Have you ever wanted to tour some of the beautiful homes that you have seen when in Piedmont?  Well, over the years, and this year, an event is held that affords one the opportunity to see both the interior and gardens of some of the most attractive homes in the city. 

Each year, The Children's Support League arranges tours of especially selected homes in the city through its "Heart of the Home Tour".  In addition to the tours, they sponsor a Pop Up Boutique, a delightful raffle, and offer gourmet lunches.  The event allow you a leisurely trip through each chosen home, many of which have be beautifully decorated by local designers to highlight the rooms that you will visit. 

All proceeds generated from this event benefit organzations in…

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You may have noticed over the last year or so, the intensive and complete renovation of 312 Sheridan Avenue.  It has been really exciting watching this Piedmont gem be transformed back to its former glory.

Just recently put on the market after being owned by only two prior families, it is a wonderful old home, circa 1920, with a fresh modern rehabilitation.  The owner had originally intended to restore the house for his parents and extended family to live in, but, upon the family's visit, they realized that it was just too large, and had too many stairs for them to manage.  With that plan out the window, they decided to continue with a full restoration, and put the house on the market. 

As was the mode with houses a hundred years ago, rooms were…

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Adams Point neighborhood near Lake Merritt in Oakland

The Adams Point neighborhood of Oakland sits just above the northern end of scenic Lake Merritt. For buyers looking for a condominium in one of Oakland’s most convenient central locations, Adams Point is one of the first areas worth considering.

Adams Point offers a strong mix of location, walkability, and access to daily amenities. From many parts of the neighborhood, residents can reach Grand Avenue, Lakeshore Avenue, Lake Merritt, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, coffee shops, restaurants, and neighborhood services without needing to drive everywhere. That combination has made Adams Point especially popular with condo buyers who want an Oakland lifestyle close to the lake and downtown.

Grand Avenue and Lakeshore Avenue are two of the area’s biggest…

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There are so many reasons for considering buying a condominium, and, right now, in the Oakland area, there are an amazing number of condos and lofts available in every possible price range. Many are located in or near the downtown area among colorful artist studios, wonderful and imaginative restaurants, and handy work and transportation sources.

This would be an excellent time to put this purchase of a loft or condo into your real estate plans.  Here are some benefits of owning either:

1. Lofts or Condos tend to be an excellent first step to getting into the real estate market.  Their initial price is reasonable, and even with homeowner association fees, the monthly cost can beat a single family home for those just entering the housing market. …

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Some of the most beautiful homes in the Bay Area are on Seaview in Piedmont. p1010530_400

I frequently  walk up and down the street and gaze at these masterpieces of architecture and grandeur. But, whether you are walking, jogging or biking, the experience is totally worthwhile.  When you are done, why not have lunch in the park at the corner of Hampton and Seaview? You'll thank me later.

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There will be a big fund raising gala for the East Bay Children's Choir this coming Saturday, March 1st at HS Lordships at the Berkeley Marina.  It promises to be an amazing evening.  Guests are able to view the stunning San Francisco Bay views out the restaurant window while enjoying the activities developed around the theme of "Joyful Voices Speakeasy Gala".

There will be dining, dancing, and excellent musical entertainment performed by the PEBCC staff and alumni.  The music will be of 1920's to 1930's vintage, and featured performers include Broadway Baby Lauren Eigenbrode, Clifton Masey and Kate Offer.  They will be sharing the stage with the Nick Culp Jazz Quintet.

There will be a live auction hosted by KCBS "Foodie Chap" Liam Mayclem, and…

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If you are interested in selling your Alameda home quickly, and have a buyer that has yet to take the final step to committing to purchase, you may want to consider these suggestions below.  Most of these steps involve a financial reward to this motivated buyer, but if you are anxious to move ahead, and are financially comfortable taking these steps, you may be surprised at the results.  Here are some tips to consider:

1.Offer To Pay For The Home Inspection And/Or The Resultant Repairs Needed--Usually, it is the buyer who will pay for the home inspections as a way to insure that all is going to be well with the new home.  They also like working with their own inspector, rather than the seller's.  Work with the buyer either way. Negotiate who will…

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If you are new to Piedmont, whether you come from nearby San Francisco, or across the continent from the New England area, you most certainly should discover the Piedmont Neighbors and Newcomers Club (PNNC). Their goal is to make their newest neighbors comfortable and involved with the community.  The good news is that you can participate in  as many activities as your schedule will permit- since there is such a variety-or you can choose to attend just a few things throughout the year.   Also, you can stay with the club as long as you like.  It is not restricted to newcomers, and many of your neighbors are long time members.   

Their events are scheduled both as evening and daytime events, so that attending the ones that interest you is easier. …

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Onr of the most effective tools in staging your home for sale is the act of "decluttering".  If you have lived in your Oakland or Piedmont home for any period of time, you have started to accumulate all kinds of books, toys, storage boxes full of papers, etc.. that you find handy and comfortable while living there.  When you put you home on the market, however, you will need to address this issue of crowded or cluttered rooms before you show it. 

Why is this important? Why bother?  There are two very important reasons for taking the time:

a. Buyers Need to Envision How Your Home Will Fit Their Needs--They need to see a simple presentation of each room.  They don't want to see an old football trophy, or an award given for raising Boy Scout funds…

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If you are looking for a pleasant evening out, and want to support nearby small merchants and artists, the Piedmont Avenue Stroll is just for you.  Held on the third Thursday of every month, this is a neighborhood oriented event designed to attract Oakland and Piedmont residents to get to know their local businesses and artists who are, literally, just around the corner.  

Each month, participating businesses and artists invite you to visit them from 6:00-9:00 p.m.. Many offer special discounts or promotions to make your shopping experience even more worthwhile.  Late night entertainment is available as well after the promotional hours.  Those merchants participating can be identified by a bright yellow flag in front of their shop. 

There is a…

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