BLOG - Marin Real Estate

This was originally posted on May 21, 2011 Novato.Patch.com

While dramas are playing out on different stages, and emotions run high in Novato causing much debate and anguish among Novatans on issues related to safety, schools and the city, a handful of volunteers quietly ran one of the most successful fundraisers for Novato schools.

With 257 registered riders from 16 public schools and 2344 donors; the Tour of Novato and FunFair fundraiser, held on one glorious April day, raised over $93,000 for Novato public schools!

It was quite an amazing sight witnessing the excitement going on around the registration table.  Riders signing in, taking off for a fun and healthy hour or two to fundraise for their schools.  Bicycles, unicycle (one), double bicycles, bicycles with backseat and trailers; serious bikers with full biking gears and recreational riders with T-shirts and sneakers; young and old riders; and generations of riders streaming through the gorgeous West Marin landscape on a couldn’t be more perfect spring day!

Some schools heavily promoted the event, seeing this as a fun and effective way to raise fund while others dismissed it.  Either way, it was exciting watching running totals going up; especially during the last week of the fundraising period.  Being the third year for Tour of Novato, we are seeing more teachers, students and staff riding, making it a fun day to be involved with the schools and the community that support them.

Chart Leader Eileen Smith, Principal of Loma Verde Elementary, rode the Long Route (36.5 miles) in her 3^rd year riding, raised $3,837, exceeding her goal of $3,000.  The funds raised will be used for iPads because the applications will allow our students to enhance reading fluency, reading comprehension, math skills and problem solving in the classrooms.  With its principal leading the fundraising efforts, Loma Verde came in first and raised over $15,000.

Heather Ophir, a San Ramon parent, Zumba Fitness Instructor, also rode the long route, came in second, raised $3,020 for her school with a very simple belief – Every Penny Counts! She reached beyond her immediate network to raise $5 or $10 at a time, her impressive list of supporters helped her far exceeded her goal of $2,000.

You don’t need to be an adult to effectively fundraise.  Calvin Hersey, a 12-year-old Hill Middle School student, instead of grieving the school closure; decided to raise fund for both Hill and his new school, Sinaloa. According to his page, Calvin loves bike riding ("Bike riding is how I roll").  He also rode the long route.  Love his quote: “We are what we repeatedly do, excellence, therefore is not an act but a habit." I know Calvin is going to be successful in anything he sets his mind to.

Other than this very healthy way to fundraise, booths were set up to entertain and educate the students at the FunFair; such as GeoCache Treasure Hung, San Marin Music Instrument Petting Zoo, Novato Sanitary District and Novato Disposal jointly presented their zero waste program, San Marin Robotics showcasing their robots, Marin School of Arts exhibits and face painting, Sunrise Rotary Club Mini Carnival, Mike's Bikes doing bike tune up, NUSD nutrition services showcase school menu, Novato Theater educating Novatans about the plan for downtown theater. To ensure the safety of the riders and participants, Novato Police and Novato Fire were both on hand for safety helmet checks and emergency services.

Let’s not forget the tireless organizers and volunteers who seem to support every Novato School event.  Not ones to complain, they do this willingly and steadfastly, with no hidden agenda, other than the love they have for the children of Novato and the belief that with the support of the community, we can give our children the best we can offer.  They believe in Working Together to Build a Strong Community!

For the ones with doubt, I wish you were there to witness the GOOD, the LOVE, the BELIEF and the EXCITEMENT that’s in the AIR about Novato and Novato’s future!

To see pictures of the Tour and FunFair, please click here and here.

To submit your photos of the event, email pictures to School Fuel

We continue to take donations and I hope you can find in your heart to donate $5, $10 at a time to our kids - Until May 25^th – Go to www.TourofNovato.org

San Francisco Bay Area resident are quietly anticipating a snow storm (on the sea level) this weekend.  If not, an extremely cold and wet weekend.

With yet another storm system approaching Northern California, PG&E offers these tips to customers to help them stay safe during a power outage.

PG&E Storm Safety Tips

Call 911 for Downed Lines
Your safety is our first concern. If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and keep yourself and others away. Call 911 immediately to report the location of the downed line then 1-800-743-5002, PG&E's 24-Hour Emergency and Customer Service Line. During and after a storm, please keep away from flooded areas and downed trees, as these areas could be hiding an energized power line.

Preparing for Power Outages
Have battery-operated flashlights and radios with fresh batteries ready. Listen for updates on storm conditions and power outages.

If you have a telephone system that requires electricity to work (such as a cordless phone or answering machine), plan for alternate communication - have a standard telephone handset, cellular telephone or pager ready as a back up.

Freeze plastic containers filled with water to make blocks of ice that can be placed in your refrigerator/freezer during an outage to prevent foods from spoiling.

Safety Tips
Treat all downed power lines as if they are "live" or energized. Keep yourself and others away from them. Call 911, then notify PG&E at 1-800-743-5002.

Use battery-operated flashlights, not candles.
Customers with generator should make sure they are properly installed by a licensed electrician. Improperly installed generators pose a significant danger to our crews.

Unplug or turn off all electric appliances to avoid overloading circuits and fire hazards when power is restored. Simply leave a single lamp on to alert you when power returns. Turn your appliances back on one at a time when conditions return to normal.

Report a Power Outage: 1-800-743-5002
Before calling PG&E about a power outage, check to see if other neighbors are affected. This would confirm if an outage has occurred in just your residence or within the neighborhood area.

If only your residence is without power, check circuit breakers and/or fuse boxes to see if the problem is limited to the home electric system.

After performing the steps above, single or neighborhood outages can be reported to: PG&E's 24-Hour Emergency and Customer Service Line: 1-800-743-5002

Once your outage has been reported, you can call PG&E's Outage Information Line at 1-800-743-5002 to get a status report on your outage and the anticipated time your power will be turned back on.

If you lose power overnight, you can call PG&E to request a wake-up call. We'll be happy to give you a wake-up call, as well as up-to-date information on your outage and time of restoration.

PG&E's phone lines may become very busy during major storms, so we ask for your patience if you are trying to reach us.

Tis the season to be jolly, and what more fun than go out and search for amazing Christmas lights in the neighborhood to celebrate the season; an event enjoyed by people with all faiths; kids and adults alike!

Moving to Novato, Marin, CA 11 years ago; with kids then in elementary schools; we were immediately introduced to the 'Christmas House' in the Pleasant Valley neighborhood. 

Eveybody asked:"Have you seen the Christmast House?", "You can't miss that". "Can you believe that they do this every year?"    If one does not go, one has not lived here in Novato!

We went, and the Christmas House does not disappoint.  Decorated to the 9s, inside and out; in the yard, on the rooftop; and how about the Jones?  The neighbors are semi-up to the challenge, and good-heartedly participate ---- can't be left too far behind.

Devonshire, a nice, quiet neighborhood in Pleasant Valley schools area, becomes a magnet during the Christmas season; we will even see a few tour buses from the city every year; people quietly line up along the street, in awe, as always!

Yes, for my Real Estate colleagues, buyers and sellers; this is such a big draw that we actually make this an item to be disclosed; which usually bring ensuasiastic, happy smiles to all parties involved!  

_________________________________________________________

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Real Estate
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

 MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA REAL ESTATE - Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa. Starter Home to Luxury Property. REO (Bank Owned), Short Sale, View Homes, Architecural Distictive Homes. Investment, 1031 Exchange. Chinese Realtor.

Buying or Selling a home and need to order a city resale inspection or clarify items on Novato City Resale Inspection report?  Planning a remodel or upgrade to your home? Questions about permit issued, permit required, permit cost; correction actions (new permit, finalize permit, demonishment, code enforcement, code compliance); procedures, documents, forms, costs,.. etc, etc.

Any other city related needs and/or activities?

For seniors who need a place to go and meet during the holidays or organizations that need a place to meet or hold parites, fairs, classes?  

All that and more ... Make sure you plan your activities around the city office closure dates posted 12/01/10 and notifications sent 12/03/10. 

City Offices - Holiday Closures

ADDRESS	DATES CLOSED
75 Rowland Way (Administrative offices)	Friday, December 17, 2010 thru Friday, December 31, 2010
Margaret Todd Senior Center	Monday, December 20, 2010 thru Friday, December 31, 2010
Gymnastics Center	Monday, December 20, 2010 thru Friday, December 31, 2010

All City Administrative offices and facilities, except the Police Department, will be closed for at least the last two weeks in December due to the holidays and employee furloughs. The Police Department will operate as normal.

As always call 911, if there is a life threatening emergency. In case of a non-life threatening emergency during this period, please call the Police Department at 897-4361.

All offices will re-open on Monday, January 3, 2011 at 9:00 AM

Dogbone Meadows Dog Park in Novato, Marin County, located en route to Stafford Lake and West Marin, is probably the best dog park in Marin County, or maybe even California.  Dogs often bring their human when they are on the way to the beaches; but mostly, when they just feel that their human need to socialize with other nice human while they check out their friends and use the exercise equipments.  

Built by dog loving volunteer human (or shall we say, slaves of dogs), the property is around 1 acre, with tracks for dogs and human alike, and toys for dogs only (first thing first).  The backdrop is Open Space, part of O'Hare Park, great hiking, horseback riding trails.  Fireman's Fund Insurance Company, one of Novato's largest employers, has generously donated funds to maintain the park after City of Novato budget cuts.  This is a place that epitomizes the generosity and the spirit of volunteerism of Novato community. 

This is a morning with unusual heavy fog from West Marin, a beautiful background for the dog park. 

Duke (black, rescued from 2nd Chance Rescue) and Hunter (Golden) love to come here in the morning - Duke, after dropping his brother off at San Marin High School, and Hunter, after dragging his mom for his daily 2 hour walk and play (can't say Hunter does not have a GREAT life, even Duke is envious of him!) - Hunter will chase the tennis ball and Duke will run along Hunter

Makes Happy Dogs and Happy people when their dogs are tired the rest of the day!   

It's a foggy morning, but I thought it's interesting, so I snapped the pictures.  

 Dogbone Dog Park in Novato, Marin County - where all the Happy Dogs are! 

Duke is one HAPPY Dog at Dogbone Dog Park :-)

Duke and Hunter waiting for Hunter's mom to throw the ball.

Time to chase the ball!

Duke's best friend, Hunter, whose only passion is chasing the tennis ball!

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Luxury Real Estate 
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors 
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

SERVING MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA - FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa.

Thinking that maybe you are paying more than your share of Property Tax? 

Marin county property owners can apply for re-assessment of their property tax annually for a slight relief.  

The filing period is July 2 through November 1, 2010.

This is to request an informal review of the assessment of your property if you feel that the market value of your home is less than the assessed value as of January 1, 2010.  If approved by the county, your property tax for the coming year will be lower based on the lower assessed property value - note that this will be a temporary reduction.

You will need to provide the county with three properties that sold close to January 1, 2010 and no later than March 31, 2010.  You will then be able to provide your opinion on the value of your home based on the properties selected. 

Please click oh the link for the Marin County Property Informal Assessment Review Request Form.

The form has to be postmarked before 4PM, November 1, 2010 to be accepted.

Please let me know if you have any questions or if you need assistance to fill out the form. 

Every little bit help counts!

A relief for homeowners with deficiency on thier refinanced original mortgage loans and who are now facing foreclosure is one the way -

According to news just released by California Association of Realtors on August 19, 2010 that CA State Assembly passes SB 1178 protecting homeowners:

 The bill essentially allows homeowners who defaulted on the mortgage that are part of refinance of the original purchase debt to limit their liability to the property itself; same as the treatment of the original ‘purchase money’ loan.

The bill moves to Government Schwarzenegetter for signature and if signed, will become effective June 2011.

This Only Makes Sense!

Following is the Press Release:

For release:

Thursday, Aug. 19, 2010

California State Assembly passes SB 1178 protecting homeowners

Measure protecting consumers from overreaching lenders now goes to governor’s desk for signature

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 19) – The California State Assembly today approved SB 1178 (D-Corbett) by a 49 to 14 vote, extending anti-deficiency protection for consumers who have refinanced their original mortgage loans and now are facing foreclosure. The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) is the sponsor of the consumer-protection legislation.

Under existing law, if a homeowner defaults on a mortgage used to purchase a home-commonly referred to as a “purchase money mortgage”-the homeowner’s liability on the mortgage is limited to the property itself. However, homeowners who refinanced the original purchase debt, even if only to obtain a lower interest rate, were not extended the same protections. SB 1178 corrects this unfairness and extends the same protections to consumers who refinance their home loans.

“Cash-out” debt for home improvement or consumer expenses is not protected by SB 1178. Similarly, additional new debt secured by the home, such as a home improvement loan, is not protected-only original acquisition debt.

“Today’s vote was a victory for homeowners in California, but the fight is not yet finished,” said C.A.R. President Steve Goddard. “We are urging Gov. Schwarzenegger to swiftly sign into law this crucial piece of legislation. Passage of SB 1178 will ensure lenders underwrite refinance loans at least as carefully as purchase money mortgages and will provide much-needed consumer protection.”

SB 1178 now moves to Gov. Schwarzenegger for his signature. If signed, SB 1178 will become effective June 2011.

Leading the way…® in California real estate for more than 100 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (www.car.org) is one of the largest state trade organizations in the United States with nearly 160,000 members dedicated to the advancement of professionalism in real estate. C.A.R. is headquartered in Los Angeles. ###

The dry and mild weather summer time in Marin county is a great time for homeowners to do maintenance work outdoors; whether it is lawn maintenance, garden planting, tree pruning, painting, or cleaning up an old, discolored deck or siding.  Summer is a perfect time for all that wonderful activities to keep our house in tip-top conditon.  

Most of the vendors I know have, at one time or another, recommended powerwashing decks, siding, et; but an article I read from one of the top Real Estate site mentioned that a deck or siding should NEVER get power washed in order to preserve the wood. 

I tell my neighbors. I tell my clients. I tell everybody who will listen. NEVER pressure wash a deck! When the pressure-wash companies send their college kids to knock on my door to "wash" my deck, I tell them why they should not be doing that to decks! When I see their trucks*, they advertise cleaning decks, patios, siding, roofs - you name it! Don't do it!

But why, you asked?

When my clients make an offer on a house, I always advise them that we need to have a pre-approval letter from his lender along with the offer in order for the offer to be accepted by the seller. 

This was true when lenders were giving away loans like there was no tomorrow, and this is even more critical now a days when the lenders are going thru loan applications with a very fine comb.  Sellers want to have the confidence that a buyer are financially qualified to purchase their home before they accept the offer.

My clients will then ask me what is a pre-approval letter.  I can generally give a good explanation but I am really glad to read an article by a mortgage broker on a leading real estate site explaining the three types of loan letters which is listed below:   

• Pre-Qualification Letter: Loan Officer pulls credit, and inquires about income and maybe bank information. From that the Loan Officer makes a quick determination as to whether the Borrower could possibly qualify for a Loan up to a certain dollar amount.
  
• Pre-Approval Letter: Loan Officer pulls credit, inquires about income and bank information, takes a full Loan Application, may or may not collect some documentation like paystubs. Runs all this information through Underwriter or Loan Processor along with a hypothetical Sales Price, and looks for an Approved/Eligible or Accept.
  
• Loan Commitment Letter: The Loan Officer does everything that he or she would do if there was a property, pulls credit, collects all necessary documents, Borrower signs a Loan Application along with disclosures, and everything is submitted into Underwriting. Everything that would be done for an actual Loan would be done except for an Appraisal, because there isn't a property yet. The Underwriter then issues a Loan Commitment Letter up to a certain dollar amount, based on a property being able to appraise later once a property is found.

Part of valuations the lenders does is to figure out the debt to income ratio a borrower has which equates to all debt payments a buyer has to make each month vs their income allowing lenders to know whether a buyer can comfortably afford a loan or not. 

This is also the reason why there needs to be a loan contingency period allowing time for lenders to do detailed check on the borrowers before they will commit the fund to the purchase.  Only after the lenders is committed to make the loan can a loan contingency be removed.

Any more detail?  Ask your Mortgage Broker :-)

_________________________________________________________

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Real Estate
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

 MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA REAL ESTATE - Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa. Starter Home to Luxury Property. REO (Bank Owned), Short Sale, View Homes, Architecural Distictive Homes. Investment, 1031 Exchange. Chinese Realtor.

Living in Marin and Sonoma Count, San Francisco North Bay, and for that matter, the San Francisco Bay Area as well as the entire state of California, we are constant on "High Fire Alert" during the dry summer seasons.

With the state budget cut, which deeply affected the state, county park as well as municipal fire department budgets, it is with even more urgency that homeowners heed to the advise and guidelines on how to prepare yours homes for the fire season during the next few months.

In 2008, San Francisco Chronicle published an article highlighing what builders in the Oakland Hills did while rebuilding homes after the 1991 Oakland Fire. The Oakland Fire "ultimately killed 25 people and injured 150 others. The 1,520 acres (6.2 km²) destroyed included 2,843 single-family dwellings and 437 apartment and condominium units. The economic loss has been estimated at $1.5 billion."

Along with the article, S.F. Chronicle included a partial list of checklist developed by (of all the places) Travis County, Texas about what how to prepare for a fire:

I am following suit and quoting below:

Wildfire Preparedness Check List

The more "yes" answers you have, the more prepared you are in the event of a wildfire threat.

The House

• Fire-resistant roof i.e. metal, tile, composition?
• Non-flammable siding materials?
• Home is located down-slope?
• Wooden deck facing or overhanging level ground?
• Large glass windows, facing level ground?
• Deck, porch, vents or house screened to keep sparks out?
• Chimney extending above the roofline?
• Chimney spark arrester in place?
• Roof and gutters clean of debris?

Around the House

• A fire defensible space (D-space) zone of 30 - 100 ft?
• Adequate clearance of weeds, tall grasses and brush?
• Leaves raked?
• Trees pruned 10 ft up from base of trunk?
• Debris cleared from beneath trees and near structures?
• Tree limbs pruned at least 10 ft from roof or within 15 ft laterally from chimney?
• House location or address clearly marked (3 inch letters)?
• Small amounts of mulch used near wooden structures?
• Firewood and other burnable items stored at least 30 ft from the house?

Access

• Easy access to home by emergency vehicles?
• Road grade less than 15% (not steep)?
• Road wide and accommodating to two-way traffic?
• Road straight with wide turns?
• Large areas for vehicles to turn around?
• Short driveway from main road?
• Home area level and easily plowed or raked for fire line?
• Multiple roads into and out of developed area for safe and easy access and evacuation?

Water Supply

• Pressurized hydrants available?
• Non-pressurized or dry hydrants available?
• Water sources such as ponds or streams accessible?
• Power lines buried and not susceptible to fire?
• Well pumps maintained with uninterrupted electricity?

Ten Quick and Easy Steps to Prepare for a Wildfire

1. Cut grass and weeds, rake leaves and pine needles and remove yard debris and branches.

2. Relocate woodpile and left over building materials at least 30' from house.
NOTE: It is best to not locate the woodpile directly uphill or downhill of any structure.

3. Signs, address and access are well marked, and visible both night and day. Reflective numbering/lettering that is 3" or larger is recommended.

4. Prune dead and low-hanging tree limbs 6 to 10 feet from the ground around house. Remove all dead vegetation in brush and shrubbery.

5. Store all gas, oil and other chemicals away from the house. This includes propane tanks on BBQ pits.

6. Keep roof and gutters free from leaves and needles.

7. Enclose spaces under porches, decks, foundations and overhangs, and roof/attic vent openings with 1/8" metal screening.

8. Have garden hoses connected on all sides of your house.

9. Place tools (such as ladders, shovels, rakes and hoes) for easy access to fire fighters.

10. Check driveway for adequate clearance for emergency vehicles. (Both height and width).

_________________________________________________________

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Real Estate
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

 MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA REAL ESTATE - Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa. Starter Home to Luxury Property. REO (Bank Owned), Short Sale, View Homes, Architecural Distictive Homes. Investment, 1031 Exchange. Chinese Realtor.

July 1, 2010 - Updated - US Senate Passed the Bill and it's now being signed by President Obama

June 29, 2010 - US House extends Closing Deadline for First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit to 09/30/10 if they are in contract as of 04/30/10.  The homebuyer has to be in contract before 04/30/2010 and now close by 09/30/10 (instead of 06/30/10). 

This bill is going to the congress and is expected to pass. 

This is in part due to the slow process by the lenders and loan servicers during the loan approval and loan funding process where two months escrow might not suffice to close escrow.   

However, I also fee the benefits to First Time Homebuyer in contract on Short Sale properties due to the notorious slowness in lender approval of short sales.  Hopefully the ones that are in contract on short sale as of 04/30/10 will also get the up to $8,000 tax credit if they close by 09/30/10.

There is also the California Tax Credit of up to $10,000 which expires 12/31/10 - unlike the federal tax credit, this tax credit has to be claimed over a three year period.

San Marin Improvement Association (SMIA - www.SanMarin.org ), a north Novato neighborhood of 1,700+ homes just north and south of San Marin Drive in Novato, hosted it's 4th annual Classic Car Exposition on May 22, 2010.

SMIA is a neighborhood association formed to safeguard San Marin neighborhood and to build community relationships through social event.

Some of the SMIA's accomplishments are:  

• Purchase and protect Mt. Burdell, which is now a designated Open Space in Marin County
• Fend off building plans / zonings that do not agree with the neighborhood (recent accomplishment - the redeisn of the lot on the corner of San Marin Drive and San Andreas Drive

SMIA also conucts annual social events to foster neighborhood spirit:

• San Marin Neighborhood Social
• Easter Egg Hunt & Community Picnic
• San Marin Neighborhood Social
• Community Garage Sales
• Halloween Parade
• Santa by Sleigh
• Classic Car Exposition

The Class Car Exposition is the brainchild of Andrew Sinclair, past board member of SMIA and a classic car enthusiast.  He devoted his time organizing and running this exposition to raise fund for SMIA.  The show has attracted many local and regional classic car owners.  

All Saints Church generously donated the ground for the show and their youth group served BBQ to raise fund for their youth group activities.

Hope you enjoy this video of the Exposition.   

CASUAL ELEGANT LIVING

2463 Vineyard Road, Novato

www.2463Vineyard.com

In the prestigious area of Vineyard Road, just West of Wild Horse Valley, finds this casual, comfortable yet elegant home for discriminating buyers.

* Fabulous property with panoramic views situated on 1/2 acre lot with pool and spa;

* Tastefully remodeled single story main house with a separate legal unit. Main house has 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2790sf. The separate unit, which can be used as office, studio or in-law, has 1 bedroom and 1 bath;

* Open floor plan with gourmet kitchen, formal living room, formal dining room, cozy family room and beautiful raised hearth fireplace;

* Family room and living room open through French doors to a large back deck shaded by a heritage black walnut tree and over overlooking the pool and spa and views of distant surrounding hills;

* Inviting entry with slate tile floors accented by inlaid glass highlights accessed through a custom, three-level glass door which allows abundant light with needed privacy;

* Custom designed gourmet kitchen has honed granite slab counters, honed marble center island with sink and breakfast bar, tumble marble tile backsplash, custom cherry, stainless steel facing cabinets and shelves, stainless steel appliances - built-in Subzero 48" refrigerator with wine rack above, six burner Wolf range, trash compactor, oversize, extra deep stainless steel sink, garden window and skylight;

* Casual living room and dining room share a raised hearth slate tile fireplace providing warmth on cool evenings. French doors open to large central deck;

* Huge master suite has vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, intriguing ceiling design ready for up-lights, relaxing window seats and a wall of custom designed built-in closets with organizers. Oversized master bath has his and her limestone vanities, relaxing limestone soaking spa tub and separate shower with rain head;

* Second bedroom and guest bed/office share a Jack and Jill limestone bathroom with oversized shower;

* Comfortable family room, media-wired for surround sound and media entertainment, has large French doors which open to central deck and cozy back porch. Views of sparkling pool, tranquil backyard and surrounding hillsides;

* Cottage in the back has a living area, bedroom/office with built-in shelves and desk, and a charming bathroom with beautiful tile floor, pedestal sink and enclosed shower;

* Designer paint, hardware, recessed lights throughout. Skylights, ceiling fans. Wood floor in living, dining, hallway and kitchen. Pella casement windows and French doors with distinctive trims. Separate laundry room has plenty of storage and room to organize the laundry;

* Award winning schools! Close to hiking, biking, horseback riding facilities, O’Hair Park, Stafford Lake, Mr. Burdell, Rolling Hills Club, and more!

It's been quite sometime since I published a Novato Markret Overview.  As I have told interested parties - the market is hopping for homes that are entry level homes, attractive to both first time home buyers and investos; but can be quite challenging for high-end or move-up homes.

Vey clear drop in % in escrow happens between $700K and $800K, with a steep drop from sellers market to buyers market; this might have something to do with the Jumbo Conforming loan cut off point of $729K.

However, homes are very competitively priced and in great conditon can go into escrow quickly, no matter where the price point is.

	Novato Market Overview
	Week of May 27, 2010
	# of Total Units			% of Total			Market
	# Total Units	# In Escrow		% Active	% In Escrow
Type
SFDs	255	98		62%	38%		N
CIDs	89	47		47%	53%		S
All SFDs and CIDs	344	145		58%	42%		S
SFD by Price Range
$0-$500K	55	32		42%	58%		S
$500,001-$600K	38	16		58%	42%		S
$600,001-$700K	38	16		58%	42%		S
$700,001-$800K	36	19		47%	53%		S
$800,001-$999,999	36	7		81%	19%		B
$1M - $1.25M	20	3		85%	15%		B
$1.25M - $1.5M	17	3		82%	18%		B
$1.5M+	13	2		85%	15%		B
TOTAL SFDs	253	98		61%	39%		N
% in Contract	Type of Market
Less than 25%	Buyers Market
25% to 40%	Neutral Market
Greater than 40%	Sellers Market

• Multi-Family Complexes:  Complexes with central collection bins must request Cleanup Week collection service. Call Novato Disposal at 897-4177 no later than Sept. 17.

• A maximum of 14 bags, boxes or cans may be placed at the curb
• A maximum of 2 cubic yards of material will be collected.

•Loose items will not be collected. All material must be contained.

• Oversized, heavy, or prohibited items will not be removed

• No rock, dirt, bricks, concrete, tires, wood or asphalt.
• Items must be less than three feet in any dimentsion and must weight less than 60 lbs.  
• No Sofas, tables, mattresses or other large items. 

• Hazardous waste will not be collected cubside: 

• No hazardous waster will be collected curbside: no propane tanks, televisions and computer monitors or :e-waste".  Visit www.novatodisposal.com or call  892-7344 for e-waste collection and hazardous waster information.

• Call Novato Disposal at 897-4177 by April 7 for collection of appliances, such as washers, stoves, microwaves, water heaters and refrigerators. A $30 fee is charged for collection of any refrigeration unit. All other appliances will be billed at $15 each. The fee will be added to your garbage bill. Refrigerator doors must be taped, tied or otherwise securely closed for child safety reason.

• Keep all recyclable items separate from cleanup debris. Recycle in your blue cart or at a recycling center.

Questions?  Call Novato Disposal at 897-4177

www.Novatodisposal.com

For a California First Time Homebuyer, if you time it right, and get into escrow on or before 04/30/2010 and close escrow between 05/01/2010 and 06/30/2010; you can get up to $18,000 Tax Credit.

How so, you asked ....

As a first time homebuyer, if you get into escrow on or before 04/30/2010, and close escrow before 06/30/2010; you get up to $8,000 tax credit from the federal government.  This credit can be applied to (or amended on) your 2009 Tax filing. 

For CA residences, Governor Schwarzenegger just signed into law that if you buy your first home and close escrow on or after 05/01/2010 and before 12/31/2010; you can get up to $10,000 tax credit back from CA.  This credit can be spread over 3 years.

So, if you time it right, as a first time home buyer, you can get up to $18,000 combined credit back from federal and CA.

Check with your Realtor and ask her to help you find the right home and use good strategy to help you get into escrow and close on the house within the time frame provided above!

Good luck and enjoy your new home and the extra cash back!  

The previous CA Home Buyers Tax Credit program was so successful, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill 183, the Homebuyer Tax Credit legislation, into law to stimulate housing market for first time homebuyers who purchase either existing homes or new constructions.  

AB 183 will provide $200 million for home buyer tax credits, allocating $100 million for qualified first-time home buyers of existing homes and $100 million for purchasers of new, or previously unoccupied, homes.

The eligible taxpayer who purchases a qualified personal residence on and after May 1, 2010, and on or before Dec. 31, 2010, or who purchases a qualified principal residence on and after Dec. 31, 2010, and before Aug. 1, 2011, pursuant to an enforceable contract executed on or before Dec. 31, 2010, will be able to take the allowed tax credit.

The credit is equal to the lesser of 5 percent of the purchase price or $10,000, in equal installments over three consecutive years. Under AB 183, purchasers will be required to live in the home for at least two years or forfeit the credit (i.e., repay it to the state).

The positive impact of the federal home buyer tax credit is clear. Nearly 40 percent of first-time home buyers said they would not have purchased a home if the federal tax credit for first-time home buyers was not offered, according to C.A.R. research conducted last year.

The state’s previous home buyer tax credit program was so successful that it ran out of tax credits by the end of June 2009, eight months before it was set to expire and just as housing markets appeared to be turning a corner. Unlike last year’s legislation, AB 183 adds a tax credit for the purchase of an existing home by a first-time home buyer.

AB 183 will significantly contribute to the effort to stimulate jobs-creation within California's housing market by helping to incentivize first-time home buyers to purchase homes that have been abandoned, foreclosed upon and returned to the lender, or have been sitting on the market for extended periods of time. It is these homes that will require substantial rehabilitation by the new owners, which will in turn generate a tremendous increase in jobs and accessory purchases connected to home improvement activities.

Today I saw a friend whom I haven’t see for three months and with whom we last discussed his dismal mortgage situation and trying for loan modification. And today, he said:”Guess Who's Got His Loan Modified!?"

I could not be happier when he told me yes, he got his loan modified!!! And with Bank of America no less (BofA has a not so great reputation when we negotiate short sales for our clients although I have seen a lot of improvements lately)!

This is a very nice young man who bought his house at the top of the market two years ago, got a 100% interest only loan and his interest adjusted to 7+ and 8+% respectively. Due to the decreaes in equity, he was not able to refinance. His mortgage was $4,000 a month when we talked last time, and he could hardly get by.

He bought this house to make a home for his young family and he wants to keep it, he does not want to short sale the home! He was quite worried.

He told me triumphantly that his new mortgage now has an interest rate of 3% for five years and then adjusts to 4% for the rest of the loan (25 years). His new mortgage is $2,000 a month!!!   The amount is less than what he would have paid in rent!

I asked if he had to pay somebody for this service, and he said that the good fellows at Marin Family Action helped in with all that and they did not charge him anything.

Marin Family Action is a volunteer organization with a new HOME SAVE PROJECT to help residents saving their homes. They also work closely with Marin Housing Authority, HUD; and their goals is to help prospective or current homeowners in housing related issues. 

Note that the service is FREE for low-income families and some fee might be charged depending on the income level to help subsidize the volunteer program. NEVER PAY UPFRONT for these kind of services without any guarantee from the service providers -there are just to many scams out there - we, the Realtors, being in the frontline, hear a lot of stories!

MAKE SURE YOU LOOK FOR HELP ON LOAN MODIFICATION FIRST before you short sale your home; contact organizations such as Marin Family Action or myself for help if needed.

I will be very glad to help you keep your house!

A leisurely stroll on Mt. Burdell, Marin Open Space, on a very fine, early spring day.

Sunny, warm, clear, air fresh, quiet, except for birds chirpping, grasses are green; shining with dew,flowers are budding and tiny leaves peeking out.  Water was flowing and Duke happily splashed in the stream.

We can see miles ahead all the way to the bay......

A picture perfect day!     

This is from the trailhead in Partridge Knolls .... there are many trailheads for Mt. Burdell in San Marin area, Novato, CA.

A gorgeous day at the Christmas Tree lot today at Saint Vincent's Boy's School in Marinwood, San Rafael, Marin County, CA.  This is one of my Rotary Club's (Rotary Club of Novato Sunrise) annual fundraiser. 

This year we have little helper, sure makes things go faster!

Missy (according to proud daddy, Rik Godell (Owner of Goodell Structural Services and past president of the Sunrise Rotary Club), turns five months old tomorrow, and she is just a bundle of energy, super sweet, and very, very smart, well behaved puppy.

The foreground is a field owned by a farmer.  We get to see cows grazing and wondering back for dinner; the background is Saint Vincent's Boys School's hills.  Many XMAS tree faithful come here every year just to help our Rotary club with the fundraising...Thanks!!!

Heading into the High Fire Season in Marin County, this seems to be a good time to reintroduce the guideline on how to mow the grass in Marin County, especially the properties that are next to Open Space. 

The guideline was established by the the Marin County Department of Parks and Open Space.

This letter is especially critical at this time of year when fire risk is increasing; especially since Marin county is agian, facing a very dry summer season.

The information below can be found on Marin County website Wildfire Safety Information as well.

Excerpt from Marin County Open Space District:

GUIDELINES FOR MOWING GRASS ON MARIN COUNTY OPEN SPACE DISTRICT LAND ADJACENT TO YOUR HOME

It is extremely important that your clearance work does not start a fire and that you follow the guidelines below:

Confirm that the property you want to mow is owned by the Marin County Open Space District, not your neighbor or another agency. Information on lot lines and property ownership is available at the County Assessor-Recorder's Office (499-7215, or go to http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/AR/main/index.cfm) and the County Community Development Agency (499-6269, or go to http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/CD/main/index.cfm).

• Mow only grass. If you wish to cut brush or trees on Open Space District lands, you will need a permit; please call the District field office at 415-507-2816.
• Never mow under high fire hazard RED FLAG conditions; call 415-499-7191 for current conditions.
• In the heat of summer, mow early in the morning or during the evening when it is cooler and less likely that you could start a fire. Use extra caution with power mowers or other spark-producing tools.
• Keep a 5-pound "ABC" fire extinguisher AND a fully charged garden hose at the work site while mowing or other work is taking place.
• Do not use metal mowing heads on power scythes (weed whips) as they can spark from contact with rocks.
• Make sure spark arrestors are in place and functioning.
• Do not lay power tools in dry grass where hot metals may ignite flammable vegetation.
• Re-fuel tools away from vegetation -- on paved surfaces or cleared areas. Store gasoline away from site.
• If possible, have someone spot you (keep a close watch) while you are working to watch for problems.
• Watch for hikers and other open space visitors; cease work until they are clear from the work area.

Information on the Open Space District is available on the internet at: http://www.marinopenspace.org.

For guidelines on fire protection, call your local fire agency or check the internet:

• Fire Safe Marin
  http://www.firesafemarin.org/
• Marin County Fire Prevention Officers
  http://www.marinfirechiefs.org/prevention
• FireWise
  http://www.firewise.org
• Marin County Fire Services
  http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/FR/main/fire/services.cfm#vmp
• City of Novato Fire Services
  http://www.novatofire.org/default.aspx
• FEMA - Wildfire brochure
  http://www.fema/gov/pdf/hazards/wfie.pdf

A semi uneventful but very busy week for the office, with one wonder property on the market - a deliberally priced low REO single family home next to Novato High School, lots of unfinished, unpermitted work.  The property commanded 23 offers in a few short days with several over asking, all cash offers.  Novato realtors are buzzing about this kind of trend for REO offers (other than one extremely low priced short sale home on Leland Drive a while back, none generated as much activity as this house).  

An experienced and knowledgable local Realtor is ultra important in guiding you through this new real estate maze - Check with your Realtor on how to spot, evaluate and make strategic offers in the current market! 

As you can see from the statistics below, percentage wise, there is not a lot of change within a week.  Howeve, the numbers give a good feeling about the market, although unusual, being somewhat stable. 

Novato, and for that matter, Marin county real estate are seeing an encouraging trend of more buyers out looking for homes.  As is the aboe case in mind - there will be 22 ready and willing buyers (many with all cash) for a bargain and yes, they jump on one when they see it!

% pending and Days on Market (DOM) continue to be skewed by the lingering short sale homes that have been in contract for a long time while waiting for lenders approval.  Ask Sylvia to research background of the properties you are interested in! 

Contact me at (415) 717-0293 or at sylvia@SylviaSellsMarin.com to discuss the market and the current trend, get familiar with the buying process, and start hunting for inventories on the market, whether REO, Trust Sale, start home, luxury homes.  Take time to see many homes so you know the right house when you see it!  It's never too late to get ready.      I will be very happy to find the best house / investment property for you! 

It will be my pleasure to serve you!  Good Hunting!

• Buyer’s Market  < 25%
• Neutral                25% - 40%
• Seller’s Market   > 40%

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Real Estate
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

 MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA REAL ESTATE - Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa. Starter Home to Luxury Property. REO (Bank Owned), Short Sale, View Homes, Architecural Distictive Homes. Investment, 1031 Exchange. Chinese Realtor.

The pictures were taken in the summer, around the very desirable Partridge Knolls neighborhood, overlooking San Marin, showing the 'golden' state. During the raining season, the hills turns fresh and than jade, provides a refreshing look throughout the county. Mt. Burdell, being one of the 'younger' hills in Marin County, has oak trees dotted in various places, provides a lively and beautiful picture of the hills.

Sylvia Barry, Realtor, ePRO
Marin Realtor for Marin Real Estate
Marin, San Francisco North Bay
Frankk Howard Allen Realtors
website: www.SylviaSellsMarin.com
Blog: www.AllAboutMarinHomes.com

 MARIN, SONOMA, S.F. BAY AREA REAL ESTATE - Beveldere, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marinwood, Mill Valley, Novato, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito, Tiburon; Cotati, Penngrove, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa. Starter Home to Luxury Property. REO (Bank Owned), Short Sale, View Homes, Architecural Distictive Homes. Investment, 1031 Exchange. Chinese Realtor.