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

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.

East Bay Weekly Events

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

East Bay Weekly Events

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

March 2023 | Market Report

Simone Koga Group Realtor® | DRE #: 01897985 | www.SimoneKoga.com M: 415.706.1586 @ThatEastBayLife Simone@SimoneKoga.com

Statistics are generalities, essentially summaries of widely disparate data generated by dozens, hundreds or thousands of unique, individual sales occurring within different time periods. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators, with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, especially in smaller, expensive market segments. Last period data should be considered estimates that may change with late-reported data. Different analytics programs sometimes define statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: what is most meaningful are not specific calculations but the trends they illustrate. Most listing and sales data derives from the local or regional multi-listing service (MLS) of the area specified in the analysis, but not all listings or sales are reported to MLS and these won't be reflected in the data. "Homes" signifies real-property, single-household housing units: houses, condos, co-ops, townhouses, duets and TICs (but not mobile homes), as applicable to each market. City/town names refer specifically to the named cities and towns, or their MLS areas, unless otherwise delineated. Multi­county metro areas will be specified as such. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate. Many aspects of value cannot be adequately reflected in median and average statistics: curb appeal, age, condition, amenities, views, lot size, quality of outdoor space, "bonus" rooms, additional parking, quality of location within the neighborhood, and so on. How any of these statistics apply to any particular home is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

marketingcenter-sfbayarea-oaklandberkeleywinecountry

Simone Spotlight | Creating a Safety Plan for Your Family

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.

Simone Spotlight | Pricing Strategies to Consider When Selling Your Home

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.

East Bay Weekly Events

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

Simone Spotlight | Preparing for Spring - Home Cleaning & Maintenance

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!

Market Report | February 2023

Market Report | February 2023

February 24th

Simone Koga Group

Simone Koga Group Realtor® | DRE #: 01897985 | www.SimoneKoga.com M: 415.706.1586 @ThatEastBayLife Simone@SimoneKoga.com

Statistics are generalities, essentially summaries of widely disparate data generated by dozens, hundreds or thousands of unique, individual sales occurring within different time periods. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators, with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, especially in smaller, expensive market segments. Last period data should be considered estimates that may change with late-reported data. Different analytics programs sometimes define statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: what is most meaningful are not specific calculations but the trends they illustrate. Most listing and sales data derives from the local or regional multi-listing service (MLS) of the area specified in the analysis, but not all listings or sales are reported to MLS and these won't be reflected in the data. "Homes" signifies real-property, single-household housing units: houses, condos, co-ops, townhouses, duets and TICs (but not mobile homes), as applicable to each market. City/town names refer specifically to the named cities and towns, or their MLS areas, unless otherwise delineated. Multi­county metro areas will be specified as such. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate. Many aspects of value cannot be adequately reflected in median and average statistics: curb appeal, age, condition, amenities, views, lot size, quality of outdoor space, "bonus" rooms, additional parking, quality of location within the neighborhood, and so on. How any of these statistics apply to any particular home is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

marketingcenter-sfbayarea-oaklandberkeleywinecountry

East Bay Weekly Events

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

Simone Spotlight | Selling & Buying at the Same Time

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.

East Bay Weekly Events

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

Simone Spotlight | The East Bay Neighborhoods Pt. 1 of 3

Finding the Right Neighborhood for Your Family - A Guide to The East Bay’s Communities

February 13TH

The 31 neighborhoods that make up the East Bay each differ in what they offer their residents. Although they are different, no area is better than the other.

Selecting which East Bay neighborhood best fits your needs, wants, quality of life, and lifestyle is a very personal decision, and to help you with your research is a list of 11 out of the 31 East Bay neighborhoods and their notable features.

*The 20 remaining neighborhoods will be featured in two future blogs.

Oakland

Oakland is one of the most desirable cities in the entire Bay Area, and professionals with careers based in San Francisco are moving to Oakland for more than just rent control. “The Town” is full of local art, and culturally diverse cuisine, and has the perfect mix of that urban city life and calm suburbia.

“The Town” has welcomed growth and offers an appealing mix of brand-new housing options and charming single-family homes in walkable neighborhoods with access to BART. The burgeoning restaurant scene, numerous BART stations, annual cultural festivals, music venues, and local pride just add to Oakland’s growing appeal.

ADAMS POINT

Adams Point is situated just East of Uptown Oakland and North of Lake Merritt. This neighborhood offers all of the conveniences of living Downtown but is more family-friendly with great access to locally-owned cafes, restaurants, Oakland's parks playgrounds, and BART.

Despite its reputation as a hipster neighborhood, many young families here meet up with their kids at parks and community events and parks in the area. Three playgrounds, including the newly renovated Snow Park, are within a 20-minute walk; and Lake Merritt, the “crown jewel” of Oakland, provides Adams Point residents with three-plus miles of continuous waterfront access.

TEMESCAL

Situated just north of downtown Oakland near MacArthur BART Station, Temescal is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the City. You’ll find great restaurants down Temescal’s main drag, Telegraph Ave. but don’t forget to stop off in Temescal Alley where you can find an eclectic mix of local clothing boutiques and plant shops and a classic walk-in-only barbershop.

UPTOWN/DOWNTOWN

Oakland’s Uptown neighborhood has changed dramatically over the past decade. Oakland has taken a pro-development stance and multiple new high-rise builds now mix in with renovated warehouse lofts, indie boutiques, beer gardens, and treasured Art Deco event venues (Fox and Broadway Theaters) conveniently located within a ten-minute walk of the 19th Street BART station.

The Uptown is a mural-enhanced arts, entertainment, and foodie hub that’s only a 15-minute BART ride to SF’s FiDi and a 15-minute walk to Lake Merritt, Oakland’s recreational jewel.

Both the Uptown and Downtown neighborhoods in Oakland are among the few Bay Area neighborhoods where residents may easily live without a car. The 12th Street BART Station and the 12-block “City Center” are downtown Oakland's heart.

ROCKRIDGE

Rockridge is conveniently centered around Rockridge BART Station and College Avenue. Once a sleepy collection of cottage-style homes and bungalows with residents who preferred the quiet life, Rockridge has evolved into one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Oakland for a variety of reasons.

It’s a prime example of an urban-suburban mix that offers fine dining options, and an environment of cafes, groceries, and local bookstores. College Avenue is peppered with cafes specialty shoe stores, vintage clothing jewelry, and home decor boutiques. It also boasts several options for grocery shopping easily accessible to residents.

ALAMEDA

An island situated just off the shore south of Oakland is accessible by bridge, tunnel, and ferry, with the same family-friendly feel as parts of Oakland, without the price tag. This island city attracts many young families for its small-town vibe, beach areas (yes, beaches!), dog-friendly parks along the shore, good quality schools, and a safe and charming downtown.

Many professionals choose to live here and commute to SF via ferry, express bus, BART (via a bus transfer), or car. Any way you travel, you can usually get to the City within 25 minutes. Alameda has sweeping views of the SF skyline from the shoreline areas. There are many locally-owned restaurants, a weekend farmer’s market, and celebrated local breweries and distilleries from repurposed military warehouses.

BERKELEY

This medium-sized city is home to a large and diverse population of students, university staff and professors, families, and young professionals. The community has a deep love of the arts. There are multiple farmers' markets, a great network of libraries, and resources available in the city.

Notable features of this city are its unique historic buildings that are rich in architecture, its robust bus system served by AC Transit, and shuttles, and its extremely bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly street network. However, Berkeley’s best feature is the one it is famous for, it has a multitude of farm-to-table restaurants.

LAFAYETTE & Orinda

Lafayette and Orinda are renowned for their excellent schools, rolling hills, and quiet, peaceful residential neighborhoods. These towns have their own unique set of characteristics, school districts, and housing options but offer similar lifestyles and qualities of life. Orinda's town center has two sides bisected by Highway 24 and the Orinda BART Station. On one side, you’ll find a small commercial district, a community large park, a golf course, access to the San Pablo reservoir, and a recreation center. On the other side, you’ll find a cinema, local shops, restaurants, and cafes that anchor Orinda’s community.

Lafayette is also served by a BART Station but unlike Orinda, Lafayette has had better success over the years in developing housing around BART. This makes Lafayette popular for families and young professionals (those who wish to work in SF but like the slower pace of life) alike. Lafayette has a sizable, picturesque downtown with plenty of shopping, dining, and grocery stores centered along Mt. Diablo Blvd.

WALNUT CREEK

Walnut Creek is a bustling regional hub in the greater East Bay, making it a great option for those who work in San Francisco but want the quiet comfort and space of a suburban center. This large city is centrally located and offers highway and two BART connections to Oakland and San Francisco.

Walnut Creek is known for its active downtown, shopping, and dining, but the city is beloved by its residents for its quaint neighborhoods, access to parks and open space, and high-quality schools.

Piedmont

Piedmont is an incredibly desirable city. With Oakland's historic Grand Lake District to the southwest, the Montclair District to the northeast, and the Crocker Highlands and Glenview Districts to the south, Piedmont is an almost entirely residential city with a very small commercial area and precious few multi-family dwellings.

Once dubbed “the City of Millionaires,” Piedmont’s early 20th-century mansions still stand among larger, architecturally unique, and pricier homes that draw executives looking for luxury, prestige, and high-quality education for their children. These top-rated public schools have a private school feel, they are some of the highest-rated public schools in the Bay Area.

Fremont

Fremont is the fourth most populous city in the Bay and provides the easiest access by car to Silicon Valley. It also boasts a BART line and two stations (with a third on the way) into San Francisco. Fremont is so south in the East Bay that some consider it a part of Silicon Valley, and is a multicultural community rich in history and taking pride in its diversity and contributions to the Bay Area scene. Tesla and Kaiser have campuses here employing thousands of Bay Area residents.

Fremont is separated into distinct neighborhoods that offer quite different lifestyles, price points, and housing options: from the Mission Valley, Warm Springs, and Weibel Mission Hills neighborhoods to the flatter parts of the city located near the Dumbarton bridge, so it is good to have a guide when looking for homes here.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

February 10- February 16

What’s up, East Bay! 👋

Life is too short; make it count.

Spend time with your family and friends!

The following are the local events that you can attend this week.

Friday 02/10

11am Eventbrite Cantor Arts Center reservations

11am Eventbrite Anderson Collection Reservations

12am Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests

2pm Oakland Public Library Mock Citizenship Interview

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library MOCHA Creative Art Play @Central

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

7:30pm Camron-Stanford House Salon Series: Piano Concert with Daniel Adam Maltz

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

Saturday 02/11

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

8am Eventbrite Marin Co. LGT One Day Review class

8:45am Eventbrite Chris Hotts Park Cleanup

9am Eventbrite Education Summit 2023

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

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

11am Eventbrite Cantor Arts Center reservations

11am Oakland Public Library Club de Lectura en Español / Spanish Book Club

11am Eventbrite Anderson Collection Reservations

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

12pm Oakland Public Library Bike Mechanics: Brakes

12pm Eventbrite The Bistro 23rd Double IPA Festival - 80 beers on tap at City Hall Plaza

1pm Eventbrite 9th Annual West Coast Craft Can Invitational

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center ADULT SLUMBER WITH THE STARS

7pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

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

9:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

Sunday 02/12

9am Chabot Space & Science Center ADULT SLUMBER WITH THE STARS

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

11am Eventbrite Cantor Arts Center reservations

11am Eventbrite Anderson Collection Reservations

12pm Oakland Public Library Los Amigos/Friends of the César Chávez Library

1pm Jack London Square VALENTINE'S DAY CELEBRATION

Monday 02/13

All Day Oakland Public Library Exhibit: Shrine of Broken Hearts

9am Eventbrite San Francisco Career Fair

12am Berkeley Public Library Library Closure - Lincoln's Birthday

6:30pm Camron-Stanford House Salon Series: Discovering Dracula with Dacre Stoker

Tuesday 02/14

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters

3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North **new day & time**

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Knitting Group @Central

Wednesday 02/15

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am Eventbrite BAY AREA In Person (IP) Diversity Employment Day Career Fair

12pm Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Yoga for children — 10-class series

Thursday 02/16

9am Eventbrite Berkeley EECS Annual Research Symposium (BEARS) 2023

10am Eventbrite San Francisco Job Fair February 16, 2023 - San Francisco Career Fairs

12:30pm Eventbrite 2023 State of Latino Entrepreneurship Summit

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

Simone Spotlight | Valentine 2023 Edition

Hey East Bay, Valentine's Day is quickly approaching and here are some local businesses that will help you make it a memorable day for you and your special someone!

East Bay Florists

Flor on Fourth This woman owned local business is new to the community. Maria Blum-Sullivan opened her floral business Fall of 2022. To see their custom creations go to their website below. They are currently taking Valentine's Day orders. Website: www.florberkeley.com Location: 1800 4th St, Suite A, Berkeley, CA Tel. Number: (510) 647-8000

Naho's Floral Design Naho is a Japenese floral designer that creates custom bouquets inspired by her Japanese culture. Each custom creation is unique, Naho works with her clients to create the design of their dreams. You can view her work and place an order using the website link below. Website: www.nahosfloral.com Location: 7080 Westmoorland Dr, Berkeley, CA Tel. Number: (510) 898-1701

Freshly Cut Invested in Oakland, Freshly Cut has been creating beautiful arrangements for the Oakland community for 38 years. Originally established next to the Monterey Produce Market, they have moved to a new location in Kensington. Website: www.freshlycut.com Location: 378 Colusa Avenue Kensington, CA Tel. Number: (510) 525-3751

Sweets for your Sweet

Casa de Chocolates This chocolate shop creates an extraordinary confectionary experience with its award-winning Mole bonbon, and amazing Latin American inspired flavors creating unique experiences for your tastebuds. Order now for your own Valentine's Day box. Website: www.casadechocolates.com Location: 2629 Ashby Ave. Berkeley, CA Tel. Number: (510) 859-7221

Bisou Chocolates Since 2006 Bisou chocolate makers have been grinding their own cocoa beans to make their chocolate bars. They take aim to please and provide where the cocoa beans originated from and the percentages each bar contains. They are currently taking Valentine's Day orders. Website: www.bisouchocolate.com Location: 730 29th St. Oakland, CA Tel. Number: 415-515-7039

The Xocolate Bar A Latina owned business, the owners take pride in their custom, hand crafted creations for every holiday as well as their chocolates made for day-to-day enjoyment. They create a wide variety including Vegan, Gluten free and nut free candies. They are currently taking orders for the custom holiday chocolate boxes. Website: www.thexocolatebar.com Location: 1709 Solano Ave. Berkeley, CA Tel. Number: (510) 525-9626

Lover of Paris Macaroons If your special someone is not a fan of chocolate, you can always get them these delectable treats. French macaroons a la Paris style! Website: www.loverofparismacarons.com

Dinner for Two

Belotti's A taste of Italy in Oakland. This husband and wife owned restaurant was inspired by Michele Belotti's hometown of Milan. Chef Belotti trained under culinary masters in Michelin-starred restaurants before bringing his expertise to our Oakland community. To make your Valentine's reservation use the contact information below. Website: www.belottirb.com Location: 5403 College Ave, Oakland, CA Tel. Number: (510) 788-7890

Scott's Seafood Enjoy a lovely seafood meal with an outstanding view of Oakland Harbor. Scott's Seafood is taking reservations for Valentine's Day. Website: www.scottsjls.com Location: 2 Broadway Oakland, CA Tel. Number: (510) 444-3456

A Night on the Town

Valentine's Day Cruise Enhance your Valentine’s Day experience! Explore the exclusive VIP dinner package options that will add that little extra touch to your special night. For more details about this event or two purchase tickets use the links below. Website: www.valentinesdaycruise.com Get Tickets

Valentine's Day R & B Experience Make Valentine's Day extra special by going on the R&B Experience Cruise. For more details and tickets use the links below. Website: www.valentinesdayrbcruise.com Get Tickets Wine Around the World Series | Argentina Wine Around the World Series, a one-of-a-kind multi-sensory cultural experience that travels the globe pairing wine, music, and dance, resulting in perfect harmony. For more information and to purchase tickets use the links below. Website: www.winearoundtheworld.com Get Tickets

Simone Koga Realtor® | DRE #: 01897985 | www.SimoneKoga.com M: 415.706.1586 imone@compass.com

Read More Events Simone Koga 2/2/23 Events Simone Koga 2/2/23 East Bay Weekly Events Hello there, East Bay! Make the first week of February unforgettable by attending the local events listed below. Enjoy and have fun! Your Weekly Guide to Local Events February 3- February 9 Hello there, East Bay! Make the first week of February unforgettable by attending the local events listed below. Enjoy and have fun! Friday 02/03 10am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Visit Hoover Tower 11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Cantor Arts Center reservations 11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Anderson Collection Reservations 12:30pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters 2pm Oakland Public Library It's In the Cards! 2pm Oakland Public Library Mock Citizenship Interview 4:30pm Berkeley Public Library Leamos autoras: club de lectura en español 6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: GLOW IN THE DARK 7:30 pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS 8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live  Saturday 02/04 7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea 10am Eventbrite 20th Annual Oakland Black College Expo 10am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Visit Hoover Tower 11am Berkeley Public Library Carrying Things by Bike 11am Berkeley Public Library Berkeley & Portland LGBT+ Book Club 11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Cantor Arts Center reservations 11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Anderson Collection Reservations 11am Oakland Public Library Paws to Read 12pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Chess Club 12pm Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Chávez 1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 1pm Eventbrite "SLEEPING WITH THE BISHOP" Book Signing FREE EVENT! 2pm Eventbrite Hopocalypse Day 2023 2pm Eventbrite Napa County AAUW Authors Forum 2023 2pm Oakland Public Library Crafts @ Chávez: Jewelry Workshop // Taller de Joyería 5pm Alameda County Fair Pleasanton Lions Club Fiesta Night 7pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live  7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS 9:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live  Sunday 02/05 9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market 10am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Visit Hoover Tower 11am Oakland Museum of California FIRST SUNDAYS 11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Cantor Arts Center reservations 11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Anderson Collection Reservations 3pm Eventbrite Cacao Ceremony + Sound Healing Bliss 3pm Oakland Public Library Help for Renters Monday 02/06 3pm Berkeley Public Library Benefits Lawyer in the Library @Central 3pm Berkeley Public Library Cross Stitch Craft-Along @North 7pm Eventbrite Books Inc. Presents Cassandra Clare Tuesday 02/07 12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters 3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North 3:30pm Oakland Public Library Share a little love! 4pm Oakland Public Library Intergenerational Origami Workshop Series Wednesday 02/08 10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours 10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North 11am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue 1pm Oakland Public Library Utility Bill Assistance with Spectrum Community Services 1pm Oakland Public Library Black Culture Fest: African American Health Academy 1:30pm Oakland Public Library King Branch Crafts! 2pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Arts and Crafts 3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Yoga Story Time @THP South Thursday 02/09 10:15am Oakland Public Library Play Café 3pm Oakland Public Library Shrinky Dinks 3:30pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Knitters! 4pm Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca Read More Events Simone Koga 1/30/23 Events Simone Koga 1/30/23 Simone Spotlight | How Interest Rates Affect Purchasing Power Today’s Blog is all about How Interest Rates can Affect Your Purchase Power! Get the 411 on why locking in a good rate can help you get the home you want in the neighborhood of your dreams! Know Your Purchase Power JANUARY 30TH How Interest Rates Affect Purchasing Power High-interest rates can have a number of effects on the housing market, including your ability to get approved for a mortgage, the supply of homes on the market, and home prices in general. New buyers may not be aware of how interest rates affect their purchases. Here are some ways that your home purchase can be affected by interest rates. Increased rates decrease buying power Rising mortgage rates can have a significant impact on your buying power. A 1% increase in rates can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly payment and make it difficult to qualify for a loan in the first place. As a result, you might be forced to purchase a less expensive home or wait until rates drop before entering the market. Finding a home in a lower price range means you might have to compromise and look at homes that are in a less desirable neighborhood, in need of repairs or upgrades, smaller than you planned for, or without the amenities you want If you don’t want to compromise, you can wait until the market shifts while working on your qualifications as a borrower: You might try to come up with more money for a down payment, increase your credit score or improve your debt-to-income ratio to qualify for a better mortgage. How does a 1% rate increase affect what you can afford? A slight rate increase might seem minor, but this small increase in your monthly payment can add up over time and affect your buying power. If you look at a borrower with a monthly income of $4,500 and a debt-to-income ratio of 36% who makes a 20% down payment, even a quarter of a percent increase can mean they’ll be able to afford roughly $12,000 less over the course of a fixed, 30-year mortgage. With a 1% increase, the price of a home they can afford drops by more than $45,000. If you are in an area where the average home sells for $1,000,000, and you are pre-approved for $1,000,000 a 1% increase in interest rates would lower your purchase power and put you beneath the average price for homes in your market. This could cause you to wait to buy, influence you to buy in a different neighborhood, or buy a home that needs work or does not meet your criteria. When is a good time to buy a house? Mortgage interest rates change daily, and picking the right time to buy a house depends in large part on your personal financial situation. Overall, if you can afford a mortgage with the current interest rates and you find a good deal on a house you like, now is a good time to buy a house.  If the house you want is outside of your budget because of your current finances and the market today, it might be a better idea to wait until the rates are lower or save up more money to increase your down payment. Read More Events Simone Koga 1/26/23 Events Simone Koga 1/26/23 East Bay Weekly Events What’s up, East Bay! 👋 Every week brings new fun! Make it matter by creating memories. Check this out 👇👀 Your Weekly Guide to Local Events JANUARY 27 - February 2 What’s up, East Bay! 👋 Every week brings new fun! Make it matter by creating memories. You can go to the interesting local events listed below this week. Check this out 👇👀 Friday 01/27 12am Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests 8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Inside Oakland 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10am Eventbrite Visit Hoover Tower 11am Eventbrite Guided Tour at The Marine Mammal Center 11am Eventbrite Anderson Collection Reservations 11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 11am Berkeley Public Library Basic Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option) 1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 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 FEATURING SEE NIGHT AND DJ KARLITA 8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live  7pm Eventbrite Fantasy Rave 2023 ft. Daxson, Mob Tactics, & more! 7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS Saturday 01/28 7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 1pm Eventbrite Tenderloin Legends: A Historic Walking Tour 1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 3pm Berkeley Public Library The Impact of Indigenous Representation (with NDN Book Nerd & Quiet Quail Books) 4pm Eventbrite IFES Crab Cioppino 7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS Sunday 01/29 9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 11am Oakland Museum of California 22ND ANNUAL LUNAR NEW YEAR AT OMCA: YEAR OF THE RABBIT 11am Eventbrite 49ers vs. Eagles Watch Party @ Rockwell 7:30pm Piedmont Center for the Arts MAds Tolling CD Release concert Monday 01/30 9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi 9am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - ¡Baila Conmigo! 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves 1pm Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North Tuesday 01/31 9am Eventbrite Co-Working Drop-In Reservation - January 2023 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilatest Moving - Pilates 12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters 3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North **new day & time** Wednesday 02/01 All day Oakland Public Library Exhibit: The Black Press in Oakland All day Oakland Public Library Display: African Influences on American Food Culture 10am Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT PREVIEW SALE 11am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue 12pm Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga 3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Dimond 3:30pm Oakland Public Library Yoga for children — 10-class series Thursday 02/02 The Good Life Stress Busters! 10:15am Oakland Public Library Play Café 10:15am Oakland Public Library Toddler Storytime 4pm Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Main TeenZone 4pm Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca 6pm Oakland Public Library We Bike Book Club 10:30am Eventbrite Younger Lagoon Reserve Tour 3:30pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Knitters! 7pm Montclair Village Montclair Neighborhood Council /Montclair Organized Neighborhood Leaders Monthly Public Meeting Read More Events Simone Koga 1/23/23 Events Simone Koga 1/23/23 Simone Spotlight | Tips for Your Next Remodel Hello East Bay! Before planning your next home remodel there are a few things you should consider before you start picking out your paint colors. Before deciding on a home remodel, make sure to do your research, so that when you decide to move forward you have the clarity needed to proceed. Tips for Your Next Remodel JANUARY 23 Hello East Bay! Before planning your next home remodel there are a few things you should consider before you start picking out your paint colors. Before deciding on a home remodel, make sure to do your research, so that when you decide to move forward you have the clarity needed to proceed. 1. Plan with the end in mind Before you begin to renovate your home, you need to know what your goal is for the room, area, addition, or entire home.  What is the purpose of the remodel? Are you renovating to increase the value? Do you need to upgrade your living space for the years to come?  Knowing your neighborhood and considering which renovations would provide a good return on investment will help you decide how to proceed with your project.  Keep in mind that cost and value are not equal. Without considering how to increase the value of your home, you may end up paying for items and renovations that are costly and add no value to your home.  2. Remodel Budget Just as you need to know what you want, you need to know how much you want to pay. Start with a number in mind and then subtract 20%. Set that 20% aside for unexpected costs. Budget - 20% is your actual budget. Most homeowners are unaware that in most home remodels you will face unexpected expenses. Those unexpected expenses can easily put you over budget. Make a master checklist with all the items you will need to purchase versus all the items you already have available.  Another factor that can put you over budget is time. The longer a home remodel takes, the more it will cost you. However, there can always be unexpected delays.  Make sure that you are available to keep things on track in case there are any delays in materials or in labor to avoid paying more in the long run. 3. How to Create your Remodel Calendar Do you want to have your remodel finished by a specific day, holiday, or event? Once you decide when you want your remodel to be completed, work your way backward.  Also, consider your daily and weekly routines. How will this affect your day-to-day life? Will your day-to-day life affect the remodel? Create your calendar based on  your schedule, and your goal date.  Leave some additional days, weeks, and maybe even months in your calendar in case there are delays with your remodel.  4. Hire Professionals Although it may be tempting to save on money when remodeling your home you need to bring in the professionals. Get referrals from friends, read testimonials, and gather quotes. Not all professionals are the same. Why hire professionals? Licensed professionals will be able to pull permits if needed, they are familiar with the city’s codes and regulations and build accordingly and most importantly they increase the value of your home. When you do not hire professionals you stand the risk of having your remodel built with the wrong materials, in an improper way, and would not pass a city inspection.  You may believe you are saving money, but in the long run, not hiring a professional could end up costing you money by decreasing the value of your home. 5. Secure your Belongings Clean the area where the remodel will take place and remove any items that may get damaged or may get in the way of the renovation.  If necessary pack up your belongings and store them temporarily in a storage unit or locker for safekeeping. 6. Protect your Family that includes your Pets  If you have little ones you want to make sure they are safe and out of the job site. Put up safety gates, and electrical safety covers and store tools out of the way, especially after workers have gone home.  Another thing to consider is sawdust, debris, dust, and chemicals. You don’t want your children, family, and pets breathing these things in. Have a renovation-free zone in your house where your family can gather and relax together. While the renovation is in progress make sure the rest of the house is well-ventilated and that at the end of the day make sure the job site is cleaned up. Read More Events Simone Koga 1/19/23 Events Simone Koga 1/19/23 East Bay Weekly Events Hello there, East Bay! 👋 Keep the fun and excitement on gloomy days. Enjoyable indoor and outdoor activities await you! You can attend the entertaining neighborhood events listed below this week. Check this out 👇👀 Your Weekly Guide to Local Events JANUARY 20 - JANUARY 26 Hello there, East Bay! 👋 Keep the fun and excitement on gloomy days. Enjoyable indoor and outdoor activities await you! You can attend the entertaining neighborhood events listed below this week. Check this out 👇👀 Friday 01/20 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 11am Berkeley Public Library Basic Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option) 12:30pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters 2pm Oakland Public Library Mock Citizenship Interview 3pm Berkeley Public Library Fun Friday Crafts @North 3:30pm Berkeley Public Library MOCHA Creative Art Play @Central 3:30pm Oakland Public Library Teen Craft Pop-Up @Brookfield 5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID FEATURING SAGE & CEDAR AND DJ SIYAH 7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS Saturday 01/21 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 10:30am Berkeley Public Library Puppet Art Theater @Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch 11am Piedmont Center for the Arts Phil Witte cartoon Exhibit 12pm Oakland Public Library Mindful Nature/Bird Hike with Susana Renaud 1pm Jack London LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION 2023 1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting 2pm Oakland Public Library Papercraft Pokémon 7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS 7:30pm Comedy Oakland Ducks in a Row FREE Comedy Show  Sunday 01/22 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING Monday 01/23 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10:30am Oakland Public Library Toddler Storytime 11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 1pm Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North Tuesday 01/24 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 11am Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North 12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters 3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North **new day & time** 5:30pm Oakland Public Library Clemente College Experience with Oakland Adult & Career Education Wednesday 01/25 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North 11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 11am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue 3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Yoga Story Time @THP South 4pm Berkeley Public Library Basic Technology Help @Central, (Onsite w/Remote Option) Thursday 01/26 Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo 10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS 10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time @Freight & Salvage 11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING 6:15pm Montclair Village MVA Board Meeting Read More Newer Posts Older Posts Blog   Sell   Buy   Testimonials   About Simone 1900 Mountain Blvd., Oakland, Ca 94611   415-706-1586   simone@simonekoga.com Simone Koga is a real estate agent affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker licensed by the state of California and abides by equal housing opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

February 3- February 9

Hello there, East Bay!

Make the first week of February unforgettable

by attending the local events listed below.

Enjoy and have fun!

Friday 02/03

10am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Visit Hoover Tower

11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Cantor Arts Center reservations

11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Anderson Collection Reservations

12:30pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters

2pm Oakland Public Library It's In the Cards!

2pm Oakland Public Library Mock Citizenship Interview

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

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: GLOW IN THE DARK

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

Saturday 02/04

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am Eventbrite 20th Annual Oakland Black College Expo

10am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Visit Hoover Tower

11am Berkeley Public Library Carrying Things by Bike

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

11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Cantor Arts Center reservations

11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Anderson Collection Reservations

11am Oakland Public Library Paws to Read

12pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Chess Club

12pm Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Chávez

1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting

1pm Eventbrite "SLEEPING WITH THE BISHOP" Book Signing FREE EVENT!

2pm Eventbrite Hopocalypse Day 2023

2pm Eventbrite Napa County AAUW Authors Forum 2023

2pm Oakland Public Library Crafts @ Chávez: Jewelry Workshop // Taller de Joyería

5pm Alameda County Fair Pleasanton Lions Club Fiesta Night

7pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

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

9:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

Sunday 02/05

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Visit Hoover Tower

11am Oakland Museum of California FIRST SUNDAYS

11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Cantor Arts Center reservations

11am Eventbrite Multiple Dates Anderson Collection Reservations

3pm Eventbrite Cacao Ceremony + Sound Healing Bliss

3pm Oakland Public Library Help for Renters

Monday 02/06

3pm Berkeley Public Library Benefits Lawyer in the Library @Central

3pm Berkeley Public Library Cross Stitch Craft-Along @North

7pm Eventbrite Books Inc. Presents Cassandra Clare

Tuesday 02/07

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters

3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Share a little love!

4pm Oakland Public Library Intergenerational Origami Workshop Series

Wednesday 02/08

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North

11am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

1pm Oakland Public Library Utility Bill Assistance with Spectrum Community Services

1pm Oakland Public Library Black Culture Fest: African American Health Academy

1:30pm Oakland Public Library King Branch Crafts!

2pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Arts and Crafts

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

Thursday 02/09

10:15am Oakland Public Library Play Café

3pm Oakland Public Library Shrinky Dinks

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Knitters!

4pm Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca

Simone Spotlight | How Interest Rates Affect Purchasing Power

Know Your Purchase Power

JANUARY 30TH

How Interest Rates Affect Purchasing Power

High-interest rates can have a number of effects on the housing market, including your ability to get approved for a mortgage, the supply of homes on the market, and home prices in general.

New buyers may not be aware of how interest rates affect their purchases. Here are some ways that your home purchase can be affected by interest rates.

Increased rates decrease buying power

Rising mortgage rates can have a significant impact on your buying power. A 1% increase in rates can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly payment and make it difficult to qualify for a loan in the first place. As a result, you might be forced to purchase a less expensive home or wait until rates drop before entering the market.

Finding a home in a lower price range means you might have to compromise and look at homes that are in a less desirable neighborhood, in need of repairs or upgrades, smaller than you planned for, or without the amenities you want

If you don’t want to compromise, you can wait until the market shifts while working on your qualifications as a borrower: You might try to come up with more money for a down payment, increase your credit score or improve your debt-to-income ratio to qualify for a better mortgage.

How does a 1% rate increase affect what you can afford?

A slight rate increase might seem minor, but this small increase in your monthly payment can add up over time and affect your buying power.

If you look at a borrower with a monthly income of $4,500 and a debt-to-income ratio of 36% who makes a 20% down payment, even a quarter of a percent increase can mean they’ll be able to afford roughly $12,000 less over the course of a fixed, 30-year mortgage. With a 1% increase, the price of a home they can afford drops by more than $45,000.

If you are in an area where the average home sells for $1,000,000, and you are pre-approved for $1,000,000 a 1% increase in interest rates would lower your purchase power and put you beneath the average price for homes in your market.

This could cause you to wait to buy, influence you to buy in a different neighborhood, or buy a home that needs work or does not meet your criteria.

When is a good time to buy a house?

Mortgage interest rates change daily, and picking the right time to buy a house depends in large part on your personal financial situation.

Overall, if you can afford a mortgage with the current interest rates and you find a good deal on a house you like, now is a good time to buy a house. 

If the house you want is outside of your budget because of your current finances and the market today, it might be a better idea to wait until the rates are lower or save up more money to increase your down payment.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

JANUARY 27 - February 2

What’s up, East Bay! 👋

Every week brings new fun!

Make it matter by creating memories.

You can go to the interesting local events listed below this week.

Check this out 👇👀

Friday 01/27

12am Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests

8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Inside Oakland

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Eventbrite Visit Hoover Tower

11am Eventbrite Guided Tour at The Marine Mammal Center

11am Eventbrite Anderson Collection Reservations

11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

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

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

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 FEATURING SEE NIGHT AND DJ KARLITA

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland Live 

7pm Eventbrite Fantasy Rave 2023 ft. Daxson, Mob Tactics, & more!

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

Saturday 01/28

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

1pm Eventbrite Tenderloin Legends: A Historic Walking Tour

1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting

3pm Berkeley Public Library The Impact of Indigenous Representation (with NDN Book Nerd & Quiet Quail Books)

4pm Eventbrite IFES Crab Cioppino

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

Sunday 01/29

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

11am Oakland Museum of California 22ND ANNUAL LUNAR NEW YEAR AT OMCA: YEAR OF THE RABBIT

11am Eventbrite 49ers vs. Eagles Watch Party @ Rockwell

7:30pm Piedmont Center for the Arts MAds Tolling CD Release concert

Monday 01/30

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

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

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

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

1pm Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North

Tuesday 01/31

9am Eventbrite Co-Working Drop-In Reservation - January 2023

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

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

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters

3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North **new day & time**

Wednesday 02/01

All day Oakland Public Library Exhibit: The Black Press in Oakland

All day Oakland Public Library Display: African Influences on American Food Culture

10am Oakland Museum of California WHITE ELEPHANT PREVIEW SALE

11am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

12pm Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Dimond

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Yoga for children — 10-class series

Thursday 02/02

The Good Life Stress Busters!

10:15am Oakland Public Library Play Café

10:15am Oakland Public Library Toddler Storytime

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

4pm Oakland Public Library Capoeira na Biblioteca

6pm Oakland Public Library We Bike Book Club

10:30am Eventbrite Younger Lagoon Reserve Tour

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Knitters!

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

Simone Spotlight | Tips for Your Next Remodel

Tips for Your Next Remodel

JANUARY 23

Hello East Bay!

Before planning your next home remodel there are a few things you should consider before you start picking out your paint colors. Before deciding on a home remodel, make sure to do your research, so that when you decide to move forward you have the clarity needed to proceed.

1. Plan with the end in mind

Before you begin to renovate your home, you need to know what your goal is for the room, area, addition, or entire home. 

What is the purpose of the remodel? Are you renovating to increase the value? Do you need to upgrade your living space for the years to come? 

Knowing your neighborhood and considering which renovations would provide a good return on investment will help you decide how to proceed with your project. 

Keep in mind that cost and value are not equal. Without considering how to increase the value of your home, you may end up paying for items and renovations that are costly and add no value to your home. 

2. Remodel Budget

Just as you need to know what you want, you need to know how much you want to pay. Start with a number in mind and then subtract 20%. Set that 20% aside for unexpected costs.

Budget - 20% is your actual budget. Most homeowners are unaware that in most home remodels you will face unexpected expenses. Those unexpected expenses can easily put you over budget.

Make a master checklist with all the items you will need to purchase versus all the items you already have available. 

Another factor that can put you over budget is time. The longer a home remodel takes, the more it will cost you. However, there can always be unexpected delays. 

Make sure that you are available to keep things on track in case there are any delays in materials or in labor to avoid paying more in the long run.

3. How to Create your Remodel Calendar

Do you want to have your remodel finished by a specific day, holiday, or event? Once you decide when you want your remodel to be completed, work your way backward. 

Also, consider your daily and weekly routines. How will this affect your day-to-day life? Will your day-to-day life affect the remodel? Create your calendar based on 

your schedule, and your goal date. 

Leave some additional days, weeks, and maybe even months in your calendar in case there are delays with your remodel. 

4. Hire Professionals

Although it may be tempting to save on money when remodeling your home you need to bring in the professionals. Get referrals from friends, read testimonials, and gather quotes. Not all professionals are the same.

Why hire professionals? Licensed professionals will be able to pull permits if needed, they are familiar with the city’s codes and regulations and build accordingly and most importantly they increase the value of your home.

When you do not hire professionals you stand the risk of having your remodel built with the wrong materials, in an improper way, and would not pass a city inspection. 

You may believe you are saving money, but in the long run, not hiring a professional could end up costing you money by decreasing the value of your home.

5. Secure your Belongings

Clean the area where the remodel will take place and remove any items that may get damaged or may get in the way of the renovation. 

If necessary pack up your belongings and store them temporarily in a storage unit or locker for safekeeping.

6. Protect your Family that includes your Pets 

If you have little ones you want to make sure they are safe and out of the job site. Put up safety gates, and electrical safety covers and store tools out of the way, especially after workers have gone home. 

Another thing to consider is sawdust, debris, dust, and chemicals. You don’t want your children, family, and pets breathing these things in. Have a renovation-free zone in your house where your family can gather and relax together.

While the renovation is in progress make sure the rest of the house is well-ventilated and that at the end of the day make sure the job site is cleaned up.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

JANUARY 20 - JANUARY 26

Hello there, East Bay! 👋

Keep the fun and excitement on gloomy days.

Enjoyable indoor and outdoor activities await you!

You can attend the entertaining neighborhood events listed below this week.

Check this out 👇👀

Friday 01/20

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

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

12:30pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland Chamber Toastmasters

2pm Oakland Public Library Mock Citizenship Interview

3pm Berkeley Public Library Fun Friday Crafts @North

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library MOCHA Creative Art Play @Central

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

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH OFF THE GRID FEATURING SAGE & CEDAR AND DJ SIYAH

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

Saturday 01/21

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Puppet Art Theater @Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch

11am Piedmont Center for the Arts Phil Witte cartoon Exhibit

12pm Oakland Public Library Mindful Nature/Bird Hike with Susana Renaud

1pm Jack London LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION 2023

1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm Oakland Public Library Papercraft Pokémon

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

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Ducks in a Row FREE Comedy Show 

Sunday 01/22

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

Monday 01/23

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Oakland Public Library Toddler Storytime

11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

1pm Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North

Tuesday 01/24

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

11am Berkeley Public Library Tech Help for Seniors @North

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Oakland City Center Toastmasters

3pm Berkeley Public Library Chess Club @North **new day & time**

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

Wednesday 01/25

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North

11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

11am Oakland Public Library Bilingual Storytime/Hora de Cuentos Bilingue

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

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

Thursday 01/26

Oakland Zoo Wings Over Kenya - A Safari Adventure with Oakland Zoo

10am Jack London WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS

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

11am Alameda County Fair GOODTIMES RV SHOW GENERAL PARKING

6:15pm Montclair Village MVA Board Meeting