Stay Up to Date on the East Bay Market
East Bay Father's Day Guide
This weekend brings us a different kind of Father’s Day. With social distancing still in effect, and the continued closure of our usual activities, it may be a little harder to find ways to celebrate. Here are our suggestions for celebrating the great Dad in your life in the East Bay in 2020
East Bay Father’s Day Guide
This weekend brings us a different kind of Father’s Day. With social distancing still in effect, and the continued closure of our usual activities, it may be a little harder to find ways to celebrate. Here are our suggestions for celebrating the great Dad in your life in the East Bay in 2020.
Golfing
Keeping with the outdoor theme, dad might enjoy a round of golf and we’ve got some local options:
Local gift sets
If you’re looking for a special gift, there are a few local shops that could help:
Oaktown Spice Shop offers a great BBQ spice set for your grill master
Local Food Adventures also has a really awesome Beer & BBQ themed gift box
Hiking
We’re really lucky to live in an area that offers so many great trails. From easy paved strolls, to more rigorous inclined challenges, get out and explore the trails with your dad. Here are a few trails to check out:
Movie Night (drive-in)
While most may think the drive-in movie is from a by-gone era, they’re still out there, and we’re lucky to have the option to enjoy flicks on the big screen here in the East Bay:
Solano Tradewinds (Concord)
Alameda County Fair Drive-In Pop-Up
Drinks
If dad prefers to kick back with a stiff drink, we’ve got lots of East Bay shops to help you find the perfect concoction:
A SIP Success Story!
My clients were relocating overseas and needed to sell their amazing little home…
My clients were relocating overseas and needed to sell their amazing little home in Oakland's Dimond District. Their original move date shifted by a month. No problem! I had cleaners, painters, stagers, landscapers and photographers coordinated and home prep could start the day they moved out... March 16th. We got as far as cleaning and landscaping. As everyone in the Bay Area hit the pause button on normal life, I took some time to watch and analyze. There was a lot of panic and fear, but what was our market really doing?
When another comparable tiny home (under 900 square feet) in the neighborhood went under contract for $835k (Just a tad below our expectations) despite SIP, I called my sellers for a strategy session to review all their options. They ultimately needed to sell and homes were still moving. At a different pace, yes, but buyers were still out there. We decided to modify preparations (no painting and staging allowed) and list the following week. The sign went up, I blasted emails to the top agents in the area, and made some phone calls to see if I could drum up interest as we waited to go live.
We received two offers before we even hit the MLS!!! I don’t typically advise sellers to accept offers off-market, but these were excellent offers and the future is hazy. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, right? Well, two birds in the hand are worth even more! With a little more negotiation (my FAVORITE part of my job), I got my sellers TOP dollar for their home in these extraordinary times. I use a lot of different skills when I sell a home; preparation, marketing, networking, research, strategizing, to name a few. My true value as an agent is in negotiation. I get my clients the results they need so that they can get to where they want to be.
Is it time for you to make a move? Let’s talk! 415-706-1586 or email now at Simome@SimoneKoga.com so we can start planning for your future, to get you where YOU want to be!
May 2020 Alameda County Market Report
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Buying a Home- Virtually
Can you buy a house right now, in the middle of ALL of this? Watch to find out!
Can you buy a house right now
in the middle of ALL of this?
Watch the video to find out how buying virtually is very possible!
Quick Market Report May 13-19, 2020
It's that time again.
We've got your updated weekly market reports. For those who watch carefully, you'll see a huge jump in the average home prices across the board. Now just as I mentioned last week that these weekly shifts may not mean too much as the overall sample sizes are small, we shouldn't put too much stock in the jump in prices in the past week. A week or two does not a trend make
It's that time again.
We've got your updated weekly market reports. For those who watch carefully, you'll see a huge jump in the average home prices across the board. Now just as I mentioned last week that these weekly shifts may not mean too much as the overall sample sizes are small, we shouldn't put too much stock in the jump in prices in the past week. A week or two does not a trend make, but if we continue to see numbers holding steady for several weeks we can feel more confident in knowing which direction we're going. Keep your finger on the pulse of the market by following along every week. If you have questions about how your home or neighborhood, reach out to me for a customized report!
May 2020 East Bay Market Report
Market activity begins to tick up after severe shelter-in-place plunge. Median home sales prices are up. Interest rates hit new low.
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Quick Market Report May 6-12, 2020
The average sales price in Oakland dropped this week from to $805k, while the average price across Alameda county jumped up from $973k to $1.03M. With only 27 sales in Oakland, the numbers can shift rather drastically if there are one or two "outliers" in the group. Prices ranged from $337k to $1.475m. While watching overall trends is important, you also want to pay attention to the market segment that you're most interested in.
Here is our quick Market Update for the week.
The average sales price in Oakland dropped this week from $995k to $805k, while the average price across Alameda county jumped up from $973k to $1.03M. With only 27 sales in Oakland, the numbers can shift rather drastically if there are one or two "outliers" in the group. Prices ranged from $337k to $1.475m. While watching overall trends is important, you also want to pay attention to the market segment that you're most interested in. Are you looking to buy a 3bd house in Rockridge, sell your 1 bedroom condo in West Oakland, or refinance a duplex in Northbrae? Each of those market segments are seeing different realities right now. Curious how the market will affect your plans for the future? Message me! I'm happy to look over your specific circumstances and help you strategize and get you where you want to be!
Curious how the market will affect your plans for the future?
Message me!
I'm happy to look over your specific circumstances and help you strategize and get you where you want to be!
Quick Market Report, April 29-May 5 2020
Here is your weekly market update for 4/29/2020-5/5/2020. I’ve decided to include Piedmont in the City updates as well, though keep in mind that Piedmont, along with Berkeley only closed 1 sale each this past week so the average is simply reflecting one sale.
Here is your weekly market update for the week. I’ve decided to include Piedmont in the City updates as well, though keep in mind that Piedmont, along with Berkeley only closed 1 sale each this past week so the average is simply reflecting one sale.
East Bay Mother's Day Gift Guide
In case you hadn't realized in your isolation hibernation, Mother’s Day is next Sunday, May 9th! If you haven’t yet thought of something for the special mamas in your life, here are a few ideas. Bonus, a lot of these support our local businesses here in the East Bay too!
In case you hadn't realized in your isolation hibernation, Mother’s Day is next Sunday May 10th! If you haven’t yet thought of something for the special mamas in your life, here are a few ideas. Bonus, a lot of these support our local businesses here in the East Bay too!
Salons and Spa Gift Cards
Let’s face it, lots of moms are living outside of their comfort zone right now with their usual beauty maintenance routines fully halted. While we may not know when it will be safe to resume our mani-pedis, cuts, color, massages, etc. I do think it’s safe to assume a lot of moms would love to have those services lined up and ready to go on day one of freedom. Buying a gift card now can ensure her favorite business is there for her when it’s time to get her glam on again.
Mother’s Day Dinner
While you may not be able to head out for your typical Mother's Day meal, there's no reason you couldn't get a delish dinner for mom. Lot's of East Bay restaurants are still open for take-out or delivery. A few of my top picks:
Wine
If the mom in your life is a fan of great wine, there are lots of local shops offering curbside pickup, and many would be happy to take your call and help you pick out the perfect bottle (or two!).
Flowers
Since mom has likely been spending a lot of time indoors, why not help her brighten up her space with a bouquet from a local florist? Fresh designs can be picked up from some of my favorites.
Esscents of Flowers
The Bloom Generation
Floral Construction Co
Ash + Oak
Sweets and Treats from Local Bakery
Does mom have a sweet tooth? There are several local bakeries that offer curbside pickup of yummy goods that any mom would love to nibble throughout her day.
Updated Showing Guidelines during Shelter In Place
Along with the extension of the shelter in place orders for the State of California through May 31st, the Alameda County Health Department eased some restrictions for various essential industries, including real estate. We’ve updated our policy for showing homes to reflect these changes.
With the extension of the shelter in place orders for the State of California through May 31st, the Alameda County Health Department eased some restrictions for various essential industries, including real estate. We’ve updated our policy for showing homes to reflect these changes.
Open Houses can only take place virtually
Buyers interested in a property should review all available materials before scheduling any additional showings
Virtual showing are conducted by agent walking through the property on a video conferencing platform (Zoom, Hangouts, FaceTime, etc.) by appointment
If a virtual showing does not suffice, we can request an appointment time with the listing agent, complete a PEAD waiver and await the seller’s permission to allow an in-person showing
Each seller can ultimately determine what restrictions they want in place for allowing access to their homes. It is not unusual for sellers to request proof of funds, signed off disclosure forms, and sometimes even a purchase contract before allowing a showing
In person showings are limited to two people who share a household per appointment
Anyone who enters a home must observe current wear a mask, minimize their interaction with surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, etc.) and sanitize their hands frequently.
As with everything else right now, guidelines can change rapidly and best practices are always being updated. If you’re interested in looking for a home right now, I’m happy to help you navigate the ever-changing process.
Is it time for you to move? Call me to set up a strategy session today, 415-706-1586
Showing Homes in a COVID-19 World
Wait….People are still buying and selling homes?
You bet! While the overall number of transactions has decreased quite a bit, there are still many buyers and sellers eager to find each other. Real estate has been deemed an essential service and it’s possible to do the bulk of a transaction online these days, even before COVID-19 became a part of our lexicon.
I just closed on a darling little home in Oakland’s Dimond District. While we had grand plans for painting, staging and preparing the home, we found ourselves in the midst of a serious pandemic where a shelter in place orders went into effect before any of that could be done. Despite the current extraordinary circumstances, that great home received multiple offers and ultimately closed, all during shelter in place.
Wait….People are still buying and selling homes?
You bet! While the overall number of transactions has decreased quite a bit, there are still many buyers and sellers eager to find each other. Real estate has been deemed an essential service and it’s possible to do the bulk of a transaction online these days, even before COVID-19 became a part of our lexicon.
But what does a Shelter In Place transaction actually look like?
The current shelter in place orders as interpreted by the Alameda County Health Department allow for virtual showings of property and in the event a virtual showing is not feasible an agent and up to two other people may go view a home together, while following some pretty strict protocols.
Now what does “Not Feasible” really mean? There isn’t any further guidance from on high for that but I believe that if you have exhausted all other viewing forms and are still unable to investigate a home to the level you feel is necessary, then an in person showing may be warranted.
So here are the bullet points of shelter in place showing guidelines
Open Houses can only take place virtually
Buyers interested in a property should review all available materials before scheduling any additional showings
Showings can only be done for vacant homes
I may conduct a virtual showing for buyers where I will walk-through the property while on a video conferencing platform (Zoom, Hangouts, FaceTime, etc.)
If a virtual showing does not suffice, we can request an appointment time with the listing agent, complete a PEAD waiver and await the seller’s permission to allow an in-person showing
Each seller can ultimately determine what restrictions they want in place for allowing access to their homes. It is not unusual for sellers to request proof of funds, signed off disclosure forms, and sometimes even a purchase contract before allowing a showing
In person showings are limited to two people who share a household per appointment
Anyone who enters a home must observe current PPE guidelines, minimize their interaction with surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, etc.) and sanitize their hands frequently.
As with everything else right now, guidelines can change rapidly and best practices are always being updated. If you’re interested in looking for a home right now, I’m happy to help you navigate the ever-changing process.
Is it time for you to move? Call me to set up a strategy session today, 415-706-1586
Quick Market Update, April 15-22 2020
Here's your weekly market update.
Curious about what these numbers mean for you and your situation? Want to know details about your specific neighborhood? Reach out to me at simone@simonekoga.com
April 2020 East Bay Market Report
This report will look at the effects of the crisis on supply and demand by reviewing week by week statistics through April 19. The spring selling season is usually the most active of the year and…
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Yuzu Ramen and Broffee
We recently had a rare night out and I asked my husband what he was in the mood for. “Ramen” was the reply, and I knew exactly where we needed to go.
We recently had a rare night out and I asked my husband what he was in the mood for. “Ramen” was the reply, and I knew exactly where we needed to go. There are plenty of places to grab a good bowl of Ramen in the East Bay, but my absolute favorite has to be Yuzu. Famous for the terrific broths that underly all of their noodle dishes, Yuzu never disappoints.
With a focused menu of four basic ramen bowls (pork, beef, miso and veg), this hot spot truly embodies the concept of mastering your niche. I’ll be honest, I’ve never been lucky enough to try the beef based bowl (limited supply each day), but I’m such a fan of the miso and tonkatsu ramen bowls. Each is hearty in a way that leaves you fully satisfied without feeling overfull and heavy. They also offer an amazing chicken wing platter that I strongly recommend.
Now, you might be asking yourself, “What on earth is Broffee”. So glad you asked. Yuzu has bottled up their magical bone broth and can serve you up some in a to-go coffee cup, or even a larger take home jar. It’s amazing as a base for your own soups, stews, and dishes, but its awesome for sipping just on its own too. During my last pregnancy, I had a hard time holding down solid foods, but was so sick of sipping sweet drinks, and water tasted funny to me. Yuzu’s lower sodium formulation of Broffee literally kept me and my little dude hydrated until we were able to get back to solids.
Whether you’re gestating or not, you’ll definitely want to stop by Yuzu Ramand & Broffee in Emeryville for your own taste of perfection.
You will not be disappointed!
Your East Bay Events
March 6-12, 2020
Hey East Bay!
Here’s your weekly list of fun, upcoming events! This week we've got another ️⚽️Oakland Roots ️⚽️soccer game at Laney College. I couldn't make last week's game because of the kids but am psyched to attend this weekend. Come cheer on the home team!
March 6-12
brought to you by That East Bay Life
Hey East Bay!
Here’s your weekly list of fun, upcoming events! This week we've got another ️⚽️Oakland Roots ️⚽️soccer game at Laney College. I couldn't make last week's game because of the kids but am psyched to attend this weekend. Come cheer on the home team!
It's First Friday again so head to Telegraph to soak in the immersive art and enjoy the quintessential Oakland community experience! We've also got the 13th St Block Party on Saturday to enjoy.
Never miss a thing in the East Bay, to get a list of events emailed weekly sign up for our weekly newsletter.
March Quick Market Update
We had quite the month, East Bay! The Real Estate market saw slow but steady growth at the tail end of the winter. Take a look at our March update (reflecting February sales). Homes are starting to pop on the market in greater numbers, kicking off our Spring Selling Season.
We had quite the month, East Bay! The Real Estate market saw slow but steady growth at the tail end of the winter. Take a look at our March update (reflecting February sales).
Homes are starting to pop on the market in greater numbers, kicking off our Spring Selling Season.
Curious about a particular neighborhood not listed here? Shoot me a message and I can get you a report.
Wondering how your home’s value is doing? Get a free instant valuation report.
Family Hot Spot Fairyland
Here's the scoop. Fairyland is a god-send for parents of young children with insane amounts of energy. If, like me, you're woken bright and early (come on, it's 6 am!) on a Sunday morning by a rousing rendition of “Let it Go” on repeat and wonder, “How are we going to tire this munchkin out today?” Put Fairyland on your family to-do list. Yesterday.
This week I’m taking you to one of my family’s favorite spots in Oakland, Fairyland!
Here's the scoop. Fairyland is a god-send for parents of young children with insane amounts of energy. If, like me, you're woken bright and early (come on, it's 6 am!) on a Sunday morning by a rousing rendition of “Let it Go” on repeat and wonder, “How are we going to tire this munchkin out today?” Put Fairyland on your family to-do list. Yesterday.
Let's start with the practical. The park is fully fenced in. There is one way in and out, and it's staffed by a cheerful park employee. If your little one scuttles out of sight, you don't have to panic; they're contained, and they're safe. Adults can only enter when accompanied by a child. While that might not necessarily keep every creep out, it certainly is a barrier for those with less than innocent intentions.
Once you're in, there's so much to see and do. Ideally suited for toddlers through kindergarteners, there are many attractions to keep young kids entertained. Think bubble machine, sliding hill, carousels, train ride, and Ferris wheel. They can walk through their favorite nursery rhymes and fairy tales. They can see farm animals up close or take in a puppet show (Orca the First Whale is the current production). Bring snacks from home, or grab some basic grub at Johnny Appleseed's cafe. There's plenty of space to spread out on picnic tables or grassy areas to refuel little bellies.
Best of all, the park is filled with parents and kids just like you. No one bats an eyelash if your kid goes from zany to over-tired in two seconds flat then throws themselves to the ground in a full-on meltdown (can you feel that I'm writing from experience on this one?). Forgot your wipes? No sweat, a friendly parent will undoubtedly share a few. I've been on both ends of small transactions that remind me that I'm not alone on this crazy parenting journey. We're all showing up and doing the best we can by our kiddos.
Sure the character designs may be a bit outdated, but that's the charm. You can feel that generations of children have passed through these same landscapes and felt free and happy. What's more, little kids don't care. The world is a big space that they don't always fit into, but here, everything is designed with them in mind (even the potties!). It's their magical world, and we get to watch them discover and enjoy it. And that's where we find our own magic, isn't it?
Established in 1948, this tiny amusement park is located on the north side of Lake Merritt with its entrance just off of Grand Ave. Entry is restricted to adults accompanied by children only. Admission is an even $12 for guests ages 1-99, and there are varying levels of membership for repeat visitors too.
For more information visit Fairyland.org
Your East Bay Events
Hey East Bay! Here’s your weekly list of fun, upcoming events! This week I'm excited to attend my first ️⚽️Oakland Roots ️⚽️soccer game at Laney College. Come cheer on the home team! Don't forget that the first Sunday of the month brings the Alameda Pointe Antiques Faire, The Indigenous Red Market and Free admission to the Oakland Museum of CA.
February 28-March 5
brought to you by That East Bay Life
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2/29
Oakland Roots vs Chattanooga
Come cheer on our home soccer heroes as they play their first home game in 2020. My family and I will be there and hope to see you too!
Best of the Bay Step Show
Kitchen Story
I had the pleasure of sitting down at Kitchen Story this week for lunch with a colleague and am happy to feature it as this week's Hotspot. Kitchen Story is the newest restaurant to open up on College Ave. in the Rockridge neighborhood of Oakland.
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Your East Bay Events
Hey East Bay! Here’s your weekly list of fun, upcoming events! This week we have two amazing festivals. The Laurel Lunar New Year Celebration will be taking place on Saturday, and the 3rd Annual Black Joy Parade takes place Sunday. Never miss a thing in Oakland, Berkeley and the East Bay. Like our page and stay in the know on events hotspots and more!
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