Stay Up to Date on the East Bay Market

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April 2023 | Market Report

Check out the latest market data, real estate news, and housing statistics for the East Bay. Compliments of your realtor, Simone Koga!

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Simone Spotlight | Hiking in the East Bay does the Body Good

It’s been scientifically proven that hiking is good for you. Today’s blog focuses on the benefits hiking has on your well-being.

 

4 Reasons Why Walking Outside Benefits the Brain

Demanding schedules leave many people feeling trapped inside, not able to enjoy nature as regularly as they may desire. Additionally, a busy home life makes it difficult to get out of the house from time to time. However, the benefits of walking outside every day are proven to help keep the brain healthy. Even if all you have time for is a ten minute walk, it’s worth it!

Getting Fresh Air

I’m sure you’ve heard this expression at some point. Getting fresh air allegedly helps a person feel better. However, not many people know what getting fresh air does for the brain. Oxygen is absolutely essential in maintaining healthy brain function, growth, and healing.

In fact, the brain uses about three times as much oxygen for healthy neuron function, as muscles do. The brain is extremely sensitive to decreases in oxygen levels. Therefore when a person takes a walk outside, getting to breathe fresh outdoor air actually improves brain function, especially if a person is cooped up in an office most of the day.

A great suggestion for better work performance is to take a walk outside of the office during breaks!

Improved Concentration

Spending time outdoors with natural scenery has actually been proven to improve brain functions such as concentration. In fact, one study took a group of children with ADHD and compared how well they performed after they were split into two groups.

One of the groups spent the majority of the time after school and on weekends in outdoor green spaces, and the other group spent most of their time playing indoors. The group playing outside showed fewer symptoms of ADHD than their counterparts, even while performing the same tasks.

Increased Vitamin D

When out in sunlight, a person’s skin synthesizes vitamin D, an essential nutrient for healthy brain function. Vitamin D actually protects the neurons in the brain and reduces inflammation. There have also been connections drawn between vitamin D and neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve growth.

All of these are essential to our daily functioning, and therefore vitamin D is extremely important, yet vitamin D deficiency continues to become more common each year. Getting out into the sunlight will give you some of the vitamin D you need. Again, even if you can get out for only ten minutes, it’s still worth it!

Stress Reduction

So many people are working inside a building all day, getting stressed out by a variety of factors in their workplace. Going outside can help reduce this stress. Scientists have discovered physiological evidence that suggests spending time in nature reduces stress, such as observed lowered heart rates and less time spent thinking about problems and/or insecurities.

Furthermore, taking a walk outside will help the brain produce endorphins, which are neurotransmitters responsible for regulating mood. Both being outside and walking can work together to create positive changes in an overall state of mind.

Follow the link to read more the source of this article:

https://www.advancedneurotherapy.com/blog/2015/09/10/walking-outside-brain

 
 
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Your Weekly Guide to Local Events | April 7th - 13th

It's another fun-filled week in the East Bay!

Here are some of the local events for you to enjoy ⬇️🔥🔥🔥:

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Easter Events in The East Bay

Happy Easter! Here are some of the great events to enjoy with your family in the East Bay this upcoming Easter holiday! 🐣🐣🐣

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East Bay Weekly Events

Another week is packed with outdoor and indoor activities.
Perfect for friends and family bonding!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below. ⬇️🔍

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

March 31- April06

 
 

Another week is packed with outdoor and indoor activities.
Perfect for friends and family bonding!
The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below. ⬇️🔍

 
 

Friday 03/31

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am Berkeley Public Library Late Opening - All Library Locations

12pm Montclair Village MVA Promotions Committee Check-in

4:30pm Berkeley Public Library Leamos autoras: club de lectura en español (programa híbrido)

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID | WE ARE ONE: A CONVERSATION ON FEM GENDER IDENTITY; A.B.L.U.N.T. COLLECTIVE DJ SESSIONS

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

Saturday 04/01

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

8am Alameda County Fair 66th Annual Golden Gate Arabian Show

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Oakland Public Library Free AARP Smart Driver Course

10am Berkeley Public Library Tai Chi on the lawn @North

10am Alameda County Fair The Cat Extravaganza & Adoption Event

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am Berkeley Public Library Berkeley & Portland LGBT+ Book Club

12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

1pm Jack London Square EASTER CELEBRATION

1:00 PM Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 

2pm Oakland Public Library Off the Hook - Crochet and Knitting Club

3pm Berkeley Public Library Microaggression Workshop for Kids @North

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

Sunday 04/02

8am Alameda County Fair 66th Annual Golden Gate Arabian Show

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Alameda County Fair The Cat Extravaganza & Adoption Event

10am Camron-Stanford House "Oakland the Beautiful" A Community Art Show at Camron-Stanford House

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

3pm Oakland Public Library Help for Renters

Monday 04/03

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

12pm Jack London Square BEN & JERRY'S FREE CONE DAY!

1pm Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Tabletop Gaming @ Montclair

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Space Week: Make Galactic Slime @West

Tuesday 04/04

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Place Parent-Child Playshops @Central (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

1pm Berkeley Public Library Planetarium @West

5pm Oakland Public Library Neighborhood Business Assistance Center Appointments

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Walk the Lake

Wednesday 04/05

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

2pm Oakland Public Library Afterschool Crafts | Manualidades después de clase

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Space Week: Movie @West

4pm Berkeley Public Library Family Yoga Story Time@ THP South

4pm Berkeley Public Library Basic Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)

5pm Oakland Public Library Mix It Up: Family & Friends Game Night

Thursday 04/06

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Space Week: Virtual Reality & Crafts @West

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Clemente College Experience with Oakland Adult & Career Education

6pm Oakland Public Library We Bike Book Club

7pm Montclair Village Montclair Neighborhood Council /Montclair Organized Neighborhood Leaders Monthly Public Meeting









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Simone Spotlight | Stop and Smell the Roses

Stop and smell the roses Monday blog.

Who doesn’t love freshly cut floral arrangements in their home? Personally, I love arranging my own flowers and I buy dozens of roses every week or every other week because I enjoy their smell and how they brighten a room.

 

Stop & Smell the Roses

Who doesn’t love freshly cut floral arrangements in their home? Personally, I love arranging my own flowers and I buy dozens of roses every week or every other week because I enjoy their smell and how they brighten a room.

Interestingly, scientists have been doing research on the impact roses have on people’s brains and today’s blog goes over the impact a bouquet of roses can have on your brain and how you can improve your mental health by stopping to smell the roses.

As it turns out they are not just a pretty decoration, smelling roses can have some pretty amazing cognitive benefits. The Feb. 4th, 2020 edition of Martha Stuart’s online magazine features the findings of a new study published in Scientific Reports that the scents of roses can help people retain information and success in learning. The scent of roses can give your brain a boost overnight.

Part of the study used two test groups, including sixth-grade students studying for an exam. One of the test groups studied while smelling rose-scented incense, whereas the other did not. The researchers placed rose-scented incense near the group as a retrieval cue and the test group demonstrated stronger information retention than those who did not.

Some of the students used rose-scented incense while they slept, and the students that used rose-scented incense during both their study and sleeping phases demonstrated a 30% increase in learning. The findings of these reports were also published in Neuroscience News.

The benefits of smelling roses benefit you and your family. It is a wonderful way to give your brain a natural boost and teach your children how they can support their mental health. Consider not only keeping roses on the table in your house but in your office, on your children’s desks, and on your night tables to give your children and yourself those mental boosts. You could even use aromatherapy in the house with rose oil to give your house the fresh smell of roses.

Teach your children the benefits of smelling roses and a great way to spend the day (when it’s not raining) is at the Berkeley Rose Garden where you can find thousands of roses. They provide an ample garden where you can spend the day smelling the roses.

If you want to read the Martha Stuart article, click below.

Martha Stuart Article


 
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MARCH 2023 EDITION | DIGITAL TRIFOLD

Check out the Simone Koga Group’s latest giveaway contest in this month’s digital trifold. Compliments of your Realtor, Simone Koga!

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East Bay Weekly Events

Laughter is the best medicine!
Have fun with your loved ones
by attending the East Bay weekly events that are listed below. ⬇️🔍

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

March 24- March 30

 
 

Laughter is the best medicine!
Have fun with your loved ones
by attending the East Bay weekly events that are listed below. ⬇️🔍

 
 

Friday 03/24

12am Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Bilingual Baby Bounce (Spanish/Español) @West

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

2pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Main TeenZone

5pm Oakland Public Library Lawyers in the Library: Tax Clinic

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID | ALEXANDRA THE AUTHOR (LIVE MUSIC); DJ DURT

8pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday

Saturday 03/25

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

8am Alameda County Fair 39th Grundy Insurance All American Get-Together

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Story Time @Downtown Berkeley Farmer's Market

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am Fourth Street SPRING SIDEWALK SALE, HEAD WEST MARKETPLACE & SPRING ARTISAN MARKET

11am Evenbrite Join Sambaxé for the Carnaval Parade - Samba Rehearsals

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

1pm Oakland Public Library African American Quilt Guild of Oakland Monthly Meeting

1:00 PM Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 

2:30pm Oakland Public Library Creative Reuse: Amish Knotting (part 1)

3pm Oakland Public Library Financial Planning with Operation Hope

Sunday 03/26

8am Alameda County Fair 39th Grundy Insurance All American Get-Together

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

9:30am Oakland Zoo Little Vets

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

12pm Oakland Public Library Lawyers in the Library

1pm Oakland Museum of California VOICES OF THE IRANIAN DIASPORA

Monday 03/27

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

1pm Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Library Advisory Commission Meeting

Tuesday 03/28

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Place Parent-Child Playshops @Central (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)

11am Eventbrite Spring Break Daily Tours

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates Multi-Pass

3pm Berkeley Public Library Manga Button Making @North

4pm Oakland Public Library Junior Carpentry Workshop - FULL!

5pm Berkeley Public Library Resumes: Get Unstuck, Turn New Corners, and Find New Career Paths

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Clemente College Experience with Oakland Adult & Career Education

Wednesday 03/29

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am Berkeley Public Library eBooks, eAudiobook, Newspapers, Movies, and More @Central

2pm Oakland Public Library Afterschool Crafts | Manualidades después de clase

4pm Berkeley Public Library CraftLab: Weaving is Coding @West

5pm Oakland Public Library Mix It Up: Family & Friends Game Night

6pm Oakland Public Library An Evening with Rosa Clemente--Can't Stop Our Blackness: Black Latinx Narratives & Resisting Erasure

Thursday 03/30

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time @Freight & Salvage

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

4pm Oakland Public Library Read to a Dog

4pm Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Main TeenZone

6:15pm Montclair Village MVA Board Meeting








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Simone Spotlight | What to Consider when Investing in a Property or in Properties?

Today’s blog goes over the things you should consider before choosing a real estate property to invest in.

 

What to Consider when Investing in a Property or in Properties?

March 20th

 
 

The Most Important Factors for Real Estate Investing

What's the most important thing to look for in real estate? While location is always a key consideration, there are numerous other factors that help determine if an investment is right for you. Here's a look at some of the most important things to consider if you plan to invest in the real estate market.

1. Property Location 

The adage "location, location, location" is still king and continues to be the most important factor for profitability in real estate investing. Proximity to amenities, green space, scenic views, and the neighborhood's status factor prominently into residential property valuations. 

A key when considering property location is the mid-to-long-term view regarding how the area is expected to evolve over the investment period. For example, today’s peaceful open land at the back of a residential building could someday become a noisy manufacturing facility, diminishing its value. Thoroughly review the ownership and intended usage of the immediate areas where you plan to invest.

One way to collect information about what are the prospects of the vicinity of the property you are considering is to contact town hall or other public agencies in charge of zoning and urban planning. This will give you access to the long-term area planning and make a determination how favorable or unfavorable to your own plan for the property.

2. Valuation of the Property 

Property valuation is important for financing during the purchase, listing price, investment analysis, insurance, and taxation—they all depend on real estate valuation.

Commonly used real estate valuation methods include:

  • Sales comparison approach: recent comparable sales of properties with similar characteristics—most common and suitable for both new and old properties

  • Cost approach: the cost of the land and construction, minus depreciation— suitable for new construction

  • Income approach: based on expected cash inflows—suitable for rentals

3. Investment Purpose and Investment Horizon 

Given the low liquidity and high-value investment in real estate, a lack of clarity on purpose may lead to unexpected results, including financial distress—especially if the investment is mortgaged.

Identify which of the following broad categories suits your purpose, and then plan accordingly:

  • Buy and self-use. Here you will save on rent and have the benefit of self-utilization, while also getting value appreciation.

  • Buy and lease. This offers regular income and long-term value appreciation. However, the temperament to be a landlord is needed to handle possible disputes and legal issues, manage tenants, repair work, etc.

  • Buy and sell (short-term). This is generally for quick, small to medium profit—the typical property is under construction and sold at a profit on completion.

  • Buy and sell (long-term). This is generally focused on large intrinsic value appreciation over a long period. This offers alternatives to compliment long-term goals, such as retirement.

4. Expected Cash Flows and Profit Opportunities 

Cash flow refers to how much money is left after expenses. Positive cash flow is key to a good rate of return on an investment property.

Develop projections for the following modes of profit and expenses:

  • Expected cash flow from rental income (inflation favors landlords for rental income)

  • Expected increase in intrinsic value due to long-term price appreciation.

  • Benefits of depreciation (and available tax benefits)

  • Cost-benefit analysis of renovation before sale to get a better price

  • Cost-benefit analysis of mortgaged loans vs. value appreciation

5. Be Careful with Leverage 

Loans are convenient, but they may come at a big cost. You commit your future income to get utility today at the cost of interest spread across many years. Be sure you understand how to handle loans of this nature and avoid high levels of debt or what they call over-leverage. Even experts in real estate are challenged by over-leverage in times of adverse market conditions and the liquidity shortages with high debt obligations can break real estate projects.

Depending upon your current and expected future earnings, consider the following:

  • Decide on the type of mortgage that best fits your situation—fixed-rate, adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), interest-only, zero down payment, etc. Note that each type of mortgage has its own risk profile and you need to study each carefully. For instance, ARM includes mortgage rates that can change at any time driven by capital market forces and the borrower must accept any rate changes during the loan term.

  • Be aware of the terms, conditions, and other charges levied by the mortgage lender.

  • Shop around to find lower interest rates and better terms.

6. New Construction vs. Existing Property 

New construction usually offers attractive pricing, the option to customize, and modern amenities. Risks include delays, increased costs, and the unknowns of a newly-developed neighborhood.

Existing properties offer convenience, faster access, established improvements (utilities, landscaping, etc.), and in many cases, lower costs.

Here are some key things to look for when deciding between a new construction or an existing property:

  • Review past projects and research the construction company's reputation for new investments.

  • Review property deeds, recent surveys, and appraisal reports for existing properties.

  • Consider monthly maintenance costs, outstanding dues, and taxes. Costs such as these can severely impact your cash flow.

  • When investing in leased property, find out if the property is rent-controlled, rent-stabilized, or free market. Is the lease about to expire? Are renewal options favorable to the tenant? Who owns the furnishings?

  • Quality-check items (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) if these are to be included in the sale.

7. Indirect Investments in Real Estate 

Managing physical properties over a long-term horizon is not for everyone. Alternatives exist that allow you to invest in the real estate sector indirectly.

Consider other ways to invest in real estate:

  • Real estate investment trusts (REITs)

  • Real estate company stocks

  • Real estate sector-focused mutual funds and ETFs

  • Mortgage bonds

  • Mortgage-backed securities (MBS)

8. Your Credit Score 

Your credit score affects your ability to qualify for a mortgage, and it impacts the terms your lender offers. If you have a higher credit score, you may get better terms—which can add up to substantial savings over time.

 Mortgage lending discrimination is illegal. If you think you've been discriminated against based on race, religion, sex, marital status, use of public assistance, national origin, disability, or age, there are steps you can take. One such step is to file a report to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Scores greater than 800 are considered excellent and will help you qualify for the best mortgage. If necessary, work on improving your credit score:

  • Pay bills on time—set up automatic payments or reminders

  • Pay down debt

  • Aim for no more than 30% credit utilization

  • Don't close unused credit cards—as long as you're not paying annual fees

  • Limit requests for new credit and "hard" inquiries

  • Review your credit report and dispute inaccuracies

9. Overall Real Estate Market 

As with other types of investments, it's good to buy low and sell high. Real estate markets fluctuate, and it pays to be aware of trends. It's also important to pay attention to mortgage rates so you can lower your financing costs, if possible.

Stay up-to-date with trends and statistics for:

  • Home prices and home sales (overall and in your desired market)

  • New construction

  • Property inventory

  • Mortgage rates

  • Flipping activity

  • Foreclosures

The Bottom Line 

Real estate can help diversify your portfolio. In general, real estate has a low correlation with other major asset classes—so when stocks are down, real estate is often up. A real estate investment can also provide steady cash flow, substantial appreciation, tax advantages, and competitive risk-adjusted returns, making it a sound investment.

Of course, just like any investment, it's important to consider certain factors, like the ones listed here, before you invest in real estate—whether you opt for physical property, REITs, or something else.

 
 
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East Bay Weekly Events

Have any exciting plans been made for the coming week?
Spend your time with your friends and family.
Check out the latest fun local events for the East Bay
on the list below. ⬇️🔍

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

March 10 - March 16

 
 

Have any exciting plans been made for the coming week?
Spend your time with your friends and family.
Check out the latest fun local events for the East Bay
on the list below. ⬇️🔍

 
 

Friday 03/10 

7:00 AM Alameda County Fair SHOWSTOPPER DANCE COMPETITION GENERAL PARKING

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

12:00 AM Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests 

1:00 PM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

2:00 PM Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Main TeenZone

4:00 PM Oakland Public Library Craft, Gardening, ... etc.

4:00 PM Jack London Square BLOOD DRIVE

7:30 PM Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8:00 PM Comedy Oakland Live - Friday

Saturday 03/11

7:00 AM Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

7:00 AM Alameda County Fair SHOWSTOPPER DANCE COMPETITION GENERAL PARKING

8:00 AM Eventbrite Marin Co Fun 2-Day Red Cross Lifeguard Training -Blended Learning

9:30 AM Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES: SCAT

10:00 AM Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central

11:00 AM Berkeley Public Library The Traveling Reptile Show with East Bay Vivarium @North

11:00 AM Oakland Public Library Club de Lectura en Español / Spanish Book Club 

12:00 PM Oakland Public Library Mindful Nature/Bird Hike with Susana Renaud

12:00 PM Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Chávez 

1:00 PM Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 

2:00 PM Oakland Public Library Cinema Saturday - Turning Red

2:30 PM Berkeley Public Library Soulful Spring Cleaning: Marie Kondo Style @Claremont (in person event)

6:00 PM Montclair Village NOCTURNAL: ILLUMINATION

7:00 PM Comedy Oakland Live - Friday Early Show

7:30 PM Montclair Village FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

9:30 PM Comedy Oakland Live - Friday Late Show

Sunday 03/12

7:00 AM Alameda County Fair SHOWSTOPPER DANCE COMPETITION GENERAL PARKING

8:00 AM Eventbrite Marin Co Fun 2-Day Red Cross Lifeguard Training -Blended Learning

9:00 AM Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

9:30 AM Oakland Zoo Little Vets

10:00 AM Camron-Stanford House "Oakland the Beautiful" A Community Art Show at Camron-Stanford House

12:00 PM Oakland Public Library Los Amigos/Friends of the César Chávez Library

1:00 PM Oakland Public Library Rock Paper Scissors Collective’s Community Art Workshop Series

Monday 03/13

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - ¡Baila Conmigo!

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

10:00 AM Camron-Stanford House "Oakland the Beautiful" A Community Art Show at Camron-Stanford House

12:00 PM Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @Claremont

Tuesday 03/14

10:00 AM Camron-Stanford House "Oakland the Beautiful" A Community Art Show at 

Camron-Stanford House

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates Multi-Pass

3:30 PM Berkeley Public Library Knitting Group @Central

6:00 PM Montclair Village Lawyers in the Library

6:30 PM Oakland Public Library One Village, One Book

Wednesday 03/15

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10:00 AM Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30 AM Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

2:30 PM Berkeley Public Library Teen Games Club @North

3:00 PM Oakland Public Library Yoga for children — 10-class series

6:00 PM Oakland Public Library Father Circle

6:30 PM Camron-Stanford House Curious Cat Literary Society Meeting

Thursday 03/16

10:00 AM Camron-Stanford House "Oakland the Beautiful" A Community Art Show at Camron-Stanford House

3:30 PM Berkeley Public Library Teen Crochet & Craft @Central

4:00 PM Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca 

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

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East Bay Weekly Events

Have any exciting plans been made for the coming week?
Spend your time with your friends and family.
Check out the latest fun local events for the East Bay
on the list below. ⬇️🔍

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

March 17- March 23

 
 

Have any exciting plans been made for the coming week?
Spend your time with your friends and family.
Check out the latest fun local events for the East Bay
on the list below. ⬇️🔍

 
 

Friday 03/17

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Bilingual Story Time (Spanish/Español) @West

11am Berkeley Public Library Basic Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

12:30pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Teen Craft Pop-Up @Brookfield

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID | VÂN-ÁNH VANESSA VÕ & ENSEMBLE (LIVE MUSIC); DJ LADY FINGAZ

8pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday

Saturday 03/18

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

8am Eventbrite San Jose Fun 2-Day Red Cross Lifeguard Training -Blended Learning

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central (Registration required)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am Oakland Public Library Crafty Saturdays

1pm Oakland Public Library Making Sense of Medicare

1:00 PM Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 

2pm Berkeley Public Library A Capella Choir Performance @THPS

2pm Berkeley Public Library Celtic Music with Chris Waltz@ Claremont

4pm Oakland Public LibraryTeen Tarot with Librarian Pat!

7pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday Early Show

7:15pm Alameda County Fair Foam Glow

9:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday Late Show

Sunday 03/19

8am Eventbrite San Jose Fun 2-Day Red Cross Lifeguard Training -Blended Learning

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

9:30am Oakland Zoo Little Vets

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Alameda County Fair Pleasanton Wedding Festival

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

12pm Oakland Public Library Lawyers in the Library

3pm Black Cultural Zone Umoja Roller Rink @ Liberation Park

Monday 03/20

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - ¡Baila Conmigo!

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Oakland Public Library Toddler Storytime

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

2pm Berkeley Public Library Sargent and Spain Art Talk @West

Tuesday 03/21

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Place Parent-Child Playshops @Central (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates Multi-Pass

11:45am Oakland Public Library Baby Bounce

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Teen DJ Radio Hour

4pm Oakland Public Library Junior Carpentry Workshop - FULL!

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Cal Scientists Talks: Popping the Science Bubble

Wednesday 03/22

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11am Berkeley Public Library Switching from Overdrive to Libby @Central

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

4pm Berkeley Public Library Family Yoga Story Time@ THP South

5pm Oakland Public Library Family & Friends Game Night

Thursday 03/23

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

10am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY WATER ST. MAKERS

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

4pm Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca

4pm Oakland Public Library Read to a Dog

4pm Berkeley Public Library Read & Share Book Club @West

4pm Berkeley Public Library Teen Button Making @West

7pm Berkeley Public Library Virtual Parent Workshop w/ Cory Silverberg & Karleen Pendleton Jimenez






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March 2023 | Market Report

Hey East Bay!

Here are the latest real estate trends and the most up-to-date data, reports, and information regarding the East Bay real estate market.

Feel free to contact Simone Koga at 415.706.1586 if you have any questions about the real estate market.

MARCH 2023 | MARKET REPORT marketingcenter-sfbayarea-oaklandberkeleywinecountry
 
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Simone Spotlight | Creating a Safety Plan for Your Family

Hey East Bay!

Living in NorCal, we can fully appreciate the saying hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Emergencies are no fun, but what’s worse is not being prepared for disasters when they happen.

That’s why I created a comprehensive list of kits you can put together for the worst-case scenario that we all hope will never happen, but just in case it does, you’re ready!

 

Creating a Safety Plan for Your Family

March 13th

 
 

Northern California is familiar with natural disasters. Living close to nature means you'll inevitably encounter them. Evacuation orders are common, and it's easy to become complacent when returning home unscathed is the norm. While most fires, floods, and earthquakes happen to someone else, as wildfires rage and the San Andreas Fault threatens below your feet, it's wise to review your disaster preparedness plan.

If your "plan" consists of slippers by the bed, La Croix in the fridge, and a flashlight somewhere - which seems popular but better suited for midnight snacks than emergencies - consider that government response time can take up to 72 hours during major crises. That means you're on your own for three days. It might be time to flesh out that plan a bit more.

MAKE A PLAN:

  • Select your “emergency buddies” – a small group of friends and loved ones you’ll meet up with in the event of an emergency. Decide on a public meeting spot like a park or major landmark.

  • Practice escape routes, evaluating each for ease of access.

  • Keep a flashlight next to your bed, along with rubber-soled slippers or a pair of shoes.

SAFEGUARD YOUR HOME:

  • Locate your gas shut-off valve – you will want to act fast after an earthquake, so hang a wrench nearby if possible and make sure you know how to use it.

  • Secure large furniture, mirrors, and frames to the wall.

  • Learn about defensible space zones and implement them in your yard.

PROTECT YOUR FINANCES: 

  • Closely examine your insurance paperwork to determine the full scope of coverage.

GET INVOLVED: 

  • Join your Community Emergency Response Team to learn basic disaster response techniques and find out who amongst your neighbors is equipped to help.

  • Sign up for local emergency text alerts.

  • Visit https://www.oaklandca.gov/services/readyoakland for emergency preparedness education and real-time information, along with community skills and resources – you can pledge your own skills and resources here as well.

HOME EMERGENCY KIT: 

  • Food: Freeze-dried food, canned items, or MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) are the best alternative foods for your emergency kit.

  • Kitchenware: Can opener, utensils, plates, bowls, dual-burner stove – anything you need to prepare and consume the food you packed.

  • Water: You’ll want at least a gallon per person per day, not including cooking or bathing. Food-safe water barrels hold up to 55-gallons and have a shelf life of five years. Pump out as much or as little as you need at a time and store it in a Dromedary bag.

  • First-Aid Kit: Think beyond band-aids and look for one equipped to stop bleeding and control serious trauma, like Adventure Medical’s Trauma Pak with QuikClot.

  • Clothing: Pack comfortable clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy shoes, a durable jacket, multiple pairs of socks, and underwear.

  • Hygiene: Stock up on wipes for hand cleaning and waterless showers. Duplicate your dopp kit basics, and don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss – the last thing you need after a life-altering event is a thinly-veiled lecture from your dentist. Other easy to miss essentials include deodorant, sunscreen, liquid and bar soap, feminine products, hair accessories, a nail file, and clippers.

  • Sanitation: You may find yourself without working plumbing. Invest in a portable toilet and toilet waste bags – and don’t forget the two-ply. Highly recommended extra: Bio-Blue Toilet Deodorant.

  • Sleep Stuff: Sleeping bags and plenty of blankets are a great alternative, but you may want to add a tent and air mattress, just in case.

  • Technical Supplies: Work gloves, paracord (military spec rope), waterproof safety matches, gorilla tape, tarps, clear plastic sheeting, multi-tool pocket-knife – basically the suburban garage starter kit.

  • Fire Extinguishers: Keep one near every room, if possible, along with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

  • Search & Rescue Tools: A basic whistle can be a huge lifesaver. You should also keep recent photos of family members or housemates in sealed Ziploc bags in case anyone gets separated. Explore all-weather notebooks and pens to leave waterproof messages that won’t run or turn to mush. An ax and folding saw might seem a bit heavy-handed, but you’ll be glad to have them if you need to clear trees and debris or make a fire.

  • Lighting: You’ll likely need more than just the flashlight beside your bed – though that one’s very important. Put a couple more flashlights with rechargeable batteries in your kit along with a headlamp and emergency candles.

  • Communication: Long-range walkie-talkies are a great alternative when cell towers are down or overloaded – just make sure to charge their batteries somewhat regularly. For radio/emergency updates, use a solar hand crank digital radio.

  • Power: It’s stressful enough keeping your phone charged on a normal day. Fortunately, portable chargers have come a long way. For max power, select a solar or gas-powered generator – the latter can even keep a mini fridge running. Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries are good to have on-hand as well.

  • Personal Items: Copies of your passport, birth certificate, insurance policies, medication information, proof of address, an extra set of keys, and at least one hundred dollars in cash.

  • Entertainment: Cards, board games, etc. – anything that can serve as a fun distraction from a very stressful reality.

  • Storage: Stow your kit in a water-resistant plastic storage container, preferably in the yard outside your home in case the structure collapses. Include gallon size Ziploc bags and mesh storage sacks to keep loose items dry, organized, and easy to take on the go.

EMERGENCY CAR KIT:

  • Food & Water: 6 flameless MREs and two gallons of water are the recommended minimum for two people. If you typically travel with more passengers, adjust the amount accordingly.

  • Mask: We’ve all become well-acquainted with these lately. For your emergency kit, look for an N95 or similar particulate respirator to prevent dust and debris from entering your lungs.

  • Survival Blanket: Mylar blankets help you retain your body heat, providing exceptional warmth – especially if you have to sleep in your car or outside overnight.

  • Technical Supplies: Keep an escape hammer and knife in your door pocket in case you need to break the window and/or cut your seatbelt. Basic supplies like a tarp, duct tape, and pocket-knife can go in the trunk with the rest of your kit.

  • First Aid Kit: You’ll want a well-organized first aid kit with supplies for a variety of injuries, such as bleeding, blisters, fractures, sprains, and open wounds.

  • Search & Rescue Tools: Light sticks are great for signaling and marking locations; throw in an emergency poncho in case you have to wait for assistance in the rain. All-weather tactical notebooks and pens let you leave waterproof messages that repel sweat, grease, and mud.

 
 
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Simone Spotlight | Pricing Strategies to Consider When Selling Your Home

Hey East Bay!!!

If you have ever wondered how pricing strategies can help you sell your home, here are a few options on which approach might be best suited for your home sale for your consideration.

 

How to Price Your Home?

March 6th

 
 

If you have ever wondered how pricing strategies can help sell your home, here are a few options on which approach might be best suited for your home sale.

Pricing Below Market Value

A lower pricing strategy, usually 10% below market value, is designed to create lots of interest, which could create a bidding war. 

When a seller receives multiple offers, it gives them room to negotiate conditions, terms, as well as price. Because this pricing strategy attracts a large number of buyers, it is typically coupled with a deadline for offers that could get a home sold within a short amount of time. 

This type of strategy is typically used to get buyers excited about the home. The more excited buyers are, the more likely they will want to buy. 

Keep in mind that you are not obligated to accept an offer that you do not find acceptable. If a buyer is not willing to negotiate, and you do not like their terms, and /or price, you can always reject their offer.

Pricing at Market Value

Pricing a home at market value may not get as many buyers through the door as a below market strategy, however, when a home is priced right, it will generate an offer or possibly multiple offers. When sellers have multiple offers in hand they can negotiate favorable terms that align with their desired outcome in terms of price, conditions, and sale date.

This type of strategy does generate excitement, but it may not create the kind of frenzy, a below market pricing strategy tends to generate. Because there is less excitement it may not create a bidding war, but that does not mean this is not a good pricing strategy.

A seller determines how much to sell their home for, they may not feel comfortable pricing their home 10% below market value. There are multiple risks involved when pricing your home below market value and there is no guarantee a seller will get multiple offers.

Because of the risks, a seller may want to price the home to sell at market value instead of pricing their home below market value.

Pricing Above Market Value

There are times when pricing your home above market value is the best pricing strategy for selling your home. Some instances when you may want to consider using this strategy are when your home is in a highly desirable location, it is bigger than homes in the area, or has the best view in your neighborhood, to name a few.

If your home has features that are significant, and unique that add value, you may decide to price it higher.

A common assumption is that the seller determines what a property is worth, but that is not correct. Buyers are the ones who determine the value of a house and how much a buyer is willing to pay for a home ultimately determines its worth.

That is why sellers get less or more than what they list their properties for and it is simply because a buyer did not think the property was worth the sales price or a buyer thought the property was worth more than the sales price.

Keeping in mind that the buyer determines the worth you should always consult a good real estate agent to put together an analysis of sold properties in your area, this analysis is called a Comparable Market Analysis. 

This report provides you with the most recent home sales in your area. Typically the report includes homes similar to your own that sold within a certain radius of yours. This will give you a better perspective on what price your home could be sold for. 

A good agent will also provide you with a picture of the sales process using the three different pricing strategies.

Weigh the pros and cons of each strategy and consider which strategy is best suited for you and your family.

 
 
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East Bay Weekly Events

East Bay, are you looking to start the week off with a fun workout? 🕺💪

Maintain good physical and mental health while having fun.

The local events are listed below. ⬇️🔍

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

March 3- March 9

 
 

East Bay, are you looking to start the week off with a fun workout? 🕺💪

Maintain good physical and mental health while having fun.

The local events are listed below. ⬇️🔍

 
 

Friday 03/03 

9:00 AM Alameda County Fair SCRAPBOOK EXPO GENERAL PARKING

1:00 PM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

12:30 PM Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters

3:00 PM Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix 

3:00 PM Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

3:30 PM Oakland Public Library LEGO Club

4:30 PM Berkeley Public Library Leamos autoras: club de lectura en español

6:00 PM Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: THE SCIENCE OF COLOR

7:30 PM Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8:00 PM  Comedy Oakland Live - Friday

Saturday 03/04 

7:00 AM Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

9:00 AM Alameda County Fair SCRAPBOOK EXPO GENERAL PARKING

10:00 AM Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central

11:00 AM Oakland Public Library Paws to Read 

11:00 AM Berkeley Public Library Bike Theft Prevention Workshop

1:00 PM Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting

2:00 PM Oakland Public Library Off the Hook - Crochet and Knitting Club

3:00 PM Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

3:00 PM Berkeley Public Library Magical Moonshine Theatre: Chanticleer the Rooster @Claremont

5:00 PM Oakland Zoo Glowfari

7:30 PM Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

Sunday 03/05 

9:30 AM Oakland Zoo Little Vets

9:00 AM Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10:00 AM Camron-Stanford House Artist Reception: Oakland the Beautiful

3:00 PM Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

3:00 PM Oakland Public Library Help for Renters

Monday 03/06 

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - ¡Baila Conmigo!

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

12:00 PM Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @Claremont

3:00 PM Oakland Public Library Teen Tabletop Gaming @ Montclair

Tuesday 03/07 

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates Multi-Pass

11:45 AM Oakland Public Library Baby Bounce

4:00 PM Oakland Public Library Intergenerational Origami Workshop Series 

Wednesday 03/08 

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10:00 AM Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30 AM Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue 

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

1:00 PM Oakland Public Library Utility Bill Assistance with Spectrum Community Services

2:00 PM Oakland Public Library Teen DJ Radio Hour 

6:30 PM Oakland Public Library Berkeley Rep Docent Talk: Cambodian Rock Band 

Thursday 03/09 

3:00 PM Oakland Public Library Button Making 

7:00 PM Berkeley Public Library Virtual Parent Workshop w/ Cory Silverberg & Dr. Bianca I Laureano 

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Cooking




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Simone Spotlight | Preparing for Spring - Home Cleaning & Maintenance

The East Bay is its own slice of paradise and because NorCal weather is as unique as the people who enjoy it, spring cleaning and maintenance are not the same here as in other parts of the country.

Here is a checklist of areas that may need maintenance that you can quickly and efficiently get done so you can enjoy that East Bay Life!

 

Tips for Spring Cleaning & Maintenance in

the East Bay

February 27th

The East Bay is its own slice of paradise and because NorCal weather is as unique as the people who enjoy it, spring cleaning and maintenance are not the same here as in other parts of the country.

Here is a checklist of areas that may need maintenance that you can quickly and efficiently get done so you can enjoy that East Bay Life!

1. DECLUTTER YOUR HOUSE & GARAGE

Having a fresh home by decluttering interior and exterior spaces will not only revitalize your environment, but it will also allow for better air circulation.

Move furniture, rugs, or appliances that are blocking air vents. Take a couple of hours and assess everything being stored in closets or your garage.

Go through each room and get rid of any items you no longer use or need, if there are any appliances, furniture, clothes, or old home décor items you don’t have room for, now is the perfect time to let them go. It can be helpful to set up two bags: one for donations and one for trash/recycling. You can also sell items in good condition, and dispose of anything that is broken or beyond repair.

 2. deep clean

Once you've decluttered, it's time to deep clean. This includes washing windows, scrubbing floors, cleaning carpets, dusting and wiping down surfaces, and sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens.

3. GIVE YOUR AC UNIT SOME LOVE

Check filters for clogs and debris that can lower the air quality in your home. Thoroughly clean ducts and vents and replace filters so the air can easily pass through your unit and efficiently cool your home. Spring is a great marker for changing the interior filters and also having a qualified contractor clean and service the outside unit of the air conditioning system. Clean coils and clear filters may allow you to lower your energy consumption by up to 15% and keep the system working at peak performance levels.

4. CONSIDER UPGRADES

As part of your interior spring cleaning, this might be the time to consider leveling up to more energy-efficient options throughout your home. Heating and cooling systems are huge energy consumers, along with appliances like refrigerators and clothes dryers that use a lot of power.

Installing a programmable thermostat and sensors can allow you to adjust your settings based on if you are home or away, which could potentially help you save up to 10% a year on energy costs. Swapping certain appliances out for ones with energy-saving settings or the ENERGY STAR stamp of approval.

5. SPRUCE UP OUTDOOR SPACES

The first place to start when you’re outdoor spring cleaning is with the basics: washing, wiping, and sweeping. Wash the front door and trim off any dust and grime, clean off outdoor light fixtures, and replace light bulbs. Check the gutters and remove any leaves and debris. Sweep and power wash patios, decks, balconies, and outdoor furniture to prep for that quintessential California outdoor dining and entertaining. As we mentioned in our blog post about sought-after home features, outdoor areas are one of the most coveted so it’s worth all the extra effort to keep it tip top.

6. RESEAL & REPAIR EXTERIOR WOODWORK

Now is also the time to see if any of the woodwork in your home needs repairs. Wood decks, fences, railings, walkways, and other structures will last longer and stay in better condition if they’re stained or resealed every year or two. Before resealing, give your deck a good power wash if it’s pressure-treated wood or a quick scrub and rinse for composite boards. If you need some extra assistance, local woodworkers like The Wood Doctors can do small touch ups to big repairs!

7. TRIM, TWEAK & SOW PLANTS

Spring lawn maintenance is a perfect time to review and revamp your current outdoor situation. Fix loose stonework along walkways and beds, and consider aerating and fertilizing your lawn. Trim back any shrubs or trees so they can have a fresh start while planning and preparing any new garden beds or planters. By April, the soil temperature is ideal for germinating all kinds of seeds and getting transplants growing well so use March as a well worth preparation phase.

Spring cleaning your home thoroughly may never become effortless, but you can make this annual rite of passage satisfying by knowing the pleasure that comes after the work is done. One day or weekend typically doesn’t do the trick, so create a realistic schedule and focus on one task at a time. Enlist the help of others! Print out Martha Stewart’s interior checklist and assign each task to a different friend or family member. The extra love and attention you put into your home will come back tenfold!

 
 
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Market Report | February 2023

Hi East Bay!

Check out the latest market report for the most current and up-to-date information on the local market, sales, and real estate trends. If you have any questions feel free to contact the Simone Koga Group!

Market Report | February 2023

February 24th

February 2023 | Market Report marketingcenter-sfbayarea-oaklandberkeleywinecountry
 
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East Bay Weekly Events

Trying to unwind and have fun❓

We got you! East Bay's weekly events are listed below⬇️

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

February 24- March 2

 
 

Trying to unwind and have fun❓

We got you! East Bay's weekly events are listed below⬇️

 
 

Friday 02/24

9am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Inside Oakland

10am Alameda County Fair The Fly Fishing Show

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Urban Sketching @4th Street

2pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Mock Citizenship Interview

3pm Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

4:30pm Berkeley Public Library Leamos autoras: club de lectura en español (programa híbrido)

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID | DESTINY ARTS CENTER DANCE PERFORMANCE; GALLERY POP-UP TALKS; DJ BLACK AND MC AÏMA THE DREAMER

5pm Oakland Museum of California OAKLAND ZOO MEMBERS MONTH

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

Saturday 02/25

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

9am Eventbrite Red Cross Lifeguard Training Combo Class

9am Alameda County Fair The Fly Fishing Show

10am Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central (Registration required)

11am Berkeley Public Library Family Drumming with Tacuma King @North

11am Oakland Public Library Crafty Saturdays

1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting

2:30pm Oakland Public Library Creative Reuse: Weaving (part 2)

3pm Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

3pm Oakland Public Library Black Film Guild Workshop

3pm Oakland Public Library Eritrean Coffee Ceremony and Circle Talk

5pm Oakland Museum of California OAKLAND ZOO MEMBERS MONTH

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

Sunday 02/26

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

9am Alameda County Fair The Fly Fishing Show

10am Camron-Stanford "Oakland the Beautiful" A Community Art Show at Camron-Stanford House

12:30pm Comedy Oakland The 6th annual Black Joy Parade

1pm Oakland Museum of California A CASE FOR REPARATIONS

3pm Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

5pm Oakland Museum of California OAKLAND ZOO MEMBERS MONTH

6pm Eventbrite Red Cross Lifeguard Training Combo Class

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST GLANCE: MEMBER TELESCOPE VIEWING

Monday 02/27

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - ¡Baila Conmigo!

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

12pm Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @Claremont

3pm Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

Tuesday 02/28

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates Multi-Pass

2pm Oakland Public Library Resistance and the Preservation of African Cultural Traditions: Remembering the Geechees as Black Warriors in the Three Seminole Wars

3pm Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

3pm Berkeley Public Library Sweetheart Crafternoons @Claremont

Wednesday 03/01 

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10:00 AM Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11:00 AM Berkeley Public Library Stay & Play @North

2:00 PM Oakland Public Library Afterschool Crafts | Manualidades después de clase

2:00 PM Berkeley Public Library Teen Hangout @Claremont

3:00 PM Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

5:00 PM Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6:00 PM Oakland Public Library Father Circle

Thursday 03/02 

8:30 AM Oakland Chamber of Commerce 2023 Economic Development Summit

9:00 AM The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

10:00 AM The Good Life Stress Busters!

10:15 AM Oakland Public Library Toddler Storytime

11:00 AM The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

3:00 PM Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

3:30 PM Berkeley Public Library Read to a Dog @North

4:00 PM Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Main TeenZone

4:00 PM Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Bibliotec

5:00 PM Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6:00 PM Oakland Public Library We Bike Book Club

7:00 PM Montclair Village Montclair Neighborhood Council /Montclair Organized Neighborhood Leaders Monthly Public Meeting


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Simone Spotlight | Selling & Buying at the Same Time

Hey, East Bay things can get complicated when you’re trying to sell your house and buy your next place at the same time!

The process of buying and selling simultaneously can be stressful, particularly if you need the money from the sale of your current home to put toward your new one. That is why today’s blog focuses on steps you can take to make a seamless transition from one home to the next.

 

Selling & Buying at the Same Time

February 20th

 
 

Selling & Buying at the Same Time

Things can get complicated when you’re trying to sell your house and buy your next place at the same time. The process of buying and selling simultaneously can be stressful, particularly if you need the money from the sale of your current home to put toward your new one.

In a perfect world, your next house would be ready and waiting as soon as you turn over the keys to your previous one. But of course, the world is not perfect, and the timing between selling one home and buying the next does not always line up the way you want it to. Take heart, though, because a little planning and working with a savvy real estate agent can help make both transactions run more smoothly.

Here are five key topics to consider, with handy tips to manage the process — and keep your sanity intact.

1. Partners: Assemble a team of pros

Given all the steps and paperwork involved in selling and buying a home at the same time, you’ll want seasoned professionals guiding you through the process. Hiring a skilled real estate agent can give you a realistic estimate of home prices in your area and how to price your current home. Using that figure, you can calculate how much equity you have and what your net proceeds will look like, so you can apply that money toward the down payment and closing costs of your new home.

2. Money: Consider your financial position

Ideally, you’d be able to have concurrent closings, selling your home in the morning and closing on your next place that afternoon — or at least within a few days. But what if things don’t go according to plan? You could suddenly find yourself without the necessary funds to close on your new home or wind up paying two mortgages for an extended period of time. Worst-case scenario, you may be unable to get final approval for a mortgage and potentially lose your next home.

If you don’t have the means to handle two mortgages simultaneously, you might want to include a contingency in your real estate contract that gives you an escape route should the sale of your current home fall through. You may also consider adding a financing contingency, in case your new loan approval hinges on selling your current home. Such contingencies are fairly common, and a good agent will be able to help you negotiate and get them written into the purchase and sales agreement you sign with the seller.

3. Market: Does it favor buyers or sellers?

When trying to buy and sell a home simultaneously, a lot depends on the conditions of your local housing market.

In a seller’s market, sellers have the upper hand. This has been the case for most of the past two years, in which the housing scene all around the country was characterized by limited inventory and bidding wars. In the second half of 2022, however, residential real estate markets have begun showing signs of cooling down, with more housing inventory available and sharply increasing mortgage rates putting a damper on sales activity.

Even in a market that favors sellers, you’ll need to make your home market-ready if you want it to bring in top dollar. But this type of market also means you can be more selective about which offers to consider and limit your options to those with fewer contingencies. If the property is priced right and staged well, it will likely sell quickly. So make sure you’re ready to move fast on buying your next place.

In a buyer’s market inventory is high and demand is low. When buyers are in the driver’s seat, it could take much longer to sell your home. In this type of market, you may want to hold off on making an offer on a home until you’ve gone into contract with a solid buyer for your current home. You may also want to include a contingency that voids the deal if the sale of your current home doesn’t go through, for peace of mind.

4. Timing: Negotiate the timeline, not just the money

Of course, you want to get the best possible price on the sale of your home, and not overpay for the next one. But consider the timing of the closing process as well when negotiating both deals. The closing date can be one of the most important details when negotiating a sale. The goal is to get both the buyer of your current home and the seller of your next home to agree to adjacent closings or any necessary contingencies. You can even arrange for back-to-back escrow, in which the proceeds from the sale go directly to the purchase of the new property.

5. Safety net: Have a backup plan

No matter how carefully you plan, surprises can occur. Things might not happen on schedule — or might fall through completely. If you have contingencies in your contract, you should be able to reschedule the closings accordingly or walk away with minimal financial pain.

It’s smart to have a backup plan just in case. Here are some options:

  • If you sell your current home but haven’t found your next place yet, you’ll need to find a short-term rental. Be sure to factor in the added expense of renting a storage unit if all your belongings won’t fit into the temp home.

  • Consider asking your buyers to do a rent-back agreement, which would allow you to remain in your current home after closing for a short time and pay rent to the new owners until you can move.

  • If you close on your new place without selling the old one first, you’ll have two mortgages to pay. To cover the costs until you’re able to sell, consider a home equity line of credit or a bridge loan over the short term. (If you do use a bridge loan, keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for making payments on it regardless of whether or when your house sells.)

  • If you’ve closed on the new dream house, move in and try renting out your old home and using the income to help offset the expense of the new place until you can sell it.

 
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East Bay Weekly Events

Live, love, and laugh, East Bay! 🙌❗❗

Do something fun this week

by attending the local events listed below. ⬇️⬇️

 

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

February 17- February 23

 
 

Live, love, and laugh, East Bay! 🙌❗❗

Do something fun this week

by attending the local events listed below. ⬇️⬇️

 
 

Friday 02/17

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Bilingual Story Time (Spanish/Español) @West

12:30pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters

2pm Eventbrite The Cleveland Street Scandal

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Forest Bathing @U.C. Campus

3pm Oakland Public Library Unique Derique

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID | BLACK HISTORY MONTH DANCE BATTLE; DJ CAVEM 

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

Saturday 02/18

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am Berkeley Public Library Ballet and Books @Central

10am Chabot Space & Science Center INVESTIGATING SPACE: OUR BIG, BRIGHT UNIVERSE

10am Alameda County Fair Norcal Reptile Expo

10:30am Oakland Public Library Black Culture Storytime

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Hands-on Rock Cycle Simulation @Central

12pm Oakland Public Library Bike Mechanics: Fix a Flat

1pm Oakland Public Library 7th Annual Authors Showcase: Gems in our Backyard

1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm Oakland Public Library Teen Advisory Board // Consejo de Adolescentes

2pm Berkeley Public Library All Your Favorite Music is (Probably) Black @West

2pm Berkeley Public Library Cross Stitch Craft Along @Claremont

3pm Oakland Public Library Teens - Asian Culture Club

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

Sunday 02/19

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Alameda County Fair Norcal Reptile Expo

10am Alameda County Fair Exotic Bird Mart & Expo

Monday 02/20

1pm Eventbrite LIVE Walk The Astronomy of Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas

Tuesday 02/21

10am Berkeley Public Library Berkeley READS Adult Literacy Drop-in Tutoring/Computer Lab

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters

3pm Berkeley Public Library Sweetheart Crafternoons @Claremont

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Teen DJ Radio Hour

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Cal Scientists Talks: Popping the Science Bubble

6:30pm Oakland Public Library Intergenerational Origami Workshop Series

Wednesday 02/22

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

2pm Berkeley Public Library Teen Hangout @Claremont

2pm Oakland Public Library Afterschool Crafts | Manualidades después de clase

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Yoga Story Time @THP South

4pm Berkeley Public Library Basic Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option)

4pm Oakland Public Library Chess Club

5pm Oakland Public Library The Reckoning: An Update & Panel Discussion on Reparation Proposals

Thursday 02/23

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time @Freight & Salvage

2pm Oakland Public Library Black Children’s Book Week

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Read to a Dog @North

4pm Berkeley Public Library Making Cross Stitch Patterns @Central

4pm Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca

6pm Oakland Museum of California SEAT AT THE TABLE: 7-COURSE DINNER IN CELEBRATION OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH

6:15pm Montclair Village MVA Board Meeting

7pm Eventbrite Investigating Mediaeval Churches







 


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