Happy 2024! We hope that you had a wonderful holiday. Our team is excited to report the latest market data for the East Bay! If you have any questions do not hesitate to reach out. We are excited to bring value to you and your family all throughout the year.

January 2024 | Market Report

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.

Simone Koga 1/8/24 Simone Koga 1/8/24

Simone Spotlight | How to Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. in the East Bay

As the nation prepares to honor the life and legacy of one of its most iconic figures: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Here are events in the East Bay that celebrate his enduring impact and legacy.

MLK JR EVENTS | Monday Blog

Martin Luther King Jr. Events in Oakland, CA

Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Featuring the Music of Stevie Wonder

This special celebration will feature an exclusive artist lineup of Bay Area musical luminaries performing the music of Stevie Wonder. It was Wonder’s version of “Happy Birthday” and his tireless campaigning with the King family that led directly to the enshrinement of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed for the first time in 1986.

Dates: 1/13
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Paramount Theatre
Get tickets here.

MLK Brunch Weekend

Enjoy a weekend of delicious brunches and uplifting vibes as Oakland celebrate MLK's legacy.

Dates: 1/13
Time: 11:00 am 
Location: Magnolia St. Wine Lounge & Kitchen |
3443 San Pablo Ave. Oakland
Get tickets here.

Shoreline Cleanup

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. REGIONAL SHORELINE: All over the nation, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service inspires Americans to come together and serve their communities. Every year, to celebrate the MLK holiday, citizens engage in service to empower and strengthen our communities and bring us closer to his vision of a "Beloved Community."

Dates: 1/15
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Martin Luther King Jr (Oakland): Arrowhead Marsh Parking Lot
Sign up here.

MLK DAY OF SERVICE PLANTING WITH OUR CITY FOREST 

On the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday the City of San Jose celebrates the Civil Rights leader’s life and legacy with a national day of service. Before the planting begins you will hear some remarks from elected officials and community leaders to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dates: 1/15
Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: 748 Story Rd Parking San Jose
Sign up here.

The Simone Koga Group

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

Simone Koga 1/4/24 Simone Koga 1/4/24

East Bay Weekly Events

Join us for a delightful Sunday Fun Day with family and friends – a day of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

JANUARY 5-11

Join us for a delightful Sunday Fun Day with family and friends – a day of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 1/5

9am Oakland Zoo Winter Break ZooCamp

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime

11am Berkeley Public Library Stay-n-Play @West

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

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

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

4pm Eventbrite Circus Bella Presents: Kaleidoscope

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Fo'show Friday

5pm 510families Oakland First Fridays: Family-friendly Street Party

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: CLOSE ENCOUNTERS

6:30pm Chabad Oakland Kabbalat Shabbat

7pm Oakland Public Library Oakland Youth Poet Laureate Alumni Showcase and Application Launch

7pm The Mercury News Emily Catalano

7pm Visit Oakland Comedy Culture Club

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Seawolf Pub

7:30pm Eventbrite Hoot! "The Best Medicine" - a Benefit for Doctors Without Borders

7:30pm The Mercury News The Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra

8:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

10pm Eventbrite TrapSoul First Friday

Saturday 1/6

6:30am Eventbrite Lighting the Path - Morning Yoga and Meditation Intensives

9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market

9am The Mercury News Welcome to Wildlife

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Berkeley Public Library Building Flavor @North

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

11am Oakland Public Library Family Time

11:30am 510families Little Flippers: Kids Pinball League & Lesson

1pm Eventbrite Circus Bella Presents: Kaleidoscope

1pm Oakland Public Library Coffee with a Cop

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

3pm The Mercury News The Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra

4pm Eventbrite A Thing To Talk About: Social Saturday Brunch

4pm Eventbrite Circus Bella Presents: Kaleidoscope

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

7:30pm Eventbrite Sinne Eeg & Josh Nelson

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

8pm Eventbrite Red Light Special: J5 Edition

8pm Visit Oakland All Out Comedy Soft Opening Shows

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

8:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Sunday 1/7

6:30am Eventbrite Lighting the Path - Morning Yoga and Meditation Intensives

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Visit Oakland Weekly Farmers Markets

10:30am The Mercury News Sunday Fun Day

11am Visit Oakland First Sundays at OMCA

11am Oakland Museum of California FIRST SUNDAYS

11am Visit Oakland Jack London Square Farmers Market

12pm Visit Oakland Weekly Wine Tastings

12pm Eventbrite Diaspora Dance Black Joy Parade Team

1pm Eventbrite Circus Bella Presents: Kaleidoscope

1pm Oakland Museum of California OMCA ARCHITECTURE WALK AND TALK

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm The Mercury News Live Music in the Cellar! at Dashe Cellars

2:30pm Eventbrite Intro to Taiko: The Art of Traditional Japanese Drumming

3pm The Mercury News The Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra

4pm Eventbrite Circus Bella Presents: Kaleidoscope

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Eventbrite Sunday Jazz @ Geoffreys Inner Circle 1/7 ~Yancie Taylor w/ Larrie Noble Sr

7pm Eventbrite Punchlines at Portal

7:30pm Eventbrite Head Games Trivia Night at Arthur Mac's Tap & Snack - Oakland

Monday 1/8

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10am Oakland Public Library Family Paths

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

12pm Eventbrite ABV Vol4 | WATER in the Vineyard

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

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

Tuesday 1/9

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga

10:15am Oakland Public Library Storytime and Playtime

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time

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

11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay

11:45am Oakland Public Library Baby Bounce

4pm Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga Series

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

6:30pm 510families Storytime for Families

7pm Oakland Public Library PJ Family Storytime

7:30pm The Mercury News Head Games Trivia Night @ Arthur Mac's Tap & Shack - Oakland

8pm The Mercury News Trivia Tuesdays

Wednesday 1/10

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10:30am Oakland Public Library Play Café

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am Berkeley Public Library Stay & Play

1:30pm Oakland Public Library Wednesday Fun Zone

2pm Berkeley Public Library Teen Hangout

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Mushroom Cultivation

6pm Drake’s Brewing DUNGEONS & DRAKE’S

6pm Berkeley Public Library Cafe Ohlone Talks

7:30pm Visit Oakland Wednesday Game Night

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

Thursday 1/11

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am Oakland Public Library Play Cafe

10:15am Oakland Public Library Storytime

10:15am Oakland Public Library Baby Bounce

10:15am Oakland Public Library Storytime + Playtime

10:30am 510families Musical Storytime with Berkeley Public Library’s Storytime Band

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11:30am Oakland Public Library Insight Housing

12pm Oakland Public Library Community Connections

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Oakland Museum of California SKETCHBOARD LIVE DRAWING AND GALLERY CHATS

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night

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

6pm Eventbrite Instant Band Night 24: NEW YEARS BALL

6:30pm Eventbrite Arte Con Lola: An Acrylic Paint Class!

7pm 510families Harlem Globetrotters

7pm The Mercury News Drag Bingo with Ms. Sweet Nothing at Tipsy Putt East Bay

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Amber Comedy Lounge

8pm Visit Oakland F Bomb Presents: Hofkuche Comedy

Simone Koga 12/21/23 Simone Koga 12/21/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Step into a world of enchantment at Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

DECEMBER 22-28

Step into a world of enchantment at Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 12/22

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11:30am 510families Drop-In Tot Public Swim

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

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

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Lakeview

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails

7pm Visit Oakland Comedy Culture Club

7pm The Mercury News Joy to the World Christmas Concert

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Eventbrite Berkeley Comedy Co-op

Saturday 12/23

9am The Mercury News Welcome to Wildlife

9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market

10am 510families Holiday Family Fun Day

10am The Mercury News Park Cleanup

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Visit Oakland Metropolitan Golf Links' Holiday Family Fun Day

10:30am 510families Creature Feature: Meet Animals

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Story Time @Central CCR

11am 510families Family Time

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus

12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA

1pm Fourth Street Caroling

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm 510families Fun at the Farm

2:30pm The Mercury News ShamaNidra

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY ASTRONOMY: EDIBLE ASTRONOMY

7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy

7pm Visit Oakland Anita Baker – The Songstress Tour

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

8pm Visit Oakland All Out Comedy Soft Opening Shows

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

Sunday 12/24

10am Visit Oakland Weekly Farmers Markets

10:30am 510families Sunday Storytime

11am The Mercury News Berkeley Christmas Eve Premier Brunch Cruise

11am Visit Oakland Jack London Square Farmers Market

12pm Visit Oakland Weekly Wine Tastings

12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS

12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA

12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm Visit Oakland Make a Holiday Themed Flower Crown Headdress

7:30pm The Mercury News Berkeley Christmas Eve Signature Dinner Cruise

Monday 12/25

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

11am The Mercury News Berkeley Christmas Day Premier Brunch Cruise

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

Tuesday 12/26

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9am Oakland Zoo Winter Break ZooCamp

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay

12pm Visit Oakland Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6:30pm 510families Storytime for Families

Wednesday 12/27

9am Oakland Zoo Winter Break ZooCamp

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Oakland Public Library Play Cafe

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:15am 510families Storytime in the Park

10:30am 510families Story Time on the Lawn

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

1:30pm Oakland Public Library Wednesday Fun Zone

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

6pm Drake’s Brewing DUNGEONS & DRAKE’S

7pm FunCheap Karaoke Nite at Temescal Brewing (Oakland)

7pm Visit Oakland Open Improv Jam

7:30pm Visit Oakland Wednesday Game Night

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

Thursday 12/28

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

9am Oakland Zoo Winter Break ZooCamp

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

10:30am 510families Family Storytime

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11:30am Oakland Public Library Insight Housing

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

3pm Berkeley Public Library Family Dance Party @North

4pm Visit Oakland Holiday Inn & Suites - Oakland Airport: HAPPY HOUR

5pm Visit Oakland Out of Focus TV presents AV Club @ Shapeshifters Cinema

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

7pm FunCheap “HellaSecret” Free Thursday Night Comedy Show @ Secret Bar (Oakland)

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Simone Koga 12/18/23 Simone Koga 12/18/23

Thank You for Another Great Year! - Simone Koga

As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to express my sincerest gratitude and privilege to be part of your lives. Thank you for the trust you place in me, and the Simone Koga Group. This has truly been a fantastic year, and I am filled with appreciation for the trust you've placed in our team.

To All Our Clients,

This past year, 2023, has been marked by significant change and growth not only for myself, but for many of our clients who entrusted us with their hopes and dreams, and with whom we worked closely together to achieve their goals. We love being of service to our clients and our community. It is a pleasure to provide value in your lives and be part of your success story.

To us, what matters above all else, is that we were able to help you realize your dreams and make life better for you and your family. That makes what we do worthwhile.

This year we were able to continue helping many of our past clients. It is a joy to continue developing our relationships with our clients. We are not just real estate agents. We are moms, friends, and members of a community and we love helping people come home.

As we look back on the milestones and achievements of this year, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We are eager to embark on the journey of the upcoming year together. With 2024 on the horizon, we see another year filled with hopes, dreams, and endless possibilities. Your satisfaction and success are our greatest rewards, and we are dedicated to continuing to provide the high level of service you deserve.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season filled with warmth and happiness. May the upcoming year bring even more prosperity and success!

Thank you once again for a fantastic year. We look forward to serving you with the same dedication and enthusiasm in the future, and to continue providing value to you and your family.

With Love,

Simone Koga

Simone Koga 12/14/23 Simone Koga 12/14/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Dive into the vibrant world of Fruitvale Posada – where every moment is a celebration of culture, community, and pure joy! 🎉

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

DECEMBER 15-21

Dive into the vibrant world of Fruitvale Posada – where every moment is a celebration of culture, community, and pure joy! 🎉

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 12/15

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10:30am 510families Music & Movement

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Jump and Shake Time @THP South

10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime

11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families

11am Berkeley Public Library Stay-n-Play @West

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

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

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Salsa 'N' Skate

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7:30pm 510families Free Telescope Viewings

7:30pm The Mercury News BAILA! Community. Dance. Party.

7:30pm Eventbrite Free Key Choir: Before the Dawn

8pm Eventbrite Berkeley Comedy Co-op

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Eventbrite Wintersongs with Kitka - OAKLAND

Saturday 12/16

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Visit Oakland Fruitvale Posada

10:30am 510families Creature Feature: Meet Animals

11am 510families Family Time

11am Visit Oakland Holiday Fest - Winter Market at The Bridge Yard

11am 510families Seasonal Wreathmaking at the Farm

11am Alameda County Fair THE LINK UP

11am Berkeley Public Library Puppet Co. Presents The Nutcracker @North

11am Berkeley Public Library Winter Vibes Stamp Making @West

11am Fourth Street Holiday Artisan Market @ Fourth Street Maker’s Row

11am Oakland Public Library Family Time

11am Visit Oakland Festival of Joy & Give Joy Campaign

12pm Visit Oakland Free Selfies with Santa

12pm Visit Oakland Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.

12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA

12:15pm Eventbrite Free Organic Chemistry Singles Mixer - Holiday Volunteering @ The Food Bank

1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

1:30pm 510families Recreation Swim

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

5:30pm Fourth Street A Holiday Fantasy Parade - You Drive, We Wave!

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (7p + 9p Shows)

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

Sunday 12/17

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE FARMER'S MARKET

11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families

12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS

12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum

12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.

12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus

12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

1pm Oakland Museum of California SPOTLIGHT SUNDAYS: HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE AND COLLAGE-FEST

2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition

2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

Monday 12/18

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

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

11:30am 510families Drop-In Tot Public Swim

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

Tuesday 12/19

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay

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

11:30am 510families Drop-In Tot Public Swim

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP

7pm FunCheap Trivia Night + All-Night Happy Hour at Plank (Oakland)

Wednesday 12/20

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

9am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am 510families Story Time on the Lawn

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga

12pm Visit Oakland Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Dimond

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7:30pm FunCheap Secret Winter Guest List: Cobb’s Free Comedy Nights (Dec. 20)

Thursday 12/21

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11:30am Oakland Public Library Community Connections

12pm The Mercury News Fairy Winterland: United by Light!

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm 510families Santa Visits

5:30pm Chabad Oakland 3rd Annual Oakland Car Menorah Parade

6pm Berkeley Public Library Family Movie Night @North

6pm Visit Oakland Family Astronomy: Winter Solstice - The Longest Night

6:15pm 510families Free Movie Night: The Polar Express

6:30pm Drake’s Brewing PINKY’S PAINTING PARTY

7pm FunCheap “HellaSecret” Free Thursday Night Comedy Show @ Secret Bar (Oakland)

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Simone Koga 12/12/23 Simone Koga 12/12/23

December 2023 | Market Report

Check out the latest real estate trends, data and numbers in our monthly market report for December 2023.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the Simone Koga Group. We welcome your questions!

December 2023 | Market Report

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.

Simone Koga 12/11/23 Simone Koga 12/11/23

Simone Spotlight | Selling your House During the Holiday Season VS the Spring

Many homeowners and real estate agents believe the best time to sell real estate is in the spring. Here are reasons why the holiday season may be a goos time for you to sell and why buyers choose to purchase during this time.

Selling your House During the Holiday

Season VS the Spring

DECEMBER 11th

BENEFITS TO SELLING YOUR HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Many homeowners and real estate agents believe the best time to sell real estate is in the spring. After all, many people hunker down during the winter or are too busy with the holidays to think about buying a new home. Buyers often like to start shopping in the spring to make sure they are settled in their homes before the start of a new school year.

But the winter holiday season does have its benefits for home selling as well. So if you can't wait until the weather warms up to get your house on the market, you can take advantage of some of winter's unique upsides.

Lower Housing Inventory

Conventional wisdom says you should wait until the spring to get the most from a home sale. After all, there are generally more buyers in the spring with warmer weather. More competition can lead to price wars, and homes can sell faster and for higher prices than during the winter.

As a result, serious buyers won't have as many homes from which to choose, so there's more time for them to focus on yours. Furthermore, the limited range of options available to buyers means you may be able to command a higher price.

More Serious Buyers

But if your house is up for sale in the winter and someone is looking at it, chances are that person is serious and ready to buy. Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely going to be a serious buyer. Putting your home on the market at this time of year and attracting a serious buyer can often result in a quicker sale.

That Warm and Cozy Feeling

The holidays are often a time when people gather around fireplaces, drink hot chocolate, and bake cakes and cookies. Homeowners who put their houses up for sale during the winter months can take advantage of these traditions as they stage their house. You can leverage holiday decorations for both curb appeal and to create a cozy interior.

Festive Neighborhoods Are Inviting

One of the staples of the holiday months is that many people adorn their homes with festive lights and decorations. That is also true of local communities where lights, wreaths, and other holiday decorations can add charm.

People purchasing a home during that time may see the neighborhood as festive and cheerful. So they may be more willing to consider an area that they would want to live.

Year-End Job Transfers

The end of the year is typically the time when people get notified they will be moving because of a job transfer. Perhaps an offer comes through from another company that's just too good to pass up.

Those people are going to need a home sooner rather than later and, as a result, they'll be hunting for a new home during the holidays. These buyers can’t wait for spring, which is one reason why listing during the holidays can get the home sold more quickly.

End-of-Year Tax Breaks

Reducing the property tax bill may not be the main reason buyers purchase a new home, but it could be why serious buyers make a move during the holidays. That’s because buyers can deduct the mortgage interest, property taxes, and interest costs of the loan if a sale closes on or before Dec. 31.

Recent tax laws limit the deduction, but the tax benefits could still prompt a buyer to move during the holidays instead of waiting until spring.

WHY BUYERS PURCHASE A HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS

There are certain advantages buyers have when purchasing a home during the holiday season. Here are some of those advantages:

1. Less competition

The off-season typically sees fewer buyers in the market. With many potential buyers waiting for the warmer months or the new year, you’ll likely face less competition. This means fewer offers being made leading to less bidding wars.

2. Motivated sellers

A house listed in the off-season often belongs to sellers who have more of an urgency to sell. This could be due to several reasons, such as relocating for a job, financial needs, or other life changes that makes selling their home in the off season the best or only solution. As a result, these sellers are typically more open to negotiation on terms and price.

3. better deals

Historically, home prices can be lower during the off-season, though you should check out the trends in your local housing market. With fewer buyers and motivated sellers, you might just snag a property at a lower price than you would in the peak season.

4. Faster transactions

With fewer real estate transactions taking place, lenders, inspectors, and appraisers are less busy. This can result in a smoother and faster home-buying process, allowing you to settle into your new home sooner.

Simone Koga 12/7/23 Simone Koga 12/7/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the Grand Menorah Lighting. 🕎

#FestivalOfLights ✨

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

DECEMBER 8-14

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the Grand Menorah Lighting. 🕎

#FestivalOfLights ✨

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 12/8

8:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Leadership Oakland Session 3

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime

11am FunCheap Laurel Burch Studios 2023 Holiday Sale & Celebration

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

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

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

3pm 510families Holiday On The Plaza

4pm 510families Shabbanukkah at the Farm (RSVP)

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Jack London Square BRIDGEGOOD'S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER EVENT

5:15pm 510families Cinema Under The Stars

6:30pm Eventbrite Walk with Spirits, A Haunted Pub Crawl

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7pm Visit Oakland WE ARE OAKLAND Holiday Concert

7:30pm FunCheap East Bay Bike Party

7:30pm 510families Free Telescope Viewings

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

7:30pm Eventbrite Thai Massage & Conscious Touch Workshop

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Eventbrite Berkeley Comedy Co-op

Saturday 12/9

8am Eventbrite Brothers Code 2023

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am 510families Breakfast with Santa (RSVP)

10am 510families Carquinez Model Railroad Society Open House

10am Alameda County Fair GREAT TRAIN SHOW

10:30am 510families Creature Feature: Meet Animals

10:30am 510families Outdoor Family Storytime

10:30am Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES: FANTASTIC FUNGI FUN

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

11am FunCheap Laurel Burch Studios 2023 Holiday Sale & Celebration

11am 510families Family Time

12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.

12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus

12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA

12pm Oakland Museum of California MEMBER GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

12pm Oakland Public Library 5th Year Anniversary of the Friends-Stewards of AAMLO

1pm Fourth Street Holiday Craft Market

1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

2pm 510families Fun at the Farm

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

2:30pm Oakland Public Library Kimchi Making Demo with Volcano Kimchi! Volcano Kimchi

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7:30pm 510families Free Telescope Viewings

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

7:30pm Eventbrite LAND AND SEA/TIMELESS PRESENT- A DINNER WITH CHEF SCOTT WINEGARD

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

Sunday 12/10

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am 510families Carquinez Model Railroad Society Open House

10am 510families Donuts & Dreidels

10am The Mercury News FAMILY PROGRAM: HOLIDAY CRAFTS FROM NATURE

10am Alameda County Fair GREAT TRAIN SHOW

11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families

11am FunCheap Laurel Burch Studios 2023 Holiday Sale & Celebration

11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE FARMER'S MARKET

12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS

12pm 510families Kids’ Holiday Celebration

12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum

12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.

12pm 510families Selfies with Santa Claus

12pm 510families Stroll-ish, WINTER

12pm Jack London Square FREE SELFIES WITH SANTA

1pm Alameda County Fair Fresh Cut Christmas Trees

2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

2pm Visit Oakland Make a Holiday Themed Flower Crown Headdress

2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3:30pm 510families Grand Menorah Lighting – Chabad Alameda

4pm 510families Broadway Plaza Menorah Lighting

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Eventbrite Kelly Park BIG Band with Shawn Ryan

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center LASER AFTER HOURS: QUEENS OF POP

Monday 12/11

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

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

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

Tuesday 12/12

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

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

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

Wednesday 12/13

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

10am 510families Wee Play: Drop-In Playtime

10:30am 510families Story Time on the Lawn

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

6pm Drake’s Brewing DUNGEONS & DRAKE’S

7:30pm Visit Oakland Wednesday Game Night

11:45pm Chabot Space & Science Center GEMINIDS METEOR SHOWER VIEWING

Thursday 12/14

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

9:30am 510families Together Wee Play Drop-In

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

5pm 510families Santa Visits

5pm 510families South Shore Menorah Lighting

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night @North

6pm Visit Oakland Twas the Night Before Fairy Winterland

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Simone Koga 12/5/23 Simone Koga 12/5/23

Simone Spotlight | Holiday Season Events in the East Bay

We are in the holiday season and here are some great family events taking place in the month of December to enjoy with your family.

We are excited for the holiday season and we want to wish everyone a wonderful and memorable holiday!

Holiday Season in the East Bay | Monday Blog

Holiday Season in 
the East Bay

Holiday Tea

Afternoon tea, with all the polished silver, fine china and Victorian accouterments. Invite family and friends for steaming pots of fine loose-leaf tea over house-made scones, tea sandwiches on artisan bread, luscious fruit-topped pastries and French sweets delivered in elegant style. Requisite sides include lemon curd, Devonshire cream and fruit compote.

Dates: Nov. 24 - Dec. 14th Thursday - Sunday & Starting Daily on Dec. 14th
Time: Starting at 1:00 pm
Location: Fairmont Hotel | 950 Mason Street San Francisco, CA

21st Annual Montclair Village Holiday Stroll

Live performances by local youth and school groups including Colla Voce (Head Royce’ choral ensemble), Edna Brewer Jazz Band, GleeBA (Temple Beth Abraham’s children’s choir), Jazz Education Ensemble, Montera Middle School Band, Pacific Boychoir Academy, Piedmont Troubadours and more.

Professional Winter Wonderland photos with Santa taken by Leah Marie Studio for $30.

Date: Dec. 7th | 4:00 pm or 8:00 pm
Location: Montclair Village | 2050 Mountain Boulevard, Oakland

Holiday Music

Holiday Concert event featuring talented local performer Andre Thierry at the Pacific Commons Shopping Mall! 
Thierry is a Grammy-nominated accordion soul artist known for his fast funky rhythms with Zydeco inspiration. 
Additional entertainment:
Santa & Elves, Face Painting, Balloon Art

Dates: Dec. 9th 
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Pacific Commons Center | 43440 Boscell Rd. Fremont, CA

Fairy Winterland

Children’s Fairyland shines bright during Fairy Winterland! This magical, multicultural event brings families together to share in the season’s many festivities. From sparkling landscapes of twinkly lights to spirited nightly performances and complimentary cups of cocoa and cider. The theme this year is United by Light.

Dates: Dec. 15th -17th, 20th - 23rd, 26th - 30th | 12:00 pm or 7:00 pm
Location: Children's Fairyland | 699 Bellevue Avenue Oakland, CA

The East Bay Nutcracker

The Oakland Symphony along with the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir bring Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score to life. Graham Lustig’s The Nutcracker will be the highlight of your holiday season! Performed in the Historic Paramount Theatre. 
Ticket prices start at $34.

Date: Dec. 16th | 11:00 am or 3:00 pm
Date: Dec. 17th | 1:00 pm
Location: Paramount Theatre | 2201 Broadway #LL17
Oakland, CA

Holiday Craft Event at Pacific Commons

Bring your kids to paint their very own small wooden holiday trees. It’s a FREE and creative celebration. While supplies last. 
Next to Jamba Juice and Near Five Below at Pacific Commons.

Dates: 12/20 
Time: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: Pacific Commons Center | 43440 Boscell Rd. Fremont, CA

The Simone Koga Group

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

Simone Koga 11/30/23 Simone Koga 11/30/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Join the luminous spectacle of the 47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

DECEMBER 1-7

Join the luminous spectacle of the 47th Annual Lighted Yacht Parade!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 12/1

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families

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

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Visit Oakland First Friday: "Frosty Friday"

5pm Visit Oakland First Friday Street Festival

5pm 510families Oakland First Fridays: Family-friendly Street Party

5pm Black Cultural Zone BCZ 2ND ANNUAL GUMBO FESTIVAL, PARTNER MIXER & AKOMA HOLIDAY MARKET

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

5:30pm Eventbrite 2023 End of Year Party

5:30pm 510families It’s a Wonderful Night

5:30pm 510families Tree Lighting & Car-Free Holiday Parade

5:30pm 510families Tree Lighting Ceremony

6pm 510families Holiday Light Up the Night

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

7pm Eventbrite Japanese Vegan Family Style Feast w/ lots of yuzu

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Eventbrite Berkeley Comedy Co-op

8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

Saturday 12/2

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Family Story Time @Central CCR

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

11am Eventbrite Oakland - Brunch Tour

11am Eventbrite Girl Gang Craft Holiday Craft Fair (Oakland)

12pm Visit Oakland GIFTY 2023: A Holiday Celebration of Local Creative Culture

12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.

12pm Eventbrite Day Thinking Trivia Brunch

1pm Eventbrite Yoni Yoga: Sensual Movement

1pm Fourth Street Puppets & Popcorn - Fratello Marionette Shows

1pm Berkeley Public Library Urban Cycling 101 @North

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes

3pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting & Santa

3:30pm 510families Light Up the Season

4:30pm 510families Light up the Night

4:30pm Visit Oakland Piedmont Avenue Tree Lighting

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm 510families Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

5:30pm Jack London Square THE 47TH ANNUAL LIGHTED YACHT PARADE

5:45pm Jack London Square HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

7pm Eventbrite Open Mic

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

10pm Eventbrite ISSA VIBE

Sunday 12/3

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE FARMER'S MARKET

11am FunCheap Oakland Museum of California’s Free First Sundays

11am The Mercury News Annual Holiday Mercado

11am 510families Christmas Tours at the Patterson House for Families

12pm 510families Santa on Solano Ave.

12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS

12pm The Mercury News OPC COMMUNITY MUSIC DAY!

12pm Eventbrite Goth Yoga

1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch

2pm Visit Oakland Make a Holiday Themed Flower Crown Headdress

2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition

2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

2pm The Mercury News Live Music in the Cellar! at Dashe Cellars

2:30pm Eventbrite Intro to Taiko: The Art of Traditional Japanese Drumming (song: Kenka end)

3:30pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting

4:30pm Eventbrite Reset & Renew - Restorative Yoga + Sound Healing

4:30pm 510families It’s a Wonderful Life Holiday Celebration

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Eventbrite Rare Scotch Whisky Tasting Experience - Oakland

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.

8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK

9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters

Monday 12/4

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

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

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

7:30pm The Mercury News CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS

9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats

Tuesday 12/5

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

10:15am Oakland Public Library Fall Stay & Play

10:15am Oakland Public Library Storytime and Playtime

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

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP

Wednesday 12/6

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

6pm Drake’s Brewing GATHER STUDIO & EVENTS: HOLIDAY WREATHS

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

Thursday 12/7

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

10am The Good Life Stress Busters!

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

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

4pm 510families 21st Annual Montclair Village Holiday Stroll

5pm Montclair Village Holiday Stroll 2023

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night @West

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Simone Koga 11/27/23 Simone Koga 11/27/23

Simone Spotlight | The East Bay Christmas Tree Farms

We are in the holiday season and if you haven’t put up your tree yet, here is a list of the East Bay Christmas Tree farms where you can pick up your family’s Christmas tree.

We are excited for the holiday season and we want to wish everyone a wonderful and memorable holiday!

The East Bay Christmas Tree Farms

november 27th

Berkeley

East Bay Nursery offers your pick of evergreens: living and cut trees, garlands, wreaths, and that natural piney smell along with a festive Christmas Shoppe filled with all the trimmings.

Dates & Time: November 24th - December 23rd | Monday - Sunday | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Located: 2332 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA

Berkeley Bowl they are fully stocked with Christmas trees. Pick up a tree with your groceries and be done.

Located: 2020 Oregon St Berkeley, CA & 920 Heinz Ave Berkeley, CA

Cal Forestry Club offers a popular tree sale in early December, which raises funds for the club to attend conferences, go on field-tours, and build a forestry community at Berkeley. Cost is $10 per foot.

Dates & Time: Sunday, December 3 | 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. & December 4 - 6 | 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Located: By Mulford Hall on UC Berkeley's campus | 130 Hilgard Way Berkeley, CA

Outdoor Supply Hardware has live and artificial trees as well as holiday decor.

Dates & Time: Monday - Saturday | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. & Sunday | 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Located: 1025 Ashby Ave Berkeley, CA

CASTRO VALLEY

Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm has a variety of trees grown on the farm and are available for cutting, which makes them the freshest trees possible.

Dates & Time: Friday - Sunday | 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Located: 7001 Miller Rd Castro Valley, CA

DIXON

Silveyville Christmas Tree Farm is halfway to Sacramento, but it is the full festive experience, and worth the drive. They have a Christmas boutique, concession stand that’s open on the weekends, a fire pit, and perhaps most importantly, goats.

Dates & Time: Monday & Wednesday - Sunday | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Tuesdays.

Located: 6248 Silveyville Road Dixon, CA

EL CERRITO

Delancey Street Trees supports the community in a positive way. Find mistletoe, indoor tree lights, decorated wreaths, living potted pines, tree removal bags, and water bowls. No frills.
Located: 10496 San Pablo Blvd El Cerrito, CA

Home Depot El Cerrito carries a variety of Christmas trees, as well as loads of lights, decorations, and that tree stand you’ve been meaning to replace. Pro Tip: If you wait until Christmas Eve, you can get a tree for super cheap (sometimes free!).

Dates & Time: Monday - Saturday | 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. & Sunday | 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Located: 11939 San Pablo Ave El Cerrito, CA

LIVERMORE

Moore Pumpkins and Christmas Trees in San Ramon and Livermore has been providing East Bay Area families with trees since 1984. They offer Silver Tip, Noble Fir, and Nordmann fir trees at both locations ranging from three to 24 feet in height, with the option of flocked trees in Livermore. If you’re looking for extra holiday greenery, they also sell wreaths and garlands.

Dates & Time: Monday - Thursday | 12 P.M. - 7 p.m. & Friday - Sunday | 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Located: 19901 San Ramon Valley Blvd San Ramon, CA or 2180 Cayetano Ct Livermore, CA

Oakland

Brent’s Christmas Trees is conveniently located across from the Grand Lake Theater.

Dates & Time: November 18th - December 24th | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Located: 503 Lake Park Way, across from the Grand Lake Theater Oakland, CA

Delancey Street Tree in Temescal & Trestle Glen carry mistletoe, indoor tree lights, decorated wreaths, living potted pines, tree removal bags and water bowls for trees. Flame retardant is also available.

Located: 5601 Telegraph Ave. & 3600 Park Blvd Oakland, CA

Wonderland Trees Christmas Tree on Bay Street in Emeryville is a great way to spend a day with your family. Purchase your tree after a day of fun along with your holiday shopping.

Dates: Opened on Black Friday, November 24th

Located: Bay Street Shopping Center | 5600 Shellmound St Emeryville, CA

Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm offers many kinds of trees that you can choose and cut yourself. Enjoy an old-fashioned walk in the woods in the East Bay hills. Credit cards are allowed this year. They sold out by early December last year, so go early!

Dates & Time: Friday - Sunday | 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Located: 7001 Miller Rd Castro Valley, CA

Piedmont Scout Tree Lot is a great way to support the Scouts! Their online store is open for orders. The tree lot is open at Coaches Field.

Dates & Time: Monday – Friday | 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. & Saturday | 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. & Sunday | 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Located: 898 Red Rock Road at 890 Moraga Ave Piedmont, CA

Speer Family Farms has a variety of trees, services, you can purchase online and they will deliver.

Dates & Time: Monday – Sunday | 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Located: 2453 Hancock St Alameda, CA

Richmond

Richmond ABC Tree Farms is part of a large chain of Christmas tree lots with four locations in the East Bay (San Lorenzo, Concord, Antioch). Delivery and flocking are available.

Dates & Time: November 18th - 22nd until December 24th or until sold out.

Located: 2200 Hilltop Mall Road, Richmond, CA

WALNUT CREEK

Toby's Christmas Trees are cut and harvested just days before shipping. They sell Christmas Trees, Wreaths, Garland. They are a full service business with Flocking, Fire Retarding and Delivery as part of the customer options. The choice of Christmas Trees are Noble Fir, Douglas Fir, Nordman, Grand Fir and Silver Tip.

Dates & Time: Monday - Sunday | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Located in: Heather Farm Community Center | 301 N San Carlos Dr Walnut Creek, CA

Simone Koga 11/22/23 Simone Koga 11/22/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Experience the amazing adventure with Blippi on his Wonderful World Tour!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

november 24-30

Experience the amazing adventure with Blippi on his Wonderful World Tour!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 11/24

10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

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

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

4pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting Festivities

4:30pm 510families Santa Lights the Square

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

6pm 510families Niles Festival of Lights Parade

6:30pm Eventbrite Sip & Step

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

Saturday 11/25

7am Eventbrite Volunteer w/Uhuru Foods & Pies @ the Grand Lake Farmers Market

9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Fratello Marionettes' Jack and the Beanstalk @THP South

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

11am Eventbrite HIIT & Run

11am Oakland Public Library Family Time

12pm Drake’s Brewing CRAFTS & DRAFTS

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

1pm Fourth Street Caroling

1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

1pm Fourth Street Saturdays with Santa

1pm Eventbrite Yoni Yoga: Sensual Movement

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:15pm 510families Free Outdoor Xmas Movie

5:30pm 510families Main Street Tree Lighting

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY ASTRONOMY: THE MOON AND TIDES

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

7pm Eventbrite Open Mic

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

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

7:30pm Visit Oakland "Challenge Tonight" Improv Show

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

10pm Eventbrite (Afrobeats in Oakland) Ginger

Sunday 11/26

11am The Mercury News JACK LONDON SQUARE INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO A WEEKLY OPEN-AIR MARKET

11am 510families Nutcracker Sweet with the Puppet Company

12pm Drake’s Brewing S’MORES & STOUTS

12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum

12pm The Mercury News Drag Yourself to Brunch at the Alameda Comedy Club

1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch

2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3pm Eventbrite Salsa by the Bay Sundays at Building 43 in Alameda

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.

8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK

Monday 11/27

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

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

6:30pm 510families Evening Family Storytime

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

7pm FunCheap Monday Night Blues (Oakland)

9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats

Tuesday 11/28

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9am The Good Life GivingTuesday Live - Together We Grow

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

10am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Community Impact Committee Meeting

10:15am Oakland Public Library Fall Stay & Play

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

11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

6pm Eventbrite $1 Margaritas + Disco Taco Tuesday

7pm FunCheap Trivia Night + All-Night Happy Hour at Plank (Oakland)

8pm FunCheap Tuesday Trivia Night at Nigh Heron (Oakland)

Wednesday 11/29

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

9am 510families Free Hour at Japanese Tea Garden

9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:15am 510families Storytime in the Park

10:30am 510families Story Time on the Lawn

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga

4:30pm 510families Indoor Tree Lighting with Santa & Carolers

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

Thursday 11/30

8am 510families Explore Blake Garden

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11:30am Oakland Public Library Community Connections

12pm Eventbrite Bay Area African Restaurant Week 2023

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Eventbrite THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

5:30pm 510families Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting

5:30pm 510families Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting

6pm Visit Oakland Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center ACRYLIC SPACE PAINT & SIP: HOLIDAY EDITION

6:30pm 510families Holiday Tree Lighting

6:30pm Drake’s Brewing PINKY’S PAINTING PARTY

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7pm Eventbrite Hillside Echoes presents Folk Dancing with Da! Mozhem

7pm FunCheap FREE: “Thirsty Thursday” Oakland Comedy Night w/ All-Night $5 Drink Specials

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Simone Koga 11/20/23 Simone Koga 11/20/23

Simone Spotlight | What to do with the Thanksgiving Leftovers?

The Simone Koga would like to wish you a safe, happy, and wonderful holiday for you and your family. We love adding value to your lives and please share any Thanksgiving leftover recipes that your family enjoyed!

What to do with the Thanksgiving Leftovers?

november 20th

Thanksgiving is almost here and with it is the question of what to do with the leftovers. So much preparation goes into the meal, but one never really considers what to do with all of the food afterward.

If you are sick of soup, sandwiches, and reheating leftovers, below you will find transformation recipes that will allow you to create something new with your leftovers for a new tradition on what to do with holiday leftovers.

Asian Thanksgiving Fusion

David Chang restaurateur, TV personality, and founder of the Momofuku Restaurant Group uses white bread to create a Thanksgiving leftover egg roll. He believes the food after Thanksgiving is better than Thanksgiving, to see his Thanksgiving leftover recipes you can click here and watch him on his YouTube channel.

Mexican Inspired Transformations

Here are 3 great recipes to give your Thanksgiving leftovers some Mexican food flare:

1. Turkey and black bean quesadilla - Click here for the recipe.

2. Turkey Enchilada recipe - Click here for the recipe.

3. Turkey Carnitas - Click here for the recipe.

CAJUN STYLE LEFTOVERS

Have you ever considered turning your leftovers into Gumbo? The sky’s the limit. This Louisiana-inspired recipe will have you transforming your leftovers into a whole new meal.

Click here for the recipe.

STUFFED FRENCH TOAST

Ever wonder what to do with that cheese platter and cranberry sauce? Well, now you can transform them into an amazing brunch item for the next day.

Transform your leftover brie into stuffed French toast with this recipe. Click here.

BREAKFAST TURKEY FRITTATA

A simple way to transform your leftovers is by making a simple frittata with all of your leftovers. This simple recipe is an easy way to make a hearty breakfast, lunch or snack option without too much effort.

Click here for the recipe.

MORE Recipes FOR Thanksgiving leftover dishes are:

Thanksgiving Turkey and egg noodle soup - Click here for the recipe.
Turkey Curry - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Nachos - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Leftover Stromboli - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Pizza - Click here for the recipe.
Thanksgiving Dumplings - Click here for the recipe.
Turkey Chow Mein - Click here for the recipe.

Simone Koga 11/16/23 Simone Koga 11/16/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Get ready for a magical adventure with Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at The Fox Theater!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

november 17-23

Get ready for a magical adventure with Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at The Fox Theater!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 11/17

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Jump and Shake Time @THP South

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11:30am The Mercury News Beaujolais Nouveau 2023 Celebration at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

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

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

1pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ KING

2pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Main TeenZone

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Lakeview

4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023

4pm Alameda County Fair MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Salsa 'N' Skate

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

7:30pm The Mercury News BAILA! Community. Dance. Party.

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

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

8pm The Mercury News The Imagination Unleashed - Improv in Downtown Oakland

8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke

8pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Saturday 11/18

9:30am Oakland Zoo ZooKids

10am Chabot Space & Science Center CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS PEOPLES

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am 510families Family Fun on the Farm

11am Berkeley Public Library Indigenous Storytime: Three Sisters - Corn, Bean and Squash @North

11am Oakland Public Library Family Time

11am Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!

11:30am The Mercury News Beaujolais Nouveau 2023 Celebration at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland

12pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

12pm Eventbrite Day Thinking Trivia Brunch

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

1pm Oakland Public Library Teen UNO Tournament

1:30pm 510families Recreation Swim

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes

3pm The Mercury News Family Friendly Diwali Celebration with Non Stop Bhangra

4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023

4pm Alameda County Fair MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm The Mercury News Night Ops: Live Aboard Overnight – Youth Group Overnight Adventure

7pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash

8pm The Mercury News The Imagination Unleashed - Improv in Downtown Oakland

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

9:30pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

10pm Evevntbrite SATURDAY NIGHT VYBZ

Sunday 11/19

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Alameda County Fair EXOTIC BIRD MART

10am Oakland Museum of California SPOTLIGHT SUNDAYS: FILM SCREENING OF MISTY COPELAND’S FLOWER WITH DANCE PERFORMANCE AND PANEL TALK

10:30am The Mercury News Thanksgiving Celebration

11am The Mercury News Universal Drumming Series

11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET

11am Alameda County Fair MAJOR LEAGUE TABLE TENNIS

11:30am The Mercury News Beaujolais Nouveau 2023 Celebration at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland

1pm 510families Free Sailboat Rides at Cal Sailing Club Open House

2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition

2pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

3pm Visit Oakland Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at The Fox Theater

4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

6pm The Mercury News Thangs Taken: Rethinking Thanksgiving

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.7

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

11pm The Mercury News Sunday FUNDday at Tipsy Putt East Bay with American Cancer Society

Monday 11/20

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am Oakland Zoo Fall Break ZooCamp

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

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

4pm 510families Tot Splash Open Swim

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats

Tuesday 11/21

9am Oakland Zoo Fall Break ZooCamp

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

10:30am 510families Hikes for Tykes: Oyster Bay

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

11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

Wednesday 11/22

9am Oakland Zoo Fall Break ZooCamp

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Playdate in the Park @West

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Drake’s Brewing DUNGEONS & DRAKE’S

6pm Berkeley Public Library Berkeley Repertory Theatre Docent Talk : Harry Clarke

6:30pm Visit Oakland Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Square

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

Thursday 11/23

All day Oakland Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Day

8:30am Visit Oakland Oakland Turkey Trot | Run and Walk | Thanksgiving Day 2023

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11:30am Visit Oakland Thanksgiving Dinner at the Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel

12pm Jack London Square LEFT BANK IN JACK LONDON SQUARE WILL BE CELEBRATING THANKSGIVING 2023!

12pm Visit Oakland Thanksgiving 2023

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night

Simone Koga 11/13/23 Simone Koga 11/13/23

Simone Spotlight | How to Budget for the Upcoming Holiday Season

A holiday budget can help you avoid overspending and start the new year off on the right foot. It comes down to making a plan, preparing your finances, and making changes as necessary.

Here is a guide to help you budget and have a great holiday season!

Budgeting During the Holidays

November 13th

We've all felt the pinch of inflation this year, which suggests that this holiday season could be an expensive one.

Planning can help you avoid overspending. Start by preparing early, making your gift list, and determining how much you can reasonably afford. Here's a simple checklist for creating a holiday budget that works for you.

1. Start Early

You still have some time to prep your budget ahead of the holiday season. The first step is estimating what your total holiday spend will be. Looking at what you spent last year is a good place to start. (You can review your bank statements if you're having trouble remembering.) Now look ahead and think about what your financial responsibilities will look like this year.

Like any financial goal, the sooner you start saving, the better. After the holidays are behind you, add up what you spent in all and divide that number by 12. This can be a line item you add to your monthly budget going forward. If you set aside $100 a month, for example, you'll have $1,000 saved by the end of October.

2. List Your Expenses

Holiday expenses usually go beyond gift giving. See if you can ballpark how much you'll spend in each of the following categories:

Gifts: This includes your family, friends, kids' teachers and holiday tips for service providers like babysitters or your mail carrier. Holiday donations go in this category as well.
Decorations: No matter what you celebrate, you'll want to plan ahead for home décor. That might include lights, ornaments, a Christmas tree, lawn decorations and more.
Holiday travel: Whether it's a holiday vacation or round-trip flights to your hometown, holiday travel can add up fast. If you're taking a road trip, don't forget to budget for gas.
Food and entertaining: ‘Tis the season for holiday parties. If you're expecting to play host, you will need to think about food, drinks and if your guests will be chipping in for the festivities. If you plan on attending holiday parties this year, you might also be on the hook for secret Santa or white elephant gift exchanges.
Unpaid time off: This is an especially important point for freelancers and self-employed folks. In the same vein, if this time of year is normally a slow season, being prepared can help you pad your budget.

3. Determine How Much You Can Spend

Once you have a total number in mind, you can build your holiday budget. Begin by looking at how much discretionary income you typically have each month.

When all your bills are paid and you've set aside money for your finance goals, roughly how much do you have left over? You can funnel some of this surplus into your holiday fund. If things feel tight, see if there are any expenses you can trim, either temporarily or permanently. Some ideas include:

Revising your budget to eliminate overspending
Reviewing your subscriptions and memberships
Meal planning and reducing takeout orders
Lowering your utility bills
Refinancing debt
Carpooling or using public transportation
Negotiating lower credit card interest rates

4. Track Your Spending

To help stay on budget and avoid the big, scary January credit card bill, be sure to track your spending —whether you use a credit card, debit card, cash, or any other payment method. There are a few ways to go about it:

Log in to your bank account regularly to review your transactions.
Hold on to your receipts and deduct the totals from your budget as you go.
Keep a note on your phone that shows how much you can spend in each category. Every time you make a holiday purchase, update the numbers.
Opt for a budgeting app that will track your spending for you.

You can tweak your holiday budget along the way if some things end up costing more than you anticipated. That may require you to reduce spending in another area to even things out.

5. Find Other Ways to Free Up Money for the Holidays

If running the numbers for your holiday budget gives you sticker shock, you can look for other ways to save money this holiday season. That might include allocating less to certain categories or removing others altogether. Here are some ideas:

Instead of buying gifts for each one of your friends or family members, see if the group is open to doing a Secret Santa exchange—then you'll only have to buy one gift.
Pare down your gift list, spend less on each gift, or consider homemade gifts.
If hosting a holiday party, opt for a potluck or BYOB setup.
Take advantage of holiday sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Cut back on holiday travel. If you want to visit family members, consider going at a different time of year when flights and other expenses may be cheaper.
Bookmark your favorite sites and sign up for email newsletters so you'll be the first to know about holiday sales.
If you've got an end-of-year work bonus coming your way, put it toward your holiday budget.
Pick up a side gig to increase your income before the holidays get here.

The Bottom Line

A holiday budget can help you avoid overspending and start the new year off on the right foot. It comes down to making a plan, preparing your finances, and making changes as necessary.

Using rewards credit cards is another way to potentially save this holiday season. Just be sure to pay off the balance in full each billing cycle to avoid interest charges. When done right, rewards cards can unlock cash back and other worthwhile perks.

Simone Koga 11/9/23 Simone Koga 11/9/23

East Bay Weekly Events

Step into a world of enchantment at Glowfari ✨ Don't miss out on this illuminating experience! ✨🌙

#Glowfari #NightMagic

Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

november 10-16

Step into a world of enchantment at Glowfari ✨ Don't miss out on this illuminating experience! ✨🌙

#Glowfari #NightMagic

Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!

Friday 11/10

10:30am 510families Music & Movement

10:30am Visit Oakland Fairyland Toddler Storytime

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

12pm 510families Visit with Wildlife

1pm Oakland Public Library Mandela Partners Produce Stand

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

2pm Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

4pm Oakland Public Library It's DiNovember Time!

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Visit Oakland Oakland Diwali Celebration

7pm Jack London Square LATIN NIGHT

7pm Visit Oakland Latin Night featuring Mambo Soul

7pm Visit Oakland Comedy Culture Club

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7pm Eventbrite Food Pop-Up by Cat Allen w/ Filipino Food

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

7:30pm FunCheap East Bay Bike Party

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

8pm Eventbrite Midnight Brunch/Karaoke

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

9:45pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Saturday 11/11

All day FunCheap Free National Parks Day (2023) Muir Woods + Yosemite for Veterans Day

8am Alameda County Fair GOODGUYS 33RD AUTUMN GET-TOGETHER

8am 510families Free Entrance Day at National Parks

9:30am Oakland Zoo ZooKids

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am 510families Open Studio: Diwali

10:30am Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES: THE AMAZING WORLD OF INSECTS AND HELPFUL POLLINATORS

11am 510families Family Time

11:30am Visit Oakland Oakland’s Magic Kitchen at Children’s Fairyland

12pm Oakland Museum of California MEMBER GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

12pm The Mercury News Oakland Artisan Holiday Fairs

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY CHATS AT OMCA

1pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

1:30pm 510families Recreation Swim

2pm Eventbrite Outdoor Wine Tasting in Oakland

2pm Eventbrite Black Panther Party Legacy City Tour

2:30pm The Mercury News ShamaNidra

5pm Fourth Street LIGHTS ON & SPARKLING 2023

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7pm The Mercury News Cinderella Enchanted

7pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

7pm Eventbrite Critical Hit! Live Stand Up Comedy

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

8pm Comedy Oakland Comedy Oakland at Calabash (Saturdays)

8pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

9:30pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

10pm Eventbrite SILENT PARTY OAKLAND "TRAP, R&B AND AFRO-BEATS"

Sunday 11/12

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Oakland Zoo Little Vets

11am Jack London Square JACK LONDON SQUARE MARKET

12pm Drake’s Brewing JMPNS FALL FESTIVAL

12pm 510families Model Trains at the Golden State Model Railroad Museum

2pm Oakland Public Library Puzzle Challenge - Winter Edition

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

6pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.

8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK

9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters

Monday 11/13

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am 510families Visit the Little Farm

10am Oakland Public Library Family Paths

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

6pm Visit Oakland The Second Mondays Open Mic

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

7pm FunCheap Monday Night Blues (Oakland)

9pm Eventbrite MONDAYS AT ZANZI - Amapiano | Afrohouse | Afrobeats

Tuesday 11/14

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

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

11am The Mercury News Taco Tuesday at Tipsy Putt East Bay

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

6pm Montclair Village Lawyers in the Library

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

7pm Visit Oakland Level 1 Improv "Beginner Improv"

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7pm FunCheap Trivia Night + All-Night Happy Hour at Plank (Oakland)

8pm FunCheap Tuesday Trivia Night at Nigh Heron (Oakland)

Wednesday 11/15

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Gaming @ Dimond

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Hangout // Pasa Tiempo de Adolescentes

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Family Yoga

5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari

5pm Drake’s Brewing GATHER STUDIO & EVENTS: BLANKETS & BEER

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

Thursday 11/16

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

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

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

4pm Jack London Square BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU 2023

5:30pm Visit Oakland 90's Trivia Night

6pm Berkeley Public Library Family Movie Night @North

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

8pm Eventbrite Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn

Simone Koga 11/8/23 Simone Koga 11/8/23

November 2023 | Market Report

Check out the latest real estate trends, data and numbers in our monthly market report for November 2023.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the Simone Koga Group. We welcome your questions!

November 2023 | Market Report

The 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.

Simone Koga 11/6/23 Simone Koga 11/6/23

Simone Spotlight | Staying on Track when Buying a Home during the Holiday Season

Buying a home during a season popular for gift-giving can put an additional strain on your finances, but that strain can be offset with a good plan, knowing how much you can afford, and a stringent budget.

Monday Blog | november 6th

Here are 3 tips for buying during the Christmas, Hanukkah, and holiday season:

Tip 1. Don’t incur new debts!

When you apply for a mortgage to buy a home, your credit and any existing debt you have will be examined and considered by a loan underwriter. While you don’t have to have zero debt to get a mortgage, you should be paying your debt down consistently to be in the best financial standing possible for the sake of your loan.

It may be tempting to pay for seasonal purchases with a credit card, but ultimately it is not advisable as this will show up as debt. While you are in the process of buying a home, avoid making other large purchases (like buying a car or new furniture), use cash or debit cards as often as possible, and avoid touching your savings account; that’s good advice when buying a home, no matter the season!

Tip 2. What is your bottom line?

Knowing how much you can afford to spend on your home is important any time of year, not just during the holidays. Knowing how much you can spend on a new home before you begin to visit potential properties is key.

Many times buyers are told how much a bank will loan them. This number is the maximum you can spend, but a buyer doesn’t have to spend up to that number. You want to make sure that you know what is the most you want to pay for a home and not exceed that number even if the bank is willing to lend you a higher amount.

Tip 3. Stick to your budget!

Once you have established how much you can spend, you need to stick to that number. Sticking to your budget will make you feel better about moving forward with your home purchase. Knowing that the home you are buying is one that you can afford will prevent unnecessary stress.

Advantages to buying at this time of year:

The holiday season is less competitive. You have motivated sellers and faster closings during the holidays!

Because winter is usually a slower season, it’s a great time to be a buyer. Most home purchases occur during the spring and summer months, but homes go on the market year-round; by shopping during the winter, you’re more likely to find a home that you like quickly and less likely to face stiff competition when you submit your offer.

Additionally, sellers and their agents are often more motivated before the holidays as they want to close the sale before the end of the year, which means they may accept lower-priced offers.

Also, since fewer people move before the holidays, there’s usually not a rush for moving trucks; just a nice little bonus to moving this time of year!

Although both the holidays and the home-buying process occasionally come with their share of stresses, don’t let that dampen your holiday spirit.

Take every chance possible to slow down and celebrate this very special time of year; before you know it, you’ll be in your new home!