Archives for August 2024

Get ready for sweater weather, football games, and, of course, Pumpkin Spice Lattes—because fall officially kicks off this month! As we dive into this magical season, whether you’re snuggling up at home or exploring the vibrant autumn landscape, our newsletter has you covered. Discover festive ways to celebrate fall in The Greater Sacramento Area and find inspiration for updating your home with the latest decor trends. Let’s make this season an unforgettable one!

Fall is bursting with activities that capture the magic of the season. From charming farmers markets to exciting community events, here are some must-attend happenings in the Sacramento area and beyond!

LOCAL EVENTS:

Now – September 17th (Select Days): Sacramento Outdoor Roller Rink in Ali Youssefi Square
Now – October 20th: Raúl Gonzo: Color Madness at the Crocker Art Museum
River Cats Schedule: Click Here For September Games
Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For August Matches
September 5th & 20th: Twilight Summer Concert Series in Old Folsom
Sacramento Farmers Markets: Click Here for Local Markets
September 3rd: Future & Metro Boomin at Golden 1
September 4th: Jelly Roll at Golden 1
September 5th: Legends of Wine Farm-to-Fork Tasting Event
September 8th: Sacramento Antique Faire
September 8th: Tower Bridge Dinner
September 9th: Hozier at Golden 1
September 13-15th: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey at Golden 1
September 14th: 12th Annual Multicultural Festival in Elk Grove
September 14th: California Brewers Festival 2024
September 14th: The Barn Night Market Series
September 20-21st: Farm to Fork Street Festival 2024
September 20th: The Grand Tasting – Farm to Fork Weekend
September 21st: Sacramento Reptile Show at Cal Expo
September 21st: Ballet in the Park 2024 at William Land Park
September 28th: 2nd Annual Elk Grove Fall Jazz Festival

FALL & WINE TASTING: THE PERFECT PAIRING:

Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or just looking for a leisurely day out, these local wineries promise a delightful taste of the season:

Rancho Roble Vineyards
Scribner Bend Vineyards
Rucksack Cellars
Wise Villa Winery
Starfield Vineyards
Boeger Winery
The Underground Tasting Room
Wolfe Heights Estates Winery

Please note that reservations are encouraged. Be sure to check each website to reserve your table ahead of time.

VISIT APPLE HILL:

Apple Hill and fall go hand in hand! Check out one (or more) of their “must visit” locations:

High Hill Ranch: This popular location has a wide array of activities including a Craft Fair, fishing, pumpkin patch, wine tasting, an apple bar, bake shop, and much more!

Rainbow Orchards: This location is home to world-famous hot apple cider donuts! Check out some of their other delicious desserts and pies here and their special events here.

North Canyon Cider Co: As their name suggests, this location is known for its award-winning hard cider! They are open on weekends, now through mid-November.

Fudge Factory Farm: Any chocolate lovers out there? Choose from an impressive selection of handmade fudge, and 15+ types of candy coated apples, homemade jams, fresh baked pies and more! Want to skip the line? Pre-order here.

Ponderosa Ridge Bed and Breakfast: Wanna get away? Wake up to beautiful views and three acres of apples that only guests can pick!

As autumn arrives, it’s the perfect time to transform your home into a cozy retreat. Here are five essential pieces to bring warmth and style to your space this fall:

Plush Throw Blankets: Enhance your fall comfort with soft, textured throw blankets in rich, autumnal hues. Crate & Barrel offers beautiful options, while Amazon provides budget-friendly alternatives to help you embrace the season without breaking the bank.

Statement Candles: Opt for oversized or uniquely shaped candles with warm, seasonal scents to create a cozy ambiance throughout your home. Anthropologie offers stunning sets, perfect for adding a touch of seasonal charm to any space.

Natural Fiber Rugs: Ground your space with a woven or jute rug, adding warmth and texture underfoot.

Layered Pillows: Mix and match pillows in varying fabrics and patterns for a comfortable, inviting look. Think velvets and chunkier textures for a rustic fall vibe.

Decorative Vases: Fill decorative vases with dried flowers or seasonal branches for an effortless fall centerpiece.

As we transition into fall, the Sacramento real estate market is undergoing noticeable changes. Here’s a snapshot of the current trends:

• Home Sales: July saw a slight dip in sales, down 4.3% from last year, with 2,699 homes sold.
• Median Price: The median home price rose by 4.2%, now sitting at $500,000.
• Inventory: Active listings surged by 36.7% year-over-year, with 568 homes available in July.
• Time on Market: Homes are selling quickly, with an average of just 15 days on the market, highlighting strong demand for well-priced properties.
• Price Reductions: About 32% of homes experienced a price reduction.

This fall brings unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re looking for your dream home or planning a move, we’re here to provide expert guidance and a personalized approach to help you navigate the evolving market.

 

Interested in learning more about our local real estate market? Contact us today!

 

School is back in session, and this month, we’re offering a crash course on all things Sacramento! Prepare to fill your social calendar with concerts, festivals, and more. We’ll also dive into the local real estate market and explore recent changes that will affect buyers and sellers. As we gear up for the back-to-school season, it’s the perfect time to explore stylish home décor ideas to create a functional and welcoming environment for students and parents. Last but not least, we’re sharing some fantastic Labor Day getaway plans. Read on for the full scoop!

Click on the links below to see what local events and activities are taking place this month (and beyond)!
Greater Sacramento Area Events:

Now – September 1st: America at the Crossroads: The Guitar and a Changing Nation
Now – September 17th (Select Days): Sacramento Outdoor Roller Rink in Ali Youssefi Square
Now – October 20th: Raúl Gonzo: Color Madness at the Crocker Art Museum
River Cats Schedule: Click Here For August Games
Sac Republic FC Schedule: Click Here For August Matches
Free Community Yoga in Old Sac (Every Sunday): Click Here for More Details
Twilight Summer Concert Series in Old Folsom (Every Thursday): Click Here for the Complete Schedule
Downtown Tuesday Nights in Roseville (Every Tuesday): Click Here for the Schedule
Sacramento Farmers Markets: Click Here for Local Markets
August 15th (Select Thursdays): Movies Off the Wall – Crocker’s Summer Film Series
August 16-18th: Monster Jam at Golden 1
August 16th: An Evening with John Legend at Thunder Valley
August 17-18th: 13th Annual Banana Festival at William Land Park
August 18th: Sacramento Wedding Festival at Cal Expo
August 18th & 24th: Soul Fest Summer Sundays Music Series at Old Sac Waterfront
August 20th – September 1st: Jersey Boys – Broadway at Music Circus at UC Davis Health Pavilion
August 25th: Twenty One Pilots at Golden 1
August 30th – September 1st: Foodieland Sacramento at Cal Expo
August 30th – September 2nd: 34th Annual Chalk It Up! 

Get ready to transform your home into the ultimate back-to-school haven with these products and design ideas that will make your space both functional and stylish.

Create an Inspiring Study Space:

Set up a dedicated study area that encourages focus and productivity. Here are some must-have products and decor ideas:

• Stylish Desks: Invest in a desk that fits your child’s needs and your home’s aesthetic. Look for designs with built-in storage to keep supplies organized.
• Ergonomic Chairs: Choose a comfortable chair with good support to ensure long study sessions are comfortable.
• Task Lighting: An adjustable desk lamp can reduce eye strain and improve concentration.
• Decorative Organizers: Use colorful bins, baskets, file organizers, and wall organizers to keep school supplies tidy and accessible. Personalize the space with fun and inspiring decor, like motivational posters or your child’s artwork.

Entryway Organization:

The entryway is the first thing you see when you come home. Keep it organized and functional with these ideas:

• Mudroom Bench: A bench with built-in storage provides a place to sit while putting on shoes and space to store backpacks and sports equipment.
• Hooks and Racks: Install hooks at kid-friendly heights for hanging backpacks, jackets, and hats. Use a shoe rack to keep footwear organized.
• Message Board: A chalkboard or corkboard can be a great place to leave reminders, notes, and schedules.

Kitchen Command Center:

A well-organized kitchen can make meal times and busy mornings smoother. Consider adding these elements:

• Family Calendar: A large, visible calendar helps keep track of everyone’s schedules, from school events to extracurricular activities.
• Storage Solutions: Use clear containers and labels to keep snacks and lunch supplies organized. Designate a specific drawer or cabinet for school-related items.
• Meal Planning Station: Create a meal planning station with a whiteboard or chalkboard to list weekly menus and grocery needs.

Creative Play and Relaxation Areas:

Balance study time with spaces for creativity and relaxation:

• Reading Nooks: Set up a cozy reading corner with a comfy chair, good lighting, and a bookshelf filled with favorite books.
• Craft Stations: A dedicated area for arts and crafts, complete with supplies and easy-to-clean surfaces, can inspire creativity.
• Relaxation Zones: Create a space for unwinding with soft cushions, bean bags, and calming decor. This can be a perfect spot for quiet time after a busy school day.

Bedroom Makeover:

A well-organized and inviting bedroom can help improve sleep and reduce morning chaos:

• Bedding: Update bedding with fresh fall sheets, pillows, and comforters in fun patterns and colors.
• Closet Organization: Use organizers, bins, and labels to keep clothes, shoes, and accessories in order. Make sure everything is easy to find and access.
• Study-Friendly Decor: Incorporate elements like bulletin boards, wall calendars, and inspirational posters to make the bedroom a motivating space.

Labor Day Getaways:

Labor Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity to venture out and enjoy a fun day or weekend trip. Sacramento’s ideal location puts you close to fantastic destinations like the foothills, Lake Tahoe, and the Napa Valley Wine Region.

Apple Hill is officially open for business! Founded in 1964 with just 16 apple ranches, Apple Hill has grown to include over 50 unique fruit and veggie farms, wineries, B&Bs, flower gardens, and more. Relax at Ponderosa Bed & Breakfast and go apple picking, visit High Hill Ranch and grab a delicious slice of pie, or try an award-winning hard cider at North Canyon Cider Company. September is known to be less crowded so it’s a great time to visit. Check out all of the Apple Hill destinations here!

Lake Tahoe offers an escape from the summer heat with activities like boating, water sports, and hiking. Enjoy fantastic restaurants, concert venues, and shopping. Discover local events happening Labor Day Weekend using this “Labor Day Lake Tahoe Guide”.

Take a quick trip to Napa and enjoy a delicious glass of wine, exceptional cuisine, and picturesque views. Soak in breathtaking landscapes on the Napa Valley wine train, soar above the clouds (and heat) in a hot air balloon, enjoy a culinary experience at one of their award-winning restaurants, or visit one of their 400+ wineries. Click here for a list of weekend events and here for lodging accommodations.

We’re Bringing the Facts To The Table…
You might have heard about the recent changes taking place in the real estate world regarding Realtor compensation. So today, we’re bringing the facts to the table to keep you informed.
Let’s Talk About the Realtor® Compensation Changes:
In the past, Real Estate Agent compensation was negotiated as a percentage of the sale price or a flat fee. The negotiation was typically done by the Seller and the Listing Agent. The negotiated amount was then split between the Listing Agent and the Buyer’s Agent. Now, Buyers will be required to negotiate the compensation paid to the Buyer’s Agent.

 

So What is Changing?:
NAR’s settlement says nothing about the amount of compensation. The biggest change is that starting in August, Listing Agents will no longer offer compensation to the Buyer’s Agent on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). However, a Seller may offer a credit that can be applied toward the Buyer’s Agent’s compensation.

Compared to the old model, the new version offers a greater level of transparency. Each party involved in the transaction will now discuss the compensation amount with their respective Agent.

 

Does this Mean The Buyer has to Pay Their Realtor® for Representation?:
Various options for compensating the Buyer’s Agent will be available to both the Buyer and the Seller. These options should be discussed with your Agent.

 

Want Additional Information?:
For more information on what will be best for your personal situation regarding Agent compensation when buying or selling a home, please feel free to contact me for further discussion.

 

Interested in learning more about our local real estate market? Contact me today!