Do I have to be concerned with building codes and permits?

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Depending on how your contract is written with the home improvement professional, either you or the contractor will be responsible for securing city or county  approval to perform most remodeling jobs. Building codes set minimum public-safety standards for such things as building design and construction. Codes vary from one county and city to the next,… Read More

Tri-Valley Home Sales & Market Update

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Opportunities in the Tri-Valley housing market continue to grow. If you're a seller in the Tri-Valley, the housing market shows signs of transitioning from a balanced market to a sellers' market, at least for now. This means that home owners should start to see prices stabilize further and hopefully begin to grow, presenting more favorable… Read More

How to Choose the Right Painter

Painting Supplies

While some homeowners are quite comfortable handling interior paint jobs on their own, a professional painter is usually enlisted for painting the home’s exterior. Since painting your home is critical to your home’s appearance and value, finding the best possible painter is essential. Here are some tips for making the right choice:  Don’t agree to… Read More

Why Being Present at a Showing Can Hamper Your Home Sale

home seller speaks in megaphone

By special guest Keith Loria If your home is on the market, you know just how important it is to keep it clean and tidy in case your agent calls with a last-minute showing. While piling in the car each time a showing rolls around can feel like a chore, real estate professionals across the… Read More

What truly is a burden?

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Burden is defined as a heavy load; that which is borne with difficulty; obligation. As we age in life, we each look at different scenarios in our own lives as being burdensome or not. Many times we select a lifestyle that we feel is not causing hardship or burden on our families or friends, but… Read More

Free Community Film Screening, Consider the Conversation

mother and daughter

I was speaking with Carolyn Siegfried from Hope Hospice who told me about this wonderful program that Hope Hospice is hosting at the Vine Cinema on April 16th.  It is definitely worth checking out for you and your loved ones.  It is free, all you need to do is register as seating is limited. Consider… Read More

Thank you – Chevron Gas Card Winners

Chevron Gift Card

A Big Thank You to all those who entered our drawing this past month for two $50 Chevron Gas Cards. Our winners for the month were Sheree Neoh of Pleasanton and Alaine Nadeau of Dublin. Congratulations! We truly appreciate the continuous referrals and by the trust you place in us. Related Posts That Might Interest… Read More

Once I choose a contractor, what items should be covered in the contract?

Contractors

According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, a well-written contract should contain the following information: The contractor’s name, address, telephone and license number, if applicable; Details about what will and will not be done; A detailed list of materials for the project, including model, brand name and color. The approximate start date and… Read More

Short Sales – Top 10 Myths Debunked

Underwater Short Sale Words on Calculator

As we continue to help underwater homeowners in our community avoid foreclosure, we encounter all sorts of misinformation. If you are considering a short sale, don’t make the mistake of believing these myths: Myth #1: The homeowner must fall behind on mortgage payments in order to qualify for a short sale.   Debunked:  Years ago this may… Read More

Contractors – How to identify one who is less than reputable?

Contractors

There seem to be no shortage of contractors; and there are certainly many great contractors, but how do you identify one who is less than reputable? They often give themselves away. The telltale signs: Pressure is used to get you to sign a contract; Verifying the contractor’s name, address, phone number and credentials is impossible;… Read More