Many new potential buyers of Oakland homes for sale, have a general idea of what they want in their future home in terms of price, location, yard space, square footage, etc..  Often, they will begin their search by touring Open Homes in various neighborhoods to get a sense of what is available.  Many times, they will begin these tours before choosing an agent to represent them.  Even when you have chosen me as your agent, these tours that you took were always a good thing to do.  

When you, as a potential buyer, began your search, you were given an MLS (Multiple Listing Service) informational sheet at each home that you visited.  What you may not have realized, is just how valuable this sheet is to you, and to me, as your agent, when deciding…

3209 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

You have been looking for a home for a while, and now you have found an Oakland home that meets you needs.  You are very anxious to buy it, and very much want the offer to be effective enough to attract the seller's attention, especially in this current marketplace where you know the competition for available inventory is quite high. Bidding wars for some homes are not uncommon.

The important thing, to assure that you will be considered by the seller, is that your offer stand out, and thus be acted upon promptly.

In working with me as your real estate agent, you have taken an important first step.  I am experienced in the Bay area marketplace, and very comfortable with negotiating.  Together, we will make a plan to put together an outstanding…

1704 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

       

 

The city of Oakland has more than 100 neighborhoods--some are quite big, and some are surprisingly small.  Each is unique in character, history and home design.  In some areas, there will be homes that are entirely single family ranch, while in others, they are super modern, and sit atop a high hill with unfettered views of San Francisco.  Some neighborhoods offer a rich cultural history, and others brag about their very unique shops, stores and restaurants. 

 

   To get you started on your search for a home or condominium, I have created a list of some neighborhoods that may interest you. While there are more, of course, this should give you a strong sense of your many choices.  DISCOVER OAKLAND NEIGHBORHOODS & HOMES FOR…

1841 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

In just a few years Oakland, San Leandro and other East Bay homes have become affordable to many first time home buyers. The median price of Bay Area homes has continued to drop from $720,000 in the spring of 2007 to the current $295,000 median price of homes sold in Feb 2008.  The majority of these homes have been REOs(bank owned) and short sale (pre- foreclosure) listings but these have also brought down the price of surrounding owner occupied homes as well. Additional changes in lending practices and the $8000 federal tax credit have also stimulated buying in many neighborhoods. Maxwell Park, Laurel, and Dimond neighborhoods have seen plenty of buyers looking to get into these areas.  Some houses are selling for over $200,000 less than they were just…

2231 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post