Only Three Days Left……

 

Post was originally published on Redfin San Francisco Blog December 2006.

Today’s most popular property is 4010 Villa Vera in Palo Alto. This 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms Silicon Valley townhouse features all the ingredients of a Miami South Beach hotel (pools, spas and high-net worth neighbors). Selling at $899,000, this property may be the answer to those late night urges to jump into the pool.

 

I must admit that I am happily surprised at the activity over the Christmas Holiday. In years past I have found that most buyers stayed away from year end purchases. However, this Christmas l received five wonderful gifts disguised as, “Ask about a listing”, emails. I responded to each of the them with a child like energy between cups of hot apple cider and slices of roast beef. Never mind the last minute shopping and the traffic delays it seems that at least some people think that the “greatest gift” that one can receive this year is the “pride of ownership”.

Time for a Dip in the Hot Tub.

 

Post was originally published on Redfin San Francisco Blog December 2006.

Today’s most popular property is 4150 Malvini Drive in San Jose. Sporting a 4 bedrooms and two bathrooms single story floor plan, this home is well priced but lacks the renovations that today’s picky buyers demand. About the only thing that struck me about this home is the patio and hot tub that is in the backyard. The kitchen and bathrooms date back to the 70s and the plush carpet desperately needs to be taken out.

Despite the lack of amenities this home will likely sell for more than the list price. Properties in family based locations tend to sell quickly, but the sellers will probably have to wait until the new year in order to get any real interest. I don’t know too may families that have moved during the winter…too many holiday parties and Christmas gifts to worry about. Don’t you agree?  

Are Gated Communities Overrated?

 

Post was originally published on Redfin San Francisco Blog December 2006. 

Today’s most popular property is 10137 Lamplighter Square in Cupertino. This 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms home has the perfect address to brighten up a cold and wet December Friday. This home features views of the hills, a remodeled kitchen, sparkling clean bathrooms, real hard wood floors and a favorite of mine cathedral ceilings. Aside from the fact, that this home is in a cul-de-sac it’s also located in a gated community. Are gated communities worth paying a premium for or are they a waste of money?

Growing up my father told me that location is the best determinant of value. Today’s most popular property represents examples of “the best” locations to live in a residential neighborhood. What monetary value can both a cul-de-sac and a gated community really provide?

In my understanding, a gated community really provides safety and exclusivity. These home are more safe because of the limitations on in and out privileges. Therefore, these limitations provide a sense of control which home owners appreciate as safer neighborhoods. Additionally, more expensive homes are located in these gated communities in order to attract buyers who would pay more money for that quality. Accordingly, these homes become more exclusive not necessarily because of higher demand, but as a result of higher price points which keeps certain buyers out. In my opinion, when you have the chance to live in these safer and more exclusive homes please do. There really isn’t a price tag you can place on these qualities. However, when it comes time to sell those qualities will be easy selling points for buyers to understand. In turn, it means more money for you!

A Taste of the Mediterranean in the Avenues…

Post was originally published on Redfin San Francisco Blog December 2006.

Today’s most popular property is 2246 32nd Avenue in San Francisco. Of all the types of homes in San Francisco, this home is most dear to my heart. Maybe it’s because I spent most of my childhood in a house that was similar to this or maybe it’s because 50% of the homes in San Francisco look just like today’s most clicked-on property. Built well after World War I, these homes are built to last. New windows and well-maintained hardwood floors make this two bedrooms and two bathrooms home a quick sell at $775,000. Check the Zestimate

The Parkside area of San Francisco allows residents to be close to Golden Gate Park and the ocean within a matter of minutes. An all time favorite of mine to wander off to after a long day of hard work is the ‘Beach Chalet’ this is a great place to unwind and guzzle down a few tall and frosty Chalet beers…For those romantics, this is the perfect place to watch the sunset while listening to some mushroom jazz in the background. Enjoy!