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Your 2023 Holiday Activity Guide is Here!

December 8, 2023 by cdiez Leave a Comment

The most wonderful time of the year is finally here! To help you make the most of this magical season, we’ve put together a “Holiday Activity Guide” that’s jam-packed with amazing light displays, festive happenings, and so much more! We’re also sharing some helpful tips on how to spruce up your home decor and deck the halls in style this holiday season. Check out our Holiday Activity Guide and let the celebrations unfold!

Looking for some holiday cheer? Make this season a magical one by attending one of the below holiday happenings! We’ve carefully curated this month’s events into categories to ensure there’s something for everyone, including holiday lights, ways to give back this season, family-friendly activities, festive food and drink celebrations, arts and theatre performances, and more!

Holiday Events & Happenings:

Holiday Lights –

Imaginarium – Light up the Night – Presented by Sacramento’s Global Winter Wonderland
When: Open Now – January 7th (Select Days)
Where: Cal Expo Fairgrounds | 1600 Exposition Boulevard, Sacramento
What: Discover a world where fantasy meets reality at Imaginarium – Sacramento’s largest Holiday Light Festival of the Year! Dive into a mesmerizing experience tailored for all ages. Wander through our radiant rose garden, or lose yourself in the infinite mirror rooms. Venture deeper into the enchanted forest and marvel at over 25 majestic, larger-than-life storybook creatures, each bathed in a cascade of lights. Take the kids to meet Santa followed by an evening on the ice with our very own Ice Skating Rink!
Learn More Here

Theatre of Lights in Old Sacramento
When: Now – December 30th (Select Days)
Where: Old Sacramento Waterfront District | 1014 2nd St #200, Sacramento
What: Located blocks from the renowned Golden 1 Center, the Old Sacramento Waterfront district transforms into a 19th-century winter wonderland. Watch the light show spectacular and unique retelling of the American classic “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
See The Complete Schedule Here

Check out our Neighborhood Lights Guide Below!

Arts/Theatre –

Tis the Season Around the World – B Street Theatre
When: Now – December 24th (Select Days)
Where: B Street Theatre at the Sofia | 2700 Capital Avenue, Sacramento
What: B Street Theatre is back with ‘TIS THE SEASON, this time focusing on kids from around the world and the different holiday traditions that they take part in. Based on the very first B Street Theatre Holiday comedy, join the fun and learn all about how different people enjoy the holidays in different parts of the world!
Get Your Tickets Here

Sacramento Ballet Presents – The Nutcracker with Sacramento Philharmonic
When: Now – December 23rd (Select Days)
Where: Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center | 1301 L Street, Sacramento
What: Experience Nutcracker magic again — or for the first time! Bring everyone on your list to SacBallet’s breathtaking, beloved, annual holiday tradition set to Tchaikovsky’s acclaimed score performed by a live orchestra at every show. This year SacBallet presents its newest production of Nutcracker with 200+ local youth taking to the stage with the professionals, and choreography by Sacramento’s own artists Colby Damon, Julia Feldman and Nicole Haskins.
Get Your Tickets Here

Capital Stage: Georgiana & Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley
When: Now through December 23rd (select days)
Where: Capital Stage | 2215 J Street, Sacramento
What: Georgiana Darcy is an accomplished pianist but wary of romance. Kitty Bennet is a bright-eyed optimist and a perfect best friend. These two younger sisters are ready for their own adventures in life and love, starting with the arrival of an admirer and secret correspondent. Meddlesome families and outmoded expectations won’t stop these determined friends from forging their own way in a holiday tale filled with music, ambition, sisterhood, and forgiveness in the third and final play in the Christmas at Pemberley trilogy.
Purchase Your Tickets Here

King + Country “A Drummer Boy Christmas” at Golden 1 Center
When: December 10th
Where: Golden 1 Center | 500 David J Stern Walk Sacramento
What: Multi-GRAMMY® Award winning duo and Curb | Word Entertainment recording artist for KING + COUNTRY announces its “A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS | THE 2023 TOUR EXPERIENCE,” will be returning to Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, CA on December 10. The highly-anticipated annual holiday spectacle will feature an extraordinary production, blending festive visuals and stunning lighting and staging effects, for a high-octane show that the brother duo (made up of Joel and Luke Smallbone) have become known for.
Get Your Tickets Here

Broadway Sacramento – Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
When: December 27th – 31st
Where: SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center | 1301 L Street, Sacramento
What: Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical is the record-setting Broadway holiday sensation which features the hit songs “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” from the original animated special. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Holiday loving Whos. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and help remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season. Don’t miss what The New York Times calls “AN EXTRAORDINARY PERFORMANCE! 100 times better than any bed time story.”
Get Your Tickets Here

Family Fun –

Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
When: Open select days – Now until January 15th
Where: 701 K Street, Sacramento
What: Sharpen your skates and perfect your triple axel—the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink returns to the heart of the city! Feel a chill blow down K street as you approach Ali Youssefi Square and be teleported into a winter wonderland at the ice rink.
Click Here for Pricing and Special Events

Magical Christmas Train in West Sacramento (SELLING OUT FAST)
When: December 2-27th (select days)
Where: Sacramento River Train | 400 N Harbor Blvd, West Sacramento
What: Make timeless memories with Santa and his elves aboard the Magical Christmas Train! Tickets include a train ride in a winter wonderland, cookies, hot chocolate, a souvenir mug, and a personal visit with Santa Claus himself. Come dressed in your Christmas morning pajamas for adorable family photo ops. Join us in carols and reindeer games. One thing is certain, there is never a dull moment aboard the Magical Christmas Train!
Get Your Limited Tickets Here

40th Annual Santa Parade Around the State Capitol
When: December 9th
Where: 14th & N Streets along Capitol Park
What: This December 9th at 10:00 am, in the heart of California’s Capital City and freshly redesigned Downtown District near Capitol Park, we’re celebrating 40 years since the parade began in 1983. You and your family will get to enjoy marching bands, fancy vehicles, youth groups, super-heroes, dog clubs, dance & cheer squads, and fabulous sponsors as our Grand Marshall welcomes over 10,000 moms, dads, and children to one of Sacramento’s largest annual family events.
Learn More Here

Winter Wonderland at Fairytale Town
When: December 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th
Where: Fairytale Town | 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento
What: Celebrate the holidays together at Fairytale Town’s annual Winter Wonderland! Enjoy a visit with Santa Claus, play in nightly snowfall at 6 pm, and enjoy festive decorations. Join in games and crafts while making magical memories December 9, 10, 16, and 17 from 1-7 pm.
Learn More Here

Special Needs Evening with Santa in Historic Folsom (SPACE IS LIMITED)
When: December 11th
Where: Historic Folsom | Location revealed once time slot is reserved
What: Special Needs Children meet with Santa on this afternoon in a quiet but fabulous location within the Historic District. Schedule your time (times are rough estimates – we know how it goes) and join us on this fun evening. Kids will also meet Mrs. Claus and a few elves too! Full details on location will be received upon scheduling your child’s visit with Santa. This event will be held indoors in a private, quiet setting. Free reserved close parking is available.
Learn More Here

Food & Drinks –

12 Days of Midtown
When: Now – December 12th
Where: Midtown Sacramento (Various Locations)
What: It’s another year of holiday magic in Midtown Sacramento! The 12 Days of Midtown are a curated a delightful list of activities for you to enjoy each day from December 1st to December 12th.
Learn More Here

Miracle Pop-Up Bar – The Snug
When: Now – December 31st
Where: Old Sacramento Waterfront District | 1014 2nd St #200, Sacramento
What: Santa Claus is coming to town and he is bringing the Miracle Pop-up with him!
Get ready for “Miracle On R Street” at The Snug. The halls will be DECKED. The stockings will be HUNG. The plums will be SUGARED. The official Miracle cocktails will be POURED. The collectible mugs will be YOURS.
Learn More Here

Holiday Weekends at Old Sugar Mill
When: December 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th
Where: Old Sugar Mill | 35265 Willow Avenue, Clarksburg
What: Join the Old Sugar Mill as we kick off a month-long celebration of “Holiday Weekends at the Wineries” with live music, food trucks, and vendors!
Purchase Your Tickets Here

Giving Back –

Sacramento SPCA’s 6th Annual Jingle Bell Pup Crawl
When: December 9th
Where: Truitt Bark Park | 19th and Q Streets
What: Join the Sacramento SPCA and partnering Midtown businesses to celebrate the Pawlidays by giving back to the animals while you sip, savor, and shop this holiday season! On Saturday, December 9th, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. check in at Truitt Bark Park for your map, jingle bells for your pup(s), photos with Santa Paws and other holiday giveaways. Enjoy drink & food specials, shopping discounts, and holiday activity stations at each Pup Crawl stop.
Get Your Tickets Here

Santa Hustle in Roseville
When: December 10th
Where: Vernon Street Town Square | 311 Vernon Street, Roseville
What: Thousands of Santas will hit the streets of Roseville during the Santa Hustle 5K, Half Marathon, and Kids Dash. Runners and walkers alike are warmly invited to join this magical event, which begins and ends at Vernon Street Town Square.
Register Here

Wondering where you can catch a dazzling neighborhood light display this year? Check out some of our favorite, over-the-top holiday light displays in and around the Sacramento area!

Holiday Light Displays: Neighborhood Edition
East Sacramento’s Fab 40s Christmas Lights (Neighborhood Lights Display): Grab your hot cocoa and bundle up while you admire this classic, established East Sacramento neighborhood (from 40th to 49th, between J and Folsom) for its beautiful homes and brilliant light displays. This neighborhood is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with lights and garlands draped around the tree-lined streets. You can even hire Top Hand Ranch Carriage Company and take a carriage through the Fab 40s with up to 20 people or peddle through the streets with Sac Peddle Brew Bikes Fab 40’s Light Tours.

Dovewood Court in Orangevale (Neighborhood Lights Display): Talk about going all out! For over 35 years, thousands of people have flocked to Dovewood Court to experience the extravagant holiday lights and decorations each year. As if this iconic cul-de-sac couldn’t get any more recognition from residents and visitors, it even gained the attention of Mariah Carey, the Queen of Christmas herself. If Mariah Carey talked about it, you know it must be worth checking out! Bundle up and take a stroll through the court on foot or enjoy the decked-out halls from the warmth of your vehicle. Consider bringing a few non-perishable food items with you to donate as the Food for Families charities will be collecting donations.

Pebble Creek Christmas Lights in Rocklin (Neighborhood Lights Display): Visitors trek from miles around to see this very fun and family-oriented Christmas light extravaganza that includes hundreds of handcrafted characters from your favorite shows, both old and new. A popular and classic Rocklin holiday tradition. Stroll through the neighborhood on foot or bundle up in the car and roll down the windows for an impressive display of lights! Note: Weekdays are best as weekends are extremely crowded.

Want to wrap up the year in style? Here are some of the top ways to deck your halls for the holidays according to expert designers.

Glass Ornaments:
One big trend designers are “cozying” up to this year is glass. As Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors explains, “Glass inherently is a demonstration of effortless elegance. As an art form, it plays with reflection more than any other medium—enhancing and refracting the light produced from Christmas tree lights and warm taper candles, which are mainstays of traditional holiday decor.”

“The transparency of glass provides a weightless contrast to the heaviness of more ornate decor often used to adorn coffee tables and banisters. We also love the delicate shapes, translucent colors, and handmade textures of artfully created glass ornaments…adding touches of magic to anywhere that it is placed,” says Macuga. In addition to your Christmas tree, consider placing glass ornaments in bowls for effortless decor. Also, think glass candle holders and decorative bowls.

Mixed Metallics for a Modern Twist:
Move over traditional red and green! This year, we’re seeing a surge in popularity for mixed metallics like gold, silver, and copper. Incorporating these modern metallic tones into your decor can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your festive space. Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors embraces the glitz and glam of the holidays with these metallics. “Brass and chrome decor will have staying power beyond the holiday season—simply change up the styling. A spray of holly in a brass vase can easily be swapped out for cherry blossoms come spring,” says Adams. In need of some inspiration? Check out these Starburst Taper Holders from West Elm or these String lights from Anthropologie.

Warm Colors:
Add instant warmth to your home by incorporating warm tones and colors. “The use of color…like blush, which is undoubtedly warm and looks beautiful when combined with the traditional gold, silver, and jeweled tones of the season,” says Macuga. “It’s a stark contrast to the cool, chilly temperatures of the outdoors.” Think rustic glam ornaments and blush glass vases.

Minimalist Winter Wonderland:
Embrace a minimalist approach to holiday decor by opting for a winter wonderland theme. Keep things simple with white and silver accents, focusing on clean lines and a clutter-free aesthetic. This trend is perfect for those who prefer a sleek and contemporary look for the holidays. “This year I foresee a more understated use of decor. Less bold ‘green and red’ combos and more muted greenery along with moody neutrals,” says Laura Williams of ATX Interior Design. This linen runner from Crate & Barrel and Clemente bowl from Lulu and Georgia tie in nicely with the minimalist trend.

Wishing you and your loved ones joy, good health, and holiday cheer this Christmas season!

Your Guide to Celebrating Thanksgiving in Sacramento is Here!

November 15, 2023 by cdiez Leave a Comment

As Thanksgiving week approaches, it’s time to bring out the fall decor, finalize your Thanksgiving invites, and start planning your delicious feast! Sacramento also has festive holiday happenings and volunteer opportunities taking place during this season of gratitude and togetherness. That’s why this month’s newsletter is dedicated to all things Thanksgiving – from events and ways that you can give back to your community to holiday decor and classic dishes, we’ve got you covered. Read on for your complete guide to celebrating Thanksgiving in Sacramento!

Are you staying in town this year to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family? Explore local events, happenings, and volunteer opportunities this holiday season!

Local Events & Happenings:

Now through January 15th (select days): Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
Now through January 16th (select days): Historic Folsom Ice Rink
November 15-24th: Tis the Season: Around the World – B Street Theatre
November 15-24th: Snow Fever – B Street Theatre
November 18th: Brahms’s Symphony No. 4 – Sacramento Philharmonic
November 18th: 62nd Annual Sylvia Besana Parade in Roseville
November 22nd through December 30th (select days): Theater of Lights at Old Sacramento Waterfront
November 23rd: Run to Feed the Hungry 10K/5K in Sacramento
November 24-26th: Crocker Holiday Artisan Market

Volunteer Opportunities:

November 23rd: Serve Warm Meals to Those in Need with The Salvation Army
Volunteer at the: Sacramento Food Bank
Donate to those less fortunate: Loaves of Fishes
Serve Sacramento Seniors: Volunteer for Meals on Wheels
Help Animals During the Holiday & Winter Months: Sacramento SPCA or Front Street Animal Shelter
Share the Gift of Warmth this Holiday Season: Volunteers of America

Are you responsible for preparing this year’s Thanksgiving or “Friendsgiving” feast? Don’t stress… From tender turkey to savory sides with a fun twist, we’re sharing some of our favorite dishes that your guests will be gobbling up at the dinner table this year.

Thanksgiving Apps: Need something to snack on before the main feast? These tasty appetizers will keep your guests hunger at bay and take the pressure off you – and your timer!

Delicious Mains: Pull off a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with these classic mains and side dishes that everyone will be thankful for.

Let’s Talk Mains:

Pass the Sides:

Festive Libations & Mocktails: From holiday cocktails and punches to delicious mocktails, we have a drink recipe for everyone to enjoy!

Thanksgiving Cider Punch
Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned
Spicy Pomegranate Ginger Paloma
Harvest Apple Cider Margarita
Thanksgiving Pomegranate Punch
Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
Pomegranate Mimosa
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Hot Buttered Rum
Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule
Cranberry Lime Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
Ginger Orange Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)

Delectable Desserts: Give your guests pumpkin’ to talk about with these decadent Thanksgiving pies and desserts.

Set the Scene for a Feast: It’s time to break out the good china, polish up that silverware, and find a seasonal centerpiece. Check out our tried-and-true tips for setting up a Thanksgiving table worthy of hosting your holiday recipes, festive libations, and decadent desserts.

Incorporate Natural Elements: This year, natural is in! You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a beautiful table setting. Bring outdoor elements inside by garnishing your table with leafy stems, fresh produce, structural berry branches for an added pop of color, and basic dinnerware. This creates a natural yet dreamy table-setting vibe. Get the look here.
Keep It Simple: If you can’t decide what aesthetic route to take, you can always keep it minimal. Think draper candles and a faux garland down the length of the table. If you want the wintery smells though, go for a real garland.
Take It Outside: Do you want to take advantage of the beautiful weather? Take your Thanksgiving feast outside this year with a table that embraces the outdoors. Think tree-inspired chargers and candle holders. Shop outdoor table decor here.
Provide Drinkware: Color is in this year! You can easily elevate your table setting by incorporating some colorful water and wine glasses. Shop colored glassware here.

Sending warm, heartfelt wishes from my home to yours this Thanksgiving!

FOOD, FAMILY & FUN: 2021 THANKSGIVING GUIDE

November 18, 2021 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Turkey day is just around the corner…and if you’re hosting this year, you might be feeling the pressure right around this time with all of the work that goes into preparing a Thanksgiving feast. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide to help with all of your Thanksgiving needs – from local activities and events, to delicious food and drink recipes organized by category, to gorgeous table setting decor ideas and more. Read on for tips, tricks, and ideas for a gobblin’ good time!

Are you staying in town this year to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family? Explore local events, happenings, and volunteer opportunities that are taking place this holiday season.

Local Events and Activities

1. Now – December 31st: Friendsgiving at the Revival
2. Now – January 16th: Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink
3. November 24th – December 24th: Theatre of Lights at the Old Sacramento Waterfront
4. November 19th – 21st: Sacramento Fall Festival
5. November 19th – January 16th: Global Winter Wonderland 2021
6. November 19th – December 12th: Elf: The Musical
7. November 20th: Holiday Sip & Shop
8. November 23rd: B looms & Bubbly: Thanksgiving Workshop
9. November 25th: Run to Feed The Hungry
10. November 25th: Historic Folsom Christmas Light Promenade
11. November 25th: Turkey Trot in Roseville
12. November 25th: Elk Grove Gobble Wobble
13. November 25th: Folsom Turkey Trot

Volunteer Opportunities

1. Donate to Loaves and Fishes Holiday Headquarters
2. Donate to Animals at The Sacramento SPCA or Front Street Animal Shelter
3. Donate to Toys for Tots (contact me today to coordinate dropping off a new, unwrapped toy to one of our office locations)
4. Donate or Volunteer at the Sacramento Food Bank

From tasty appetizers and main meal items to drinks and desserts, these Thanksgiving recipes are sure to impress everyone at the dinner table this year. So get ready to “gobble til you wobble” with these classic Thanksgiving pairings!

Tasty Appetizers: While the mains tend to steal the show on Thanksgiving, these tasty apps will keep your hangry guests happy until dinner is served!

Delicious Mains: You ain’t seen stuffin’ yet! These beloved mains will have your guests running back for seconds!

Let’s Talk Turkey:

Mashed Potato Mash-Up:

Please Pass the Sides:

Festive Drinks: From festive cocktails and punches to delicious mocktails, we have a drink for everyone to enjoy!

Delectable Desserts: Give em pumpkin’ to talk about with these over-the-top Thanksgiving pies.

Whether you’re hosting for the first time or the tenth time, your table sets the tone for your Thanksgiving feast. Create a table that’s dressed to impress with these eye-catching ideas and designs. Bonus: they won’t break the bank.

1. Set the Scene with a Harvest Centerpiece: Set the scene for your Thanksgiving feast with this show-stopping (and all-natural) apples and leaves tablescape, this gorgeous DIY cranberry candle centerpiece, or this pumpkin planter centerpiece. You can also fill the center of your table with a colorful display of pumpkins, gourds, nuts, fruits, veggies, or seasonal blooms.

2. Go Rustic This Year: Add warmth to your Thanksgiving table with white pumpkins and candles to create this lovely rustic table setting. Carry on the rustic theme to each place setting with these rustic wood table name holders and these rustic napkin rings from Amazon.

3. Add a Pop of Color with Florals: Take your Thanksgiving dinner to the next level with flowers galore. Create a simple yet elegant table by pairing your best white dishes with seasonal flowers – think orange, yellow, and red – to add a pop of color to your table.

4. Create a Kid-Friendly Tablescape: Don’t forget about the kiddos! Entertain your younger guests with a kid-friendly tablescape. Simply cover it in craft paper and add crayons to each place setting to keep them drawing all night long.

Sending warm, heartfelt wishes from my home to yours this Thanksgiving!

The Sacramento Housing Market Makes a Splash

May 14, 2021 by cdiez Leave a Comment

The Sacramento real estate market continues to make a splash with historically low inventory, high competition, and rising prices. While there’s no denying that our current market favors sellers, this month’s newsletter highlights some ways that buyers can prepare before diving into the real estate pool. We also take a look at data that supports a wave of growing inventory within the next year.

Whether you are planning on buying, selling or both, you may find yourself competing with countless others in this red hot market. However, taking care of the items listed below can help you get the edge you need and ensure smooth sailing ahead.

Patience is key: Let’s face the facts…it’s a tough market for buyers in most price points right now. Some buyers are being rushed to make decisions, which can quickly lead to remorse over paying too much for a home. So our advice? Take your time, be patient, and keep logic in mind when submitting offers. It’s also important not to become over-invested in one home because of the bidding wars taking place in this overheated market. This doesn’t mean you should stop looking however – persistency and patience is key. Be ready to check out available homes as soon as they hit the market and act quickly once you come across the right home.

Find the right real estate agent: This brings us to our next point. Whether this is your first or fifth home purchase, it’s still wise to enlist the help of a buyer’s agent. After all, it doesn’t cost you anything out of pocket, and a good agent will help you by sharing their inside knowledge not only of the neighborhood, but also help establish what’s a good value in your price range. Plus, they’ll arrange showings on your behalf and they may also be able to alert you to red flags you’d otherwise miss while touring properties.

Clean up your credit: Your credit score not only impacts your ability to secure a mortgage at all, but it will also determine the interest rate you’ll pay. If you’re worried about your credit score, start working toward raising it by paying all your bills on time and making sure your balances are low. Check your credit report by contacting the three credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. You’re entitled to a free report from each agency once per year. If you spot an error, having the report amended will boost your score. Pro tip: Speak to an experienced mortgage professional. Sometimes they can advise you on what (and what not) to pay down or off, in order to improve your credit score.

Save for a down payment (and then some!): Being able to put 20% of the purchase price down at your closing isn’t necessary, but it could increase your chance of your offer being accepted. In today’s market, sellers are often looking for the most money down possible. Increasing your down payment could also help you in terms of better rates and overall monthly payments. It can also help you avoid paying for private mortgage insurance (PMI). Last but not least, it’s wise to save for emergencies because once you’re in your new home you never know what may suddenly need repair.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Getting pre-approved lets sellers know you’re the real deal. And, it lets you know what you can afford, so you can focus on the right price points and choose the perfect home to go after with confidence. Rather than just getting pre-qualified, which is more like an estimate of what you can borrow, a pre-approval means the loan is much more likely to get through underwriting once you get a home under contract because the lender has already assessed your credit, income, debts, and assets. Plus, if you find yourself competing for a property, being able to tell a seller you’re pre-approved will give you the advantage you need against others who are not. Finding a lender that has the shortest close time is another advantage in today’s hot market. Our preferred lender, Summit Funding is coming out with a 15-day close guaranteed. Contact Summit Funding Senior Loan Officer Chris Stahl at 916.768.8000 to begin the pre-approval process.

Do your due diligence: Think you’ve found an area you like? Check out neighborhoods at different times of day, and be sure to notice traffic patterns. For example, is the home you like on a street that drivers use to dodge traffic on main streets? Will you encounter school drop-off or pick-up congestion that will make getting in or out of your driveway a hassle? Consider all these factors and anything else that may appeal to you, or bother you personally, as you’re driving past potential homes.

While lack of inventory and high competition has made for a challenging market for buyers, get ready, because it looks like things are about to get at least slightly better for people searching for a home. According to data outlined in a recent realtor.com article, about 10 percent of homeowners plan to list their home this year—with another 16 percent planning to list in the next 24 to 36 months. That translates to an additional 1.5 million homes hitting the market—which, while not enough to completely end the historic inventory shortage, is certainly a solid start.

Options for first-time buyers should also improve. More than half of the buyers planning to list their homes this year (58 percent) have homes valued at $350,000 or less—which means more affordable options should be hitting the market soon.

As we take a closer at the Sacramento housing market, we are also seeing a slight increase in active listing inventory according to the Sacramento Association of Realtors – an increase of 9.4 percent from February to Marchand another increase of 9.6 percent from March to April to be exact. While still very competitive, experts suggest that a leveling market is on the horizon.

We are proud supporters of The Sacramento SPCA and we are committed to helping animals find their forever homes. That’s why Diez & Sigg Properties is a returning sponsor for this year’s Doggy Dash Event. This year’s event will once again be a virtual experience. However, just because we won’t be walking side by side, doesn’t mean we can’t still walk together to save more lives!

On June 5th, walk around your neighborhood with your pup, hit a local park or trail, or get creative at home with your pooch. The Sacramento SPCA will be kicking off the walk LIVE on Facebook and you will be able to share your photos, videos and participate in activities throughout the day. You will still see some of their famous Bark in the Park games and contests to participate in right at home! They will be tracking all the fun using the hashtag: #SSPCADASH2021

Ways you Can Contribute: If you would like to contribute to this cause, you can do so by purchasing a Doggy Dash T-shirt as a part of our “pack”. Click here to purchase your shirt. You can also make a donation here.

Enter our raffle to receive a FREE Pet Gift Basket (valued at over $100!)

SPCA DOGGY DASH RELEASHED!

June 2, 2020 by cdiez Leave a Comment

Join forces with Diez & Sigg Properties and Silver Oak Funding to help save the lives of thousands of animals at this year’s Doggy Dash Event, benefiting the Sacramento SPCA.

The health and safety of our community continues to be a top priority so this year’s event is a VIRTUAL experience! Just because we won’t be walking side by side, doesn’t mean we can’t still walk together to save more lives!

On June 27, walk around your neighborhood with your pup, hit a local park or trail, or get creative at home with your pooch. The Sacramento SPCA will be kicking off the walk LIVE on Facebook and you will be able to share your photos, videos and participate in activities throughout the day! You will still see some of their famous Bark in the Park games and contests to participate in right at home! They will be tracking all the fun using the hashtag: #DASHRELEASHED

Ways You Can Contribute: If you would like a Doggy Dash T-shirt, you can register under our team as an individual. Click here to view our team page. Click on this direct link to register as an individual under our team.

NEW T-SHIRT DEADLINE: June 5 is the LAST day to guarantee your shirt size! Your registration fee will make a difference for the animals who continue to need our help during the COVID-19 crisis.

Stuck at home? Here’s how you can stay connected, healthy and happy!

March 31, 2020 by cdiez Leave a Comment

In an effort to contain the outbreak of the new coronavirus, most of us are self-quarantining in the comfort and safety of our own homes. And while we are all doing our part to protect our family members, friends, and community, it’s safe to say that we may be feeling a bit stir-crazy.

That’s why we’ve put together some of our favorite ways to stay connected with friends and family, give back to our local community, and stay entertained (and yes sane) during this period of social distancing. Just remember that while we may feel alone at times, we are all in this together.

Wondering how you can give back to your community? Check out some of the ways that you can help those affected by this pandemic.

Foster a furry friend: Social distancing can be lonely but many Americans have found the perfect solution—fostering a pet in need. While some local organizations are reporting a rise in foster applications, many have been forced to shut down and are in dire need of fosters, donations and much-needed resources. Click here to find a shelter near you.

Donate masks and supplies: Due to the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), Sacramento County has started accepting donations from the community to give to health professionals and emergency responders.

The county is accepting the following unused items: • N95 mask of any type
Surgical or procedural masks
Non-latex medical gloves
Hand sanitizers
Disinfectant sprays

The donation site is at 9680 Conservation Road in Sacramento. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sutter Health, Kaiser Permanente, Dignity Health and UC Davis Medical Center are also accepting community PPE donations. Each hospital has a list of items needed from the community. Click on the above links to learn more.

Give the gift of blood: Now more than ever, blood centers are in need of life-saving blood supplies. Sacramento-area residents can donate blood through Vitalant by making an appointment online or calling 877-25-VITAL. The American Red Cross is also holding community blood drives throughout the greater-Sacramento area. To find a blood drive near you, visit the American Red Cross online.

Blood centers encourage donors to make appointments in advance so staff can prepare and ensure there is adequate space for social distancing. Trips to blood donation sites are generally permissible even in areas with “shelter in place” directives, as they are deemed medically necessary. The coronavirus does not pose any known risk to blood donors during the donation process, according to AABB, a national organization advancing transfusions and cellular therapies. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration has reiterated that there have been no reported or suspected cases of transfusion-transmitted coronavirus.

Have you been binge-watching Netflix a little too much lately? Below are some ideas to keep your mind, body, and home healthy during this time.

Read something new: Escape reality for a bit and enter into a world of action or adventure. Download a free eBook at manybooks.net or buy books, magazines and newspapers straight from your Nook, Kindle or iPad.

Take up an exercising regime: Feeling restless? There are plenty of virtual fitness programs and apps being offered right now. There are also lots of beautiful hiking and walking trails in the Sacramento area. Click here for some inspiration and be sure to practice social distancing.

Start prepping your garden: Soak in the sunshine and prep your garden for spring! Here are ten tips to get your garden in tip-top shape.

Do some spring cleaning: Being stuck at home means there’s no excuse to put off cleaning. Check out these five tips for spring cleaning this year.

Spruce up your walls with some fresh paint: Now that you’ve had more time to stare at your walls, you might be considering a fresh coat of paint. Check out this year’s most popular paint trends here.

Go Down the Pinterest rabbit hole: Check out the Pinterest “Stay Safe. Stay Inspired” Board where you will find 26 sections with delicious recipes, activities for kids, home teaching ideas, ways to organize your home, happy hour recipes and much more!

Visit a virtual museum: Thanks to technology, we can still visit a museum even if we can’t leave the house. Check out Travel and Leisure’s list of 12 museums that offer virtual tours. You can “visit” famous locations in the US or abroad in Seoul, Berlin, Florence and more. You can also get your art fix with the Google Arts and Culture app for iPhone and Android. The app lets you view paintings, read up on masterpieces, and find your famous painting doppelganger. The Georgia Aquarium and the Monterey Bay Aquarium have turned on webcams so you can still watch otters, fish, and penguins without the crowds. Last but certainly not least, be sure to check out this video of a puppy field trip at an Aquarium!

Host a Netflix viewing party: If you and your friends have a Netflix subscription, you can schedule a time to watch a movie or show synced together. A free Google Chrome extension called Netflix Party syncs video playback so you can play and pause at the same time. It also has a group chat feature so you can keep the conversation going while you watch.

Stream a virtual concert: As we adjust to this new norm, many artists are taking their shows online. Check out Billboard’s list of live streams and virtual concerts to watch here. Also be sure to visit Live Nation’s website for additional live concerts, streaming and virtual events.

Support your local restaurants and shops: If you’re not in the mood to cook, now is a great opportunity to support your local restaurants and shops. Many restaurants are offering takeout or no-contact delivery options.

Interested in learning more about the current real estate market? Contact me today!