Vol. 280 – Shouting from the Rooftops!

What’s New?

“I want your wife writing for my son, Cole,” Stuart told my husband.  “I always know what’s happening in Tristan’s world.” (Guilty, as charged).

Aside from the fact that A) I am an incredibly proud mother, B) the Piedmont High School team is having an amazing post season having just qualified for the North Coast Sectional FINALS (!), and
C) baseball, as a general rule, provides great analogies for life, it’s been my experience that the more accessible the stories, the more you relate, and the more likely you are to actually read the pieces I write.

And yes, my family has learned to live with the exposure . . .

The parallel with respect to cheering at a ball game or successfully marketing a home is that they both benefit from shouting from the roof tops, but without aggressive marketing by way of enticing descriptions, excellent photography, well-attended Broker Tours, and a strong Internet presence, it’s far too easy for your home to get lost in the crowd (and what are you paying your agent for, if not to create real BUZZ ?).  My job IS to sing your home’s praises, and at the risk of tooting my own horn, I’ve honed this skill to a fine art.

This isn’t always as easy as it sounds (not all homes are created equal) nor do they all attract the same level of attention.  Some homes are more emotionally appealing; others have benefited from artful renovations and creative landscaping; while others, have commanding views or highly coveted locations, making them much easier to sell.

Even so, there is an inevitable “cooling off” that ultimately takes place with respect to both timing and pricing as spring gives way to summer, and vacations take priority over house hunting.  AND as more inventory becomes available, we are quickly reaching what my Broker, John Karnay, astutely refers to as “cruising altitude.”

Plainly speaking, there’s only so much appreciation the market can accommodate, thus the line on the graph, doesn’t move steadily upward, but rather, it levels out, corrects, and moves up again.  So while the Bay Area is experiencing the most dynamic marketplace it has seen in many years (and the largest single jump year-over-year according to national reports) many of the unbelievable results have been cleverly engineered through aggressive pricing, buoyed by lack of good inventory.

That’s the piece both Sellers and their agents need to keep their eyes on – available inventory.  But what often happens as prices steadily climb, is the false assumption that listing prices should steadily climb as well. In other words, should the “floor” be raised substantially in order to better reflect market results?

Not necessarily.  In many cases, the surprisingly high selling price of a specific property came about because the house was intentionally and strategically priced well below “market” value.

Do I believe unrealistic pricing is misleading? Yes. Is it frustrating for Buyers who have to realign their expectations in order to compete? Yes.  Has the list price essentially become the “opening bid?” Yes ($1.7 is the new 1.3). Do experienced agents prefer this pricing? It depends on ALL of the moving parts.  Is this strategy benefiting Sellers in a meaningful way? Yes!

Which isn’t to say that “realistically” pricing your home doesn’t make sense as it did on a recent sale of mine where the Sellers were unwilling to roll the dice and part with their home for less (purposely underpricing isn’t without inherent risks). But if you are content with one or two qualified offers, than by all means, consider pricing your home “realistically.”

However, let’s concede that nearly EVERYONE covets the perceived “deal,” even when it doesn’t ultimately play out that way.  And under no circumstances, should you ever price your home on the high side – even in today’s super charged world.  Chasing the market, as opposed to setting it, rarely ever plays out in your favor.

Finally, “strategic pricing” works in this day and age, BECAUSE Buyers  have renewed interest in owning real estate, the cost of borrowing is at an all-time low, there is a tremendous amount of equity at play, and there is too little inventory to meet demand.  Obviously, this strategy wouldn’t have worked in 2008 when the markets had all tumbled and Buyers were running scared.  (You have to correctly assess – and play – the market you are in.) Either way, buying a home any market, especially in a very aggressive one, requires great faith in the future.

Hey, I’m just the messenger and I am here to provide my experience, (strength, and hope) but ultimately, you will decide which path best serves you.  In the meantime, I WILL keep heralding your beautiful home and making sure the market finds its way to your doorstep – post haste.  And yes, Stuart, I will keep telling stories and doing my best to grab your attention. (I’m so pleased to count you among my growing readership.)

Would you expect less?  Now, how can I help you?

What’s Coming?

5955 Rincon Drive, Montclair

Look for my newest listing to debut this coming Thursday, June 6, at 5595 Rincon Drive in Montclair.  This hip and sophisticated 4bdrm/2bth Mid-Century oasis, features an inviting open floorplan, floor to ceiling windows, sleek designer decks with Bay views, sunny & spacious eat-in kitchen, professionally landscaped gardens, and a serene wooded setting. Close to Montclair Village, the Sunday Farmer’s Market and easy commuter access.  List price: $787,000.  Open Thursday for Broker’s Tour, 10am-1pm & Sunday, June 9, 2-4:30pm. (photos up next week)

72 Huntleigh Drive, Piedmont

Anian Tunney’s newest listing is a spacious home at 72 Huntleigh Drive in Piedmont near Hampton Field and features 7bdrms/4+bths and a BIG family room off the kitchen.   List price: $ 1,895,000.. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. www.grubbco.com

(These are just a few highlighted properties for you to consider.  For a complete Sunday Open House Guide, please contact me and I’ll be happy to send you an Ad Review each week.)

What’s Happening?

Properties are still moving into contract very quickly.  On average, good listings are selling in just 12-14 days, which means you need to make a swift decision and be ready to close FAST.  (Please speak with a qualified mortgage lender prior to falling in love . . .)

With news that interest rates have crept up, placing jumbo loans at, or above, 4% (still CHEAP money relatively speaking) it’s time to get serious.  (Time truly is money.) Increased interest rates translate into a direct loss of purchasing power. (Thank you Nina Jones, of Wells Fargo, for the heads up!)

The Piedmont Plug!

One More to Go!

Fellow blogger, Laura Polchop of Mulberry’s Market, said it so well that I’m stealing her words practically verbatim (with her permission of course.)  Thank you Laura, I owe you one.

This year’s PHS varsity baseball team has all the elements of a riveting drama: come-from-behind victories, Salutatorian pitchers, extra-inning playoff games, Athlete-of-the-Week designated hitters, and very hoarse parents!

Please join us tonight to witness this Cinderella story live, and to root for the home team.  Just head over to St. Mary’s College in Moraga at 5:00pm for the final NCS Championship (North Coast Sectionals)  game against #1 seed St. Mary’s High School.

It promises to be another tough game, but our guys have the right stuff to come out on top.  Good luck Highlanders (and don’t forget your purple & white)!

Building Community, One Family at a Time . . .

Vol. 278 – Oh No, a Flat Tire.

 What’s New?

“How was the anniversary weekend?” Ed sweetly asked me.  “Was it all that you expected?”

Umm, yes, and no . . .

After watching our son’s baseball game at Witter Field, my husband and I hit the highway on a warm Friday evening and made it down to the Carmel Valley Ranch in good time.  Cliff had been asked to speak at a professional seminar of appellate lawyers and I was tagging along for a rare weekend off, with intentions of strolling Ocean Avenue and the beach, stopping at the nurseries in the valley, and meeting back up with Cliff for lunch and tennis; the perfect day.

We’d elected to drive down in his mid-life crisis convertible (but who’s judging?) to take advantage of the weather and the fact that we would be childless for the weekend, eliminating the need for my much roomier wagon. Truth-be-told, I’ve never much liked that car, but Cliff does and indeed, it was a gorgeous “top-down” kind of evening for which convertibles were made.

On Saturday, we woke early, sunshine streaming into our room, and as Cliff finished his early morning gig, he tossed me the keys and I headed off to Macy’s for a quick errand, while he stayed behind to attend another session.  When I emerged an hour later, I discovered a nail in the wheel and a very, very FLAT tire. What? No worries, a call to AAA would set things right.

Three hours later I was still wrestling with the unexpected detour, having made it form the parking lot to a nearby gas station where I was told that the wheel was too badly damaged to be repaired. (Evidentially, the car doesn’t like me either.)

Sigh, the best laid plans . . .

In the world of Real Estate, good planning constitutes the bulk of any agent’s duties. Personally,  I start with a calendar outlining inspections, marketing deadlines, open houses, Broker’s Tours, Sunday Opens, advertisements, cleaning, window washing, gardening, etc., etc., etc., and build from there.

Nonetheless, even with good intentions, a carefully crafted marketing schedule and day-by-day planning, there’s rarely a home that doesn’t surprise along the way; a conclusion that often comes to the surface as inspections get under way.

“We fixed that.” clients will adamantly state as they read the recommended reports that frankly, leave the Seller often feeling very vulnerable and exposed.  Indeed, you may have fixed the problem, but perhaps the repairs only mitigated the issue, instead of eliminating it entirely.  (Note to Sellers, please don’t hire your “relative” unless he/she is licensed.)

It’s important to understand that all Inspectors must take a fairly neutral stance when writing reports - as they should.  Therefore, if they see something suspect, they WILL call it out. So knowing that, why exactly, would one invite criticism to the party when the goal is to show the house in its best light? (Good question, I’m glad you asked.)

I’ve often referred to this as “controlling” the information, when in fact, we don’t “control” the findings, as much as we provide them. In fact, we should welcome them.  Any “control” that follows, comes in the form of either correcting the issue prior to marketing, OR fully disclosing any defects so that the Buyer knowingly and willingly assumes the responsibility. To that end, we want to fully inform prospective Buyers as to the condition of the house so that they don’t “discover” the information on their own and then hold the Seller accountable by way of a MAJOR price reduction once in escrow! Make sense? I hope so. (Truly, I’m on your side.)

Although many of us like the idea of surprises, the truth is, we are really better served with good preparation.  Thus, I’ll encourage you to inspect, disclose, and inform so that all parties have a good understanding of the condition of the home.  NO ONE, absolutely no one, like surprises once they get into contract. Thus, my best guidance after years in the business, is to avoid surprises and then prepare to roll with the punches. As carefully as we try and construct the outcome, none of us has that much control over the future.

As it turns out, I didn’t much like being surprised either, and I suppose it’s the last time Cliff will ever let me drive his Jaguar (which was kind of fun if I’m being totally truthful).  However, if one has to suffer a flat tire, the Carmel Valley is a very pretty place to be stranded. In fact, I was hoping we’d have to stay another night.  No such luck, I’ve got too much work to do.  (I think I’m owed another weekend.)

Back to planning . . .

What’s Coming?

18 Sandringham Road

18 Sandringham Road in Piedmont will be open both Saturday and Sunday this weekend.  Designed by William Strickland (c.1940) and lovingly maintained, this elegant and spacious 4bdrm/4bth Traditional features three en-suite bedrooms upstairs including a beautiful master suite, gracious formal living and dining rooms, and gourmet kitchen with adjacent family room. French doors throughout open to a romantic, lush courtyard designed for elegant indoor/outdoor entertaining, while a basement below provides tons of storage and a work room. Open Saturday and Sunday 2-4:30pm.  List price: $2,123,000. www.18Sandringham.com

339 Sea View Avenue

Don’t miss Anian Tunney’s spectacular new listing 339 Sea View Avenue in Piedmont (circa 1922).  This jaw-dropping home has been thoroughly restored by its present owners and has design pedigree like no other in town.  Featuring 4+bdrms/2.5 bths, elegant formal rooms, a stunning kitchen/family room, new landscaping and an outdoor garden with fireplace that beckons you to come and relax, this enchanting Colonial home is an entertainer’s dream! Shown by appointment only. List price: $3,495,000.  www.grubbco.com

61 King Avenue

While we’re on the subject of truly special homes, Karen Starr has just listed an elegant Monterey Colonial at 61 King Avenue, designed by Clarence Tantau (c. 1943) and located on one of Piedmont’s most coveted streets and just steps to Crocker Park, this tastefully remodeled 4+bdrm/4+bth Monterey Colonial features a top-of-the-line-kitchen w/stylish Spanish marble countertops, perfectly proportioned formal living and dining rooms, cozy den with half bath, wood-paneled library with fireplace and hidden wet bar, and magical courtyard. French door throughout open out to private, lushly landscaped gardens that were originally designed by Thomas Church, providing the perfect setting for intimate or large gatherings. List Price: $4,250,000.  Shown by Appointment Only! www.61King.com .

81 Wildwood Gardens

Anian Tunney’s newest listing at 81 Wildwood Gardens in Piedmont finally arrives this week.  This unique home, designed by Albert Farr, in a coveted enclave featuring tree-lined streets, elegant homes and private, serene setting, is the perfect backdrop for this romantic 3++bdrm/4bth retreat, in need of some TLC.  List price: $1,450,000.
Open  Sunday, 2-4:30pm.  Bring your tape measures and create your dream home.  www.grubbco.com

22 Woodside Court

Tami Bobb (The GRUBB Co’s newest member) has just listed a spacious Craftsman style home located in the desirable Woodside Glen neighborhood; an enclave of custom designed homes custom built in 2006.  Featuring 4+bdrms/2.5bths, a desirable open floor plan , expansive yard w/deck, and easy access to freeways, transportation and local amenities including the Westminster Theatre and very trendy restaurants this unique community is also adjacent to miles of open space and hiking trails.  List Price: $929,000.  Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm.  www.grubbco.com

What’s New?

 (These are just a few highlighted properties for you to consider.  For a complete Sunday Open House Guide, please contact me and I’ll be happy to send you an Ad Review each week.)      
 
Building Community One Family at a Time . . .

Vol. 276 – Happy Anniversary, Honey.

What’s New?

On Monday, Cliff and I celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary. (Happy Anniversary, Honey) That’s about half as long as my parents have been married, but certainly enough years to have to have set down roots, to have established a family (the boys are practically grown now) and to have built an incredibly rewarding life together.

Anyone who’s walked down the aisle or stood in front of a Justice of the Peace, can tell you that it’s not always easy. Marriage is a journey of ups and downs, rewards and challenges, and unexpected turns; it’s promises kept and forgotten, commitment and duty, and a great deal of acceptance along the way (okay, I’m still working on that part). Above all else, a successful marriage involves a great deal of love, respect, and compromise.

Truth be told, most of us marry one another on “potential.” We don’t really have a clue what’s in store for us in the long haul, but we take the plunge anyway with faith and perseverance, secure in the belief that love and laughter will pull us through (note to my boys, marry someone who makes you laugh and whom you make laugh, in turn – it does!) Add children to the mix, and it’s a whole NEW opportunity for growth . . . Still, on balance, it’s a journey well-worth taking. I guess it would be fair to say: I’ve been“lucky in love.”

Nevertheless, “luck” has less to do with love, than do faith and perseverance. The same can be said with respect to Real Estate as well. First and foremost, you have to believe in the marketplace and you have to have faith in the security of your investment; faith in the concept of future appreciation, AND then you persevere . . .

Successful Buyers believe in the “potential,” whether in the “fixer,” or in the “turn-key” opportunity, whether in an UP or DOWN marketplace, and whether in a secure or a volatile economy. They also, believe in the dream, which is why real Buyers are often willing to battle time and again before securing the perfect property. (Well . . . almost perfect.)

As of late, there have been a fair number of homes sold on “potential” and in most cases, they have gone in incredibly competitive situations, which means the “lucky” Buyers weren’t just lucky, they were prepared AND to my point, they had also persevered.

I’ve spoken to preparation and perseverance many times before and it has never been more important than it is in today’s highly charged, incredibly challenging marketplace. Speak with a local lender, get a pre-approval letter qualifying your credit-worthiness, and be prepared to go to war. (There’s no point in writing offers that don’t stand a chance.)

Meet with a local Realtor, tour the area, identify the communities that you desire, become familiar with the inventory, track the sales prices, and then commit fully to the process.

If you need to sell first in order to purchase, start that process right away: prepare your home for sale, investigate, inspect, and disclose (a real act of commitment) and then make your next move.

BTW – while the majority of capable owners can handle many of these steps on their own, aligning yourself with an agent UPFRONT gives him/her the legal capacity to aggressively step in and take on much of the stress buying or selling a home entails. In other words, put an agent to work! (We’re more than happy to earn our fee and your trust along the way.)

Hey, I’m here to help you set down roots, meet your goals and take the next step. After many years of practice, I’ve gotten very good at supporting dreams (that’s a mother’s job). It’s also your Realtor’s. Please give me a call.

What’s Coming?

109 Manor Drive
Elizabeth Dickson has just listed a terrific home at 109 Manor Drive in Piedmont. This sunny Traditional is the classic two-story home which features 4bdrms/2+bths, coveted floor plan, spacious rooms, and a great location on a level street where kids ride bikes and roller skate (so do the adults). Close to Dracena Park and Piedmont Avenue shops, restaurants and the theater, this wonderful home reminds me of the homes I grew up in. Open Sunday, 2-4:30om. List price: $1,325,000. www.grubbco.com

18 Sandringham Road

Look for my newest listing to debut NEXT week at 18 Sandringham Road in Piedmont. Designed by William Strickland (c.1940) and lovingly maintained, this sophisticated and spacious 4bdrm/4bth Traditional features a 3 en-suite bedrooms upstairs including a beautiful master suite, gracious formal living and dining rooms, and gourmet kitchen with adjacent family room. French doors throughout open to a romantic, lush courtyard, designed for elegant indoor/outdoor entertaining and a basement below provides tons of storage and a work room. Open Sunday, May 12, 2-4:30pm. List price: $2,123,000 (Photos up next week)

608 Boulevard Way

Dana Cohen brings an elegant 3+bdrm/3bth Tudor Revival to the market at 608 Boulevard Way in Piedmont. This updated residence includes an eat-in kitchen with Dacor gas cooktop and separate pantry, private master suite, office, and spacious family room that opens level-out to the rear patio and expansive lawn areas. Open Sunday, 2-4:30 pm. List price: $1,298,000. www.608Boulevard.com

317 Pala Avenue

317 Pala Avenue: Classic, yet beautifully updated and with Golden Gate and Bay views, Matt Heafey’s newest 3bdrm/3.5bth listing at 317 Pala Avenue in the heart of Piedmont, is a sunny Craftsman that features an inviting front porch, formal living and dining rooms, spacious master suite, large deck with wrap-around bench, bonus rooms on the lower level, a gardener’s paradise with mature roses & lush landscaping, lovely natural light & period details throughout, and a coveted central location close to award winning schools. What’s not to love? (Nothing.) Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. List price: $1,849,000. www.317Pala.com

1098 Amito

Jill Carrigan has just listed 1098 Amito Drive in the Claremont Hills. This Plantation-style home with a contemporary flair, offers 4bdrms/3+bths, and spectacular Bridge, Bay, & Canyon views, as well as the City beyond. With seamless indoor/outdoor living, sunny open floor plan, custom kitchen that opens out to an expansive deck, magical rear garden, front porch w/expansive lawn, spacious master suite w/fireplace, and walls of windows that frame amazing vistas in every direction, this home is sun-filled by day and offers sunset views of the City by night. That’s true romance. Open, Sunday, 2-4:30pm. List Price: $1,175,000

(These are just a few highlighted properties for you to consider. For a complete Sunday Open House Guide, please contact me and I’ll be happy to send you an Ad Review each week.)

What’s Pending?

Speaking of potential, the magnificent home at 445 Mountain Avenue in Piedmont had it in spades and is now firmly in contract. (No, I wasn’t the fortunate agent to secure this sale, but The GRUBB Co. did in fact represent both the Buyer and the Seller in this transaction. List price: $4,200,000.)

How can we help you?

The Piedmont Plug!

PAINTS Annual Bird House Gala & Auction is held in a spectacular private garden each year, and provides funding for the arts programs in Piedmont’s schools. Enjoy wine and hors d’ourves, live music, and rowdy performances by the winning Piedmont High School Bird Callers (look for them on David Letterman as well) and let’s not forget to mention those fantastic, creative bird houses that will be available to the highest bidder (which has yet to be me, but I’ll keep trying).

Bird House Gala & Auction
Friday, May 17, 2013
5:00 – 7:00pm

For more information, go to: piedmontpaints.org or call Betsy Lalli at 510-325-1405. Tickets are $80 in advance or $90 at the door. PAINTS supports art education in Piedmont schools.

Building Community, One Family at a Time . . .

Vol. 274 – Stop Digging Holes!

What’s New?

My dog and I are at an impasse. I want him to quietly lie in the garden and Buck wants to dig holes. I respond by planting more shrubs in the shady areas he loves and he thwarts me by finding another spot in which to dig.

I can’t say I appreciate being “out-foxed” by a dog. In fact, I find it rather frustrating, but he’s a dog, and dogs DIG. Unfortunately, I don’t think this is a battle I am likely to win, given that I’m at work all day while he’s got free run of the yard, but I’m not entirely willing to surrender either. Thus, he digs, and I plant – each of us trying to “out-fox” the other.

The truth is, no one likes being out-foxed in any situation and it’s especially difficult in today’s marketplace where Buyers are rarely alone at the table and are often compelled to spend quite a bit more than they had anticipated. If you’re not lucky enough to be Midas, it can be rather frustrating to watch home after home go to more aggressive (or richer) Buyers who can waive their inspection and appraisal conditions and close in mere days, as opposed to several weeks. Shucks!

“This whole process seems rather obscure,” one Buyer recently confided. “Why can’t I know what the other offers are so that I could decide whether or not I want to pay more?”

Gee, wouldn’t that be nice for us all?

Buyers would be able to quickly decipher whether or not they could realistically compete and their Realtors could save a tremendous amount of time NOT writing offers that probably don’t stand a chance under current circumstances (hmmm. . . it may be worth considering).

Of course, I’m not sure that Sellers who have now realized tremendous gains and are in possession of a unique commodity, would benefit from open bids as much as they do from a closed process – nor necessarily, would Buyers . . .

Typically, when multiple offers come into play, there is often a clear winner; one that is usually well-ahead of the rest of the pack. It’s not that the winning Buyer has “overpaid” for the house; it’s that savvy Buyers understand the nature of the contest and are willing to set themselves apart in order to avoid a “multiple counter” response; one in which the decision is likely to become a popularity contest (at which point, they’ll have NO control over the outcome). In short, these educated Buyers want the house and are willing to set the market value to get it.

Conversely, when only one offer is up for consideration, the Buyer usually has the advantage of bidding below the list price (once again, Buyers are setting the market value). And while that doesn’t necessarily describe our current marketplace here in the Bay Area, it’s important to remember that markets are cyclical and we’ve just come off of several tough years where Buyers have had the upper hand. Even with the dramatic shift, there are still many communities outside of the Bay Area where homes can still be purchased for less than asking (what a concept).

Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on how you see it) this is the Bay Area, and given that you WILL in all likelihood, be bidding against several other Buyers on almost every home this Spring, it helps to have a Realtor who understands the nuances of the game, knows the other players in the mix, is well-respected by his/her peers, and clearly understands the standard practices in each specific marketplace. (Take my word for it, terms vary greatly from region to region.) Without these advantages, you may find yourself “out-foxed” and at a real disadvantage.

Recently, I have spoken with several Buyers who have struggled with saying good-bye to their out-of-area agent, in order to work locally. And while I appreciate the strong bond created in the search for a new home, your loyalty will probably come at a heavy cost to you and perhaps, in the form of missed opportunity. (Just because I vacation in Tahoe, doesn’t mean I know the marketplace there.)

By way of illustration, a few months back, I received a pre-emptive offer on a listing here in town, e-mailed to my inbox from an out-of-area agent who probably thought they had “out-foxed “ the rest of the buying public by declaring early. (They hadn’t.) Nearly everything with the offer was wrong, from the price, to transfer taxes, to their demands. At which point, their offer was politely declined and when a slightly modified offer was resubmitted come the offer date, it was declined once more – a repeat rejection. (Ouch, that really hurts.) The truth is, their offer missed the mark on every single level – and the worse part of this story is that their agent probably didn’t even know what mistakes he had made.

So if you have changed your geography by more than a few miles (I’m talking different cities, not different neighborhoods) it’s probably time to reconsider your representation. If you are still feeling torn, ask your agent to make the referral, which gives him/her an opportunity to recoup a little of their time and some of the lost commission. Granted, it won’t be the same pay-out as a full sale’s commission, but you’re much more likely to actually achieve the intended goal of homeownership, and that should be your Agent’s goal for you as well. Otherwise, we’re all just digging holes.

So plant your garden. . . our Spring Market is in full bloom and it is thriving!

What’s Coming?

It’s the week of Spectacular homes!

Elizabeth Dickson has brought a Grand Dame to market this week at 445 Mountain Avenue in Piedmont. This exceptional and distinguished home (circa 1913) designed by well-known architect, Arthur B. Brown, Jr., features four floors of living space, 6 bedrooms, 4 full & 3 half bathrooms, a grand columned entry hall, spacious formal living & dining rooms, adjacent to a handsome wood- paneled library (each with its own fireplace) three additional sun rooms, full attic and finished basement, and lavish use of architecturally significant moldings and period details throughout. Surrounded by mature blooming gardens and views of lush greenery from every window, this centrally located home also features a lower level that opens to a beautiful swimming pool and sunny level terrace. Show by appointment only! List price: $4,200,000 445Mountain.com

Anian Tunney has just listed 87 Sea View Avenue. On the most prestigous street in Piedmont, this lovely Colonial Traditional features 5bdrms/5+bths, grand foyer, box-beamed ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, elegant yet inviting formal rooms, eat-in kitchen, glamorous swimming pool, and professionally landscaped gardens that create a series of magical outdoor vignettes at every turn. (They don’t make them like this any more.) It’s very special. List price: : $5,990,000. By appointment only! www.grubbco.com

In the market for incredible views? Don’t miss Anian Tunney’s new listing at
676 Blair Avenue in Piedmont. Walk into this dazzling Contemporary and find the SF Bay at your fingertips. Unsurpassed views of the shimmering Bay, the Golden Gate & Bay Bridges. Loads of space including 5 bedrooms, an office, two-car attached garage & a large rumpus room which opens to the lovely, sunny back garden, complete with a sparkling pool. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. List price: $1.950,000. www.grubbco.com

What’s Pending?

Multiple offers continue to be the name of the game and often, with surprising results. Both 221 El Cerrito Avenue (List price: $1,595,000) and 121 Ricardo Avenue (List price: $950,000) are now pending well above their list price. (Ricardo received more than 20 offers , as did Jerome last week!)

These are tough waters to navigate and “fixer opportunities” seem to be the toughest of all. Work locally and work with an expert. (We’re here to help and we know our business.)

Last night, I put my 1691 Mountain Boulevard listing into contract – also with multiple offers.

How can I help you?

The Piedmont Plug!

Spring brings a slew of fun and fabulous fundraisers. First up: CSL’s 25th annual Heart of the Home Tour: April 26 & 27, 10am-4:00pm. Tour five beautiful homes in Piedmont and Crocker Highlands and then stop by the Piedmont Community Center for lunch and some some timely shopping at the CSL Boutique. (Don’t forget Mother’s Day is right around the corner.)

Have a conflict with your kids? No worries, for the first time, CSL has arranged a special optional all-day program to give busy parents an opportunity to attend. The “Wild West Camp” on Saturday is $100 per child and is paid directly to Piedmont Recreation. Drop your kids for some fun with Tree Frog-Treks, “Mr. Science,” so that everyone gets a chance to play. (The Wild West Camp is not a fundraiser for Children’s Support League, but a service for guests on tour.)

Building Community, One Family at a Time . . .

Vol. 272 – “Can I help You?”

What’s New?

“Can I help you?” the pretty, young salesgirl politely asked, clearly recognizing the confusion in my eyes. (I’m sure I’m not the first.)

“Yes!” I gushed, handing off the few shirts I had already selected, grateful for the rescue. “I desperately need some new clothes for work.”

Here’s the thing, take me to the Alameda Flea Market with literally row-upon-row of antique vendors as far as the eye can see, and I haven’t a problem quickly identifying what I want or negotiating for it, BUT if I wander into any large department store, I’m utterly lost; as if I haven’t a clue (I don’t).

With all due respect to April, I’m not fooling, I really have NO ability to filter through the sea of clothes as most of my fashionable peers can easily do (or any sixteen-year-old girl for that matter). Accessories? Uh . . . what are those? I wear a pair of earrings until I lose one and then I might purchase another (or not). Purses? I own just two.

“You’re not really wearing those baggy jeans?” my girlfriend, Teresa, has critically scoffed as I’ve arrived for an outing. (Not anymore, I’m not.) Teresa is the mother of three daughters – she always looks stylish.

Maybe it’s the boy thing. Frankly, neither Tris nor Case could care less about what either one of them is wearing, let alone me, but after twenty-plus years, I’m clearly out of practice and waaay out of my element. Maybe it’s the fact that I spend more time at the ball field than at the shopping mall. OR, maybe there’s a chromosome missing on my DNA?!?

Whatever it is, I am the first to admit that when it comes to fashion, I don’t know where to begin.

Thankfully, I don’t have to.

“I’m a personal shopper,” Sabrina explained as she escorted me into a private changing room. “If you ever need me, here’s my card.” (Need you? Can I adopt you?) “I’m just going to select some options for you . . . just wait here, I’ll be right back.” (Relief.)

One hour later and I walked out of Macy’s with three new shirts, a blazer, two skirts, a pair of pants, and a sporty little pair of Espadrilles – and they all mix and match. I’m set for the next several months. (Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!)

Relying on others with more experience, doesn’t just make common sense (and cents) it’s often times, the wisest course of action, and the most expedient as well – especially when it come to Real Estate. Why reinvent the wheel when others more practiced, can better steer the way?

I can’t count the number of times, when potential Sellers bring me in after they have painted or made repairs, when they’d be much better served, inviting me in before (don’t mind the mess, I’ve seen much worse.) The truth is, there’s a very different aesthetic for marketing your home for photos online, than for decorating it to meet your own personal taste and style.

AND before you spend those hard-earned dollars that I will, in all probability, ask you to respend, PLEASE CALL ME. (Think Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn Catalogue and you’re on the right track.) And yes, it’s very likely, the design will embrace a very neutral palette – and for good reason. We want potential Buyers to place themselves in your home, not get sidetracked by the photos of your darling children and their colorful artwork on the walls.

So for those of you contemplating selling your home in the next few years – or in the next few months – may I offer a few suggestions as someone who’s got a great deal more experience than the average home seller typically does?

If a move is in your future, here’s my Top Ten ‘To Do’ List:” (no charge)

1. Define your goals, timeline, and expectations.
2. Gather any information pertinent to the sale of your home, including building permits, receipts, plans, etc. and create a list of all home improvements.
3. Purge your home, garage, and attic of any unwanted items and clean out and straighten closets and drawers.
4. Professionally inspect your home for defects to the roof, chimney, foundation, electrical & plumbing systems, structure, and sewer lateral. (Better that you control this information than discover it in escrow!)
5. If possible, consider repairing any identified defects or deferred maintenance the inspections uncover, prior to marketing.
6. Install Smoke Detectors and CO2 Detectors as required by law.
7. Paint and professionally stage your home. Dollar for dollar, staging brings the best return on investment.
8. Power wash the exterior, clear gutters of debris and professionally wash windows inside and out. Freshen pots, replant beds, rake, mow, and tidy up the garden and all surrounding areas on the property.
9. Most importantly, hire a local REALTOR (not an out-of-area agent) you trust and one whom has a proven track record in your neighborhood to help guide you through the preparation and the sale of your home. We’re experts in our field, so why not go with what works?
10. No one should ever feel lost or overwhelmed when bringing their home to market.

Can I help you?

What’s Coming?

Sunny, bright and beautiful – please join me this Sunday at my newest listing at 1691 Mountain Boulevard in the heart of Montclair. Just steps to the library, Montclair Elementary, and a few short blocks to the Village, this fantastic Traditional home features 4+bdrms/3bths, formal living and dining rooms, inviting family room and spacious, soccer-worthy backyard with stone patio and hot tub; perfect for entertaining! It’s much bigger than it looks from the street. Come on inside (trust me, you don’t want to miss it). Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. List price: $1,050,000. www.1691Mountain.com

Linda McClain has just listed a lovely Traditional at 6026 Pinewood in Montclair. Designed by Richard Janzen (circa 1996), this beautiful home features an ideal floor plan with 4bdrms/2bths up, including a very private master suite, formal living and dining rooms, office w/built-ins, and chef’s kitchen leading out to a wonderful grassy garden. Extremely functional and stylish, this house has it all! List price: $1,250,000. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. www.grubbco.com




Bebe Mcrae has listed 299 Panoramic Way in Berkeley. Built in the 1920′s, surrounded by expansive gardens, and capturing Bay views in an idyllic setting with sensitive upgrades throughout, this 3bdrm/3bth home also offers a separate office/studio with half bath. List price: $1,195,000. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. www.grubbco.com






Mindy Scott has just listed a wonderful Brown-Shingle Traditional in the heart of Piedmont at 221 El Cerrito Avenue. (Be still my heart.) On the market for the first time in 50 years, this lovely classic home features 4+bdrms/3+bths, formal living and dining rooms, parlor, many plus spaces and an inviting front porch in a coveted central Piedmont location. What’s not to love? (Nothing.) List price: $1,595,000. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. www.grubbco.com

Anian Tunney has just listed a terrific “fixer” opportunity at 121 Ricardo Avenue in Piedmont. On a great family-friendly street and close to Piedmont Avenue, shops and restaurants, this charming 3bdrms/2bth Traditional awaits your vision. List Price: $950,000. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm. www.grubbco.com

What’s Pending?

Only nineteen homes have gone pending in Piedmont since the first of the year, per the MLS. Of course, this doesn’t account for the handful that have traded privately, of which there have been quite a few.

Private, or “off-market” sales are always disturbing to those Buyers who, understandably, feel left out of the hunt, but unfortunately, they’re not all that uncommon – especially as the market becomes more frantic. Working with an area specialist, gives you a much better shot at hearing about these sales, before they go into escrow – not after.

The average price per square foot in Piedmont, currently factors out to $578, but ranges from a low of $493 to a high of $731. The average sales price is $1,608,454, while the average list price is substantially less, at $1,483,886, reaffirming the reality that most homes in Piedmont (as well as many surrounding communities) are trading 20% – 30% above the list price and in some case, 40% over asking. Wowza! (That’s still a value compared to San Francisco.)

That’s tough news to digest if you’re a Buyer, but great for Sellers. If you’ve been on the fence Sellers, it’s time to jump off.

My lovely, all-level listing at 4434 Clarewood in Rockridge went into contract after only one Sunday Open and with eight offers. Suffice it to say, Mr. Seller had a great result and the home is now pending WELL above asking. (List price: $1,098,000).

How can I help you?

The Piedmont Plug!

Spring brings a slew of fun and fabulous fundraisers. First up: CSL’s 25th annual Heart of the Home Tour: April 26 & 27, 10am-4:00pm. Tour five beautiful homes in Piedmont and Crocker Highlands and then stop by the Piedmont Community Center for lunch and some some timely shopping at the CSL Boutique. (Don’t forget Mother’s Day is right around the corner.)

Have a conflict with your kids? No worries, for the first time, CSL has arranged a special optional all-day program to give busy parents an opportunity to attend. The “Wild West Camp” on Saturday is $100 per child and is paid directly to Piedmont Recreation. Drop your kids for some fun with Tree Frog-Treks, “Mr. Science,” so that everyone gets a chance to play. (The Wild West Camp is not a fundraiser for Children’s Support League, but a service for guests on tour.)

Building Community, One Family at a Time . . .