
Hanan Kim 602.579.5927 Lic#01982155
$2,249,000
Paul M. Everett 707.299.9949 Lic#02016753
Sarah Peyton 707.339.2163 Lic#01869521
707.320.8950
$2,150,000
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.
30 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020
Eastside Entertainer 3bd/2.5ba/2301’ 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.
Browns Valley Vines 4bd/5ba/3672’ Spacious, entertaining home with 1/3 acre of Cabernet Sauvignon vines, Wine Cave, garage workshop, and artist studio in an elevated setting with mountain views.
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
707.320.8950
$1,375,000
707.320.8950
$1,895,000
Custom Remodeled 3bd/3ba/1900’ Beautifully updated charmer with numerous modern amenities, including a pool and spa.
Outdoor Oasis 4bd/4ba/2076’ Spacious remodeled home with sprawling backyard designed for entertaining, with room for a pool.
Silverado Single Level 3bd/3ba/2195’ Larger lot in Silverado Springs with remodeled Master Bedroom Suite, beautiful HOA common grounds, pool, and tennis.
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
707.320.8950
$1,395,000
707.320.8950
$1,150,000
707.320.8950
$1,150,000
Elbow room 3bd/3ba/2775’ On an open, landscaped, 0.55-acre lot with views of horses and Mt. George, this comfortable home offers tranquil living in the Avenues.
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.
South Napa Charmer 3bd/2ba/1501’ Incredibly maintained and tastefully updated charmer with inviting outdoor space in South Napa.
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
Paul M. Everett 707.299.9949
707.320.8950
$1,090,000
707.320.8950
$859,000
$615,000
(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.
June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 31
Silverado Cottage 1bd/1ba/739’ Ground-Level Condominium on the fairway in the Cottages at Silverado Country Club.
Vineyard Views 3bd/2ba/1213’ Yountville end-unit Condominium provides spectacular vineyard views and privacy.
Silverado Condo 1bd/1ba/676’ Ground-Level Condominium in the Clubhouse Units at Silverado Country Club.
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
707.320.8950
$775,000
707.320.8950
$749,000
707.320.8950
$515,000
Lucerne Lake Home 3bd/2ba/1326’ Move-in ready with private boat dock on canal in this desirable waterfront community of Kono Tayee Estates.
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).
North Napa Lot ~ 1 acre Level lot just north of Trancas with current RS-10 and RS-20 zoning.
Gary Prince
Mark Lesti
Paul M. Everett 707.299.9949
707.227.7282
$345,000
707.320.8950
$1,400,000
$925,000
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.
Panoramic Views +/- 60 acres Gated entrance and paved road lead to the top of this breathtaking property minutes to Lake Berryessa.
Mark Lesti
Mark Lesti
Gary Prince
707.320.8950
Gary Prince 707.227.7282 Lic#01735857
$875,000
Bob Wallin 707.337.5279 Lic#01492251
Brandon Hagler 707.210.4292 Lic#02073516
707.320.8950
Howard Giles 650.796.5195 Lic#01428277
$725,000
Christine Marek 707.226.1823 Lic#01730062
707.227.7282
Nick Valdivia 707.225.5810 Lic#01980975
$299,000
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.
32 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020
APPLY ONLINE NOW at NVCH.ORG!
MATCH-UP PROGRAM A FREE SERVICE We match home providers who have an extra room in their home, with renters seeking an affordable place to live in Napa County. We screen and check references for each candidate and refer potential housemates to one another. We help facilitate the home sharing agreements, and are available for follow up questions and concerns.
Call 707-253-6157 150 Camino Dorado, Napa CA (707) 253-6157 | NVCH.ORG June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 33
NAPA’S LOAN RANGER
A
lmost three months ago, while we were all getting uncomfortably familiar with COVID-19, I started writing about mortgage forbearance. Just the way the word looks has an appearance of gloom, and when you say it out loud, it sounds ominous too. Throughout the last couple of months, mortgage forbearance has had an enormous impact on the lending industry as I’ve covered in previous columns. Fortunately, most of the lending industry CHRIS has re-evaluated SALESE its position on homeowners who have entered into a forbearance agreement. Although this new positioning isn’t perfect, it’s much better. There were, and continue to be, many homeowners who simply need help. Whether it’s in the form of one month or several months of deferred mortgage payments, this assistance is critical to the survival of plenty of households. Yet without this recent lending industry guideline change on forbearance, it wouldn’t be possible for a homeowner to rebound into a potentially money-saving refinance later. Even those who are looking to purchase again soon, this is helpful. Forbearance for borrowers, if structured and managed correctly, can bridge the gap between a time of need and a time of stability or perhaps opportunity. According to Fannie Mae
CAN DEFERRED MORTGAGE PAYMENTS
HELP YOU? and Freddie Mac, for those who are in forbearance, but not yet into some type of modification plan, then there’s a new update. If you went into a forbearance plan and didn’t miss a payment or missed one payment, your loan is eligible for purchase by Fannie or Freddie if the payments missed are paid in full prior to final approval of your loan.
However, no proceeds from a refinance may be used to bring your loan current and you must be current before final approval. If you’re in a forbearance period that just concluded, and you are now converted over to a loan modification or repayment plan, then you have new options as well. For borrowers for which the forbearance period
ended and you’re now under a loan modification or repayment plan, then you must make three monthly payments under the new plan before you’re eligible for new financing. The three months cannot be paid all at once in a lump sum and the three payments will need to be paid over a threemonth period. Once the three payments have been made, you may pay the loan off via a normal refinance and be eligible to obtain financing for a purchase of another property if desired. The FHA’s and VA’s current positioning on forbearance is sort of similar to each other. If you’re in forbearance and didn’t miss payments or incur a 30-day or later credit report derogatory mark, then you should be fine. However, if you missed a payment and or incurred a credit report late hit, in addition to whether you have exited your forbearance plan or not, this could be problematic. Another area being closely monitored is student loans or other installment loans in deferment or forbearance due to COVID-19. Regardless of your debt source, forbearance reporting continues to change. 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.
© Millafedotova | Dreamstime.com
34 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
JUNE 2020
LOCALLY OWNED CLIENT FOCUSED TEAM APPROACH COMMUNITY-MINDED
Culture
Counts. There's no real estate brokerage in the North Bay quite like us.
THE LOCAL CHOICE FOR REAL ESTATE When your company culture is rooted in integrity, doing right by clients, colleagues & community comes naturally.
TFGPrealestate.com
June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 35
Use technology to cut heating, water bills BRANDPOINT
O
ver the course of the last several months, hundreds of millions of people have sheltered in place as governments issue executive orders to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, many homes are becoming a fortress against the virus, a makeshift school, an office outpost and a daycare facility. As summer approaches and homeowners continue to spend more time at home with the air conditioner and the lights on, they are looking for ways to optimize the efficiency of their homes. The typical U.S. family spends at least $2,200 a year on home utility bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. On average, that’s 7% of a consumer’s annual income. Utilities that used to be considered “optional,” such as Internet and mobile phone service, are now considered essential during the coronavirus era, adding additional expense to a family’s monthly budget. SO WHERE CAN A HOMEOWNER LOOK TO CUT BACK? When thinking of a smart home, some people might just think of cool, connected gadgets that make life easier or more convenient. However, many smarthome solutions are becoming part of sustainable living, and they can save you money along the way. Here are four ways you can introduce smart-home solutions into your daily life, reducing the monthly strain of high utility bills.
4save you money ways a smart home can
of your home should help you achieve that feeling. However, heating and cooling can account for nearly half of a family’s monthly utility budget. A smart thermostat, like the Honeywell Home T9 thermostat, can reduce this cost by tailoring to your temperature preferences during the day and at night. By adding smart room sensors to your most popular rooms, you can deliver the right temperature to the right room at the right time. And look for trusted brands that are ENERGY STAR certified. You’ll be doing your pocketbook and the environment a favor.
SIGN UP FOR REBATES When a sudden heat wave hits a large swath of the country, air conditioning systems in houses, apartments, hospitals and office buildings all crank on at once, and utility companies go into overdrive trying to meet their clients’ increased energy demands. This kind of short-term increased demand puts a strain on our electric grid and can even become a public safety hazard if overloaded systems crash just when consumers most need to DON’T SACRIFICE cool their indoor environments. EFFICIENCY FOR To prevent this from happening, COMFORT—AUTOMATE utility companies implement a YOUR THERMOSTAT variety of voluntary energy saving Our homes are our source programs (known in the industry of comfort and the temperature as demand response, or DR) that
36 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
incentivize consumers to reduce their energy use during periods of peak demand. Many utility companies offer consumers a rebate for joining energy savings programs that connect to smart thermostats. You can search for rebates at Resideo.com/rebates. LIGHT UP THE ROOM, BUT ONLY WHEN YOU’RE IN IT Parents can often tell the exact path their children have taken based on what lights have been left on throughout the house. Turning off lights is an easy thing to forget, even as adults. We’ve all accidentally left that closet light or bedroom lamp on all day. Consider installing automated and motion-activated lighting solutions. With easy DIY installation, a weekend lighting project can give you long-term energy savings. Interested to know how much energy and cost are associated with running various home appliances? Check out this energy calculator from Energy.gov. GET TO KNOW YOUR WATER USAGE Most of us don’t think twice when turning on the faucet, flushing the toilet or running a warm bath, which takes energy to heat. Water is our planet’s most precious resource, but it’s
Brandpoint
something we take for granted because it’s available at the turn of a tap. Monitoring and being aware of your water footprint can help reduce your monthly bill, while reducing strain on water supplies. For example, your money goes down the drain when dishes are washed by hand—using up to 27 gallons per load—instead of using an ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher that can use as little as three gallons per load. Smart washing machines can help you optimize your laundry preferences—and can find the right wash cycle and water-temperature preferences suitable for that load. Resideo’s Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector can alert you and your smartphone if it detects a possible water leak. Are you feeling like you want to start improving your home’s efficiency, but don’t know how to begin? Summer is a great time to start, and HVAC contractors and security dealers are considered essential businesses during the coronavirus in many states. Most credible professionals have adjusted the protocols when interacting with homeowners as well. Contact a professional that can recommend efficient whole-home solutions to help optimize your home’s water and energy resources. JUNE 2020
F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G - S T E V E G R E G O R Y
Napa Valley Modern Farm House in the Avenues
Garden Studio
2049 North 3rd Avenue @ Barrow 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!! www.2049No3rdAve.com.
$1,950,000 | Exclusive Listing STEVE GREGORY 707.495.1488
steve@cbnapavalley.com www.SteveGregoryNapa.com Lic. 01038915 June 2020
CO L DW EL L B AN KE R B RO KER S O F TH E VA L L EY
NAPA VAL L E Y ’S # 1 RE AL E STAT E C O MPA NY DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 37
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!
38 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020
Sophisticated
soak
3 stylish ways to add a freestanding bathroom tub
BRANDPOINT
Whether it’s a new build, remodel or update, freestanding tubs are a top trend in bathroom spaces. These showstopping centerpieces elevate the visual aesthetic of the room while adding to the overall value of the property. While in high demand, many homeowners have questions about the complexities of adding one to their home. The good news is that new options are making it easier than ever to have a freestanding tub installed in bathrooms of various shapes and sizes. Consider the Unwind collection of freestanding baths from Sterling, for example. Designed with easy installation in mind, the collection features versatile bathtubs in freestanding or back-to-wall freestanding styles that fit any bathroom space and design aesthetic. TRADITIONAL FREESTANDING BATH POSITIONING When most people think of freestanding bathtubs, they envision a bathroom with a luxurious tub as the focal point centered in the space. A freestanding placement leaves room around the entire tub and is a beautiful option for bathrooms with ample
space. This stand-alone statement piece provides spa-like appeal in the bathroom.
bath is also available in a slightly smaller 67-by-30-inch size.
WALL-FACING FREESTANDING TUB PLACEMENT A freestanding tub can be positioned along a wall as well, which is a good option for bathrooms with unique designs or moderate space restrictions. This could include an oval-shaped tub or a rectangle style that flanks more closely to the wall, helping to open up space while still providing the luxe experience of a deep soaking tub.
EASIER INSTALLATION OPTIONS All of the Unwind baths offer a single-piece, seamless design with a built-in integral overflow. The concealed legs can be adjusted for the ideal height for the homeowner and space. An above-floor rough-in and white toe-tap drain are included on all models. Freestanding baths are on trend and in demand by homeowners of all ages. Providing a stylish focal point for the bathroom, they offer a luxurious way to reduce stress and soothe muscles. For additional information and inspiration visit www.sterlingplumbing.com.
CORNER FREESTANDING TUB POSITIONING Some homeowners prefer a corner placement for a freestanding bath because of the visual appeal and space-saving qualities. The Unwind Bath Collection has options for all three bathroom placements and consists of a sculptural oval bath, a crisp-edged rectangle bath, and a back-to-wall bath that is ideal for smaller spaces and offers a faucet deck and an open back, which allows for easy faucet installation. All three styles come in a 59-by-30inch model. The oval bath and back-to-wall bath also come in 67-by-32-inch models. The rectangle
Brandpoint photos
JUNE 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 39
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
40 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
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
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
1600 ATLAS PEAK RD #449
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
Angwin 884 PONDEROSA DR
Rural Residential
4/22
$1,295,000
3
3
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
Pope, Chiles, Wooden Valleys 255 COUNTRY CLUB LN
4/17
1830 CAPELL CROSS RD
Rural Residential
$504,000
3
2
1,412
1989
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
June 2020
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Dream Home
NapaValleyRegister.com/homes June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 41
‘Urban Flight Syndrome’ affects Wine Country real estate markets
I
GERRETT SNEDAKER, CRB
t’s been cited in Bloomberg News, SF Gate and other media that folks from the urban areas around the Bay are buying up properties in Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino Counties. There has also been increased activity in Marin County. In recent polls, agents are reporting an uptick in buyers from San Francisco and the Peninsula. This is partly spurred on GERRETT by changing work SNEDAKER conditions where many employees will be continuing to work from home and not be required to show up at their downtown or Silicon Valley offices on a daily basis. This leaves them free to move out of expensive rentals to relatively affordable homes in our markets. We’re also experiencing a surge in “high end” purchases as second homes so folks can leave their urban surroundings to distance them from COVID-19 risks. You will see some surprising numbers in this Market Update where we had record sales in some sectors and have continuing low inventory. The logical conclusion is that home prices may rise, but it will take more months to track this. This may not be good for home affordability in our Wine Country markets, but it does bring economic investment and strength to our local economies.
“Coming Soon” status and another 38 “Temporarily Off Market”. If those were added to the “Active” inventory, there would be 449 active listings. This would be consistent with the inventory levels we usually see in May. It would also put us at 3.8 months supply of inventory. Fifty percent of the inventory in Napa County (199 properties) is priced at $1,000,000 or above. New sales (120) are 17% below the pace of last year (145) and are 69% ahead of the 71 sales last month. There is a 3.3 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for homes closing in Napa County is currently 75 days. For the purpose of our MLS (BAREIS) “Days on Market” represents the time from when the property is first listed in the MLS to the date the property goes into “pending” (all conditions removed) status. On average, it can take anywhere from 0 to 30 additional days for properties to close after going pending. This may be protracted with the current circumstances. The median price of the 64 homes closed in May in Napa County ($618,000) is 13% below the median price of a year ago ($710,000). Over the past four months, Napa County homes are selling at roughly 92% of original list price.
Napa County
If one takes the highest quartile (25%) of available inventory as the “Luxury Market”, the Luxury Market begins at $2,000,000 in Napa County at this time. The number of closings (92) of Luxury Homes (sales price in excess of $2,000,000) in Napa County for the period 6/1/19 to 5/31/20 compared to 93 closings in the
The inventory of homes and condominiums available for sale in Napa County at the end of May (398) is 12% below the inventory in May 2019 (451) and it is 14% above the inventory last month (348). At the end of the month, there were 13 listings in 42 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
Napa County Luxury Homes
period 6/1/18 to 5/31/19. There are 95 luxury homes in inventory at the end of May 2020 compared to 137 at the end of May 2019. There were19 new luxury home listings added in the month of May. There were 11 new Luxury Home sales in May compared to 6 last month. This results in a 7.4 months supply of available Luxury Homes based on the current sales pace compared to 3.3 months supply for the County as a whole. Days on market for the 7 luxury homes sales in May was 161 days. Over the past four months, Napa County Luxury Homes are selling at roughly 86% of original list price.
May in the City of Napa. This is 11% below the supply at the end of May 2019 (239) and it is 9% above the inventory at the end of last month (196). New sales (77) were 24% below the pace of May 2019 (101) and they were 54% ahead of the pace of last month (47). There is a 2.8 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for the 46 closings last month was 70 days compared to 53 days in May 2019. The median price of the homes that closed in the City of Napa in May was $674,000. This is 9% below the median price of the homes closed in May 2019 ($739,000).
American Canyon
Up Valley Napa County
There are 23 available homes and condominiums in inventory at the end of May in American Canyon. This is 5% ahead of the inventory a year ago (22) and it is 44% above the supply last month (16). New sales (13) are 46% below the pace of last year (24) and 86% ahead of the 16 sales last month. There is a 1.8 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for the four homes that closed in American Canyon last month was 51 days. The median price of the homes that closed in American Canyon in May ($553,000) is essentially equal to the median price of a year ago ($550,000). The average price per square foot of the homes sold in American Canyon remains in the $250 to $310 range. It remains a tight market in American Canyon.
Napa Fifty-four percent of the inventory in Napa County is in the City of Napa. There are 213 available homes and condominiums in inventory at the end of
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 May (132) is 14% below the level of 154 in May 2019 and it is 25% above the inventory last month (106). There were 20 new sales this month compared to 13 a year ago and 10 last month. There is now a 5.3 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for the 7 closings last month was 88 days. Approximately 56% of the Luxury Market inventory (price in excess of $2,000,000) in Napa County is in the Up Valley Market (53 homes). There were 4 luxury home (price in excess of $2,000,000) closings in the Up Valley Market last month and there were 6 new luxury home sales. Gerrett Snedaker, CRB, is a Broker/Partner with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate|Wine Country Group. Contact Gerrett at gerry.snedaker@winecountrygroup.com or 707-939-2009. June 2020
CAN I AFFORD A NEW HOME? Calculate your Mortgage NapaValleyRegister.com/homes June 2020
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 43
From victory gardens to
GARAGE GREATNESS 5 big jobs to tackle for summer BRANDPOINT Summer is here, and that means it’s time to tackle the big outdoor tasks. The importance of getting work done is especially true in this season of social isolation, when Americans are enjoying their homes’ outdoor spaces more than ever. Outdoor work may require some extra sweat and elbow grease, but these big jobs are a welcome break right now, keeping people busy and outside—and helping them truly appreciate their well-tended green spaces. For many, outdoor work is a satisfying endeavor, allowing homeowners to take pride in their home and yard, along with the work they put into it, which shows in what people are searching for, posting and sharing online. For example, Pinterest Insights saw an increase of 89% in backyard renovation ideas on their website, along with a whopping jump of 658% in DIY small patio ideas on a budget, and an impressive 528% increase in budget garden inspiration ideas. Ready to get started on your summer to-do list? Consider adding these big but worthwhile tasks to your roster. START A “VICTORY GARDEN” Given all the questions brought about by COVID-19, many Americans are reigniting the WWII practice of growing their own fruits, vegetables and herbs to give themselves more control over their food supplies. Many produce varieties are easy to grow, and cultivating them at home can ward off unnecessary shopping excursions. “Americans are turning to gardens for food access, food security, food safety and food affordability,” confirms gardening exec Jim Feinson on GardenResearch.com. BEEF UP YOUR LANDSCAPING Look over your landscaping layout and determine which parts need trimming, filling in, fertilizing or replacing. If you’re in doubt, many garden centers can draw up plans demonstrating changes or additions 44 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
Brandpoint photos
GET YOUR GARAGE IN GEAR Reclaim your space by getting rid of junk you don’t need, power washing your floors and establishing dedicated space for the tools and equipment you regularly use. New cabinets, bins, racks, shelves or pegboard panels can go a long way toward keeping everything handy and easy to find. You may even want to create a mancave vibe by installing a TV, mini fridge and casual seating.
that might look more eye-catching. Before getting started, invest in easy-to-use equipment that will make the heavy-duty labor less grueling. Northern Tool + Equipment’s Strongway Steel Jumbo Garden Wagon can handle tough jobs like hauling rocks, pavers or bags of cement; in fact, it can capably pull up to 1,400 pounds of supplies. REVAMP YOUR DECK Does it just need a good power washing, or is it screaming for a repainting or re-staining too? Either way, your work will go faster with Northern Tool’s Powerhorse Gas Cold Water Pressure Washer, which has the 2.5 GPM and 3100 PSI you need to effortlessly blast through mud, dirt and debris on your deck, siding, fence, patio or driveway.
TACKLE YOUR GUTTERS It can be a hefty job, but built-u p debris must be cleaned out at least twice annually to avoid wet basements, interior leaks, mold growth, rodent infestations and/or displacement of the gutters themselves. Use a sturdy ladder to safely access the edges of your roof, then use a trowel or gutter scoop to remove refuse. Flush out the system using a power washer or a garden hose with a spray attachment. Check for cracks, rust or paint damage and missing attachments, ensure all sections are sloped enough to drain stormwater and replace any sections that can’t be repaired. Summer is here, and that to-d o list won’t take care of itself. Plan now to take on the tasks that will help you and your family make the best possible use of your outdoor spaces in the warm weather. June 2020
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Want to live in the Napa Valley?
Find your perfect home at NapaValleyRegister.com/homes
46 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020
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
June 2020
3181 Cleveland Avenue, Santa Rosa • 707-526-3322 • www.onfiresantarosa.com Closed Sundays
DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 47
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. Chardonnay Model with marble counters and entry floors, wood flooring and newer stainless steel appliances.
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
48 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
June 2020