Monthly Home Maintenance - December – Miscellaneous

• Clean your garage and get rid of anything you don’t use.
• Neatly organize all of your tools, garden equipment and appliances. • Wander the house with a screwdriver and tighten screws on
drawers, doors and furniture.
• Make a list of any small repairs that need to be made. If needed,
go to your local hardware store and purchase the necessary items to make your repairs.

Homebuyers: To get the house, get there first

(Money Magazine)

Housing inventory is stiflingly tight in many locations, making it a challenge to find, much less land, your dream home.

The number of available houses in the hottest markets has dropped dramatically over the past year, says the National Association of Realtors: In the Boston area, for one, inventory levels are down 29% vs. 2012. And Denver, Seattle, and San Francisco aren't far behind.

"Some homes are flying off the market in a matter of days," says Paul Bishop, VP of research for NAR.
Shopping in a popular spot? You'll have to go beyond the usual sellers' market tactics, such as getting prequalified for a mortgage. These strategies will help you find homes first, stopping a bidding war before it starts.
Go unlisted
One way to head off the competition is to look for so-called pocket listings, homes that are for sale but don't show up on the multiple listing service, where brokers post available properties.
Owners may choose not to list because they want to keep details about their houses private, or simply because they don't want to deal with staging the home and taking photos, says Zillow contributor and agent Brendon DeSimone, who works in New York and California.
Related: Secret 'pocket listings' return in hot housing markets
To find these homes, you'll need a well-connected broker. "You want someone who has an inside track," says DeSimone. Agents who have experience with pocket listings should be able to tell you about examples of off-the-radar houses they've handled in the past, as well as any they are currently aware of (keep in mind that pocket listings are most common in areas with tight inventory).
A caution: Buyers considering an unlisted property should be on the lookout for defects and check that the price is in line with the area, says San Francisco broker Samuel Cadelinia. Owners sometimes use this low-profile method to avoid calling attention to a problem or to see if they can sell for more money.
Get the real-time scoop
Many would-be buyers depend on automatic search, a regular roundup of listings sent out by the local MLS. But by the time these emails go out to shoppers, included homes may have been online for hours or even days.
Ask your agent about real-time MLS alerts, emails that are sent the moment a new listing goes live. While not yet in all markets, the alerts are available in the San Francisco Bay area, Las Vegas, Columbus, parts of Connecticut, and more.
Related: 10 things to know about buying a home
Agents often have a home for 24 hours or so before entering it into the MLS, so your broker may be able to give you a heads-up on a house he just received. To increase your chances of getting that call, tell him that you'd like to be notified immediately, and be sure he knows exactly what type of house you're after.
See through bad listings
Don't be scared off by a hideous paint job, bad lighting, or unflattering photos. "Sometimes sellers don't listen to agents about getting the house ready for sale," says DeSimone.
In a tight market, he says, it's worth checking out marginal listings to avoid missing a badly packaged gem -- just factor in the price of any project required to bring the home up to snuff.

 

Céline Dion's $28 million island mansion

Set your search criteria a bit higher than your target price; you'll likely catch some overpriced homes that may eventually go for less. How will you know? The number of days on the market is one telltale sign, says Cadelinia.
Related: For sale by owner: Homeowners ditching brokers
For example, if most homes in the area are gone within a month but this one's been on the market for two, the owner may be willing to consider a lower offer. If the listing is new, get a sense of how realistic the cost is by comparing it with the recent sale price of similarly sized houses in the same area.
Spot would-be sellers
Finding a home that's not for sale but might be soon is tricky but not impossible.
One strategy: Ask your agent to search expired listings, says Mark Cenci, a Chillicothe, Ohio, realtor. Owners who tried to sell a couple of years ago may not be up on rising home values (June median home prices were 16% higher than two years prior, says the NAR) and might be swayed by what you're willing to pay.
Rental properties are another prospective target, since landlords may also be out of touch with current prices. Sure, it's a reach, but in this market, says Cenci, "you need to explore every option."

Why You Should Sell Your House Now

Many now realize that it is a great time to buy a home.  It might also be an opportune time to sell your house.  Here are the five reasons we believe now may be a perfect time to put your house on the market.

1. Demand Is High

The most recent Existing Home Sales Reports by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) show a double digit percent increase in sales year-over year; sales have remained above last year’s levels for over 25 months.  There are buyers out there right now and they are serious about purchasing.

2. Supply Is Beginning to Increase

Total housing inventory is again approaching historic norms of a 5 month supply compared with 4.3 months in January.  Many expect inventory to continue to rise as 3.2 million homeowners escaped the shackles of negative equity in the last 12 months and an additional 1.9 million are expected to enter positive equity in the next 12 months.  Selling now while demand is high and before supply increases may garner you your best price.

3. New Construction Is Coming Back

Over the last several years, most homeowners selling their home did not have to compete with a new construction project around the block.  As the market is recovering, more and more builders are jumping back in.  These ‘shiny’ new homes will again become competition as they are an attractive alternative for many purchasers.

4. Interest Rates Will Again Rise

Although Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey shows that interest rates for a 30-year mortgage have softened recently, most experts predict that they will begin to rise later this year.  The Mortgage Bankers Association, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the National Association of Realtors are in unison projecting that rates will be up almost a full percentage point by this time next year.
Whether you are moving up or moving down, your housing expense will be more a year from now if a mortgage is necessary to purchase your next home.

5. It’s Time to Move On with Your Life

Look at the reason you are thinking about selling and decide whether it is worth waiting.  Is the possibility of a few extra dollars more important than being with family; more important than your health; more important than having the freedom to go on with your life the way you think you should?
You already know the answers to the questions we just asked.  You have the power to take back control of your situation by putting the house on the market today.  The time may have come for you and your family to move on and start living the life you desire.  That is what is truly important.

5 Tips for Lightening Your Closet’s Load

It’s a mess, it’s unmanageable, and you need space. You’re going to tackle the whole thing, and you’re not going to let sentimentality weaken your resolve. You've had an epiphany, and you’re ready to clean out your clothes closet!

But as you pull out that first item, it happens: Your ever-so-rational mind starts building an ever-so-rational case for keeping virtually every article of clothing you were just prepared to toss.

We’ve all been there, so don’t despair. Whether you’re fueled by enthusiasm or trembling with trepidation, these can-do tips will start you on your way.

1. Note the excuses. Such as:

• "I really paid a lot for that."
• "I just haven't gotten around to wearing that yet."
• "That just needs altering."
• "I'll fit back into that one of these days."
• "Fashions always come back around."

Sound familiar? We all have things we hold on to. Note the reasons that pop into your head, because once you know your reasons for holding on to those things, you’ll be better able to move forward and make room — literally and figuratively.

Start by getting rid of 10 items (or five — just pick a number that isn’t zero). In one quick sweep, you might be surprised what you can toss without a struggle. If you’re afraid of biting off more than you can chew, be assured that you can accomplish a great deal nibble by nibble, drawer by drawer, row by row.

Monarch Renovations

2. Unburden yourself of the unworn. We’ve all heard that unless it’s a cocktail gown or your wedding dress, you should get rid of it if you haven’t worn it in six months. For many of us, that’s easier said than done. It could even sound downright unreasonable. But there are ways to put this in perspective.

Our memory can be faulty, so try using these nifty tricks to keep track of what you actually wear. Buy pretty new hangers, and each time you wear something, put it on one of those new hangers. You can achieve the same result without investment by turning all your hangers backward. Once you’ve worn something, replace it with the hanger hung forward.

Cabinet Innovations

When it comes to your drawers and shelves, it’s likely that the stuff squashed into the corners and crumpled on the bottom are items you really don’t use. But if you want to be sure, take everything out and place a small, brightly colored sticker (the kind you find at an office supply store) on each clothing label and remove the sticker after you’ve worn the item. You’ll soon see what you really love to wear and what’s just taking up precious real estate. Then shift accordingly.

Also, take a closer look when you trade out your seasonal clothing. If you didn’t wear it last year, chances are good that you’re not going to wear it this year, so don’t hang it up and don’t pack it up — donate it. You know you’ll get more stuff this season, so go ahead and make room for it.

Andrea Gary/Queen of Kerfuffle™

3. Multiply your space by trimming down the multiples. Do you have five white blouses, black skirts or pink bras? Different styles for different outfits — I know, I know! But at least one usually remains unworn or is ill fitting. Toss just one of these multiples and you’ve immediately gifted yourself with 20 percent more space.

4. Dump the damaged goods. Is it pilling, tattered, snagged, threadbare? If it’s sentimental, wash it, fold it and put it in a box. If it isn’t, toss it. Is it in a pile awaiting stain treatment, repairs or alterations? Looking at a pile of stuff you haven’t taken care can create guilt and add to stress. Give yourself one week to treat the stuff, take it to the seamstress or move it out. You’ll be rid of a pile and will enjoy the singular satisfaction of checking something off your to-do list.

California Closets of Indianapolis

5. Unload the unfashionable, unflattering and unhealthy. Certainly, some items are true classics and stand the test of time. However, clothes worn in a job you no longer have or in an environment you no longer frequent (say, outfits from your clubbing days) simply need to go, especially if that job or environment has bad feelings or loss attached to it. Also, don’t keep gifts given by people you don’t actually like (the clothes or the people). If the tags are still on, return them. If not, consign them and use the cash or store credit to find something you love.

All Things Home Organizing™ by Gayle Grace

Here’s a hard truth: The 1980s are long gone. Even if that was the most exciting decade of your life, it’s time to ditch the clothes and get up-to-date. Since we aren’t always able to see ourselves clearly, a second opinion can be an excellent mirror.

If you don’t have a friend to critique your wardrobe with you over a bottle of wine, use this time-tested method: try on an outfit and imagine bumping into an old flame. Would you feel confident and sexy wearing it, or awkward and embarrassed? What you felt good in then may not be flattering now, so embrace who you are today and work with what you’ve got.

Snobz Design

We’re not all fashionistas, nor are we all prepared to completely reset our wardrobes. But the bottom line is that the closet should be a place of inspiration, not stress. So lighten your load and keep only what you love and feel beautiful in — whatever your style may be.

Monthly Home Maintenance - November – Upholstery and Carpeting

• Vacuum all sofas and pillows.
• Spot clean all upholstery and carpeting.
• For extra cleaning, consider hiring a professional service to clean
your upholstery and carpeting.
• Don’t forget to move your household clocks back on November 4
when Daylight Saving Time ends and test your smoke detector and carbon monoxide batteries. 

For a complete list of all 12  months maintenance, please call or email me.

Kelly Clarke
sold@clarketeam.com
650-489-5399

Monthly Home Maintenance - October is Fireplace and Chimney

• If you have a fireplace, make sure you have the chimney checked out by a professional chimney cleaner before starting the first fire.
• Be sure your fireplace tools are in good working order.
• Pull out your nonflammable rug and place it in front of the
fireplace.
• Once you start building fires, clean ashes out regularly but ensure
ashes have completely cooled before discarding. 

For a complete list of all 12  months maintenance, please call or email me.

Kelly Clarke
sold@clarketeam.com
650-489-5399

Trick-or-Treating on Eucalyptus Avenue in San Carlos

The street that’s more known for its annual Christmas extravaganza also puts on an amazing spectacle for Halloween. Much like they do around the holidays, virtually every home on the two blocks of Eucalyptus Avenue is decorated to the nines. These two short blocks have gotten so popular in recent years, that they actually blocked the street off last year,  which made it more like Mardi Gras than it did Halloween. Just missing the beads…

It’s a great place to take the kids — the decorations are incredible, and the neighbors are VERY generous with the candy.   With fire pits blazing in some of the driveways, you’ll very likely run into tons of friends and neighbors there, too.  Just keep a close eye on your trick-or-treater, because with so many kids milling around in costume, it’s amazingly easy to lose track of your kid even when they’re only 10 feet away.

Happy Halloween!

Goblin Walk - on Laurel Street in San Carlos this Saturday, October 26th

San Carlos Parks and Recreation and Chamber of Commerce present Goblin Walk.
• This event is for children up to 7 years of age, and accompanied by a parent/adult
• Wear your Halloween costume
• Trick or treat at Laurel Street businesses displaying the 'Goblin Walk Stop' sign
• Support Downtown Businesses - Shop San Carlos!

Monthly Home Maintenance - October

October is the month to take care of your Fireplace and Chimney.

• If you have a fireplace, make sure you have the chimney checked
out by a professional chimney cleaner before starting the first fire.

• Be sure your fireplace tools are in good working order.

• Pull out your nonflammable rug and place it in front of the
fireplace.

• Once you start building fires, clean ashes out regularly

Hiking Trails in San Carlos - Eaton Park

I love that there are amazing trails within walking distance of my home in San Carlos.  My favorite is Eaton Park.  The Kiwanis has recently adopted the park and put in new trails and trail maps.  There is now a wonderful loop that you can take from the Eaton Avenue entrance.

We have a dog who also loves to walk and Eaton Park allows dogs on leashes on the trail. They even provide baggies at the entrance so that you can conveniently collect any "gifts" your pet may leave on the trail.  If everyone follows the rules - it works out great!

It's a wonderful hike that will take you to the top of the hill to an amazing vista and even over wooden bridges and tree shaded areas.  If you have not tried it yet, I would strongly recommend it.

Happy trails to you!

http://www.cityofsancarlos.org/depts/pr/prksfac/park_information/eaton_park.asp

Kelly Clarke
The Clarke Team
Realtor

Monthly Home Maintenance - September

September is the month to check your seals around the house.

• Check the weather stripping around your windows and doors and
make any necessary repairs in preparation for the winter months.

• Make sure your refrigerator door seal is tight.

• Caulk any drafts in your basement, such as around your dryer vent.

• Make sure your roof is in good condition and not missing any
shingles, tiles or slates.

How to Calculate Payments for a First-Time Home Buyer

Since a home is likely the single largest and most important purchase the first-time home buyer will make, he should seek an affordable monthly payment. Begin with evaluating monthly income and expenses to determine how much he can comfortably afford. He must also consider additional expenses associated with homeownership, such as homeowner's insurance, property taxes and, in some cases, private mortgage insurance.

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/calculate-payments-first-time-home-buyer-2930.html
 

How to Repair Stucco Leaks

by Carson Barrett, Demand Media

Many people find the texture of a stucco wall attractive.

Stucco is a durable, attractive finish used for the exterior walls of homes and other buildings. As with all exterior wall surfaces, the integrity of stucco must be intact in order to prevent leaks. When cracks occur in the stucco and water leaks in, it can reach the sheathing of the house, which can cause rot. You can patch small cracks and holes in the stucco yourself, but if they're larger than 1/2 inch wide or are vertical cracks around windows and doors, call in a professional to examine them, as it can be a sign of problems with your home's foundation.

Patching Cracks in the Stucco

1.

Clean the crack to remove any loose debris with a flathead screwdriver and a toothbrush.

2.

Squeeze caulk into a paper cup and stir some clean sand into the caulk to give it a rougher texture. Use acrylic-latex caulk if the crack is 3/8 inch wide or less, or a stucco-repair caulk if the crack is 1/2 inch wide or less.

3.

Fill the crack with a putty knife and allow it to cure for the time specified on the packaging.

4.

Apply an exterior-grade latex paint over the patch that blends in with the rest of the wall.

Patching Holes in the Stucco

1.

Clean loose stucco from the hole by chipping away at it with a cold chisel and hammer.

2.

Vacuum the dust out of the hole. Examine the wire mesh inside the hole; if it's damaged, staple new mesh over the damaged section.

3.

Mix a small batch of brown stucco for the base coat, following the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the stucco to the hole with a trowel. Allow the stucco to firm up, then scratch the surface with a nail. Allow the stucco to cure for two days. Use enough stucco to reach a depth about 1/4 inch beneath the surface of the wall.

4.

Spray the hole and the stucco that surrounds it to dampen it. Apply another coat of brown stucco to the hole. Smooth the surface of the stucco, and allow it to cure for two days. This layer is 1/8 inch deep.

5.

Spray the hole and the surrounding stucco with water to get it damp. Apply the top coat of stucco over the hole, smoothing the surface so that it's even with the surrounding stucco. Texture the surface of the stucco with the trowel to match the surrounding stucco. Allow the top coat to cure for four days, and paint the patch with an exterior-grade latex paint, if needed.

Short of funds for a down payment and have good credit? Consider an 80/20 Loan.

80/20 loans are not as complicated as people may think. Many lenders will only finance 80% of the home purchase price, which leaves 20% for the borrowers to come up with. While having a down payment is ideal, some borrowers do not have enough of a down payment to cover 20%, and some may not have a down payment at all. In this scenario, a second loan for 20% of the home value can be taken out, as a home equity or piggyback loan. This is the best way to get 100% financing because neither the 80 or the 20 loan will require a down payment, since they are both incomplete loans.

How They Work

The first loan is for 80% of the purchase price. The second loan, for 20% of the purchase price, works as a revolving line of credit for 15 years and then must be paid in full over the course of the last 10 years of the loan term. The first loan prevents the borrowers from having to take out a private mortgage insurance (PMI) policy, which helps them save money. PMI is usually required when any mortgage covers more than 80% of the home value, because it is a risk for the bank. The insurance works to protect the bank, but since the cost is passed on to the borrower, it makes it harder for the borrower to handle.

When a borrower cannot come up with 20% down, an 80/20 loan is usually the best route to go, because it is less expensive than having to carry PMI. The 20% loan will generally carry a higher interest rate than the first trust deed loan, so it is important to carefully manage finances.

Qualifying for an 80/20 Loan

Generally, only those with a good credit standing, a score of at least 700, can qualify for 80/20 loans. Because there is no down payment involved, 100% financing is a very large risk for most lenders, so they will only trust borrowers who have shown they have the ability to pay their debts. In addition to a good credit history, applicants should have a stable employment history, a decent amount of money in savings, a stable history of residency, and a low debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The debt-to-income ratio should be 45% or less if possible. The better the employment, residency and DTI are, the lower the interest rates on the loans will be.

Due to the recent housing industry crisis, these loans are only extended to the most worthy borrowers, and are not offered by all lenders. If you are interested in getting 100% financing through an 80/20 loan, look at your credit report before you begin talking to various lenders to find a program that works for you. Depending on the situation, you may be better off waiting for a few more months to improve your credit and pay down some debt.

Contact me with questions or for a referral to lenders who offer these loans.

Free Shredding and Goodwill Event - September 14th, San Carlos

When: Saturday, September 14th, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Where: North East Dirt Lot at Holly Street & El Camino Real, San Carlos

Bring your personal documents and confidential materials for safe & secure destruction for Free!  Limit 3 boxes (10" x 12" x 15").  Be prepared to show proof of San Carlos residency.

Donations of Clothing, Shoes, Computers, Electronics, Small Appliances and Housewares will be accepted by Goodwill at this event.  Bring the Goodwill Donation Form from the Goodwill web site and it will be signed by Goodwill for tax deduction purposes at the event.

What Would YOU Do to Get That House?

What Would YOU Do to Get That House? [INFOGRAPHIC]

Great Infographic here.

Empty nesters - tips on what to do when the kids (finally) move out!

My husband and I are not quite there, but we are getting closer to being empty nesters.  We have 6 children, three have recently graduated from college, two are still in college and our lone minor is a junior in high school.  Still, it never hurts to start thinking (dreaming) about having the entire home to ourselves! Here is a great article with advise from Danielle Galland that I thought was worth sharing.  Enjoy!

Design Advice on Reconfiguring an Emptying Nest, Part 1

In this sketch, Danielle Galland suggests one way to freshen up a child's former bedroom with a nod to their childhood: pullout sofabed, with a  few pieces of the child's artwork or other ephemera grouped along one wall.

By THE NEW YORK TIMES

Published: August 7, 2013 4 Comments

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This week’s expert, Danielle Galland, an interior designer, is answering readers’ questions about two kinds of living transitions that many baby boomers face: the semi-empty nest, with children leaving for college but returning during breaks, and the empty nest geared toward retirement.

• My Story: The Memory Lady’s Daughter Tries to Fill the Gaps

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  August 10, 2013

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  August 9, 2013

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Danielle Galland, interior designer

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Ms. Galland started her own firm in New York City, Danielle Galland Interior Design Inc., in 2004. Since 2011 she has taught classes in hand drawing and rendering at the New York School of Interior Design. Previously she taught at Parsons the New School for Design. She received her M.A. in the history of the decorative arts from the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum Program.

Here is part 1 of her answers.

Elevators in Houses

Q. We are empty nesters thinking about keeping our two-story 3,400-square-foot house for the duration. High-equity, low-property tax basis, and simple familiarity and comfort is a driver here. The only way it might work is installing an elevator as an elder “fail safe.” The issues, and cost, of installing a residential elevator would be of great interest to read. — Rick, Yorba Linda

A. Dear Rick: the installation of a residential elevator in an existing house is no small bit of renovation or expense. To have the elevator installed usually requires the work of multiple trades, each bringing their own skill sets. They include a licensed architect, who can file any relevant building permits and verify that the structural detailing proposed will meet local building codes. More important, they are there to ensure that the work will not adversely affect the structural integrity of the house. Then you need a general contractor to prepare the space for the elevator. Finally, you need an elevator company, which provides the equipment, installs and maintains it, but also works with the general contractor and architect to make sure they have built the space to the required specifications.

Scott Wallace of Accredited Home Elevator Company, which builds and installs elevators in the New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, advises that the cost varies greatly based on your location and building type. Issues that affect the cost include the structural makeup of your home, the foundation upon which your home is built, the local building code, which can run from very lenient to heavily restricted, and local labor rates.

That said, in gross general terms, elevator cabins can cost around $20,000, but again, that can vary significantly depending upon how many floors are serviced by that one elevator.

A less costly option would be a stair lift; while certainly not as aesthetically pleasing, it can be of great benefit to aging residents. A stair lift would require a minimum stair width of 36 inches; structural integrity to your staircase; and an electrical outlet at the top or the bottom of the run of the stair. This alternative has an associated equipment cost in the realm of $3,000 for the mechanical parts only.

Rethinking the Role of Childhood Bedrooms

Q. Move forward. Downsize ,and live your life. Your children don’t need or want a memorial to their childhood when they come home. They want and need to see you happy and productive. Sleeping arrangements are secondary. — mlg56, Vermont

Q. Mine is about to fly the coop, and my intention is to store most of the childhood paraphernalia, and make over the room into a really welcoming guest room, which I hope she and our friends will enjoy frequently. She won’t need a closet full of clothes — long-term keepers can go into storage, so that opens a lot of space. We will keep many of her beloved books, artwork, and still leave room for the new adventures and memories when they come. — Constance, Oregon

A. A couple of readers commented on the role of childhood bedrooms once the children were out of the house. Generally I agree with mlg56’s instinct to “Move forward,” and Constance from Oregon’s plan to store away her daughter’s keepsakes so she can create a beautiful inviting guest bedroom. Keeping the childhood bedroom intact is not necessarily a benefit to the child or the parent, as eventually it becomes a cleanout that must be dealt with, and time only makes the task at hand look more unappealing to execute.

That said, I think freshening up a current or former child’s bedroom with a nod to their childhood can be a sweet way to commemorate their place in the home while decluttering and possibly dispensing with those decorating phases that were not your favorite to live with as a parent. I would suggest taking a few select artworks, awards, photos and other ephemera and framing them in a series of cohesive frames, and then hanging them along one wall in a grouped composition. It’s fun, it allows for recognition of your child, but also removes the question of whose space it is meant to cater to in the future.

On a more personal note, I recall when I first went to my future in-laws home while dating my husband-to-be when we were in our early 20s. Staying in his childhood bedroom with all the trophies and posters and his twin bed, while enlightening, was definitely a less than comfortable and a slightly awkward experience. As we grew into our late 20s, his twin was changed out for a queen bed, and the room was redecorated. I think he and I both slept better in the room knowing it no longer housed the vestiges of those strange teenage years.

Q. Thinking of turning one of my kids’ rooms into a fitness room with a TRX and stretching areas. What do you think? How would you design it? I don’t need cardio equipment and this is a small bedroom. Thanks. — CPS, Colo.

Home Improvement Marketplace Event, August 24th in San Carlos

Thinking of remodeling your home?  If so, you will not want to miss this event!

Good Living Home Improvement Marketplace, brought to you by the San Carlos Chamber of Commerce and the City of San Carlos, is an exciting event making its debut on the Bay Area home improvement scene on August 24, 2013, 10 am-4 pm.

An unprecedented gathering of businesses displaying and selling items for use in building or remodeling homes will assemble at San Carlos Industrial Park (outdoors) on Saturday, August 24th from 10am-4pm. With unique product displays and demonstrations, music, family activities, food trucks, microbrew and wine vendors, this event will appeal to architects, contractors, designers, homeowners and others interested in improving their living environments.

Building construction and materials businesses (kitchen and bath remodeling, cabinetry, plumbing, flooring, marble, tiling, etc.) represent the largest commercial segment in the city, with over 300 businesses in San Carlos alone. Collectively they contribute nearly 30% of the city’s sales tax revenue. These businesses, along with landscape services, architects, designers and other related services are featured.

“San Carlos is a central location for the strong residential construction industry our Peninsula enjoys. There are a large number of construction related material suppliers in San Carlos, which makes “one stop shopping” a convenience for our customers. In this competitive industry, the Home Improvement Marketplace event gives us each an opportunity to show why customers should choose our products and services.”
Don Mancini, President, Pioneer Millwork

Shakespeare in The Park 2013 - Redwood City

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival brings it's performance of "Macbeth: to downtown Redwood City this month! 

Shakespeare in the Park 2013 (website) Saturday, August 10, 17 & 24 • 7:30pm Sunday, August 11, 18 & 25 • 2:00pm Sequoia High School Campus (map) Celebrating its 31st year, San Francisco Shakespeare Festival brings its performance of “Macbeth” to Downtown Redwood City for 3 weekends in August! Kenneth Kelleher returns  to direct Macbeth. Generally regarded as one of the Bard’s major tragedies (along with Hamlet, Othello, and King Lear), this is the first time SF Shakes has produced it for Free Shakespeare in the Park. Macbeth is memorable for its suspenseful plot and thrilling scenes of witchcraft and swordplay. Audiences will recognize Macbeth’s famous soliloquies, including “Is this a dagger which I see before me?” and “Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow”, as well as the witches’ rhymes “Double double toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble”, which have become an ingrained part of English-speaking culture. Shakespeare in the Park will offer 3 evening shows on Saturdays and 3 afternoon shows on Sundays while providing an opportunity for everyone to see high quality, professional theater in the relaxing setting of Sequoia Campus, free of charge. Free Shakespeare in the Park began in 1983, with its debut production of The Tempest in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. It is now one of the major free Shakespeare programs in the nation. Free Shakespeare in the Park provides an opportunity for everyone to see high quality, professional theater at no cost.

Strategy for a Multiple Offer SItuation

It is definitely a buyer’s market out there in San Carlos, so if you want to buy a home, chances are, there will be a lot of other buyers right behind you. If you think you have found the home of your dreams, what can you do to guarantee that you will get it over someone else?


You have to remember that there simply is no guarantee. There are many factors that go into putting a bid in on a house.

First off, work with a reputable, savvy agent. Have have them determine what the fair market value of the home is.  Review the disclosures so you are familiar with the condition of the home. Talk it over and decide what you are comfortable paying for the home.

A good agent will get as much information as possible from the listing agent so that your offer will be as strong as possible.  In addition to price, it is helpful to know what the ideal terms for the seller would be (close date, rent back, items to include/exclude, etc...) so they will be included in the offer.

If you are working with a lender, it is always helpful if it is a well known reputable one.  In addition to writing a pre-approval letter to submit with the offer, have them call the listing agent before you present the offer to let them know how highly qualified you are and confirm the terms.

If this is your dream home and you want it at all costs, then perhaps investing in inspections prior to writing the offer so that your offer does not need an inspection contingency.  If you have the means, you may also consider an escalation clause. (See my previous post on escalation clauses.)

As always, try to work with an experienced and trusted REALTOR®, who can ease the process for you. They can work with the seller, and hopefully, you can all come to a deal that will leave everyone happy.

We are experienced, trusted and happy to assist you!

Kelly Clarke MBA
Realtor
The Clarke Team
650-489-5399

What Is an Escalation Clause and When Should You Use One?

As real estate markets across the country heat up, competitive buying situations and bidding wars are becoming the norm. In many cities, the majority of new listings are receiving multiple offers. Real estate inventory continues to be extremely low, and growing buyer demand seems to be keeping pace with new homes coming on the market.
Home buyers in competitive situations are looking for any advantage that might win them their dream home over a competitor’s offer. Writing personalized home-buyer letters can create an emotional connection with sellers. Showing a clear picture of financial strength, whether through a strong pre-approval letter or proof of cash funding, can strengthen a buyer’s image.
Often, though, it all comes down to the final price. What a buyer is willing to pay for a home, versus a competing buyer’s offer, will be the deciding factor for the vast majority of sellers. When you’re deciding on what price to offer for a home, the situation may call for a single price or, in some cases, an escalation clause.
What Is an Escalation Clause?
An escalation clause is a real estate contract, sometimes called an escalator, that lets a home buyer say “I will pay x price for this home, but if the seller receives another offer that’s higher than mine, I’m willing to increase my offer to y price.”  In theory, an escalation clause is fairly simple. In practice, there are a lot of details involved.
How Does an Escalation Clause Work?
While escalation clauses vary significantly, the general escalation addendum has a few basic components:

• What is the original offer of purchase price?
• How much will that price be escalated above any other competitive bid?
• What is the maximum amount that the purchase price can reach in case of multiple offers?

For example, buyer Brown offers $100,000 for a home. Her Realtor adds an escalation clause that, in the case of a higher competing offer, will increase Brown’s offer in increments of $2,000 above the competing offer. Her escalation clause goes up to a maximum of $110,000.
If no other offers are submitted, Brown’s offer remains at $100,000. If buyer Green offers the seller $103,000, then Brown’s offer would automatically escalate to $2,000 above that, bringing Brown’s offer to $105,000. If buyer Orange offers $111,000 for the home, then Brown’s maximum of $110,000 will be eclipsed, and Orange will have the top offer.
Will the Seller Accept an Escalation Clause?
Some home sellers simply state that they will not accept an offer with an escalation clause. They would prefer that every buyer submits exactly what they’re willing to pay. Sellers sometimes prefer this method because it motivates buyers to outbid one another on the first try. It also streamlines the paperwork and the decision-making process.
Will There Definitely Be Multiple Offers?
Escalation clauses should only be used when the buyer is fairly confident that there will be multiple offers, or when the buyer expects to pay an escalated price. If a buyer submits an offer with an escalation clause, they’re laying all their cards on the table: The seller knows immediately how far the buyer will go to secure the home.
If that offer ends up being the only offer submitted, it technically remains at its original price. A Realtor representing the seller will know, however, to counteroffer to the buyer at a higher, escalated price, since the buyer is clearly willing to pay more. While there’s no guarantee that the buyer will agree to the higher price, it is likely that they will. A buyer gives up a lot of negotiating power and potentially leaves money on the table when using an escalation clause that goes unmet by a competitor.
Has the Seller’s Agent Clearly Stated a One-Day Review or Multiple Rounds of Offers?
In hot markets, there’s a wide variety of offer-review processes. Some state that the property is going on the market on Friday, and all offers will be reviewed the following Thursday. The seller and their Realtor will make a final decision that day. This situation can be ideal for the escalation clause, when a buyer knows it’s an all-or-nothing offer.
Other sellers take a back-and-forth approach. They may collect offers from buyers for one week, and then respond to a handful of the best offers by saying “Send us your highest and best offer.”  This technique is particularly disliked by many consumers and professionals for its lack of clarity, but it’s important to know that it exists.
Before writing an offer, a buyer’s Realtor can inquire to feel out the details and make sure the buyer is prepared for the situation. Writing an escalation clause on the initial offer in a multistage situation could put the buyer in a weak position during the second round. It’s perfectly legal for a seller’s Realtor, with the seller’s permission, to reveal to all potential buyers what the top initial offer is and to ask everyone to beat it. In this case, the escalation clause would flesh out that buyer’s maximum, and they would lose a competitive edge.
Bid With Careful Confidence and Know That Each Situation Is Unique
If you’re considering an escalation clause, your Realtor is probably knee-deep in researching the circumstances around the seller’s process of reviewing offers. The Realtor’s knowledge of normal practices and probable outcomes in your market will make your offer much more likely to succeed.
Escalation clauses can cause a lot of stress for home buyers, but when they’re boiled down to the basics, they’re fairly straightforward. Remember to be realistic, to be comfortable with how much you’re willing to offer, and to confidently go after a home at that price. Buyers shouldn’t be tempted to escalate their purchase price above what they are comfortable paying. At the same time, they should realize that inventory and interest rates are low, and aggressively pursuing a good home at a good price is necessary to winning in a competitive market. Potential buyers who are only looking to get a steal often end up not being buyers at all.
Sam DeBord is a Realtor® and managing broker at Coldwell Banker Danforth & Associates. Find him on SeattleHome.com.

San Carlos Real Estate Market - 1st Half 2013

San Carlos real estate remains strong!  As illustrated in the chart below that shows the average days on market (DOM) and the Sale to List Price Ratio for the past twelve months.  The average days on market is averaging around 2 weeks (down significantly from the end of 2012) and the average sales price for homes sold is at 110% of list price.  The average days on market would likely be shorter that 2 weeks, but many sellers are strategically setting offer dates so that they can make sure their house gets proper exposure.  This additional exposure will often result in multiple offers which drives the sale price up. 

San Carlos Average Days on Market & Sale to List Price Ratio

If you or anyone you know is thinking of listing their home, now is still a good time. Please call or email me for more information or to see what your home might be worth in this market.

Half Moon Bay - hidden gem http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tina-swithin/finding-hidden-gems-in-ca_b_3179698.html

San Carlos Hometown Days are this weekend!

San Carlos Hometown Days!

May 17, 18 and 19, 2013

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Welcome to San Carlos Hometown Days!

San Carlos Hometown Days voted "Best Family Festival" by Bay Area Parent Magazine!
May 17, 18, & 19, 2013
Friday Night 5:00pm - 7:30pm - SCEF Celebrates Music Kickoff!
Saturday & Sunday 10am - 5pm (Ticket booth for games closes at 4pm on Sunday)

Hometown Days Vision

The vision of the San Carlos Hometown Days Steering Committee is to make San Carlos Hometown Days an annual, self-sustaining event which brings together various constituents in the community at large to promote community spirit, provide a venue for fundraising and community outreach, and provide wholesome family entertainment.

Hometown Days Mission

The mission of the San Carlos Hometown Days Steering Committee is to create an annual event for family enjoyment which celebrates the community, upholds tradition and strives for innovation to keep it fresh and competitive with other events of its type.

Hometown Entertainment for 2013

Entertainment for HTD 2013 has been booked. If you would like to participate in 2014, please fill out the application form on the HTD website when it becomes available after January 1st, 2014. Thank you.

Hometown Days Community Partners

Testimonials

I like EVERYTHING about Hometown Days! – Tina
We like walking in the parade. The Velez Family, Connor Grason, Nicole
I like the marching bands in the parade. Seth Digel
We love all of the kids’ activities! Wendy
My favorite things are the rides. Ashley Lazzaroni
My favorite thing about Hometown Days is the Petting Zoo. Caleb Streck
Playing the games! David, Jesse, Erika R., Austin
I like the pony rides! Sarah, Alison, Abbey
Our favorite thing about Hometown Days is how it reminds us of what a wonderful community we live in. The Rak Family
We love seeing friends and listening to music. Colleen Gwinner
I like the singing. Michael
I like the bouncy house! Caitlynn Reynolds
Gavin likes everything!

It's that time of year again - Hot Harvest Nights Farmers Market in Thursdays in San Carlos!

Hot Harvest Nights Farmer's Market

5/2/2013

When: Every Thursday night, May 2nd through September 12th
From: 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Where: 700 Block of Laurel Street. Downtown San Carlos
Sponsored by the San Carlos Chamber of Commerce, Hot Harvest Nights features certified produce and specialty foods, musical entertainment and walk-away food.  Stores throughout San Carlos' acclaimed downtown will be open for your exploration and enjoyment.  Bring the entire family to enjoy this popular annual event.

A different City Department and City Council Member will attend the 1st Thursday of each month (see schedule below).
The market features 50 to 60 booths set up in the middle of the street which will be closed to traffic.
Hot Harvest Nights features produce, flowers, music, food, artists - something for everyone.
This will be a chance to stroll, meet your friends and have a leisurely night enjoying the finest San Carlos has to offer. Shops and restaurants on Laurel Street will stay open late for this all-community activity. Don't miss out!
Bands:
May 2 - Aki Kumar Blues Band feat with Little Jonny (Foot Stompin' Blues)
May 9 - Bonedrivers (Rockin' Boogie & Blues)
May 16 - Kitchen Help (Bluegrass)
May 23 - SF Bay Jazz Ensemble (Jazz, Big Band)
May 30 - Reflex (80's pop Rock)

June 6 - Dewey & the Peoples (Reggae, World)
June 13 - TikiTones (Hawaiian)
June 20 - Marla Goody & Revelation (Funk, Soul, R&B)
June 27 - Pan Extasy (Caribbean Sound)

July 11 - RipTides (Vintage '60s Surf Rock)
July 18 - Jenny Kerr (Country, Americana)
July 25 - High 'n Tight (Classic Rock w/ a Twist)

Aug. 1 - Cotton Candy Express Music (Tot Rock)
Aug. 8 - Stan Erhart (Blues)
Aug. 15 - Dave Crimmen (Oldies Rock & Roll)
Aug. 22 - Martini Show Unplugged (Raw Rock of Ages)
Aug. 29 - Blue Tuesday (Classic Rock, Americana)

Sept. 5 - KickBack (R&B, Latin, Funk)
Sept. 12 - Jazz Solution (Jazz, Swing)

Go Green!

Remodeling your home?  Please consider donating any reusable items to ReSale in San Carlos - a home improvement resale business and see if there is anything there that you can reuse.  Go Green!

http://www.habitatgsf.org/restore#.UXQfSoUVHI0

Want to see how the market is doing in Edgewood Park in Redwood City?

Market Insider - Edgewood Park in Redwood City

Thinking About Selling Your Bay Area Home? Your Timing May Not Be Better!

	They say timing is everything in life. And that’s particularly true when it comes to real estate. If you’ve been thinking about selling your home but are not sure if this is the right time, think again: There may not be a better time to sell than right now. We are experiencing a severe shortage of homes for sale in our area. Our inventory of listings is at the lowest level it has been in many years. Buyers are out there each weekend scouring the neighborhoods for homes to buy; buyers are ready to make a move when they find a house to buy. With so few homes available in this market, if you were to sell your home now you could potentially get the highest price since the downturn of the housing market. With buyers far outnumbering available homes for sale, sellers are often getting multiple offers – sometimes a dozen or more – often closing at a price that is significantly more than their asking price. We’re not alone here in the San Francisco Bay Area. The low inventory of for-sale homes is creating a seller’s market throughout the country, according to an article by the National Association of Realtors®. Quoting Rick Turley, President of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage for the San Francisco Bay Area, NAR reported that “Buyers and Agents are literally waiting for the next house” to come on the market in many cities. According to NAR, the supply of existing homes for sale reached nearly an eight-year low in January. Nationwide, there is a 4.2-month supply of existing homes for sale and it could take some time before we reach a more balanced market. There are a number of reasons for the shortage of listings. The number of distressed houses for sale is decreasing as the foreclosure crisis recedes. New home construction is improving but still at low levels in most areas of the country. And many homeowners still believe they are too underwater on their mortgage or may not have enough equity in their property to buy their next home. But you may be surprised at how much the tide has turned in the last year. Multiple offers and bids over the asking price are pushing up home values in many areas. Properties that looked like they would have to sell as a short sale have ended up pricing out as a traditional equity transaction with homeowners walking away with cash from the sale. We are experiencing this change in the market every day. In a recent Money magazine article, reporter Beth Braverman said homeowners might be wise to sell now rather than hold off. “It’s tempting to postpone selling to hold out for a better price,” she said. “But if you want to move to a larger place, act sooner rather than later.” While you might be able to sell your home for more if you wait, there’s no way to tell what the future will hold. When more homeowners eventually decide to come into the market, the balance of supply and demand could change in favor of buyers once again. And even if prices go up in the future, the appreciation on a trade-up home could be even greater. As we travel through life, housing needs evolve. You may have outgrown your starter home and need more space now that you have children. Perhaps you want to move to a similar home on a quieter street. You’ve decided to downsize now that the kids are on their own and you are empty nesters. Or you’re just tired of maintaining that big yard in your current home. Whether you’re moving up, across or downsizing, whatever the reason for your move, it’s important to work with a well-qualified professional Realtor® who can help make the transition a success. In order to get the best possible price for a home, you must expose it to the largest number of potential buyers. Start by hiring an Agent from a reputable firm who specializes in your local area. Your Agent must be able to showcase your home in a variety of traditional and online media including professional photography, direct mail, property flyers, listing syndication, social media, and electronic communication to area Agents. Additionally, your Agent should also identify the key selling features of the home and actively promote the property to other Agents during the brokers’ tour and to potential buyers during an open house. Your best choice is to start by hiring the San Francisco Bay Area’s leading real estate services company, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Our proven marketing plan will showcase your home to the widest possible audience of qualified buyers and net you the best price possible for your property. Selling your home can be a complicated and stressful process. But it doesn’t have to be, especially when you are working with the best. As a full-service company, we are with you every step of the way, keeping you informed about the entire transaction. As your professional Realtor®, I can help you navigate through the process of selling your home and even help you find your next home that fits your current situation. Contact me today for a private consultation and to learn more about my comprehensive marketing program. As they say, timing is everything.

	©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office Is Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. DRE License #01908304

Monthly Home Maintenance – March: Kitchen

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• Clean the range-hood filter in your kitchen.

• Remove all the items from your cupboards and pantry. Wipe shelves clean, check expiration dates on all products and toss anything old.

• Clean your refrigerator and oven.

• Don’t forget to move your household clocks forward on March 11 during Daylight Saving Time

We hope this guide helps make your home maintenance easier.  If you would ever like recommendations for professional service vendors that can help you with your home maintenance, please call us at anytime. To request a guide for the entire year, please call or email us.

The Clarke Team
sold@clarketeam.com
650-489-5399

Monthly Home Maintenance - January is Decluttering and Organizing

• Take down, clean and store holiday ornaments, decorations and
exterior lights.
• Put away all of those holiday gifts.
• While you are making room for your new gifts, take the opportunity
to go through your closet and get rid of things you haven’t used for
a year.
• Do end-of-the-year accounting and set-up a file folder for the current
year’s taxes.

Want to know how San Carlos is doingin this market?

http://www.sancarloshomefinder.com/mimarket/zip/94070/

3 important provisions from the recently passed Federal “fiscal cliff” legislation

Here are 3 important provisions from the recently passed Federal “fiscal cliff” legislation:

·         Extension of the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act was included, providing protection for homeowners seeking a short sale, a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, foreclosure or loan modification.  Without the passage of the extension many homeowners would be subject to additional taxes based on the amount forgiven. The extension is through 12/31/2013.*

·         Legislators also left in place exemptions for profits on home sales, and kept the mortgage-interest deductions.

·         Borrowers with mortgage insurance, from private guarantors or the U.S. government, will be able to deduct their premiums. That perquisite had expired at the end of 2011. The change will apply retroactively to 2012 for homeowners making less than $110,000 a year and will remain in force this year, through 2013.

Hope your New Year is off to a great start!

How to Get Rid of Stuff and Declutter Your Life

How to Get Rid of Stuff and Declutter Your Life