Distinctive Properties, Premiere Napa Valley Real Estate: May 2021 by Napa Register

PREMIER

NAPA VALLEY REAL ESTATE

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

A Wine Country Lifestyle Magazine

Cover photo Courtesy of Bill Keller Coldwell Banker Brokers of the Valley

MAY 2021 | VOLUME 37, ISSUE 5 A publication of Napa Valley Publishing Company

Cover property information on page 3

N A PA VA LLE Y ’S # 1 R E A L ESTAT E C O M PAN Y Luxury Estates | Vineyards | Wineries

silverado highlands Located at the center of a quiet cul-de-sac in the Silverado Highlands, meticulously renovated, this home boasts a gorgeous cook's kitchen, remodeled baths, wide plank French Oak floors, whole-house sound, plus solar energy systems and a convenient elevator. All interior spaces have been redesigned for luxurious, comfortable living. Incredible fairway and mountain views are visible from every room. Room for Pool (plus pool and spa included in development). Silverado C.C. membership available. 19 Aviara Court, Napa Offered at $2,995,000

silverado parcel Gorgeous views from this 1.2 acre parcel. Fully approved plans and permits-- building has started on your dream home! One year of permits, planning and architecture already completed on this 4 bedroom, 5318 SF gorgeous, well designed, delightful residence! Backs up to a 130 acre parcel. 618 Chaparral Circle, Napa Offered at $995,000

SUZY ANDERSON 7 0 7. 4 9 4 . 0 3 3 3 Suz y @ Suz y A n der s o n.c o m Suz y A n der s o n.c o m Lic. #00827232

©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

WELCOME HOME

R VE O C

PRIVATE ENCLAVE

TY ER P O PR

273 Stonecrest Drive Offered at $1,995,000

Sleek and modern Mid-Century home in the prestigious Stonecrest neighborhood. Features 3,100 sq.ft. on over 1/3 of an acre, up-to-date finishes with 3 bedrooms, office/possible 4th bedroom and 3.5 bathrooms. Designed by noted architect, Robert Keenan, the easy flowing floor plan offers access into all indoor and outdoor areas featuring a living room with fireplace and dining area with vaulted ceilings and oak engineered wood flooring. Light, spacious kitchen with high ceiling boasts a gas range, island with seating and plenty of cabinets for storage. Luxurious master bedroom suite with large walk-in closet, soaking tub, shower and dual vanity with quartz counters. Multiple entries into the remaining 2 bedrooms suites could be utilized as a guest suite or livein help. The back yard features private patios, seating areas and natural landscaping with oaks. Serene country setting minutes from the revitalized downtown Napa and Silverado Resort & Spa.

SILVERADO HIGHLANDS LUXURY Nestled in Silverado Highlands, this luxurious home offers stunning views of Silverado and Napa Valley. Includes 4,493 sq.ft. of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms on 2/3 of an acre. The private, one-ofa-kind back yard features a large waterfall, outdoor kitchen and BBQ, patios for entertaining, recently remodeled pool with water feature, spa and a viewing area overlooking the Napa Valley. Radiant downstairs living areas filled with natural light include living room and sunroom, both with fireplaces, formal dining room, family room with fireplace and kitchen with island any chef would approve - all with easy access to the amazing back yard. The spacious master suite is well-appointed with bedroom, office space, dual fireplace, 2 large closets, dual vanity, shower and jetted tub. The en suite bedroom features the perfect balcony to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views. Throughout the house are many custom amenities, including beautiful hardwood floors, indoor/outdoor sound system, 3 car garage, newer paint, newer hvac and a temperature controlled, 450 bottle wine room.

1160 Castle Oaks Drive Offered at $2,745,000

BILL KELLER Luxury Property Specialist 707.337.6693 BKeller@cbnapavalley.com www.BillKeller.com Lic. 01420013

NAPA VALLEY‘S #1 REAL ESTATE COMPANY 1775 Lincoln Avenue, Napa, CA 94558

SOLD Calistoga Countr y Retreat

3051CalistogaRetreat.com

$1,595,000

SOLD Modern Architectual Jewel

8277RutherfordJewel.com

Magnificent Execution of Vineyard Estate | Sweeping Views of Rutherford AVA Vineyards A Full-Length Ridge Skylight | Lastest Most Efficent High Tech Glazing | 3 Bedroom Suites Master suite - A Private Oasis with Spa-Like Amenities $5,995,000

Local Experts Innovative Global Marketing YVONNE RICH Exclusive Estates

fabulousnapavalley.com

asa

NEW LISTING

ffascinante 1251SpringBrook.com

ULTIMATE NAPA VALLE Y COMPOUND

$1,695,000

1350NapaValleyCompound.com

Perched high above St. Helena, a magnificent execution of a modern stone & stucco contemporary farmhouse - 8,416 sq ft, 3 br/4 ba main house, 2 br/2 ba stone guest cottage & 1 br/1 ba caretaker’s residence. Fine living always demands extra touches - this estate has a grand 2,400+ sq ft wine connoisseur’s cellar & wine tasting room for ultimate Napa Valley entertaining. Sited on nearly 12 acres w/ sweeping Napa Valley Countryside views, this estate offers a great room with intricate vaulted ceilings, ornate wood floors, richly crafted dining room & library, his & her offices, & a large whimsical kitchen with double islands. Sumptuous master suite & master bath w/ unique wall of glass looking out to an intimate fountain. The grounds are truly a vision an artfully designed waterfall, pool, fire pit, outdoor bar/grill & extensive cobblestone patios. A private pond adds to the tranquility of the estate & boutique Chardonnay vines & fruit orchard truly make this a Napa Valley compound.

$7,900,000

YVONNE RICH 707-968-9888

yvonne@fabulousnapavalley.com 1338 MAIN STREET

ST. HELENA

BRE#01045780

Vineyard Paradise

33OakRock.com

Magnificent 110 Acres in St . Helena

110AcresNapaValley.com

Local Experts Innovative Global Marketing YVONNE RICH Exclusive Estates

fabulousnapavalley.com

St . Helena Modern Contemporar y

149KnollPlace.com

Modern Vineyard Estate

4447VineyardEstate.com

$7,100,000

YVONNE RICH 707-968-9888

yvonne@fabulousnapavalley.com 1338 MAIN STREET

ST. HELENA

BRE#01045780

In this issue

Burt Polson’s Real Estate in the Napa Valley: It’s not only about the rent: part one

Calistoga map

Chris Craiker, Architex Angle: How 2021 remodeling will swap new home construction

St. Helena map

Above the fog: Conditions on Howell Mountain make for intense, collectable wines

20 North Bay real estate trends for April 2021 23

Yountville map

30 The cycle of nature: Oak gall ecosystem includes tales from the crypt

MAY 2021

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

To advertise in Distinctive Properties or any Napa Valley Publishing outlet, contact Randy Dowis at RDowis@napanews.com.

Napa map

Light switches and wallplates need cleaning too: 4 tips to try

Did you know? Smoke alarms don’t last forever

Perfecting your imperfect pantry: Tips to achieve inner calm through an organized space

44 Spring project inspiration: A bidet leaves you and the bath clean and refreshed 46 5 inspiring ways to bring the beauty of nature into the home

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 Davis Taylor 707-256-2234 davis.taylor@lee.net 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

MAY 2021

Find Your Napa Valley

Dream Home

NapaValleyRegister.com/homes

REAL ESTATE IN THE NAPA VALLEY

Photo 21156582 © Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime.com

It’s not only about the rent: part one

hether you are a tenant or a landlord, we look to the rental amount first in lease negotiations or when purchasing an investment property. However, the amount of rent paid is only a small part to be considered. Depending on your position, the tenant or landlord looks out for their best interests, respectively. It is part of my job as a broker to move negotiations BURT to an amenable solution. POLSON When purchasing a leased investment property, a buyer is acquiring the property subject to existing leases. They must have a thorough understanding of the terms and conditions of the leases. In either case, it may be essential to have legal counsel review lease agreements. Below is a list of terms and conditions to consider. Rent Depending on where you are located, rent could be quoted on a rate per square foot per month or per year. It could also be listed as an amount per month. For example, in Northern California, we usually see rent quoted as $3 per square foot/month. If you were on the East Coast, this 10 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

B U RT P O L S O N b ur t@acre s i nf o. com would be represented annually at $36 per square foot/year. In addition to the rent, there may be pass-through expenses based on the amount of space leased. This could include triple-net (NNN), double or single-net, a common-area-maintenance (CAM) fee, or modified-gross rent. Gross and full-service rents are usually all-inclusive. Expense pass-throughs are different depending on the property and the landlord. Both the tenant and the landlord should read and thoroughly understand what is and is not included in the reimbursement. Additionally, triggers such as a property sale could change some of the expenses assessed, such as property taxes. Landlords will also require increases in the rent, with most occurring annually. A rent increase could be tied to the CPI (Consumer Price Index) for your area, or it could be a fixed amount or percentage. Term The term usually refers to the length of the lease. It could be anywhere from a month-tomonth lease to a ten-year lease or more with options to extend. Much is dependent on the type of property and user. An option-to-extend provides the tenant a unilateral right to extend the lease for an already agreed to length of time and rent.

Options are not always offered but usually a part of negotiations. The exercise of an option usually must be completed within a set period of time. Early Termination Clause We may be seeing more early termination clauses in today’s market, especially in an office or retail-type property. Essentially, an early termination, opt-out, or break clause provides the tenant the right to terminate the lease upon a specific condition and timeline. The condition could be upon a particular stock valuation, a merger or acquisition of the company, a specific drop in gross sales, or even an outside event such as the delay in developing a new apartment complex next door. In either case, exercising an early termination clause by a tenant usually includes some type of remuneration to the landlord to exercise. In part two, we will discuss tenant improvements, options to buy, and the lease agreement format. 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. MAY 2021

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HWY 128

Calistoga Realty 707-942-9422

1473-C LINCOLN AVENUE CALISTOGA, CA 94515

CHARMING OLD WORLD STYLE

ustom home with a dramatic great room and wood burning fireplace, beamed ceilings and French doors leading to patio, terraced gardens, soothing water features and a large goldfish ponds. Sunroom is an ideal “work from home” space with floor to ceiling windows overlooking gardens, fruit trees, rose garden and nature. Additional building site for a main residence or guest unit, just minutes to downtown Calistoga. Reduced to $1,250,000

TANGLEBROOK

special place in the Napa Valley. Through the gated entry, cross Blossom Creek and up the hill is a beautifully renovated Normandy style home, affording stunning views of vineyards and the Palisades. Separate guest house, office/art studio, in ground pool, Master gardener designed rose garden, all situated in a magical park-like setting. www.3227hwy128.com $2,750,000

CENTENNIAL CIRCLE

ocated down a tree lined street this four bedroom, three bath home is ready for a new owner to add their personal touches to it. Great floor plan - inviting living room with beamed ceiling and gas fireplace, dining area and kitchen with plenty of counter space and storage including a small pantry. Cozy family room with gas fireplace and access to large backyard with small hobby vineyard and room for gardens and a pool. Close to town and schools. $998,000

Sharon Carone, Broker

Darlene Brissard, Realtor

Brian Durnian, Broker

Ziggy Gutierrez, Realtor

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

n Calistoga. Owner Occupied Professional office situated on a 9189 sq.ft, R-2 zoned lot plus the adjacent 7645 sq. ft vacant R-3 zoned parcel. Either use the existing building as a professional office or develop both parcels as one project. Talk to Calistoga Planning Dept about the possibilities. $995,000

MINUTES TO DOWNTOWN

his 17.28 acres parcel has an elevated building site with views of surrounding mountains, and vineyards. Property has a well, and a small pond. Plenty of room for a home and possibly a guest house, small vineyard, or horses. $640,000

BEAUTIFUL OAK STUDDED

4 + acre parcel with views of neighboring hills. Build your dream home on this quiet and peaceful property located in Sonoma County and a short drive to downtown Calistoga or Santa Rosa. Approx. 3+/- acres that are usable and the remainder is hillside. $795,000

DEVELOPERS DREAM

ull views of Clear Lake, Mount Konocti and Clover Valley - 711 Acres with incredible potential. 1.5 miles of seasonal creek and numerous springs. An ideal opportunity, as 95% of the property is outside of the cannabis cultivation exclusion zone. With roughly 25 acres of flatland ready to be developed, potential for this property is vast. $2,950,000

VINTAGE CRAFTSMAN

uilt in 1910 two blocks from downtown Calistoga. Two bedrooms and full bath with claw foot tub, cozy living room and country kitchen with eating area. This home is ready for a new owner to bring it back to its charming style. $495,000

Sharon Carone, Broker

Darlene Brissard, Realtor

VALLEY FLOOR LOCATION

uild your dream estate on this level building site, almost 1/2 parcel located in the City limits and close to downtown, Solage, Indian Springs and the new Four Seasons. Beautiful view of Mt. St. Helena off the back of the property. City water and sewer in the street available. $599,000

Brian Durnian, Broker

Ziggy Gutierrez, Realtor

ARCHITEX ANGLE

a focus on

Saving Water

Photos by Shawn Paul Lucien

Xeriscape landscape with grey water.

he recent 51st Earth Day should be a big reminder of how essential and precious water is as one of our most essential natural resources. Our awareness of water management grows while historic chronic California droughts require a new focus on conservation. Sonoma, in response to the pending drought, elected to inflate what has become an annual event: a rubber dam across the Russian River to collect water and dispense to various county reservoirs. That’s one solution to a crisis. In January, our North CHRIS Bay was expected to have CRAIKER normal rainfall. But the low 2020-2021 rainfall total was recorded at 11.32 inches, or 31% of our average 37.01 inches, the second lowest rainfall recorded since 1893. At the same time, per capita water 14 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

CHRIS CRAIKER

consumption is increasing. Water and sewer rates have increased dramatically over the last decade (100–400%); and new water supply options are too costly or altogether unavailable. Some good news: our sanitary discharges are down 40% over the decade. Woo, woo! The Napa Valley Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) is a task force of local water managers using a federal grant to assist local agencies for the second drought in two years. Napa County has been extremely lucky that our local reservoirs, while low, are not requiring significant reductions in our personal water usage. But that is inevitably going to change. Voluntary reductions from previous summer uses are suggested at 15% by reducing yard watering, avoiding over-spraying, and employing hand-watering and drip irrigation opposed to water-guzzling sprinklers. These are not mandatory....not yet. Clearly, we need to find simple ways of reducing our water usage as new and existing water resources are becoming increasingly scarce throughout the

North Bay. As a practicing architect in Marin in the ‘70s, I experienced extreme droughts for years. The mandatory requirements were harsh but essential. Emergency pipelines across the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge help, and even Native/American rain dancers were employed. Nobody could water their lawns or gardens, showers were severely limited, heavy fines were levied if you exceeded your rationed amount, swimming pools went empty and dishes never looked clean. Neighbors sometimes hitched hoses to their next door neighbors sources, like stealing internet today. Nowadays we are better prepared. Water-saving has become ubiquitous, but we need to do more. In addition, there is the increasing recognition of both water and energy savings by implementing water saving initiatives. Builders and professionals must do a better job at conserving water, especially during construction. We generally think of water efficiency as low flow fixtures and high MAY 2021

Gray water recycling CHRIS CRAIKER

Xeriscape landscape with grey water.

efficacy appliances, but the initial construction of a house requires significant site cleaning, dust reduction and water for mortar and concrete. Efficiency should start with the first shovel in the ground. Our future water conservation strategy must include aggressive system optimization, more efficient water systems design, water reuse / MAY 2021

recycling, leak detection, repair and replacement of failing systems. We can all learn and be a part of the solution. Chris d Craiker, AIA/NCARB, lived on a Sausalito houseboat in ‘70s and often windsurfed to work in Mill Valley. It would take two hours and a lot of falls.

One overlooked conservation measure is recycling gray water, which is now legal. In droughts and even normal daily use, gray water is a good step forward when done right. The California Health and Safety code allows untreated waste water that has not been contaminated by toilet discharge or infectious body waste, to be released into yard areas. More than half of the water used in sinks, s h o w e r s , dishwashers and washing machines is considered gray water. Obviously, we can’t recycle toilet flushes, but re-using your internal water waste eases the burden on local treatment plants and potentially reduce municipal water expenGreenSmart d i t u r e s . A n y household can Gray Water Diverter I install fixtures for gray water distribution without a permit. Gray water must be released above ground surfaces and into rock, soil or other solid shields to cover the release point. Ponding or tank storage is not allowed. To see how easy it is, check out: youtube.com/watch?v=xe-15ziDX5A A new device has been certified for residential gray water use is now available that makes it easy to recycle household waters into the yard for irrigation or back into the sewer system. GreenSmart Sustainable Concept’s wireless remote-control gray water diverter. See “First UPC-Certified Graywater Diverter for Residential Use Now Available,” Builder Magazine (builderonline.com). DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 15

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ST. HELENA REAL ESTATE NAPA VALLEY I SONOMA

NAPA VALLEY INDUSTRIAL FARMHOUSE

ST. HELENA COMPOUND

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

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

ST. HELENA

$16,950,000 I 861CONNVALLEY.COM

ST. HELENA I $6,325,000 I NAPAVALLEYHOME.ORG

MATT BJORNER 310.528.1768 I Mbjorner@gmail.com

JACQUELINE WESSEL 707.738.7338 I Jacquelinenapavalley@gmail.com

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

NAPA VALLEY ESTATE SITE

Large parcel with two separate residen al units and walking distance to downtown St. Helena. Features two garages / storage units.

Excep onal 2.25 Acre parcel located in a private rural enclave of high -end residen al estates and just minutes to Downtown St. Helena.

ST. HELENA I $1,100,000

ST. HELENA I $1,550,000 I

MICHELLE WAGNER 707.637.3465 I Michelle.m.wagner78@gmail.com

MATT BJORNER 310.528.1768 I Mbjorner@gmail.com

IMPRESSIVE ST. HELENA RESIDENCE

UPSCALE COUNTRY COTTAGE

Minutes to Downtown, this upscale residence oﬀer 4 beds / 4 baths, pool, outdoor entertainment area, privacy and invi ng ﬂoorplan.

Beau fully maintained with upgrades throughout. 2 bed / 2 bath main co age with guest house, gardens, bocce and outdoor venues.

ST. HELENA I $2,750,000

CALISTOGA I $1,399,000

GAIL MORGAN LANE 707.291.0156 I Gail0634@gmail.com

STHELENAREALESTATE.COM 1346 Main Street , St. Helena, CA I 707.967.9570

LIC# 01026604

13BOURNEMOUTH.COM

THE PEAKS AROUND US Above the fog: Conditions on Howell Mountain make for intense, collectable wines

Layne Randolph

18 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

MAY 2021

Henry Lutz, Register

A worker covers a grafted rootstock in a Howell Mountain vineyard.

LAYNE RANDOLPH

ucked away amongst pine, oak, and fir tree forests, the off-the-beaten-path Howell Mountain appellation is so humble that it feels like a secret. Northeast of St. Helena and the Silverado Trail, even its name is obscure – there is no mountain at all — the area sits on an elevated plateau. The Howell Mountain American Viticultural Association (AVA) took its name from a tiny town in the forest when it became the first official sub-appellation in Napa Valley in 1983. Over a century before, French, Italian, and German immigrants brought their native winemaking traditions to the area and began cultivating vineyards. It did not take long for Howell Mountain wines to make an international splash. In 1889, French vintners Jean Chaix and Jean Brun won a bronze medal at the Paris World Competition with their Nouveau Medoc wine. The W.S. Keyes Liparita Winery won the grand prize at the 1900 Paris Exposition with its Howell Mountain Claret, and La Jota Vineyard Co.’s Blanco wine won a bronze medal. Those in the know revere Howell Mountain for the notable American wine history, the secluded and tranquil setting, the incredible soil and position above the fog line, and the world-renowned wines. Howell Mountain deserves the acclaim. The most impactful influences contributing to the exceptional fruit grown in the appellation are location and elevation. The AVA peaks at 2,500 feet above sea level, and the higher elevation offers cool MAY 2021

temperatures. Cooler temperatures translate to a later-than-usual bud break, extended hang time, and a later harvest. These three factors allow the fruit to reach its maximum potential and help develop intense color and flavor in the grapes and resulting wines. Another feature contributing to the fantastic fruit from Howell Mountain is the geological makeup of the area. Ages ago, volcanoes shaped Napa Valley. Although not a volcano’s site, the lava flows left behind white volcanic ash adding to the geology that makes the soils unique today. Howell Mountain soil is a combination of white, crumbly volcanic ash known as “tufa” and iron-rich red clay soil. Volcanic soil is distinct; it is nutrient-poor and quick-draining, two qualities that force vines to struggle and dig deep for nutrients. Vines that must work hard to survive yield smaller grapes with a higher skinto-juice ratio. That ratio equates to dark, vibrant color and deep, concentrated flavor. But enhanced flavor is not the only benefit; vineyards grown on a combination of volcanic and red clay soils produce wine with higher tannins and excellent age-ability – two hallmarks of excellent and collectible wine. With their position above the fog line, these soils help create the qualities synonymous with Howell Mountain wines. The Howell Mountain AVA possesses optimal conditions for growing wine grapes. Perched above the fog line, blessed with California sunshine, and home to blissful (and lucky) little grapes, the Howell Mountain AVA stands above the rest.

Henry Lutz, Register

A vineyard worker grafts a Cabernet Sauvignon bud to rootstock in a Howell Mountain vineyard.

Layne Randolph

DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 19

NORTH BAY

real estate trends for April 2021

Dreamstime

EAR OVER YEAR COMPARISONS In mid-March 2020, the COVID19 pandemic was declared and all parties were told to “Shelter in Place”. This basically shut down the residential real estate industry through the month of April 2020. The market then accelerated rapidly in May through GERRETT SNEDAKER October. Year over year statistical comparisons are therefore going to be skewed by these market aberrations. NORTH BAY REAL ESTATE TRENDS FOR APRIL 2021 For all of the areas covered 20 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

GERRETT SNEDAKER, CRB by our Multiple Listing Service (BAREIS), which includes Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties, there is an inventory of 1,615 homes and condominiums for sale at the end of April. Inventory is 41% below that of a year ago (2,759) and it is 13% ahead of the inventory last month (1,450). At times, the inventory has exceeded 10,000 homes in the BAREIS region. There were 1,829 sales for the month of April. This number is 119% above a year ago (836) and slightly below the pace of last month (1,852). My financial adviser (John Engstrom with Fidelity Investments) used the term “frothy” to describe the North Bay real estate market in his eyes. It is bubbling and percolating at a rapid rate. I have been following a

data point I call the “Price Reduction Ratio”. Across the country, one might expect that 30 to 35% of the homes put into the MLS to sell will have a price reduction before they eventually sell. For April 2021, of all closed homes in Napa County, the ratio was 17.5%. Conversely, the ratio of homes selling in excess of Original List Price was 54%. When one sees over 50% of the homes selling in excess of original list price – that is an intriguing statistic. Napa County: The inventory of homes and condominiums available for sale in Napa County at the end of April (228) is 35% below the inventory in April 2020 (348) and it is 10% above the inventory last month (208). Sixty-five percent of the inventory in Napa County (149 properties)

is priced at $1,000,000 or above. New sales (165) are 120% ahead of the pace of last year (75) and are 4% below the 172 sales last month. There is a 1.4 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for homes closing in Napa County is currently 49 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. The median price of the 159 homes closed in April in Napa County ($895,000) is 25% ahead of the median Please see Trends, Page 22 MAY 2021

707-294-2559 • 333 3rd Street • Napa 707-864-8814 • 4685 Central Way • Fairfield 707-446-2815 • 591 Orange Drive • Vacaville www.PearsonsAppliance.com

TRENDS From 20

price of a year ago ($715,000). Over the past four months, Napa County homes are selling at roughly 97% of original list price. Napa County Luxur y Homes: If one takes the highest quartile (25%) of available inventory as the “Luxury Market”, the Luxury Market begins at $3.750,000 in Napa County at this time, up from $2,900,000 last month. There has been an increase of 134% for the number of closings (68) of Luxury Homes (sales price in excess of $3,750,000) in Napa County for the period 5/1/20 to 4/30/21 compared to 29 closings in the period 5/1/19 to 4/30/20. There are 60 luxury homes in inventory at the end of April 2021 compared to 61 at the end of April 2020. There were 12 new Luxury Home sales in April compared to 3 last year and 9 last month. This results in a 5 months supply of available Luxury Homes based on the current sales pace compared to a 1.4 months supply for the County as a whole. Days on market for the 9 luxury homes closings in April was 107 days. Over the past four months, Napa County Luxury Homes are selling at roughly 93% of original list price. Napa: Fifty-three percent of the inventory in Napa County is in the City of Napa. There are 121 available homes and condominiums in inventory at the end of April in the City of Napa. This is 38% below the supply at the end of April 2020 (196) and it is 10% above the inventory at the end of last month (110). New sales (105) were 110% ahead of the pace of April 2020 (50) and they were 15% below the pace of last month (124). There is a 1.2 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for the 125 closings last month 22 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

was 48 days. The median price of the homes that closed in the City of Napa in April was $860,000. This is 17% ahead of the median price of the homes closed in April 2020 ($735,000). 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 April (88) is 17% below the level of 106 in April 2020 and it is 14% ahead of the inventory last month (77). There were 36 new sales this month compared to 10 a year ago (remember the COVID effect) and 33 last month. There is now a 2.4 months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. The Days on Market for the 24 closings last month was 53 days. Approximately 57% of

the Luxury Market inventory (price in excess of $3,750,000) in Napa County is in the Up Valley Market (34 homes). There was one luxury home (price in excess of $3,750,000) closing in the Up Valley Market last month and there were six new luxury home sales. In Angwin in April, inventory was 15 homes compared to 10 a year ago and 18 last month. There were nine new sales in Angwin for the month up from two a year ago and four last month. American Canyon: There are only 7 available homes and condominiums in inventory at the end of April in American Canyon. This is 56% below the inventory a year ago (16) and it is slightly above the supply last month (5). There were 9 new sales in the month. This is 29% above the pace of last year (7) and 50% above the 6 sales last month. There is a 1

months supply of inventory based on the current sales pace. American Canyon remains the tightest market in Wine Country. The Days on Market for 7 homes that closed in American Canyon last month was just 27 days. The median price of the homes that closed in American Canyon in April ($665,000) was 21% ahead of the median price of a year ago ($565,000). The average price per square foot of the homes sold in American Canyon was at $346 last month, This is above the $275 to $300 range where the sales have been. For additional information, please contact Gerrett Snedaker at 707-939-2009 or gsned@winecountrygroup.com For more information, please contact Gerrett Snedaker at 707-939-2009 or gsned@winecountrygroup. com. MAY 2021

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535 Viewridge Drive Angwin | $1,795,000 3 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms | 2,853 SF | 1.69 acres Peace, tranquility and privacy awaits in the rolling hills of the Napa Valley. Just minutes to St Helena, this one of a kind retreat truly embodies healthy living for mind, body and spirit. Designed to enjoy the stunning views, folding doors open from the main living area to the pool deck and guest house for indoor/outdoor living. Phantom screens appear with the touch of a button to protect you from the elements. The kitchen is a Chef’s dream featuring a La Cornue dual fuel range with double ovens, Liebherr refrigerator, soft close lacquer cabinets and under cabinet refrigerator drawers. The master suite has vaulted ceilings, a large walk-in closet and a sitting area with access to the pool, Jacuzzi Infrared Sauna and outdoor shower.The property has a whole home water ﬁlter, 30 owned solar panels, earth and plaster walls,vinyl pool with ozonator, fountains, river flow current and automatic cover, a guest cottage, an Art studio and a workshop/garage. Your Napa Valley dream is here.

Mark Tate

Broker Associate 707.337.2057 lic.#01321104

0 Madrona Ave

11074thAve.com

buildable lot | .5+/- Acres

3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,273 SF

Private and secluded build lot Just below western hills of prestigious St. Helena Cleared and ready to build Great place for your Napa Valley dream home

First time on market in 50+ years Quiet East Napa location Approx. 1.2 +/- acres Gated property with countless amenities

1310BanksAve.com

131VineyardCir.com

St. Helena | $1,485,000

Napa | $969,000

Napa | $1,199,000

Yountville | $849,000

3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,531 SF

2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1,154 SF

Desirable Alta Heights location Lots of light and open feel Beautiful hardwood floors Private backyard for relaxing

Stunningly remodeled Yountville condo Hardwood floors throughout Private wine room Designer ﬁnishes, sold turnkey

$2,795,000 Yountville

3 4 BEDS BATHS

17StagsViewLane.com • Large lot accommodates RV parking and hookups • Pool outdoor kitchen • Loft area for home oﬃce

• Custom Chefs kitchen • Three bedroom suites • Warm floors throughout • Wine cellar • Outdoor home theater

$1,450,000 Napa

1 ACRE

1145 Ragatz Lane This rare one acre parcel is located just to the south of Yountville on the valley floor close to restaurants, shopping and wine tasting. Permitted plans for a gorgeous 2400sq ft, single story modern farmhouse with 2 car garage and the option for a pool, are included. Many improvements have been made including: Approved Engineered Septic system Plans & Permit, All Civil /Soils Engineering for Grading, Erosion Control Encroachment and Flood Plain Permits per County and FEMA, PGE 400 amp dual meter for domestic and well installed, Building pad/site has been cleaned. The building process can move forward at an expedited rate, with all the work that has already been completed for you. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of a nice size parcel with all these improvements in a sought after location.

$1,250,000 Napa

2 2.5 BEDS BATHS

153 Milliken Creek Great location on the 12th tee of the championship North Course of Silverado Country Club. Enjoy the wonderful views of the golf course and sunsets from the oversized deck. This huge condo features massive vaulted ceilings in the great room, beautiful built-in cabinetry, new carpet and laminate floors through out. Large great room and dining room with golf course views. Great kitchen and breakfast nook are perfectly appointed. Freshly painted inside and out and ready to enjoy.Two car garage plus the golf cart garage, with the golf cart included!

Cyndi Gates Broker Associate 707.333.7770

CyndiGates.com 6550 Washington St. Yountville, CA 94599 CalDRE#00711618

4080 Atlas Peak Rd | Napa $5,999,500

2000 Silverado Trail | Napa $1,799,000

3 beds | 2.5 baths | 3,300 SF

4 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms | 2,646 SF

Kelly Norris 707.294.8885 k.norris@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01874429

Samson, Simone & Ray Team 707.342.0809 d.samson@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01915989

102 Lilac Ln | St. Helena $1,375,000

1010 Myrtle St | Calistoga $1,230,000

3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,765 SF

3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 2,216 SF

Steve & Marla Ericson 707.483.2428 teamericson@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01054001 & 01067260

Teresa Barboza 707.318.9900 t.barboza@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01312062

6870-A Jeﬀerson St | Yountville $1,175,000

135 Vineyard Cir | Yountville $709,000

2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,215 SF

2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,154 SF

Vincent J. Ruggiero 707.479.8052 v.ruggiero@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01077425

Napa Valley’s Only Locally Owned & Operated Sotheby’s Realty Oﬃce

1081 Evans St | Napa $649,000

9421 Oak Trail Cir | Santa Rosa $597,000

590 Wall Rd | Napa $579,000

3 bedrooms | 2 bathroom | 1,008 SF

2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,414 SF

buildable lot | 10.49± acres

Marla Arrambide 707.280.2799 m.arrambide@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01790981

Bill Birdsong 707.689.8016 b.birdsong@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01915228

Lynn Carl 707.481.4100 l.carl@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01997048

Dry Creek Rd | Napa $499,000

Linda Falls Terrace | Angwin $449,500

3422 Willis Dr | Napa $449,000

buildable lot | 2.89± acres

Buildable lot | 1.63± acres

3 bedrooms | 1.5 bathrooms | 1,320 SF

Teresa Barboza 707.318.9900 t.barboza@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01312062

Jeﬀ Veness 707.227.2827 j.veness@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01486001

Samson, Simone & Ray Team 707.342.0809 d.samson@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01915989

2410 Harness | Pope Valley $330,000

13612 Golf Rd | Cobb $268,000

1070 Westridge Dr | Napa $65,000

2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 2,678 SF

2 bedrooms | 1 bathroom | 839 SF

buildable lot | .21± acres

Jeﬀ Veness 707.227.2827 j.veness@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01486001

Bill Birdsong 707.689.8016 b.birdsong@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01915228

6550 Washington Street | Yountville, CA 94599 707.944.0888 | vintagesothebysrealty.com Each oﬃce is independently owned and operated

Margaret Schloezer 707.495.5027 m.schloezer@vintagesothebysrealty.com lic.#01842724

Photos Tim Carl LLC

The cycle of nature Oak gall ecosystem includes tales from the crypt

ak apples, sometimes called oak potatoes, are actually galls. Galls are abnormal outgrowths of plant tissue — brown, smooth-skinned balls about the size of a small apple — that are caused by parasitic insects, mites or fungi. In the Napa Valley most of the visible galls are found on or around California’s Valley Oaks, which are grand trees that might live for up to 600 years or more. Since I was a child I have been fascinated by oak galls. Back then I would often use my fingernail to carve out a face on the smooth globes, perhaps placing a small stick into a perfectly round hole that always seemed present. I had no idea what these strange airy spheres were, but I assumed they might be oak seed pods. In fact, what they are is a fascinating and complex ecosystem for the benefit of a small wasp. Oak 30 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

TIM CARL

galls are also an important source of tannin. So before we get to the wasps, first a word about tannins. Tannins, also called tannic acid, are hydrolyzable chemicals (those that break down in water) that are pale yellow to light brown amorphous substances in the form of powder, flakes or a spongy mass. They are widely distributed in plants and used chiefly in tanning leather, dyeing fabric, making ink and various medical applications. Tannin solutions are acidic and have an astringent taste, making them responsible for the astringency, color, and some of the flavor and texture in tea and wine. Tannins occur normally in the roots, wood, bark, leaves and fruit of many plants, particularly in oak species. Now on to the wasps. In North America there are more than 800 species of gall wasps (often called gallflies), each of which can cause different types of

galls to form on trees and plants. Worldwide there are over 1,600 different gall-wasp species. A female gall wasp injects her egg into the base of a developing oak leaf in early spring. The injection brings with it a hormone that causes a blister to form and then grow into a visible oak gall. Early on these are green and elastic, but within one to two years they dry into the hard, surprisingly lightweight brown balls with which we are most familiar. Galls created by other insects or different plants and trees can come in a vast array of shapes and sizes — from spiky to fuzzy, with some even appearing as tiny red cones on the undersides of leaves. Inside each oak gall is a single egg that will develop into a wasp. The embryo pupates into a juvenile wasp, eating the nutritious pulp from inside and carving out a center as it grows. Eventually the young wasp will bore a tunnel out of the gall so that it might

start the process all over again. Oak gall wasps are characterized by complex cyclically parthenogenetic life cycles. That is, there are times when these insects reproduce asexually (without a male). At other times or in subsequent generations the gall wasps might reproduce sexually (male/ female). Partheno comes from the Greek parthénos, meaning “maiden” or “virgin.” The rarely used adjective parthenic, meaning “virginal” or “pure,” also derives from this root. The Parthenon, located at the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, is the temple of Athena — the virgin goddess who is associated with wisdom, handicraft and warfare. Gall wasps are parasitic in that they manipulate the oak tree into raising, protecting and nurturing their young; however, oak galls are not believed to injure the oak trees in any meaningful way. The word “gall” can mean MAY 2021

brazen or refer to boldness coupled with impudence and insolence. It can also mean bitter or suggest a bitterness of spirit or bile (e.g., the gallbladder’s fluid). As a verb, gall signifies irritation, vexation or being worn away by friction — as in, “The loose saddle galled the horse’s back.” As a noun it means an abnormal outgrowth of a plant induced by a parasite or a sore on the skin or exasperation. Its origins are from Middle English galle and Old English gealla, galla, which goes back to Germanic gallōn, Galla — each a derivation of Greek, chlōros (greenish yellow) and Sanskrit, hari (yellowish). Bile is a yellow-green fluid made and released by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Bile MAY 2021

helps with digestion by breaking down fats into fatty acids, which can be taken into the body by the digestive tract. If you vomit for a long time you may see bitter bile coming up. Euderus set is a parasite to the parasitic gall wasp. As you might know, scientists use the genus and then species for taxonomical ranking of organisms. Therefore, in this case, for this wasp, Euderus is the genus and ‘set’ is the species. As for some foreshadowing, Set was the Egyptian god of chaos and war and often infected those he touched with pain and death. His partner was the goddess Tawaret, a hippo-headed deity who presided over fertility and childbirth. In one story Set locked his brother

Osiris in a crypt so that he might perish. The female E. set uses a tubelike ovipositor to place her egg into the developing oak gall. There a tiny juvenile E. set excretes an unknown chemical that causes the juvenile gall wasp to start drilling a hole up and out from the center. The problem is that the hole this mind-controlled gall wasp creates has a taper, so that what was supposed to be an escape route ends up being a trap that is too small for the gall wasp to fit through and fly away. Just as the gall wasp sees light, the hole becomes too small. As it pushes farther, it only becomes more entrapped. Instead of building an escape tunnel, the gall wasp has been manipulated into building its own grave. Deeper inside, in the heart of the oak gall, the little E. set takes its time. Eventually, after it has grown to its full size, the slightly smaller intruder begins to ascend the predrilled tunnel, eating its

way up through the body of its host before emerging into daylight. These findings were first documented in a 2017 study published by the Royal Society titled, “Tales from the crypt: a parasitoid manipulates the behavior of its parasite host.” Next time you see an oak gall lying on the ground, have a look and see if you might notice a small round hole in its exterior. If you peer more closely, you might just see the remnants of a gall wasp’s body ringing the diameter. At the very least, you will be observing a fascinating world that scientists are just beginning to understand. When I drill down into nearly any subject I normally find many more topics of interest and unanswered questions. The very fact that the world remains full of mysteries fills me with an intense hunger to look more closely and mindfully at what is around me. When I do I experience equal parts of wonder and awe. DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 31

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SELLING NAPA VALLEY

R E A L T O R

BEDS

BATHS

1/2 BA

$4,950,000 Napa

1040 Loma Vista Drive Brand new construction modern farmhouse design with stunning views in a private/serene setting. Phenomenal ﬂoor plan with great room concept offering vaulted exposed beam ceilings with clerestory windows, and ﬂoor to ceiling walls of glass that showcase the extraordinary views.

BEDS

BATHS

$3,195,000 St. Helena

1305 Stockton Street Sophisticated 1902 remodeled farmhouse. Modern white on white palate, ironwood hardwood ﬂoors, high ceilings, shiplap walls, and wood frame windows/doors. Gourmet kitchen and 46 bottle wine refrigerator. Outdoor entertaining area, pool, ﬁre pit, and a resort-like back yard.

BEDS

BATHS

1/2 BA

Napa

18 Old Coach Road Stunning view property in a gated setting on east side of Napa. Mostly single level custom home with primary living areas on the main level. Perfect synergy of indoor/outdoor living with multiple outdoor entertaining areas. Temperature controlled wine cellar and whole house generator.

BEDS

BATHS

1/2 BA

$3,495,000 Napa

4254 Dry Creek Road California adobe style ranch property with stunning views in private/gated setting in Dry Creek corridor of north Napa. Gorgeous park-like grounds with extraordinary single level home. Hacienda style with deep front porch, redwood ceilings, and French doors. Heated pool and park-like grounds.

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, Wine Country 2018, 2019, 2020

$3,995,000

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

Light switches and wallplates need cleaning too:

tips to try

Brandpoint

o help limit the spread of germs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces. Tabletops, desks, vanities, faucets and door handles often make this list, but two things that are touched frequently throughout the day are often forgotten during cleaning: light switches and wallplates. Hidden dangers such as bacteria and pathogens can build up on these surfaces, transfer to hands when touched and end up redistributed throughout the home. To help keep your home healthy, you can take steps to regularly and properly keep light switches and wallplates clean.

AVOID CHEMICALS Common household disinfectants with chemical agents may cause more harm than good to the switch or wallplate because certain cleaning agents can interfere with the electrical components, leading to safety issues, or cause damage to the surface area of the wallplate. If during cleaning you notice any irregularities on your switches or wallplates, such as cracking or discoloration, replace them immediately. 34 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

BRANDPOINT

LIQUID AND ELECTRICITY DON’T MIX Because of the connection to an electrical source, it’s important to clean light switches and wallplates in a safe manner. Liquid and electricity are a bad combination. You should never spray or wipe a detergent or disinfectant solution directly on light switches, outlets, dimmers, USB charger outlets or wallplates. To safely clean these devices, simply use a lightly damp cloth with mild soap. TURN THE POWER OFF Be certain to turn the power off to the device prior to cleaning. Due to risk of shock or electrocution, do not use disinfecting products, including foggers, sprays or other types of atomized cleaning agents. Plus, if the liquid seeps into the switch or outlet, it can damage the internal components, resulting in a fire hazard. Cleaning solutions can also damage or discolor the device’s surface or cause it to deteriorate over time, which may include cracking. “Cleaning your electrical devices is not a big job, but it is one that needs to be handled with care,” said William Randall, director of product management at Leviton. “Taking the proper precautions and cleaning these

surfaces regularly can help reduce the spread of harmful bacteria to help keep your family and home healthy.” CONSIDER ANTIMICROBIAL SWITCHES For extra protection, Leviton offers Antimicrobial switches and wallplates for your home. “Antimicrobial refers to any substance that eradicates or inhibits the growth of bacteria by suppressing bacteria reproduction,” explains Randall. “Our antimicrobial switches and wallplates are engineered to help combat the spread of harmful bacteria and contain an EPA registered additive that protects the surfaces from contamination. When cleaned regularly with a cloth dampened with water and mild soap, that additive works to inhibit 99% of bacterial growth.” As with cleaning any switch or wallplate, be certain to turn the power off at the circuit breaker or fuse prior to cleaning and to switch back on when you have completed the job. With proper and regular cleaning of light switches and wallplates, you can feel confident you’re creating a bright, fresh appearance and a healthier home. MAY 2021

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

Monticello Road Vineyard

Mark Lesti

13.49 acres

Adjacent to “Contemporary Home with Vineyard” lies this gated Napa Valley vineyard opportunity with 10.6 vine acres planted in chardonnay. Possible building site suitable for a high-end residence with fabulous views of vineyards and distant Western hills.

707.320.8950

$7,200,000

707.320.8950

$4,000,00

Contemporary Getaway 3bd/2ba/2806’/10.16ac Tranquil, private, and exclusive country get-away. On Napa’s east side, yet only 20 minutes to downtown Napa. Near famed Stagecoach Vineyards, this bucolic 10+ acre property includes a 2,806’ main house (3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms), 520’ guest house (1 bedroom and 1 bathroom), and a huge 3,200’ Workshop with Studio Apartment and 1 bathroom. Passive solar-heated Swimming Pool with shade structure, Fruit Tree Orchard, raised garden beds A 5-acre vineyard-ready plot with an already approved erosion control plan!!! Views of Atlas Peak within the Rector Watershed and Foss Valley all the way to Rutherford. Live and relax in the famed Atlas Peak appellation. www.3580SodaCanyonRd.com

Views at Silverado CC 4bd/4ba/4408’/.56ac Huge view windows bring in the sun and the joy to this spectacular home. Main-level living with views, kitchen, living, and dining room, as well as the primary suite and two more junior suites. Great privacy for you and your guests. Multiple office options (both large and small) for your needs of working from home. Lovely hardwood floors. Downstairs area offers many potential uses: another bedroom area that is very private (perfect for in-law, au pair, guests). Also downstairs are two large bonus rooms that could be offices, media room, hobby room, play area, etc. Several outdoor yard, patio, and deck locations to throw the perfect parties! No HOA dues in this very special neighborhood within the Silverado Country Club residential community. Extremely minimal street activity due to the court location. The best of all worlds. www.20BurningTreeCt.com

Mark Lesti

Mark Lesti Christine Lesti

707.320.8950

Christine Lesti 707.320.8999 Lic#01854423

Mark Lesti 707.320.8950 Lic#01784430

$2,250,000

Paul M. Everett 707.299.9949 Lic#02016753

Ted Stumpf 707.246.9825 Lic#02020069

707.320.8950 707.320.8999

Rigo Guijosa 707.540.3615 Lic#02055858

$2,199,000

Gary Prince 707.227.7282 Lic#01735857

(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.

N. 3rd Avenue Privacy 5bd/3ba/3547’/2.2ac So close to downtown Napa, yet worlds away with elbow room, spacious living, and a pool. www.2051NorthThirdAve.com

Two Units on One Lot

Mark Lesti

707.320.8950

$2,795,000

East Side Single Story 3bd/3ba/1807’/0.5ac’ Fully remodeled home on large, entertaining half-acre lot with bocce ball court, fire pit, workshop, and extra storage. Brendan Lesti Mark Lesti

707.337.0659 707.320.8950

$1,149,000

5bd/4ba/2512’/.24ac

Recently updated units offering charm and modern amenities on a large, enjoyable lot. www.1032PuebloAve.com 707.320.8950

$1,275,000

Heart of Napa 3bd/2ba/1092’ Located in the heart of Napa and exuding Pride of Ownership, the open feeling and beautiful backyard of this home welcome you to entertain this summer. Located close to schools, shopping, and Highway 29. Sheree Moorhead

707.287.6665

$649,000

Large Lot 1.58 acres Large lot for residential building purposes. Bucolic settings with nice views. Very spacious and desirable part of Napa. Possible ADU or JADU (check with City of Napa). Not able to subdivide. Come and build your dream home! www.491CasswallSt.com

Panoramic Views 60 acres Striking Hilltop lot with panoramic views, just minutes to Lake Berryessa and 30 minutes to world-class restaurants and wineries in the beautiful Napa Valley.

Mark Lesti

Gary Prince

707.320.8950

$375,000

707.227.7282

$289,000

Nick Valdivia 707.225.5810

Brendan Lesti 707.337.0659

Ashley Cloud 707.320.8040

Dean Castelli 707.694.8294

Steven Adams 707.334.7506

Sheree Moorhead 707.287.6665

Lic#01980975

Lic#01855197

Lic#02112543

Lic#02113716

Lic#02114770

Lic#02118199

STAY ALERT Did you know? Smoke alarms don’t last forever BRANDPOINT

When is the last time you replaced your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms? Smoke and CO alarms are critical elements of home safety. Yet, many people overlook replacing their batteries—or even the alarms themselves. Fire safety experts have linked the incidence of fatal fires to the absence of alarms. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), three out of every five home fire deaths occur in homes without properly working smoke alarms, or no alarms at all. “If you can’t think of the last time you installed a smoke or CO alarm, chances are, it’s time to replace your old ones,” said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert. “It’s important to make sure alarm maintenance and replacement become a regular, ongoing part of your family’s routine.” First Alert, the most trusted brand in fire safety, offers the following tips to ensure your family and home are best protected in the event of a fire or CO incident: EVERY LEVEL, EVERY BEDROOM It’s critical to have enough smoke and CO alarms and ensure they are working properly. The NFPA recommends that smoke alarms be installed on every level of the home, including the basement, and in every bedroom. CO alarms should also be installed on every level and near each sleeping area. To put this in perspective, the average-sized home in America—a two-story, three-bedroom house—needs a minimum of five smoke alarms and four CO alarms. “Every home’s layout and dimensions are different, so consider your specific needs when selecting products to make your home more fire safe,” added Wey.

TEST AND MAINTAIN Many people assume that because they have alarms in their homes, they’re automatically protected in the event of a fire or CO incident. In reality, both smoke and CO alarms need to be maintained and tested regularly to ensure that they’re working properly. Nonetheless, research shows that more than 60% of consumers do not test 38 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

their devices on a monthly basis. Testing the alarm is simple—hold down the test button and wait for the alarm to sound. It’s also important to clean the alarm to remove any dust or debris that could interfere with proper function. ALARMS DON’T LAST FOREVER If you don’t know how old an alarm is, the safest bet is to replace it. Check the date printed on the back of the device. If the alarm is more than 10 years old, it is time to replace it. It is necessary to replace all smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms every five to 10 years, depending on the model. Batteries also don’t last forever and should be replaced

Photos Brandpoint

Not only does the device warn you in case of smoke or CO dangers, but it also features a 10-year sealed battery, which eliminates the needs for battery replacements and late-night battery chirps for a decade.

every six months, unless the alarm features a 10-year sealed battery. As an extra safety measure, most alarms feature an end-of-life warning to alert residents when it is time for replacement. DOUBLE UP ON SAFETY Doubling up on safety and installing 2-in-1 protection, such as the First Alert 10-Year Battery Combination Smoke and CO Alarm, is a convenient way to ensure ultimate home safety by providing a decade of protection against both smoke and CO.

ESTABLISH AN ESCAPE PLAN According to the NFPA, you may have less than two minutes to escape after your smoke alarms sound. Therefore, it is imperative to have an escape plan that everyone in the household follows to evacuate safely. When designing an escape plan, identify two ways out of each room, assign a meeting spot outside, and dedicate someone in the family to assist with pets, elderly family members or infants. Make sure to practice your escape plan with the entire family at least twice a year to help prepare you and your family for the unexpected. To learn more about how to keep your family and home safe, and for more safety tips, visit www.firstalert.com. MAY 2021

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NAPA COUNTY’S LATEST HOME SALES* ADDRESS

RECORD DATE

SALE PRICE BED BATH SQ FT YR BLT Single Family

American Canyon 81 DEERPARK LN

1/22

$380,000

1,056

ADDRESS

RECORD DATE SALE PRICE BED BATH SQ FT YR BLT

1066 OAKMONT CT

$1,200,000

2,379

1982

$1,625,000

3,130

2016

1988

259 KAANAPALI DR

2/2

$1,739,000

2,532

1976

1106 CLARK ST

2/5

$2,705,500

4,109

2004

1/20

$1,700,000

976 MCCORKLE AVE

1/20

$1,350,000

1,716

2004 1998

15 JOAN DR

1/29

$420,000

1,717

1954

5 MONTEREY DR

1/26

$490,000

1,032

1957

209 CAROLYN DR

1/25

$547,000

1,757

1954

Rutherford, Oakville

6 VINE TERRACE WAY

1/25

$585,000

2,916

2000

1591 ARROWHEAD DR

250 PARK LN

2/8

$740,000

2,003

1987

22 SIRAH DR

2/3

$760,000

3,164

2006

Single Family

Napa

2/4 3/25

2567 NAPIER CT

Single Family 1,734

1976

Single Family

St Helena

826 SIGNORELLI CIR

1/22

$1,618,000

2,217

198 ALMOND AVE

1/20

$226,000

840

1943

2325 SPRING MOUNTAIN RD

1/27

$1,850,000

1,831

1973

2371 EVA ST

1/29

$350,000

1,120

1955

1750 DEAN YORK LN

1/29

$5,000,000

3,419

1950

2594 FIRST ST #D

1/20

$555,000

1,442

2018

2596 FIRST ST #A

1/26

$575,000

1,463

2018

2/1

$2,000,000

1801 F ST

1/14

$580,000

922

1948

2651 BRADFORD ST

2/25

$585,000

1,646

1948

801 FOSTER RD

1/14

$625,000

1,221

1955

159 WINGARD CIR 1190 HAYES ST 4372 PLASS DR 3966 LASSEN ST 142 MOSS LN

1/27 1/25 1/25

$685,000 $690,000 $729,000

3 2 3

3 1 2

1,551 1,000 1,652

1999 1938

Single Family

Yountville 6630 JEFFERSON ST

1600 ATLAS PEAK RD #410

1/22

$335,000

429

1968

562 RAINBOW DR

1/26

$565,000

1,587

1981

327 PEAR TREE TE #H

1/14

$596,000

1,472

2020

339 PEAR TREE TE #E

1/20

$675,000

1,843

2020

327 PEAR TREE TE #D

1/22

$684,000

1,843

2020

351 PEAR TREE TE #C

1/14

$691,500

1,843

2020

2/4

$360,000

900

1980

1967

11/25

$742,500

1,375

1968

1/28

$835,000

1,622

1996

3308 TWIN OAKS DR

10/9

$850,000

1,761

1983

5 WHITE TAIL DR

1/29

$875,000

1,988

1993

3/2

$908,500

1,655

1960

4417 SPRINGWOOD CT

1/25

$930,000

2,004

1970

2074 WAVERLY ST

2/16

$1,002,500

1,785

1955

1571 PARK AVE

1/29

$1,125,000

2,415

1932

1129 WESTVIEW DR

1/29

$1,385,000

2,803

1993

1128 PEAR TREE LN

2/5

$449,000

1,285

1993

30 VILLAGE PKWY

2/8

$450,000

1,376

1985

339 PEAR TREE TE #F

2/4

$592,500

1,472

2020

327 PEAR TREE TE #G

2/5

$606,500

1,472

1090 MARIPOSA LN

1/8

$1,599,000

1,990

1969

Berryessa

3/22

$1,850,000

3,260

2000

810 BAHIA VISTA CT

4088 SUTRO DR

1/22

$1,890,000

3,926

1912

2110 LONE OAK AVE

11/6

$325,000

996

1940

102 HOMEWOOD AVE

2/5

$350,000

1,370

1941

2280 ALYSHEBA CT

2/8

$599,000

1,682

2006

1088 SHETLER AVE

2/2

$600,000

1,040

1954

2/1

$615,000

1,316

1941

4437 SUMMERFIELD DR

2/2

$626,000

1,186

1973

4212 PLASS DR

2/1

$690,000

2,024

1961

3405 COVEY CT

2/5

$760,000

1,859

1979

5 TIBURON ST

2/3

$770,000

1,713

2001 1926

$695,000

1/26

$399,000

1/28

$1,150,000

1,316

1975

832

1983

Rural Residential

Calistoga 5326 PETRIFIED FOREST RD

2,925

1995

Rural Residential

Napa 1/20

$487,500

2,322

1980

Rural Residential

Pope, Chiles, Wooden Valleys 2555 WAGON WHEEL DR

1/29

$175,000

1,560

2008

54 JUNIPER DR

1/20

$575,000

1,430

1984

3/2

$810,000

1,344

2016 1995

9138 STEELE CANYON RD 1911 CAPELL VALLEY RD

1/26

$999,000

1,170

4473 ATLAS PEAK RD

1/29

$1,250,000

1,200

1/26

$4,350,000

1033 CLARK ST

2/1

$840,000

1,032

1966 PINE ST

2/2

$850,000

1,864

1958

Rutherford, Oakville

72 FIRST ST

2/8

$1,200,000

1,368

1920

1731 CABERNET LN

*As recorded at the Napa County Tax Assessors Office / John Tuteur (707) 253-4459 / Property sales reported may include partial interest transfers; sales that are included with other properties; sales that are less any liens on property.

MAY 2021

1/14

Rural Residential

1031 BERRY LN

44 CHELSEA AVE

2020

Condos

St Helena

3455 WESTMINSTER CT

641 CABOT CT

1880

Condos

Napa

405 FREEWAY DR

148 KERNS CT

1,646

Vineyard Residential 4

3,621

1979

www.NapaValleyRegister.com/Homes DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES | 41

Perfecting your imperfect

pantry Tips to achieve inner calm through an organized space BRANDPOINT

When you open your kitchen pantry, is it streamlined and tidy or more cluttered and chaotic? The state of your home impacts your state of mind, so getting better organized in the kitchen can help you feel calmer in other parts of life. Cleaning and organizing our homes gives us something we can control when we can’t control much of the rest of the world—even with a space as small as a pantry. Stylist, interior designer and TV host Emily Henderson has a few tricks for keeping her pantry clean and user-friendly. As a mother to two small children, she knows clean cupboards are key to keeping her family life from getting too chaotic. Here are her favorite ways to refresh and rearrange pantries and cupboards, to maximize space no matter its size and give your kitchen a more beautiful look: to reach. Everyday cooking items like rice, pasta and dry beans should be placed a bit BUY IN BULK higher, followed by baking ingredients— This saves on packaging waste and offers and anything else used less often—up top. a better glimpse of what foods you have and Remember, every household functions a bit how much. Plus, this helps prevent last-min- differently, so adopt a hierarchy system that ute runs to the store for a missing ingredi- works best for you. ent when you’re in the middle of cooking a meal. Try keeping pantry staples like flour, DECANT sugar, pasta, coffee and cereal fresh in secure, Decanting means moving pantry staples space-saving containers such as Rubbermaid from their original packaging into a differBrilliance® Pantry that fit in the pantry or ent, labeled container, usually a clear one like cupboard. Airtight, clear and stackable con- Brilliance® Pantry. These containers feature tainers like these keep you organized and StainShield™ plastic so containers stay lookon task. ing new, 360-degree crystal clarity, a twolatch lid for a secure seal and a variety of CREATE A HIERARCHY sizes to accommodate any amount of food Organize shelves based on ease and acces- you need to store. Being able to see what sibility. Keep snacks like pretzels, cookies and how much is inside a container makes and bars at a lower height, as they’re easier cooking, packing lunches and baking more 42 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

Brandpoint

efficient—plus, it makes the pantry appear more luxurious. ADAPT TO YOUR SPACE If you keep a system, it doesn’t matter if you have a walk-in pantry or only a few shelves to work with. Choose containers that are modular and stackable to maximize vertical space, then designate sections for certain tasks. Baking might be in one section, breakfast items in another, snacks in a separate space, and so on. Taking time to organize pantry and cupboard spaces now will have long-term benefits. Not only does it make the kitchen more pleasing to look at, but a pantry that’s perfect for you helps save time, reduces potential food waste and frustration—but most importantly, it inspires a more positive state of mind. MAY 2021

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SPRING PROJECT INSPIRATION

A bidet leaves you and the bath clean and refreshed Photos Brandpoint

BRANDPOINT

There’s nothing like the arrival of warmer weather to get you energized to pick up some home improvement projects. If you’re feeling a bounce in motivation for a bath update, you’re in good company. Nearly one-third of adults (31%) said their home renovation in 2021 would be focused on the bath, according to a recent marketing survey. To achieve that spring refresh, adding a bidet may be just the update you seek. It couldn’t be simpler, and yet, it offers more than a cosmetic update. Choose the right model, and a bidet offers luxury, style and elevates your self-care routine. As you shop for the perfect model, there are a couple of options sure to fit your needs and your budget. Bidet seat: This can be a quick and approachable investment for the bathroom. It can be installed on a standard toilet and ready to operate within a single evening, so you can start enjoying the benefits right away. Bidet toilet: This is a serious upgrade for the home that delivers more spa-like experiences and self-cleaning features to recharge your daily routine. To help you find the right bidet to make your spring rejuvenation project complete, here’s a look at how this upgrade can bring that spring transformation to your bath space. Enhance your wellness routine: There’s no 44 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

shortage of options when it comes to finding a bidet. The key to a high-quality bidet seat are the advanced personal cleansing technologies that support superior self-care. Simplify your search by going to the source. TOTO is the Japanese company that transformed the bidet into a tech-forward home luxury. Their latest, the WASHLET C5, lets you have that in your home without breaking the bank. After a simple installation that connects the bidet seat to the home’s fresh water supply, it’s ready to deliver a soothing warm flow of aerated water that’s always clean and pure. Use the water temperature and volume controls to

personalize the experience. Once the cleansing cycle is completed, you can activate the drying cycle, which uses warm air to gently dry. Not only will this bidet seat take self-care to the next level in the bathroom, but it also protects the environment by reducing the need for toilet tissue. Maintain a healthier home: A high-end bidet is a true investment for the home. Not only does it have additional spa-like features, such as a night light and a heated seat, but it also offers touchless technology. The Aquia IV Arc WASHLET+ S550e by TOTO has sensing technology that opens and closes the lid, and has an auto-flush option. Going touchless reduces the spread of germs and promotes hygiene. Thoughtful design: When you’re making this kind of investment in the bath, you’ll want to evaluate how the bidet contributes to the overall design of the bath. Ideally, your bidet should add a modern touch that instantly elevates the space. Look for a skirted design, with a smooth base that hides the trapway. High-end bidet toilets offer a seamless integration of the supply line and power cord, which eliminates unwanted visual clutter. Start fresh this spring with superior products and technologies that will leave you and your home feeling cleansed and refreshed. Find these at TOTOUSA.com. MAY 2021

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INVITE NATURE INSIDE

inspiring ways to bring beauty into the home Brandpoint

It’s no secret that nature has the power to inspire, invigorate, restore and refresh. Research shows that nature can offer mental health benefits including decreasing stress and relieving anxiety. In fact, incorporating elements of nature into the home has been proven to improve happiness and well-being. Following are five ways to invite the beauty and benefits of the outdoors into your home.

BRANDPOINT

collection includes environmentally sustainable materials such as High Pressure Laminates, seamless Solid Surface choices and non-porous engineered Quartz in designs that mimic the best of Mother Nature without impacting the environment.

CALM WITH COLOR Whether used as a room’s canvas or a pop of color on an accent wall, paint is an easy and affordable way to evoke nature’s beauty in the home. In fact, decorating with paint colors inspired by nature can bring a sense of calm and serenity to any living space. Dark blue hues reminiscent of water and the sky are trending, along with lush greens that infuse spaces with the fresh essence of grass and foliage, and nature’s neutrals like tans and beiges that express earthiness.

GET IN TOUCH WITH NATURE According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, 40% of people want a connection to nature in their kitchen. One way to achieve this is by choosing nature-inspired materials for focal areas like countertops, cabinets and kitchen islands. Wilsonart Home offers beautiful, on-trend options for virtually every surface in the home with performance LET TEXTILES features and price points to suit TAKE YOU AWAY any lifestyle and budget. The Natural fabrics and fibers are 46 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES

a great way to keep things, well, natural. Add a jute rug or chunky knitted wool throw to your space. When picking a fabric/fiber, make sure to choose earthy tones inspired by nature. The Wilsonart HPL Textiles collection is another unique way to incorporate textiles that connect indoor spaces with the great outdoors. It offers a unique line of woven, nubby and printed textile designs that can bring an unexpected touch of nature to any surface or corner of the home, from kitchens to closets. ADD WARMTH WITH WOOD LOOKS The timeless look of wood is making a return to kitchens and baths but with a modern flair for a new generation. Think velvety, warm woodgrain looks gorgeously showcased in flat front doors with minimalist hardware. The Wilsonart Traceless collection is an affordable way to update kitchen and bath cabinetry with

sophisticated woodgrain designs available in panel door styles with matching edgeband. The collection also features innovative fingerprint-resistant technology that eliminates smears, smudges and streaks, delivering low-maintenance luxury. BRING THE OUTDOORS IN WITH NATURAL ACCENTS Nature itself offers an endless array of accessories that can be incorporated into a home’s design aesthetic. Beyond the obvious addition of plants and flowers, consider creatively displaying rocks or shells collected from travels. Fill apothecary jars with sand from different beaches to add balance and harmony to a room. Or, mount pieces of unique tree branches on a wall as an artistic focal point. With nature, the possibilities are truly limitless. For more information on home design trends, inspiration and surfaces, visit wilsonart.com/ athome. MAY 2021

Distinctive Properties, Premiere Napa Valley Real Estate: May 2021

Articles inside

Spring project inspiration: A bidet leaves you and the bath clean and refreshed

Perfecting your imperfect pantry: Tips to achieve inner calm through an organized space

Burt Polson’s Real Estate in the Napa Valley It’s not only about the rent: part one

Light switches and wallplates need cleaning too: 4 tips to try

The cycle of nature: Oak gall ecosystem includes tales from the crypt

North Bay real estate trends for April 2021

Chris Craiker, Architex Angle: How 2021 remodeling will swap new home construction

Above the fog: Conditions on Howell Mountain make for intense, collectable wines