Real Estatin' the Facts

  As we step into the sunny month of June, it's time to give our homes some much-needed attention. With warm weather and longer days ahead, proper maintenance ensures our living spaces are comfortable, energy-efficient, and ready for summer entertaining. In this blog, we'll explore essential June home maintenance tips specifically tailored for Silicon Valley residents. Preparing for the Heat:  Silicon Valley summers can bring scorching temperatures, so it's crucial to prepare your home for the heat. Start by servicing your air conditioning system to ensure it's running smoothly. Clean or replace filters for optimal efficiency. Consider installing programmable thermostats to save energy and maintain a comfortable temperature. Water Efficiency:  Water conservation is a priority in the dry California climate. Check for leaks in faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems. Fix any issues promptly. Consider installing low-flow fixtures and aerators to reduce water usage. Explor

  Here's the weekly round-up of news. Check it out, save it for later, and/or share it with your friends.  Valuing market-resistant properties   Real estate professionals need to consider both the complexities of the market and the different valuation methods when measuring the effect of a harmful property condition or stigma. Full Story:  REALTOR® Magazine   Fannie Mae: Recession likely in Q3  Fannie Mae economists predict 0.3% negative growth for the year and a recession starting in the third quarter. Recession "is more a question of when than if," the economists say, citing rising interest rates and a tougher lending environment amid banking turmoil. Full Story:  CFO Dive   Challenges of poverty go beyond gentrification  Displacement of residents is among the negative impacts of gentrification, a concept that has a long and complex history in American cities. "For low-income people, rates of displacement and evictions are similarly high in gentrifying neighborhood

  As we grow older, making friends can become more challenging. Our social circles may shrink due to moving away, work, family obligations, or other life events. It can be difficult to find new friends when you're no longer in school or surrounded by people your own age. However, it's important to maintain social connections throughout our lives, as friendships can have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being. In this blog, we'll explore some tips for making friends as you get older. 1. Join a club or group:  One of the easiest ways to meet new people with similar interests is by joining a club or group. There are groups for almost every hobby or interest you can imagine, from sports teams to book clubs to volunteer organizations. Look for local groups on social media or community bulletin boards and attend a meeting or event. You may be surprised at how many people you meet who share your interests. 2. Take a class:  Taking a class is another great way to mee

  As humans, we never stop learning. Whether it's a new skill, a different perspective, or an innovative idea, we should always be striving to expand our knowledge and understanding of the world. There are numerous benefits to continuing to learn as we get older, including improved cognitive function, increased socialization, and a greater sense of purpose However, in today's fast-paced world, it can be challenging to keep up with the constant changes and developments in various fields. Here are some tips for being a lifelong learner: 1. Read widely:  Reading is one of the most effective ways to keep learning as you age. It doesn't matter what you read, whether it's a classic novel or a non-fiction book on a topic you're interested in. Reading exposes you to new ideas and concepts, and helps you stay intellectually stimulated. 2. Take online courses:  With the rise of online learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX, it's never been easier to take courses

  If you're planning to sell your home, you should be aware of the costs that come with the process. One of these costs is closing costs. Closing costs are expenses that are paid by both the buyer and seller during a real estate transaction. The seller's closing costs vary depending on the location, but in general, they amount to around 2-5% of the total sale price of the home. As a seller, it's important to understand what these costs entail, as they can significantly impact your net proceeds from the sale. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common closing costs for sellers. Real Estate Agent Commissions:  The most significant closing cost for sellers is usually the commission paid to the real estate agents involved in the sale. Typically, the commission is 5-6% of the sale price of the property, which is divided between the listing agent and the buyer's agent. Some sellers may attempt to sell their homes on their own, known as “For Sale By Owner” (FSB

  As people age, they may require more assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. Traditionally, assisted living facilities have been the go-to option for seniors who need extra help, but there are alternatives to consider. In this blog post, we will discuss some alternatives to assisted living. 1. Technology-based support:  Technology is increasingly being used to provide seniors with support and assistance. For example, wearable devices can monitor health and alert caregivers if there are any concerns, and smart home technology can provide reminders for medications and appointments. 2. Aging in Place:  Aging in place means staying in one's own home as they age and receiving any necessary assistance and modifications to the home to accommodate their changing needs. Aging in place can be a great option for seniors who want to maintain their independence and stay in familiar surroundings. There are many services available to help seniors age in