Just Another Day in the Life of a Tri-Valley Realtor: My Dublin Real Estate Experience
August 9, 2008
I woke up and sat on the side of my bed. Immediately, my thoughts led me to one of my Dublin listings scheduled to fund in the morning hours and record in the afternoon. Some of you might be asking why my first waking thought was of work, but for me it’s like that most days.
I don’t want to sound cheesy, but I really do care about my clients. I develop close relationships with my clients, and our relationship most times crosses over to friendship. On this particular morning and for this particular client, it was no different. Over the course of the transaction we had become friends, and there was nothing more that I wanted than to close out this deal for him.
While getting the kids ready for school, I focused on keeping a positive vibe about my day. I drove out to my client’s house to make sure that it would be just right for the buyers on their move-in day. To my surprise, I discovered a turn of events that no Realtor wants a few hours away from closing. How it was resolved is what every Realtor knows is an essential skill when you work in real estate - decisive problem solving. Check out the vlog for the full story.
Quick Update: My client’s property in Dublin ended up recording that same day. The item was not covered by the warranty, and we have scheduled for full replacement and repair to be completed early in the following week. All parties involved are happy with the outcome and quick resolution.
Property Tax Bill to Change for Dublin Homeowners
July 5, 2008
The Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) recently made a change that directly impacts Dublin residents’ property tax bills. Up until July 1, wastewater service charges were paid separately by Dublin homeowners in a bi-monthly fashion. This system has now been changed. Beginning in July, wastewater services will be paid twice a year along with Dublin homeowners’ property taxes.
The annual wastewater service charges will appear on Dublin residents’ property tax bills starting this fall. The annual wastewater service charges for July 1st, 2008 - June 30, 2009 are reported to be as follows:
- Single family home: $292.08/year
- Townhouse or condominium: $202.56/year
One thing to note is that Read more
10 Tips for a Healthier Tri-Valley Home
May 11, 2008
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the air in some US homes is two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Pollutants can be generated from a variety of items-cigarette smoke, too-high levels of carbon monoxide, cooking residue, pet dander, radon, dust, and mold spores. And the fact that homes are generally closed tight during winter months can aggravate the problem with little to no fresh air from the outdoors.
Here is a checklist of the 10 Tips that your family can use for a healthier home.
- Keep windows open to gain a flow of fresh air.
- Vent cook-tops to the outside and use the exhaust fan while cooking.
- Discard all unnecessary household hazardous waste and chemicals to the appropriate locations. If you do store containers, make sure they are sealed tightly.
- Make sure all required rooms have smoke detectors
- Consider purchasing carbon monoxide detectors.
- Regularly vacuum or clean carpets, rugs, cloth furniture, drapes, bed comforters and blankets.
- Don’t forget to change your air intake filters (furnace filters). Consider getting filters that help reduce allergens.
- Have the gas supply company check your entire home for possible leaks.
- Make sure to keep showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilets caulked, grouted (if applicable) and sealed.
- Having a home or termite (pest) inspection periodically can help identify current issues and prevent future problems from arising.
Property Tax Reduction in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties?
May 5, 2008
Alameda county residents may be the first to see their property taxes reduced by the end of this year. Many more households are expected to follow. However, the result may be a negative impact for school districts and city and county governments. Here is the latest on this on-going scenario regarding a possible property tax reduction for some Tri-Valley homes and the surrounding area.
Related Post: Could a Home’s Decline in Value Create a Lowered Tax Base?
Inspections - A Wise Idea?
April 24, 2008
How do I put this? YYEEEESSSSSS!!! Everyone knows at least one person who’s done it. You know, that person who purchased a home without doing at least one or a thorough set of inspections. Someone who moved in and then found out months later their home was riddled with unknown issues. How about the couple that moved into a home only to discover a room existed with a toxic mold issue?
Buying a home is one of the most important and expensive decisions you will make. It is always a wise idea to obtain Read more
