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Incredible National Parks Just a Drive from Sacramento

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:54:45 GMT

Here at The Sherri Patterson Team , we’re constantly reminded of how lucky we are to live in Northern California. Sacramento sits in a pretty special spot on the map. Within just a few hours, you can go from rolling farmland to towering mountains, ancient forests, dramatic coastlines, and some of the most famous national parks in the country.

That means weekend adventures are never far away. Whether you’re planning a family road trip, a quiet day on the trails, or simply want to see some of California’s most breathtaking landscapes, spring is the perfect time to explore.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Just a few hours north of Sacramento, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers one of the most unique landscapes in California. The park is famous for its geothermal features, including bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and colorful hot springs that make the area feel a little like Yellowstone’s quieter cousin.

Visitors can hike scenic trails to places like Bumpass Hell, explore alpine lakes, or take on the challenge of climbing Lassen Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. In spring and summer, wildflowers begin to bloom across the meadows, making the park especially beautiful.

Pinnacles National Park

Located southeast of the Bay Area, Pinnacles National Park is known for its dramatic rock formations and fascinating cave systems. The park was formed by ancient volcanic activity, leaving behind towering spires and rugged cliffs that create an unforgettable hiking experience.

One of the highlights here is spotting the endangered California condor soaring overhead. Visitors can hike through the Bear Gulch caves, climb up to scenic overlooks, or simply enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by striking natural formations.

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park

Often visited together, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are home to some of the largest trees on Earth. Walking through these groves of giant sequoias is a humbling experience, especially when you stand beside the famous General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world by volume.

Beyond the iconic trees, the parks offer deep canyons, rushing rivers, alpine meadows, and miles of hiking trails. Whether you’re driving the scenic routes or exploring the forests on foot, it’s the kind of place that leaves visitors in awe of nature’s scale.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the world, and for good reason. Known for its towering granite cliffs, powerful waterfalls, and wide open valleys, Yosemite offers scenery that feels almost unreal.

Spring is an especially magical time to visit, when snowmelt sends waterfalls thundering down the cliffs throughout Yosemite Valley. Visitors can hike, bike, photograph wildlife, or simply soak in the views at iconic spots like Tunnel View or Glacier Point.

Redwood National Park

Along California’s northern coast, Redwood National Park protects some of the tallest trees on the planet. Walking through these ancient forests feels almost otherworldly as sunlight filters through towering redwoods that stretch hundreds of feet into the sky.

Visitors can explore peaceful forest trails, wander through the famous Fern Canyon, or drive scenic coastal routes where the forest meets the Pacific Ocean. It’s a destination that reminds you just how powerful and timeless nature can be.

One of the many reasons people love living in the Sacramento area is the incredible access to outdoor adventure. Within just a few hours, you can explore volcanoes, giant forests, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most iconic landscapes in the country.

At The Sherri Patterson Team , we feel grateful to call this beautiful region home and to help others find their place here, too. If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply learning more about the Sacramento real estate market, we’d love to help.

Let’s work together to find a home that puts you right where you want to be, surrounded by everything that makes Northern California so special.

Spring Market Insights: What Q1 Trends Tell Us About the Sacramento Housing Market in 2026

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 16:35:05 GMT

As the first signs of spring start showing up around Sacramento—from blooming trees in East Sac to bike rides along the American River Parkway—the housing market is beginning to shift as well.

Over the past couple of years, many buyers and sellers have been stuck in a “wait and see” mindset as interest rates climbed and affordability tightened. But early data from Q1 2026 suggests we may be entering a new chapter.

At The Sherri Patterson Team , we’ve been closely watching both national trends and what’s happening right here in the Sacramento region. While every local market has its own rhythm, the early data from this year highlights several shifts that could shape the rest of 2026.

Here are six trends worth paying attention to as we head into Sacramento’s spring market.

1. Navigating the New Rate Landscape

At the start of 2026, the cost of owning a home was trending down slightly year over year. Mortgage rates settled into the low 6 percent range, with some weeks dipping close to 6.0 percent.

Redfin data shows the weekly average 30-year mortgage rate has been down significantly from almost 7% a year ago.

As we entered March, things took a turn. Rates jumped back up to 6.22% mid-month (at the time we are writing this article), with global conflict and inflation being two key factors that are impacting rates. The hope is that this is a temporary hike and things will settle back into the downward trend we were seeing in January and February.

Despite these recent hikes, mortgage rates remain nearly half a percentage point lower than the same time last year.

Why it matters: This isn't just a tiny dip. Nationally, the typical monthly mortgage payment is expected to fall by about 1.3% this year. It sounds small, but combined with rising wages, it means the "affordability ceiling" is finally beginning to lift. Buyers who were "rate-locked" or priced out in 2025 are finding they have hundreds of dollars more in monthly breathing room.

2. The Return of a Balanced Market

Remember the weekend bidding wars where you had to waive inspections and offer $50k over asking? Those days are largely in the rearview mirror.

Q1 data shows that national inventory is up nearly 9%. Simultaneously, homes are sitting on the market longer—averaging around 66 days.

For Buyers: You finally have the luxury of time. You can actually perform a home inspection and negotiate on repairs.

For Sellers: Your "marketing" matters again. You can't just stick a sign in the yard; you need a strategic pricing plan and staging to stand out in a growing sea of options.

3. The Generational Equity Handover

Another interesting shift happening nationwide is what some experts are calling a “thaw” among longtime homeowners.

The median age of a home seller has climbed to 64 , and many of these homeowners are sitting on substantial equity after years of price appreciation. As more of them decide to move—whether downsizing, relocating, or simplifying their lifestyle—we’re seeing additional homes gradually enter the market.

For Sacramento buyers, this could mean more opportunities, particularly in established neighborhoods where inventory has historically been tight.

4. Luxury is Taking the Lead

One bright spot in the housing market this year is the luxury segment. Luxury buyers tend to be less sensitive to mortgage rate changes because many are using cash or substantial down payments from previous home sales. As a result, the move-up and luxury markets are seeing stronger activity than some entry-level segments.

In the Sacramento region, we’re seeing continued interest in higher-end properties in areas like Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills, and certain parts of the city where buyers are prioritizing lifestyle upgrades.

5. The Refi & Remodel Wave

With rates stabilizing near 6%, we’re seeing a "hidden" market surge: Refinancing and Renovating. Homeowners who bought at the peak of rates in 2024/2025 are finally hitting their "strike price" to refinance. Others are using their $35 trillion in collective home equity to stay put and remodel, keeping the local construction and design sectors busier than ever.

6. A Slow Start For Home Sales

Sales activity has been one of the less cheerful parts of Q1. Existing-home sales dipped sharply early in 2026, with one report showing an 8.4% monthly drop in January and the lowest level since late 2023 . ( Reuters )

But experts highlight caveats. January closings reflect deals agreed upon weeks earlier, often in winter weather that dampens activity, meaning spring could show a rebound. So, it’s safe to expect home sales to gradually improve over the course of the year as demand rebalances with rising inventory.

The Bottom Line for 2026?

The first quarter of 2026 is showing us something important: the housing market isn’t crashing— it’s recalibrating.

We’re seeing slower price growth, more inventory, and the first meaningful improvements in affordability in several years. That combination could create new opportunities for both buyers and sellers throughout the Sacramento region.

At The Sherri Patterson Team , we’re watching these trends closely and helping our clients understand how they translate to their specific neighborhood—because real estate is always local.

If you’re thinking about selling, buying, or simply want to understand what your home might be worth in today’s market, we’re always happy to talk strategy. Let’s connect and map out what the rest of 2026 could look like for you here in Sacramento.

When Do You Need a Permit for Remodeling Your Sacramento Home?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:37:00 GMT

Spring has a way of making us look around the house and think, “You know what this place needs?” Maybe it’s a kitchen refresh, a bathroom upgrade, or finally finishing that garage. But before you grab a sledgehammer or start binge-watching DIY videos, there’s one important question to answer first: Do you need a permit?

Short answer? Sometimes yes. Sometimes no. And knowing the difference can save you time, money, and a major headache later.

DIY or Call in a Pro?

If you’re confident, handy, and your project is minor, you might be able to tackle it yourself. But if the project feels even a little out of your comfort zone, it’s worth calling in help. The good news? The Sherri Patterson Team is connected with trusted contractors, handymen, plumbers, electricians, and more. If you need a recommendation, just ask. We’ve got you covered.

Projects in Sacramento That DO Require a Permit

In Sacramento, permits are generally required when a project affects your home’s structure, safety, or major systems. Here are some common examples:

Structural changes
Removing or adding walls, changing the layout, or anything that impacts load-bearing elements will require a permit.
Room additions or conversions
Adding square footage, converting a garage, or turning an attic into living space almost always needs city approval.
Electrical work
Installing new wiring, adding circuits, upgrading your electrical panel, or major lighting changes typically require a permit.
Plumbing work
Moving plumbing lines, installing new water heaters, or making significant changes to bathrooms or kitchens usually requires one.
HVAC installation or replacement
New heating or cooling systems, or major modifications to existing ones, need permits to ensure safety and efficiency

Roof replacement
A full roof replacement (not just small repairs) generally requires a permit in Sacramento.

Projects That Usually DON’T Require a Permit

Not every upgrade needs city approval. Many cosmetic and minor improvements can be done permit-free:

Painting (interior or exterior)
Fresh paint? Go for it. No permit needed.
Flooring
Replacing carpet, tile, laminate, or hardwood without structural changes is typically fine.
Cabinet and countertop replacement
As long as you’re not moving plumbing or electrical, this is usually permit-free.
Minor repairs
Fixing leaks, replacing fixtures, or small maintenance tasks generally don’t require permits.
Landscaping
Basic landscaping projects like planting, sod, or decorative features typically don’t need permits.

Quick Disclaimer: Permit rules can change, and every project is a little different. Always double-check with the City of Sacramento or a licensed professional before starting work. It’s better to confirm upfront than deal with fines, delays, or issues when selling your home later. (Helpful resource: City of Sacramento Building Permit Services )

Not all remodels are created equal. Some projects add serious value, while others are more about personal enjoyment. If selling is on your radar, it’s always smart to know which upgrades bring the best return on investment and which ones buyers in the Sacramento market actually care about.

If you’re thinking about remodeling, selling, or both, reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team . We’re happy to help you plan smart updates, connect you with great pros, and make sure your home is market-ready when the time is right.

How to Move with Kids: Routines, Packing Hacks, and Goodbyes

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 22:31:04 GMT

Moving is consistently ranked as one of life’s most stressful events, and for families, that stress multiplies. In fact, roughly one-third of all moves in the U.S. involve households with children. That means millions of parents are trying to manage logistics, emotions, schedules, and school transitions all at once.

When kids are part of the equation, moving isn’t just about packing boxes. It’s about helping your family feel secure, heard, and supported through change. The good news is that with the right approach, moving can become something your kids feel part of, not something that happens to them. That’s why The Sherri Patterson Team is breaking down simple, thoughtful ways to help your kids feel involved, supported, and grounded before, during, and after a move.

Getting Kids to Buy Into the Move

One of the best ways to ease anxiety around a move is to give kids a sense of ownership in the process. When children feel included, they’re more likely to view the move as a shared family project instead of a disruption they didn’t choose. Start by talking openly about the move in age-appropriate terms and inviting their questions. Even small decisions can make a big difference in how secure they feel.

*Tip: Give your kids specific, manageable tasks so they feel helpful and involved. Younger kids can help sort toys into “keep,” “donate,” or “pack” piles, while older kids can label boxes, help create a packing checklist, or plan how they want their new room to look. These tasks provide structure and a sense of control, which can be incredibly reassuring during a time of change.

Packing Hacks When You Have Kids

Packing with kids doesn’t have to be chaos. A few smart strategies can save time, reduce stress, and keep everyone a little more sane:

Keep routines intact by packing around meals, naps, and bedtime whenever possible.

Turn packing into short sessions , not all-day events, to avoid burnout.

Pack one room at a time to avoid overwhelm and keep familiar spaces intact as long as possible.

Use clear bins for toys and frequently used items so kids can still see what they have.
Let kids pack a “first night” box with favorite toys, pajamas, books, and comfort items.
Color-code boxes by room or child using stickers or markers.
Pack essentials last , especially items used in daily routines like bath supplies and school gear.

These small adjustments help maintain a sense of normalcy while still making steady progress.

Helping Kids Say Goodbye to School and Friends

Goodbyes are often the hardest part of moving for kids. Leaving behind friends, teachers, and familiar places can bring up big feelings, even if they’re excited about what’s ahead. Acknowledge those emotions instead of brushing past them. Let your kids know it’s okay to feel sad and excited at the same time.

Consider planning intentional goodbyes. This could look like a small get-together with close friends, a special outing to a favorite park or ice cream spot, or writing thank-you notes to teachers. For older kids, exchanging phone numbers or setting up virtual ways to stay in touch can help ease the transition. Creating closure around what they’re leaving behind makes space for them to embrace what’s next.

Re-Establishing Routines After the Move

Once the move is complete, routines become your best friend. Familiar schedules help kids feel safe and grounded, especially after a period of uncertainty. Try to return to regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and daily rhythms as quickly as possible, even if everything else still feels a bit unsettled.

It also helps to establish new routines that fit your new home and neighborhood. Walks after dinner, a weekly family night, or a consistent morning routine can help your kids feel anchored in their new environment. The faster life feels predictable again, the easier the emotional adjustment will be for everyone.

Moving with kids isn’t just about changing addresses—it’s about guiding your family through life’s transitions with care, patience, and empathy. With the right strategies, moving can become an opportunity for growth and a fresh start.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we understand that moving is hard, especially when kids are involved. Our job is to make your life easier before and after you get those new keys. If you’re planning a move across Sacramento (or even across state lines) and want a team that supports your family every step of the way, we’re here to help! Reach out to our team today if you’re ready to take those next steps.

Sacramento’s Best Romantic Spots & Experiences

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 20:00:33 GMT

Sacramento is full of amazing date night options, especially if you know where to look. Whether you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s evening, a special anniversary dinner, or just want to switch things up from your usual go-to restaurant, there are plenty of memorable spots and experiences right here in the area.

From standout restaurants to fun after-dinner activities, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to share some of our favorite ways to enjoy a romantic night out in Sacramento.

Our Top Romantic Restaurants

The Firehouse Restaurant | Old Sacramento

The Firehouse is a go-to for romantic dinners because it feels special the moment you walk in. Nestled in the historic heart of Old Sacramento, this elegant restaurant blends old-world charm with refined contemporary cuisine. Couples often rave about lingering over wine from its extensive cellar and savoring shareable courses in dimly lit rooms or the lush courtyard. Many locals consider it the place for anniversaries, proposals, and any night that deserves a little extra magic.

Grange Restaurant & Bar | Downtown Sacramento

Grange strikes a great balance between upscale and comfortable, which makes it an easy choice for date night. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a local wine, share a farm-fresh appetizer, and fall into easy conversation without feeling rushed. The restaurant’s downtown energy and thoughtful preparations make it a cozy pick for couples who enjoy creative cuisine in a welcoming setting.

Allora | East Sacramento

Allora is one of those restaurants that feels tailor-made for date night. Celebrated by locals as one of the most romantic spots in the region, this Italian gem specializes in dishes meant to be shared—perfect for gazing into each other’s eyes between bites of rich pasta and fine wine. Reviewers frequently highlight Allora’s attentive service and memorable atmosphere, making it a standout for special occasions or intimate celebrations.

Prelude Kitchen & Bar | Downtown Sacramento

Stylish yet comfortable, Prelude Kitchen & Bar brings a modern pulse to classic date night. The creative, seasonally inspired menu feels adventurous without being intimidating, and its urban setting makes it perfect for an evening that starts with a delicious meal and continues into the vibrant energy of downtown. Whether you’re sharing small plates or savoring a more substantial entrée, Prelude strikes a happy balance between elegance and fun.

7th Street Standard | Midtown Sacramento

Looking for something lively yet lovely? The rooftop bar at 7th Street Standard (and its engaging cocktail program) gives you both the buzz of Midtown and a view to remember. Pair handcrafted drinks with a seasonal menu and settle in for a date night that feels celebratory without being overly formal—ideal for sunset bites or post-dinner sips as the city lights twinkle below.

Date Ideas to Pair with Dinner

Dinner and a Show at Mystique Dining in Folsom

For an evening that becomes a story you’ll both remember, Mystique Dining in Folsom blends a multi-course dinner with interactive entertainment. Diners rave about the blend of delicious entrées (from juicy prime rib to vegetarian lasagna) and an up-close magic show that feels playful, mysterious, and downright fun. Couples often describe the experience as part theatre, part culinary adventure—a great choice if you want more than just dinner.

Swing Dancing with Midtown Stomp

Put on your dancing shoes and head to Midtown Stomp, Sacramento’s beloved swing dancing hub. With weekly lessons and social dances where both beginners and seasoned dancers mix on the floor, it’s one of those activities that creates shared laughter, connection, and movement. Locals celebrate the welcoming vibe and lively energy, making this a date night that feels youthful and unforgettable.

Evening Walk at the UC Davis Arboretum

Sometimes, romance is quiet. A sunset stroll through the UC Davis Arboretum’s serene paths offers a beautiful backdrop for relaxed conversation and soft moments together. Water features, blooming gardens, and wide open skies make this a lovely choice for couples who treasure simplicity and nature.

Spend a Night on the Delta King Steamboat

For a date with character, staying on the historic Delta King riverboat brings a bit of vintage charm to your evening. Moored in Old Sacramento, this unique venue turns an ordinary night into an overnight mini-getaway—think rich river views, cozy cabins, and a sense of stepping back into a swankier era.

Go Wine Tasting Around Sacramento

With several wine regions just a short drive away, wine tasting is an easy and romantic option for a date or weekend outing. Whether you head to Clarksburg, Amador County, or nearby tasting rooms, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy good wine, scenic views, and unhurried time together.

Living in Sacramento means having access to great food, romantic experiences, and neighborhoods that truly fit your lifestyle. At The Sherri Patterson Team , we love sharing local favorites and helping our clients feel at home here.

If you’re looking for real local insight, whether it’s the best date night spots or the right neighborhood for your next move, our team is here to help you make the most of Sacramento. Happy Valentine’s, everyone!

Buying a Multigenerational Home in the Sacramento Area? Here’s What to Look For

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 19:42:00 GMT

Here in Sacramento, family tends to stay close. Whether it’s grandparents moving closer to the grandkids or adult children returning home, multigenerational living is becoming a thoughtful and practical choice for many local families. From spacious homes in Elk Grove and Folsom to properties with ADU potential in East Sac, Sacramento offers a wide range of options that can truly support multiple generations under one roof.

Nationally, multigenerational buying is at an all-time high.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 17% of 2024 home purchases included more than one generation . Locally, we’re seeing the same trend play out as families look for homes that balance togetherness, independence, and long-term flexibility. When the layout is right, multigenerational living doesn’t feel crowded; it feels intentional.

Families come together for many reasons, and most are rooted in practicality and connection. Some households are caring for aging parents who want independence without isolation. Others are welcoming adult children or grandchildren to help manage rising housing costs. In many cases, families simply value being closer, sharing daily life, and supporting one another in a way that feels intentional rather than crowded.

If You’re Searching for the Right Multigenerational Home, Look for These Features:

1. Multiple Entrances

Separate entrances give family members the freedom to come and go without disrupting the whole household. This is especially helpful for differing schedules.

2. Sound Separation

Good insulation, solid-core doors, and thoughtful layout help reduce noise between living areas. Early risers and night owls will thank you.

3. Flexible Bonus Rooms

Think offices, playrooms, or hobby spaces that can evolve over time. Today’s nursery could be tomorrow’s home office or quiet reading room.

4. Separate Living Areas

Homes with a finished basement, guest suite, or attached casita allow each generation to have their own retreat. Privacy goes a long way toward keeping the peace.

5. Wider Hallways and Doorways

Even if accessibility isn’t needed today, wider spaces make moving around easier for strollers, walkers, and wheelchairs down the road.

6. Main-Level Bedroom and Bathroom

A bedroom and full bath on the main floor are ideal for grandparents or anyone who prefers to avoid stairs. It adds comfort now and flexibility later.

7. More Than One Laundry Area

Multiple generations often mean more laundry. A second laundry space or at least room to add one can save time and tension.

8. A Spacious Kitchen

The kitchen is often the heart of a multigenerational home. Look for plenty of counter space, storage, and room for more than one cook at a time.

9. Zoning or ADU Potential

Homes that allow for accessory dwelling units or future additions offer long-term flexibility. Even if you don’t need it now, it’s a valuable option to have.

10. Outdoor Living Space

A yard, patio, or porch creates extra breathing room for everyone. It’s perfect for kids to play, grandparents to relax, and family gatherings to unfold naturally.

Moving in with the grandkids can be a meaningful and rewarding chapter when you find the right home. The best layout creates room for connection, privacy, and independence all at once, making everyday life smoother for everyone involved.

If your family is considering a multigenerational move in the Sacramento area, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help. We understand the neighborhoods, the zoning considerations, and the features that truly matter when planning for today and the future. Let’s find a Sacramento home where every generation feels comfortable, supported, and right at home.

How to Prep Your Sacramento Home to Sell This Spring

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 07:00:00 GMT

If you’ve thought about selling your home this spring, there’s one thing you need to know: in today’s market, you can’t afford to skip repairs. With more homes for sale now than we’ve seen in years, buyers have options—lots of them. That means your home needs to look its absolute best to stand out, make an impression, and get the attention (and offers) it deserves.

But here’s the good news: if you start prepping now, you can spread out your to-do list over the coming months. More time. Less stress. No racing the clock. And when spring rolls around, you’ll be perfectly positioned to hit the market with confidence.

Step One: Talk to Your Agent First

Before you lift a paintbrush or start Googling “DIY bathroom updates,” talk with The Sherri Patterson Team . Our group of real estate experts will know exactly what your specific home needs—and just as importantly, what it doesn’t .

Every home is different, and there’s no sense spending money on updates that won’t help your value or attract the right buyer. An experienced agent can walk you through the repairs that matter most in your price point and neighborhood so your time and budget go where they’ll actually count.

Step Two: Worthwhile Repair Projects Before Selling

Before you get overwhelmed by the idea of prepping your home to sell, remember that not every upgrade needs to be major to make a major impact. The goal is to tackle the projects that truly move the needle—repairs and refreshes that help your home feel well-maintained, inviting, and ready for its next owner.

Here are some of the top fixes and updates that consistently give sellers an edge in a competitive spring market.

1. Give Your Curb Appeal a Boost

Buyers make up their minds within seconds of pulling up. Simple upgrades—fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, a power-washed walkway, or a newly painted front door—make your home feel welcoming right away. These changes are inexpensive but instantly elevate your home’s first impression.

2. Fix the “Little” Things You’ve Been Ignoring

Loose doorknobs, squeaky hinges, leaky faucets, cracked outlet covers, chipped paint—buyers notice them all. These tiny flaws can make your home feel older or poorly maintained. Tackling small repairs now signals to buyers that your home has been well cared for and is truly move-in ready.

3. Update Lighting for a Brighter Feel

Lighting can completely transform a space. Swap out outdated fixtures, increase overall wattage where needed, and replace old bulbs with warm, energy-efficient LEDs. Bright rooms photograph better, feel larger, and give off a more modern, inviting feeling—especially important during spring showings when natural light is your best friend.

4. Refresh Your Paint

A fresh coat of paint is one of the highest returns on investment when prepping a home for sale. Choose neutral tones—warm whites, soft grays, or light beiges—to help buyers picture themselves living there. It instantly makes rooms feel cleaner, newer, and move-in ready, which is exactly what buyers want.

5. Deep Clean Like You’ve Never Cleaned Before

And then clean again. We’re talking baseboards, windows, ceiling fans, grout lines—everything. A spotless home makes buyers feel comfortable and shows that the property has been well maintained. If possible, invest in a professional deep clean. It’s worth every penny.

6. Declutter and Depersonalize

Removing excess furniture, personal collections, and countertop items helps create more breathing room in your home. Buyers want to imagine their life in the space—not yours. Clean, minimal rooms help them focus on the home’s features instead of visual distractions. And bonus: this also makes moving later MUCH easier.

7. Consider Simple Kitchen or Bathroom Refreshes

You don’t need a full remodel to make these spaces shine. Think new cabinet hardware, freshly caulked tubs, modern faucets, or updated mirrors. Small changes help these high-impact rooms feel updated without a major investment.

Step Three: Adjust Your Mindset

It’s also important to set realistic expectations. Today’s market is starting to feel more like 2019 than the wild days of 2021. We’re seeing more listings on the market than at any point in the last five years. That means fewer bidding wars and fewer sky-high offers within hours of listing.

But don’t let that discourage you. Spring is still one of the strongest seasons for homebuyers, and Sacramento continues to draw steady demand. By preparing early, pricing strategically, and presenting your home at its best, you’ll attract the right buyer.

It’s not about finding every buyer—it’s about connecting with the buyer who sees the value in your home and is ready to make it theirs.

Preparing your home for a spring sale doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right timeline and an experienced agent guiding you from day one, you can step into the market with confidence. Start early, make intentional improvements, and trust the process—your future buyer is out there, and they’re going to fall in love with the version of your home you’ve thoughtfully prepared.

When you’re ready to begin, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to walk you through every step—strategically, confidently, and stress-free. Just say the word, and let’s get your spring sale underway.

Sacramento Area Real Estate Market Trends & Predictions For 2026

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 07:00:03 GMT

If there’s one thing we’ve learned as your Sacramento area real estate experts, it’s that people here are always curious about what comes next. Living in a city that’s constantly evolving—from new local businesses popping up to the steady growth around our suburban corridors—it makes sense that homeowners and soon-to-be buyers want to understand where the market is headed.

Whether you’re imagining your first set of keys, thinking about finding a place with a little more space, or simply keeping tabs on your home’s value as Sacramento continues to grow and shift, the future plays a big role in today’s decisions.

That’s why The Sherri Patterson Team is breaking down the latest 2026 housing forecast with a focus on what it actually means for us here in the Sacramento region. So let’s dive into what experts predict—and how those trends could shape your next steps right here at home.

A Much-Needed Bounce-Back in Home Sales

After a few years of sluggish movement, NAR is forecasting that existing-home sales could increase by around 14% in 2026. This signals that homeowners, buyers, and even those quietly considering a move may be entering a livelier market. However, while this is a great sign for our housing market, this doesn’t mean to expect a frenzy everywhere.

Expect More Stability in Home Prices

Along with the uptick in sales, experts estimate home-prices will climb by about 4% next year. So, while we’re not talking about double-digit price jumps across the board, the trajectory is certainly upward—supported by steady demand and limited supply.

Mortgage Rates May Ease, but Slowly

One of the key factors enabling the rebound: borrowing costs. You can expect mortgage rates to average near 6% for a 30-year fixed rate in 2026—a modest descent from current levels. However, this isn’t a return to the ultra-low rates of several years ago, so affordability will still be a challenge for some.

Why This Shift Is Happening

So, what’s actually driving all these changes in the market? A lot, as it turns out—and it’s more than just mortgage rates. Behind the scenes, a mix of economic strength, shifting buyer demographics, and steady building activity is reshaping the landscape.

When you look at it all together, the market’s 2026 outlook starts to make a lot more sense. Here’s a closer look at the key factors fueling the shift.

1. Jobs Are Holding Up & Builders Are Working

Steady job-growth continues to support housing demand, and more supply—especially from new-home construction in certain markets.

2. Expanding Inventory

The upward momentum in listings and building activity are helping keep home prices from climbing at the rapid pace we saw during the pandemic. That means more options for buyers and more competitive pricing as sellers are realizing they don’t have all the power in our current market.

3. Buyer Profile: Changing Shapes

A couple of interesting shifts: the “typical” home buyer age is now nearing 59 years old, repeat buyers averaging around 62. Additionally, the number one reason people move today is because they want to be closer to friends and family.

First-time buyers are facing more hurdles: only about 21% of purchases lately come from first-timers—a low point historically – and the average age of a first-time buyer is 40. Their biggest struggle is finding an affordable property, and saving for a down payment.

What This Means for You—The Sherri Patterson Team’s Take on the Sacramento Market

Now that we’ve unpacked the forecast, let’s talk about what it actually means for you. Every housing market has its own personality, and Sacramento is no exception. While national predictions give us a big-picture idea, the real impact is felt right here at home—in our neighborhoods, price points, and day-to-day conversations with buyers and sellers.

So here’s our team’s take on how these trends could play out locally, and how you can position yourself for success whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply stay informed.

If You’re Planning to Buy…

With rates expected to ease a little and more supply coming on board, 2026 could be a good window to seriously explore home buying.
That said, “a little easier” doesn’t mean “super easy”—affordability still depends on your budget and your financial prep.
First-time buyers: If you’ve been waiting on the sidelines, now’s the time to get your ducks in a row (save for down payment, review your credit, talk to an agent).

If You’re Planning to Sell…

With home-sales projected to pick up, you might find more buyer activity next year—meaning your home could sell faster or for a stronger price than in a quieter market.
It’s still important to price thoughtfully. Homes sitting too long tend to require price reductions.
We can help you analyze our local market to set a strategy that aligns with next year’s trends.

If You’re Holding On (For Now)...

Even if you’re not actively buying or selling, knowing that the market may be entering a more active phase could help with planning: whether that’s refinancing, renovating, or repositioning your home for the future.
Home-equity remains strong, foreclosures/delinquencies remain historically low—good signals for overall stability.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, real estate isn’t just market charts or national predictions—it’s about the homes, families, and neighborhoods that make Sacramento such a special place to live. And this 2026 outlook brings a lot to feel optimistic about: more movement, more opportunity, and a little more breathing room than we’ve seen in recent years.

If you’re wondering what this means for your home in Midtown, Folsom, El Dorado Hills —or anywhere in the greater Sacramento region—our team is here to help. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply staying informed, we’d love to walk you through how these changes might impact your plans.

Reach out anytime. The Sherri Patterson Team is always here to help you make smart, confident decisions in today’s Sacramento market.

Gratitude Gathering

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 18:36:21 GMT

This years Gratitude Gathering was a wonderful evening celebrating the clients, friends and community we are so grateful to serve. Guests enjoyed a beautiful grazing board with yummy treats and were sent home with a homemade pie from Apple Hill as a small thank-you to enjoy with their family on Thanksgiving.

A heartfelt thank you to our co-sponsor, Cindi Taylor with Big Valley Mortgage for her continued support to our clients throughout their home-buying journey. We are also so grateful to The Shop for welcoming us into their beautiful store and offering our clients an exclusive holiday shopping event to kick off the season. We are truly grateful for our community and the partnerships that allow us to create moments like these.

Where to Find the Perfect Christmas Tree in Sacramento

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:58:04 GMT

There’s nothing quite like finding the perfect Christmas tree—the fresh scent, the excitement of decorating, and that instant wave of holiday cheer. Whether you’re searching for a classic fir, a family-friendly choose-and-cut experience, or the perfect holiday décor to go with your tree, Sacramento has plenty of festive spots to explore.

From beloved nurseries to local farms and charming holiday boutiques, The Sherri Patterson Team is sharing our top places to find your perfect Christmas tree this year.

DAvis Ranch

�� 13211 Jackson Road Sloughhouse, CA 95683

Looking for a holiday outing with true country charm? Davis Ranch is the place. Known for its homegrown produce and seasonal events, this spot becomes extra magical during Christmas. Their fresh-cut trees line the ranch with that unmistakable evergreen scent, and the farm setting makes the whole experience feel warm, wholesome, and family-friendly. You can browse different varieties, pick up local produce or handmade gifts, and soak up the festive atmosphere Sloughhouse is known for.

Green Acres Nursery & Supply

�� Multiple Locations

Green Acres is a Sacramento staple—and during the holidays, their nurseries transform into Christmas wonderlands. With locations throughout the area, they offer a wide range of fresh-cut firs along with wreaths, garlands, poinsettias, and all the winter greenery your home could need. What sets Green Acres apart is the shopping experience: knowledgeable staff, well-curated displays, and plenty of inspiration for decorating both indoors and out. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who wants their tree and holiday décor in one easy trip.

Dave’s Country Christmas at Vierra Farms

�� 3010 Burrows Ave, West Sacramento, CA 95691, USA

For a festive, family-focused experience, Dave’s Country Christmas at Vierra Farms delivers. This seasonal celebration features a beautiful selection of Christmas trees, twinkling lights, cheerful music, and plenty of activities that make it more than just a quick stop. The atmosphere is warm, rustic, and joyful—the kind of place where kids can sip cocoa while parents pick the perfect tree. It's a great choice if you want your outing to feel like a holiday tradition in the making.

Foothills Christmas Trees

�� 1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815 (use blue gate entrance)

If you want convenience without sacrificing quality, Foothills Christmas Trees is a longtime Sacramento favorite. With a convenient location at Cal Expo in Sacramento, you’ll find an impressive selection of fresh Oregon-grown firs—Noble, Nordmann, Douglas, and Silver tips—as well as delivery and flocking services. The atmosphere is cheerful and easygoing, with helpful staff who can point you toward the shape and size you’re looking for. Foothills is perfect for anyone wanting a great tree close to home, without the drive to a full farm.

Bambi’s Christmas Trees

�� Two Retail Locations & Zittel’s Farm

If you want a classic Christmas tree lot experience with a big selection and high-quality trees, Bambi’s Christmas Trees is a go-to in the Sacramento area. Their trees are fresh, beautifully shaped, and come in a variety of sizes—ideal whether you’re decorating a cozy corner or going for a dramatic living room showpiece. Bambi’s also partners with Zittel’s Farm, making it easy to pick up a tree while enjoying the charm of a local farm setting. Expect friendly service, plenty of options, and that nostalgic Christmas-tree-lot feel.

Dorothea’s Shoppe

�� 801 Sutter St, Folsom, CA 95630

Once your tree is home, it’s decorating time—and for that, Dorothea’s is a Sacramento treasure. Located in Old Folsom, this boutique is packed with ornaments, holiday décor, ribbons, garlands, nutcrackers, and Christmas charm in every corner. Dorothea’s is especially known for its themed trees and beautifully curated displays, making it an inspiring stop whether your style is classic, whimsical, or ultra-glam. If you want your tree to look like it belongs in a holiday magazine, THIS is where you go.

Whether you're strolling through a tree lot in Sacramento, visiting a local ranch in Sloughhouse, or turning your trip into a full holiday adventure in West Sac, there’s no shortage of festive places to find the perfect Christmas tree. At The Sherri Patterson Team, we love celebrating the communities we serve—and we’re here to help you find not just the right tree for the season, but the right home for every season of life.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm, bright, and joy-filled holiday season right here in Sacramento!

New Builds, New Perks: Why It’s a Great Time to Buy New Construction in Sacramento

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 21:55:22 GMT

If you’ve been exploring new homes around Sacramento—from Elk Grove to Roseville—you may have noticed more builder promotions popping up. The local housing market has cooled slightly, which means many builders are getting creative with incentives to attract buyers.

For anyone thinking about buying new construction in the Sacramento area, this shift could open the door to major savings and added perks.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we’re here to help you make sense of it all—why builders are offering these incentives, what’s motivating them, and how you can use these offers to your advantage. Let’s dive in!

A Slow New-Build Market

Over the past year, the housing market has slowed a bit—not just for resale homes, but for new-construction as well. Inventory for new homes continues to climb, with roughly 490,000 new houses available at the end of August 2025—about 4% higher than the same time last year, according to U.S. Census data .

Despite this increase, sales of new single-family homes have remained relatively mild throughout 2025, suggesting that many buyers are still hesitant to jump in, even with more options on the market. Combined with higher mortgage rates and ongoing affordability concerns, this market has encouraged builders to get creative—offering a variety of incentives to attract buyers instead of holding firm on price.

Builders Taking Action

To move inventory and stay competitive, builders have been ramping up their incentives—and the trend is gaining momentum. One of the most common perks today is the mortgage-rate buydown, where the builder pays or subsidizes part of the interest rate to help buyers secure lower monthly payments.

In fact, a recent report shows that more than two-thirds of new-home communities are currently advertising this type of incentive. Many builders are combining multiple offers—such as rate buydowns, closing-cost credits, and upgraded finishes—to stand out in a competitive market. While most prefer to keep base prices steady to preserve community values, there’s been a noticeable uptick in promotions, especially for quick move-in homes.

The reasoning is simple: holding unsold inventory costs money in financing, maintenance, and taxes, so it’s often smarter for builders to offer incentives and move homes faster.

5 Incentives to Look Out For When Browsing New Homes in Sacramento

Want to take advantage of these new-build perks? Here are five builder incentives you should keep an eye on, and what to ask when you see them:

Mortgage Rate Buy-Downs
Builders may offer to pay ‘points’ or subsidize part of the interest rate so your monthly payment is lower. This can make owning more affordable right from the start.
Closing Cost Credits
Some builders will cover a portion (or all) of the buyer’s closing costs—these are the fees you pay at closing and less cash up front.
Free or Discounted Upgrades / Design Center Credits
Builders may include premium finishes, appliance packages, upgraded flooring, or offer “flex dollars” you can use toward custom features at no extra cost. These help you get more value for your investment.
Price Reductions or Discounts on Inventory Homes
Especially for homes that are already built or near-completion, some builders reduce the price or offer a stronger discount compared to speculative builds.
Extended Rate Locks or Flexible Move-In/Closing Schedules
Because new builds sometimes have longer timelines, builders may allow you to lock in your interest rate for an extended period or offer flexible closing dates so you don’t feel rushed or stuck owning two homes temporarily.

If you’re considering a new home in the Sacramento area, now could be an ideal time to take a closer look at new-construction options. Still, not every incentive fits every buyer, so having a trusted local expert in your corner can make all the difference.

That’s where The Sherri Patterson Team comes in. With decades of experience and deep roots in the Sacramento market, we know how to navigate builder offers and uncover the true value behind the fine print. Whether you’re curious about the latest new-home communities or ready to start touring, we’re here to guide you through every step.

Let’s find the right new build—and the best deal—for your next chapter in Sacramento.

The Gift That Gives Back: Top Ways to Support Sacramento Businesses This Holiday Season

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:25:37 GMT

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we believe a home isn’t just a structure—it’s the life you build around it: the boutiques you browse in Midtown, the Folsom bakery you stop into for a treat, the local pet place you trust with your furry family members.

That’s why this holiday season, we’re supporting the people who make our neighborhoods vibrant: our local businesses ! Keep reading for some bite-sized tips for supporting our community during the holidays, plus a spotlight for multiple Sacramento gems we can’t stop recommending.

Small Business Saturday & The Numbers Behind Local Shopping

Small Business Saturday (November 29th) is more than a catchy hashtag or a chance to sleep in after Black Friday—it’s an intentional day (and mindset) to rally around the mom-and-pops that color our streets, sponsor our youth teams, and fill local storefronts with heart.

So, why does supporting local businesses matter? For one, the numbers speak volumes. According to a recent article , local businesses help keep money local by circulating sales tax revenue into essential services—your police, fire, streets, and trash pickup. Locally owned shops often support community nonprofits, choose local suppliers, and reinvest in hometown projects.

Beyond infrastructure, shopping local helps preserve the personality of our towns. Chains and online behemoths tend to flatten uniqueness; independent businesses fill our neighborhoods with quirks, stories, and a sense of place.

Tips to Support Local this Holiday Season

Here are some simple but impactful ways to support small businesses in our community:

Order takeout or delivery — When the holiday rush leaves you too tired to cook, skip the national chains and order from your neighborhood restaurant instead. Those delicious tacos or pizzas go a long way in helping local eateries thrive (and usually taste better anyway).

Write a positive review — It’s completely free and surprisingly powerful. A quick shout-out on Google or Facebook can help a small business get discovered by new customers. Your words might be the reason they gain a loyal fan.

Subscribe or snag a membership — Whether it’s a floral delivery service, a yoga studio, or a local wine club, a subscription helps businesses plan ahead and keeps your name on their “favorite customers” list all year long.

Buy local gift cards — Think of it as sending a little “I believe in you” note to your favorite shop. They get immediate support, and your friends or family get to treat themselves later. It’s a win-win that keeps money right here in our community.
Tip a little extra — The holidays are hectic for everyone, especially for those in service jobs. A few extra dollars can make someone’s day—and it’s one of the easiest ways to spread real holiday cheer.
Choose handcrafted gifts and local experiences — Forget cookie-cutter gifts! From handmade jewelry to pottery classes or concert tickets, local finds are filled with heart and story. Plus, you’ll be supporting the creative folks who make Sacramento one-of-a-kind.

Business Spotlights

the Shop by Design Shop

�� 8701 Auburn Folsom Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746

Created by the talented team behind Design Shop Interiors, this boutique is packed with beautifully curated furniture, décor, lighting, and all those small details that make a home feel elevated but still cozy.

What we love most is that their staff actually helps you style your home—not just sell you stuff. They’ll guide you on how to mix textures, layer décor, and bring your own personality into the design. If you’ve been thinking about refreshing your space, this place is the kind of inspiration boost that makes it hard to leave empty-handed.

fiori Italian Bistro

�� 614 Sutter St. | Suite C, Folsom, CA 95630

Tucked right in the heart of Folsom, Fiori Italian Restaurant is one of those cozy spots that feels like home the moment you walk in. Family-owned and full of charm, Fiori serves up delicious handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and the kind of Italian dishes that make you want to linger a little longer over a glass of wine.

It’s a go-to for celebrations, date nights, or simply a relaxed evening out. The atmosphere is intimate, the service is friendly, and the food—well, let’s just say it’s the type that makes you text your friends, “You have to try this place.”

more Than Olives

�� 713 Sutter St, Folsom, CA 95630

Looking for a foodie gift idea that’s actually exciting? More Than Olives in Folsom is one of our favorites. It’s a specialty shop filled with California-made extra-virgin olive oils, artisan balsamic vinegars, and gourmet goodies you didn’t even know you needed.

The best part? You can taste everything before you buy. Their team is happy to walk you through different flavor profiles—from bright and peppery to smooth and buttery—so you’ll walk out with something totally unique. Whether you’re shopping for a gift basket or hosting a holiday dinner, this place adds a little gourmet flair to any table.

Karen’s Bakery

�� 705 Gold Lake Dr, Folsom, CA 95630

Karen’s Bakery is a local classic—the kind of place people grow up loving and then keep coming back as adults. Whether it’s a beautifully decorated cake for a celebration or just a quick pastry and coffee on a Saturday morning, everything here feels like it’s made with care.

There’s something special about a bakery that remembers your favorite flavor or offers seasonal treats that instantly bring back memories. It’s those little personal touches that make Karen’s such a beloved part of the Sacramento food scene.

The Blossom Shop

�� 47 Natoma St D, Folsom, CA 95630

When you need flowers that say exactly what you mean, The Blossom Shop in Folsom always delivers—literally and figuratively. Their team creates gorgeous arrangements for every occasion, from birthdays and weddings to just-because moments that brighten someone’s day.

They’re known for their creativity and reliability (two things that are priceless when you’re planning an event), but also for being genuinely kind people who care about their customers. Shopping here means supporting artists who turn everyday gestures into something beautiful.

Lava Cap Winery

�� 2221 Fruitridge Rd, Placerville, CA 95667

A quick drive up to Placerville will land you at Lava Cap Winery, and trust us—it’s worth the trip. Nestled in the rolling Sierra foothills, this family-owned winery offers not only incredible views but also estate-grown wines that rival anything from Napa.

Their tasting room is relaxed and welcoming—perfect for a weekend outing or a low-key holiday adventure with friends. And when you buy a bottle (or two) to take home, you’re supporting local agriculture and a winemaking family that truly loves what they do.

Pushkin’s Bakery

�� Midtown, Roseville, Arden-Arcade

If you or someone you know eats gluten-free or dairy-free, Pushkin’s Bakery is going to be your new best friend. Everything on their menu—from pastries to sandwiches—is completely free of wheat, gluten, and dairy… but you’d never know it from the taste.

Founded by a local couple who wanted to make allergy-friendly food everyone could enjoy, Pushkin’s has become a Sacramento staple. It’s cheerful, delicious, and inclusive; a spot that makes you feel good about what you’re eating and where you’re spending your money.

Pet Evolutions

�� 25065 Blue Ravine Rd #110, Folsom, CA 95630

For our fellow pet parents, Pet Evolutions in Folsom is one of those rare finds that feels more like a community than a business. They offer grooming, high-quality pet products, and some of the friendliest service around.

What really stands out is their compassion. They go above and beyond for their customers—even sending flowers when someone loses a pet. That kind of thoughtfulness can’t be taught; it’s just who they are. Supporting Pet Evolutions means keeping that warmth and care right here in our community.

Burning Barrel Brewing Company

�� Rancho Cordova and Placerville

And for our craft beer lovers, Burning Barrel Brewing Company in Rancho Cordova is a local favorite with serious flavor. They’ve built a loyal following thanks to their creative brews, fun taproom vibe, and regular events that bring people together.

Whether you’re sampling a seasonal release, hanging out with friends, or grabbing a gift card for the beer enthusiast in your life, Burning Barrel is one of those businesses that reminds you how good local can be. It’s community, conversation, and great beer—all in one spot.

Some Honorable Mentions:

Dirt Busters Car Wash | Roseville, CA

Blue Rock Landscape | El Dorado Hills, CA

Del Rio's Sweet Treats | Shingle Springs, CA

Foothill Dog Rescue | Shingle Springs, CA

Ever Woof Dog Accessories | Online

Pottery World Home Decor and Restaurant | Rocklin, CA

Sweetie Pie's Restaurant and Bakery | Placerville, CA

We love the Sacramento Area–its trails, its rivers, and its creative entrepreneurs. So when you choose to buy local this holiday season, you’re choosing to invest in people who live here, raise families here, and shape the character of our communities.

If your holiday season includes finding a new home, relocating (local or national), or simply exploring what Sacramento has to offer, The Sherri Patterson Team is here for you. Reach out anytime, and we’ll guide you home—and maybe introduce you to your next favorite local business along the way!

How to Find a Reliable Moving Company in Sacramento (and Avoid Scams)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 18:03:28 GMT

Let’s be honest—moving is one of those “great in theory, exhausting in practice” life events. You’ve found your next dream home in Sacramento, but now you’re knee-deep in bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, and endless to-do lists. The secret to a smoother move? Finding a moving company you can actually trust.

That’s where The Sherri Patterson Team comes in. As your go-to Sacramento real estate experts, we’ve seen our fair share of moving days—some smooth, some not so much. So before you hand over your furniture (and your sanity), we’re breaking down how to find a reliable mover, what to expect when comparing quotes, and the red flags you should definitely avoid. Whether you’re relocating across Midtown or moving out toward El Dorado Hills, these tips will help you keep calm, organized, and scam-free.

First step? Research companies.

Not all moving companies are created equal. Before you hand over your belongings—or your credit card—do some homework. Start by checking whether the company is licensed and insured. In the U.S., interstate movers should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number.

Reviews are another important piece of the puzzle. Read recent customer experiences on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to see how the company handles complaints. A moving company with consistently poor reviews—or none at all—is a red flag.

And if you’re not sure where to start? Ask around! Friends, family, and yes— The Sherri Patterson Team —is happy to share local recommendations. (We’ve got the inside scoop on the movers who actually show up on time.)

Next, get estimates.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request estimates from at least three different moving companies. This not only helps you get a sense of the average cost but also makes it easier to spot quotes that are suspiciously low (a classic scam tactic).

Movers may calculate their rates differently: some charge by weight, others by the hour, and some use a combination of both. Cross-country moves tend to be priced by weight and distance, while local moves often charge hourly.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when comparing estimates:

In-home vs. virtual estimates: In-person walk-throughs are the most accurate, but many movers now offer reliable video estimates.

Binding vs. non-binding estimates: A binding estimate means the price won’t change unless you add services. A non-binding one can increase if your move takes longer or your load is heavier than expected.

Additional fees: Ask about fuel charges, stair fees, or charges for heavy items like pianos or safes. These can add up quickly.

Read the contract carefully.

Here’s where many homeowners get caught off guard: the fine print. Imagine this scenario—your items finally arrive at your new home after a long-distance move, but instead of unloading them, the movers park the truck in your driveway and demand an extra fee before they’ll bring anything inside. Unfortunately, this kind of “hostage” situation happens more often than you think, and it usually comes down to not reading the contract closely.

Before signing, make sure you understand:

Delivery window: Some companies give a delivery range rather than an exact date. Know what that means for your schedule.

Payment terms: Avoid companies that demand large upfront deposits. Most legitimate movers only require partial payment before delivery.

Liability coverage: Basic coverage is often just 60 cents per pound per item—which means if your 50-inch TV is damaged, you’ll get a fraction of its actual value unless you upgrade to full-value protection.

When in doubt, ask questions. A reputable mover will explain the terms clearly and won’t pressure you into signing.

Extra tips to make your move smoother.

Even after finding the right company, there are ways to save money and protect your move. Keep these in mind:

Move in the off-season: Summer is peak moving season, which means higher rates. If possible, schedule your move in the winter months or mid-week for potential discounts.

Consider moving insurance: Standard liability coverage won’t cover everything. Third-party moving insurance can give you peace of mind, especially for high-value items.

Declutter before you move: Fewer boxes = less weight = lower cost. Donate, sell, or toss items you don’t want to pay to move.

Ask about packing services: Some movers offer professional packing for an added fee. If you’re short on time, it may be worth the cost.

Stay organized: Label boxes clearly by room and keep essentials (like toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents) with you—not on the truck.

Finding the right moving company is a game-changer—it can turn a chaotic, stressful day into a smooth transition that actually feels exciting. With a little research and planning, you’ll be unpacking those boxes in no time (hopefully with pizza and a cold drink waiting).

And if you’re making a move here in the Sacramento area, The Sherri Patterson Team is always here to help. From recommending reliable local movers and trusted cleaners to connecting you with our favorite florists, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just thinking about your next chapter, reach out anytime. We’re always happy to share our favorite local resources—and maybe a few moving day survival tips, too.

12th Annual Harvest Fest

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 23:04:13 GMT

What a perfect fall day celebrating community, gratitude, and amazing clients! From hayrides and pumpkins to face painting and a wandering magician, our hearts are full.

A special thank you to our amazing co-sponsor, Kelly Cort and her team with Guild Mortgage, and to all of our wonderful vendors who generously donated to our raffle prizes. Your support makes this event so special year after year!

Sacramento’s Best Coffee Shops to Visit This Fall

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:53:09 GMT

As crisp, autumn air settles over Sacramento, there's no better way to embrace the season than by curling up with a warm cup of coffee at one of our city's charming local cafés. Whether you're a latte lover or an espresso enthusiast, Sacramento's coffee scene has something special to offer.

As your local experts, The Sherri Patterson Team is sharing our favorite spots to sip, savor, and stay cozy this fall in Sacramento.

Milka Coffee Roasters

�� 1501 G St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Nestled in a beautifully restored 1861 Victorian building, Milka Coffee Roasters offers more than just a great cup of coffee—it’s an experience. Their menu features meticulously crafted drinks like the sparkling espresso and seasonal lattes, perfect for the fall weather. Don't miss their selection of local pastries and kombucha, adding a delightful touch to your visit. Overall, Milka’s commitment to quality and community makes it a must-visit for coffee aficionados.

Scorpio Coffee

��1905 16th St, Sacramento, CA 95811

Scorpio Coffee is a haven for those seeking an authentic coffee experience. Their menu boasts inventive offerings like the matcha cream soda and hojicha latte, alongside classic favorites. Their minimalist design and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal spot to relax or catch up with friends. Scorpio's dedication to fresh, healthy ingredients ensures every sip is both satisfying and nourishing.

Camellia Coffee Roasters

�� 1200 R St Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95811

This local shop brings a touch of elegance to Sacramento's coffee scene. Known for their Ethereal blend, a harmonious mix of Brazilian and Ethiopian beans, they offer a range of beverages that cater to all palates. The café's inviting ambiance and friendly staff create a warm environment, perfect for enjoying a leisurely fall afternoon.

Seasons Coffee Roasters

�� 2420 N St Suite 105, Sacramento, CA 95816

Found inside the historic CLARA building at 2420 N Street, Seasons Coffee Roasters is a family and farmer-owned café that prides itself on delivering fresh, sustainable coffee. Their seasonal offerings and cozy setting make it a great place to unwind. Whether you're grabbing a quick cup or settling in for a while, Seasons provides a comforting and community-focused experience.

Sana’a House Café

�� 901 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814

For a truly unique coffee experience, visit Sana’a House Café. Specializing in traditional Yemeni coffee and chai, they use authentic roasting and brewing methods to create rich, flavorful drinks. The café's warm hospitality and distinctive offerings make it a standout choice for those looking to explore different coffee cultures this fall.

Mast Coffee

�� 2421 17th St, Sacramento, CA 95818 & 1430 28th St, Sacramento, CA 95816

With TWO stellar locations, Mast Coffee is known for its beautifully roasted and curated coffees. Their commitment to quality is evident in every cup, whether you're enjoying a classic espresso or one of their seasonal specials. The café's cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff ensure a delightful coffee experience every time.

The Mill

�� 1827 I St, Sacramento, CA 95811

The Mill offers a refined coffee experience with a focus on precision and curiosity in their roasting and preparation. Their dedication to quality is reflected in every cup, making it a perfect spot for coffee enthusiasts seeking a thoughtfully crafted beverage. The café's inviting space and expert baristas create a welcoming environment for all.

Pro Tip? Take your coffee outside to their gorgeous garden patio. You won’t regret it.

As the leaves change and the air turns cooler, these local coffee shops provide the perfect setting to enjoy the flavors of fall. Whether you're looking for a traditional brew or an innovative new flavor, Sacramento's coffee scene has something to offer every palate. So grab your favorite mug and explore these cozy spots around town—you might just find your new favorite fall hangout.

Why 50% of Homes Are Selling Below Asking—and How Sacramento Sellers Can Avoid It

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 17:45:22 GMT

If you’ve been following national real estate news, you’ve probably noticed the headlines: about half of homes are closing for less than the asking price. At first glance, that can feel like a red flag for sellers. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be.

The market has shifted from the bidding wars of the last few years to something much more balanced. And while that means strategy matters more than ever, sellers who understand today’s trends are still walking away with strong offers. Let’s take a closer look.

From Frenzy to “Normal”

Right now, about 50% of homes are selling under asking price, according to the latest data from Cotality . While that might seem discouraging, it’s actually a return to normal after a few unusual years.

Here’s how the numbers stack up:

2018–2019 : About 50–55% of homes sold below asking. That was standard for the market.
2021–2022 : Record-low interest rates and a flood of buyers flipped the script—only about 25% of homes sold under asking. Overpricing wasn’t a dealbreaker back then.
2025 : We’re back at roughly 50% under asking, which aligns with long-term trends.

So, no—this isn’t a “bad” market. It’s simply a more typical one. Sellers just need to adjust their expectations and approach accordingly.

Why This Matters If You’re Selling Your House

Here’s the bottom line: pricing is everything.

During the boom years, homes practically sold themselves—even with aggressive price tags. Now, buyers are more selective. They’ve got stricter budgets, more options, and less urgency. That means your listing price has to be on point from day one.

The first two weeks on the market are make-or-break. That’s when serious buyers are circling. Miss your price in that critical window, and your home risks getting overlooked. Once a listing goes stale, price cuts and longer days on market usually follow.

But don’t let that discourage you—because the flip side is just as true. About half of homes are still selling at or above asking. And those sellers are the ones who nail their pricing strategy from the start.

Tips for Properly Pricing Your Home

Want to keep your home out of the “price-cut” category? Here’s how:

1. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

Skip the online guesswork. Zillow and other sites can’t capture the nuances of your neighborhood or the upgrades you’ve made. A CMA from a local realtor (like us!) gives you a precise picture of what homes like yours are actually selling for right now. The Sherri Patterson Team can create a customized CMA to help you understand your home’s true market value.

2. Don’t overprice “just to test it.”

Starting too high is the fastest way to scare off buyers and end up lowering your price later. Price competitively from the get-go.

3. Consider buyer psychology.

A fair, realistic price gets buyers excited—and excited buyers make stronger offers.

4. Factor in current market conditions.

Interest rates, inventory, and local demand matter. What worked in last year’s market won’t always work today.

5. Be flexible.

Sometimes, external factors (like economic shifts or interest rate hikes) can impact demand. Being open to adjusting your strategy will keep you competitive.

Sacramento’s housing market isn’t broken—it’s simply back to balance. And balance means sellers can still win if they approach the process with the right strategy. The difference between selling below asking and securing the price you want comes down to how you set—and adjust—your listing price.

If you’re thinking of selling, don’t trust an online estimate to guide one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. The Sherri Patterson Team is here to run the numbers, give you a personalized CMA, and help you build a pricing strategy that works in today’s market.

Best Sacramento Parks for a Fall Picnic

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 18:03:19 GMT

Fall in Sacramento is the kind of season that begs you to be outside. The weather is mild, the leaves are putting on a show, and the parks are bursting with perfect spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy some fresh air. Whether you’re looking for lively atmospheres, quiet escapes, or family-friendly spaces with plenty to do, Sacramento has a park for every kind of picnic.

Here’s our list of the top local spots to enjoy an autumn afternoon.

William Land Park

��3800 W Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822

Known simply as “Land Park” by locals, this sprawling city park offers more than just picnic tables—it’s home to some of Sacramento’s most beloved attractions. You can visit the Sacramento Zoo, take the kids to Fairytale Town, or let little ones enjoy the rides at Funderland. The WPA Rock Garden is a peaceful place for a quiet picnic, while the golf course and wide-open lawns offer room to play and relax.

McKinley Park

�� 601 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95816

McKinley Park is one of Sacramento’s most picturesque picnic destinations. Its rose garden blooms beautifully into the fall, and the park’s wide lawns, playground, and community center offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic picnic among the flowers or a family day out, McKinley is always a good choice.

Tahoe Park

�� 3501 59th St Sacramento, CA 95820

Lively, welcoming, and full of energy, Tahoe Park is perfect for people-watching while you enjoy your meal. There’s a playground for the kids, plenty of grassy areas for tossing a frisbee, and it’s dog-friendly—so bring your four-legged friend along for the fun.

Woodlake Park

�� 500 Arden Wy, Sacramento, CA 95815

If you’re craving a quieter, tucked-away picnic experience, Woodlake Park is a hidden gem worth seeking out. Shady trees, peaceful surroundings, and a more relaxed vibe make this the perfect spot for reading a book, catching up with a friend, or simply enjoying a moment of stillness in nature.

River Bend Park

�� 2300 Rod Beaudry Dr, Sacramento, CA 95827

Set along the American River, River Bend Park offers breathtaking natural views that make any picnic feel extra special. With trails, fishing spots, and plenty of wildlife to watch, you can turn your lunch into a whole day of outdoor exploration.

Belle Cooledge Park

�� 5600 S Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822

This family-friendly park is a local favorite for its open grassy fields, walking paths, and playgrounds. Ample shade makes it a comfortable spot for a fall afternoon, and the nearby library is a nice bonus if you want to add a little reading time to your day. Kids love the space to run around and make new friends, while parents appreciate the clean, well-kept grounds.

East Portal Park

�� 1120 Rodeo Way, Sacramento, CA 95819

East Portal Park combines charm and functionality with picnic areas, bocce ball courts, and a peaceful neighborhood setting. Its fenced playgrounds and ball field make it ideal for families, while the East Portal Clubhouse offers a cozy indoor option for gatherings. With its gently sloping lawns and groves of shade trees, it’s a relaxing place to spend a crisp autumn afternoon.

Sacramento’s parks are at their best in the fall—offering cool weather, golden leaves, and endless opportunities to slow down and savor the season. From the lively buzz of Tahoe Park to the peaceful river views at River Bend Park, there’s a picnic spot for every mood.

If you’re ready to find a home near your favorite park—or in a neighborhood with plenty of green space— The Sherri Patterson Team can help you get there. Contact us today, and let’s start your search in a community where your perfect picnic spot is just around the corner.

The Hidden Cost of Delaying Home Repairs in Sacramento

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 17:44:34 GMT

Between busy workdays, weekend plans, and everything else life throws your way, it’s easy to let little home repairs slide. A wobbly cabinet handle, uneven pool patio, or a slow-dripping faucet might not seem urgent—but over time, these small issues can pile up into what’s called deferred maintenance. Left unchecked, they can affect your home’s value and lead to bigger, more expensive problems.

The Sherri Patterson Team is here to share what deferred maintenance really means, why it’s worth staying ahead of, and which simple projects you can tackle now to keep your Sacramento home in great shape.

What is Deferred Maintenance—and Why Should You Care?

Deferred maintenance is the term used for home repairs or routine upkeep that’s been postponed—often because of budget constraints, busy schedules, or simply not realizing there’s an issue. Things like peeling paint, full gutters, or dusty HVAC filters may not seem urgent, but they can build up and lead to major problems if left unchecked.

Delaying basic upkeep can impact your home’s resale value, create inspection hurdles when it’s time to sell, and even pose safety risks. Buyers tend to see neglected maintenance as a red flag, which could mean fewer offers—or none at all. Being proactive today can help you avoid expensive repairs and unnecessary stress later.

8 Maintenance Tasks That Help Prevent Depreciation

1. Check Plumbing for Leaks

Water damage is sneaky and expensive, so don’t ignore small plumbing issues. Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of moisture or mildew. A slow drip may seem minor but can waste gallons of water and cause mold or rot over time.

2. Service Your HVAC System

Heating and cooling systems work hard year-round, so it’s important to show them some love. Replace air filters every one to three months to keep air flowing freely and reduce strain on your system. It’s also a good idea to schedule professional maintenance twice a year—once in the spring for the A/C and once in the fall for the furnace.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters might not be glamorous, but they’re essential to your home’s health. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof, siding, and even your foundation. Make it a habit to clear leaves and debris twice a year—typically in the spring and fall—and always check that downspouts are directing water at least three feet away from your home.

4. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can lead to sky-high energy bills and extra wear on your HVAC system. Check for air leaks by feeling around the edges for cool air or using a candle to detect movement. Re-caulk gaps or add weather stripping where needed. It’s a quick weekend project that pays off in energy savings and comfort.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

These little devices can save your life—but only if they’re working properly. Test each alarm monthly and replace the old units immediately with a new 10-year battery model; they are not cheap, but they will last 10 years and save you money over the long haul.

6. Inspect the Roof Regularly

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Take a walk around your house to spot missing shingles, signs of moss growth, or areas that look saggy or discolored. Addressing these issues early can prevent expensive leaks and extend the lifespan of your roof. If you’re uncomfortable climbing a ladder, hire a pro for a quick inspection.

7. Flush Your Water Heater

Over time, sediment builds up in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and shortening its lifespan. Draining a few gallons from the tank once a year can help flush out this buildup. While it’s not a difficult task, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions—or call in a plumber if you’re unsure.

8. Refresh Exterior Paint and Trim

Faded or peeling paint isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it exposes your home to the elements. Check your siding, trim, and deck for flaking or worn areas. Touching up paint or staining exposed wood helps prevent moisture intrusion and keeps your home looking sharp and well-cared for.

Keeping up with small home repairs now can save you from major headaches later. Not only does it protect your investment, but it also helps your home stay market-ready—whether you’re thinking about selling soon or planning to enjoy it for years to come.

A little regular upkeep goes a long way in keeping your space comfortable, safe, and appealing to future buyers. And if you’re unsure where to start or need a few trusted local pros, The Sherri Patterson Team can connect you with reliable Sacramento area contractors who can help get the job done right.

Dinner Made Easy: Top Meal Prep Companies in Sacramento

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:51:20 GMT

Here in Sacramento, where the days are filled with riverfront strolls, farmers market treasures, and family-friendly festivals, dinner should be the highlight—not a hurdle. That’s why local meal-prep companies have stepped up to offer ready-made, wholesome meals that align with our city’s vibrant, health-conscious lifestyle.

Let’s explore the top providers that ensure Sacramento families, busy medical professionals, and fitness enthusiasts can fuel up and gain some valuable time back.

Roseville Meal Prep | Website

Founded with the motto “Don’t fret, let us do the prep,” Roseville Meal Prep crafts low-calorie, portion-controlled meals under 500 calories—balanced, tasty, and locally sourced in Northern California. They emphasize eco-friendly practices through a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag) and Clean Container Program, helping you reduce waste. Ideal for optimizing macros without cooking, their weekly rotating menu (released Tuesdays) includes hearty veggie frittatas and lean protein dishes, all delivered fresh straight to you.

Grub Boxx | Website

Sacramento-born and chef-led, Grub Boxx delivers never-frozen meals to your porch within 24 hours of cooking. Their weekly rotating menu offers eight globally inspired entrées—like creamy lemon-dill salmon, crispy honey chicken, or steak fajita bowls—all under 500 calories. There’s no subscription required; just order five or more meals by Thursday, and enjoy free Sunday delivery or handy local pickup. Sacramentans praise the high-quality, chef, and cardiologist-designed dishes.

Pandamomo Delivery | Website

Known locally as “Panda Momo,” this meal-prep caterer focuses on fresh, healthy meals with both prep and catering options (minimum eight meals). Choose your protein and sides: they're delivered hot and ready-to-eat across Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom, and more (typically on Mondays). Founder Harley Cantrell’s mission is to eliminate cooking stress with nutritious, flavorful fare created right here in our region.

Prepped Eats | Website

Sacramento-founded in 2020, Prepped Eats delivers affordable, locally-sourced meals for health-minded, time-pressed customers. Their GMO-free, customizable dishes cater to various dietary needs and include organic ingredients. They deliver every Sunday (8 AM–3 PM), saving you hours of grocery prep. A local Redditor even noted a $4.99 “Surprise Bag” packed with about a pound of real food—real value over fast food.

Trifecta Nutrition | Website

Trifecta offers clean, organic, chef-prepared meals focused on nurturing mind, body, and social well-being. Fully cooked and ready-to-heat, their plans accommodate diverse dietary preferences—Keto, Paleo, vegan, Whole30—with sustainable packaging and nutrition coaching via their app. Headquartered just 30 minutes away in Davis, they stand out for organic, low-sodium, macro-tailored dishes.

MealPro | Website

MealPro delivers nationwide from their Citrus Heights hub, offering vacuum-sealed, chef-prepared meals customizable by protein, carbs, and veggies. Their meal selections include fitness, medical, heart-healthy, bodybuilding, and fully custom options—no subscription required. Meals arrive chilled in thermal boxes and are ready to heat, with large portions making MealPro a budget-friendly option based on cooked-food weight per price.

Final Thoughts – Dinner Made Easy, Sacramento Style

Sacramento’s meal-prep scene offers everything from calorie-counting convenience to dietitian-backed wellness options and budget-friendly solutions—all designed to enhance your daily routine. Whether you're winding down after a day at the Capitol, training for one of our epic bike trails, or simply craving quality meals without the kitchen chaos, these services have your back.

Thinking of making a move to Sacramento? The Sherri Patterson Team is here to match you with homes close to farmers markets, along greenway trails, and near the best food-forward communities. Let’s help you live—and dine—like a local.

Why Sacramento Families Are Embracing Multigenerational Living

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:42:21 GMT

Across the country, an increasing number of families are opting for multigenerational living. In fact, in 2024 – 17% of all homebuyers specifically sought homes designed to accommodate multiple generations under one roof.

Whether it's aging parents moving in, adult kids staying close after college, or families sharing costs amid rising housing prices, multigenerational living is becoming a thoughtful and practical choice right here in our city.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we’ve noticed this trend firsthand. As Sacramento’s real estate evolves, we’re here to help you find or renovate a home that supports your family’s unique needs and values.

The Rise of Multigenerational Living in California

Multigenerational living is gaining traction across the country, and California is leading the way. In fact, five of the top ten U.S. cities for multigenerational households are located in the Golden State. Sacramento, while not in the top ten, is very much part of this statewide shift. As housing costs rise and family values remain strong, many local households are choosing to come together across generations—sharing space, support, and resources under one roof.

Mental Shifts: How to Make Caregiving Feel Less Like a Burden

Caring for a loved one can be fulfilling, but it can also feel overwhelming if boundaries and expectations aren’t clear. Here are a few mental tips to help this transition feel less like a burden and more like a blessing:

Redefine your role. Think of caregiving as a partnership instead of a chore—it’s about creating a support system, not doing everything yourself.

Set realistic expectations. Accept that there will be good days and bad days. Give yourself grace and focus on progress, not perfection.

Practice self-care. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure you’re also setting time aside for rest, hobbies, and personal space.

7 Tips to Set Up Your Home for Multigenerational Living

Every family is unique, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all layout for multigenerational households. Still, there are universal design and lifestyle tips that can help you create a peaceful, functional, and respectful shared space:

Create Private Zones | Everyone needs their own space. If possible, designate separate bedrooms, bathrooms, or even a guest suite to give each generation some privacy and independence.

Use Soundproofing Strategically | Add rugs, curtains, or even sound-insulating panels to reduce noise—especially if you have kids and older adults with different sleep or activity schedules.
Design a Shared Living Area | Think open-concept but flexible. Use furniture to create “zones” in a shared family room, and make sure there’s enough seating for everyone to gather comfortably.

Upgrade or Modify Bathrooms | Consider safety features like grab bars, walk-in showers, or non-slip mats if aging parents are moving in. Accessibility can go a long way in making your home safer for everyone.

Maximize Storage | Clutter builds fast with more people. Add labeled bins, extra shelving, and smart closet systems to keep things organized and easy to access.

Build a Shared Calendar System | Keep track of appointments, kids’ activities, meal plans, and more with a shared digital calendar or command center in the home. Communication is everything!

Discuss House Rules Early | Before move-in day, talk about expectations around chores, bills, noise levels, and guests. Clear communication from the start helps avoid tension down the road.

Consider a Home Renovation | If your budget allows, talk with a contractor about adding an in-law suite, converting a basement or garage, or making accessibility upgrades for aging family members.

Multigenerational living can deepen family bonds and lighten financial load—but it requires intentional space planning. Whether you’re renovating your current home or searching for one designed for multiple generations, The Sherri Patterson Team brings local expertise and care to the process.

We know Sacramento’s neighborhoods, schools, parks, and connectivity—and we’re ready to help you find the right fit for your growing family. Let’s create a home that suits everyone in your household!

Ways to Keep Cool This Summer in Sacramento

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:28:41 GMT

Summer in Sacramento is no joke! With temps often climbing into the triple digits, staying cool becomes more of a mission than a luxury. While some lucky families have pools in their own backyards, there are still plenty of local spots to beat the heat and have some fun while you're at it.

Whether you're in the mood for an outdoor adventure, a splash in the pool, or a cold treat, we’ve rounded up some of the best ways to cool down this summer—all right here in Sacramento and the surrounding areas!

hit the local pool

Not everyone has access to a private pool, but Sacramento has some top-notch community aquatic centers that are perfect for summer fun. The Barbara Morse Wackford Community & Aquatic Complex in Elk Grove is a family favorite. It features a water playground complete with slides and interactive features, three different pools, and even a deep-water obstacle course inflatable called “Double Trouble”—think of it as Wipeout for water lovers! Over in Folsom, the Steve Miklos Aquatic Center offers something for everyone with a 50-meter Olympic-sized pool, a water slide, diving boards, and a children's activity pool. Both locations offer public swim hours and family-friendly amenities that make them a great go-to for staying cool all summer long.

Float the River

If you’ve never floated down the Sacramento River , now is the time! This mellow summer tradition is a great way to connect with nature while keeping cool. The Sacramento River offers a calm, meandering flow that’s ideal for tubing, kayaking, or canoeing. You’ll pass by scenic farmland, shaded riverbanks, and might even spot some wildlife along the way. Make sure to pack sunscreen, a life vest, and some snacks for a relaxing day on the water. It’s a great option for a peaceful retreat just minutes from city life.

Visit a Local Splash Pad

Sacramento’s parks are an underrated gem in the summer. With more than 226 parks across 3,200 acres, many include free or low-cost splash pads and water features. One standout is the Bridgeway Island Spray Park in West Sacramento. It has a huge spray zone with water cannons, splash features, and shaded picnic areas—perfect for families. And while the Wackford Aquatic Complex doubles as a pool, it also has an awesome aquatic playground that younger kids love. It’s like a mini water park right in your neighborhood!

Grab Some Ice Cream at Leatherby’s

Nothing beats the heat like a cold treat! Leatherby’s Family Creamery is a Sacramento staple (and a team fave!) for a reason. Family-owned since 1982, Leatherby’s is known for its huge sundaes, creamy house-made ice cream, and old-school diner vibe. Whether you're craving a classic banana split, a towering sundae, or just a scoop of cookies and cream, this is the spot to indulge and cool down. Bonus: it’s as much about the experience as the treat itself.

Cold Drink at a Local Brewery or Coffee Shop

Sacramento is home to some seriously refreshing drink options. For something a little stronger, local distilleries like Midtown Spirits and Urban Roots roll out frozen slushie cocktails during the summer—perfect for those hot afternoons. Prefer caffeine over cocktails? Coffee favorites like Old Soul Co. , Pachamama , and Temple Coffee Roasters all offer iced lattes, teas, and cold brews that’ll keep you cool and caffeinated. It’s the perfect excuse to try something new from the summer menu.

Hit the Water Slides at Golfland Sunsplash

If you’re craving all-day water fun, head over to Golfland Sunsplash in Roseville. This water park has it all—from high-speed water slides and a lazy river to wave pools and play zones for younger kids. It’s a one-stop shop for thrill-seekers and families alike. Whether you're racing down the Thunder Falls or floating under the sun, it’s the ultimate place to cool off with a side of adrenaline.

Pick Up a New Water Sport at Sacramento State Aquatic Center

For those who want to mix fun with a little adventure, the Sacramento State Aquatic Center at Lake Natoma is the perfect summer destination. Just outside of downtown, this center offers lessons, camps, and equipment rentals for everything from sailing and windsurfing to kayaking, rowing, wakeboarding, and more. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle or want to try your hand at waterskiing, it’s a great way to beat the heat while picking up a new hobby. Equipment rentals start at just $12 per hour, making it an affordable and exciting way to spend your summer day.

Summer in Sacramento can be sizzling, but that doesn’t mean you need to stay cooped up in the A/C all season. From river floats and splash pads to water slides and frozen drinks, there are plenty of ways to make the most of our sunny days while staying cool. We hope this list inspires you to try something new and enjoy everything our amazing city has to offer. Stay safe, stay cool, and if you ever need help finding a home with a pool—we know just the team for the job! ��

Looking for more local living tips or thinking about buying or selling a home in the Greater Sacramento Area? Reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team—we're here to help!

Is It Time to Move? 10 Signs You’re Ready for a New Sacramento Home

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:01:26 GMT

Moving is a big decision—but sometimes, it's the best way to improve your quality of life. Whether you're feeling cramped, overwhelmed by maintenance, or simply ready for a change, recognizing the signs can help you make a confident move.

At The Sherri Patterson Team , we’ve helped countless families across Sacramento navigate the exciting (and sometimes emotional) journey of finding the perfect new home. From Elk Grove to East Sacramento, we understand that the right neighborhood, the right size, and the right timing can make all the difference. Let’s explore ten key signs that it might be time for a fresh start—and how a move could bring you closer to the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of.

1. You Need a Financial Reset

If your cost of living is stretching your budget to the breaking point, it might be time to consider a move. Rising rent, mortgage payments, or everyday expenses can make it hard to keep up—even if you’re earning a decent wage.

How do you know it’s time? If you’re barely scraping by after covering your bills, struggling to afford groceries, or unable to enjoy even the simplest pleasures, your city or neighborhood may no longer be financially sustainable. Moving to a more affordable area—like trading a high-priced Midtown condo for a budget-friendly home in Citrus Heights—can relieve stress, give you more financial breathing room, and improve your overall quality of life.

2. You Need More—or Less—Space

That cozy apartment or starter home might have been perfect when you first moved in, but life changes fast. Whether your family is growing, you’re working from home more often, or you just need extra room to breathe, feeling cramped is a clear sign it’s time to move somewhere else.

If the walls are starting to feel like they’re closing in and storage space is a daily struggle, upgrading to a larger home can improve your comfort, productivity, and overall happiness.

On the other hand, too much space can be just as much of a problem. If your home feels empty now that the kids have moved out, or you’re spending more time cleaning rooms you barely use, downsizing could be the right move. A smaller, more manageable home can free up time, reduce maintenance costs, and even put extra money in your pocket. If you find yourself closing off rooms or avoiding certain areas of your home, it might be time to transition to a space that better fits your current lifestyle.

3. Your Commute Is Too Long

If you’re spending hours getting from Elk Grove into downtown Sacramento every day, you’re probably feeling the crunch. Moving closer to work—or near one of the city’s growing job hubs—can give you back valuable time for family, hobbies, or simply unwinding. Time is one of your most valuable resources, and if you’re spending more of it in transit than actually enjoying your home, it might be time to move closer to work. Whether it’s a new job in a different city or just a desire to cut down on wasted hours, relocating to a more convenient location can drastically improve your daily routine and overall quality of life.

4. You Can’t Keep Up With Maintenance

Owning a home comes with responsibilities—lawn care, plumbing issues, roof repairs, and general upkeep. But if maintenance tasks are piling up faster than you can handle (or afford), it may be a sign that your current home is no longer the right fit. Maybe your once-perfect dream home has turned into a money pit, requiring constant repairs. Or perhaps the large yard that once felt like an asset for summer BBQs is now just a never-ending chore. If keeping up with maintenance has become overwhelming, downsizing to a smaller, more manageable home might be the stress-free solution you need.

5. Your Health Needs Have Changed

Life changes, and so do your health needs. Maybe you need a home without stairs due to mobility issues, or perhaps a drier climate would help with allergies or respiratory conditions. If your current living situation is making it harder to stay healthy and comfortable, moving might be the best way to improve your quality of life.

Access to healthcare is another key factor—if you’ve moved further from your preferred doctors or specialists, relocating can make a big difference in your day-to-day well-being.

Don’t forget—mental health matters too! If your surroundings are causing stress, anxiety, or a sense of isolation, relocating to a place that better suits your lifestyle can make a world of difference. Whether that means moving closer to supportive family and friends, finding a more peaceful environment, or simply starting fresh in a new location, prioritizing your health should always come first.

6. The Market Is In Your Favor

Even if you’re content where you are, it might be worthwhile to consider if the real estate market is giving you an opportunity too good to pass up. If home values in your neighborhood have skyrocketed, selling now could mean a huge financial gain that allows you to upgrade, downsize, or relocate somewhere you’ve always dreamed of.

Likewise, if mortgage rates are low or your dream home has suddenly become affordable, it might be the perfect time to make a move. Paying attention to market trends can turn what seems like a “someday” goal into a smart, financially rewarding decision today. Want to learn more about the state of the market in your neighborhood? Reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team for an in-depth look at home values.

7. You Don’t Love Your Neighborhood

Your neighborhood also plays a significant role in your overall quality of life. Sacramento is filled with diverse communities, from the vibrant energy of Midtown to the relaxed pace of Fair Oaks. If you’re no longer connecting with your current surroundings, a move within the Sacramento area could be just what you need to rediscover that sense of “home.” A change of scenery can bring a breath of fresh air and rejuvenate your daily life. When you look forward to stepping outside your front door, it can greatly improve your overall well-being.

8. Your Family Is Expanding

If you’re adding a couple of kids and/or pets to your brood, upgrading your home is a logical next step. Aside from needing more space, aspects you may have overlooked before—like A-rated school districts and that sweet neighborhood park—may be suddenly appealing. Don’t have kids? This rule still applies, since buying a house in a great school district is a big plus when it’s time to sell.

9. A Change in Job

Whether you’ve landed a promotion, started a new job in a different city, or switched to working remotely full-time, your home should support your professional life—not hinder it. If your current location is making your commute unbearable or your home office setup feels more like a closet than a workspace, it might be time to make a move. Even if you're not relocating cities, being closer to your new job or living in a community that aligns better with your lifestyle can make a big difference.

10. You’re Just Ready for a Fresh Start

Sometimes, the signs aren’t tangible—they’re emotional. Maybe your home holds memories that no longer serve you. Maybe you’ve outgrown the space emotionally even if it still “works” on paper. If you feel like you’re stuck in a rut or craving a change, that’s a valid reason to consider moving.

A new environment can inspire growth, bring new opportunities, and help you feel more in control of your future. If you’ve been daydreaming about a different neighborhood, city, or lifestyle, listen to that inner voice—it might be trying to tell you it’s time for something new.

Deciding to move is never a one-size-fits-all decision, but recognizing the signs can help you take the next step with confidence. Whether you’re looking to cut down your Sacramento commute, find a home that better fits your lifestyle, or simply start a new chapter in a new neighborhood, the right move can bring freedom, comfort, and peace of mind.

If you’re starting to think about what’s next, let’s talk. The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help you explore your options, understand the Sacramento market, and find a home that truly fits your lifestyle. Let’s turn that “maybe someday” into “I’m so glad we made this move.”

Sacramento’s Must-See Summer Concerts & Music Festivals for 2025

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 28 May 2025 21:03:09 GMT

Are you ready to fill this year’s summer bucket list? Luckily, Sacramento’s summer music scene is electric—bringing together live bands, outdoor festivals, and big-name performances for music lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking for free concerts under the stars, a weekend-long festival experience, or a night out with some of country music’s biggest stars, there’s something happening all season long.

The Sherri Patterson Team is here to share our guide to the best summer concerts and festivals in Sacramento this year!

Concerts in the Park

�� Cesar Chavez Plaza, Downtown Sacramento
�� Fridays (for the month of June)
�� Free! All ages welcome

A true Sacramento tradition, Concerts in the Park is the longest-running and largest free music festival in the city. Every Friday night during June, downtown transforms into a buzzing hub of music, community, and fun. Held at Cesar Chavez Plaza, this event features a diverse lineup of local and national artists, covering everything from indie and rock to hip-hop and pop.

Beyond the music, expect an array of local food trucks, vendors, and pop-up shops from local businesses. The best part? It’s free! Grab your friends, bring a lawn chair or blanket, and soak up the good vibes in the heart of Sacramento.

Orangevale Summer Palooza

�� Orangevale Community Park
�� June 6-8, 2025
�� Tickets available online

This three-day festival is all about summer fun, combining live music with family-friendly activities, delicious food, and local craft vendors. Orangevale Summer Palooza features multiple stages with a mix of rock, country, and pop performances. Festivalgoers can enjoy carnival rides, games, and a variety of food options, making it the perfect event for families and music lovers alike. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or relax with a cold drink in hand, this festival has something for everyone.

West Sac Rhythm on the River

�� Drake The Barn | 985 Riverfront St, West Sacramento
�� May 29, June 26, July 31, August 28 | 5:30 PM – 9 PM
�� Free!

West Sac Rhythm on the River is your go-to event for a relaxed evening of live music by the river. Hosted on the last Thursday of the summer months, each show has a unique theme and features both original and classic tunes performed by talented musicians. Families can enjoy the Family Fun Zone, while food and drinks are available for purchase. With a beautiful riverfront setting and a lineup of great artists, this concert series is a hidden gem in Sacramento’s summer music scene.

Farm-to-Fork Festival

�� Downtown Sacramento
�� September 26 - 28
�� Free entry!

While food may be the star of this festival, music lovers will be thrilled with the lineup of live performances that add to the lively atmosphere. The Farm-to-Fork Festival celebrates Sacramento’s status as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, with an incredible selection of farm-fresh bites, regional wines, and craft beer—all paired with a fantastic soundtrack of live bands performing throughout the weekend. Expect a mix of folk, rock, blues, and more, as local and national musicians take the stage to create the perfect soundtrack for this one-of-a-kind culinary and cultural event.

Aftershock Music Festival

�� Discovery Park, Sacramento
�� October 2-5, 2025
�� Tickets available online

Rock and metal fans, this one’s for you! Aftershock is one of the biggest rock festivals in the country, bringing massive names in rock, punk, and metal to Discovery Park. With an insane lineup every year, this festival delivers four days of headbanging, epic performances, and a high-energy crowd that makes it one of the most anticipated music events in Sacramento. Whether you’re there for the legendary headliners or to discover new heavy-hitting bands, Aftershock promises an unforgettable experience.

Sacramento isn’t just a great place for music—it’s an amazing place to live. If you’re looking to make the move or find your perfect home in the area, you need a real estate team that knows Sacramento inside and out.

That’s why you should work with The Sherri Patterson Team! We’re here to help you find the perfect home in a city full of life, culture, and great music. Contact us today to start your journey!

When Should You Adjust Your Home Insurance Coverage?

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 28 May 2025 20:37:24 GMT

Owning a home in Sacramento is an investment worth protecting. And while home insurance might not be something you think about every day, having the right coverage is crucial when the unexpected happens. From wildfires in nearby areas to flood risks and home upgrades, making sure your policy keeps up with your life can save you from some costly surprises.

So, when should you take a closer look at your coverage? The short answer: anytime there’s a big change in your home or your circumstances.

Whether you’re remodeling, adding safety features, or adjusting for local risks, updating your policy ensures you’re covered when it matters most. Let’s dive into the details.

Why Would You Need to Update Your Home Insurance?

As your home evolves, so should your insurance. Major renovations like expanding your kitchen or adding a second story increase your home’s value, which means you may need more coverage to match the new replacement costs. Additionally, rising local building costs could leave you underinsured if your current policy doesn’t reflect the true cost of rebuilding.

New high-value purchases, such as art collections or advanced entertainment systems, can also exceed policy limits, leaving gaps in coverage. On the other hand, safety upgrades like security systems, monitored alarms, or impact-resistant windows may qualify you for discounts. Regularly reviewing your policy ensures you’re adequately protected while potentially saving you money.

Top Home Renovations That Could Affect Your Coverage

Not all home projects are created equal—especially when it comes to insurance. Here are some that might require a policy adjustment:

Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen upgrade can drastically impact your home’s value. If you’ve added high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, or expensive countertops like quartz or marble, your replacement cost has likely increased. More luxurious finishes mean higher repair and replacement costs, so it’s essential to update your policy to reflect these changes. Otherwise, if a fire or flood damages your newly remodeled kitchen, you might not receive enough from your insurance to fully restore it.

Roof Replacement

A new roof is one of the most significant upgrades a homeowner can make, and it often affects insurance rates. Certain roofing materials, like metal or impact-resistant shingles, can lower premiums because they offer better protection against severe weather. However, if you’ve opted for high-end roofing materials such as slate or tile, your home’s overall value increases, and you may need additional coverage to reflect the higher replacement cost.

Adding a Pool

Pools are a great addition for family fun, but they also come with increased liability risks. Many insurers require higher liability coverage when a pool is added to a property due to the potential for accidents. Features like pool fencing, locked gates, and safety covers can help reduce risks and possibly lower the added insurance costs. Still, if you’re planning on installing a pool, it’s crucial to update your policy to ensure proper protection.

Finishing a Basement

Transforming a basement into a livable space adds square footage and increases your home’s value. Whether it becomes a guest suite, home theater, or personal gym, your insurer needs to know about the changes. Finished basements also introduce new risks, such as water damage or mold growth, so additional coverage for sump pumps and water backup protection may be necessary.

Home Renovations That Could LOWER Your Insurance Premiums

Good news—some upgrades might actually save you money! Here’s what could help:

Upgraded Electrical Systems

If your home still has outdated wiring, such as knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, your insurance premiums might be higher due to fire risks. Upgrading to modern electrical systems with circuit breakers and grounded outlets can significantly reduce these risks and lower your premiums.

Impact or Fire-Resistant Roofing

To avoid being prone to damage from fires or storms, impact-resistant roofing materials such as Class 4 asphalt shingles or metal roofing can protect against hail, wind, and debris. Many insurers offer discounts for these durable materials because they reduce the likelihood of expensive claims from storm damage.

Smart Security Systems

Installing a professionally monitored security system can reduce the risk of burglary, making your home safer and more attractive to insurance companies. Many insurers provide discounts for features like video surveillance, smart locks, and motion sensors.

Plumbing Upgrades

Old, corroded pipes can lead to leaks and costly water damage claims. Replacing outdated plumbing with modern materials like PEX or copper can prevent these issues and possibly lower your insurance premiums.

Sacramento-Specific Insurance Considerations

Living in Sacramento comes with unique home insurance concerns. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Wildfire Insurance

While the city of Sacramento itself isn’t in a high-risk wildfire zone, areas near Folsom, El Dorado Hills, and the foothills may require additional wildfire coverage. Standard policies may not fully protect against fire damage, so it’s worth checking if you need extra coverage.

Flood Insurance

Sacramento’s location near the Sacramento and American Rivers means some areas are prone to flooding, especially during heavy winter rains. Homeowners in designated flood zones may be required to carry additional flood insurance.

Pool Insurance

Pools are a staple of California living, and many Sacramento homes have them. Be sure to check that your liability coverage is sufficient in case of accidents.

Earthquake Insurance

While Sacramento isn’t as earthquake-prone as the Bay Area, it’s still in California, where quakes are always a possibility. Most standard policies don’t include earthquake coverage, so consider adding it if you want extra protection.

Your home is more than just a place to live, it’s where memories are made—and your investment deserves the best protection possible. Staying on top of your home insurance ensures that no matter what changes come your way, you’re financially secure.

The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help our Sacramento homeowners navigate the ever-changing real estate and insurance landscape. If you’re thinking about a renovation, buying a home, or just want to make sure you have the right coverage, reach out to us today.

Let’s make sure your home—and your peace of mind—are well protected!

Summer’s Calling: Explore the Best Outdoor Activities in the Greater Sacramento Area

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 17:57:38 GMT

Sacramento is a dream for outdoor lovers. With its rivers, trails, lakes, and parks, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing float down the river, an exhilarating bike ride, or a peaceful fishing spot, the Greater Sacramento Area has it all this summer.

The best part? You don’t have to travel far to find these outdoor escapes! The Sherri Patterson Team is here to dive into some of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors in and around Sacramento—complete with location recommendations and handy tips to make the most of your experience.

Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

Sacramento and its surrounding areas offer fantastic hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you prefer scenic river walks or rugged mountain trails, you’ll find something to enjoy. Auburn State Recreation Area is great for moderate to challenging hikes, Effie Yeaw Nature Center offers a peaceful nature walk, and Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park provides rolling hills and stunning views.

From shaded paths lined with oak trees to sweeping hilltop views, hiking in Sacramento provides a mix of natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Check trail conditions before heading out, especially in hotter months. If you enjoy birdwatching, bringing binoculars is a great idea!

Float the River & River Rafting

Sacramento’s rivers are perfect for cooling off in the summer while taking in scenic views. Floating down the American River is a local favorite, offering a leisurely way to enjoy the sunshine. If you’re looking for more excitement, whitewater rafting on the South Fork of the American River provides plenty of thrills.

Depending on your choice, you can either enjoy a slow float with friends or an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience. Expect to see stunning riverbanks, wildlife, and plenty of fellow adventurers. To make the most of your trip, bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Bike Rides

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Sacramento’s scenic landscapes, and the city has plenty of bike-friendly trails. The American River Bike Trail is a 32-mile paved path with river views and is great for both casual and long-distance rides. For a mix of paved and off-road trails, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is a fantastic choice.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, you’ll find routes that match your pace. Some trails offer stops at parks and picnic areas that make for a great day trip. To ensure a smooth ride, make sure to bring a helmet, bike lock, and plenty of water. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to ride in the summer.

Camping

Camping near Sacramento is a great way to unwind and connect with the beautiful nature in the area. Whether you prefer lakeside spots or mountain retreats, we know there’s a perfect campsite for you. ( Here’s a list of some of our favorite choices. ) From starry night skies to campfire cookouts, camping around Sacramento offers a refreshing break from city life—and many campgrounds provide amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits. To have the best experience, pack layers because temperatures can drop at night, and check for fire restrictions before lighting a campfire. Also, make sure to reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak season.

Paddleboarding

For a fun and relaxing water activity, paddleboarding is a fantastic way to explore Sacramento’s lakes. Lake Natoma and Folsom Lake are two of the best locations for paddleboarding. With calm waters, these spots provide an easy and enjoyable experience, perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Be sure to wear a life vest and bring a dry bag for your belongings. (Pro Tip: Mornings are usually the best time for calm water conditions.)

Fly Fishing

Sacramento’s rivers are home to excellent fly fishing spots, especially for trout and steelhead. The Lower Sacramento River and the American River are two top destinations for fly fishing. You can be sure to expect peaceful surroundings, plenty of fish, and a chance to refine your casting skills. Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare on the water and consider hiring a guide if you’re new to fly fishing .

Go on a Nature Walk

A simple yet rewarding way to enjoy the outdoors, nature walks are perfect for all ages. William Land Park and Cosumnes River Preserve offer serene trails, plenty of birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to slow down and appreciate nature. It’s a great way to appreciate nature in a calm and serene environment (and even try some bird watching!).

Outdoor Summer Camps

For kids and teens, outdoor summer camps offer fun-filled activities like hiking, swimming, and team sports. Some of the best options include Camp Sacramento , which offers classic outdoor adventure experiences, River Bend Park Camps for nature lovers, and Sacramento Adventure Playground for hands-on outdoor experiences.

Sacramento is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise that offers everything from thrilling river adventures to peaceful nature walks. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or just a few hours of fresh air, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your sunscreen, head outside, and start exploring all that Sacramento has to offer!

Home Equity Tips Every Sacramento Homeowner Should Know

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:44:16 GMT

If you’ve been in your Sacramento Area home for a while—whether it’s in East Sac, Land Park, or the surrounding suburbs—you might have built up more equity than you realize.

But are you making the most of it?

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage, and it’s a powerful financial tool. Whether you're thinking about a home renovation, consolidating debt, or even funding a big life event, your home’s value can work for you in ways you might not have considered.

At The Sherri Patterson Team , we believe your home is more than just a place to live—it’s a valuable asset that can help you achieve financial freedom. That’s why we’re breaking down smart ways to use your home equity, from refinancing to eliminating PMI, so you can make the best choice for your future.

Here are a few ways to tap into your home’s equity:

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

A HELOC is a flexible credit line that allows you to borrow against your home’s equity as needed. Unlike a home equity loan, a HELOC works more like a credit card, giving you access to funds over time rather than in one lump sum. This is a great option for ongoing expenses, such as home improvements or emergency funds, but be mindful that interest rates can fluctuate.

Cash-Out Refinance

A cash-out refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new one for a higher amount, allowing you to take the difference in cash. This can be a smart move if you need funds for major expenses and can secure a lower interest rate in the process. However, since this increases your loan balance, it’s essential to ensure the new terms align with your financial goals.

Use Your Home Equity to Eliminate PMI

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is an added cost that protects lenders, not homeowners. If you originally put down less than 20% on your home, you’re likely paying PMI each month. The good news? Once you’ve built up at least 20% equity, you can remove PMI by refinancing or requesting lender approval. Using your home equity strategically can save you hundreds of dollars per year by eliminating this extra fee.

Home Equity Loan

A home equity loan allows you to borrow a lump sum against your home’s value, typically at a fixed interest rate. This option is ideal for major expenses like home renovations, debt consolidation, or even funding educational costs. Since the loan is secured by your home, interest rates are often lower than personal loans or credit cards. Just keep in mind that missing payments could put your home at risk.

Reverse Mortgage

For homeowners aged 62 and older, a reverse mortgage offers a way to tap into home equity without monthly payments. Instead of making payments, the loan balance grows over time and is repaid when the home is sold or when the borrower moves out permanently. This type of loan can provide financial relief by covering medical expenses, supplementing retirement income, or even paying off an existing mortgage to reduce monthly expenses.

How much have Sacramento homes appreciated?

Sacramento home prices have risen by about 2% over the past year , making it a solid market for homeowners looking to build wealth. Experts predict average appreciation will continue to climb steadily throughout the year, building on the equity your home has already accumulated. Also, demand continues to be strong due to the city’s proximity to the Bay Area, thriving job market, and fantastic quality of life. From the vibrant Midtown scene to the relaxing American River Parkway, Sacramento remains an amazing place to call home.

How do you calculate your home’s equity?

Understanding your home equity starts with a simple calculation: subtract your outstanding mortgage balance from your home’s current market value. For example, if your home is worth $400,000 and you owe $250,000, you have $150,000 in equity. Knowing this number is essential for determining your borrowing power and financial options.

There are several ways to estimate your home’s value. You can use online valuation tools, check recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood, or consult our team for a more accurate assessment. If you’re planning to use your home equity, having a precise valuation will help you make informed decisions about loans, refinancing, or selling your home.

Your home equity isn’t just a number—it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re looking to make home improvements, invest in your future, or free up some extra cash, there are plenty of ways to put your equity to good use. Sacramento’s real estate market has seen steady appreciation, making now a great time to explore your options.

If you’re curious about how much equity you’ve built up or want to discuss your best financial move, let’s chat! The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help you navigate your home’s hidden wealth and make decisions that support your goals.

A Local Guide to the Best Garden Nurseries & Plant Shops in the Sacramento Area

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 22:14:52 GMT

Sacramento is a plant lover’s paradise.

Fun fact: Did you know our nickname is, “The City of Trees”?

Our local area is filled with amazing nurseries and plant shops that make it easy to bring more greenery into our homes and gardens. The Sherri Patterson Team has explored some of the best spots in town, and we’re excited to share our favorites. Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting your plant parenting journey, these nurseries are perfect for finding inspiration, discovering new plants, and connecting with Sacramento’s vibrant gardening community!

Green Acres Nursery & Supply

Website | 8501 Jackson Rd, Sacramento, CA 95826

Green Acres Nursery & Supply has long been a cornerstone for Sacramento gardeners, offering an extensive selection of plants, gardening supplies, and expert advice. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned gardener, their knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist, ensuring you find the perfect additions to your garden. From vibrant annuals and perennials to a vast array of shrubs and trees, Green Acres caters to every gardening need.

Beyond their impressive inventory, Green Acres is known for its commitment to the community. They regularly host workshops and events, providing valuable education on topics like sustainable gardening practices and seasonal planting tips. Their dedication to fostering a love for gardening within the community makes them a beloved destination for plant enthusiasts across Sacramento.

The Plant Foundry

Website | 3500 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95817

Nestled in the heart of Oak Park, The Plant Foundry is a charming nursery that has become a favorite among locals. Their curated selection includes California native species, succulents, and a variety of edible plants, making it a go-to spot for those looking to create a sustainable and regionally appropriate garden. The nursery's layout is both inviting and inspiring, encouraging visitors to explore and discover new plant varieties. They offer a range of workshops and classes, from beginner gardening sessions to specialized topics like composting and native plant care.

The Prickly Pear

Website | 816 U St, Sacramento, CA 95818

For those with a penchant for succulents and cacti, The Prickly Pear is a must-visit destination. Located in a historic Sacramento home converted into a greenhouse and shop, it offers the largest variety of succulents and cacti in the area. The unique setting provides a delightful shopping experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a desert oasis within the city.

Owner Mona Bahraini's passion for sustainable living and community engagement shines through in every aspect of The Prickly Pear. They host "Pot n’ Sips," where guests can pot a plant while enjoying local wine—a perfect blend of creativity and relaxation. Additionally, the venue often features local vendors and events, making it a vibrant community hub for plant lovers.

The Secret Garden

Website | 8450 W Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95758

Situated in Elk Grove, The Secret Garden lives up to its name—offering a magical experience for visitors. The nursery boasts an extensive selection of succulents, pottery, fountains, and garden decor, ensuring that gardeners can find everything they need to create their own backyard paradise. The beautifully landscaped grounds provide inspiration at every turn, making it a joy to explore. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer advice, making it a welcoming destination for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Exotic Plants LTD

Website | 1525 Fulton Ave, Sacramento, CA 95825

For over 50 years, Exotic Plants LTD has been Sacramento's premier destination for indoor plants. Specializing in unique and hard-to-find species, they offer a diverse selection that can transform any interior space into a lush, green sanctuary. Their expertise in interior scaping makes them a valuable resource for those looking to incorporate plants into their home or office decor.

In addition to their impressive plant selection, Exotic Plants LTD offers services like plant rentals for events and maintenance programs to keep your indoor garden thriving. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and plant education has made them a trusted name in the Sacramento community.

Checking out these amazing nurseries and plant shops isn’t just about finding the perfect plant—it’s also a great way to connect with Sacramento’s vibrant community. At The Sherri Patterson Team, we love sharing our favorite local spots and insider tips to help you make the most of everything our city has to offer.

How to Build Wealth Through Real Estate in the Greater Sacramento Area

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:00:29 GMT

Real estate isn’t just about finding a place to live—it’s one of the most powerful tools for your family to build long-term wealth. Whether you're a homeowner looking to maximize your equity, an investor seeking opportunities, or planning your estate for future generations—smart financial planning is the key to success.

With the Sherri Patterson Team on your side, we’re here to provide expert guidance on how to grow your net worth through real estate in the Greater Sacramento Area. From leveraging home equity to strategic investing, let’s explore how you can make the most of your real estate assets.

For Homeowners: Maximize Your Current Asset

Owning a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make, but it’s also a valuable asset that can work in your favor when managed correctly. Here are four ways to maximize your home’s financial potential:

Build Equity with Smart Mortgage Payments: Making extra payments toward your mortgage principal can help you build equity faster and reduce overall interest costs. Even an additional payment once a year can significantly cut down your loan term.
Leverage Home Equity Wisely: A home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a cash-out refinance can be a powerful tool for funding renovations or paying off high-interest debt, but it’s essential to use it strategically.

Boost Your Home’s Value: Small updates like modernized kitchens, energy-efficient improvements, and well-maintained landscaping can increase your home’s resale value over time.

Prepare for Market Fluctuations: Understand the real estate market in Sacramento and stay informed about trends. Knowing when to sell, refinance, or make improvements can maximize your return on investment.

For Real Estate Investors: Establish Your Strategy

Real estate investing can be a powerful wealth-building strategy, but careful financial planning is essential. If you are thinking of investing in more real estate opportunities, here are some key strategies to keep in mind:

Establish a Solid Investment Strategy: Decide whether you want to invest in rental properties, fix-and-flip homes, or commercial real estate. Each type requires a different financial approach and risk tolerance.

Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t put all your funds into one property type or location. A mix of residential, commercial, and short-term rental properties can help balance risk and returns.

Calculate Cash Flow and Expenses: Ensure you have a clear understanding of expected rental income, maintenance costs, taxes, and potential vacancies. A solid budget can help prevent financial surprises.

Use Leverage Responsibly: Mortgages and loans can help you grow your investment portfolio, but too much debt can create financial stress. Work with a financial planner to determine the right level of leverage for your goals.

Plan for Tax Efficiency: Take advantage of tax benefits such as depreciation, 1031 exchanges, and deductions for property management costs to maximize your investment’s profitability.

Don’t Neglect Estate Planning For Long-Term Peace of Mind

Real estate is often a key part of a financial legacy, making estate planning crucial for ensuring your assets are passed down according to your wishes. Here’s how to protect your real estate investments for the future:

Create a Will or Trust: Without a proper estate plan, your real estate holdings could be subject to lengthy probate proceedings. A will or trust ensures your property is distributed as you intend.

Consider Tax Implications: Estate taxes can significantly impact the value of inherited real estate. A financial advisor can help you minimize tax liabilities through gifting strategies or trusts.

Plan for Property Management: If your estate includes rental properties, outline a plan for who will manage them after you pass. Having a designated property manager or trustee can ensure smooth operations.

Review and Update Your Plan Regularly: Life changes, such as marriage, children, or new investments, should prompt an update to your estate plan. Regular reviews help ensure your plan stays aligned with your goals.

Real estate financial planning isn’t just about today—it’s about setting yourself up for a secure and successful future.

Thinking about your next move? The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help! We can connect you with trusted financial planners in Sacramento and guide you through smart real estate decisions. Let’s work together to turn your real estate dreams into lasting wealth!

How to Spend Spring in Sacramento: Family Adventures Close to Home

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:24:26 GMT

Spring break is almost here! While some may be packing their bags for a beach getaway, you don’t have to leave town to have an amazing time. Sacramento is full of fun, family-friendly activities that will get you out of the house and into the sunshine. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a delicious meal—there’s something for everyone.

The Sherri Patterson Team knows Sacramento inside and out, and we’ve rounded up some of the best ways to enjoy spring break right here in town. Let’s get started!

Catch a Sacramento River Cats Game | Learn More

Nothing says spring quite like baseball! Head to Sutter Health Park to cheer on the Sacramento River Cats, the Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. With an electric atmosphere, family-friendly entertainment, and delicious ballpark snacks, it’s a home run of an experience. Kids will love Dinger, the team’s playful mascot, and parents will appreciate the beautiful views of the city skyline as they watch America’s favorite pastime.

Visit the Sacramento Zoo | Learn More

A trip to the Sacramento Zoo is a classic way to spend a day with the family. With over 400 animals from around the world, there’s always something new to discover. From majestic lions to playful primates, the zoo offers up-close encounters and educational experiences that make learning about wildlife fun. Don’t forget to check out the giraffe encounter, where you can feed these gentle giants right from your hand!

Tour the Riverfront on a Railbike | Learn More

For a truly unique adventure, hop on a railbike and pedal your way along the scenic Sacramento River. These two-person bikes glide along old railroad tracks, offering breathtaking views of the countryside and a relaxing, eco-friendly way to explore. Whether you're looking for a romantic outing or a fun way to tire out the kids, this one-of-a-kind activity is a must-try!

Try a New Brunch Spot | Learn More

Spring break is the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a delicious brunch, and Sacramento’s Midtown is home to some of the best spots in town. Whether you're craving fluffy pancakes, savory eggs benedict, or a refreshing mimosa, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering options. Some local favorites include The Porch , Tower Café , and Bacon & Butter . Just be sure to arrive early—these popular spots fill up fast!

Shop Local at a Farmer’s Market | Learn More

Spring is the season of fresh produce, and there’s no better place to stock up than at one of Sacramento’s vibrant farmers’ markets. Browse stalls filled with locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisan breads, and handcrafted goodies while enjoying the lively community atmosphere. The Midtown Farmers' Market and the Downtown Farmers’ Market are two of the best places to shop and support local farmers.

Pedal Along the American River Parkway | Learn More

Sacramento is home to some of the best bike trails in California, and the American River Parkway is a favorite among locals. This scenic 32-mile trail runs alongside the American River, offering stunning views, shaded pathways, and plenty of spots to stop for a picnic. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, this trail is a fantastic way for your family to soak in the beauty of spring.

Get a Head Start on Your Herb Garden | Learn More

Spring is planting season, so why not start an herb garden? Whether you have a backyard or just a sunny windowsill, growing your own basil, mint, or rosemary is a fun and rewarding way to bring fresh flavors into your kitchen. Check out local nurseries like Green Acres or The Plant Foundry for a great selection of herbs and expert advice on how to get started.

Take Pictures with the Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms are a springtime staple, and you don’t have to travel to Japan to enjoy them. Sacramento’s Capitol Park and William Land Park are two of the best spots to see these stunning pink blooms. Bring your camera, pack a picnic, and take in the beauty of nature’s springtime show—just be sure to visit before the petals start to fall!

Spring break in Sacramento is anything but boring! With so many ways to get out and explore, there’s no need to leave town to have an unforgettable week. Whether you're cheering on the River Cats, biking along the American River, or enjoying a delicious brunch, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As your local real estate expert, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help you make the most of living in Sacramento.

Have a fantastic spring break!

Living with an HOA: Pros and Cons Every Sacramento Homeowner Should Know

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:35:50 GMT

Whether you're hunting for your first home in the Greater Sacramento Area or want to upgrade to a new neighborhood, chances are your search will include properties within a homeowners association (HOA).

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we know finding the perfect home is about more than just square footage—it’s about choosing a place that aligns with your lifestyle.

That includes weighing the impact of living in a community with an HOA. We’re here to help you navigate both the benefits and the challenges of HOA living, so you can make the best choice for your family.

A Brief History of HOAs

HOAs date back to the mid-20th century, emerging as a way to manage and maintain shared resources in residential communities. Their popularity soared during the post-WWII housing boom, as suburban developments sprang up across the country. HOAs were designed to protect property values by ensuring uniformity and upkeep, creating cohesive neighborhoods that appealed to growing families and retirees alike. Today, HOAs are prevalent in communities nationwide, managing everything from landscaping to parking regulations.

Pros of Living in an HOA Community

Immaculate Neighborhoods

One of the biggest perks of living in an HOA community is the consistent maintenance of common areas and overall curb appeal. HOAs ensure that parks, pools, and landscaping are well-kept, giving your neighborhood that polished look.

Exclusive Amenities

HOA communities often come with perks like swimming pools, fitness centers, clubhouses, and even golf courses. These shared amenities are maintained using HOA fees, providing residents with convenient access to luxurious features without the hefty individual expense.

Enforced Community Standards

HOAs uphold a set of rules and guidelines to maintain order and uniformity. While this might sound restrictive, it’s great for preventing eyesores like dead lawns or homes painted neon green—things that could detract from your neighborhood’s appeal.

Conflict Resolution

Disputes between neighbors can get messy, but an HOA provides a structured process for addressing issues. From noise complaints to property boundary disagreements, the HOA acts as a mediator, helping to keep the peace.

Property Value Protection

By ensuring high standards of maintenance and appearance, HOAs play a key role in preserving or even boosting property values. When all the homes on your street look good, it’s a win-win for the entire community.

Cons of Living in an HOA Community

Monthly or Annual Fees

While those amenities and maintenance services are great, they come at a cost. HOA fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars annually, depending on the community. These fees are mandatory, so they’re something to factor into your budget.

Strict Rules and Regulations

Want to paint your house a bold new color or park your RV in the driveway? Not so fast. HOAs enforce rules that can sometimes feel limiting, covering everything from landscaping choices to holiday decorations.

Potential for Power Struggles

Not all HOA boards are created equal. Occasionally, board members may overstep their authority, leading to conflicts or decisions that don’t reflect the community’s best interests. This can be frustrating for homeowners.

Fines and Penalties

If you break an HOA rule—intentionally or accidentally—you could face fines or other penalties. This can add unexpected stress and financial strain, especially if the rules are complicated or not clearly communicated.

Lack of Individual Autonomy

Living in an HOA community means sacrificing some personal freedoms for the greater good of the neighborhood. Decisions about your property—from landscaping to exterior renovations—are subject to approval, which might not align with your vision.

How HOAs Influence Communities in the Greater Sacramento Area

Given our area’s blend of suburban and urban living, many HOA communities around Sacramento offer amenities like walking trails, community events, and well-maintained parks that cater to families and active lifestyles. Whether you're close to downtown or in a quiet Folsom suburb, HOA communities provide a sense of structure and harmony in our diverse neighborhoods.

California’s HOA laws also require clear and transparent disclosure of fees and regulations, so you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for before committing to a community.

Making the Right Choice for You

When it comes to living in an HOA community, it's all about finding the right balance for your preferences. HOAs offer structure, amenities, and beautiful surroundings, but they also come with fees and rules that might not be for everyone. Before deciding, take the time to dive into the HOA's fees, guidelines, and overall atmosphere to see if it aligns with your lifestyle.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we’re committed to helping you make an informed decision. Whether you're interested in the stability and amenities of HOA living or prefer more freedom, we’ll guide you through your options.

2025 Valentine Pizza Party

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 18:23:15 GMT

Love, laughter and lots of pizza! We had a great time celebrating with our wonderful clients at our Valentine Pizza Party, sharing laughs, good conversation and sending them home with a yummy heart shaped pizza! Events like this remind us how lucky we are to be surrounded by such a fantastic community!

The Best Time to List Your Home in the Greater Sacramento Area

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:30:00 GMT

Selling your home is a major step, and in Sacramento’s dynamic market, timing can be everything. Whether you’re in the heart of downtown, the tree-lined streets of East Sacramento, or the family-friendly neighborhoods of Elk Grove, knowing when to list can make all the difference.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we understand the local market and are here to help you navigate every detail. Let’s explore how the right timing, paired with expert guidance, can help you achieve your home-selling goals this year.

Best Season of the Year for Top Dollar & Why

When selling your home in Sacramento, the sweet spot tends to be in the spring and early summer. Why? The combination of perfect weather and the end of the school year brings more buyers into the market, creating a competitive environment that can drive up offers. If you want to make the most of your sale, we recommend listing during this peak time. However, waiting too long into fall can mean fewer buyers and possibly lower offers. Timing your sale right can make a big difference in how much you get for your home.

Best Day of the Week to Get It Listed

It’s not just about the season—the day of the week matters, too! Studies show that Thursday is the sweet spot. Listing your home on a Thursday helps it gain traction just in time for the weekend when most buyers have the time to house hunt. Homes listed on Thursday tend to sell faster and for a bit more, giving you an edge in the market.

Make Time for Necessary Repairs

Little details can make a big difference. Before putting your home on the market, take some time to handle those small repairs you’ve been putting off. Leaky faucets, chipped paint, or even a loose doorknob can catch a buyer’s eye in the wrong way. According to Coldwell Banker , roughly 7 in 10 millennials (70%) and Gen Xers (71%) say they would be willing to sacrifice home size for a move-in ready home. Investing a little time now can pay off big later.

How to Know if It’s the Best Time for YOU to Sell

At the end of the day, the best time to sell is when it feels right for you. Are you moving for a new job, ready to downsize, or looking for more space? It’s important to think about your personal goals and financial situation. That’s where The Sherri Patterson Team comes in—we’re here to help you navigate the market and figure out what makes sense for your unique situation.

Pre-Listing Checklist

Have you decided that you’re ready to get your home on the market? We’ve put together a checklist to prepare your home for a quick sale.

Ultimately, the best time to sell is when it aligns with your personal goals. Sacramento offers opportunities throughout the year, but factors like your readiness, market trends, and home improvements can make a world of difference. At The Sherri Patterson Team, we’re here to help you determine the right strategy and make your selling experience seamless.

Curious about your home’s value or ready to take the first step? Contact us today, and let’s make your Sacramento real estate journey a success!

2025 Greater Sacramento Area Relocation Guide

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 19:20:51 GMT

Get to know the Sacramento Area like a local

Each year, we help dozens of families move to the Sacramento area. Because we work with so many relocating medical professionals, we created a FREE annual guide that helps our clients find the best neighborhoods and receive information on local demographics, schools, and the region's hot spots for fun and entertainment. Download your copy today and stay in the loop on all our area has to offer!

What's Included in our NEW Guide for 2025?

✓ Top-ranked public & private schools

✓ The best neighborhoods for families & working professionals

✓ Demographic information on the Greater Sacramento Area

✓ Tips to make your next move or relocation a breeze

✓ Best hikes and dog parks

✓ Top farmers markets, breweries, wineries & more!

Why Work With The Sherri Patterson Team When

Relocating to Sacramento?

If you're a medical professional who is relocating to Sacramento for a new career opportunity or residency, we understand your needs and have a dialed in process to make your move as seamless as possible. In fact, over 50% of the clients we represent each year are medical professionals, making us uniquely qualified to serve you.

Our team specializes in providing a VIP client experience by respecting your time, listening to your needs, and negotiating the best deals in your interest. Whether you're relocating to Sacramento or ready to buy or sell in the area, we go above and beyond to make homeownership an enjoyable and rewarding process.

Contact us today to start your new home search.

We would love to schedule a time to meet via Zoom or take you on a personalized community tour of the Greater Sacramento Area.

5 Big Life Changes & How a Real Estate Agent Can Help

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:35:03 GMT

Life is full of changes, and some of those transitions come with big decisions about where and how you live. Whether you’re moving up, scaling down, or starting fresh in the Sacramento Area, having an experienced real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. Here are the five most common life transitions that often involve real estate, how your agent can help, and what you can expect along the way.

1. Growing Your Family

A growing family often means it’s time to upgrade to a larger home. Whether you’re expecting your first child, adding more to your crew, or simply need more space, a REALTOR® can help you navigate the process of finding a home that fits your expanding needs.

How a REALTOR® Can Help:

Identify homes with family-friendly features, like good schools , extra bedrooms, or big backyards.
Guide you through selling your current home while simultaneously buying your next one.

What to Expect: The process might involve balancing multiple timelines and contingencies, but with the right agent, it can be a smooth transition that leaves you ready to settle in before the arrival of your new bundle of joy.

2. Relocating for Work

New job opportunities often mean relocating to a new city or even a new state. This transition can feel overwhelming when paired with starting a new role and uprooting your life.

How a REALTOR® Can Help:

Provide market expertise and neighborhood insights in your new area.
Coordinate virtual tours and facilitate long-distance negotiations.

What to Expect: Relocation may require quick decision-making, so having a trusted REALTOR® to streamline the process and advocate for your needs is invaluable.

3. Downsizing

When your nest starts to feel too big, downsizing is a practical way to simplify life. Whether it’s an empty nest, retirement, or just a desire for less maintenance, this transition comes with its own unique challenges.

How a REALTOR® Can Help:

Evaluate your current home’s value and suggest updates to maximize its sale price.
Help you find a smaller home or condo that fits your changing lifestyle.

What to Expect: Sorting through years of belongings can be emotional. A REALTOR® can provide guidance and referrals for downsizing services, making the process less daunting.

4. Divorce or Separation

Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions, and deciding what to do with shared real estate adds complexity. A neutral and professional REALTOR® can be a critical resource.

How a REALTOR® Can Help:

Provide objective advice and market data to help you make informed decisions.
Manage the sale of the property with discretion and professionalism.

What to Expect: A REALTOR® can serve as a buffer to reduce stress and ensure that the home sale process remains as smooth and equitable as possible.

5. Becoming a First-Time Homebuyer

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone but can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. From understanding the market to navigating the paperwork, there’s a lot to learn.

How a REALTOR® Can Help:

Educate you on the home-buying process, from pre-approval to closing day.
Negotiate on your behalf and help you avoid common pitfalls.

What to Expect: As a first-time buyer, you’ll have a lot of questions—and that’s okay! Your REALTOR® will walk you through each step, ensuring you feel confident and informed.

Life transitions can be emotional and complex, but the right agent will guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re moving for work, upgrading for your growing family, or simplifying your life by downsizing, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help. Reach out today to see how we can make your next real estate journey a smooth and successful one!

New Year, New Home: The Most Popular Home Improvements for 2025

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:10:05 GMT

As we step into 2025, homeowners are setting their sights on refreshing their spaces with upgrades that reflect both style and functionality. Whether you’re planning to sell, have recently purchased a new home, or want to enhance your current living space, this year’s top home improvement trends offer something for everyone. From boosting value to creating a space that truly feels like home, these seven upgrades are poised to take center stage.

BUT... Why Are Homeowners Upgrading Their Homes in 2025 anyway?

Renovations aren’t just about sprucing up your home—they’re a smart investment. Upgrading a kitchen, refreshing a bathroom, or adding energy-efficient features can significantly boost your home’s value. These updates not only create a space you’ll love but also make your home stand out in the market if you decide to sell. It’s a win-win: building equity while enjoying the benefits now.

But renovations go beyond dollars and cents—they’re about enhancing your lifestyle. As life evolves, your home should, too. Whether it’s creating the ultimate home office, designing an outdoor oasis for summer get-togethers, or adding that extra bathroom to ease the morning chaos, renovations are a chance to make your space more functional, comfortable, and perfectly suited to your needs.

Without further ado, here are 2025’s hottest home improvement trends!

SUSTAINABLE UPGRADES

Going green isn’t just a trend—it’s the future. Solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and smart thermostats are becoming must-haves for eco-conscious homeowners. With eco-friendly upgrades, homeowners are focusing on ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Other popular choices include sustainable materials like bamboo flooring, recycled countertops, and low-flow water fixtures. These upgrades not only help the planet but also enhance the home’s value and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Aging-in-Place Features

Planning for the future is smart, and aging-in-place features are making their way into more homes. These updates are practical yet stylish—think walk-in showers with modern tile, wider doorways, and even adjustable-height countertops. They’re perfect for multigenerational households or anyone wanting to create a home they can stay in for years to come.

Multi-Functional Spaces

With more people working and learning from home, the demand for multi-functional spaces continues to grow. Think home offices that double as guest rooms, or basements that transition seamlessly from a playroom during the day to an entertainment hub at night. Built-in storage, modular furniture, and clever design solutions are key to making these spaces both stylish and practical.

Enhanced Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are getting a big upgrade as Northern California homeowners prioritize relaxation and entertaining at home. Popular improvements include adding outdoor kitchens, fire pits, pergolas, and comfortable seating areas. Landscaping is also trending, with native plants and pollinator gardens leading the way for sustainable, low-maintenance yards.

Upgraded Kitchens and Bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms remain at the heart of home improvements, with a focus on modernizing these spaces for functionality and style. In 2025, homeowners are opting for:

Sleek, handleless cabinetry for a minimalist look.
Smart appliances that simplify daily tasks.
Spa-inspired bathrooms with walk-in showers, freestanding tubs, and ambient lighting.

These upgrades are not only luxurious but also major value-boosters when it’s time to sell.

Smart Home Technology

The future is here, and it’s smart. From voice-activated lighting and security systems to energy-monitoring thermostats, homeowners are incorporating technology that makes their lives easier and their homes more efficient. Smart home upgrades are a significant draw for tech-savvy buyers and can be a great selling point down the road.

This year is all about creating spaces that make life better—whether that’s by adding functionality, boosting your home’s value, or just making it more “you.” With so many exciting trends to choose from, now’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and start planning your next home project. After all, your dream home isn’t going to build itself.

2025 Real Estate Market Update: Brian Buffini's Bold Predictions Recap

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 09:10:09 GMT

As we close out 2024 and look ahead to 2025, Brian Buffini’s recent Bold Predictions offer a roadmap for what’s next in the real estate market. The Sherri Patterson Team has taken a closer look at these insights to understand how they will shape the local market in Sacramento.

2024 Recap: A Market Ready to Unfreeze

The 2024 real estate market was far from ordinary. High mortgage rates, soaring home prices, and limited inventory brought the market to a near standstill for much of the year. However, as more homes came onto the market later in the year, conditions started to shift. Older, wealthier demographics dominated transactions, with all-cash offers becoming more prevalent and the average age of buyers and sellers climbing.

First-time buyers faced significant hurdles in 2024. Many younger buyers paused their plans, feeling that the cost of entering the market was simply too high. This pent-up demand will likely play a major role in shaping 2025, a year for opportunity and growth.

Mortgage Rates: Anticipated Adjustments

Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with the National Association of REALTORS®, suggests that while consumers have acclimated to mortgage rates around 7%, a potential decline to the low 6% range in 2025 could invigorate buyer interest.

Implications for Sacramento:

Buyer Activity: A reduction in mortgage rates may attract more buyers, especially those who were previously hesitant due to higher borrowing costs.
Market Dynamics: Increased buyer participation could lead to heightened competition for available properties.

Younger Buyers Are Ready to Act

2025 will likely see younger buyers re-entering the market after delaying their plans in 2024. In Sacramento, this could translate into increased activity in starter homes and mid-tier properties. The city’s family-friendly neighborhoods and vibrant community make it an ideal place for millennials and Gen Z buyers to take the leap into homeownership.

Inventory Levels: Prospects of Growth

The forecast indicates a potential rise in home construction, which could alleviate inventory shortages experienced in recent years. In addition, an anticipated rise in inventory is expected to bring much-needed balance to the market, creating more opportunities for both buyers and sellers. In Sacramento, this could mean a shift from the intense seller’s market of recent years to a more neutral environment. For local buyers who’ve struggled with fierce competition, this is a welcome development.

Implications for Sacramento:

Buyer Opportunities: An increase in housing inventory offers buyers a broader selection, potentially easing the competitive pressures of the market.
Seller Considerations: Sellers might need to adopt more strategic pricing and marketing approaches to distinguish their properties in a more saturated market.

The Gap Between “Haves” and “Have-Nots” Widens

One concerning prediction is the growing divide between those who can afford to buy and those who can’t. Sacramento’s market is not immune to this trend, with competition for high-value properties likely to remain strong. However, the anticipated increase in inventory may create more opportunities for buyers who’ve been priced out in recent years.

A Positive Outlook: Growth Without Recession

The overall outlook for 2025 is optimistic, with business confidence high and job growth expected to continue. Buffini predicts a 10% increase in home sales nationwide, fueled by improved inventory and steady demand. Sacramento’s growing population and thriving economy position it to benefit from these trends.

Economic and Policy Environment: Stability Ahead

Post-2024 election, a more stable economic and policy environment is anticipated, which could positively influence the real estate sector.

Implications for Sacramento:

Market Confidence: Economic stability tends to bolster consumer confidence, encouraging real estate transactions.
Investment Potential: A steady policy landscape may attract real estate investors seeking reliable returns in the Sacramento area.

The 2025 real estate market in Sacramento is poised for notable developments, including potential decreases in mortgage rates, increased inventory, and a stable economic environment. By staying informed and adapting to these changes, both buyers and sellers can make strategic decisions to achieve their real estate objectives. The Sherri Patterson Team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and support to navigate the opportunities that 2025 presents.

For more personalized local insights, connect with The Sherri Patterson Team as we navigate the 2025 together.

Holiday Traditions from The Sherri Patterson Team

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:30:00 GMT

The holiday season is all about traditions, and here at The Sherri Patterson Team, we love embracing every moment of the magic. From gathering for annual tree lightings to adventurous trips to Lake Tahoe, our team cherishes creating memories with loved ones.

Whether it’s the sweet joy of baking holiday cookies, the creativity of gingerbread house making, or the heartfelt act of feeding the homeless, these traditions remind us of what truly matters: community, kindness, and connection. As you celebrate this season with your loved ones, we hope you create many holiday memories.

SHERRI'S FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Cut down a fresh Christmas tree in Apple Hill the weekend following Thanksgiving.
Playing games and watching one of my favorite football teams play, Dallas…. Don’t be a hater out there… lol! I love the Niners too!
Attend a candlelight vigil on Christmas Eve
Head to Lake Tahoe for some rest & relaxation during Christmas break

Advent Calendars
Secret Santa

"Advent calendars are still a tradition at our house, even though the kids are older now. Another tradition we practice at Christmas, more out of necessity than anything else, is Secret Santa. Due to the size of my brood, this has been effective and fun for the past 20+ years." - Fran Cammarota

mary's favorite holiday traditions

We love our family gingerbread house competition
Go to a local performance of The Nutcracker
Decorate the tree together then drive around to look at lights

Signature cocktail dinner
Bake seasonal cookies to give to our friends and neighbors

"I grew up without holidays, so growing up, my family tradition was to exchange gifts on my parent’s anniversary which falls on December 14th. Now that I’m an adult, we typically have a signature cocktail at dinner, host dinner for our family the Saturday before or after the holiday, and I make an overwhelming amount of various seasonal cookies to gift out to our friends and neighbors to say thank you for being an important part of our lives."

- Alyssa Teyler

FRIENDSgiving dinner in our matching Christmas jammies that the Elf on the Shelf brings the night before Thanksgiving. They each have an elf to take with them when they move out to share with their kids.
Each of our kids get their own tree in their rooms and the Elf brings them a new ornament on Dec. 1st. The kids get to take their ornaments once they move out so they will have ornaments to decorate their own tree.
Christmas Eve Cioppino and cookie making
We adopt a local CASA family for Christmas, and we volunteer to feed the homeless in El Dorado County.

What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? Tag us on social (@sherripattersonteam) so we can celebrate along with you.

What Happened in the 2024 Real Estate Market in Sacramento?

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 06:27:18 GMT

The Sacramento real estate market in 2024 was buzzing with activity, shaped by rollercoaster interest rates, more housing supply and modest growth in sales and home prices. While the Golden State's sky-high costs kept many from making a move, Sacramento shone as a sweet spot—a haven for buyers craving more room to breathe (and space to park) without the jaw-dropping price tags of San Francisco or Los Angeles.

Below are the real estate highlights from this year.

Modest Price Growth

Towards the end of the year, Sacramento’s housing market continued its steady growth, with median home prices increasing by 3% year-over-year, on average. This is a softer path than the frenetic pace of price increases during the pandemic boom. Mortgage rates, at about 7%, have cooled buyer demand, meaning fewer bidding wars and longer days on the market, though we saw some slight dips in the sixes during the summer of 2024.

Throughout the year demand consistently outpaced supply, making Sacramento a competitive market for buyers. Sellers, meanwhile, are adjusting expectations as price growth slows. Overall, the market is cooling but remains healthy, maintaining its reputation as one of California’s more balanced real estate landscapes.

More housing supply

In 2024, Sacramento's real estate inventory remained a hot topic, reflecting the region's balancing act between supply and demand. Limited new construction and hesitant sellers, many holding onto low-interest-rate mortgages, contributed to a tight housing supply.

This scarcity created an environment where competition stayed fierce, especially for well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods. While the market saw an increase in listings, especially in the fall, it hasn't been enough to fully satisfy the growing pool of buyers attracted to Sacramento’s affordability and lifestyle perks.

Date the rate

With rates hovering at higher levels compared to the historic lows of previous years, many potential buyers found themselves reassessing their budgets or pausing their homeownership plans. For sellers, the "golden handcuffs" of low-rate mortgages made them reluctant to list. In response to these challenges, the phrase "date the rate, marry the house" became a popular phrase, encouraging buyers to focus on securing their dream home now and refinance later when rates eventually drop. Overall rates did not drop as low in 2024 as most experts predicted.

Sacramento’s Affordability Advantage

Although there has been an increase in pricing, Sacramento is one of the most affordable places to live in California.

According to Houzeo , “Sacramento is one of the best places to live in California, with a monthly cost of food and utilities 7% lower than the state average. It is also a hub for technology businesses and economic growth. The city is home to major companies such as Amazon, Intel, and Aerojet.”

The same gentling of the market could be seen across California. Places like the Bay Area and Southern California mostly saw flat or even falling prices in their areas, simply because the baseline costs were so high. Sacramento was notable for being one of the more balanced markets, in that buyers and sellers can both get a decent deal.

In comparison, Sacramento strikes a better balance between expense and quality of life. This affordability has fueled migration trends that benefit the region, with remote workers, retirees, and families moving from more expensive markets. The influx of new people not only reshapes local communities but also contributes to a consistent need for homes.

Meanwhile, migration patterns continued to favor Sacramento, as remote workers and retirees relocated from more expensive locales. As 2024 comes to a close, the Sacramento real estate market remains resilient and a potential growth sector as the economy evolves.

Sacramento’s Position in the Broader California Marke t

Sacramento's appeal isn’t just about affordability—it’s also about lifestyle. The city’s proximity to natural attractions such as Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains makes it a prime location for those seeking a balance between urban convenience and outdoor recreation. Additionally, the city’s investments in infrastructure, such as the expansion of its light rail system and ongoing downtown revitalization projects, add to its livability.

Thinking about relocating or purchasing an investment property in the Sacramento area? Connect with The Sherri Patterson Team for local resources, tours, and industry expertise.

2024 Gratitude Gathering

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 22:24:16 GMT

What a joy it was to celebrate our incredible clients at this special annual event! Your continued support means everything to us, and this gathering was our way of showing just how much we appreciate YOU. From heartfelt conversations and shared laughs to delicious Cider Spritzers and a gorgeous grazing board to gather around together, it was an evening to remember.

Connecting with our clients is the highlight of what we do. To those who joined us, thank you for making it so memorable! And to those who couldn’t attend—you were missed, and we can’t wait to see you at the next one.

A big thank you to our fantastic co-host and trusted lender, Cindi Taylor of Big Valley Mortgage, for helping make this event such a success. We’re so grateful for each of you!

5 Best Spots for Holiday Pies in the Sacramento Area

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 17:00:01 GMT

When the holiday season rolls around, nothing completes a festive feast like a delicious, handmade pie. Sacramento is home to some of the best bakeries that craft pies using fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re after a classic apple pie or something more unique, these bakeries have you covered.

IKEDA'S

Ikeda's is a beloved spot in Northern California, famous for its fresh, farm-to-table pies. With locations in both Davis and Auburn, Ikeda’s pies, especially their apple and berry varieties, are made with local fruits that offer natural sweetness and rich flavors. We've used Ikeda's to host reverse popbys during the holidays in the past where we gave pies to our clients, because they are THAT good! Not only is Ikeda's a bakery, it's also a three generation, family-run orchard, bakery, grocery store, and restaurant! They specialize in "Farm to Fork" fruit and savory pies. If you're looking for a holiday pie that feels homemade, this is the place to go.

Instagram: @ ikedasbakery

Website: www.ikedas.com

Locations: Davis & Auburn, CA

Midtown Bakery

Midtown Bakery brings a creative touch to traditional pies, with offerings that change seasonally. Their cozy location in Sacramento is a go-to spot for holiday desserts, including pies made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re after a classic pumpkin pie or something more adventurous, Midtown Bakery has you covered.

Instagram: @ midtownbakery

Website: https://midtown-bakery.com

Location: Sacramento, CA

Faria Bakery

Known for its commitment to organic and locally sourced ingredients, Faria Bakery's pies are as delicious as they are beautiful, making them perfect for holiday celebrations. Popular flavors like apple and pear pies are always a hit, blending traditional tastes with a modern twist.

Instagram: @ fariabakery

Website: www.fariabakery.com

Location: Oak Park Sacramento & Folsom, CA

Estelle Bakery & Pâtisserie

With a touch of European elegance, Estelle Bakery & Pâtisserie brings French-inspired baked pies to the Sacramento pie scene. Estelle's pies are crafted with precision, making them both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. If you're looking to impress your guests with something a bit more upscale, Estelle’s pies will do just that.

Instagram: @ estellebakery

Website: www.estellebakery.com

Location: Arden Arcade & DOCO Sacramento, CA

Apple Hill Orchards

Known for its apple orchards and scenic views Apple Hill is an area favorite, but during the holidays, it becomes a haven for pie lovers. Orchards across the region, including High Hill Ranch and Boa Vista, show off their baking skills during the holidays and offer freshly baked apple, berry, and pumpkin pies that capture the essence of the season. A visit to Apple Hill is a must for anyone looking to indulge in holiday treats while enjoying the crisp autumn air.

Instagram: @ applehillofficial

Website: https://applehill.com/grower-cat/bake-shops

Location: Placerville, CA

With these bakeries, you’re sure to find the perfect pie to share with family and friends during the holidays. Be sure to place your orders early, as their delicious creations are in high demand!

Home Loans for Veterans: California's Best Loan Programs for Veterans

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 18:00:00 GMT

For veterans in California, purchasing a home comes with unique advantages, thanks to specialized loan programs that offer competitive terms. Two of the most popular options are VA loans and the California-specific CalVet loan program. Both offer distinct benefits to veterans, making homeownership more accessible and affordable. Here's an in-depth look at these loan programs and what they mean for veterans in California.

VA Loans: A Strong Option for Veterans Nationwide

The VA loan is a benefit available to veterans across the country, but it's especially helpful in states like California, where home prices tend to be higher than the national average. VA loans come with key benefits that make them stand out compared to traditional loan options:

1. No Down Payment Required
One of the biggest advantages of a VA loan is the ability to purchase a home without a down payment. This is particularly beneficial in California, where home prices can be steep. As long as the property's appraisal aligns with the purchase price, veterans can often qualify for 100% financing.

2. Lower Interest Rates
VA loans typically feature lower interest rates than conventional loans, helping veterans save money over the life of the loan. These lower rates can make homeownership more affordable and help veterans qualify for larger loan amounts.

3. No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Conventional loans often require private mortgage insurance (PMI) when the down payment is less than 20%. However, VA loans don’t require PMI, which can result in substantial savings for veterans.

4. VA Loan Funding Fee
While VA loans don’t require a down payment, there is usually a funding fee associated with them. This fee helps keep the VA loan program running, but some veterans, such as those with service-related disabilities, may be exempt from this fee.

CalVet Loans: A California-Specific Benefit

For veterans residing in California, there is another option—the CalVet loan program. This program offers some additional benefits designed specifically to meet the needs of California veterans.

1. State-Specific Benefits
The CalVet loan program is tailored to California residents and often includes additional benefits like assistance with down payments and closing costs, depending on eligibility. These features make the CalVet loan program a good choice for veterans who may need extra help covering upfront costs.

2. Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a CalVet loan, veterans must meet California residency requirements. The program is open to active duty service members, veterans, and certain members of the National Guard and Reserves. Veterans interested in a CalVet loan can contact their local County Veterans Service Office to get more information on eligibility and the application process.

Other VA Loan Options for California Veterans

Beyond the standard VA loan, veterans in California can also take advantage of refinancing options that could help them save even more money or access the equity in their home.

1. VA Streamline Refinance Loan (IRRRL)
The VA Streamline Refinance Loan, also known as the Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), is a great option for veterans who already have a VA loan and want to refinance at a lower interest rate. This can lower monthly payments and reduce the overall cost of the loan.

2. VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan
Veterans looking to tap into their home’s equity can consider a VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan. This option allows veterans to refinance their mortgage and receive a cash payout, which can be used for things like home improvements, debt consolidation, or other financial needs.

Making the Right Choice for You

Whether you’re considering a VA loan or the CalVet loan program, both offer fantastic opportunities for veterans in California to achieve homeownership with favorable terms. VA loans provide national benefits like no down payment and no PMI, while the CalVet program offers additional state-specific perks.

If you’re a veteran in California and interested in learning more, The Sherri Patterson Team can connect you with top mortgage brokers in the area who specialize in VA loans. Contact us today to discuss which loan option best suits your needs. Homeownership may be closer than you think, thanks to the benefits you’ve earned through your service.

11th Annual SPT Harvest Fest

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 00:09:31 GMT

Harvest Fest 2024 was definitely one for the books! We had almost 350 clients show up to brave the 100+ temps and celebrate fall in style! In addition to our talented vendors of caricature artists, wandering magician, face painters and professional photographers to capture all of the special moments, we added Amazing Animal World and their “animals from around the world”. Special thanks to our amazing vendors that were so generous with all of the donations to our raffle prizes. A special shout-out and thank you to our event Co-Sponsor, Kelly Cort and her incredible team from Home Cort Advantage of Guild Mortgage

Don't Let the Fall Sacramento Market Scare You From Buying or Selling

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 18:35:09 GMT

As we head deeper into the fall season and inch closer to the 2024 presidential election, many people feel apprehensive about jumping into the Sacramento real estate market. Whether you’re buying or selling, the experience can sometimes feel spooky and overwhelming this time of year.

But don’t let that fear hold you back!

With the right guidance from the right team (aka The Sherri Patterson Team), you can confidently navigate the market and uncover the opportunities that await. Here’s why you shouldn’t be afraid and how to make the most of your fall real estate journey.

Understanding Market Cycles

First, it's important to recognize that the real estate market operates in cycles. Prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, and economic conditions, but these ups and downs are a normal part of the process. Historically, real estate has proven to be a reliable long-term investment. Just as in a classic ghost story, there may be unexpected twists and turns, but the overall trend is often positive.

Sellers: Don't Fear the Market

If you’re considering selling, it’s normal to feel uneasy about the market. However, there are many advantages to seize right now:

High Demand: Despite market changes, demand for homes remains strong. If your home is well-maintained, you can attract eager buyers ready to make a purchase.
New Adventures Await: Selling your home can provide the funds needed for your next chapter, whether you’re looking to upgrade, downsize , or relocate. Embrace the possibilities that lie ahead!
Expert Guidance: Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you navigate the market’s complexities, ensuring you make informed decisions along the way.
Market Trends: Staying informed about local market trends can help you time your sale effectively, allowing you to maximize your return and avoid common pitfalls. Below shows a graph of the numbers of homes for sale this year in the Sacramento area, with August being the month with the most homes listed for sale.

Buyers: Your Treat Awaits

If you’re a buyer, the market might seem daunting, but there are plenty of treats hidden within:

Less Competition: Many buyers are hesitant to jump in right now, which means you may face less competition. This can lead to better deals without the stress of bidding wars.
Building Equity: Homeownership allows you to build equity over time, turning your investment into a valuable asset rather than paying rent to someone else.
Tax Advantages: Owning a home comes with tax advantages that can lighten your financial load, making homeownership even more appealing.
Long-Term Investment: While market fluctuations can be unsettling, real estate typically appreciates over time, making it a wise long-term investment.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey

As you prepare to buy or sell in the Greater Sacramento Area, remember that fear often stems from uncertainty. By arming yourself with knowledge and expert support, you can start your next real estate journey with confidence. With the right approach and real estate team on your side, you can turn what feels spooky into a rewarding adventure for you and your family. Happy Halloween, and happy house hunting!

Fire Safety Starts at Home: A Sacramento Guide for Fire Prevention Week

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:00:04 GMT

Fire Prevention Week kicks off this year from October 6-12 with the theme "Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You."

It's the perfect time for Sacramento residents to review essential fire safety practices. Whether you're looking to protect your home from wildfires or reduce fire risks indoors, having a solid prevention plan in place can make all the difference.

From tips on creating defensible space around your property to developing an effective family evacuation plan, local resources and experts can help. In this article, we’ll cover key fire safety measures for both inside and outside the home, what to do if a fire occurs, and where you can find vital resources right here in the Sacramento area.

5 Fire Safety Tips for Sacramento Residents

Fire safety is a critical concern for Sacramento residents, especially with the risk of wildfires. Here are some essential tips for protecting your home:

Create Defensible Space: Clear dry vegetation and debris at least 30 feet around your home to reduce fire risk.
Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure smoke detectors are installed in every bedroom and common area, and test them monthly.
Prepare a Fire Escape Plan: Have an evacuation plan that includes at least two exit routes and a meeting point for your family.
Harden Your Home with Fire-Resistant Materials: Use non-combustible building materials for roofing and siding, especially in high-risk areas.
Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, and important documents ready.

CAL FIRE has a great website full of resources to help you learn about the tips above.

Below, you'll find local events that are participating in Fire Safety week this year, as well as local resources to help prevent fires in the community.

Sacramento Children's Museum Fire Safety Night

sackids.org | October 7th from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., Rancho Cordova

Your kiddos will love the Night at the Museum at the Sacramento Children's Museum. They'll be able to play fun games, win prizes, meet Flare the Fire Dog, learn about home escape planning and interact with fire safety stations. It’s a fun, free night of education for the whole family! Visit their website for more details.

Metro Fire Sacramento Risk Reduction

metrofire.ca.gov

The Community Risk Reduction Division (formerly Fire Prevention Bureau) is responsible for protecting the public through coordinated efforts in fire prevention, code enforcement, fire protection engineering, fire and life safety education and fire investigation.

National Fire Protection Association

www.nfpa.org

While national, NFPA’s resources are very relevant during Fire Prevention Week, offering guidelines and a webinar on how to protect your home from fires and what to do in case of an emergency.

Sacramento Ready

sacramentoready.saccounty.gov

The Sacramento Ready website provides comprehensive guidance on preparing for wildfires, including creating defensible space, developing an evacuation plan, and assembling an emergency supply kit. It also covers strategies to protect homes from wildfire damage, such as fire-resistant landscaping and home hardening techniques. The site offers essential safety information and resources to ensure families are ready before, during, and after a wildfire emergency.

Top Fall Orchards in the Sacramento Area

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 14:30:03 GMT

Fall is a magical time in Northern California, especially near Sacramento, where the crisp air and vibrant foliage signal the start of a season filled with harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and, of course, apple picking.

If you're looking for the perfect family-friendly outing this autumn, visiting a local orchard should be at the top of your list. Here are some of the best orchards to visit near Sacramento, with a special focus on the treasures of Apple Hill.

Photo Source: Apple Hill Growers Association

1. High Hill Ranch, Apple Hill

https://www.highhillranch.com | IG: @highhillranch_applehill

High Hill Ranch is one of the crown jewels of Apple Hill and a must-visit for families looking to experience the best of fall. This orchard has everything you could want in a day trip: apple picking, fresh cider, hayrides, and a picturesque pond perfect for picnics.

Why We Love High Hill Ranch:

Variety of Activities: Beyond apple picking, families can enjoy fishing at the pond, pony rides for the little ones, and a craft fair featuring local artisans.
Delicious Treats: Don’t miss their famous caramel apples and freshly baked apple pies. There’s something special about enjoying these treats right at the source.
Scenic Views: The beautiful vistas of rolling hills and apple orchards make for fantastic family photos and lasting memories.

2. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS, APPLE HILL

https://boavista.com | IG: @boavistaorchards

Open year-round, Boa Vista Orchards offers a little something for everyone, especially during the fall. This family-operated orchard is known for its expansive selection of fresh produce and seasonal goodies.

Why We Love Boa Vista:

Apple and Pumpkin Picking: Kids will love choosing their own apples and picking the perfect pumpkin for Halloween.
Bakery and BBQ: Enjoy a delicious meal at their outdoor BBQ, followed by a visit to the bakery for a taste of their famous apple donuts and turnovers.
Farm Market: Take home a piece of the orchard with jams, jellies, and fresh-pressed cider, perfect for enjoying long after your visit.

3. APPLE RIDGE FARMS, APPLE HILL

https://appleridgefarms.com | IG: @appleridgefarms

Apple Ridge Farms (which reopened in late August) is another gem in the heart of Apple Hill, offering a more rustic and intimate experience. This farm is known for its charming country atmosphere and its commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Why We Love Apple Ridge Farms:

Petting Zoo: The kids will love getting up close and personal with farm animals, making it an educational and fun experience.
Baked Goods: Their farm stand is stocked with homemade pies, breads, and jams, all made from their own produce.
Quiet Retreat: If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience away from the larger crowds, Apple Ridge Farms offers a peaceful retreat where you can truly connect with nature.

4. DELFINO FARMS, APPLE HILL

https://delfinofarms.com | IG: @delfinofarms

Formerly known as Kids Inc., Delfino Farms is a family favorite, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s the perfect spot for families who want to enjoy the beauty of fall with a side of excitement.

Why We Love Delfino Farms:

Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails that wind through the orchards and vineyards, perfect for a leisurely walk or an energetic romp with the kids.
Sweet Delights: Don’t miss their iconic apple cider milkshakes—a unique treat that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Wine Tasting for Parents: While the kids enjoy the outdoor activities, parents can relax with a wine tasting experience featuring locally produced wines.

5. FOG WILLOW FARMS, WILTON CA

http://www.fogwillowfarms.com

Last on our list, but certainly not least is Fog Willow Farms, which is Just a short drive from Sacramento. It offers a quintessential fall experience that’s perfect for families. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, this farm is a favorite spot for annual harvest festivals and events, including our own client appreciation event each year.

Why We Fog Willow Farms:

Harvest Festival Fun: During the fall, Fog Willow Farms transforms into a lively harvest festival with activities like hayrides, pumpkin patches, and even a petting zoo. It’s the perfect place for kids to run around and enjoy the season.
Interactive Farm Experience: The farm offers hands-on experiences where kids can learn about farm animals, interact with them, and even see a real working farm in action.
Perfect for Events: Our clients love Fog Willow Farms for its picturesque setting and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the ideal location for gatherings.
Scenic Surroundings: The beautiful farm setting, with its wide-open spaces and charming rustic details, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable day out. It’s also a great backdrop for those memorable family photos.

++++ 3 Easy Fall Recipes w/ Apples and Pumpkin

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy cozy, comforting treats made from the season’s best produce—apples and pumpkins. Here are three simple and delicious recipes that you and your family can enjoy this autumn.

1. Homemade Apple Donuts

Nothing says fall like the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked apple donuts. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weekend treat.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup apple cider
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup finely chopped apples (peeled and cored)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix together the apple cider, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, and fold in the chopped apples until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the donuts cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Enjoy them warm, or dip them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra treat.

2. Spiced Apple Cider

Warm spiced apple cider is the quintessential fall beverage, perfect for sipping on a cool autumn evening. This easy recipe fills your home with the comforting scent of spices and apples.

Ingredients:

8 cups apple cider
3 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
4 whole allspice berries
1 orange, sliced
1 apple, sliced
1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

Instructions:

In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange slices, and apple slices.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
If you like your cider a bit sweeter, stir in the maple syrup.
Strain the cider to remove the spices and fruit slices before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick or an orange slice if desired.

3. Pumpkin Chocolate Fudge

This pumpkin chocolate fudge is a rich, decadent treat that combines the creamy texture of fudge with the subtle spiciness of pumpkin. It’s perfect for a sweet fall indulgence.

Ingredients:

1 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional, for a marbled effect)

Instructions:

Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and thick.
For a marbled effect, set aside 1/4 of the mixture and mix the cocoa powder into it. Spoon dollops of the chocolate mixture over the pumpkin fudge and swirl with a knife.
Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

These easy fall recipes are perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends. Whether you’re cozying up with a warm mug of spiced apple cider or indulging in a piece of pumpkin chocolate fudge, these treats are sure to bring a little extra joy to your autumn days.

Are You Ready for Retirement? Start Downsizing with These 5 Steps

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 15:00:04 GMT

Thinking about retirement? It might be time to rethink your space.

Downsizing isn't just about moving into a smaller home; it's about upgrading your lifestyle. Imagine trading in unused rooms and endless upkeep for freedom, flexibility, and a simpler life. If you're ready to start this next chapter, let's explore the benefits of downsizing and how to make it happen smoothly.

Benefits of Downsizing Before Retirement

Now that the kids are grown and you no longer need as much space, downsizing can be a smart move to boost your retirement fund and create a more comfortable living situation—often referred to as rightsizing for seniors. By rightsizing, you eliminate unnecessary space and free up both your budget and time, allowing you to enjoy your dream retirement.

Downsizing Your Home = Downsizing the Bills That Come With It. By moving into a smaller home, you can save on mortgage payments, property taxes, and homeowners insurance. Utility bills, like heating and cooling, are often lower in a smaller space, and maintenance costs decrease with less square footage and fewer rooms to upkeep. Realtor.com puts it this way , "A smaller home typically means lower bills and less upkeep. Then there’s the potential windfall that comes from selling your larger home and buying something smaller." These savings can free up funds to enhance your retirement lifestyle, whether through travel, hobbies, or simply enjoying a more relaxed financial cushion.
You Get The "Windfall" of Home Equity. If you’ve been in your home for a while, you’ve likely built up substantial equity. This equity can be a valuable asset to help you purchase a home that better suits your current needs. Your home equity can be a significant source of wealth for retirees, often representing a large portion of their net worth. When you’re ready to tap into that equity for your next move, your real estate agent will guide you through every step—from pricing your current home accurately to finding a new home that fits your evolving needs and budget in today’s market.
You Can Future-Proof Your Downsized Home to Suit Your Needs. Downsizing allows you to choose a home that better suits your current and future needs, such as single-story living, a more convenient location, or proximity to family and healthcare.
Downsizing Can Offer a More Flexible Lifestyle. A smaller, more manageable home can offer greater freedom to travel, pursue hobbies, or simply relax without the burden of maintaining a larger property.
Less Space Means Less Upkeep. With less space to manage, you’ll spend less time and effort on cleaning, repairs, and upkeep, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement .

Now, that we've covered a few benefits of downsizing for retirement, here are steps to take to get you started.

5 Steps to Start Downsizing Your Sacramento Home

Assess Your Needs and Priorities
The first step in downsizing is to evaluate your current and future needs. Consider how much space you truly require and what features are most important to you in a new home. Think about factors like accessibility, proximity to family and friends, and the type of community you want to live in. This self-assessment will help you clarify your goals and ensure that your downsizing move aligns with your retirement plans.
Declutter and Organize
Downsizing involves letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose in your life. Start by decluttering your current home, focusing on items you no longer use or need. This process can be emotional, but it's essential to be practical. Consider donating, selling, or giving away items that are in good condition but no longer fit your lifestyle. By decluttering early, you’ll make the moving process smoother and ensure that only the essentials come with you to your new home.
Understand Your Financial Situation
Before making any moves, it’s crucial to understand your financial picture. Determine the value of your current home and how much equity you have built up. Research the real estate market in the areas you’re considering for your new home to get an idea of what you can afford. It’s also wise to consult with a financial advisor to ensure that your downsizing plan supports your overall retirement strategy. Knowing your budget will help you make informed decisions about your next home.
Work with a Real Estate Professional
Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent like The Sherri Patterson Team can make the downsizing process much easier. A good agent will help you set the right price for your current home, navigate the selling process, and find a new home that fits your needs and budget. They can also provide valuable insights into the local market and guide you through each step of the transaction. Having an expert on your side ensures that you make the most of your downsizing experience.
Plan Your Move Thoughtfully
Once you’ve sold your home and purchased a new one, it’s time to plan your move. Start by creating a timeline and a checklist to keep the process organized. Consider hiring professional movers, especially if you’re relocating a significant distance or have large, heavy items. It’s also a good idea to plan the layout of your new home in advance, so you know exactly where your furniture and belongings will go. A well-planned move reduces stress and helps you settle into your new space smoothly.

If You Want to Retire in THE NEXT 3 YEARS, Here's What You Need to Prep Now

If you're planning to retire within the next few years, you’ll have several factors to consider, such as whether your assets are properly allocated as you begin withdrawing instead of making deposits. It’s also time to double-check that you've optimized your retirement accounts for tax advantages, as well as stress-testing your portfolio.

Evaluate Your Current Financial Situation

Start by getting a clear picture of your current financial status. Review your savings, investments, debts, and any retirement income sources such as pensions or Social Security. Understand how much equity you have in your current home and how that can be leveraged in your downsizing plan. Knowing your financial baseline will help you set realistic goals for your downsizing journey.

Assess Whether Your Portfolio Is Retirement-Ready
Ensuring that your asset allocation is properly aligned with your retirement goals is key to generating the returns you’ll need while managing risk. After all, the money you’ve saved is meant to cover your retirement expenses, so it’s crucial to make sure your portfolio is positioned to provide the financial security you’re counting on.

Set a Budget for Your New Home

Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a new, smaller home. Factor in all costs associated with purchasing a new property, including closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and potential renovations. Be sure to also consider ongoing expenses, like utility bills and maintenance, which may be lower in a smaller home. Setting a clear budget will help you avoid overspending and ensure that your new home aligns with your financial goals.

Consult a Financial Advisor

Before making any major decisions, it’s wise to consult with a financial advisor who can help you understand the long-term impact of downsizing on your retirement plan. They can provide insights on how to best use the proceeds from selling your current home, whether it’s investing the money, paying off debt, or boosting your retirement savings. A financial advisor can also help you plan for unexpected expenses and ensure that your downsizing move supports your overall financial health.

Consider Tax Implications

Downsizing can have tax implications, especially if you’re selling a home that has significantly appreciated in value. Be aware of capital gains taxes and how they might affect your financial situation. In some cases, you may be eligible for exemptions, but it’s important to understand the rules and plan accordingly. Consulting with a tax professional can help you navigate these complexities and ensure that you’re making informed decisions.

Calculate How Much You Should Withdraw in Retirement
Many financial planners suggest using a 4% withdrawal rate as a guideline. For example, if you have $1 million in your 401(k), this would typically provide an annual income of $40,000 while keeping pace with inflation," explains Sean Casterline, president and senior portfolio manager at Delta Capital Management. However, if you need a higher income, you risk dipping into your principal, which could affect your long-term financial security.

By preparing yourself financially and taking these steps, you can make your downsizing experience smooth and secure, setting yourself up for a comfortable and enjoyable retirement.

If you have questions about what to do or how to best prepare for retirement, please reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team. We have a network of Preferred Partners, including financial advisors, professional movers & storage companies, as well as our trusted CPA, who can help provide clarity and guidance.

6 Ways Local School Districts Impact Sacramento Home Values

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 03:10:31 GMT

When it comes to finding the perfect home, several key factors influence the decision: price, location, amenities, safety, and, for many families—including those we've assisted in relocating from across the country—the quality of the school district. Homebuyers with children or those who intend to grow their families in the future often prioritize good schools which drives up demand and property values in those areas.

In fact, 30% of buyers between the ages of 33-42 say the school district is a top factor when choosing their neighborhood ( NAR ). In this article, we'll explore how school districts influence real estate prices and what it means for you.

MORE HOMEBUYERS WITH CHILDREN ARE ENTERING THE MARKET

More than 50% of millennials are now homeowners (US Census), meaning there has been a significant increase in families entering the market. As more young families move into a specific area, the demand for homes in good school districts rises. This increased demand often leads to higher home prices. It’s a simple case of supply and demand.

homebuyers look at school ratings

Ever heard of Niche.com or GreatSchools.org? Sites like these are used by millions of homebuyers each year when on the hunt for a new home. This is because these sites display school ratings, SAT scores, teacher to student ratios, graduation rates and other district-related data that play a crucial role in their decision-making process.

These ratings have a significant impact on buyer behavior as families are drawn to districts with high ratings, believing they offer superior education and safer environments for their children.

Great schools mean great home values. According to a recent article by Realtor.com , homes located in top-performing districts tend to sell up to 8 days faster. Families want the best education for their kids, so homes in top-notch school districts are in high demand—ultimately driving up property values. It’s all about ensuring kids get the best start in life!

Additionally, properties in these areas are often seen as solid long-term investments. The value of homes in top-rated school districts typically appreciates steadily, offering financial security. Moreover, well-rated schools enhance the overall reputation of a community, further boosting demand.

the convenience of proximity

Living close to a school is a huge plus for busy families, as balancing personal needs and investment potential go hand in hand. Easy access to schools means less time commuting and more time together. This convenience makes neighborhoods with nearby schools more desirable, which bumps up home values.

facility access & amenities

Amenities in a homes are important, but so are a school's amenities! Think about all the extras a school can offer—libraries, sports fields, science labs, and even the latest tech gadgets. These resources make schools more appealing, and in turn, they boost the value of the community and nearby homes.

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, every dollar spent on school funding can increase property values by around $20. So when thinking about purchasing a home, it is wise to consider neighboring schools and everything the have to offer your children.

Long term investment stability

Buying a home in a sought-after school district isn’t always about the kids; it’s a smart investment. Quality schools offer stability, even when the economy gets tough. Homes in these areas are more resilient to market ups and downs, making them a solid long-term investment.

PERCEPTION OF THE HOUSING MARKET

Sellers know that homes in good school districts can command higher prices. Typically, homes in great school districts receive 26% more views than the average listing and 42% more than those in lower-performing districts. ( Realtor.com ) This can lead to higher overall home values in the area. So, make sure to check with The Sherri Patterson Team to learn about the local school districts within the area. We are Sacramento area experts and are more than happy to get you the inside scoop.

Overall, school districts play a huge role in home values because education is a top priority for many families. The reputation, resources, and proximity of schools directly affect the desirability of homes in these areas. Homes in great school districts not only tend to have higher values but also offer a smart, long-term investment.

Mid-Year Real Estate Market Update: Brian Buffini's Bold Predictions Recap

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 20:30:00 GMT

In his recent Mid-Year Bold Predictions, Brian Buffini , the chairman and founder of Buffini & Company met with National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)’s Chief Legal Officer Katie Johnson to offer insights on what the future holds for the real estate market. Below is a recap, which includes how he addressed negative headlines, research, and what’s in store for the rest of 2024.

The Good, The Bad, & The Promising

Buffini cut through some of the negative media headlines and shared fact-based research and analysis regarding what is really happening in real estate. Despite that the current real estate market hasn’t been this slow since the mid-90s, he predicted that 40% of sales will happen in the fall of 2024. This is due to a rising inventory as more sellers will be putting their homes on the market and more new home construction is happening in nearly every major market. Furthermore, sales volumes have picked up over the last few months, with 36.7% more homes on the market as compared to last year, giving a more promising market sentiment.

Rising Rents Are Adding Pressure to Buyers

Escalating rents have gradually desensitized both home sellers and buyers to what was once considered "high" prices. As rental costs soar, the perception of high home prices has shifted, making them the new normal. This shift means that inaction isn't a viable option, as the market continues to move regardless. CNBC reported that more than 12 million Americans spend 50% or more of their income on housing.

Consequently, people are still actively selling and buying homes, recognizing that what might have seemed unaffordable in the past is now standard. This dynamic drives continued activity in the housing market, with both buyers and sellers adapting to the evolving economic landscape.

Mortgage Rates Have Been Stubborn But Will Ease a Bit

Buffini discussed his thoughts on buyers and sellers who are now becoming immune to mortgage rates as they stubbornly hovered in the 7% range over the past few months. It’s predicted that there will be one rate cut this year, with rates dropping to as low as 6.67%, with more decreases expected in 2025.

Millennial Homebuyers Will Make a Difference

Buffini also noted the impact of millennials — approximately 72 million in the United States — on the future of real estate. The average age of a person leaving the family home is 26. The average age of a first-time homebuyer is 35.

This combined group — approximately 45.5 million — is anxiously waiting on the sidelines ready to jump into the market once rates start consistently dropping, Buffini said. This generation, having navigated a landscape of economic uncertainty, student loan debt, and fluctuating job markets, is eager to establish stability through homeownership.

Their entry into the market is expected to drive significant demand, potentially revitalizing both urban and suburban areas. Moreover, their preferences for sustainable living, proximity to amenities, and smart home technologies will likely shape the types of properties that gain popularity. As rates become more favorable, the influx of millennial buyers could lead to increased competition, driving further activity in an already dynamic real estate market.

For more personalized local insights, connect with The Sherri Patterson Team as we navigate the rest of 2024 together.

Sacramento's Summer Bucket List: 15 Fun Things to Do This Summer

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 20:30:00 GMT

Summer is here and it's the ideal time to venture out and discover the charms of Sacramento. Whether you're a visitor enjoying a summer getaway or a local seeking fresh experiences, we've compiled a list of 15 fun summer activities just for you.

1. HEAD TO THE California STATE Fair

This summer will be filled with excitement and adrenaline at the California State Fair located in Sacramento. Not only are there rides, the interactive petting zoo, and carnival games, but there is so much food! This year, the Fair kicks off on July 12. Get tickets here .

2. Go to Folsom Lake

Nothing is better than taking a cool dip during a hot summer’s day, which is what Folsom Lake is perfect for! This treasure is perfect for all sorts of activities, such as Wake surfing, swimming, paddle boarding, and relaxing. There are various entry points, and some allow jet-skiing. On shore are provided benches and the perfect shaded areas to prop up some chairs and grub! Get more info here .

3. Visit a Local Farmer’s Market

As Sacramento is known to be the state's farm-to-fork capital, it's no wonder our farmer’s markets are top notch. Farmers markets in Midtown, Folsom, Roseville and all over the area have become our areas best go-tos spots during weekends in the summer. Most are filled with a variety of pop up shops, farm-fresh produce, food, honey, and more! Check out the list of markets on our Instagram !

4. GO RIVER-RAFTING

Whether you want to go full speed with white-water rafting or simply relax in one of our area's cool bodies of water, there is plenty to choose from this summer. Not only are there lakes and rivers but there are also companies who offer whitewater rafting, such as the American River Outpost .

5. Attend a Rivercats Game

Few things compare to the exhilaration of a thrilling sports match. Catch the Sacramento River Cats in action at Sutter Health Park. Tuesdays are extra special with the fantastic "Toyota Family Value Tuesday" deal offering $2 hot dogs and ice cream treats. We cannot mention a RiverCats game in the summer without giving a shout out to its Fireworks Saturdays events. More Info here .

6. Go on a Cruise around Sacramento

Sacramento is easy on the eye with so many gorgeous sights in and around its rivers. There are a variety of cruise’s that circulate around the Sacramento area, for example, a romantic cruise for you and your partner, a history based cruise to learn about the culture, and there is even a Sunday brunch cruise to enjoy with your friends! Not only can these cruise’s be a great date, history class, or food station, but they can also be a great place to relax. For more information visit: Sacramento Cruises, Boat Rides & Sightseeing Tours .

7. Check Out a Movie at the Drive-IN

Although the days are hot, the nights are perfect and cool in Sacramento, which is why spending a night at a drive-in movie theatre can be quite charming. Not only is it a perfect way to watch a movie but it’s a great way to add a new loving memory to the collection. The one and only drive in movie theater in the area is brought to you by West Wind Digital Drive In Cinemas. Here's a lineup of what will be screening this summer .

8. Visit Midtown

Presented by Sutter Health, Second Saturdays in Midtown is a hub of fun activities including live music, art galleries, dancing, entertainment, and so much more. Grab your friends and family and enjoy Sacramento’s Second Saturday events! Click here to explore Midtown .

9. Attend a Concert at the Toyota Amphitheater

Concerts are great and especially on a summer’s day, making the Toyota Ampitheater one of the best places to go to for a concert. Not only does the arena seat almost 19,000 people, but it also hosts some of the top musicians such as Iron Maiden, No Doubt, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers! To get a better look visit: Toyota Amphitheater Tickets .

10. Snap pics with Sunflowers in Yolo County

Nothing is better than the perfect summer picture, and if you’re into flowers and the beautiful Earth we live on then you will love the sunflowers in Yolo County. However, beauty isn’t the only great thing about these flowers, they smell fantastic! Fun fact: California farmers grow about 70,000 acres of sunflower annually, mostly in the Sacramento Valley, for hybrid seed stock. Nearly 95 percent of the sunflower seeds grown in Yolo County are sent around the world to be planted for oil and travel as far away as Russia and Argentina. Find out more .

11. Jam Out at the Sacramento Music Festival

Jamming out at the Sacramento Music Festival is by far one of the best ways to end your summer. Not only is there food, wine, craft beer, and concerts, but it is free! Located at the Capital Mall on Friday September 22 and Saturday September 23rd. Visit Sacramento Events for more info!

12. head to the California Automobile Museum

The California Automobile Museum showcases 150 cars from 1885 to the present. Talk about Back to the Future! During the summer, drive-ins are even provided from the museum, along with Sunday Drives on the third Sunday of every month. Learn more on its website .

13. Go to Fairytale Town

This specific area is aimed for the families with children. Fairytale Town is one of the best places to spend quality time with your children and partner with year-round small carnival rides, food and fun. For one night throughout the summer (in June, July and August) you can set up camp with your family and enjoy the theater performances, bedtime stories, and in the morning, the continental breakfast! Get info .

14. VISIT THE Sacramento Zoo

Another great way to spend time with the family is buy visiting the Sacramento Zoo. Stay one night at the zoo and spend your night with bedtime stories, snacks, night time walks, and animal meet and greets. Get tickets .

15. hop on a Jump Bike

One of the best ways to travel around Sacramento without having to really do anything is get a Jump bike. There are electric bikes and scooters around downtown which help provide a fun and memorable form of transportation, and they help save you gas money. These electric devices can be rented by your phone.

We hope this list of the top 15 summer activities in Sacramento inspires you to explore and enjoy all the city has to offer. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, Sacramento has something for everyone.

If you're considering relocating, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help you discover the perfect neighborhood and make your move seamless. We’d love to give you a tour of the area and show you why Sacramento is a fantastic place to call home. Happy exploring!

Does the Election Affect the Housing Market?

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 18:27:04 GMT

With the presidential election about four months away, some homebuyers and sellers are wondering how much will it affect the housing market. Between now and November 5, when we cast our ballots, much can change, but as many real estate trends pop up, some may just be unproven beliefs. Data shows presidential campaigns and promises of political candidates do not guarantee a change in the market, so before you make any rash decisions about buying or selling a home due to it being an election year, we'd like to shed some light on the situation.

Busting Myths

Will Interest Rates Go Down?

Contrary to popular belief, there is no consistent data to support the idea that interest rates improve during election years. Below, historical data for interest rates and presidential elections is shown. Looking at the past 13 elections, mortgage rates have been hit and miss, with no clear pattern or trend. This is because the housing marketing and mortgage rates during election years are influenced by various factors including inflation and the current economy. Data does not show that rates are directly affected by an election itself.

Will The Fed Get Involved?

Some people believe that the Federal Reserve—or even the president—might lower inflation to favor a particular party in power, but this is a myth. In reality, the Fed's rate policy is unlikely to be swayed by an upcoming election, as it operates independently and makes decisions based on economic indicators and data rather than political considerations.

Will Home Values Go Up or Down?

While we cannot predict whether homes will appreciate due to the elections, here's what has happened in the past. There have been nine presidential elections since 1987. Contrary to common expectations, home price appreciation during those election years has actually outpaced that in the 28 non-election years since then, according to a Bankrate analysis of the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Home Price Index . In the table below, Case-Shiller data reveals that, on average, home prices have risen by 4.84 percent in election years since 1987, compared to a 4.44 percent increase in non-election years. This might suggest that presidential elections benefit the housing market, but the reality is far more nuanced.

WHAT DOES THE DATA SAY?

The worst year for the housing market in recent decades was 2008. Home values plunged 12 percent that year, according to Case-Shiller. This drop had little to do with Barack Obama’s battle with John McCain and was instead a result of economic timing. The historic housing bubble from 2004 to 2007 had finally burst, and the global economy was collapsing. Conversely, one of the best years for home prices was 2004, when values soared 13.4 percent. This surge was primarily due to the inflating housing bubble, not George W. Bush’s re-election.

LET'S TALK ABOUT INVENTORY

Aside from mortgage rates, the housing inventory plays a key factor in the state of the market. Home values are driven by a number of factors such as the supply of housing, the demand for those homes, and the trajectory of mortgage rates. An election year does not directly influence these factors, and therefore will not necessarily affect the housing inventory.

It's important to be educated about the actual impact of the elections on the housing market before making a decision to buy or sell (because it's election year). As your trusted Sacramento real estate experts, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to provide you accurate information and to clarify trending real estate topics.

Want to discuss the state of the market and what may work best for your situation? We're happy to chat!

The Best Golf Courses to Take Dad for Father’s Day in Sacramento County

kat@copykatconsulting.com (Kat Kobzeff-Wells) — Thu, 30 May 2024 14:00:07 GMT

Tee Up for Father’s Day: Top Golf Spots in Sacramento!

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day in Sacramento? ⛳️ Whether Dad’s a seasoned pro or just loves a casual round, we’ve got you covered with the best golf courses in town. Discover the ideal spots to make this Father’s Day unforgettable! ��️‍♂️��

Haggin Oaks Golf Complex | Website

Haggin Oaks Golf Complex is a premier golfing destination in Sacramento. With two 18-hole championship courses, including the Alister MacKenzie Golf Course and the Arcade Creek Golf Course, Haggin Oaks offers something for every golfer. The Alister MacKenzie course is particularly notable for its classic design and challenging layout, making it a favorite among avid golfers.

WHERE: 3645 Fulton Avenue, Sacramento, CA

INSTAGRAM @ hagginoaks

SERRANO COUNTRY CLUB | Website

Treat Dad to an unforgettable Father’s Day at Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills, CA, where he can enjoy a round of golf on their stunning, championship-level course. Nestled in the picturesque Sierra foothills, Serrano offers the perfect blend of challenging play and breathtaking scenery.

WHERE: 5005 Serrano Parkway El Dorado Hills, CA 95762

ANCIL HOFFMAN GOLF COURSE | Website

Located in Carmichael, Ancil Hoffman Golf Course is nestled within a beautiful park along the American River. This scenic course, designed by William Francis Bell, is known for its lush fairways and mature oak trees. It provides a serene golfing experience that Dad will surely appreciate. The course is both challenging and enjoyable, perfect for a relaxing Father’s Day round.

WHERE: 6700 Tarshes Drive, Carmichael, CA 95608

INSTAGRAM: @ ancilhoffmangolfcourse

BING MALONEY GOLF COURSE | Website

Bing Maloney Golf Course offers a delightful golfing experience with its 18-hole Championship Course and a nine-hole Executive Course. The Championship Course is well-maintained and provides a fair test of golf with its tree-lined fairways and strategic bunkering. For a quicker round, the Executive Course is a great option, making it a versatile choice for Father’s Day. It's also kid-friendly, offering free balls for children at certain times throughout the week.

WHERE: 6801 Freeport Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95822

WILD HAWK | Website

Wildhawk Golf Club is a popular public course in Sacramento, offering an 18-hole championship layout that is both challenging and fun. The course features rolling terrain, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that come into play on several holes. Wildhawk is known for its friendly atmosphere, live music, and well-maintained conditions, making it a fantastic place to take Dad for a round of golf.

WHERE: 7713 Vineyard Road, Sacramento, CA 95829

INSTAGRAM: @ wildhawkgolfclub

To all the dads in the Sacramento area, The Sherri Patterson Team wishes you a very Happy Father's Day.

It's Homeownership Month, but Can You Still Afford the American Dream?

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Thu, 30 May 2024 07:00:00 GMT

June is Homeownership Month , but many Californians wonder if they can even afford to buy a home in the Golden State. If that's you, keep reading...

Owning a home is a big part of the American Dream. But with higher interest rates and prices, is it still possible? �� Don't worry! The Sherri Patterson Team is here to help. Check out our guide to making homeownership a reality in any market! ��✨

You can still afford to buy using these strategies...

When prices and interest rates are high, buying a home might seem daunting, but there are several strategies to make it more affordable:

Consider Alternate Locations: Look for homes in less expensive neighborhoods or consider smaller properties that fit your budget better. The Sherri Patterson Team has a knack for finding affordable homes in desirable neighborhoods. Connect with us to learn more.
Explore Different Mortgage Options: Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) and buy downs can offer lower initial rates compared to fixed-rate mortgages. Just be aware that rates can increase over time.
Improve Your Credit Score: A higher credit score can help you secure a better interest rate. Pay off debts and avoid taking on new ones to boost your score before applying for a mortgage.
Utilize First-Time Homebuyer Programs: Look into federal, state, and local programs that offer grants, loans, or tax incentives for first-time homebuyers, including down payment assistance programs.
Find Out if You Qualify For Programs That Help Lower-Income Families: Low-income home buying programs often aim to make the goal of homeownership possible by easing the burden of funding. The programs typically strive to offset and lower fees like closing costs. For example, the California Housing Finance Agency (CHFA) provides home buying programs intended to assist with down payments and closing costs.
Negotiate with Sellers: In some cases, sellers might be willing to cover closing costs or lower the price. It never hurts to ask! A skilled real estate agent should be able to negotiate well on your behalf.
Lock in Rates Early: If interest rates are rising, consider locking in your mortgage rate early in the buying process to avoid paying higher rates later.
Consider Buying a Fixer-Upper: Homes that need some work are often priced lower. With some renovations, you can create your dream home while building equity. Check out this article for our advice on buying a fixer-upper in Sacramento County .

The Benefits of Homeownership

Despite fluctuations in home affordability, owning a home remains a cornerstone of the "American Dream." The appeal goes beyond simply having a place to call your own; there are numerous advantages to homeownership:

An Investment Opportunity

Owning a home is often viewed as a smart investment, offering protection against inflation compared to other investment types. Unlike assets that tend to depreciate—like cars or certain financial instruments—real estate generally appreciates in value over time. Additionally, real estate can provide tax benefits and potential rental income, enhancing its appeal as a long-term investment.

Increase Your Net Worth

Homeownership is a powerful tool for building personal net worth. As homeowners pay down their mortgage and property values rise, their home equity increases, boosting their overall net worth. This equity can be leveraged for various financial goals, such as funding education, starting a business, or saving for retirement.

Build Generational Wealth

Another significant benefit of homeownership is the ability to build generational wealth. By owning a home and accumulating equity over time, homeowners can pass valuable assets down to future generations. This legacy provides financial stability and security for your family, ensuring they are taken care of long after you're gone. To build generational wealth through homeownership, it’s essential to maintain the property, make strategic improvements that increase its value, and develop a financial plan to preserve and grow the asset's value over time.

If affordability leaves you with questions, it’s important to remember the underlying reasons for wanting to become a homeowner. Whether your goal is to have a space to call your own, establish a stable home base for your family, or invest in real estate, the benefits of owning a home are plentiful.

If you have questions about the current market and are unsure how much home you can afford, reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team. We're here to help you navigate the home-buying process and guide you toward achieving the American Dream.

Here’s Where to Buy Fresh Flowers this Mother’s Day in Sacramento County

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 17:40:35 GMT

Looking for ways to spoil your mom this month for Mother’s Day? We’re with you! Moms are the unsung heroes of our lives and deserve the best. This Mother's Day, let's ditch the clichés and celebrate the real MVPs in style, with blooms as bold and beautiful as they are. Here’s our list of local florists to visit for the special ladies in your world.

Reminder: Mother’s Day is May 12th. It’s a busy time of year for most flower shops, so be sure to order ahead of time.

Judy’s Blossom Shop, Roseville CA | Website

If you’re in the Roseville-Granite Bay area, Judy’s Blossom Shop is your one-stop flower shop for unique, fresh flower bouquets. Its signature style is lush and full, featuring minimal fillers and premium foliage for arrangements that truly stand out. Each design showcased on their website has been meticulously crafted and photographed at their Roseville location, representing the unparalleled quality of their products and workmanship. With Judy's Blossom Shop, customers can trust that every bloom is handpicked and arranged with the utmost care, ensuring a breathtaking display that speaks volumes.

G. Rossi Florist, Downtown Sacramento CA | Website

Instagram @ grossiflorist

Considered one of the most impressive fresh-cut flower shops in Downtown Sacramento, G. Rossi provides professionally designed flower arrangements and gift baskets for all occasions, ( Yes, and yes for Mother’s Day ), complemented by exceptional customer service. With more than 200 near-perfect reviews on Google, G. Rossi stands out as one of the best florists in the area.

Miracle Flowers, Folsom CA | Website

With an enchanting array of vibrant blooms and artfully crafted arrangements, this gem of a flower shop is the go-to destination for those seeking to dazzle Mom on her special day. What sets Miracle Flowers apart? They offer same-day delivery within Folsom, helping you shower your mom with beautiful bouquets precisely when it matters most. Miracle Flowers aims to help you create a heartfelt experience any time of the year.

Relles Florist, Sacramento CA | Website

Instagram @ rellesflorist

Relles Florist has proudly been in Sacramento for 77 years as a premiere family florist. Owned and managed by the Relles Family, boasting over 55 years of collective experience in the floral industry, Relles was voted "Best Florist" by readers of "Sacramento Magazine.” If you’re looking for variety, Relles’ extensive selection has you covered, including many different floral bouquets, exquisite flowers, blooming and tropical plants, permanent botanical silks and arrangements, balloons, and gifts.

Morningside Florist, Rancho Cordova CA | Website

Instagram @ morningsideflorist

Morningside Florist serves as Rancho Cordova and Sacramento's go-to flower shop, offering same-day delivery and customizable arrangements to meet every customer's needs. With over 35 years of experience as a family-owned and operated business, they have consistently provided unparalleled customer service. The distinctive Morningside Style showcases vibrant blooms and unmistakable designs bursting with flowers. Serving the Greater Sacramento area, Morningside Florist is dedicated to connecting with customers and delivering floral excellence.

To all the mothers in the Sacramento area, The Sherri Patterson Team wishes you a very happy Mother’s Day.

Enclosed or Partially-Covered Porches

Enjoy the outdoors without worrying about the weather. Enclosed or partially covered porches provide a sheltered space that allows you to relish the fresh air while staying protected from the elements. Create a cozy retreat by incorporating weather-resistant fabrics and furniture that will ensure your outdoor haven is a year-round sanctuary.

Terracotta Vibes

Ride the rising trend of terracotta and bring earthy tones to your outdoor decor. With clay pots making a comeback for their resistant nature and earthy tones, designers are incorporating these clay colors with other natural palettes. Consider pairing stone accents with terracotta pots, tiles, and décor to add a touch of warmth to your outdoor areas.

Is Buying a Fixer Upper in Sacramento Worth It?

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 19:35:27 GMT

In the Sacramento area where many homes in higher-priced neighborhoods are out-of-budget for homebuyers, the question of putting in an offer on a turnkey home or a fixer-upper is a big one. Recent data shows that project homes in the Golden State can cost as much as 30% less. But besides a lower entry point, what else should you consider when thinking about buying a home that needs work?

While the charm of transforming a fixer-upper into a dream home has been popularized by numerous home renovation shows— thank you, Chip & Joanna Gaines —it’s crucial to understand what you’ll be getting to before embarking on your fixer-upper journey.

Continue reading for our take on the most expensive repairs, the significance of "good bones," and realistic expectations regarding budget, time, and future plans.

WHY YOUR FIXER NEEDS "GOOD BONES"

When experts say a house has "good bones," they're referring to it having a solid foundation, structural integrity, a functional layout, and the absence of major issues that can be costly or difficult to fix. While a home that needs “a little work” may save money, a home with major issues can cost you more in the long run. A home inspection is crucial if you are purchasing a home built 20+ years ago, getting a foundation inspection may be a good idea as well. A home with good bones will give you a strong base for whatever renovations you plan to make.

CONSIDER THE MOST EXPENSIVE REPAIRS

Certain repairs can dramatically increase the cost of renovating a fixer-upper. These typically include foundation repairs, roof replacement, electrical system overhauls, plumbing updates, and addressing any mold or water damage. Before making an offer on a fixer-upper, in addition to getting a thorough inspection, it's recommended you ask your real estate agent to reach out to local contractors to get estimates of repair and renovation costs.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Renovating a fixer-upper often comes with surprises, which is why it's important to expect the unexpected. Setting aside a contingency fund (usually 10-20% of your renovation budget) can help manage unforeseen expenses without derailing your project. The average renovation costs for major overhauls can vary widely depending on location, the home's condition, and the extent of the renovations planned. In California, the average cost of renovating a home ranged from $11K to $88K.

PLANNING YOUR RENOVATION

The scope of your renovations will significantly depend on how long you plan to live in the home, your budget, and your timeline. For those planning to make it their forever home, investing in more extensive, high-quality renovations might make sense. However, if you're fixing up the home to sell in the near future, focusing on updates that increase property value and appeal to a broad audience might be more strategic.

While fixer-uppers offer the potential for a customized home at a potentially lower initial price point, they also require careful planning, a realistic budget, and a good understanding of what you're getting into.

If you're questioning if buying a fixer-upper is worth it in the Sacramento area, make sure to do your homework, and don't hesitate to reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team for local contractor recommendations. With the right approach and guidance, transforming a fixer-upper into your perfect home can be a rewarding experience.

Outdoor Living Trends for 2024

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 23:29:18 GMT

Spring is here, Sacramento! We’re loving the extra sunshine and warmer temps, but nothing can beat spending time with the fam out on the patio. If you’ve noticed your outdoor space could use a little makeover, we’ve got a list of design trends that can revamp any dull porch or patio.

Check out 2024’s latest outdoor living trends.

Extending Indoor Spaces

Blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living by creating a seamless transition. This often involves panoramic sliding glass doors that can expand your living space onto your porch or patio. This allows for more natural light and an effortless flow from the living room to your outdoor oasis.

Bold Colors & Patterns

Say goodbye to neutrals! In 2024, outdoor spaces are popping with bright hues and playful patterns. Professional designers suggest adding a splash of color through easy-to-change textiles like pillows and throw blankets. Mix florals, stripes, and bold hues for a perfectly thrown-together look, transforming your patio without replacing all your furniture.

Eucalyptus Furniture

Embrace eco-friendly styles with eucalyptus wood furniture. Native to Australia, this durable material is resistant to rot and decay while also providing comfort and sustainability. Many stylists are embracing the “organic modern” trend that includes modern designs built from natural materials—making eucalyptus furniture a must-have this season.

Brick pavers

Timeless and versatile, brick pavers are making a major comeback. Their customizable nature provides a rustic, lived-in aesthetic suitable for any outdoor setup that complements various architectural styles. And if you really want to liven up your space, consider adding outdoor lighting or bistro lights to complete the warm glow of your brick haven.

Luxurious Outdoor Kitchens

Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with updated features and appliances. Many people have splurged on built-in fireplaces, custom pizza ovens, expansive counter space, smokers, and wine refrigerators to upgrade their outdoor entertaining game.

Edible Gardens

Square foot gardens have been the rage for quite some time, and it’s safe to assume they’re here to stay. Not only do these personal gardens add lush greenery to your space, but they offer sustainability to your day-to-day life. Growing your own herbs and produce can help lower the cost of your grocery bill and add nutrients to any home-cooked meal.

Small Decks and Patios

Size doesn't matter when it comes to outdoor living. Whether you have a cozy balcony or an expansive yard, people are maximizing their outdoor space to its fullest potential. Make every inch county by utilizing multi-functional furniture and storage-savvy decorations in your outdoor designs.

Outdoor Games

It’s no secret—people want to spend more time outdoors. So, create a space that allows you to foster connections with family and friends through outdoor games like chess, tic-tac-toe, and cornhole. Many people (ahem, millennials) value experiences as much as aesthetics, so now is the time to transform your space into a playground for all ages.

Enclosed or Partially-Covered Porches

Terracotta Vibes

Outdoor Décor Local Businesses

Are you ready to incorporate these 2024 trends into your own space? The Sherri Patterson Team is a big supporter of shopping local, and we highly recommend paying one of our Sacramento-based furniture stores a visit for all your outdoor design needs.

Here’s a hand-picked list from the members of our team:

Bushnell Gardens | Granite Bay

California Backyard | Multiple locations

Pottery World | Rocklin

Emigh’s Ace Hardware | Sacramento

For more home design trends and other homeowner tips, make sure to reach out to our team! We are always here to make Sacramento feel more and more like home.

10 Things Sacramento Sellers Shouldn't Have in Their Home

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 23:13:49 GMT

The Greater Sacramento Area is considered a safe place to live, but when listing your home you don’t want to take any chances. The agent showing your home should always have a log-in sheet requesting contact details and be present during open houses and showings to reduce the impact or damage on your home.

Beyond the basics, there are several other precautions the Sherri Patterson Team recommends to ensure your family and bottom line are protected when selling. Below is a list of 10 things to consider.

1. Valuables on Display

To safeguard against potential theft during showings, it's wise to keep valuables like jewelry and expensive watches out of sight. Consider placing them in a security box, leaving them with a trusted neighbor, or storing them safely with a family member.

2. Medications

Some more personal items we recommend stowing away are medications and prescriptions. America is facing an opioid crisis with six times more opioid-related deaths and overdoses in recent years compared to 1999 ( CDC ). You never know who is touring your home, so it’s better to play it safe when it comes to prescription misuse.

3. Bills, Checks, & Monetary Information

To prevent the temptation of prying eyes, be sure to lock away all bills and financial documents. If you have a filing cabinet, correctly store all documents—and don’t forget to lock it. Criminals often know where to look for important information, so adding an extra layer of security is never a bad idea.

4. Personal Photos

Safeguard your family's privacy by removing photos, holiday cards, and personal memories. This will help protect against scammers who use sensitive information to trick you into potential cons.

5. Pets in Listing Photos

We know you love your pets, but your furry friends might be the tipping point for potential buyers. To increase your home's appeal, it's essential to remove evidence of pets, like dog kennels and cat towers, before taking listing photos. This will help prevent potential buyers from forming biased opinions about cleanliness or odors.

6. Security Cameras (without a sign)

If you have a security camera—or even an infamous RING doorbell— it's essential to display a sign notifying visitors of surveillance. This is a legal requirement in many areas and also provides transparency to potential buyers. Now, anyone attending a showing or open house of your property will be at ease and attentive when touring the home.

7. Cleanliness Requirements

While staying tidy is great when selling your home, it's equally important not to go overboard. Being overly concerned about cleanliness—such as requiring plastic booties on new carpets—can create liability issues. There’s always a risk of buyers tripping on plastic carpet covers or flimsy booties, and this can lead to a messy lawsuit. So, adopt a practical mindset and remember that minor messes can be easily cleaned.

8. Signs of Distress or Desperation

Buyers shouldn’t know the reason why you’re selling your home, but they can often point out tell-tale signs of certain situations. For example, if sellers are working through a divorce and need to sell the house, it’s not difficult to put the pieces together when the closet is half-full and half the furniture is gone. So, do your best to minimize any major home changes during the selling process. There’s no need to let buyers make assumptions and attempt to negotiate a lower price.

9. Exposed Safes

Before taking your listing photos, consider covering—or even disguising—your personal safes. Photos of your home will be advertised across the internet, so it’s always best to avoid drawing attention to these items. You can get creative by placing a cardboard box over those obvious safes to help maintain a low profile and protect your valuable possessions.

10. Absent During Open Houses

Finally, what is the #1 thing that shouldn’t be in your home during an open house or a showing? YOU! (We know that might sound a little harsh, but it’s true.) It’s important to give potential buyers the space they need during open houses and showings. Buyers are more likely to provide honest feedback when the seller is not around, and this allows your real estate agent to gather valuable insights and negotiate effectively on your behalf.

We want to clarify that these tips are all a safety precaution. Rarely do people maliciously target sellers, but it can happen from time to time. So, make sure to be prepared and keep these tips in mind to protect your loved ones.

For more listing guidance and info on the Sacramento market, make sure to reach out to the Sherri Patterson Team! We’re always here to keep it real when it comes to real estate.

Save Money on Your Insurance Premiums with These 7 Home Upgrades

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:17:48 GMT

Are you looking to save money on your insurance premiums in the Sacramento area? Investing in certain home upgrades not only enhances the safety and comfort of your home but can also lead to significant savings on your insurance costs. Here are seven smart home upgrades that can help you lower your insurance premiums.

1. Water Shut-Off Devices

With the increasing concern for flooding nationwide, insurance companies are offering premium savings for homes equipped with water shut-off devices. These devices allow you to quickly respond to flood alerts, protecting your home from potential disasters while also saving you money on insurance premiums.

2. Security System

Installing a home security system can qualify you for insurance discounts. With a variety of smartphone-enabled options available, such as alarm systems and video doorbells, safeguarding your home has never been more convenient or affordable.

3. Upgraded Plumbing

Periodic updates to your home's plumbing system can result in significant savings on insurance premiums. In addition to improved performance and durability, modern plumbing upgrades allow you to enjoy the benefits of updated appliances and fixtures.

4. New Wiring

Homes built before the 1960s may have outdated electrical wiring, posing safety hazards. Upgrading to modern materials like copper can enhance safety and lead to substantial savings on insurance premiums.

5. New HVAC System

Upgrade your home's comfort and efficiency by installing a new Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Modern HVAC systems not only improve your living environment but also reduce energy consumption, potentially leading to lower insurance rates.

6. Electric or Gas Fireplace

Replace traditional wood-burning fireplaces with electric or gas alternatives to address safety concerns and qualify for insurance discounts. Not only are these options safer, but they also contribute to potential savings on your insurance premiums.

7. Roof Renovation or Replacement

While a new roof may require a significant upfront investment, it can lead to substantial savings on insurance premiums. Some insurance companies offer discounts for specific roofing materials, such as hail or wind-resistant shingles. Investing in a new roof is a wise decision, as insurance coverage for older roofs may be limited.

By investing in these seven home upgrades, you can not only enhance the safety and comfort of your home but also enjoy substantial savings on your insurance premiums in the Sacramento area. Take advantage of these opportunities to protect your home and your wallet. Tax season is right around the corner!

The Quickest & Easiest Ways to Discover Your Home's Worth In the Sacramento Area

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 05:34:00 GMT

You buy groceries, clothes, and even cars online or with the swipe of a finger on an app, but when it comes to finding out the value of your home, can you rely on Redfin or Zillow apps? While these platforms offer convenient estimates, many overlook the complexities involved in accurately assessing a property's worth.

It’s important to learn about other methods dedicated to educating you on your home’s value. From Zestimates to CMAs to appraisals, below are the top methods for finding your home’s value and the difference betwe en them.

But first...Why Zestimates Fall Short

While Zillow's Zestimate system may seem convenient, it can be influenced by limited data, market volatility, and occasional errors. The site has acknowledged its algorithm’s limits and instead provides a range of estimated values and an accuracy score.

CMA vs Appraisal

So, if not a Zestimate—where do you start? It’s typical to seek out a CMA if you are a seller considering listing your home on the market. Meanwhile, buyers typically receive home appraisals to solidify their loan amount during the due diligence process.

Let’s break down their differences:

CMA - A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is an estimate formed by realtors that base your home’s value on recently sold, similar properties in your area. Agents use CMAs to assist sellers in setting listing prices and aid buyers in making competitive offers.

Appraisal - An appraisal is a formal valuation conducted on the buyer's behalf, driven by the needs of the mortgage lender. A state-licensed appraiser evaluates comparable homes, considers market conditions, and generates a report for the lender's approval.

How a CMA is Prepared

CMAs are typically prepared by real estate agents or brokers using multiple listing service (MLS) data and local market knowledge. Agents analyze recent sales, active listings, and pending transactions to identify comparable properties and assess pricing trends. By evaluating factors such as square footage, location, condition, and amenities, agents can provide sellers and buyers with realistic price expectations.. Here is an example of what to expect:

When Should You Get a CMA vs. Appraisal

The decision to obtain a CMA or an appraisal depends on your specific circumstances and goals. If you're considering selling your home or refinancing your mortgage, a CMA can give you a general idea of your property's value and help you set a competitive listing price. However, if you're involved in a complex real estate transaction or need an accurate valuation for legal or financial purposes, an appraisal may be necessary to ensure an unbiased assessment.

This is How Realtors Make a Difference

When it comes to discovering the true value of your home, having a trusted Realtor by your side can make all the difference. We are armed with an arsenal of powerful tools and industry experience that elevates the accuracy of home valuations. Through access to comprehensive databases, including MLS listings and historical sales data, we can pinpoint the most relevant comparables tailored to your property's unique attributes. With our expertise in local market trends and fluctuations, we provide invaluable guidance, ensuring your home's worth is assessed with precision.

From assessing recent renovations to evaluating neighborhood dynamics, we bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, offering a holistic view of your property's value. In an industry where accuracy is paramount, partnering with a Realtor unlocks the door to confident decision-making and real estate success.

While Zestimates may offer a quick glimpse into your home's value, they often lack the precision and accuracy of CMAs and appraisals. By understanding the differences between these valuation methods and knowing when to seek professional assistance, homeowners in Folsom, El Dorado Hills, and Sacramento can make informed decisions about their real estate investments. Give us a call if you’re curious to know your home’s value!

Valentine Pizza Party 2024

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 23:51:33 GMT

So grateful for you with every “pizza” my heart! We had such a fun afternoon sharing the love with our clients at our Valentine Pizza Party, co-hosted with GUIDE Real Estate.

VIP Escape Room Client Event

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 23:44:38 GMT

Our business is built on referrals so we love to celebrate our clients that have referred us to their friends, family and co-workers. This year we decided to “get locked in and party our way out” at Red Door Escape Room in Rancho Cordova. We had so much fun working together to solve the clues and escape successfully! We then headed over to Out of Bounds Brewery to continue the fun, enjoy dinner together and win some amazing raffle prizes. Special thanks to our Co-host, Lynn Lizarraga of First Citizen Bank, Cindi Taylor of Big Valley Mortgage for donating 3 days at her Tahoe Donner cabin and to The Shop in Granite Bay for donating a kitchen themed raffle basket from their lovely shop.

A Love Letter to Sacramento: Celebrating Its Culinary and Cultural Gems

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 23:10:56 GMT

Dear Sacramento,

You are more than just a California metro; you're a tapestry woven with threads of culture, history, and diversity. From the majestic Tower Bridge spanning the serene waters of the Sacramento River to the sun-touched hills in Folsom, every corner of your landscape holds a special place in our hearts. Sacramento, you are the beating heart of California. Thank you for being our home, our sanctuary, and our source of endless adventure.

xoxo,

The Sherri Patterson Team

There are so many reasons we fell in love with living in the Sacramento area. Whether you currently live here or thinking about relocating to this NorCal gem, we’ve put together a list of some of the best the city has to offer. As an ode to SacTown, here are a few gems we adore.

For Date Night: Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Co.

IG: @hook_and_ladder | www.hookandladder916.com

A t Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Company, old-school charm meets modern vibes. This Sacramento favorite, housed in a former warehouse, serves up locally sourced eats and creative cocktails that'll blow your mind. From crispy pork belly bites to Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Chef Anthony Scuderi's menu is a culinary journey worth taking. Don't miss their lunchtime chickpea fritters or the bar's killer rye cocktails. If you're looking for cool vibes and delicious eats, Hook & Ladder has you covered.

Sherri Patterson Team Faves:

Alyssa says: 7th St. Standard and Clayton Rooftop Lounge

Fran says: Sellands and South Fork

David says: Sutter Street Steakhouse

Beth says: Zocalos

Best Place to Unwind: Asha Urban Baths

www.ashaurbanbaths.com | IG: @ ashaurbanbaths

Asha Urban Baths pioneers the wellness scene by modernizing age-old communal bathhouse traditions, making relaxation and rejuvenation accessible to urban communities. This unique urban oasis provides a range of services and experiences such as sound immersion, salt therapy, massage, soaking, saunas, and more, inviting people to slow down, unplug, and unwind regularly. If you’re looking for a unique rejuvenating experience, Asha is the spot. Originally located in Sacramento, it recently opened its doors in December 2023 at its location on Greenback Lane in Folsom. Now, this side of the 50 has a gathering place to restore well-being with heat and water.

Best Place to Buy a Gift for a Loved One: Westfield Galleria Mall, Roseville

www.westfield.com/united-states/galleriaatroseville | IG: @ westfieldgar

When it comes to unparalleled shopping and dining experiences in the Sacramento area, the Westfield Galleria in Roseville, CA is a top pick. With more than 200 stores featuring renowned brands and boutiques, alongside a diverse array of culinary options, the Galleria is a premier destination for fashion, entertainment, and gourmet cuisine. From upscale fashion labels to family-friendly eateries, Westfield Galleria offers something for everyone, making it the ultimate shopping and dining destination in the heart of Roseville.

Sherri Patterson Team Faves:

Alyssa says: Online stores Taft & Jord , Moon Magic , and Creamy’s in Sac for cheesecake

Fran says: Bath & Body Works

David says: See’s Candies

Beth says: Anthropologie & Record stores

Date Day Idea: “Live it Up Like in Palm Springs” | Shangri-la

www.shangrilafairoaks.com | IG: @shangrilafairoaks

Nestled in the heart of Fair Oaks, Shangri-la exudes the local charm in a distinctive setting. This unique space offers seasonal, contemporary American cuisine paired with handcrafted cocktails. Boasting modernist architectural design, fire pits, and a vibrant indoor/outdoor bar, Shangri-la doubles as both a full-service restaurant and a private events venue—evoking the ambiance of a Palm Springs resort.

Date Day Idea: “A Day at the Museum” | Crocker Art Museum

www.crockerart.org

The Crocker Art Museum stands as a beacon of cultural richness and artistic brilliance in Sacramento. With its impressive collection spanning diverse periods and styles, the museum offers a captivating journey through the world of art. Beyond its remarkable galleries, the museum hosts engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, fostering a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts of all ages. With its blend of history, innovation, and creativity, the Crocker Art Museum is not just a destination—it's an immersive experience that ignites curiosity and inspires wonder. No wonder it has more than 3,000 5-star reviews on Google!

Sherri Patterson Team Ideas:

Alyssa says: Wine tasting in Amador County or take a walk at Kalithea Park for views of Folsom Lake

Fran says: Sunday Brunch without the kids

David says: Wine tasting and lunch at Starfield Vineyards

Beth says: Hiking or a Date Trip

For Farm-Fresh Shopping | Midtown Farmers Market

www.facebook.com/MidtownFarmersMarketSacramento | IG: @midtownfarmersmarket

Sacramento's farmers markets are simply the best, offering fresh, local produce and goodies while bringing people together for a good time. One of our favorite markets if you’re in the city is the Midtown Farmers Market on Sacramento's 20th Street. It offers fresh produce, food, and crafts every Saturday. Divided into two sections, it's a lively community spot with cooking demos, music, and play areas. Located near the Midtown Art Retail Restaurant Scene (MARRS) building, it's perfect for a family outing in Sacramento's shopping district.

Best Place for Unique Desserts: Bubble Cone

www.bubbleconesac.com | IG: @ bubblehives

Bubblehives in Sacramento is famous for its innovative desserts, including their signature "bubble" cones—a delightful blend of waffle and cake. Topped with fresh strawberries, sprinkles, and whipped cream, these treats are a must-try. Whether you visit their cozy restaurant or spot their bustling food truck, Bubblehives offers a unique dining experience that combines the sweetness of bubble tea with creative dessert creations, making it a beloved fixture in Sacramento's culinary scene.

What are some of the places you love in Sacramento? Tag us on social (@sherripattersonteam) so we can catch your vibes.

7 Tax Benefits of Owning a Home in Sacramento

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 15:45:45 GMT

Not only is Sacramento one of the most affordable major cities in California, it’s also a business and cultural hot spot, attracting medical professionals, entrepreneurs and other creative professionals. Low-cost living as well as excellent schools and a booming housing market are a few reasons to want to own a home here— but did you know that there are several tax benefits as well?

From property tax deductions to exemptions offered by certain school districts, municipalities and counties, there are plenty of perks available to homeowners in Sacramento. Keep reading for tips to help you out this tax season!

1. Say Thanks to Proposition 13

In California where home values tend to be higher as compared to other states, property taxes are limited by Proposition 13 or “Prop 13.” This proposition rolled back most local real estate assessments to 1975 market value levels, limited the property tax rate to 1 percent plus the rate necessary to fund local voter-approved bonded indebtedness, and limited future property tax increases to a maximum of 2% per year.

More easily understood, California’s overall property taxes are below the national average due to Proposition 13. This is excellent news for those considering a move to Sacramento from regions with lower home values, as it helps ease the potential "shock" of purchasing a higher-valued home in California.

2. Take Advantage of Sacramento’s Tax Savings Program for Homeowners

The Homeowners' Exemption provides homeowners a discount of $7,000 of assessed value resulting in a savings of approximately $70-$80 in property taxes each year. Not a huge savings, but since this is a free program there’s nothing to lose and perhaps a paid-for DoorDash order to gain? There are a few qualifications an application is required. In addition to being a You must be a property owner, co-owner or a purchaser named in a contract of sale, the home must be used as a primary residence. Head over to the Sac County assessor’s website for more information.

3. Deduct Your Mortgage Interest

Homeowners with mortgages not exceeding $750,000 can deduct the interest on their loans, which is arguably one of the best tax advantages of homeownership. This deduction has been facilitated by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which lowered the limit from the previous $1 million. Additionally, homeowners can deduct interest on up to $100,000 of home equity debt, regardless of the purpose for which the borrowed money was used.

4. Deduct Mortgage Insurance Premiums

Did you purchase your home in 2007 or after or are thinking about buying a home this year? You would be eligible to deduct mortgage insurance premiums, including PMI. For tax returns filed as "Married Filing Separate," the deduction begins to phase out when the adjusted gross income exceeds $50,000. For all other types of tax returns, the deduction phases out when the adjusted gross income exceeds $100,000.

5. You Can Take Money Out of Your IRA to Help Buy Your House, Penalty-Free

Sometimes the most difficult part of purchasing a home is coming up with the funds to either buy down the rate, get the down payment, or cover other costs associated with closing. If you have an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), the IRS allows you to withdraw up to $10,000 individually (or $20,000 for married couples) from your IRA for your down payment. The best part—you won’t incur the usual 10% penalty reserved for withdrawals before the age of 59-1/2. Just remember, you must utilize these IRA funds within 120 days of withdrawal. While this perk typically caters to first-time home buyers, even current homeowners can tap into this advantage provided they haven't owned a home in the past two years.

6. Use the Property Tax Deduction to Save Up to $10,000

Another valuable benefit for homeowners is being able to deduct property taxes, up to $10,000. It's important to remember that this deduction only applies to taxes on properties you own and live in, not for rental or commercial properties.

To claim your property tax deduction:

If your lender handles tax payments through an escrow account, you can find the tax amount on your IRS Form 1098 for easy deduction.
If you pay taxes directly to your municipality, keep records of your payments for deduction purposes.

7. You Can Deduct a Portion of Your Mortgage if You Work from Home

Have you been working from home recently? If you operate a home-based business, you may be eligible for the Home Office Deduction, which applies to both renters and homeowners. This tax relief requires utilizing part of your home for business. Check the IRS guidelines for eligibility and requirements.

Tax season is right around the corner! We hope these tips help you take advantage of all the deductions available to Sacramento County homeowners. When considering financial advice from The Sherri Patterson Team, we encourage you to consult with a professional for expert guidance.

Need help? Reach out to us for recommendations! We’re connected to some great CPAs and financial advisors in the Sacramento County area.

Neighborhood Shred It Event

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 22:45:37 GMT

We enjoyed a break in the rain long enough to host our 1st Neighborhood Shred It Event. Sherri’s neighborhood appreciated the opportunity to purge out old paperwork and dispose of it safely. We had fun getting to meet the neighbors, hanging out with the kiddos and nibbling on yummy donuts!

Cozy Cabin Retreats: Winter Getaways Near Sacramento

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:49:04 GMT

Oh, the weather outside is delightful! As winter ushers in its cool embrace in the Sacramento area, cozying up fireside becomes all the more enticing. We curated a list of nearby cabin rentals that offer warm and tranquil havens just outside the city, some offering snow-covered landscapes. Are you planning a winter getaway this month? Tag us on social (@sherripattersonteam) so we can see where you’re heading!

Photo Source: Expedia.com

1. Shingletown Cabins | Lassen National Forest

https://www.theoutbound.com | IG: @lassnnps

In the heart of Lassen National Forest is the quaint Shingletown which boasts secluded cabins surrounded by dense forests of pine trees. Charming, A-framed cabins such as the one pictured above , can be found located near the captivating Lassen Volcanic National Park. Shingletown provides an intimate winter escape with opportunities for hiking, snowshoeing, or simply reveling in the quiet beauty of a snow-draped woodland. If you prefer lodging in “non-bnbs,” look into the cabins at Manzanita Lake .

2. The Zephyr Cove Resort Cabins | South Lake Tahoe

https://visitlaketahoe.com/hotels/zephyr-cove-resort/ | IG: @zephyrcoveresort

Lake Tahoe, just a short drive from Sacramento, offers a plethora of charming cabins for winter retreats. Wake up to breathtaking views of the glistening lake and snow-covered pines as you cozy up in your cabin. Whether you're an avid skier or snowboarder, or simply seeking a serene winter escape, Lake Tahoe's rental cabins at Zephyr Cove provide the perfect accommodation.

3. Sierra Hot Springs | Sierraville

https://sierrahotsprings.org/ | IG: @sierrahotsprings

Indulge in the ultimate winter relaxation at Sierra Hot Springs in Sierraville, which is just a 2-hour drive from Sacramento. This retreat offers natural hot springs to soothe your soul after a day of exploring the snow-covered landscapes. Sierra Hot Springs provides a unique blend of winter adventure and therapeutic relaxation.

4. Constellation Creek Cabins | Sierra Hot Springs, Sierraville

https://www.constellationcreek.com/ | IG: @constellationcreek

Plan to make Sierraville the ultimate staycation destination as it also offers a hidden gem known as Constellation Creek, a cluster of cozy cabins, tastefully updated with modern decor, that is nestled alongside a creek that runs throughout the property. Constellation Creek is a nature-lovers escape, especially if you enjoy off-the-beaten paths to stargaze.

5. Rolling Lakes Cabins | Colfax, Placer

https://www.hipcamp.com | IG: @hipcamp

Perched in a serene spot where neighbors fade from view, the cabins at Rolling Lakes in Colfax offer an oasis of peace and privacy, surrounded by breathtaking 360-degree views. We found this beautiful 30-acre property (pictured above) on HipCamp.com. It features three unique accommodations—an inviting guest suite, a charming cabin, and a cozy glamping dome—where you can experience a stay indulging in the natural beauty of Colfax.

These real and rentable cabins near Sacramento promise a delightful winter retreat, each offering a unique experience within a short distance from the city. Whether you prefer the snowy landscapes of Lake Tahoe, the rustic charm of Tahoe National Forest, the soothing waters of Sierra Hot Springs, or the secluded haven of Shingletown, these cabins provide an ideal escape.

Sacramento Home Sales Are Expected to Soar in 2024: Real Estate Predictions from the Experts

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 20:35:25 GMT

2023 was a year of challenges, created in a post-pandemic market characterized by inflation, increased interest rates, and heightened uncertainty. But as we turn the chapter to a new year, hope is on the horizon!

Sacramento is poised to stand out among California metro areas in 2024. In fact, experts are predicting double-digit year-over-year sales growth(1), making it a hotspot for real estate activity in the upcoming year.

One source we turn to for real estate predictions is industry expert, Brian Buffini ’s biannual Bold Predictions. We recently attended his webinar and have outlined our biggest takeaways below.

Mortgage Interest Rate Hikes Lose Their Jolt

Buffini's recent market update sheds light on the evolving dynamics, especially regarding mortgage interest rates.

Many homeowners and potential buyers got used to lower interest rates (2.6-3%) which were a hallmark of 2020-2022, but Buffini points out—that era of remarkably low rates, a result of pandemic-induced recession responses—has died out. Currently, 90% of homeowners enjoy rates below 6%, but only a quarter of homeowners have rates below 3%.

The Prediction: Buffini predicts a shift, foreseeing formal rate cuts around July of next year, saying that the Federal Reserve will most likely halt rate hikes as inflation trends downward. He anticipates finishing 2024 with rates below 6%.

This will spark a mid-year surge in real estate activity. The momentum is expected to carry into the third and fourth quarters, culminating in a robust finish with approximately 4.6 million sales—a remarkable 20% increase. Looking ahead to 2025, Buffini envisions a decade-high spring selling season with a solid 15% growth for the year.

High Rents Urge Potential Buyers into The Market

The impact of rising rents adds another layer to the narrative, making the prospect of homeownership even more appealing. This pent-up demand from potential buyers, including the 72 million millennials in the United States is one of the driving forces of Buffini’s positive predictions.

With the average age of first-time homebuyers at 35, an estimated 45.5 million individuals are primed to enter the market in 2024 as rates become more favorable.

“Rents have been the single biggest contributor to inflation, not gas prices, not food prices — rents,” Buffini states. “Now, they’ve stabilized, but rent is extremely high. The demand to buy has never been higher. People want to get in the game.”

The Prediction: Buffini's forecasts hint at a bustling market, spurred by rate cuts and rising sales, drawing interest from both millennials and others keen on moving, with family closeness as the primary incentive.

Buffini's advice guides buyers and sellers through the exciting possibilities in Sacramento's real estate market. For more personalized local insights, connect with our team as we navigate the promising year ahead in 2024.

Sources Cited:

“Home Sales Are Expected to Soar in These California Cities Next Year.” https://ktla.com/news/california/home-sales-are-expected-to-soar-next-year-in-these-california-cities/#:~:text=Five%20metro%20areas%20are%20predicted,%25)%20and%20Sacramento%20(10.3%25) . Dec 5, 2023.
“Brian Buffini’s 2024 Bold Predictions: Lower Rates to Fuel Pent-Up Demand.” https://blog.buffiniandcompany.com/brian-buffinis-bold-predictions-for-2024-lower-rates-to-fuel-a-pent-up-demand/ . Dec. 11, 2023.

What Happened in Sacramento in 2023: Real Estate, Events & More!

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 19:40:29 GMT

And just like that, 2023 has reached its end. While this year held its fair share of surprises, it’s important to look back on all the lessons we’ve learned and prepare for the future.

Without further ado, here are some notable things that happened in the Sacramento region in 2023—and ways you can prepare for a new exciting year ahead:

Steady Home Prices

In 2023, home prices kept their upward momentum despite a slow in home sales. Even as the market began to cool, buyer demand kept homes from depreciating and maintained homeowner equity within the housing market. While today’s rate of appreciation may not reflect the sky-high percentages from the years prior, there is still an upward trend.

Persistent Inventory Shortage

The imbalance between supply and demand has created a challenge for buyers, contributing to fewer homes available for purchase. One major factor? Sellers enjoying low mortgage rates from previous years are hesitant to move. Combine this with high demand, and it's no wonder buyers are facing fierce competition for the few available properties.

Uncertain Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates have been on a perpetual rollercoaster throughout 2023. The year started off surprisingly optimistic with rates in the mid-fives range. However, a spike occurred in the beginning of February, and the rates have just recently started to cool. The majority of buyers in 2023 were faced with a difficult decision—buy now, or wait for the rates to drop.

What will happen when rates drop into the 5.5%-6% range? Expect all those buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines to flood the market.

Our advice—slip into the market now while the competition is still low. You don’t want to get swept away in another multiple-offer war zone. Reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team to come up with a strategy to get you into a home before the market picks up.

In other news . . .

March Madness Came to Sacramento!

College basketball fans got a special treat this year! Sacramento hosted the first- and second-round games of the 2023 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship tournament at Golden 1 Center. Downtown was buzzing with activity and excitement this past March as we all cheered on our favorite teams.

Farm-to-Fork Festival’s 10th Anniversary

Sacramento featured its 10th annual Farm-to-Fork Festival in 2023. Over a decade of delicious food, amazing vendors, and market goodies fit for royalty, it has been such a treat watching this festival grow over the years—and the 10th annual festival certainly did not disappoint. Cheers to many more farm-to-fork celebrations in the future!

Real Producers Magazine Feature

This year, Sherri was featured in the Sacramento Real Producers Magazine . This editorial features the top agents in the area, and Sherri was asked to be their “cover girl” during the summer to celebrate her well-earned success in the Sacramento real estate world. It’s always nice to be recognized for the time and dedication our team invests in our community.

We Added an Agent to Our Growing Team!

Our team is growing! This year we welcomed a new real estate agent, David LeBoeuf, to our team. David is a seasoned professional with 10+ years of experience in the industry and a proven track record of success. He’s already helped over 150 families reach their real estate goal and we can’t wait to see how many more lives he impacts!

We’ve had quite the 2023! However, we’re excited to see what the new year has to offer. Make sure to keep in touch with our team if you want to stay up to date with Sacramento’s 2024 real estate market and local community.

Gratitude Gathering 2023

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 00:43:22 GMT

This year we switched things up a bit and added a “Sip and Shop” event as part of our Gratitude Gathering. It was so fun visiting with all of our amazing clients as they enjoyed the beautiful home décor items at The Shop in Granite Bay and checked a few items off their holiday shopping list! The delectable 12 foot grazing board was enjoyed by all, with a special thanks to Emilie at GUIDE Real Estate who also runs Vibrant Palate! This time of year is such a wonderful opportunity for us to share our gratitude with our clients! With their help, we were also able to make a significant donation to the Twin Lakes Food Bank to support their Thanksgiving Food Drive. Thanks also goes to our fabulous Co-Host and one of our preferred lenders, Cindi Taylor of Big Valley Mortgage.

Benefits of Selling in a Low-Inventory Market

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 19:24:00 GMT

Hello, Sacramento homeowners! If you've been thinking about selling your home, now might be the perfect time. The nation is still facing an inventory shortage and there are ways sellers can take advantage of the current state of the market.

The Sherri Patterson Team is here to shed some light on the benefits of listing your home in our current market and how you can make the best strategic decisions.

Increased Demand = Higher Sales Price

In a market with low inventory, the demand for homes often outweighs the available supply. This heightened demand can lead to increased competition among buyers, ultimately driving up property prices. Sellers can benefit from this dynamic by strategically pricing their homes to encourage multiple offers.

A Faster Sale Process

With fewer homes available, buyers face limited options which can expedite the sales process (homes tend to spend less time on the market when there is low-inventory). If you're looking for a streamlined selling experience, taking advantage of the current low inventory is a wise choice.

Buy The Home You Really Want!

If you're planning to sell your home to move up to a larger property or downsize, now is a great time to make that transition. Selling in a high-demand, low-supply environment can help you secure a strong sales price for your current home.

But what about finding a new home? Believe it or not, now is actually a good time to buy. Yes, rates are high, but we believe a drop is coming soon. If you can get into your next home now, before that drop occurs, you may be able to time things so that you beat the increased competition and have more negotiating power as a buyer.

Plus, you can always refinance when rates drop or negotiate a buydown to help offset the costs.

Listing your home in a low-inventory real estate market can open up a world of opportunities for sellers. From maximizing property values to enjoying a faster and more favorable sales process—the benefits go on and on.

So, if you're thinking about making a move, The Sherri Patterson Team is here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to us today to make the most of today’s market!

6 Ways to Give Back to the Sacramento Community

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 23:35:20 GMT

November is the season of giving, and the Sherri Patterson Team firmly believes in supporting the Greater Sacramento Area. Our city thrives when we come together to support one another, so we want to help you spread the love! Here are 6 simple ideas to get you started.

1. Participate in Food & Clothing Drives

By contributing to food and clothing drives, we can provide materials for basic needs to those who are struggling in our community. Donations go a long way in alleviating hunger and providing warm clothing during the colder months.

Tip : Y ou can join us in supporting the Twin Lakes Food Bank by dropping donations off at the following locations by November 15th!

The Shop: 8701 Auburn Folsom Rd, Granite Bay, CA
Our Office: 50 Iron Point Circle, Suite #140 Folsom, CA

The Central Downtown Food Basket is also hosting an event for Giving Tuesday (November 28th). Check out their website to learn more about ways you can contribute.

2. Give Your Time to Neighbors or Local Church Organizations

Offer your time and assistance to neighbors or local church organizations. Whether it's helping with chores, running errands, or providing companionship, your acts of kindness can greatly impact the lives of those around you and strengthen the fabric of our community.

3. Donate Blood

The American Red Cross is currently facing a severe blood shortage, making blood donations a critical way to give back. Your blood provides a vital resource for those in need of medical treatment, emergencies, and surgeries. It's a simple yet incredibly impactful way to make a difference in our community.

4. Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Extend a helping hand to our furry friends by volunteering at an animal shelter. RedRover is a local shelter that can always use assistance from animal-lovers. Whether it's fostering, walking, or assisting with daily tasks, your efforts are always appreciated.

5. Send Care Packages to U.S. Troops Abroad

Move America Forward is a Sacramento-based organization where you can send care packages to troops stationed overseas. These packages provide comfort and a reminder of home to those serving our country. Expressing gratitude and offering a touch of comfort can make a world of difference to our brave service members.

Here’s how Move America Forward made a difference on 9/11 this year.

6. Support Urban Forestry

Contribute to Sacramento’s urban forestry efforts through organizations like California ReLeaf and Sacramento Tree Foundation . By supporting tree planting and conservation initiatives, you can help enhance the environment, improve air quality, and promote a greener, healthier community for all.

There are countless ways to give back to the community, so make sure to research any other Sacramento organizations that speak to you. Our team will always encourage curious minds and giving hearts when it comes to supporting our community.

We’re more than just your real estate team—we’re your connection to all things Sacramento!

Sacramento Home Buying Tips for Medical Professionals

sherri@sherripatterson.com (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 22:19:03 GMT

House hunting is often a time-consuming activity for any buyer, but medical professionals don’t have much free time to spare. If you’re a medical student or practicing physician who’s planning to relocate to Sacramento, our team of real estate experts have some tips to make your home buying journey as smooth as possible.

1. Get Your Documents Organized

The first step in any home buying journey is to get your financial ducks in a row. For medical professionals, this means having your documents organized and ready for the mortgage application process. Lenders typically require proof of income, tax returns, and employment verification, but here are a few more documents that might come in handy:

Proof of identification
Two years’ worth of tax returns and W2s
Three months of statements for checking, savings and brokerage accounts
Proof of residency, if you’re matched to a residency program
Debt statements for student loans, credit cards, and auto loans
The source of your down payment, in certain scenarios

Having these documents readily available will expedite the mortgage approval process, putting you one step closer to your dream home.

2. Get Pre-Approved

Before you start shopping for homes, it’s crucial to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This step not only gives you a clear idea of your budget, but it also makes you a more attractive buyer to sellers. Pre-approval shows that you're serious about buying, and it can give you an edge in competitive housing markets.

3. Work with a Real Estate Professional

Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, especially if you're relocating to a new city/state for work. That's where The Sherri Patterson Team comes in. We can assist with long-distance showings and provide valuable insights into your new destination. Sacramento is becoming quite the medical hub, and our team has close connections with Sutter Medical Group, Dignity Health, UC Davis, and Kaiser Permanente.

4. Narrow Down Your Preferred Neighborhoods

As a medical professional, you may have a busy and unpredictable work schedule. When looking for your next home, consider its proximity to your workplace and any healthcare facilities you might frequent. A shorter commute can make a big difference in your daily life. As your local Sacramento experts, we'll help you narrow down neighborhoods that fit your needs and preferences.

5. Address Needs vs. Wants

It's easy to get caught up in the nitty-gritty of house hunting, so try to save time by distinguishing your home needs and wants. Identify your must-haves and prioritize them. This approach helps you stay focused on finding a home that suits your practical needs rather than getting distracted by features that might not be essential.

6. Keep ROI in Mind

As a medical professional, you understand the importance of planning for the future. When buying a home, it's crucial to keep the potential return on investment (ROI) in mind. Medical professionals often face job changes or relocations, so consider the resale value of your home. Invest wisely to ensure that when the time comes to sell, you can do so quickly and profitably.

Buying a home as a medical professional may have its unique challenges, but with the right approach and guidance, it can be a smooth process. The Sherri Patterson Team is here to support you every step of the way. We understand your particular needs and are dedicated to helping you find the perfect home in Sacramento. Contact us today, and let's make your dream of homeownership a reality!

10th Annual Harvest Fest

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:16:30 GMT

This fun, family event is always our biggest event of the year and this year topped them all! In addition to our amazing Face Painters, Caricature Artists, Professional Photographer and Critter Lady, this year we added a Wandering Magician. Special thanks to our sponsors that donated amazing raffle prizes this year. Of course, we could not have done it without the help and planning assistance of our Co-Sponsor, Home Cort Advantage of Guild Mortgage.

7 Halloween Family-Friendly Events in Sacramento

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:37:55 GMT

Halloween is just around the corner, and Sacramento is ready to celebrate with a variety of local events! Perfect for all members of every family, check out our curated list of Sacramento’s best Halloween activities:

1. Trick or Treat at the Sacramento Children's Museum

Date: October 31st, 2023

Location: Sacramento Children's Museum

Bring your little ghouls and goblins to the Sacramento Children's Museum for an evening of trick-or-treating. At this free event, your little ones can expect free candy giveaways, toys, special guests, games, and crafts.

2. Kid's Costume Contest at the Amphitheater

Date: October 28th, 2023

Location: Historic Folsom Amphitheater

It’s time to let the kiddos flaunt their stuff at the Historic Folsom Amphitheater’s annual costume contest. This spooktacular event is split into five different age groups and requires a $5 entry fee. If you love to dress to impress, sign-up today!

3. Kid-Cuterie Halloween Workshop

Date: October 22nd, 2023

Location: Vintage Soul in Old Town Elk Grove

Unleash your inner chef at the Kid-Cuterie Halloween Workshop in Old Town Elk Grove. At this class, you’ll create spooky and delicious treats while learning some kitchen skills. It's a hands-on, flavorful Halloween experience!

4. 2023 Winters Spooktacular Fun Run and Costume Contest

Date: October 29th, 2023

Location: Rotary Park

Get active and celebrate Halloween at the 2023 Winters Spooktacular Fun Run. Dress up in your best costume and tie your running shoes, because this fun run/costume contest is sure to be a blast. With distances ranging from a 1-Mile Monster Dash to a 10K, get out and enjoy the Sacramento air with this family-friendly activity.

5. Paints and Pints Halloween Session | Family Friendly!

Date: October 18th, 2023

Location: Porchlight Brewing Co.

Combine creativity and tasty drinks at the Paints and Pints Halloween event. This evening features a family-friendly painting session while sipping on delightful beverages (non-alcoholic options, of course). Make sure to snag your tickets soon!

6. Safe & Super Halloween

Date: October 14th, 2023

Location: Fairytale Town

Fairytale Town is throwing their 37th annual Halloween extravaganza for the whole family. It’s the perfect place to practice your trick-or-treating techniques before the big night—featuring treat stations, a costume parade, hand-on activities, and lots of spooky fun!

7. Dark Chocolate Covered Apples Workshop

Date: October 26th, 2023

Location: Davis Food Co-op Teaching Kitchen

In this family-friendly workshop, kids will have a blast dipping apples in dark chocolate and decorating them with all sorts of spooky toppings. It's a sweet Halloween treat-making adventure that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Make this Halloween season a memorable one by participating in these exciting family-friendly events across Sacramento. Whether it's trick-or-treating, costume contests, or creative workshops, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

And if you’re on the hunt for more local activities, make sure to check out other blogs for all-things Sacramento.

Happy Halloween! ��

What’s New in Sacramento Real Estate: Inventory, Interest Rates & Affordability

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:30:13 GMT

Welcome to fall! With the changing seasons we also typically see a shift in real estate, and this year is no exception. The buzz on Sacramento’s streets these days is a lot of fear and uncertainty surrounding the housing market.

Home prices are high, mortgage rates keep climbing and affordability is at an all-time low. These factors combined are creating a pretty significant slowdown in sales.

Now, it’s important to note that a dip in sales this time of year is completely normal. We typically do see less people list their home over the holidays and buyers tend to hold off on searching as well. However, this year feels extra slow due to so many buyers and sellers waiting for a drop in something (rates, home prices, inflation, etc.) to make a move.

If you’re one of the many who fall into that camp, lean into your real estate team for guidance (aka The Sherri Patterson Team!) We’re here to hold your hand and guide you through the ups and downs of the market and give you a little light at the end of the tunnel.

Keep reading to learn more about our current market and how it impacts you!

Sellers

Alright sellers, here’s the recap of what’s going on with your side of the market:

INVENTORY SHORTAGE = HIGH HOME PRICES

We’re not new to this idea, right? After such a hot market over the last few years, we didn’t expect to face the same inventory shortage. However, this lack of supply isn’t from a pandemic or restricted building materials— but sellers unwilling to list.

Homeowners are starting to get that sinking feeling that their “starter home” might be a little more permanent than they thought. The reason? The insanely low mortgage rate they locked-in back in 2021.

Those 3% rates have bumped up to 8% and this has resulted in—once again—another shortage of inventory as sellers who would typically list are deciding to stay put for now.

Sellers, this is still your time to shine!

The lack of competition is raising the price of homes, so you could still get top dollar on that starter home! And if you’re worried about how to afford a new place with these high mortgage rates—if you can swing it, we highly recommend creating a plan to buy your home now and refinance once the rates start to drop.

Economists are telling us that they will. Perhaps not tonight, tomorrow, or even by the end of the year—but they’ll slowly creep back down. And once they do? Expect a buyer frenzy that you just narrowly avoided.

One final note for sellers… there is a smaller pool of buyers out there. It’s crucial you trust your agent when it comes to pricing your home and be open to giving buyers concessions if needed.

Buyers

We know that the housing market is looking a little bleak for buyers at the moment. The reason?

HIGH MORTGAGE RATES + HIGH HOME PRICES = DIFFICULTY AFFORDING A HOME

*Home prices have remained steady with no major dip this year.

Everyone in the industry is like a fish on a hook, waiting to get reeled in by the Feds’ decision to lower the mortgage rates. When will it happen? How long will we have to wait? Why isn’t inflation decreasing?

We’re tired of waiting, too—we promise. But we have some hopeful tips that might lift your housing market spirits: Marry the home, date the rate

There’s a good chance you might have heard this saying before. It’s a strategy that works great for some, but not all buyers in the current market.

The concept? Don’t wait until the rates go down. Right now, there are very few buyers in the market, so the competition is lower than it has been in years. However, once those rates start to drop, every buyer on the block will flock to what little inventory we have left.

So, to avoid this intense competition, buy a home now, possibly include a buydown and refinance once the rates adjust.

There are quite a few programs that can assist with the affordability of your home until the rates decrease. If this sounds like a good plan for you, reach out to our team today! We’d love to get the ball rolling and strategize how to get you your dream home—without the competition.

Final Thoughts

This fall presents an opportune moment for both buyers and sellers in the Sacramento real estate market. Buyers can take advantage of more negotiation power and reduced competition. While sellers can benefit from low inventory and high home prices.

There are some challenges to the market, but our team is skilled at coming up with creative, win-win scenarios that will help you navigate these obstacles and come out on top! If you're ready to make a move, don't hesitate to reach out to The Sherri Patterson Team for expert guidance and support throughout your real estate journey.

Apple Hill Fall Bucket List: Orchards, Wineries & More

ops@sherripatterson.net (Mary Hillyer) — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 18:29:59 GMT

Fall is in the air, and if you live in the Greater Sacramento Area, there's one place you absolutely can't miss: Apple Hill . Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, a visit to Apple Hill should be at the top of your fall bucket list. From apple picking to pumpkin patches, The Sherri Patterson Team is your guide to the top activities that will make the fall season truly unforgettable.

1. Apple-Picking

Kick off your Apple Hill adventure with the timeless tradition of apple picking. Wander through the picturesque orchards and select the juiciest apples straight from the trees. From sweet to tart to tangy, you'll find a variety of apples perfect for pies, crisps, and even snacking.

2. Fresh Baked Treats

There’s nothing better than the scent of freshly baked treats at Apple Hill's bakeries and cafes. When you visit, make sure to indulge in warm apple fritters, delectable pies, and mouthwatering cinnamon rolls that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Feel free to enjoy your treats amidst the picturesque orchard landscapes or take them home to share with loved ones.

3. Pumpkin Patches

It wouldn’t be fall without a visit to the pumpkin patch! At Apple Hill, make sure to navigate your way through charming pumpkin patches that offer an array of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. Whether you're searching for the perfect pumpkin to carve, paint, or simply decorate your doorstep, Apple Hill's pumpkin patches have something for everyone.

4. Artisanal Shopping

There are so many local trinkets and treasure at Apple Hill. Make sure to stop by the artisanal shops and markets that showcase a wide range of local goods. From handmade crafts to specialty foods, you'll find plenty of goodies that capture the charm of Apple Hill.

5. Scenic Hayrides and Wagon Tours

Experience the beauty of Apple Hill's landscapes with a scenic hayride or wagon tour. As you journey through rolling hills and orchards, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time or into a fall wonderland.

6. Family-Friendly Activities

Time to make those fall-time family memories! Apple Hill is the perfect destination for a family outing of all ages. Enjoy activities like corn mazes, petting zoos, and even pony rides that will entertain children of all ages. (Tip: Looking for something for the parents? Check out #7)

7. Sip and Savor Local Flavors

Discover the rich flavors of Apple Hill's wineries and tasting rooms. Here, you can sample locally produced wines and ciders that perfectly complement the fall season. Take a moment to relax, sip, and savor the unique tastes of the region.

8. Fall Crafts and DIY Fun

Let’s get crafty. Unleash your creativity with hands-on fall crafts and DIY projects. Whether you're painting pumpkins, crafting wreaths, or assembling festive décor, Apple Hill's craft workshops offer a fun way to personalize your fall experience.

These activities offer just a glimpse into the magic and charm of the fall season, so make sure you give Apple Hill a try. Embrace the spirit of fall, create cherished memories, and make this season one to remember for years to come.

Top Neighborhoods in Sacramento for Physicians

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 18:13:28 GMT

Are you a physician looking for the perfect neighborhood to call home in Sacramento?

You’re in the right spot! The Sherri Patterson Team is here to guide you through the top five most desirable neighborhoods near major hospitals. Whether you're affiliated with Sutter, Kaiser, UC Davis, or any of our amazing medical facilities, these communities are excellent places to set down roots.

1. East Sacramento

Not far from both Sutter Medical Center and UC Davis Medical Center, East Sacramento is a hotspot for physicians seeking a blend of charm and convenience. The tree-lined streets and historic architecture create an enchanting atmosphere, while the neighborhood's proximity to hospitals ensures you're never far from work. Here, you can explore the local boutiques, cafes & parks, or take a leisurely stroll to unwind after a busy day.

2. Land Park

If you’re looking for a tranquil retreat without sacrificing accessibility, Land Park is your destination. A short commute to both Sutter and UC Davis Medical Centers, this neighborhood offers spacious homes surrounded by the lush greenery of William Land Park. This picturesque park is Sacramento’s very own “Central Park” and offers the perfect environment for unwinding by the duck pond or taking a bike ride on the scenic trails.

3. Midtown

For physicians who thrive in a social scene, Midtown is a vibrant and dynamic choice. This urban neighborhood is close to Sutter Medical Center and offers the best of the best when it comes to Sacramento dining, entertainment, and cultural options. The lively atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to work, makes Midtown an exciting option for those seeking a modern lifestyle with a dash of city energy.

4. Curtis Park

Curtis Park, adjacent to the bustling hub of Midtown, provides a quieter escape while still a short drive from Kaiser Permanente Medical Center. With its historic homes, beautiful tree canopies, and the charming Curtis Park itself, this neighborhood offers a close-knit community atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy walks, community events, and a wonderful sense of belonging.

5. Elmhurst

For those affiliated with UC Davis Medical Center, Elmhurst is a hidden gem. This residential area offers a peaceful ambiance while keeping you within reach of the hospital. Enjoy the comfort of suburban living with well-kept streets, friendly neighbors, and easy access to nearby parks. Elmhurst is a true oasis for physicians seeking a retreat after a demanding day.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we understand that finding the right neighborhood as a physician is not just about location, but also about the lifestyle and community you desire. We're here to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your professional and personal aspirations. Contact us today to explore these neighborhoods and discover the ideal place for you and your family to call home in Sacramento.

Sherri Patterson on the Cover of Sacramento Real Producers!

ops@sherripatterson.net (Mary Hillyer) — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 05:06:19 GMT

Sacramento Real Producers Magazine – August 2023

Have you heard? Sherri is on the cover of Sacramento Real Producers Magazine!

The article is a deep dive on Sherri's personal story, her real estate career and how she specialized in Physician Relocation. We're so proud of her for being hand-selected to be featured in this magazine and grateful to our clients who have been on this journey with us (we wouldn't be here without you)!

You can read the full story here: https://issuu.com/sacrealproducers/docs/aug_2023_sacramento_real_producers

Leatherby’s Ice Cream Social

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 21:32:28 GMT

We love ice cream but we love our clients even more! Events are a really fun opportunity for us to connect with our clients and their families and thank them for supporting us. We have loved being a part of each of your lives, helping you with your real estate needs and appreciate you referring us to your friends and family! Special thanks to our co-sponsor, Traci Ghilardi from Delta Lending, one of our preferred lenders.

Sacramento Real Estate: 2023 Mid-Year Market Predictions

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 20:04:36 GMT

“What’s going on in Sacramento real estate?”

That is a question we get asked daily! Now that summer vacations are coming to a close and we’re all settling into our back-to-school routines, many are beginning to look at the market again and reevaluate their plans.

This year has been interesting, to say the least, and the shifts from the fast-paced pandemic to current day have left homeowners with more confusion than clarity.

We know the BIG question on everyone's mind is, “What should we expect moving forward with the housing market?”

So, let’s unpack that…

The Sherri Patterson Team belongs to the largest real estate coaching company in the world! Industry expert, Brian Buffini, studies the real estate market and is usually right-on with future predictions.

We recently attended a webinar: Brian Buffini's Bold Predictions 2023: Mid-Year Update , where he interviewed David Stevens who is the former CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association. The conversation was focused on interest rates, inflation and where the market will be heading in 2024 and beyond.

( Watch the replay for more information.)

1. Nationwide Equity is High

For those of you waiting for the market to crash before embarking on your real estate journey, you might be on the sidelines for a while. U.S. home equity rates are still lingering at record-highs, and there is no foreclosure crisis in sight. Eighty percent of current mortgages have a rate of 5% or lower ( FHFA ) , so homeowners are determined to keep their homes and maintain their rate.

2. Sacramento Rent Prices are Rising

With so many of us focused on the housing market, it’s common to turn a blind eye to the renting world. Even as home prices increase, the price of renting is not far behind. There are nearly 3 million households that are making over $150,000 a year that are still renting. ( The Wallstreet Journal ) Renting a home or apartment in a desirable area can be almost as expensive as a monthly mortgage. So, don’t send your money down the drain paying a landlord’s rent—invest in your own property instead!

Pro Tip: We suggest buying your dream Sacramento home when the time is right—renting your rate—and refinancing once the rates come down. To learn more about this method and if it’s right for you, contact our team to talk with an agent.

3. Mortgage Rates Are Predicted to Drop to the 5.5% Range!

The topic everyone is waiting for—when will the mortgage rates drop? Experts predict the mortgage rates to gently ease through the rest of the year, rolling into 2024.

“Be prepared to jump on a dip in rates.” – Robert Frick | Corporate Economist, Navy Federal Credit Unio n

“With the rate of inflation decelerating, rates should gently decline over the course of 2023.” – Sak Khater | Freddie Mac Chief Economist

“Mortgage rates will drop—with the 30-year fixed mortgage rate progressively falling to 6.0% this year and to 5.6% in 2024.” – Lawrence Yun | National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist

“Our forecast is for a 30-year mortgage rate to be closer to about 5.5% by the end of this year and drop a little lower next year.” – Michael Fratantoni | Chief Economist & Senior Vice President of Research, Mortgage Bankers Association

However, the current market is at a standstill due to a continued shortage of inventory. Current homeowners are hesitant to enter the market due to today’s increased rates, but this is predicted to change once the rates lower to a more digestible percentage. Experts are predicting the market to kick back into gear once the rate hits the mid 5 percents.

At the end of the day, the housing market is always dependent on supply and demand. Sacramento’s inventory is slowly making a comeback, but there is still a desire to move to our community that will continue to boost buyer demand. If you have questions about the market or would like to discuss the future of your real estate goals, The Sherri Patterson Team is always here to assist you with your housing needs. Whether you’re hoping to beat the buyer wave or need some guidance on pricing your home, we are here to help!

Sacramento Summer Send-Off: 8 Must-Do Activities Before Fall

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 19:50:45 GMT

As we simmer down to the final days of summer, it's the perfect time to squeeze every ounce of fun out of Sacramento's radiant summer season. From outdoor adventures to quality time with family, The Sherri Patterson Team has a curated list of the top 8 end-of-summer activities you simply cannot miss!

River Tubing on the American River Parkway

Grab ( or rent ) a tube and drift along the gentle current of the American River Parkway. This relaxing ride allows you to bask in the beauty of the lush scenery and let your worries float away.

Whitewater Rafting or Kayaking

Looking for some water adventure? Challenge yourself with some heart-pumping Class II and Class III rapids on the American River. But make sure to brace yourself for an adrenaline rush that'll make your heart race and leave you craving more.

Explore Old Sacramento

Discover the historic district's charm and indulge in a delectable post-river feast. From mouthwatering BBQ to farm-to-fork delights, the restaurants here will satisfy your cravings and widen your palette.

Discover Tower Bridge

Take a leisurely stroll across the iconic Tower Bridge and take in the panoramic views of Sacramento's skyline. Here, you can capture the perfect Instagram-worthy shot and create lasting memories of your summer adventures.

Explore the Crocker Art Museum

Dive into the vibrant world of art at the renowned Crocker Art Museum . Make sure to wander through its captivating exhibits and admire a diverse collection that spans centuries and cultures. From classic masterpieces to contemporary works, this cultural gem will leave you inspired and immersed in the beauty of artistic expression.

Picnic at McKinley Park

Nothing beats the season like a summer picnic! Gather your loved ones, pack a scrumptious picnic basket, and head to McKinley Park. This Sacramento staple is the best place to lounge under the shade of towering trees, play a game of frisbee, or simply unwind with a good book—summer relaxation at its finest.

Sacramento River Cats Game

Goooo River Cats! Join local baseball fans at a Sacramento River Cats game. Cheer for our home team, indulge in classic ballpark snacks, and revel in the excitement of America's favorite pastime.

Sunset Cruise on the Sacramento River

Want to end the summer on a romantic note? Embark on a serene sunset cruise along the picturesque Sacramento River. Soak in the breathtaking colors in the sky, savor a romantic moment, and bid farewell to summer in style.

As you soak up the final moments of summer in Sacramento, remember that our team of expert real estate agents is here to assist you in finding your dream home. Whether you're a local looking for a change of scenery or a newcomer falling in love with the city, The Sherri Patterson Team is ready to guide you on your real estate journey.

Sherri’s Neighborhood Popsicle Event

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:24:10 GMT

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream! Especially when it’s over 100 in Sacramento! We loved hosting 60+ of Sherri’s neighbors and cooling down with a sweet treat out of this adorable pink ice cream truck! Thanks so much to the mom/daughter team that own The Meltdown!

Physician Relocation: What to Know Before Making a Move to Sacramento

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 18:18:12 GMT

Relocating to a new region can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you're a physician.

Even though the city of Sacramento offers plenty of opportunities for medical professionals, the relocation process can be overwhelming when you’re already knee-deep in a medical program.

That's why the Sherri Patterson Team is here to help! Keep reading for valuable relocation tips to help you make the move to Sacramento.

Start Your Search Early

When planning a relocation to Sacramento, it's crucial to begin your search well in advance. Sacramento's real estate market can be competitive, and finding the right home that suits your preferences and needs may take time. By starting your search early, you'll have a better chance of securing the perfect property and avoiding last-minute compromises.

Understand the Local Market

Familiarize yourself with the local real estate market in Sacramento to gain an edge in your search. It’s important to work closely with a knowledgeable Realtor® who specializes in the Sacramento area. Luckily, the Sherri Patterson Team offers community tours to help you get a grasp on the area and neighborhood layouts. We would be happy to be your local tour guide and show you around the city: Contact us today to schedule a tour !

Consider Proximity to Medical Facilities

As a physician, proximity to your future workplace is a crucial factor to consider when relocating. The Sherri Patterson Team works closely with multiple hospitals and clinics in the area (such as Sutter Medical Group, Dignity Health, UC Davis and Kaiser Permanente), and we would be happy to help you find a home in the right area. It’s important to prioritize areas that offer convenient access to your workplace; minimizing your commute time can significantly enhance your work-life balance and overall well-being.

Connect with Local Vendors

To ease the transition and make the most of your relocation, consider connecting with local professionals. This includes not only real estate agents, but also other service providers such as moving companies, contractors, and utility providers. Our team is connected with a network of local professionals and would be happy to recommend the best services in the business.

Financial Planning & Physician Loans

Before finalizing your move to Sacramento, it's essential to assess your budget and plan accordingly. Consider factors such as the cost of living, property taxes, HOA fees, and any other expenses specific to the area. If you’re looking for financial aid during your move, The Sallie Mae® Medical Residency and Relocation Loan is a perfect option for 4th year medical students looking to relocate for their residency.

Our team also works with lenders who have specific loan products for residents, doctors and practicing physicians. Reach out to us to learn about how a Physician Loan could benefit you!

Embrace the Sacramento Lifestyle

Beyond its thriving medical community, Sacramento offers a rich and vibrant lifestyle. Take the time to explore the city's cultural, recreational, and culinary offerings. Engage in local events, visit farmers markets (we are the farm-to-fork capital of the country!), and connect with community organizations. Embracing the Sacramento lifestyle will not only enhance your personal life but also help you establish roots and feel more at home in your new city.

By following these moving tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful relocation. Remember, a reliable real estate agent will be your greatest ally throughout the process, and the Sherri Patterson Team would be happy to assist you with this exciting transition. Good luck with your move, and welcome to Sacramento!

Why The Current Sacramento Real Estate Market May Be the Strongest in Our Lifetime

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 18:01:42 GMT

Have you checked in with the housing market lately? Real estate is booming this summer, and it’s important to know that we’re not expecting home prices or demand to take a downturn anytime soon. Despite what you may read in the headlines, the Sacramento real estate market is one of the strongest we’ve seen in years—perhaps even in our lifetime—and The Sherri Patterson Team is here to break down the facts for you.

1. The Mortgage Rates on Existing Homes

Even though the current mortgage rate is sitting higher than it has in the last few years, it’s important to keep the big picture in mind. The Federal Housing Finance Agency ( FHFA ) states that 80% of existing mortgages have a rate below 5%. (That’s a lot of mortgages.) But let’s keep going—the FHFA further states that 50% of mortgages have a rate below 4%.

But what about rumors of a foreclosure crisis? While current buyers are weary of mortgage rates, it’s important to keep in mind that existing homeowners are doing everything they can to keep their current rate. People want to avoid entering the rental market due to rising prices, so they will put in the effort to meet their monthly payments.

2. Homeowner Equity

Ready for some more facts? Roughly two-thirds of homeowners have either paid their mortgage or have 50% equity in their current home. ( Census and ATTOM ) This makes a foreclosure crisis much more unlikely to occur because homeowners have skin in the game. Back in 2008, many people had to walk away from their homes because they owed more than what the home was worth.

Now, homeowners are rolling in equity, a term many real estate professionals call “equity rich.” They’ve already come so far on the journey to owning their home, so they are more driven to make payments and stay afloat.

3. Sale-to-List Price

Are you worried you might not get top dollar for your home now that buyers are thinning out due to rates? Well, this is still a strong seller’s market—roller coaster rates or not. Realtor.com released statistics stating that homes in Sacramento are selling for 101.05% of the asking price as of May 2023. That’s right, homes were selling above asking price a few years ago, and that trend is still going strong. Sacramento is growing and draws demand, so there is no concern for a major drop of pricing in the current housing market.

There’s a lot going on in Sacramento real estate! That’s why we recommend working with an experienced agent who knows how to navigate many types of markets. Call the Sherri Patterson Team to find a real estate agent you can trust!

8 Family-Friendly Hikes Around Lake Tahoe

kat@copykatconsulting.com (Kat Kobzeff-Wells) — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 01:00:31 GMT

If you’re a Sacramento local, then there’s a chance you’ve vacationed at beautiful Lake Tahoe more than once. Not only is it the largest alpine lake in North America, Tahoe’s glistening blue waters and stunning pines are a magical sight that must be experienced in-person!

Here are the top 8 family-friendly hikes for your next Lake Tahoe adventure. P.S. - Did you know the lake's water is the clearest its been in the last 40 years!

1. The Rubicon Trail | South Lake Tahoe | $10 Parking Fee

The Rubicon Trail bridges two beautiful national parks and offers serene views of the Tahoe area. It’s 4.5 miles long one way, so make sure you prepare for a longer hike if you’re planning a round trip. You can expect to see spectacular views of turquoise waters and pine-filled vistas.

A note of caution—this is a fairly popular trail. We recommend visiting on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid tourist crowds.

2. Taylor Creek | South Lake Tahoe | $10 Parking Fee

This creek is located south of Lake Tahoe and features fabulous fall foliage and stunning spring wildflowers. If you visit during the autumn months, keep an eye out for salmon swimming up the creek. While there are multiple trails open year-round, we recommend the Rainbow Trail for kids. It’s a half-mile and pretty flat, but you can check out the other Taylor Creek hikes if you want to challenge yourself.

3. Balancing Rock Trail | South/West Lake Tahoe | $10 Parking Fee

You can expect to see plenty of natural wonders on this hike! Balancing Rock is a great family-friendly trail in D.L. Bliss State Park and offers wonderful rocks to climb on with a large 130-ton rock balancing on a small granite base as the main attraction. There’s plenty for the kiddos to see on this hike, so give it a try on your next Tahoe visit.

4. Eagle Rock Hiking Trail | West Lake Tahoe | Free

This is a shorter hike that climbs steadily but offers a fantastic view of the lake as a reward. Overall, you can expect this trail to take about 20 minutes from beginning to end, making it the perfect length for kids and won’t require piggyback rides. However, there isn’t any designated parking, so keep an eye for cars parked on the road opposite from the lake.

5. High Camp Loop at Squaw | West of Lake Tahoe | $8-$34 for Tram Ride

Squaw Valley is a wonderful location to visit in the Tahoe area. Take the aerial tram to High Camp to visit a beautiful mountain top with plenty of activities for families ranging from outdoor games to an Olympic Museum. There are many trails up here in High Camp, but we recommend the High Camp Loop that’s 1.25 miles but mostly flat for the majority of the trail.

6. Shirley Canyon Trail | West of Lake Tahoe | $8-$34 for Tram Ride

This is another High Camp trail located just outside the Village at Squaw. For those of you willing to venture out on a longer path, you can expect to see a waterfall on this 4-mile climb. Some families will stop at the first sign of the waterfall and turn back for a quicker trip.

7. Dolder Nature Trail | West Lake Tahoe | $10 Park Entrance Fee

Are you wanting a hike with serene views but little foot traffic? Give this one a try. This trail is 2 miles and weaves in and out of the forest along the shore of Lake Tahoe—but there’s a reason why it’s considered a nature walk. This “hike” remains flat for the majority of the trail, but you can still expect stunning summer wildflowers with very few prying eyes with this best-kept Tahoe secret.

8. Donner Lake | North/West of Lake Tahoe | $5 Park Entrance Fee

For another quiet trail, visit the Donner Trail that stretches from the parking lot to the glistening lake. Not many people venture out to this destination, but it offers wonderful sights to see and an educational exhibit about the history of the Donner Party.

As your Sacramento experts, we’re always happy to provide referrals and recommendations to our clients. From vacation rentals to doctors to painters, we want you to feel not only at home in the Greater Sacramento Area, but to feel like a local. Reach out to our team today for more vacation destinations and recommendations.

10 Tips For First-Time Home Buyers

sherri@sherripatterson.net (Sherri Patterson) — Sat, 27 May 2023 00:47:57 GMT

Are you considering purchasing a home for the very first time?

Are you considering purchasing a home for the very first time? Well, congratulations! Buying a home is not only a great life-achievement but a fantastic investment for your financial future.

However, the process of buying a home isn’t always easy—that’s why we recommend working with a real estate professional to help you along the way. The Sherri Patterson Team is equipped with expert agents who are here to help you navigate the market. From negotiating deals to celebrating accepted offers, our team is here for you every step of the way.

If you’re curious to know what the path to homeownership is like, take a look at our first-time home buyer guide below. We’ve broken down the process to help you anticipate the journey ahead.

1. Determine your budget.

Where’s the best place to start when buying a home? Your finances! Begin by assessing your financial situation—that includes your income, savings, and expenses. This makes it easier to determine how much you can afford to spend on a house, factoring in mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs.

2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage.

Next, consult with multiple lenders to find the best mortgage rates and terms. Pre-approval will help you understand your borrowing capacity and make you a more competitive buyer when you find a home you love. Our team works with multiple lending partners, so we’d be happy to suggest some recommendations.

3. Contact a real estate agent (psst, that’s us!).

Find an experienced and trustworthy real estate agent who specializes in the local market. We have multiple experienced agents on our team, and we would love to find an agent who would be your perfect fit. After that, we will assist you in finding suitable properties, negotiating offers, and guiding you through the buying process.

4. Identify your needs and preferences.

Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves in a home. Consider factors like location, size, number of bedrooms, amenities, and proximity to schools, work, and transportation. It’s nice to know what exactly you’re looking for before house hunting, but be prepared to compromise once you start attending showings.

5. Start house hunting.

Begin the process by utilizing online search engines (we have one embedded in our website), attend open houses, and schedule viewings with your agent. Be sure to take notes and pictures to help you compare and remember the details of each property you visit.

6. Make an offer and negotiate.

Found the perfect home? Now work with your real estate agent to craft a competitive offer based on market value and comparable sales. Be prepared for negotiations with the seller to reach a mutually acceptable price.

7. Conduct thorough inspections.

Once you find a potential home, your agent will assist you with hiring a professional home inspector to assess its condition. This inspection will identify any underlying issues that could affect the value or safety of the property.

8. Secure financing.

Once your offer is accepted, it’s time to finalize your mortgage application with your chosen lender. You’ll need to provide any required documentation and stay in close communication with your lender to ensure a smooth process.

9. Perform due diligence.

Your agent will help you review all relevant documents, such as the property's title, survey, and disclosure statements.

10. Close the deal.

Work with your agent to schedule a closing date with all involved parties. A closing involves reviewing the closing documents and ensures all necessary funds are available. On closing day, it’s time to sign the paperwork, pay the closing costs, and receive the keys to your new home.

How do you feel? Are you ready to get started?

Whether you’re excited to get started or anxious for the road ahead, the Sherri Patterson Team is here with you through it all. Remember, buying a home is a complex process, and it's essential to seek professional advice and assistance whenever needed. Reach out to our team today to get started—we look forward to working with you!

8 Ways to Boost Your Curb Appeal

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 01:54:39 GMT

How would your home’s curb appeal fair in today’s market?

Well, it’s no secret that first impressions go a long way in real estate. Buyers will research homes online and even drive through the neighborhood before committing to a showing. A home’s exterior plays a huge part in someone’s decision to buy your house, and it’s important to pay attention to your curb appeal if you want the best price for your Sacramento home.

If you’re thinking about selling this year, consider these quick curb appeal tips to increase your value.

Paint the Front Door

The front door is the focal point of the home. A great way to refresh your exterior is by applying a fresh coat of paint to your front door. If you choose to change the look of your entryway and want to paint a bold color, make sure to coordinate the hue with the rest of the colors on your house. Also, most exterior paint costs around $35 a gallon, so this is a cost-friendly update that will receive a great return on your investment.

Plant Trees

An established yard with trees and a manicured lawn is always in demand. Make sure your property makes a great first-impression by planting shrubs and trees to boost your home’s curb appeal. It’s best to start small with fast-growing trees (such as a crape myrtle or maple) and to remember to water them often within the first year.

Install Window Boxes

This is a great way to add a pop of color to your home. Whether you want to add flower boxes beneath your windows or along your front porch, make sure to stay on top of your watering and keep the plants healthy. If not, there’s a chance that dying plants will decrease your curb appeal. However, if you don’t want to commit to the planter boxes, you can consider container gardens for the front steps of your porch or the backyard.

Clean and Pressure Wash

Sometimes a good ‘ole cleaning is what your home needs to shine for potential buyers. Before you list your home, it’s a good idea to rent a pressure washer to clean the exterior section of your property that could use a little TLC. Consider spraying the driveway, walkways, fences, gutters, and maybe even the siding to make your home sparkle like new!

Display House Numbers

What’s the point of listing your home if potential buyers can’t find it? A great way to boost curb appeal is to install clear, new house numbers that match the rest of your exterior fixtures. Most numbers can start around $2, but these numbers can also make a great DIY project or Etsy purchase.

Update Existing Light Fixtures

Speaking of new exterior additions, updating your light fixtures is a great way to stay on top of current design trends. However, it’s not always about style. When shopping for new exterior light fixtures, make sure to prioritize functionality as much as fashion. Look for designs that will keep your entryway safe and illuminated that have the same mounting system as your current fixtures.

Clean the Roof and Repair the Gutters

It’s best to check your roof once a year to assess damage or decay. If you don’t have the capacity to climb up to your roof, the Sherri Patterson Team has a list of local professionals who would be happy to help. Make sure to reach out to our team to get connected for an inspection.

Give the Garage Door a Refresh

A garage can take up a large section of the front of your home, so make sure it’s in tip-top shape before listing. Give it a good power wash or a fresh coat of paint to make the exterior of your home clean and inviting. If you want to go the extra mile, consider replacing the hinges and latches to make your door standout.

Bonus Tip : Fill the Stoop or Porch with Greenery

Don’t have an impressive front porch? You can still make your entryway inviting with potted plants and flowers that will offer color to the front of your home. Many buyers want to envision your property as a future home, and an inviting entryway is a great way to start the narrative in their heads.

Preparing your home to go onto the market can be a stressful time. That’s why we recommend talking with your real estate agent to see what updates your home might need to receive better traction with potential buyers. If you’re thinking about making a move, reach out to the Sherri Patterson Team—we’d love to guide you through the listing process!

2023 Upcoming Concerts & Events in Sacramento

kat@copykatconsulting.com (Kat Kobzeff-Wells) — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:40:44 GMT

Are you looking for ways to fill your summer calendar?

Not to worry, the Sherri Patterson Team is your go-to when it comes to upcoming events in Sacramento. Whether you’re ready to break out your cowboy boots to hit the Goldensky Festival or find reservations for a legendary wine tasting, we love our city and are here to keep you updated on all-things fun in Sacramento.

Music Festivals

Who doesn’t love a good music festival? Well, luckily for us, Sacramento will be home to three major festivals over the summer months. Take a look at their lineups to see if your favorite artists are coming to town!

Sacramento's Concerts in the Park (May 5-July 28) –The 30th Annual Concerts in the Park series brings live music to downtown’s Cesar Chavez Plaza on Friday evenings.

Folk on the Farm (June 17th-Sept 9th) - Enjoy live music from all over the country right in the middle of Delfino Farms. Take in the beautiful mountain sunsets while enjoying a glass of Edio wine or Henrietta Stich hard cider. Music is focused on grassroots country, bluegrass, and, of course, Folk.

Sol Blume (August 19th-20th) – Get ready for fun vibes and great music, because Sol Blume is bringing R&B, soul, and hip-hop to Sacramento.

Aftershock (October 5th-8th) – Let’s rock Sacramento! This festival is pulling-in quite a few metalheads with headliners like Avenged Sevenfold, Guns N’ Roses, and Korn.

Goldensky (October 14th-15th) – Alright country fans, it’s your turn for a music festival. This event brought more than 50,000 country lovers together last year, so we are expecting even more boots and cowboy hats to visit Discovery Park this year.

Sacramento's Farmers Markets

Spring is in the air in the Sacramento region, bringing beautiful weather, blooming plants, and one of the largest farmers market scenes in the nation. Visiting one of Sacramento’s farmers markets is the perfect way to experience our region’s bounty of crops. Click here for everything you need to know about Sacramento’s extensive farmers market scene.

Bachata & Salsa Festival | June 22nd-25th

Are you ready to get your hips moving? The Bachata and Salsa Festival features over 60 different dance workshops over a three-day period. Those who attend get the opportunity to learn from internationally renowned instructors who have contributed to the dance community across the world. From live music to parties to dance performances, grab you partner and get ready to salsa!New paragraph

Legends of Wine | September 7th

This wine-tastic night is scheduled to kick off the 10th Annual Farm-to-Fork Festival happening this year. Paying homage to local legends Darnell Corti and David Berkley, you can expect an array of wines local to the Sacramento region. Grab your tickets today!

Tower Bridge Dinner | September 10th

Join the tradition and dine on the iconic Tower Bridge in Sacramento. This is an unforgettable experience that features meals from world-renowned chefs and locally sourced ingredients. Trust us, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Farm-to-Fork Festival | September 22nd-23rd

This year marks the 10th anniversary for the Farm-to-Fork Festival, and you can expect nothing short of spectacular from this year’s vendors and exhibits. We absolutely love this festival and how it honors Sacramento’s agriculture and the people who craft stunning meals for our community. Make sure to get your tickets now to one of the most anticipated events of the year!

IRONMAN California | October 22nd

There’s nothing that makes you feel more out of shape than watching an Ironman pass through your town—or rather, nothing that makes you more motivated! Come cheer on some of California’s top athletes as they swim, bike, and run across our Sacramento sights.

See any events that pique your interest? Let us know if you decide to attend any! There’s a good chance we’ll see you there.

Also, make sure to reach out to the Sherri Patterson Team when it comes to all things Sacramento. Whether it’s real estate, restaurants, or summer events—we are your local guide!

Benefits of Working with a DRS Agent When Relocating to Sacramento

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 21:14:44 GMT

Are you a medical student or working physician looking to buy or sell a home? We know that busy professionals don’t always have the time to research the perfect real estate agent—that’s where the DRS network comes in.

DRS is the only network of real estate professionals endorsed by the largest association of doctors and doctors in training—including the AMA, AMSA, and SOMA. This network provides a specialized list of vetted agents to allow a quick and easy method for finding the best real estate fit for you.

The Sherri Patterson Team is one of the DRS trusted teams located in Sacramento and has dedicated 17+ years to aiding the medical field with their real estate needs. If you’re looking for first-class service when it comes to relocating to the Sacramento area, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about our team and how we can help physicians just like you!

1. Community Knowledge

Overall, our team has a combined 50+ years of area expertise in the Greater Sacramento region. We are always happy to schedule a community tour to share our knowledge about the best schools, the top restaurants, and our favorite outdoor activities. We look forward to introducing you to our vibrant community, and we’d be happy to connect you to our network of local professionals that you can trust.

2. Hospital Connections

Because we specialize in physician relocation, we have established relationships with recruiters at the top hospitals within the area—such as Sutter Medical Group, Dignity Health, UC Davis and Kaiser Permanente. We understand the stressors of a medical regime—as well as moving to a new location—and will work diligently to assure your real estate expectations are not only met, but exceeded.

3. Physician Loan Programs

We have partnered with local lenders who have experience working with medical personnel. They make home ownership achievable for physicians despite the trials of student loan debt. Our lenders understand that every client is different, and we will work together to find the best financial program for you.

With the Sherri Patterson Team, our goal is to go above and beyond and anticipate your needs to provide a personalized real estate experience. Our DRS agents are dedicated to assisting physicians find the perfect Sacramento home, as well as selling your property for top dollar so you can move on to the next step in your career.

If you or a physician you know plan on relocating to Sacramento or anticipate moving away from the area, give us a call! Our team is always ready to assist.

Top Restaurants in Sacramento

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 21:01:37 GMT

When we say we’re Sacramento experts, we’re not just talking about the housing market. We love living life to the fullest in this beautiful community of ours, and nothing makes us “fuller” than a night out at our favorite restaurant.

We’ve featured a list of the top restaurants, bakeries, and eateries across the Sacramento Valley—as well as a few new additions to the cuisine scene here in town. Read the recommendations below and let us know if your go-to made the list!

1. West Coast Taco Bar ( 8791 Elk Grove Blvd, Elk Grove, CA & Trucks ) – As one of Yelp’s Top 100 for 2023, this taco truck offers a rotating menu that may be small in size, but packs quite the punch. Locals claim this is one of the best stops for tacos in the Sacramento area.

2. The Kitchen ( 2225 Hurley Way, Sacramento, CA ) – Coming in at #76 on Yelp’s Top 100 for 2023, The Kitchen Restaurant is a Michelin-starred establishment that focuses on the art behind cuisine. Here, guests are encouraged to chat with the chefs and not only enjoy their meals, but the experience as well.

3. Timmy’s Brown Bag ( 451 Main Street, Placerville, CA ) – And finally—our last restaurant on Yelp’s Top 100 for 2023 list, Timmy’s Brown Bag offers a menu rife with deluxe sandwiches and creative twists on classic combinations. An ultimate feel-good comfort food stop.

4. Bodega Kitchen and Cocktails ( 6401 Riverside Blvd . Sacramento, CA ) – Are you up for some Puerto Rican classics? Bodega boasts some of Sacramento’s top tang and flagrantly flavorful Caribbean cuisine.

5. Moonbelly ( 6511 Folsom Blvd. Sacramento, CA ) – A new edition to East Sacramento, this popular bakery offers a delicate array of sourdough and croissant baked goods.

6. Kru Sushi ( 3135 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA )- Splurge on some of Sacramento’s most artfully executed and flavorful Japanese food at this elegant East Sacramento restaurant. Here, you’ll find delicately crafted nigiri and sashimi, plus small plates such as tea-smoked duck kushiyaki and grilled corn with miso butter.

7. Kodaiko Ramen Bar ( 718 K St, Sacramento, CA )– Are you on the hunt for the ultimate ramen bar? Well, Kodaiko serves one of the city’s best bowls of ramen on K Street. Filled to the brim with house-made broth and three-day pork paitan, we promise you won’t be disappointed.

8. Beast & Bounty ( 1701 R St, Sacramento, CA )– This Instagram-worthy eatery is a Michelin-recognized dream for foodies. While we’d happily order their savory pizzas and flavorful sandwiches—Beast & Bounty’s brunch is the real talk of the town.

9. Frank Fat’s ( 806 L St, Sacramento, CA ) – A truly fantastic menu that bridges the gap between Chinese favorites and American classics, Frank Fat’s is a family-run business that serves the best New York steak around.

10. Binchoyaki Izakaya Dining ( 2226 10th St, Sacramento, CA ) – Located in southern downtown that continues to shed its Japantown roots, Binchoyaki introduces rich comfort foods such as bacon fried rice, delectable bowls of ramen, and skewers grilled over white-hot Japanese charcoal.

Sacramento has a vibrant food scene that truly represents the diversity and flavors our city has to offer! Just one of the many perks of living in our amazing area.

TOMLF - Toast the Bold 2023

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 23:30:18 GMT

Our team was honored to help sponsor this event at the historic Officers Club at the Presidio in San Francisco. Proceeds benefit the TOMLF programs and services for the families and children of US Air Force Rescue Heroes who are killed or severely wounded in operational or training missions. We enjoyed the evening with some of our clients who have served in the military, spouses and close friends. TOMLF is one of the charitable organizations that we donate a portion of each home bought or sold with us.

Maximizing Your Property Value: How to Build an ADU in Sacramento County

kat@copykatconsulting.com (Kat Kobzeff-Wells) — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 04:12:25 GMT

Are you feeling a little cramped in your home? Or maybe you're just looking for a way to add some extra income to your pockets? Look no further than building an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU!

These nifty little living spaces offer a range of benefits, from housing family members to providing a rental income stream. But before you dive in, it's important to know the ins and outs of ADU construction in Sacramento County. Don't worry, we've got you covered with this step-by-step guide. So let's get building and add some extra wiggle room to your property.

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary residential unit that is located on the same property as a primary residence. ADUs can be attached or detached from the primary residence and are typically smaller in size. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including housing family members, renting out for extra income, or serving as a home office or studio.

ADUs provide an opportunity for homeowners to increase their property value, generate rental income, and provide additional housing for family members or guests.

They can be designed to be completely separate from the primary residence, with their own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living space. Alternatively, they can be connected to the primary residence and share some amenities, such as a kitchen or laundry room.

How to Build an ADU in Sacramento County

If you live in Sacramento County and are interested in building an ADU on your property, there are several steps you need to take. Here are the general steps you need to follow:

Check Local Regulations: Before starting your ADU project, you need to check the local regulations and guidelines. Sacramento County has specific requirements for ADUs, including zoning requirements, setback requirements, and building codes. You can find this information on the Sacramento County website or by contacting the County Planning and Building Department .
Design Your ADU: Once you know the regulations and guidelines, you can start designing your ADU. Consider your budget, the purpose of your ADU, and the size and style of your property. You can hire an architect or a design-build company to help you with the design process.
Obtain Permits: You will need to obtain a building permit from the County Planning and Building Department before starting construction. You will also need to obtain any necessary permits from other agencies, such as the fire department or the water district.
Hire a Contractor: After obtaining the necessary permits, you can hire a contractor to start the construction process. Make sure to choose a contractor who is licensed and experienced in building ADUs.
Complete Construction: Your contractor will complete the construction process, which typically takes a few months, depending on the size and complexity of your ADU. Make sure to communicate regularly with your contractor to ensure the project stays on track.
Final Inspection: After construction is complete, the County Planning and Building Department will conduct a final inspection to ensure your ADU meets all the regulations and guidelines.

Building an ADU in Sacramento County is a smart investment that can provide you with additional living space, rental income, and property value. If you're interested in learning more or are ready to get started on your own project, contact the Sherri Patterson Team today. Our knowledgeable team can provide you with expert guidance and help you navigate the ADU construction process in Sacramento County. So what are you waiting for? Let's start building your dream ADU today!

What You Should Know About The Roller Coaster Mortgage Rates

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 05:40:21 GMT

After steadily falling over the winter, mortgage rates have started to rise in recent weeks. This is concerning to some potential homebuyers as the combination of higher mortgage rates and higher prices have made homes less affordable. So, if you’re planning to purchase a home this year, you too may be wondering if now’s the right time to buy or if you should hold off on your search until rates come back down.

The recent uptick in rates has been driven by what’s happening with inflation. Joel Kan, Vice President and Deputy Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), explains :

“Mortgage rates increased across the board last week, pushed higher by market expectations that inflation will persist, thus requiring the Federal Reserve to keep monetary policy restrictive for a longer time.”

The most recent weekly average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reported by Freddie Mac is 6.5%. It’s the third week in a row that rates have increased and puts them at the highest point they’ve been this year ( see graph below ):

Advice for Home Shoppers

If you’re thinking about pausing your home search because rates have started to go up again, you may want to reconsider. This could actually be an opportunity to buy the home you’ve been searching for. According to the MBA, mortgage applications declined by 13.3% in just one week, so it appears the rise in mortgage rates is leading some potential homebuyers to pull back on their search for a new home.

So, what does that mean for you? If you stay the course, you’ll likely face less competition among other buyers when you’re looking for a home. This is welcome relief in a market that has so few homes for sale.

Over the last few weeks, mortgage rates have risen. But that doesn’t mean you should delay your plans to buy a home. In fact, it could mean the opposite if you want to take advantage of less buyer competition. Contact the Sherri Patterson Team today to explore the options in our local market.

Valentine Pizza Party 2023

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 19:08:31 GMT

All you need is LOVE…but pizza is nice too! We had so much fun showing the love to our clients at our Valentine Pizza Party, Co-Hosted with GUIDE Real Estate.

2023 Relocation Guide to Sacramento is Here!

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 19:59:53 GMT

Each year, we help dozens of families relocate to the Sacramento area. Because we work with so many relocating physicians and families, we put out an annual relocation guide that helps our clients as well as anyone else thinking about making the leap find the best neighborhoods, get information on demographics, schools & college info and rankings, as well as the region's hot spots for fun and entertainment. Click here to download our guide .

But… why would you want to move to the Sacramento area in the first place? Here are the top 10 reasons!

SACRAMENTO IS ONE OF THE MOST AFFORDABLE METRO AREAS TO LIVE IN CALIFORNIA

Although property value is increasing steadily each year (the median home value was $485,000 at the time of publishing), it’s still very affordable as compared to homes in Southern California. The cost of living is 21% higher than the nation, but Los Angeles is 46% higher than Sacramento, to put everything into perspective.

WE HAVE TOP-RATED SCHOOLS

In addition to California State University, Sacramento, known to be the 11th eldest higher education institution in Cal State University system, we also have great elementary, middle, and high schools. For families with young children, be happy to know that the school system in Sacramento is among the best. Some of the best public and private schools in Sacramento include West Campus High School, Granite Bay High, Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep, Ralph Waldo Emerson Junior High, and Pheobe A. Hearst Middle School, but if you want more details on these schools, check out our guide.

WE HAVE AN ABUNDANCE OF LAKES, RIVERS, HIKING TRAILS AND OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

Sacramento is surrounded by picturesque mountains and friendly neighbors that will make your move to the area worth it. Some of our favorite lakes in the area are Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma, while the American River is one that features never-ending trails and plenty to do. Water-rafting, anyone?

OUR JOB MARKET IS LEGIT

If you are looking for a job when moving to Sacramento, be happy to know that you will not be looking for long. In 2022 alone, total jobs in the area have increased by 6.6%. There are now a total of 1,060,700 jobs available in the city and surrounding counties. Nowadays Sacramento has a variety of industries that run the economy and it is this job diversity that has made it into such a successful area.

THE WEATHER IS GREAT

Beloved for its warm and temperate climate, Sacramento has hot and dry summers alongside wet and mild winters. With an average annual temperature of 62 degrees (which most consider perfect around here), the temperatures remain moderate all year long. While the summers may get blistering hot and reach high temperatures up to 100 degrees, if you love dry heat and a lack of humidity then Sacramento is the perfect place for you.

Not sure if you want to call Sacramento your home just yet? Contact our team and we can schedule a tour to show you around!

Sacramento Market Update: What To Expect This Spring

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 04:15:39 GMT

Now that we're officially one month into the new year we are starting to get a slightly better view of how the 2023 market will perform. It’s important to keep watching different key metrics such as: pending home sales, actives, and prices to understand what is normal and what is not. Below we've shared some analysis, based on what we know so far! This post is a mix of our own research, stats from Lawerence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors and this blog post from the Sacramento Appraisal Blog .

Let's jump in!

Temperature shock: We had the worst monthly volume ever in the Sacramento region over the past 90 days. Rising interest rates, combined with high homes prices lead to a slow fall and winter season. A stark contrast from the hot market we had leading up to summer 2022. As we enter a new year it seems that buyers are warming up to the new reality that interest rates and home prices will not drop drastically. Time will tell.

Buyers are targeting older listings: Buyers are targeting new listings, but homes that have been sitting on the market are also going under contract. 31% of pendings in January were units that listed since January, but 69% of pending contracts were listed before the new year. Nearly 18% of pendings listed before October 2022. B uyers aren’t overlooking older listings. They are looking for homes priced right.

The spring feels warm, but not 2021 hot: The housing market was moving about twice as fast as usual for most of 2021, but that’s not the case so far in 2023. So far, we’re seeing typical signs of a spring season with more pendings, properties getting into contract quickly, more multiple offers, more mortgage applications, and new listings. The number of mortgage applications and pending contracts are still down though, so it's a little premature to say just how hot the spring 2023 market will be.

Higher-priced listings in 2023: Larger homes are listing (normal spring trend), which means buyers are finally starting to have a higher-quality selection. Pendings in January are listed about 1% higher than the median price of January’s closed sales and 3% higher than December (normal trend). In short, preliminary stats suggest we could see a spring price uptick. It’s still early to say this, but larger homes and higher prices in January suggest this could happen.

The right price moves quickly: It’s that time of year where it’s going to take less time to sell. 28% of pendings in January so far got into contract within ten days, and about 46% of units got into contract within thirty days of listing. This underscores the importance of pricing it right. Technically the average for pendings this month has been a whopping 60 days, and a number that big speaks to lots of properties that got into contract that were listed prior to January. But here’s a stunning stat. Active listings have been on the market 86 days, and that shows how many overpriced units there are right now.

Lower prices are hotter: The hottest price point in town is under $500,000. In fact, 40.7% of all pending contracts in the region since January have been under $500,000. A whopping 49.7% of these pendings had multiple offers too compared to 37.9% of units above $500,000. These numbers aren’t unexpected for what we should see since the bottom half of activity tends to be more competitive.

Not a buyer buffet: Buyers, you do have more power in today’s market, but there is still competition – especially for lower-priced units and homes that check all the boxes. In short, it’s not a buffet where you can take whatever you want at any price. For anyone buying right now, be confident in your decision, be patient, and get the most the market will give you.

Affordability is still an issue : It’s possible some buyers have gotten used to the idea of 6% rates, and some are finding a bit of affordability relief in light of a 15% dip in the median price last year. But we’re still missing a ton of buyers in the marketplace, and we need to see more affordability to get these buyers back.

Multiple offers: Getting multiple offers today isn’t always the same thing as 2021 where so many listings were bid up with contingencies removed. But let’s remember getting multiple offers is a normal part of the real estate experience for a portion of the market. 46% of pendings over the past two weeks had multiple offers, which is a pretty normal level for the time of year, and we SHOULD be seeing more multiple offers in the spring season.

Has the housing market bottomed out? There is lots of talk about the housing market bottoming out. Time will tell what happens ahead and how long this downward cycle will last, but with regards to pricing most economists are predicting a flat year ahead and somewhere between 15-25% appreciation over the next five years, but this could be uneven depending on where you live.

Pending volume is still subdued: The number of pending contracts is starting to see an uptick for the spring, but it’s still lower than a normal level. Experts are predicting volume to be down about 7% this year, but with prices dipping, we will see some buyers come back. If rates end up dropping too, that will help even more.

It's important to remember that real estate is hyper local and also an extremely personal decision. Life circumstances require people to sell their home regardless of the market. And for buyers it is hard to time the market perfectly. If you can afford a mortgage payment, today's market offers oppotunities we have not seen over the last two years. Consult with our team to learn more about whether 2023 is the right year to buy, sell or invest!

Sacramento’s Biggest Events You Can’t Miss in 2023

kat@copykatconsulting.com (Kat Kobzeff-Wells) — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 05:48:16 GMT

Happy New Year, Sacramento! 2022 was a big year for Sacramento as we kicked off the inaugural GoldenSky country music festival, brought home another Michelin star, welcomed thousands of athletes for our first IRONMAN California triathlon, held the World’s Strongest Man competition, and celebrated 10 years of California’s biggest rock music festival, Aftershock. We are SO excited for another year full of fun events, festivals, sporting events, and more here in America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital. Here’s a look at some of Sacramento’s biggest and brightest events of 2023.

NCAA March Madness

Thursday, March 16, and Saturday, March 18, 2023

College basketball fans, take note. Sacramento is hosting the first- and second-round games of the 2023 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship tournament at Golden 1 Center. You can see how well your brackets do live and in real time at the NBA’s most technologically advanced arena. Visit the NCAA Ticketing website for your chance to score seats and be a part of March Madness.

Legends of Wine

Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023

Sacramento’s month of farm-to-fork festivities will once again kick off with Legends of Wine . The tasting event is dedicated to local legends Darrell Corti and David Berkley and the wines of the greater Sacramento region. Local restaurants will also be at the event with selections of Sacramento’s farm-to-fork cuisine. Legends of Wine tickets will go on sale in the summer at farmtofork.com .

Tower Bridge Dinner

Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023

Since 2013, hundreds have gathered in Sacramento for one of the nation’s most unforgettable dining experiences. Sacramento’s famed Tower Bridge Dinner will once again feature a locally sourced multi-course dinner prepared by some of the region—and world’s—top chefs atop Tower Bridge. Tower Bridge Dinner ticket details, lead chefs, and menu will be announced in spring.

10th anniversary of the Farm-to-Fork Festival

Friday, Sept. 22 and Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Visit Sacramento’s Farm-to-Fork Festival . The festival was created in 2013 as a celebration of the region’s food and agriculture, and a chance to honor the people who bring delicious food and drinks to our tables every day. This highly anticipated festival, drawing thousands of visitors from across the country, will return to Sacramento’s Capitol Mall combining fresh food, local beers and wines, cooking demonstrations, interactive exhibits, a concert series, and more. Farm-to-Fork Festival vendor applications and concert headliners will be announced in the summer.

Aftershock

Thursday, Oct. 5 through Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023

Are you ready to rock Sacramento? California’s biggest rock festival is returning to Sacramento’s Discovery Park for its 11th year. With nonstop music from over 90 heavy metal and rock bands, some of the best food and drinks Sacramento has to offer, and various sponsorship activations and experiences, Aftershock is a festival you won’t want to miss. Early bird passes for Aftershock are available NOW with a down payment of just $10 on the Aftershock website . The Aftershock lineup will be announced in the spring.

GoldenSky

Saturday, Oct. 14 and Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023

It’s time to dust off your boots and pick out your best cowboy hat because GoldenSky Country Music Festival is BACK. GoldenSky kicked off last year, bringing over 50,000 country music fans together in Sacramento. This year, the festival will return to Discovery Park for two days full of music, farm-to-fork food, craft beer, line dancing, and more. Early bird passes for GoldenSky are available NOW with a down payment of just $10 on the GoldenSky website . If you purchase an early bird pass for GoldenSky, you will receive free entry to the GoldenSky Beer Festival featuring complimentary tastings of the region’s best craft beers, ciders, and hard seltzers. The GoldenSky lineup will be announced in the spring.

IRONMAN California

Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023

Thousands of athletes will return to Sacramento to compete in IRONMAN California. As athletes swim, bike, and run, they will get to see some of the sights that make Sacramento so special, including the Old Sacramento Waterfront, Tower Bridge, and the California State Capitol. Visit the IRONMAN California website for further details regarding 2023’s event, including registration information.

Luxury Launch Party

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 18:08:02 GMT

Joining GUIDE Real Estate has been an amazing experience! We feel privileged to work with them and the talented team at Bullsai Digital Marketing, who worked so hard on our new website.

Fun was had by all as we celebrated the evening with our wonderful group of Preferred Vendors and officially launched the new site.

How to Get What You Want: 3 Steps to Planning A Productive Year

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 06:00:46 GMT

live your best life this year!

Entering a new year can be overwhelming. Just like an artist’s empty canvas or a writer’s blank sheet of paper, it’s hard to know where to begin. But remember, starting fresh also offers an abundance of opportunity. Now is the time to take your year by the horns and steer it in the right direction.

Don’t know where to begin? The following 3 steps are a great place to start:

Step 1: Setting Intentions

Setting your intentions at the beginning of the year is like making a map. Without them, how will you know where you’re going? Or, more importantly, how will you know when you get there? It’s hard to find the “X” that marks the spot if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

Okay, pirate lingo aside, it’s important to lockdown your annual goals at the beginning of the year. These intentions will help you stay on track whenever you’re feeling lost.

TIP: Write them down in a planner , on a Word document, or even in the notes app on your phone. Make sure your intentions are documented somewhere so you can always refer to them.

Step 2: Creating SMART Goals

Do you have your intentions in mind? Great! Now, let’s dig a little deeper.

We want to turn these intentions into SMART goals. This is an acronym meaning goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Adding these parameters will provide clarity for your objectives and help you achieve the future you desire.

Goals that are specific and measurable help you narrow your intentions and track your progress (that way you know whether you’ve reached your milestones or not.) Next, be sure to set goals that are achievable and realistic. There’s nothing more discouraging than setting a goal that you secretly know you won’t achieve. And lastly, make sure you can reach these objectives within the year.

Now your 2023 is REALLY starting to take shape!

Step 3: Choosing Your “Word” for the Year

While we believe in the power of setting future goals, that may not be for everybody. Instead, consider a word for the year.

Think about your intentions for the year and narrow them down to a single word or phrase. No need for something fancy. How about—inspire? Or maybe reset? Choose something that you would consider meaningful for your year to come. The book One Word That Will Change Your Life by Jimmy Page & Dan Britton covers this idea in detail, so consider giving it a read as you establish your word for the year!

Have we turned you into a goal-getter yet?

Don’t forget that setting real estate goals is an important part of planning your year. If your real estate goals for 2023 involve buying, selling, or investing in a home, please contact us .

Gratitude Gathering 2022

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 19:21:54 GMT

We appreciate all of our clients, all of the time, but this time of year we love getting together to show our gratitude, eat yummy treats and gift them with a homemade pie from Apple Hill. Special thanks to our amazing Co-Host, and one of our preferred lenders, Cindi Taylor of Big Valley Mortgage, for opening up her beautiful home to host us all.

3 Ways to Reduce Your Interest Rate When Buying a Home

kat@copykatconsulting.com (Kat Kobzeff-Wells) — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 20:36:31 GMT

Are you kicking yourself for not buying when mortgage rates were lower? You’re not alone!

With the housing market slowing, sellers reducing prices and interest rates peaking at the highest level in 20 years, many would-be buyers have put their plans on pause.

But is waiting really the smartest strategy?

While we try not to give blanket advice, our team is still generally encouraging clients to pursue homebuying because it supports long-term wealth building. After all, 7% is 93% less than 100% interest (which is what you pay when you continue to rent).

“There is no doubt that these higher rates hurt housing affordability. Nevertheless, apart from borrowing costs, rents additionally rose at their highest pace in nearly four decades.” - Nadia Evangelou, Senior Economist and Director of Forecasting at the National Association of Realtors (NAR)

If you’re thinking about buying in the new year, it’s important to understand there are a number of creative loan programs that can temporarily reduce your interest rate.

PRO TIP: Contact our team to get connected to a trusted lender who can help you explore these options and get pre-qualified!

2-1 Buydowns

With a 2-1 buydown mortgage, the buyer pays a lower interest rate over the first two years of the loan in return for an up-front payment of the interest. The interest rate is reduced by 2% in the first year, 1% in the second year, and then the full interest rate for the remainder of the mortgage. This is the most common buydown option.

For example, if rates today are at 7%, the first year’s rate would be at 5%, the second year’s rate would be at 6% and then the remainder of the loan would go back to 7%.

Costs on this are typically around 2-3% of the purchase price and can be used on FHA, VA and Conventional Loans regardless of down payment size.

3-2-1 Buydowns

With a 3-2-1 buydown mortgage, the buyer pays a lower interest rate over the first three years in return for an up-front payment of the interest. The interest rate is reduced by 3% in the first year, 2% in the second year, and 1% in the third year.

For example, if rates today are at 7%, the first year’s rate would be at 4%, the second year’s rate would be at 5%, the third year’s rate would be 6% and then the remainder of the loan would go back to 7%.

Costs on this are typically around 4% of the purchase price, so on a conventional loan the borrower must have at least a 10% down payment since that allows for over 3% in seller concessions.

Who Can Buy Down A Mortgage?

Although it’s the buyer (or borrower) who benefits from a buydown, the buyer isn’t always the one who buys down a mortgage. Sellers and builders can also be responsible for purchasing points to lower the buyer’s interest rate.

Sellers may offer to buy down a buyer’s mortgage to incentivize the buyer to purchase their home. In these circumstances, the seller will make the one-time payment and deposit it into an escrow account or pay for points over the entire loan term as part of seller concessions.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARMs)

An adjustable-rate mortgage is a home loan with an interest rate that adjusts over time based on the market. The fixed period on these can be 5, 7 or 10 years, so it’s a great option for buyers who want to take advantage of a lower rate but want the security of a longer fixed period than the buydown options offer.

For example, let’s say you take out a 30-year ARM with a 5-year fixed period. That would mean a low, fixed rate for the first 5 years of the loan. After that, your rate could go up or down for the remaining 25 years of the loan.

The Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Home Now or Wait?

If you’ve found a home that you can afford and it meets your family’s needs for the next five years, it’s reasonable to move forward with the purchase. This may sound like a very simple answer, but we find it difficult to perfectly time the housing market. By taking advantage of one of these creative loan options, you can get into your dream home now at a lower rate and refinance once rates drop in the future.

Traditionally, markets like this will stabilize, but when that happens is up in the air. If you’re thinking about buying a home in the new year, reach out to our team! We’re here to help you decide if it makes sense to make a move now or wait!

Holiday Events & Activities in Sacramento

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 06:54:23 GMT

share a little bit of Sacramento with those you love.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Sacramento is gearing up for another year full of holiday fun including the brand-new Enchant Christmas at Sutter Health Park, Theatre of Lights on the Old Sacramento Waterfront, the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink, lighting displays at popular locations like the Fab 40s and Dovewood Court, and so much more!

ACTIVITIES:

Enchant Christmas

Sutter Health Park | 400 Ballpark Drive

Nov 24 - Jan 1 | visit their website for times

Presented by the Hallmark Channel, Enchant Christmas was created by best friends Kevin Johnston and Cam Walker. Since their first event in 2016, Enchant has grown to be the world’s largest illuminated winter wonderland, where you can make your way through an immersive walk-through light maze as you discover larger-than-life displays, find your way to the epic 100-foot-tall Christmas tree, and look for special surprises along the way.

Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink

Ali Youssefi Square | Seventh & K Streets

Nov 9 - Jan 16 Tues-Thur, 2-9 pm & Fri-Sun, 10 am-10 pm

Sharpen your skates and get ready to perfect your triple axel because the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink is back. This winter wonderland, located in the heart of downtown Sacramento at Ali Youssefi Square, is perfect for every occasion, whether it be a night out with the family, a night out with friends, or even a first date!

Fab Fourties Christmas Lights

Sacramento’s Fab Fourties will dazzle you with their impressive decorations, bright colors, holiday cheer and more. Touring the Fab Fourties is a longstanding holiday tradition for many Sacramento families, and there’s truly no better way to experience the magic than on Sac Brew Bike’s 90-minute Fab Fourties Light Tour . Grab your family and friends and pedal through the beautifully lit streets as you sing Christmas carols loud enough for all to hear. Be sure to bring some hot chocolate and lots of cookies with you to enjoy while you pedal!

Old Sacramento Waterfront Holiday Tree

Grab the whole family and head out to the Old Sacramento Waterfront for a free holiday lighting extravaganza! The month of fun begins with the lighting of the 60-foot Old Sacramento Waterfront Christmas tree on November 23rd at 6 p.m. For the rest of the month, enjoy Old Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights which features a 20-minute live-action retelling of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Each performance features a special appearance by Jack Frost and the lighting of the gigantic Christmas tree by St. Nick.

EVENTS:

The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley
Capital Stage
Nov 30-Dec 24 | Wed & Thurs 7pm, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm
It’s Christmas at Pemberley again! This warm holiday comedy takes you into the warmth of the Darcy kitchen, two years after the conclusion of Pride and Prejudice. Family secrets are revealed, and loyalties are tested as you watch a bright holiday tale full of mirth, wit, and the power of giving back to others.

12 Days of Midtown
Midtown
Dec 1-12 | Mon-Sun; Various times
Throughout the first 12 days of December, Midtown guests can enjoy holiday-themed dinners, drinks, events, shows, discounts, and more, all while supporting local businesses.

9 Days of Drake’s
Drake’s: The Barn
Dec 1-4 & 7-11 | Wed-Sun; Various times
Bring your jolly energy to Drake’s The Barn for 9 Days of Drake’s! They will be hosting nine different festive events full of holiday spirit. Experience the Grinch, an Elf, music by Flamingo House, and plenty more to come.

A Christmas Carol
Sacramento Theatre Company
Dec 1-24 | Wed-Fri 7pm, Sat 2pm & 7pm, & Sun 2pm
This audience favorite of Charles Dickens’ time-honored tale returns! It’s Christmas Eve, and the greedy Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits who force Scrooge to confront his regrettable youth, his icy present, and what his future holds if he doesn’t change his miserly ways.

Sacramento Santa Parade
Capitol Mall Greens
Dec 10 | Sat 10am
Sacramento, come welcome Santa Claus to town at the Santa Parade! This parade will also feature car clubs, pageant winners, clowns, floats, marching bands, and more.

Jingle Bell Pup Crawl
Brooks Truitt Bark Park
Dec 10 | Sat Noon-4pm
Join the Sacramento SPCA and partnering Midtown businesses to celebrate the paw-lidays by giving back to the animals while you sip, savor, and shop this holiday season!

Winter Wonderland
Fairytale Town
Dec 10, 11, 17, & 18 | Sat & Sun 1pm-7pm
Celebrate the holiday season at Fairytale Town with holiday lights, festive décor and vendors, snow, Santa, arts and crafts, and more.

Holly Jolly Santa Bar Crawl
Midtown
Dec 10 | Sat 4pm-11pm
Wear your fanciest (or ugliest) holiday attire and join XOSO for a fun night around Sacramento! Turn good times into good for the community and bring a donation of toys or craft supplies for Shriners Hospital for Children.

The Nutcracker
SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center
Dec 10-24 | Various dates and times
The Sacramento Ballet continues its treasured, annual holiday celebration set to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. This year, the Ballet presents its newest staged production that features choreography by Sacramento hometown dancers Nicole Haskins, Colby Damon, and Julia Feldman.

Santa Hustle
Vernon Street Town Square
Dec 11 | Sun 7:30am, 8am, & 8:15am
It’s the most magical time of the year and you can experience the magic at the Santa Hustle fun run! This run has the option for a 10k, 5k, and a Kid’s Dash.

Fleet Feet Holiday Classic
Sutter’s Landing Regional Park
Dec 11 | Sun 9am
Do all those cozy holiday gatherings make you sweat? Run for the chill of it! Join Fleet Feet Sacramento for their annual Holiday Classic Fun Run.

Light Up Elk Grove
Old Town Plaza
Dec 18 | Sun 3pm-5pm
Chabad of Elk Grove is thrilled to invite you to Elk Grove’s first ever Chanukah celebration! Bring your friends and family to enjoy doughnuts, latkes, bounce houses, face painting, and a nine-foot LED menorah!

Hanukkah Pop-Up Bar
Smic’s Bar
Dec 19-23 | Mon-Fri 3pm-9pm
SMIC’S bar is thrilled to be hosting their annual Hanukkah Pop-Up Bar! Mark your calendars for a celebration of lights, love and joy. Guests can enjoy cocktail overhaul and a delicious Jewish food menu.

Christmas Dinner at 7th Street Standard
7th Street Standard
Dec 24 & 25 | Sat 5pm-7pm & Sun 2pm-7pm
Spend quality time with your family as 7th Street Standard handles the dinner! This dinner menu has delicious farm-to-fork options such as prime rib, whole Cornish game hen, and sticky toffee pudding to keep everyone in the family happy.

Magical Christmas Trains on the River Fox
River Fox Train
Through Dec 24 | Various dates and times
All aboard the River Fox’s Magical Christmas Train for an outing that will usher friends and families into the spirit of the season. This is a chance to journey with Santa and his elves through the beautiful countryside of Yolo County.

9th Annual Harvest Fest

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:44:52 GMT

This was by far our biggest and best Harvest Fest yet! We enjoyed the day at Fog Willow Farms with over 260 of our clients and their families. As usual we had lots of arts and crafts, pumpkin decorating, face painting and balloon artists to keep the kids busy. This year we added a caricature artist – not only was he talented but kept us all entertained with his sense of humor! And of course the Critter Lady is always a huge hit, with her creepy-crawly critters. We couldn’t have done it without the assistance our our amazing Co-Host and preferred lender, Kelly Cort and her team at Home Cort Advantage.

Use this checklist to prepare your home for winter

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 03:06:23 GMT

A checklist to winter-proof your sacramento home this fall

For homeowners, prepping your house for the winter is just one of those things you can't skip out on. While hanging holiday lights, decorating your mantel, and watching Home Alone and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas on repeat is fun, there's much more to it.

Fall is a really good time to start thinking about your home maintenance as well as getting it ready for the colder weather. Here are a few items that you can do to get ready for the winter and help keep your home happy:

1. Weather-Proof Doors and Windows

It's important to get ahead of the winter weather and make sure your home is ready to handle the cold to come. Check your doors and windows closely for gaps and areas that may cause a draft. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up, or consider replacing the windows or doors if the problem is severe enough.

2. Check your home’s heating and air conditioning system

Most heating and air systems typically last 12 to 15 years. We have seen systems that are pretty much dead at 10 years and some that are still going strong at 20 years. A lot of this has to do with how they’re maintained.

Before the weather turns cold, take this time to change your filters, at the very least. We recommend having the system inspected by a reputable HVAC contractor. Better yet, look into an annual maintenance agreement. Have the contractor check your system and make sure your heat is going to work when you need it. It’s much better to find an HVAC problem in the moderate temperatures of the fall than it is to find your furnace doesn’t work on a frigid winter day.

3. Clean Your Dryer Hose

Clogged dryer hoses pose huge fire hazards, in fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association , U.S. firefighters respond to approximately 14,630 house fires annually that were caused by dryers. Consumer Reports shares that you can prevent these house fires by cleaning your lint filter, emptying or replacing your dryer hose, and regularly checking the vent and exhaust.

4. Check your drainage

Make sure the soil around your foundation hasn’t settled, creating areas for water to pool at your foundation. If you find a low spot, simply fill it in with some soil. Then go around and check your rain gutter downspouts. Make sure water is getting moved away from the home. Add downspout extenders if necessary. Saturated soil around a foundation can create real problems throughout the winter months.

5. Clean your gutters

Once the leaves are pretty much off the trees, it’s time to clean those gutters. When your gutters back up, they overflow, and when they overflow, that water runs down your home, speeding up the deterioration of your exterior. It can also lead to deterioration of your foundation, water infiltration in the basement and to settling under your concrete porches and walks, which creates all kinds of problems.

6. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Winter is the time most house fires happen. It’s the time of year when we’re blasting the furnace and building fires. We are also much more likely to have our home closed up tight, so carbon monoxide is a much bigger hazard. Check all of your smoke detectors to make sure they are working and that they have good batteries. If your home is not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, consider getting some. The HVAC inspection will also ensure your furnace and water heater are properly vented, which is the most likely source of carbon monoxide.

7. Clean your chimney and order firewood

Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected before you start building those cozy fires in the next couple of months. A good chimney sweep company will make sure the fireplace is safe to use, and it can also identify maintenance problems. This is also the time to order that load of firewood. Take the time to stack and cover that wood in a good location in the yard. Make sure that old firewood isn’t rotten and move it away from your home.

8. Reverse Your Fans

Stephen Fanuka , host of Million Dollar Contractor, says turning your fans clockwise is a secret to saving money on heat in the winter since it will stop the warm air from rising, AKA keep it down where you want it to be. But how do you do this? Most ceiling fans have a switch that you can simply flip to reverse it—if the switch is not easily accessible on the outside of the fan, it may be somewhere inside.

9. Prepare your lawn for winter and set it up for a great spring

If you want that beautiful spring lawn, you have to give it attention in the fall. New grass does not grow when it’s too hot or too cold. If you want new grass to grow, you really only have September through November, then March through May to do it. If you neglect the fall, then you’ve cut your time in half. There are differing opinions on when you should overseed. I prefer fall. Once the heat breaks, your lawn can get some great growing time. So around late September, aerate the lawn and overseed it. Then in about late October or November, apply fertilizer with winterizer.

10. Make sure your attic doesn’t become a critter hotel

It’s going to get cold out and your attic is the perfect winter home for squirrels and birds. These critters can cause a lot of damage and potentially some heath problems. Make sure your trees are trimmed well away from the house, and make sure your gable vents are intact. It’s a good idea to tack a screen up behind your gable vent just in case. Also walk around your home and look up at your soffit and fascia. Make sure there are no holes that will allow birds to get in.

11. Cover your patio furniture

Get your patio furniture protected, but make sure you wait until a clear, warm day to cover it so you don’t trap moisture on it.

What’s Ahead for Home Prices?

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 02:47:18 GMT

What the Experts Are Saying About Home Prices Next Year

As the housing market cools in response to the dramatic rise in mortgage rates, home price appreciation is cooling as well. And if you’re following along with headlines in the media, you’re probably seeing a wide range of opinions calling for everything from falling home prices to ongoing appreciation. But what’s true? What’s most likely to happen moving forward?

While opinions differ, the most likely outcome is we’ll fall somewhere in the middle of slight appreciation and slight depreciation. Here’s a look at the latest expert projections so you have the best information possible today.

The graph below shows the most up-to-date forecasts from five experts in the housing industry. These are the experts that have most recently updated their projections based on current market trends:

As the graph shows, the three blue bars represent experts calling for ongoing home price appreciation, just at a more moderate rate than recent years. The red bars on the graph are experts calling for home price depreciation.

While there isn’t a clear consensus, if you take the average (shown in green) of all five of these forecasts, the most likely outcome is, nationally, home price appreciation will be fairly flat next year.

What Does This Mean?

Basically, experts are divided on what’s ahead for 2023. Home prices will likely depreciate slightly in some areas and will continue to gain ground in others. It all depends on the conditions in your neighborhood, like how overheated that market was in recent years, current inventory levels, buyer demand, and more.

The good news is home prices are expected to return to more normal levels of appreciation rather quickly. The latest forecast from Wells Fargo shows that, while they feel prices will fall in 2023, they think prices will recover and net positive in 2024. That forecast calls for 3.1% appreciation in 2024, which is a number much more in line with the long-term average of 4 % annual appreciation.

And the Home Price Expectation Survey (HPES) from Pulsenomics , a poll of over one hundred industry experts, also calls for ongoing appreciation of roughly 2.6 to 4% from 2024-2026. This goes to show, even if prices decline slightly next year, it’s not expected to be a lasting trend.

As Jason Lewris, Co-Founder and Chief Data Officer for Parcl, says :

“In the absence of trustworthy, up-to-date information, real estate decisions are increasingly being driven by fear, uncertainty, and doubt.”

Don’t let fear or uncertainty change your plans. If you’re unsure about where prices are headed or how to make sense of what’s going on in today’s housing market, reach out to our team for the guidance you need each step of the way.

The housing market is shifting, and it’s a confusing place right now. The best way to navigate that shift is to lean on a trusted real estate professional to help you make confident and informed decisions about what’s happening in your market. If you have questions about the current real estate market, contact us ! We're never too busy to chat. Give us a call at: (916) 801-1105

Sherri Patterson Team Goes LUXURY!

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 04:57:33 GMT

We Are now Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialists™!

You may have noticed a lot of changes with our team lately! We joined GUIDE Real Estate, re-branded and launched our new website last month. We also threw an amazing launch party with our team, business and vendor partners (see pics below)!

All of these changes were carefully planned to elevate our business and provide more reach for our amazing clients who are looking to buy, sell or relocate to the Greater Sacramento area.

During this transition we also have been seeking out opportunities to expand our education, experience and resources for our luxury clients.

Which is why we're excited to share that each of our agents have earned their Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS) designation. We have also received GUILD™ recognition.

What this means?

Recognized as the mark of accomplishment in luxury markets around the world, the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ (CLHMS) designation assures affluent buyers and sellers that the agents who have earned it have the knowledge, experience, competence, and confidence they require.

The CLHMS™ designation is earned by Institute Members with documented sales performance in the top 10% of their market.

The GUILD™ recognition is awarded after earning the CLHMS™ designation, and closing two transactions in the million-dollar and above residential market.

THANK YOU to our amazing clients who have been on this journey with us! We look forward to sharing the latest marketing strategies, information on changing market conditions AND providing all our clients -- including those with exceptional properties --- top notch service!

7 Reasons Not to Fear The Current Housing Market

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 03:39:01 GMT

the current market May seem Scary, but the good news is you don’t have to face it alone!

As the housing market slows (btw: totally normal for this time of year!), you may have questions about what will happen next. After all, memories of the Recession that took place in 2008 are still very fresh for many of us! Which is why our team is tracking top economists and the latest market data, so we can provide you with sound advice as you prepare to navigate these changes.

If you are a buyer :

1.) There is less competition - more homes on the market means less offers on each home, so you won't have to come up with crazy ways to entice the seller to pick you.

2.) There is room to negotiate - some sellers are offering concessions like paying part of a buyer's closing costs or helping buy their rate down.

3.) You don't have to waive your inspection and financing contingencies, which gives you the flexibility to call the deal off if issues arise. A luxury many buyers didn’t have last year!

4.) You have more options , which makes the process of looking at homes fun again.

If you are a seller :

5.) You can still benefit from the enormous appreciation in home values we have seen over the past 2 years.

6.) You are still in a seller's market and will sell your home quickly - 88% of recently sold homes spent less than a month on the market.

7.) As long as you have a trusted professional to help you strategically price your home, you will still get a lot of interest from buyers.

Plus, if you are wanting to not only sell, but also purchase a new home, you will benefit from all of the above!

Something to keep in mind: The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported an increase of 100,000 members since 2021. The average experience of NAR agents has decreased to only 8 years. Who knows how long these agents will last in a shifting market—that's why you need to trust a professional with the skills and experience to get you to the closing table!

The ever changing real estate market can be overwhelming! We know what it takes to guide you through investing, selling, or finding your dream home in the Greater Sacramento Area. Contact us today to learn more about our local market.

Here are the Best Pumpkin Patches in the Sacramento Area

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 20:53:50 GMT

This fall season, head over to one of our area’s best farms to enjoy an old-fashioned hayride, get lost in a corn maze, pick pumpkins and eat fudge or caramel apples! Here are the best pumpkin patches in the Sacramento area.

Fog Willow Farms

For years, we’ve hosted our annual Harvest Festival at Fog Willow Farms, and if you’ve ever joined us, you know why it remains one of our favorite farms for fall fun. Just ten minutes from the heart of Elk Grove, family-owned Fog Willow Farms has mazes, a petting zoo and even pumpkin canons.

View our 2022 Harvest Pics here!

11011 Cecatra Dr. Wilton, CA 95693

(916) 687-4547 | www.fogwillowfarms.com

Client Appreciation Event | Fog Willow Farms

Dave’s Pumpkin Patch

For full-fledged fall activities, Dave’s Pumpkin Patch at Vierra Farms offers several attractions, including tractor rides, pig races, a few haunted mazes, princess shows, and even smaller mazes and play areas for younger children. If you stop by, try their famous apple cider cinnamon donuts— they’re delectable! Their grill also offers smoked tri-tip and pulled pork as well as hamburgers and hot dogs.

3010 Burrows Ave. West Sacramento

(916) 849-9450 | www.vierrafarms.com

Dave’s Pumpkin Patch | Vierra Farms

Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm

For good ol’ fashioned farm fun, Bishop’s is a great place, especially if you’re up for a tiny road trip turning into a daycation at the farm. With the largest U-Pick pumpkin field in the world, Bishop’s is known for its made-from-scratch Pumpkin Apple Muffin. There’s a Weeland Petting Zoo, hayrides, corn mazes and a carousel.

1415 Pumpkin Ln. Wheatland, CA

(530) 633-2568

www.bishopspumpkinfarm.com

Keema’s Pumpkin Farm

Another Elk Grove area gem is Keema’s Farm. This is a newer farm, opened since 2007, is family-owned, and offers many of the same fall farm attractions as larger farms in the area such as hayrides, farm animals and corn mazes for the littles.

6532 Point Pleasant Rd. Elk Grove, CA

(916) 684-2334

www.keemaspumpkinfarm.com

Rickey Ranch Pumpkin Farm

If you are looking for a great family outing to find the perfect farm-grown pumpkins, with plenty of activities for the kids, this is the place. Rickey Ranch showcases plenty of vintage tractors and offers horse rides as well. Farm animals include pigs, chickens, goats and sheep.

6950 Cavitt Stallman Rd. Granite Bay, CA

www.visitplacer.com/rickey-ranch-pumpkin-farm/

The Spring Real Estate Market Will Be Busy. Here’s How to Prep

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 21:45:10 GMT

As we head further into the spring homebuying season, earlier predictions for the 2022 real estate market still ring true. Fortune Magazine puts it plainly, “We're in the middle of the housing market's hottest stretch in the nation's history.” This remains a strong seller’s market with low inventory and high buyer demand, but it won’t be as crazy as the peak in 2021.

As a buyer, you can expect fewer bidding wars, but you should come as prepared as possible by knowing what you can afford and having your pre-approval letter on hand. Home prices are expected to continue to rise, but at a slower pace, so sellers should get ahead in preparation of selling their homes as labor and supply shortages are extending timelines of repair and renovation projects.

HERE’S WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT RISING MORTGAGE RATES

Today’s mortgage rates are about 1% higher than they were this time one year ago, according to a recent T ime.com Nextadvisor article . Experts say several economic factors are pushing interest rates up this year: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported recently that inflation climbed again in February and is the highest in four decades at 7.9% year-over-year.

What this means for spring 2022 homebuyers is that a 1% difference in mortgage rates can affect your buying power. You can work around this by putting down a higher down payment if that is an option for you. Yet experts tend to agree not to time the rate market and buy when the time is right for you. From a historical perspective, 4%+ rates that we’re seeing now are considered favorable. Prior to 2011, rates below 5% were a rare thing.

THE HOUSING FRENZY WILL PASS, BUT NOT THIS SPRING

If you’re one of those who waited year after year for the housing market to crash or the bubble to pop, you’re going to have to wait a bit longer for any significant change. Housing economists are clear that the frenzy will eventually end, claiming simple economics dictate that home price growth can't outpace income growth forever. In a recent Fortune.com article , home prices were stated to be growing six times faster than wages. All of this is to say: the housing market will eventually cool, but not during this spring season. “But what about next year?” You ask. Real estate forecasts show that the combination of our nation’s inventory problem, sky-high home prices and rising mortgage rates will bring the market back to “normal.

THE SACRAMENTO REAL ESTATE MARKET

Data, stats, and trends are only as good as they are specific. So while nationwide trends reflect how the local market will do, it’s still a good idea to pay attention to what’s going on in our real estate market. Here’s a rundown:

SACRAMENTO REAL ESTATE MARKET 2022 OVERVIEW

Median Home Value: $475,136

Median List Price: $624,667 (+5.1% year over year)

1-Year Appreciation Rate: 20.9%

Median Home Value (1-Year Forecast): 15.8%

Weeks Of Supply: 4.5 (-0.3 year over year)

New Listings: 381 (-19.9% year over year)

Active Listings: 1,960 (-20.3% year over year)

Homes Sold: 490.0 (-5.2% year over year)

Median Days On Market: 12.3 (0.0 year over year)

Median Rent: $2,228 (+12.5% year over year)

Price-To-Rent Ratio: 17.77

Unemployment Rate: 4.4% (latest estimate by the Bureau Of Labor Statistics)

Population: 1,552,058 (latest estimate by the U.S. Census Bureau)

Median Household Income: $67,151 (latest estimate by the U.S. Census Bureau)

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?

One of Sacramento’s housing market’s greatest features is its proximity to San Jose and San Francisco. As the more affordable alternative, Sacramento has seen an increase in buyers and will continue to see more of an influx of both buyers and renters fleeing other cities. Since the pandemic has cut into the local inventory supply, prices are expected to rise for the foreseeable future.

If you’ve been wavering between “buy now or buy later,” we urge you not to wait until it’s too late. Mortgage rates are expected to rise along with home prices this year. Could you possibly position yourself advantageously? Absolutely! Get in touch with us and we can walk you through the options and help you weigh the pros and cons. Sellers! Now is the time to sell if you’ve been thinking about it. What will it take to get your home on the market? Let’s talk. Schedule a consultation with our team.

How to Recession-Proof Your Finances

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 22:50:59 GMT

After the last major economic downturn, hearing that the next recession might be around the corner (or already in our midst) can feel unsettling. Despite the buzz of impending recession fluttering across the media, the reality is that so many factors simultaneously influence the U.S. economy no one can truly predict its timing.

Making a few key choices now to recession-proof your finances may keep you above water if you’re worried about an economic downturn headed our way.

1. MANAGE YOUR SPENDING WISELY, STARTING NOW

Cash flow is money coming in and money going out. The "going out" part is probably the easiest, fastest thing to influence.

Take a look at your current expenses, and see what you could immediately cut. This is likely going to be things like entertainment, restaurants, luxury purchases, and other shopping.

Then go a level deeper: What might you not be able to eliminate entirely, but could easily spend less on? That might be groceries, home supplies, or things like transportation or fitness (if you switched from driving to biking, for example, or exchanged your exclusive and expensive gym membership for a cheaper option).

If you spend less now, that also frees up more cash flow for you to direct toward savings and investments — another great way to recession-proof your personal finances.

2. BOOST YOUR EARNINGS, THEN YOUR SAVINGS, WHILE YOU CAN

There are a number of ways you can increase your income. The right path for you will depend on your situation, your skills, and your interests, but here are a few suggestions to consider:

Ask for extra shifts or overtime hours

Look for part-time positions you can take on in addition to your current obligations

Explore freelancing or consulting on the side

Take on more responsibilities or projects at work, and use that as leverage to help negotiate higher pay (or consider taking your skills elsewhere while companies are still hiring)

And whether you increase your income or reduce your spending (or both), you'll have additional cash flow available each month. You can use that extra money to:

Pad your emergency fund, especially if you feel concerned about a recession and potentially losing your job

Increase contributions to your retirement accounts to build long-term financial stability

Add to your investment portfolio outside of retirement; for example, you could open and fund a brokerage account (or increase the amount you invest each month if you already have a portfolio outside your retirement savings)

3. KEEP INVESTING

To recession-proof your finances (and investment portfolio), you need to continue to invest even though the market is dropping. In fact, especially when the market falls!

If you only invest when the market is going up, times are good, and everyone feels confident, you're buying at increasingly higher prices. And if you don't keep investing when the market falls, then you never take advantage of the lower prices the market offers.

It can feel scary to push your hard-earned cash into the stock market or real estate when the value of your investments is dropping, but wise long-term investors know that corrections, bear markets, and recessions are actually opportunities to buy assets at lower prices.

4. REVIEW YOUR SKILLS AND REFRESH THEM AS NEEDED

Most people fear recessions because they increases the risk that you'll lose your job and therefore your much-needed income. You can help recession-proof your finances by ensuring that even in a tight labor market, you remain a vital resource.

Review your skills and knowledge and compare that with the current market to see where you might be able to fill a need, or to understand what you might need to catch up on to stay relevant for open positions.

This applies if you're self-employed, too. Do you need to brush up on the latest trends in your field? Are there any training or education opportunities available, or certain clients or projects you can take on now to expand your experience?

5. AVOID RASH (OR EXPENSIVE!) FINANCIAL DECISIONS

Now is not the time to make crazy leaps into the unknown with your money, or to take uncalculated, unnecessary risks.

This is especially true for any financial decision that is going to tie up a lot of your cash flow, limit your liquidity, or set a very high fixed cost in your budget.

If you can hold off on very large financial decisions that might put you in a precarious situation, delay those. In the meantime, you can work on building up your savings and increasing your assets through investment contributions.

Ultimately, one of the best ways to recession-proof your finances is to keep perspective. Don't make a short-term decision on what should be a long-term play — and remember that recessions themselves are short-term.

Whether or not we're in for a recession in the near future, staying focused on the big picture and being proactive are two key ways to safely navigate whatever comes our way.

Want more tips on how to recession-proof your finances? We recommend these podcasts by Brian Buffini:

Recession Proof Your Money Part 1

Recession Proof Your Money Part 2

The Sherri Patterson Team Joins Guide Real Estate

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 22:45:31 GMT

We have some exciting news! The Sherri Patterson Team has partnered with the brokerage GUIDE Real Estate – an exclusive member with Forbes Global Properties. We believe this exciting move will elevate our business and provide more resources and global reach for our amazing clients who are looking to buy, sell or relocate to the Greater Sacramento area.

WHAT DOES THIS MOVE MEAN FOR YOU AS A CLIENT?

A couple of things will change (we think for the better)!

We have a new address: 2795 E. Bidwell St #100-345 Folsom, CA 95630

We have a fresh new look! We've started to roll out our new logo and our brand new website is coming soon.

We're now a part of Forbes Global Properties: As a member of this exclusive network, our clients will benefit from their listings getting in front of Forbes’ engaged audience of more than 100 million monthly global visitors.

WHY WE SWITCHED TO GUIDE REAL ESTATE?

They are nationally recognized within the top 1.5% of brokerages by Real Trends Nation’s Best, and exclusively represent Forbes Global Properties throughout the Greater Sacramento area. They offer best-in-class marketing solutions, and are a forward-thinking firm with a strong reputation for market expertise and conscientious client-service.

THANK YOU for supporting our business over the years and being on this exciting journey with us! We look forward to sharing more about GUIDE Real Estate in the future. In the meantime, if you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to our team .

This Park in Sacramento Has A Lake, Walking Paths, Splash Pad, And More!

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 22:39:42 GMT

Here in Northern California, we love our parks. We may be a little biased, but we have some of the best city parks in the entire country. One of these parks that should never be overlooked is North Natomas Regional Park, located in Sacramento. This is one family-friendly park in Sacramento where you can experience adventure, beauty, excitement, competition, and smiles.

North Natomas Regional Park is 212 acres and features amenities for the entire family. Plan to spend a few hours at this family-friendly park in Northern California as there is so much to do and see. Here is a list of ways to enjoy the park!

This park offers many of the features that you will find in your average city park like baseball and softball fields, picnic areas, ample shade trees, and playgrounds. However, this park offers just a little bit more.

Not only does North Natomas Regional Park provide ample green space to relax and play on, but there is also a large lake, perfect for a quiet afternoon or for throwing in a line and trying your luck at fishing.

Keep your eyes out for ducks and geese at the park — you’ll often see many!

You can always capture gorgeous lake views on a walk around the lake. There are paths and bridges that take you around this park, such as the North Natomas Loop, which is a 2.5-mile loop trail.

This trail is wide and paved the entire way. It is also flat, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and individuals with mobility challenges.

If you time your walk just right, you’ll also capture some gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Bring your camera — you are going to want it!

Young children will never want to leave the splash pad located at this Sacramento city park. This is a great way for children (and even adults) to cool off on a summer day!

And a visit to this park wouldn’t be complete without every member of your family — including your four-legged pet!

North Natomas Regional Park features both large and small dog parks, complete with many amenities for yourself and your favorite furry friend like turf, fencing, dog agility equipment, and shade canopies.

Every Saturday throughout the summer, you’ll want to stop by this park for the Natomas Farmers Market. Here, you will find vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, and so much more. It’s a terrific way to spend your weekend.

North Natomas Regional Park in Sacramento is one city park that your entire family will love. In fact, you can spend all day here and never become bored. You can learn more about this park and many of its amenities on the city of Sacramento website .

Have you ever spent time at North Natomas Regional Park in Sacramento? If so, what did you love most about this family-friendly park in Northern California? Let us know in the comments!

Before you head to this city park, fuel your body! Head to the Pancake Circus , a Sacramento staple since 1961.

Address: North Natomas Regional Park, 4989 Natomas Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95835, USA

Summer Real Estate Market Update

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 19:01:02 GMT

We entered this year with a few bold predictions from economists and industry experts, including Brian Buffini, but the hikes in mortgage interest rates over the past few weeks took all of us by surprise. Initially, it was predicted that rates would hit 4% by the end of 2022. Here we are with the busiest time of the year just kicking off, and rates have surpassed 5%. So how do rates and tight inventory make for a summer market? Read below for our insights and the best seller and buyer tips we can provide based on our experience.

1. INCREASING RATES = DIMINISHING AFFORDABILITY

For first-time home buyers, the costs of buying the same home this year compared to one year ago have increased by 40% due to higher home prices and higher mortgage rates, says Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of REALTORS . Simply put, for every 1% increase in interest rates, buyers lose about $10,000 of buying power.

2. LESS COMPETITION

As rising interest rates knock many would-be buyers out of the market due to non-affordability, there will be fewer buyers to compete with for the same home. In the spring of 2021, nationally the average number of offers on a home was about five, according to Fool.com . In a typical market, a home is expected to receive two to three offers. This summer, a well-marketed home can expect three to four offers.

Photo by Andrew Wise on Unsplash

3. THE MARKET WILL SLOW DOWN, BUT NOT CRASH

Most experts agree that the market will not crash this year, but it will slow down a little. In a recent Roseville Today article, inflation along with increased mortgage interest rates is causing an affordability issue, making homes stay on the market longer and fewer offers on the homes that are for sale.

4. There’s an Opportunity for Both Buyers and Sellers

Despite the market slowdown, demand for housing remains high. It’s still a seller’s market and most sellers continue to receive multiple offers as well as over-asking for their homes. As interest rates increase this may lead to a more sustainable home price growth, which is good for buyers.

Not sure what move is the best for you? Contact our team for a comprehensive analysis of your property and your goals.

A Summer in Sacramento: Best Lakes

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:56:21 GMT

With temperatures surging in the high nineties, keeping cool is everyone’s mission here in the Sacramento area. Luckily for us, there are tons of swimming lakes in the area. We’ve gathered a list of some of the best lakes in Folsom, Granite Bay, Sacramento and surrounding cities that you’ll love to dip your toes in this summer. Which is your favorite? Let us know!

PHOTO: Folsom Lake

FOLSOM LAKE

Nestled at the base of the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, Folsom Lake is known to offer visitors plenty of water activities and beach recreation. There are five major day-use areas on the lake, including Granite Bay, Beals Point, Folsom Point, Negro Bar, and Nimbus Flats. On the western shoreline, Granite Bay and Beals Point, offer large day-use areas that include swim beaches, boat-launch facilities, restrooms, landscaped picnic areas, snack-food and beach-equipment concessions, trailheads, and parking. The Granite Bay also has a 69-site campground, whereas the eastern shoreline (Brown’s Ravine and Folsom Point) has wet slips, boat launches, and trailheads.

PHOTO: Lake Clementine | Visitplacer.com

LAKE CLEMENTINE

Located on a thin boulder in the North Fork American River, Lake Clementine is a visit-worthy destination above the picturesque, California Gold Rush-era town of Auburn. This lake offers boat-in campsites equipped with restrooms, picnic tables and fire rings. Aquatic sports are available on the lower lake, while swimming and white sandy beaches are offered at the upper lake. If you want to see something magical, be sure to visit the lake before sunrise.

PHOTO: Lake Natoma | Tripadvisor.com

LAKE NATOMA

Want to take in the historic views of Old Folsom and indluge in lake activities such as stand up paddleboarding or kayaking? Lake Natoma checks off all of those things and more. Lake Natoma has miles and miles of paved bicycle trails, multi-use trails and is excellent for year-round bank or boat fishing. Two launch ramps provide continuous boat launching access year-round. Motorized boating is also allowed, but topped with a 5 mph speed limit. If you’re into fishing, you won’t be surprised to find rainbow trout, brown trout, black bass, crappie and bluegill at Lake Natoma.

PHOTO: Lake Shasta | Tripadvisor.com

SHASTA LAKE

Dubbed the largest reservoir in California, Shasta Lake is the perfect place to enjoy a summer day. During this time, Shasta is filled with jet skis, fishing boats, and almost anything that floats. What makes Shasta pretty unique as compared to the other lakes on this list is its houseboats that are available to rent. Apart from scenic views of the lake, there are also other worthwhile stops around it, including a free tour of the Shasta Dam, the second-largest dam in the country, at 602 feet.

PHOTO: Lake Tahoe | Visitrenotahoe.com

LAKE TAHOE

They call Lake Tahoe the “Jewel of the Sierra Nevada,” and the moment you see it, you get why. Lake Tahoe is a summertime paradise, a winter wonderland, and a year-round haven for magical mountain memories. Whether you visit South Lake or kick things off in hip-and-happening Reno, Lake Tahoe will not disappoint. The possibilities for fun at Lake Tahoe are endless from boating to parasailing or dining or gambling, you’ll have more of your fair share of fun at this lake.

5 Things to Do in Sac’s Lakes & Rivers

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:48:57 GMT

Looking for a weekend getaway on the water? Sacramento’s lakes and its renowned American River offer ample opportunity for rest or recreation. Here are our five top things to do on the water this summer in the Sacramento area.

RIVER RAFTING

A lazy day rafting down the American River is just what you need for a chill, but adventurous weekend. Not to be confused with whitewater rapid rafting (more about that later), calm rafting will allow you to float from historic Folsom to Sacramento, stopping at riverbank beaches or islands on the way. Check out American River Rentals in Rancho Cordova for self-guided river floats on beginner stretches.

Photo by Marco López on Unsplash

STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING

Next on our list is SUP or stand-up paddleboarding. If you’ve ever driven over the acclaimed Rainbow Bridge in Old Folsom, you most likely have spotted dozens of lake-goers making their way through Lake Natoma right beneath the overpass. Stand up paddleboarding is a great water activity for beginners and there are several places in the area to rent them if you don’t have your own. Check out SUP California in Folsom or the Sac State Aquatic Center in Gold River for rentals.

Photo by Jackalope West on Unsplash

WHITEWATER RAFTING

Take a raft on the wild side (of the Lower American River) with an immersive whitewater rafting tour. Sunscreen, an ice chest, food, and drinks should be a part of your adventure as you go through a 16-mile stretch through the lush river canyon, featuring Class III to IV+ rapids. If you go far enough, you will make it to the infamous Tunnel Chute rapid which courses through a 90-foot rock tunnel.

Several rafting companies offer guided one-day and multi-day trips down the Middle Fork in the summer. Meanwhile, experienced river runners with their own rafts or whitewater kayaks can take private trips down this dam-controlled stretch. Visit this site for more places to rent tubes or to reserve a tour.

Photo by Filip Mroz on Unsplash

KAYAKING

Pick a lake in the Sacramento area — any lake — and you’ll most likely be able to enjoy kayaking. Whether you go solo or with a friend, kayaking will offer you time to take in the lush landscape and wildlife of the area. Even if you’ve never gone before or if you’re a seasoned kayaker, the summer begs for you to indulge in this activity this year. It’s quite common to spot egrets, ducks, herons, osprey, or even eagles while kayaking lakes in the area. Check out our favorite lakes here.

GO FISHING

Both lakes and the American River are known for being some of California’s premier fisheries. Opportunities for year-round fly fishing on the Lower American River are available. Migrating steelhead, American shad, striped bass, and Chinook salmon all come through at different times of the year. In the summer, expect to catch yourself some trout.

6 Must-Hike Trails Around Sacramento

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:40:21 GMT

Plan your outdoor adventures around the California capital with our list of the best hikes around Sacramento. Put on your boots, slap on the sunscreen, and discover some beautiful Northern California landscapes. We've put together six trails to explore this spring. Even if you’re not into hiking, many of these trails can be tackled by biking or walking!

Photo: Jedediah Smith Trail by @luluflores_e

JEDEDIAH SMITH TRAIL (AMERICAN RIVER BIKE TRAIL)

Spring is the perfect time to go out for a nice bike ride, and Jedediah Smith trail is a great choice. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 11 hours and 39 minutes to complete. This trail is pleasant, with nice views of the river. It begins at Discovery Park in downtown Sacramento, and ends 31 miles away in Beal's Point in Folsom. There are several points of entry, so you don’t have to complete the trail in its entirety. https://tinyurl.com/4zfvawc9

Photo: Marshall Gold Discover State Historic Park

MARSHALL GOLD DISCOVERY STATE HISTORIC PARK

This area was known as the “beautiful valley,” originally inhabited by the Nisenan Indian tribe. Over time, it became a hotspot during the California Gold Rush. With its rich history, Marshall Gold Discovery State Park is the perfect trail to take a stroll. The best part– it’s only three miles long and is 45-minutes outside of Sacramento.

https://tinyurl.com/yc579z29

Photo: Darrington Trail by @sactownjesse

DARRINGTON TRAIL, FOLSOM LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA

Salmon Falls, also known as the Darrington Trail, is on the South Fork of the American River within the Folsom Lake State Recreation area. This trial is popular for both hikers and mountain bikers alike. Considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 8 hours to complete, so we recommend bringing plenty of water while you soak up the gorgeous views of the American River Valley.

https://tinyurl.com/23cd6d7r

Photo: Quarry Trail by Chris Aguilar

THE QUARRY TRAIL, AUBURN STATE RECREATION AREA

Located in the Auburn State Recreation area lies one of Sacramento’s most beloved trails. Quarry Trail is a 10-mile hike that is a wonderful escape into nature. Considered moderate difficulty it's perfect for both hikers and bikers. It’s also a fantastic place for viewing wildlife, with the potential to see bobcats, bears, deer, and more. The Quarry Trail has numerous opportunities for side hikes and loops, including junctions with the historic Western States Trail. Other scenic trailheads extend from the Quarry Trail parking area, including a short trail that leads to No-Hands Bridge.

https://tinyurl.com/35xdpur2

Photo: Lake Clementine Trail by Zach on Instagram

LAKE CLEMENTINE, AUBURN STATE RECREATION AREA

Lake Clementine is one of the multi-use trails in the Auburn State Recreation Area. Consider an easy trail of just two miles, it follows the banks of the North Fork of the American River and includes impressive views of the Foresthill Bridge, one of the tallest bridges in California. Following Lake Clementine Road for less than a quarter-mile, a cascading view of Lake Clementine Dam greets hikers near the end of the trail, complete with a constant mist-shrouded waterfall. This overlook is a great place to eat some lunch before hiking the two miles back to the trailhead.

https://tinyurl.com/bdztsy5x

Photo: Mount Diablo Summit by calparks.org

MOUNT DIABLO SUMMIT, MOUNT DIABLO STATE PARK

Last on our list is a popular trail known to be one of the most challenging hikes near Sacramento. Mount Diablo Summit is located in its namesake Mount Diablo State Park. The trail quickly rises to show off abundant views of the mountains and hills below, and on clear days, you can see out for miles and miles. It’s a strenuous workout to get to the top, and the trail is quite exposed with very little shade or cover. We recommend exploring this trail before the summer months, but come prepared with water, a hat, sunglasses, and lots of sunscreens to protect yourself.

https://tinyurl.com/2hd3npwt

Spruce Up Your Backyard This Spring with These Easy DIY Projects

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:26:33 GMT

Spring is a season of reawakening, restoration, and rejuvenation. During this time of the year, the longer days encourage us to spend more time in outside in our backyards or patios. If your backyard could use a revamp, after being overtaken by leaves, webs, and dust, try these DIY tips we found on Pinterest to give your outdoor space a makeover.

DIY BIRDSEED ORNAMENTS

Spring wouldn’t be spring without the sounds of birds chirping. Bird feeders look amazing on trees and can add a lovely ambiance to your yard. This DIY birdseed ornament is so easy, that even the kiddos will have fun making it. All you need is 4 simple ingredients, string, and cookie cutters.

onelittleproject.com/birdseed-ornaments

DIY OUTDOOR SEATING

Having a nice seating area is a must when it comes to an outdoor space. Patio furniture can be pretty pricy, and depending on the size of your yard, you may not find the perfect-sized seating that fulfills your needs. A creative solution is customizing your seating area by building your chairs and sofas. Materials needed are several 2x4 wooden planks, cushions, hardware, and power tools. Check out the tutorial by visiting the site below.

abutterflyhouse.com/diy-outdoor-sofa

Photo: DIY Rope Ottoman by Style Me Pretty

DIY OTTOMAN

A nice ottoman would pair nicely with your outdoor seating. Some of us might have an old tire in the garage or yard and can make some use of it. You can make a flawless boho style ottoman with just minimal materials and quick easy steps. All you need is an old tire, rope, scissors, and a glue gun. Paint is optional.

stylemepretty.com

DIY PRIVACY SCREEN

Privacy would be a great addition to spruce up your outdoor space. Nosey neighbors? Not a problem. The ugly wall you want to cover? Perfect solution. Want to add some shade? This will do the trick. A privacy screen is a practical multifunctional addition that can add some flair to your space. All you need is several wooden planks of various sizes, and hardware (paint and plant holders are a nice touch, but optional.)

craftedbythehunts.com/diy-privacy-screen

DIY ACCENT LIGHTING

Probably one of the easiest DIY projects on our list is accent lighting, used to set the mood. If you’re limited on space and only have a balcony to work with, you can add some fairy lights to planted pots you can simply add two bamboo sticks per pot and solar fairy lights to give your plants a nice touch. https://tinyurl.com/2p9bkww3

DIY FIREPIT

Although the weather is heating up during the day, at night when temperatures drop, a firepit is a great addition to a backyard. It can provide a cozy setup for friends and family to gather when the evenings get chilly and come in handy for nights when you just want to stargaze or make smores.

hertoolbelt.com/diy-backyard-fire-pit

3 Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors with Your Kids + Local Events

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:13:44 GMT

Playing outside is an important way for kids to get active and stay healthy both mentally and physically. This month, make plans with your kids to get out and enjoy the outdoors! We put together a list of ideas and events worth looking into this month in the Sacramento area.

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

1. GET FIT OUTDOORS

Incorporating family workouts that feel more like play is a great way to get everyone in your family off the couch, bonding, and burning calories. Whether you sign your kids up for spring sports (soccer, baseball, or swimming, for example), or join an outdoor yoga class, exploring fitness outdoors with the kiddos can be a win for the whole family.

Our Local Event Pick for Getting Fit With Kids:

BARC Family Fun Ride

May 14th, 2022 | 11 am - 1 pm

3450 Routier Rd., Sacramento, CA 95827

May is National Bike Month and BARC’s Family Fun Ride is a perfect start to encouraging outdoor fun and fitness. This event will feature a short bike ride from Lincoln Village park to the Mather Light Rail station. Some of the bicycle infrastructures the city has built will be showcased and, there will be frozen yogurt, food trucks, and booths to enjoy! https://tinyurl.com/2p9xrubr

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

2. ATTEND FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVALS

Now that the weather is nothing short of amazing and things have opened up here in the Sacramento area, gathering the kids up for some outdoor entertainment at festivals can be a great way to get the kids out of house and away from screens.

Our Local Festival Picks:

Sacramento Grilled Cheese Festival 2022

May 15th, 2022 | 11 am - 5pm

2115 6th St., Sacramento, CA 95818

This family-friendly festival has something for everyone! Bring the entire family to enjoy the one food you never outgrow... GRILLED CHEESE! There will be live music, games for every age group, bounce houses, and for the adults, there will be craft beer. https://tinyurl.com/4d39x48x

18th Annual International Kids Festival

May 28th, 2022 | 10 am - 4 pm

3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822

The International Kids Festival is an annual event that brings together thousands of families from Russian-speaking, Latino, Asian-Pacific, African-American, Hindu, and other communities. There will be fun the whole family can enjoy, such as pony rides, jumbo inflatables, rock climbing walls, miniature train rides, trampolines, face painting, and more!

https://tinyurl.com/2p86zk8e

Photo by Ron Lach on Pexels .

3. ENCOURAGE CHARITY OR COMMUNITY SERVICE WORK

Many towns and cities have entire days dedicated to encouraging the public to participate in community service projects. Not only will community service get your kids outdoors, it can also spark a love for helping others.

Our Local Charity Event Pick:

Foster Hope Fun Run - Benefiting FosterHope Sacramento

May 15th, 2022 | 8:30 am

601 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95816

FosterHope Sacramento is a local foster family agency that offer traditional foster care, community-based children and family services, and juvenile justice intervention programs. This month they will be hosting their first annual fun run event 5K and Kids Run!

There will be vendors, food trucks, and kids' activitie. The run will help support community-based programs to support children and youth in crisis. https://tinyurl.com/497k2jdr

4 TikTok Spring Cleaning Hacks to Make Your Home Shine

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 22:19:37 GMT

Spring is in the air as well as the dander, pollen, and dust that comes with it. While we’re excited to pull back our curtains, swing open our windows, and let our homes soak in warm sun rays, we’ve also got to roll up our sleeves and get to our annual spring cleaning rituals. Since the thought of tackling every dust bunny, stubborn stain, and pile of clutter can be overwhelming, we thought we’d find some hacks to make spring cleaning more efficient and easy this year. As it turns out, TikTok has some of the best cleaning hacks that are quite effortless. The following tips will have you feeding two birds with one scone!

Click here to view this hack!

CLEAN THE SHOWER AS YOU SHOWER

Showers can be covered with built-up dirt and grime, and when it's time to clean we usually drench our shower with cleansers, let them set, then get to scrubbing. According to @jessmapes , the best way to clean your shower is while you shower. All you’ll need is a brush equipped with a soap dispenser. Fill it with disinfectant dish soap and scrub the walls and floors while you shower. Talk about a win-win!

SWIFFER MOP MIRROR CLEANER

Not tall enough to reach the top of your bathroom mirror? Use @maizimmy's cleaning hack to remove watermarks and dust without having to get the stepstool. Simply spray your mirror with your go-to glass cleaner, attach a microfiber polishing cloth to a Swiffer Sweeper, and use the mop to wipe the mirror as if you were a professional window cleaner. Voila! No more streaks or tippy toes!

Click here to view this hack!

EFFORTLESS SPOTLESS MICROWAVE OVEN

@mama_mila_ shares her tips on how she cleans her oven while she sleeps. Simply mix together baking soda, Dawn dish soap and water into a paste. Line the inside of your microwave with it, and leave to soak overnight. Rub off the paste with vinegar and watch it all shine. So easy, most of the work can be done while you sleep!

STUBBORN TOMATO STAIN TUPPERWARE HACK

Tired of washing your tomato-stained plastic ware over and over with minimal results? Don’t toss it out! @Cleaningfever has just the trick! Simply pour hot water, dish soap and kitchen napkins in with the lid on, give it a good shake and leave it to soak. The kitchen napkins *should* suck up those nasty stains and leave your plastic as good as new.

Click here to view this hack!

While we may think we know all the classic ways of tidying our home, chances are there are still a few tricks out there we haven’t tried. Hopefully, these inventive hacks decrease your cleaning time and give you more time to enjoy the season!

6 Colorful Indoor Plants to Brighten Up Your Home This Spring

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 21:28:48 GMT

A colorful, eye-catching houseplant might be just the companion you need to freshen up your home this season. Imagine your living space with vivid plants and luscious green leaves… Revitalizing, right? We agree, and even if you don’t have a natural green thumb the list we put together features beautiful and durable plants that are easy to care for.

Photo by gryffyn m on Unsplash

POTHOS

This popular planet has a trailing vine and earned the nickname "Devil's Ivy" for its ability to withstand nearly pitch-black conditions as well as under- and over-watering. Not only is this plant one of the easiest to take care of, it’s also known to purify the air. Hang your Pothos plant to show off its stems or plant it in a pot to mingle with other plants. Wherever you put them, they will be a great addition to your home.

Photo by Gary Barnes

KALANCHOE

Kalanchoes are tropical perennial succulents that are very popular as houseplants as they also require very little care. This succulent does well with water retention and grows colorful bell-shaped flowers. Kalanchoes are resilient plants that can withstand dry climates and cold 45 degree temperatures.

Photo by Kate Branch

ORCHIDS

Orchids are stunning plants that can produce the most beautiful symmetrical flowers. Orchids are one of the oldest families of flowering plants, and their varieties can be found all over the world. Orchids prefer low light and humid climates, which is why they can thrive indoors. Fun fact: Orchids take about 5-7 years to bloom once germinated. The plants sold in stores are already decades old! At home, they’re easy to grow and can re-bloom several times a year.

Photo by Adonis Arias

CROWN OF THORNS

Crown of Thorns, also known as the Christ plant, is a succulent that can go for weeks without water. It’s a perfect house plant because it will produce flowers that bloom year-round. Colors can vary from white, pink, orange, and red.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

SNAKE PLANT

Snake plants are excellent go-to house plants as they are considered hard-to-kill plants. This plant can go for months with minimal water and have luscious green leaves that are typically stiff, sharp, spiky, with a snake-like pattern. Similar to Pothos, Snake Plants are also known for their air purification qualities. (They release oxygen at night). Most workspaces and homes have built-in air circulation systems, but more snake plants in spaces like this will help especially when the air conditioning systems are turned off during the night hours.

Photo by Daria Ivanenko

PEACE LILY

The white blooms make the Peace Lily a vibrant accent to brighten up a low-light room. These plants are great as they are prone to overwatering. With just the right amount of light, they can produce lovely white spear-shaped flowers all year long. In addition to being beautiful, Peace Lilies purify the air around them and remove harmful toxins from the air, such as ammonia, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.

Which of these plants will you add to your home this spring?

Ready for Tax Season: Here's What's New in 2022

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 21:11:35 GMT

The Coronavirus threw a couple of curve balls into the 2021 tax season—including giving us an extra month to file. We’re back to business as usual with the 2022 tax season, but there are a few changes.

Some new things this year include an increase in charitable giving deductions (if you don’t itemize) and the expanded Child Tax Credit (parents, you noticed some extra cash in your bank account or mailboxes last year, yes?).

In this article, we’ll dig into both of those changes, plus a few more.

The big tax deadline for all federal tax returns and payments is April 18, 2022 .

The standard deduction for 2021 increased to $12,550 for single filers and $25,100 for married couples filing jointly.

Income tax brackets increased in 2021 to account for inflation.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s dig into the details so you can file your taxes with confidence this year.

INCOME TAX BRACKETS INCREASED

For the 2021 tax year, the tax rates are the same—but there are some slight changes to the brackets. Basically, the brackets have been adjusted by a few hundred dollars from 2020 to account for inflation. Take a look at the chart below to see what tax bracket you will fall under this year.

Keep in mind that every situation is different as far as whether you should take the standard deduction or whether you should itemize. Talk to a tax pro to figure out what's best for you. We recommend contacting Khinh Hoang at PSG Certified Public Accountants in Roseville!

HIGHER STANDARD DEDUCTIONS

You have the option of taking the standard deduction or itemizing your deductions—calculating your deductions one by one. The rule of thumb is if your itemized deductions exceed the amount of the standard deduction, you should itemize. For tax years 2021 and 2022, the standard deduction went up slightly to adjust for inflation. Check out the table below:

CHILD TAX CREDITS INCREASED

If you got any checks in the mail or deposits in your bank account from the U.S. Treasury last year, that was the American Rescue Plan. It increased the Child Tax Credit from $2,000 to $3,600 for each child under age 6 and to $3,000 for each child 6–17. These were advance monthly payments ($300 per month for each child under 6 and $250 for each child 6 to 17) given out rather than having to wait until tax time for families to claim this credit.

While these advances were convenient, keep in mind that taking those payments last year will reduce the amount you get at tax time. Payments are based on your 2020 taxes, so if your income went up enough in 2021 to start closing in on the phase-out limit for the credit, you might consider opting out of advance payments.

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

MORE WAYS TO SAVE (DEDUCTIONS, DEDUCTIONS, DEDUCTIONS)

1. Charitable Deductions

The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 extended two charitable giving changes enacted by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The law allows you to deduct up to 100% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), which is your total income minus other deductions you have already taken, in qualified charitable donations if you plan to itemize your deductions.

2. Medical Deductions

If you found yourself with hefty medical bills last year, you might be able to find at least some tax relief (if you’re itemizing this year). Consult with a tax professional or do your research to find out if you have qualifying medical deductions. You can deduct any medical expenses above 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI), which is your total income minus other deductions you have already taken.

3. Business Deductions

If you’re self-employed (and only if you’re self-employed; not a remote W-2 employee), there are a bunch of deductions you can claim on your tax return—including travel expenses and the home office deduction if you use a part of your home to conduct business.

4. Earned Income Tax Credit

The EITC is a refundable credit designed to help out low- and middle-income households. The maximum adjusted gross income for a single filer with no children is $21,430, while the cap for a married couple with three or more children is $57,414. Depending on your income, your filing status and number of children, the credit could save you anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars on your taxes.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

The Sherri Patterson Team specializes in residential real estate and relocation, with a combined 75+ years of experience serving the Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer and Yolo counties. We work directly with hospitals, physicians and medical professionals. Whether you're looking to buy, sell or relocate to the Greater Sacramento area, we are the premier real estate team of choice. Our office is located at Keller Williams in Folsom, CA

Three Ways to Use Your Home Equity to Buy an Investment Property

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 20:59:12 GMT

If you’re a homeowner in Sacramento, chances are, you are equity-rich, and according to a 2021 study, nearly 50% of Sacramento homeowners are. With the typical home value hovering a little more than $480,000, you may have more than enough in your nest egg to purchase an investment property and begin generating income from collecting rent. But, how exactly do you use your equity to buy another home? In this article, we walk you through three types of ways to use equity to purchase a second home or as a down payment.

1. GET A HOME EQUITY LOAN

A home equity loan is a type of second mortgage that allows you to access the equity you’ve built in your home. Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe your lender – also known as the amount of your home that you actually own. You will receive the money with a lump sum payment that is then paid back to the lender in fixed installments over time.

PROS :

It can make buying a second property less expensive and give more liquidity to the buyer.
You can put down a larger down payment on your second home, get rid of private mortgage insurance, and potentially lower your monthly payments and interest rates.
Interest rates on a home equity loan are typically lower than rates on a hard money or personal loan.

CONS :

You are essentially turning assets into debt because you are taking the part of your home that you own and tying it up in another loan.
If either home’s value lessens, you may end up owing more on your mortgage and home equity loans, which can spread some homeowners too thin.

Interest payments on your home equity loan will not be tax deductible if used for a rental property

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

2. CONSIDER A HELOC OR HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT

A HELOC is similar to a credit card as it is a revolving line of credit, but you will be using your home’s equity as the line of credit. A HELOC will allow you to access and utilize the equity as you choose – up to a certain limit and within a certain time frame. With a HELOC, you can use as much or as little of your equity and pay it back over a period of time.

PROS :

HELOCs can offer more flexibility as compared to a traditional home equity loan.
Interest rates are usually lower than credit card interest rates.
A HELOC credit line is typically larger than a regular credit line as a lender will loan you up to 90% of your equity in a HELOC.
HELOCs usually don’t incur closing costs.

CONS :

HELOCs usually have higher closing costs and variable interest rates, which may mean paying more over time.

3. WORK WITH A REPUTABLE LENDER TO GET A CASH-OUT REFINANCE

A Cash-out refinance is a type of mortgage refinancing that allows you to take on a larger mortgage in exchange for your home’s equity. Unlike a second mortgage, a cash-out refinance doesn’t add to your monthly payment, but rather the length of the loan. Once you pay off your old mortgage, you simply begin to pay off your new one.

The process of a cash-out refinance is much like the process you went through for your primary mortgage. You choose a lender, apply, provide documentation and if you get approved, all there is left to do is wait for your check! Since rates are still considerably low, a cash-out refinance may be a good option to look into.

PROS :

Usually no additional monthly payment, making it more affordable than a HELOC
Will be given as a large, lump sum
You will have a single mortgage, not two

CONS :

Interest rates on cash-out refinances are typically higher than standard refinances, but still lower than hard money or personal loans
Similar to taking out a mortgage loan or refinancing, there will be closing costs

We encourage you to get in contact with our preferred lenders for more information and they will help you determine which use of your home’s equity is better for your situation.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Forget New Year Resolutions. Reset Instead & Achieve Any Goal

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:44:33 GMT

New year, new goals, right? But how many times have you set a New Year’s resolution just for it to fizzle out before Valentine’s Day? If your resolutions rarely come to fruition, it’s time to ditch them and hit your proverbial “reset button.” Here’s how to rethink goal setting with an approach that works, no matter how ambitious your New Year’s goals may be.

1. Prioritize Well-Being & Self-Care

It’s official — hustle culture is so 2019. It can be easy to overwork yourself, become overwhelmed, and get burnt out while in pursuit of your goals, but after nearly two years of the ups and downs of our COVID-19-induced “new normal,” working around the clock with hopes of great gains and rewards is counter-productive. This year, focus on taking care of yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally. Taking time to slow down, do less, and prioritize your wellbeing may actually improve productivity, according to a Forbes article asserts.

Photo by Kaylee Garrett on Unsplash

2. Keep It Simple

Rather than trying to adhere to a long list of diet changes, workout commitments and unachievable “relationship goals,” tackle the new year with a slow and steady approach. According to personal growth influencer Aileen Xu, you can create a simple reset routine that includes “organizing, self care, or taking care of life admin tasks.” Your reset routine should be made up of simple actions you can take when feeling overwhelmed, which will help you achieve a clean slate.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

3. Give Yourself Space & Grace

If you’re familiar with the feeling of not having enough time or energy to “do it all,” this year aim for consistent opportunities for rest as well as space and time to be intentional in diverting your attention away from long-term goals. Living in the here and now will help take the pressure off. By giving yourself grace, you will stress less when your to-do lists are incomplete.

4. Take (More) Breaks

Photo by S Migaj on Unsplash

Before you burn out or break down, be intentional with giving yourself consistent, frequent breaks throughout the day. Doing so will allow you to return to the more “important stuff” energized with more headspace and productivity. Try stepping away from your laptop for five minutes every hour. Stand up, walk around, grab a healthy snack. You’ll be amazed at how much more things you get done by giving yourself breathers.

What are you planning to accomplish this year? Comment below! We’d love to hear about your goals.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Celebrate Women Physician’s Day with Client Stories

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:34:54 GMT

What started out as a joke by male medical students in 1847, became what we recognize today as National Women Physicians’ Day. This is when we can honor the path that female doctors have paved since the 1800s. Women have made so many achievements in the field of medicine beginning with Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman in America to earn a medical degree. Our team thought we’d celebrate by sharing a few stories from some of our clients who are women physicians.

ASHLEY | UC DAVIS MEDICAL

Hi, I'm Ashley! I'm originally from Mesa, Arizona and moved to Sacramento 2 years ago to complete my Anesthesiology residency at UC Davis. My husband and I recently welcomed our first baby boy, Hudson. He is 3 months old and full of giggles:) We love anything outdoors whether it's hiking in the mountains or relaxing under the sun at the beach! One of our favorite activities is snuggling with our sweet Mini Aussies, Gracie and Lulu. The best part of being a doctor in Sacramento is all of the wonderful people I get to work with every day! Being a physician and a mother are two of the most challenging yet rewarding jobs and I feel so proud to be a woman in medicine.

LEXI MULLEN | SUTTER MEDICAL

“Hello! I work at Sutter! I’m a family medicine resident so I kind of work all over, in a bunch of different Sutter sites.

I grew up in the Sacramento area, so I love being able to serve this community as a doctor! Sacramento is an up and coming city that I love calling home. As primary care, I really enjoy getting to know my patients, especially in a community as lively and diverse as Sacramento!”

DR. SNEHA SWAMINATHAN | UC DAVIS MEDICAL

Hi! My name is Dr. Sneha Swaminathan, I’m a General Surgery resident at UC Davis Medical Center, and a relatively new transplant to Sacramento. My favorite part about being a surgeon is the planning, tools, and meticulous movements required to make an operation successful. My favorite part about being a doctor in this city is being able to treat the vibrant and diverse population that lives in or travels to Sacramento for care.

What do you love most about women physicians? Comment below!

About Our Team

2022 Relocation Guide to Sacramento is Here!

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:25:57 GMT

But… why would you want to move to the Sacramento area in the first place? Here are the top 10 reasons!

SACRAMENTO IS ONE OF THE MOST AFFORDABLE PLACES TO LIVE IN CALIFORNIA

Although property value is increasing steadily each year (the median home value was $434,700 at the time of publishing), it’s still very affordable as compared to homes in Southern California. The cost of living is 21% higher than the nation, but Los Angeles is 46% higher than Sacramento, to put everything into perspective.

WE HAVE TOP-RATED SCHOOLS

WE HAVE AN ABUNDANCE OF LAKES, RIVERS, HIKING TRAILS AND OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

OUR JOB MARKET IS LEGIT

If you are looking for a job when moving to Sacramento, be happy to know that you will not be looking for long. In 2021 alone, total jobs in the area have increased by 9%. There are now a total of 989,000 jobs available in the city and surrounding counties. Nowadays Sacramento has a variety of industries that run the economy and it is this job diversity that has made it into such a successful area.

THE WEATHER IS GREAT

Not sure if you want to call Sacramento your home just yet? Contact our team and we can schedule a tour to show you around!

Top 5 Places to See Christmas Lights in the Sacramento Area 2021

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 22:36:01 GMT

Every year, neighborhoods in the Sacramento area all the way from Folsom to East Sac dress to impress during the holidays. Here are the 5 best places to see Christmas lights and get into the holiday spirit in and around the Sacramento area.

IMAGINARIUM @ CAL EXPO

1600 Exposition Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95815 | www.imaginarium360.com

Through Jan. 16th, 2022

Imaginarium’s “Light Up the Night” is a family-friendly outdoor event taking place at Cal Expo in Sacramento. The event is brought to you by the producers of Global Winter Wonderland, which opened in 2011 in Santa Clara as the first-ever Chinese lantern festival to ever be held in the United States.

This year’s event is a new concept and is a more immersive experience featuring an incredible array of lighting displays, many of them interactive, responding to music and attendees. Guests will love walking through illuminated tunnels and the Field of Dreams aglow with over 30,000 roses arriving at Winter Wonderland. In total there are over three million LED lights, creating a unique and exhilarating event specifically designed for this year’s extended holiday season. There will be food vendors, awe-inspiring performers from around the world, your favorite carnival rides and games, and a 7,000 square foot laser tag arena that you won't find anywhere else. Prepare to be dazzled!!

2. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS DRIVE-THRU AT BAYSIDE CHURCH

6401 Stanford Ranch Rd, Roseville, CA 95678 | www.baysideonline.com/lights

Through Dec. 31st, 2021

Round up the crew, hop in the car, cue the holiday music, and immerse yourself in a colorful winter wonderland at Bayside Church Adventure’s 6th annual Christmas Lights Drive-Thru. This year’s drive-thru Christmas light show features a mile-long procession of brilliant lights designed to be enjoyed via car. Registration for free tickets is required to control traffic.

3. THEATRE OF LIGHTS OLD WATERFRONT SACRAMENTO

9346 Greenback Ln Suite 6, Orangevale, CA 95662 | www.godowntownsac.com

6pm & 7:30pm on select days through Dec. 24th

Theatre of Lights is a free holiday lighting extravaganza of nightly performances at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. It features a live-action retelling of Moore’s 1823 poem — “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” more popularly known as “’ Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

The highlight of the 20-minute production is a live dramatization on the balconies above K Street, complete with a special appearance by Jack Frost, and the lighting of the 60-foot Christmas tree by St. Nick himself.

4. CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK BAYSIDE CHURCH BLUE OAKS

10000 Alantown Dr. Suite 150. Roseville, CA | www.baysideonline.com/park

Dec. 10th & 11th, 17th & 18th

Brand new this year, join Bayside Blue Oaks as they pull out all the stops for an immersive Christmas experience in the Park--from Santa’s Workshop to snowball fights, inflatables, holiday crafts, and more! At the top of every hour, grab your loved ones as the Park comes to life with dazzling lights and joyous music. It’s the inspiring story of Christmas—a story of hope and joy. There’s Christmas cheer for all in this one-hour experience.

5. WILD NIGHTS & HOLIDAY LIGHTS FOLSOM ZOO

403 Stafford Street Folsom, CA 95630 | www.folsomzoofriends.org

Celebrate the magic of the season and help support the amazing animals at the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary. Thousands of colorful lights decorate the grounds, buildings and animal exhibits at the zoo. An enchanted forest of beautifully decorated trees provides a colorful backdrop for photos, carolers fill the air with seasonal cheer, and zoo bear mascot Santa Paws greets guests. This event also provides a unique opportunity to see some of the zoo’s animals who are more active at night, and zoo docents are on hand to share fun facts and answer questions about the animals. Come Experience the Holiday Magic!

SACRAMENTO NEIGHBORHOODS WITH THE BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

East Sacramento, CA | The Fab Forties

A Sac favorite, the Fab Forties during the holidays feature a brilliant spectacle of the most beautiful homes in Sacramento adorned by string lights and possibly the most lavish holiday decorations of any neighborhood. This is the ultimate combination of holiday cheer and charm.

Elk Grove, CA | Arcadian Village 8486 Mainstay Ct.

If you’re in or around Elk Grove, the famous Arcadian Villiage home boasts 80,000 lights. Tune to 107.9 FM and enjoy a synchronized show of reindeers and penguins dancing to 22 festive songs. Sunday through Thursday, the lights go on from 5:30 pm to 10 pm, while Friday and Saturday offer extended hours till 11 pm and also seasonal treats, such as candy canes.

FOLSOM NEIGHBORHOODS WITH THE BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Orangevale, CA | Dovewood Ct.

For a truly interactive Christmas lights experience, delight your senses with a bold display of flashing lights, iconic moving Christmas figures, sounds of cheerful holiday music classics, and the joyful chatter and laughter of delighted patrons at Dovewood Court in Orangevale! This cozy court is decked out to the fullest, and is truly a sight to behold! Bring the kiddos, and give them memories that will last for years to come.

ROSEVILLE NEIGHBORHOODS WITH THE BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Rocklin, CA | Pebble Creek Drive & Strand Road

Prepare to see all your favorite Disney and Christmas characters come alive in one neighborhood! Watch your children's faces light up with wonderment and delight. Grab a hot cup of cocoa for only $1, and give back by dropping off a canned food donation to help feed the hungry this holiday season!

Did we miss anything? What are your favorite places to see Christmas lights in the area? Send us a DM or comment on @sherripattersonteam. We'd love to check them out!

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Designers Can't Wait to Try These 5 Trends in 2022

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 22:18:49 GMT

Home decor trends are ever-changing, but according to Designer & Manager of Production Design at Living Spaces , Jessica Harris, you can expect design this year to be “perfectly imperfect.” Canopy beds, floral wallpaper (yes, we said ‘floral’) and vintage design will be all the rage this year. Here are the very best home decor trends in 2022 that you won’t want to pass by.

Photo by Lina Castaneda on Unsplash

1. Vintage is Making a Comeback

As designers are looking to more sustainable decorating options this year, vintage furniture is back, along with vintage-inspired textiles, fabric and patterns. Vintage steals the hearts and designer eyes of many because of its ability to transform ho-hum rooms to unique statement pieces. Find your next trendy vintage piece at a thrift store, flea market, Craigslist or even Facebook Marketplace.

Photo by PlanetCare on Unsplash

2. Canopy Beds Replace Upholstered and Sleigh Beds

While Upholstered headboards and wooden sleigh beds were a thing for a while, canopy beds are making an entrance this year, giving bedrooms a modern twist on the old king’s and queen’s quarters. Instead of draping four-poster beds with heavy fabrics, opt for minimalistic and sheer textiles instead.

3. DIY Accent Pieces Are More of a Thing

Whether you take a stab at an elaborate Pinterest DIY tutorial or complete a long put-off project, designers project a turn towards decor created by you as there will be a shift towards “mindful making,” the practice of creating to calm the mind. Who knows, you may love both making and showing off your own macrame flower pot or quilt.

Photo by Greg Rivers on Unsplash

4. Biophilic Design Creates Calm Spaces

Biophilic design has been gaining popularity with designers in recent years and we know why: Plant-filled interiors help create calming environments that connect us to nature. Studies show that having living plants in your home reduces stress and improves concentration and air quality. So for any of you who are planning to continue to work from home this year, try adding a plant or two to each room of your home, especially living areas and bedrooms.

Photo by BENCE BOROS on Unsplash

5. More Homes are Getting ‘Smarter’ and More ‘Techie’

Digital interior design was already rising before COVID, and now that designers and homeowners have practiced social distancing, we’ll see the efficiency of online interior design become even bigger in 2022. From smart security systems and doorbells, Alexa and Google Home/Nest devices to decor apps and virtual staging, homes are getting updated with tech.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

6 Things You Need to Know About the 2022 Real Estate Market

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 22:10:45 GMT

No doubt, the real estate scene in 2020 and 2021 was fast-moving, with both home values and sales surging to impressive numbers. With impending increases in mortgage rates as well as the end to many federal support and mortgage relief programs in the new year, the market will look a bit different around the end of 2022.

Here’s what the future holds for real estate in 2022, according to Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of REALTORS® and industry leader, Brian Buffini, who’s renowned for his historically accurate market predictions.

1. Unemployment Rate is at Pre-Pandemic Levels

Dr. Yun noted in Buffini’s Bold Predictions that the unemployment rate had reverted to its pre-pandemic levels, but “we are still short by four million jobs.” He attributed the number to various factors, including stimulus money incentivizing workers to stay out of the job market as they looked for higher-paying opportunities.

2. Multiple Offers Still a Thing, But Not as Hectic

Looking at the real estate’s performance heading into 2022, Yun stated that the multiple-offer frenzy that took hold in the spring of 2021 had died down with homes on the market a bit longer than before—albeit they are still selling fast.

“People rushed to buy homes during the pandemic,” Yun said, pointing to a 7% increase in home sales from 2020 to 2021—from 5.7 million to 6 million, respectively. Yun predicted, however, that there will be a 2% reduction in sales this year as mortgage rates increase.

Buffini predicted that by the summer of 2022, there will be less over the top offers as first time homebuyers will be pushed to their max with increased mortgage rates and higher inflation.

3. More Inventory in Spring 2022

The housing shortage in conjunction with high buyer demand increased competition throughout 2020 and 2021, though new construction of single-family homes has been increasing, and it is predicted that there will be more inventory in the spring of 2022 as compared to last year.

Yun also indicated that more people are likely to list their homes now that federal support and mortgage forbearance programs are either ended or are slated to end this year.

Photo by Greg Rivers on Unsplash

4. Mortgage Rates Will Tick Up to Nearly 4% by the End of 2022

Mortgage rates are predicted to climb to 3.7% by the end of 2022, affecting first-time homebuyers who may have been holding on getting in on the 2020 and 2021 market as they expected for prices to fall and/or the market to crash. Increased mortgage rates can make home buying unaffordable for some.

5. Heavy Competition in the Summer of 2022

With core inflation just under 5%, Buffini indicated that demand for real estate would tick up as people look to hedge against higher inflation, resulting in heavy competition through the summertime.

“Those first-time buyers are eventually going to reach a cap because of inflation and a slightly increased interest rate,” Buffini said, adding that agents will likely see a mid-year slowdown in entry-level and “move-up” housing market activity.

6. High-End Real Estate Will Soar in 2022

High-end real estate will be the last to change, according to Buffini, who forecasted that the luxury home market will “continue to zoom all year long.”

To listen to Buffini’s full interview with Dr. Yun, head over to his podcast .

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

15 Simple Ways to Show Gratitude to Everyone In Your Life

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 21:42:26 GMT

Extending gratitude to others can go a long way. A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health says helping others not only makes you feel good, but it may also help you live longer by lowering stress. This month, as a way to cultivate joy in your own life and the lives of those around you, begin expressing your gratitude in action. Here are a few ways you can start:

AT HOME

The workplace is a great place to extend your gratitude to colleagues or supervisors. While 26% of the U.S. workforce is handling their business remotely, acts of gratitude and kindness can not only foster community but a positive company culture as well.

Say “Thank You.” Too often we equate gratitude with gifts, and what people really want or need is to hear that they are contributing and they are valued. By saying thank you more often, and being specific about why you appreciate your co-worker or supervisor, you will keep motivation high. Get creative — you can write them a notecard or direct message them a funny thank you gif.
Offer Positive Feedback and Affirmations. Sending a quick message to your colleagues that says something like “You’re kicking butt in [fill in the blank]!” shows others that you value their contributions. Unsolicited positive feedback can lift someone’s mood, increase motivation and build loyalty.
Go Offsite. Invite your work buddies to an after-work social, where you can buy them a drink or appetizer. Doing this builds camaraderie and team culture.

Photo by Debbie Hudson on Unsplash

TO YOUR SPOUSE

When it comes to your special someone, it’s easy to forget to show gratitude or leave it only to special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. This month, take the time to show your loved ones you appreciate them. Here are three easy ways to love up on your spouse and show gratitude.

Give Your Spouse a Break. A few hours of quiet time might very well be No. 1 on your spouse’s wish list, especially if he or she is overworked or caring for young children. Giving your spouse some extra time to do some self-care while you take care of the chores or meals for the day, will give him or her an opportunity to indulge in relaxation, which we can all use a little more of these days.
Cook Their Special Dinner. If your spouse has a favorite meal and you haven’t whipped it up in a while (or have never done it), spend some time in the kitchen as a way to express gratitude for them. Make it fun. If their favorite type of food is Mexican or Sushi, for example, you can plan a Taco Night or Sushi night complete with decorations and a little hurrah.
Praise Him or Her to Your Children (Or Other Family Members). One of the best ways to show gratitude to your partner is to be more vocal about how much you appreciate him or her. When you speak well of your spouse in front of others, especially your children, all of that goodwill will rub off on them, encouraging them to say “thank you” to them as well. Get the kids in on your expression of gratitude by spearheading some thank you arts and crafts projects or getting them to help out with more chores.

TO YOUR PARENTS

Give Them a Call. One of the simplest, yet impactful ways to show gratitude for your parents is to call them more often. For parents whose adult children don’t call often may be wondering “Am I still important to you?” and “What is my role in your life?” Why not spare their feelings and show your parents how much you’re thankful for by simply calling and saying, “I love you and miss you.”
Help Around the House (Or Hire Someone to Help). If your parents are older, dedicate a Saturday afternoon to assisting them with chores or repairs. You can take a load off their hands by helping your parents finish a long-put-off project or simply by doing a deep-cleaning. Short on time? Hire a professional cleaner to stop by your parent’s house to provide their services.
Spend Time With Them. Nothing says thank you to parents like “I’m not too cool to hang out with you!” In most cases, there are not many things you can give your parents that they can’t give themselves, so giving your time is a beautiful way to express gratitude and build your friendship. Try taking a class with your mom or dad or do something you both enjoyed doing when you were younger.

Photo by Mathilde Langevin on Unsplash

TO YOUR CHILDREN

Use Positive Reinforcement, Really. It may sound cliché, but using positive words of affirmation and reinforcing good behavior is a great way to express gratitude towards your children. Your good words will make them feel appreciated and boost their confidence.
Cuddle Up & Get Cozy. Depending on the age of your children, you may have not gotten some good cuddles for a long time. Young people need to know that they are supported and loved, what better way than by giving hugs or cuddling up and watching their favorite movie or show with them.
Bake Their Favorite Dessert. Reward your children by throwing a bake night where all of you can bake a favorite dessert together. A molten chocolate lava cake or oatmeal raisin cookies . . . by baking together you get to get some quality time in and binge on some tasty treats.

Photo by Nicole Herrero on Unsplash

TO YOUR SIBLINGS AND BESTIES

Host a Gratitude Gathering. When it comes to your peers, including your brothers or sisters, hosting an intimate, chic dinner where you can make each guest feel appreciated and loved is a nice way to show gratitude, especially if you haven’t seen each other in a while. You can give your gathering a theme or keep it simple.
Send a Holiday Photocard. Did you recently have a baby or did one of your little ones lose a tooth? Sure, your peeps can see those pics on your social media pages, but nothing really compares to a photo print-out that can be posted on your loved ones’ fridges or framed. Many pro photographers are getting booked out this season, so be sure to contact your go-to photographer as early as possible.
Schedule in Some V-Time. The holidays tend to be some of the busiest times of the year, so it’s easy to get so busy to spend time with our buddies. This is where video chat comes in. If you’re not already on a regular video check-in schedule with your besties, set something up. Your friends will love seeing your face.

What are some of your favorite ways to show gratitude to others? Drop us a note or leave a comment.

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The Sherri Patterson Team | A Year in Review 2021

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 21:31:03 GMT

2021… we made it! Can we just give ourselves a round of applause!?

Many of us began this year with tons of questions about whether the world would be getting back to “normal” after the roller coaster we all experienced in 2020 due to COVID-19. Surely, some of us were met with fear and a lack of closure. Questions like:

Will Costco run out of toilet paper again?

Do our children have to spend the entire day at school in masks?

Will the real estate market crash? and of course,

Will the pandemic finally come to an end? flooded the minds of the best of us.

BUT—

In a unique way, we also were met with many wins . 77 countries around the world banned the use of plastic bags (Go green!), Juneteeth became a federal holiday, the United Nations officially declared 2021 the ‘Year of International Peace and Trust,’ AND the real estate market stayed as hot as ever.

For our team, we are extremely grateful for the opportunities we’ve had to connect with and help our clients who continued to refer us to their friends and family. Below we’ve shared a roundup of the highlights from this year…

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About our Team

A Year of Popbys | 2021 Client Appreciation Popby Gifts

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 21:01:38 GMT

One of our team's favorite ways to show our clients how much we appreciate them is by popping by with small gifts each month. We have a long tradition of creating and giving out our popbys, and love that it gives us the chance to meet and connect with some of our favorite people. Here’s a year of popbys that we put together in 2021. Which one was your favorite?

1. JANUARY | A GIFT OF GOOD FORTUNE, HEALTH & WELL-BEING

To welcome the new year, we gifted our clients fresh, juicy mandarins and oranges, fruits that are considered to bring good fortune (and boost your immune system). In fact, the words for tangerine and orange in Chinese resemble the words for luck and success, respectively. Their bright color also symbolizes gold, hence the fruits have a meaning of bringing good luck and wealth.

2. FEBRUARY | SUPERBOWL PARTY FIESTA PACKS

This year we wanted to give our clients something they can snack on during their Superbowl parties. The tortilla chips and salsa popbys were a great success.

3. MARCH | BATH & BODY WORKS HAND SOAP

To welcome in the spring cleaning season, we gave individual hand soaps from Bath and Body Works. “We’re SOAP’N you have a great day!”

4. APRIL | EASTER EGG FUN

We thought it’d be fun to give out Easter-themed popbys with bunny ears and plastic eggs for our clients who have littles. We’re sure they had tons of fun with this one!

5/6. MAY | DONUTS & MOTHER’S DAY TULIPS

Any of our long-standing clients know that we love to give tulips for our Mother’s Day popbys, but this year we also handed out some good ‘ol junk food (donuts) and had a blast with it.

7. JUNE | FATHER’S DAY ROOT BEER

Another popby mainstay is our gift of Dad’s root beer for father’s day. Whether our clients drink it to cool down as the summer heats up or make a root beer float, we know they love these!

8. JULY | GET GRILLIN’ CONDIMENT SET

A definite crowd favorite during the summer are our condiment sets. Complete with every condiment needed for those tasty grilled burgers and hot dogs, this popby is a summer fave.

9. AUGUST | EVERYTHING BAGEL BITES

Making their popby debut this year were our Everything Bagel snacks. We thought this one would be fun for all of our clients who needed something to snack on while their working from home!

10. SEPTEMBER | NIBBLERS POPCORN

Snacking was definitely our theme this year, so our September popby was Nibblers gourmet popcorn, which our clients loved.

11. OCTOBER | HARVEST FEST FRAMED PHOTOS

For all of our clients who joined us this year at our annual harvest festival received a popby with a framed photo of their family at the event. We LOVE doing this popby each year, being able to capture the amazing moments of our clients and their friends and family members.

12. NOVEMBER | GRATITUDE APPLE HILL PIE

This year, we hosted a gratitude gathering where our clients could popby our office and pick up a delicious frozen pie from Apple Hill. What a success!

What are some of your favorite popby gifts you received from our team? Let us know so that we can keep the gifts coming.

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About our Team

Where to Shop Local for the Best Holiday Shopping

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 20:33:39 GMT

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s not too early to begin your shopping showdown. Besides the largely known shopping centers in the area, such as Arden Fair , DOCO , Westfield Roseville , and the Palladio in Folsom , Sacramento boasts quite a few specialty stores, boutiques and shopping strips to snag some amazing gifts for everyone on your list. Check out some of our favorite local places to shop for the holidays.

What are your favorite mom and pop spots to shop for the holidays? Send us a DM or comment on @sherripattersonteam . We'd love to check them out!

SUTTER STREET IN FOLSOM HISTORICFOLSOM.ORG | @HISTORICFOLSOM

915 Sutter St. Folsom, CA 95630

With more than 30 retail stores and several tasting rooms, Sutter Street offers many shopping options with a small-town historic feel. Some of our favorite shops and workshops on Sutter Street include My Trendy Trailer @mytrendytrailer , Candle Bar @folsomcandlebar , Stone & Birch Boutique @stoneandbirchboutique and Romans Jewelry @romansfinejewelry , amongst the many restaurants and eateries.

ROD WORKS FOLSOM RODWORKS.COM | @RODWORKS

350 Palladio Parkway Folsom, CA 95630

At Rod Works, each and every product, no matter what it is, is made by hand from start to finish. If the person on your list loves that rustic, antique look, this is the place to shop. All the products are made to look antique. From mirrors to clocks to signs for the kitchen, you’ll find plenty of décor pieces with personality.

THE FEATHERED NEST THEFEATHEREDNEST.STORE | @THEFEATHEREDNEST.STORE

3264 Taylor Rd. Loomis, CA 95650

Created by three friends who wanted a space in NorCal that was tailored for the modern hostess, The Feathered Nest has distinct furniture and home furnishings for a refined, eclectic and vibrant home. If anyone on your list has an elevated taste that feels luxe yet warm, bespoke yet approachable, this little Loomis gem is a definite go-to for holiday shopping this year.

POPPY POPPYOV.COM | @POPPYSHOPOV

9346 Greenback Ln Suite 6, Orangevale, CA 95662

If you love shopping local, Poppy is a unique shop that boasts sarcastic coffee mugs, funny greeting cards, wooden children’s toys, clothes and an array of jewels and crystals. Shopping in person? Poppy is open on Fridays and Saturdays only!

TERRA COTTA BOUTIQUE TERRACOTTAGESHOP.COM | @TERRA_COTTAGE

426 Vernon St. Roseville, CA 95678

Owned by a local husband and wife duo, Terra Cotta is located in the historic downtown section of Roseville, and is filled to the brim with gorgeous apparel for women and children as well as home decor, gifts, soaps, candles, and items from local vendors.

TOGETHER MIDTOWN TOGETHERMIDTOWN.COM | @TOGETHERMIDTOWN

920 24th St. Sacramento, CA 95816

Created and owned by women, Together is a concept space with several boutiques and creative studios. Looking for unique or artisan-made gifts? Check out boutiques Purpose @shopthepurpose and Pomegranate @thepomegranateboutique , as well as a small-batch jewelry store @elysiantheory_ and several fun workshops at Sew Shop @sewshopsacramento .

Did we miss anything? Where’s your favorite place to shop locally for the holidays? Comment below or drop us a note @sherripattersonteam!

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About our Team

Renovating Your Kitchen? These 8 Countertops Are Trending

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 17:02:22 GMT

There are tons of options when it comes to choosing countertops for your kitchen renovation, but how do you know which one will work best for your home? We’ve dug around and narrowed the list to eight of the best materials that can not only give your kitchen that wow factor, but will also stand the test of time in terms of durability.

Have you recently renovated your kitchen? Show it off! Tag us on Instagram or Facebook on @sherripattersonteam . We'd love to see your finished look!

Pictured: Granite countertop by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

NATURAL STONES

(DURABLE, UNIQUE SLABS, REQUIRE SEALING)

GRANITE.

As one of the most installed countertop materials in the country, granite offers an endless amount of colors and pattern choices and can give your kitchen high-end appeal. Granite is also quite durable as it is impervious to heat.

MARBLE.

Marble countertops add class and timeless beauty to kitchens, with slabs that have unique veining. Though it is waterproof and heatproof, it is quite susceptible to staining and scratches. If your kitchen will be getting tons of use, marble may not be the greatest option.

QUARTZITE.

Resembling marble, quartzite is a porous, natural stone that is available in many beautiful colors and patterns, making it very popular. Because it’s easier to care for as compared to marble, it does well in high-traffic areas.

SOAPSTONE.

Now, if you really want to get trendy or add a rustic tone to your home, go soapstone. Typically available in darker shades such as gray and black with subtle veining, soapstone is highly stain and bacteria resistant. Because soapstone is a non-porous natural stone, it doesn't require yearly sealing and it hides stains and scratches fairly well. The best part, some damage to soapstone can be sanded out. What?!

Pictured: Quartz countertop by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

ENGINEERED STONE

(LOWER MAINTENANCE, STAIN, ACID, SCRATCH, & HEAT RESISTANT)

QUARTZ.

A modern homeowner’s fave, quartz is an engineered stone that was created as a more adaptable and better-performing alternative to granite and marble. Since quartz is non-porous, it does not require sealing; however, wiping up coffee, wine, and tomato sauce spills will prevent unwanted staining. Some of the most well-made and luxurious engineered stone are manufactured in the U.S. by Ice Stone and Caesar Stone .

NON-TRADITIONAL COUNTERTOPS

CHARISMATIC, ECO-FRIENDLY, HYPOALLERGENIC

Pictured: Cala Blue Silestone countertop, courtesy of Sunlit Days

RECYCLED COUNTERTOPS.

Created by cutting edge technology, recycled countertops come in a variety of sustainable and non-toxic materials including glass, concrete, paper, composite and plastic. They typically require less maintenance as compared to natural stone countertops, and are available in a wide range of colors and textures. If sustainability is one of your priorities, check out Sunlit Days’s Silestone collection made using 99% reused water, 100% renewable electric energy, and a minimum of 20% recycled raw materials in its composition.

WOOD OR BUTCHER BLOCK.

Showing up in many homes these days thanks to the modern farmhouse decor era, are wood or butcher block countertops. Choosing wood countertops has plenty of benefits — they are relatively easy to clean, can be sanded and re-stained in the future and can last for a long time if properly cared for. The best types of wood to use as countertops are maple or oak, but head over to your local Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Lumber Liquidators for selections that will add the charm you’re looking for.

Pictured: Butcher block countertop. Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash

STAINLESS STEEL.

One of the most hygienic countertops on the market, stainless steel, will definitely modernize your home, especially if you’re going for a contemporary, industrial look. It’s very easy to clean and is impervious to heat damage. Keep in mind, however, that stainless steel can be noisy, and easy to scratch.

Thinking about buying a fixer upper or doing renovations before you sell your home? Contact our award-winning team for a list of local contractors and service providers: 916-801-1105.

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Real Estate Prices Aren’t Falling this Fall… And other Predictions

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:47:22 GMT

If you’re anticipating the real estate market to cool to “cold” towards the end of the year, recent sales, statistics, and even a burned-down home in Boston (which was listed for $400,000 and went pending in under a week) prove otherwise. So… if a crash is not in the forecast, what should you expect to see in the upcoming months? We’ll walk you through what we know.

SUPPLY & DEMAND IS STILL IMBALANCED, BUT NORMALIZING

California Association of RealtorsAccording to the California Association of Realtors , the market remains far from cool, however, supply-demand is experiencing more of a “normal” imbalance, as compared to what it has been in the past year or so. More than 62% of transactions that closed in September closed above asking price, but that number is down from a peak of more than 70% in June.

HOMES ARE GOING PENDING IN LESS THAN 2 WEEKS

Data show that homes are still selling in less than 2 weeks, but buyers have a little bit more time and a little bit less competition for each listing. If you are looking to put your home on the market, now really couldn’t be a better time. It remains a seller’s market, and it’s still quite competitive for buyers.

Infographic courtesy of California Association of Realtors

MORTAGE RATES ARE INCREASING

This year, rates sat well below 3% for months, however, mortgage rates may finally be heading the way many housing experts have expected them to travel by this point in 2021: sharply upward.

If you did a refi or home purchase this year, taking advantage of the historically low rates, well done. If you’ve been delaying a refi because you’re expecting rates to fall further, consider speaking with one of our trusted lending partners to see what financial move would be in your best interest.

Since rates are still low but are expected to rise even more next year, if purchasing a home has been on your mind, now is the time to get together with our team to help you take advantage of this incredible market.

THE MARKET WILL APPRECIATE SIGNIFICANTLY

Though "crash" articles get clicks, real estate will appreciate at an above-average rate through late 2021 for three reasons–scarcity, utility and demand, according to Keith Weinhold, creator of the Get Rich Education real estate investment podcast. There is a shortage of 6.8 million housing units, and since the home is now the new workplace for millions of remote workers, demand is at its highest.

LOW INVENTORY IS HERE TO STAY (AT LEAST FOR NOW)

Simply put, there is a lack of inventory in the affordable housing space. Builders are building houses that the average American cannot afford. Inventory is continuously shrinking and there are more buyers than ever for that product. As a result, multifamily vacancies will go down and rents will increase.

SO, WHERE DOES THAT LEAVE YOU?

If you’re a seller, get out your champagne glasses, because now really is a time to celebrate. With low inventory and low-interest rates, our advice would be to take advantage of this market while it continues to favor you.

Keep in mind that interest rates are increasing, and according to recent data, despite a shortage of homes on the market because other homeowners are catching on to the benefits of selling right now, competition is increasing.

If you are considering selling your home, we encourage you to work with an experienced real estate team that can help you price your home right, get multiple offers and go pending in a reasonable time.

For more information on the current Sacramento housing market, contact our award-winning team! 916-801-1105

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4 Tips to Buying or Selling a Home During the Holidays

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:42:31 GMT

The holidays may not seem like an ideal time to buy or sell your home, but what if you can’t wait until the spring or summer to make a move? Whether you must relocate for a new job position, to be closer to family or to finish school, moving during the holidays may be something you have to do, but it doesn’t have to be hectic.

Here are four tips to buying or selling a home during the holiday season.

1. START PLANNING AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE

Depending on the size of your home and the number of belongings and furniture that needs to go during the move, you’ll need to plan for taking at least three to four solid weeks to pack up. If your work-life does not allow for you to put in much time for this, employ a professional packing and moving company to help you expedite the move. If you wait until the last minute to pack and organize your things, you’ll find yourself rushing the process and adding unnecessary stress.

To make packing easier, consider utilizing a portable storage unit, which can hold a truckload of items during your transition. Our favorite local company is UNITS , owned by our preferred partner Sam McKillip. They serve over 400 cities in the United States and can help make your move easier.

2. DIAL DOWN THE DECORATIONS

If you’re selling your home during the holidays and anticipate showings around Thanksgiving or Christmas, do your best to keep decorations, presents and fluff to a minimum. Instead of a huge tree with tons of ornaments, opt for a mini tree that won’t take up a lot of space. To be festive and minimalistic, play holiday music and bake some seasonal cookies instead of having stuff that crowds the space.

You may even consider celebrating your main events at a family’s or close friend’s home instead of hosting it at your home. This will eliminate the need to overdo it and keep your home nice and neutral. Even if you’re planning to relocate or buy a home during the holidays, it’s best to keep it simple. If you play it small, there will be less clean up, less clutter and a lot less organizing when the time comes to move on.

3. BE KIND TO YOUR CHILDREN

If you’re planning to uproot your kids in the middle of the school year, be prepared to help them with this adjustment period. This may mean having a few sitdowns before, during and after the move to check in on them emotionally. Communicate the importance of having to buy or sell your home during the holidays, while validating their feelings about the move. Stay positive! Moving can be tough for your kids, but you can acknowledge how they feel and help them to transition by being there for them.

In terms of getting all of your ducks in a row, make sure their important documents and school records are transferred to the new school(s) accordingly. For the most part, this means transcripts; report cards; immunization records; any academic testing the child has undergone; and other various files and records. Most schools have a holiday vacation the week of Thanksgiving and between Christmas Eve and New Years, so be sure to make arrangements to get copies of any necessary documentation before the office staff heads out for the holidays.

Photo by Ann Danilina on Unsplash

4. MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS SECURED

Unfortunately, home invasions and robberies increase during the holiday season. SafeWise reports (per the FBI) that 400,000 burglaries take place every year in the U.S. during the November and December months. To secure your home, make sure you set up a security system either before you put it on the market and if you’re moving set up a system before or right after moving in. Call your security system provider a few weeks prior to the move to schedule a time for them to come out and install the system in your house. With easier access to camera systems such as Ring and Google Nest, you can feel more secure knowing your home is safe.

We know that moving during the holidays can be stressful and hope that these tips help. Please reach out to us to help you make your move easier.

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Simple Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor!

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:36:47 GMT

After 18 months of on-and-off social-distancing, mask mandates and quarantining, it's really easy to get caught up in our own little bubble and forget about how we’re making an impact on those around us. Many of us have also relocated during this time and lost all sense of community as we have not been able to socialize the way we typically would.

Well, the good news is just by putting yourself out there and trying to be a better neighbor, you are doing something to strengthen your community ties. Every act, big or small, can help, and you don't need to donate a million dollars to a cause or go on a humanitarian mission to bring something to your community.

So if you're wondering how to start, we've rounded up some ideas below. Have an idea we didn't include? Send us a DM or comment on @sherripattersonteam . We'd love to hear it.

SAY HELLO

We'll start with an extremely easy one. Just the act of smiling, saying hi, and being friendly to your neighbors, strangers, etc., might make their day better. And it doesn't take much effort at all. The next time you're passing someone on the street, coming across a person in public, or interacting with a cashier or server, don't look away. Just give them a smile or a quick hello.

KEEP UP YOUR CURB APPEAL

Just one ugly home in a community can reduce property values for the entire neighborhood. Hence, you don’t want to become known as the owner of “that ugly house” — i.e., the one with knee-high grass, overflowing gutters, dirty windows, peeling paint or toys scattered across the front yard.

BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER

Not everyone is a dog or cat lover, so show responsibility for your pets. Start with pet etiquette 101: Clean up after your pooch. When you take your dog for a walk, do not deposit your dog’s poop bag into someone else’s trash can. It sounds basic, but it happens a lot.

PICK IT UP. TRASH, THAT IS.

There's always something floating around--a sandwich bag, the empty box that blew out of your neighbor's recycling last night, the occasional stray sock. Your efforts to beautify your neighborhood will surely be appreciated, and (hopefully) emulated by those who take notice.

ABIDE BY COMMUNITY RULES

When you live in a homeowners or condo association, you have to comply with the community’s rules. Still, a lot of people don’t take the time to review their association’s rules. These rules may dictate parking restrictions, trash and recycling schedules, landscaping requirements, move-in procedures and more. Breaking your association’s rules can not only result in fines but also ruffle feathers with neighbors.

BE A RESPECTFUL PARTY HOST

Keeping music at a reasonable noise level when you’re throwing a party is common sense. An aspect people frequently overlook, though, is minding where their guests park. The last thing you want is for your guest to block your neighbor’s driveway.

SUPPORT A LOCAL BUSINESS

It's always smart to shop local, but now it's especially important. If you love your neighborhood boutique, restaurant, bar, coffee shop, et.c, frequent them. Right now, you can buy gift cards, order delivery or pick-up (if it's available and safe to do so), and tell your friends, family, and others about the business.

START OR JOIN A GROUP

If your neighborhood has a NextDoor, Facebook Group or online message board, consider joining it. It's a good way to stay in touch with others and look for ideas on how you can provide support.

All neighborhoods have their own personalities. Some tend to be more open to socializing, while others are made up of people who prefer to stay to themselves. Regardless of the type of neighborhood you live in, there are still some basic etiquette rules you should follow to be a good neighbor!

Looking for a new place to call home? Contact our award-winning team to find a community that’s a good fit for your family and lifestyle: 916-801-1105.

Learn more about our team here.

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Think You Can’t Afford To Buy a Home? Let’s Look at the Numbers

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:30:01 GMT

If you’re hesitant to enter this crazy seller’s market and not sure what you can afford to buy, there’s good news. Mortgage rates are at historic lows and more and more homes are hitting the market.

Rather than letting the high price tags of homes discourage you, we recommend connecting with a lender to determine what your monthly mortgage would be. Since you live with the payment (not the price of your home) you may be surprised to find that today’s low mortgage rates make homeownership much more affordable.

Below are some of the most common mortgage scenarios to help you get an idea of what a monthly payment will look like based on the duration of the loan and a 20% down payment.

CONVENTIONAL 30-YEAR FIXED MORTGAGE

Even at the highest interest rate in our example, a $300,000 home translates to about a $1,100 monthly payment. The only thing to keep in mind, however, is that if you are putting down less than 20%, you will be required to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) in most cases. This is a fee (0.55% to 2.25% of the total loan) lenders tack on to protect themselves from default, and it can be divided up and added to your monthly payment.

CONVENTIONAL 15-YEAR FIXED MORTGAGE

If you have the budget to expedite owning your home (i.e. no more mortgage payments), a 15-year fixed loan may be a good option for you. The main advantage of a 15-year mortgage is all the money you'll save on interest since you're paying on it for only half as long as a 30-year mortgage. Here’s what typical monthly payments look like on a 15-year fixed with 20% down.

Wondering what your mortgage options look like? Let our team connect you with one of our excellent lenders who can help you navigate the current mortgage rates. Give us a call!

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Should You Renovate Your House Before Selling It?

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:19:12 GMT

There’s plenty to consider when getting your home ready to hit the market. From pricing it right and timing, to whether or not you should stage it, before the For Sale sign goes up, important decisions must be made. With all of that, there’s also another major thing to consider and one of the most commonly asked questions we get from sellers . . . “Should I renovate the house before selling it?”

Sure, giving your home an HGTV makeover can seem like the best way to compete in the market, but the real questions are will it really give you the return you’re looking for, and is it worth your time, money and energy?

Since millennials make up a large portion of the buyer market, you must consider that 48% of young buyers desire a turnkey house that requires little maintenance, Business Insider recently reported. But with current lumber shortages and recent cost increases associated with labor and material, a high-end remodel can be upwards of $150,000.

Truth is — not all renovations are created equal when it comes to raising your home’s value. In this article, we’ll cover the renovations that are proven to have a good return on your investment as well as impress buyers.

Pictured: Granite countertop by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

INTERIOR PAINT *RECOUPS UP TO 109% OF COSTS

A new coat of paint can freshen up the look of your home, while also making it appear larger. Choose warm, neutral colors such as gray and greige, the current best colors for selling a house, according to a recent Rocket Mortgage article . If you decide to paint your home yourself, you will save on labor costs and the project for a standard 1,200 sq ft home will cost around $967-$1,112. If you are short on time or aren’t confident you will do a good job, enlist a professional painter, which will cost anywhere from $2 to $6 per sq ft.

Our local go-to painting professional is Mark Gallagher with MPG Painting , who can provide a free estimate on painting your home.

Photo by Chastity Cortijo on Unsplash

MID-RANGE BATHROOM REMODEL *RECOUPS UP TO 60% OF COSTS

Buyers these days are understandably drawn to updated kitchens and bathrooms, so if your bathroom is outdated or will push buyers away, you should definitely look into renovating it. With a good contractor on your side, this sort of project will take roughly four weeks to complete and will cost about $24,000 or so. If this price tag scares you, you can consult with one of our trusted lenders at Delta Lending or Big Valley Mortgage , or Nu American Mortgage to discuss if refinancing for major home improvements is a good idea for your situation. You can also opt for small cosmetic changes that will give buyers the feeling that your bathrooms are newer and more modernized such as:

Removing wallpaper and replacing it with a modern, neutral coat of paint.

Installing hardware on drawers, cabinets and closets.

Replacing dated light fixtures and fluorescent lighting with LED fixtures and bulbs.

Repainting or refacing bathroom cabinets.

Swapping out your countertops for new ones (a relatively inexpensive upgrade).

For every $1 spent on bathroom renovations , you can expect to make back $1.71 in home value, according to a recent Zillow article.

Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

MID-RANGE KITCHEN REMODEL RECOUPS UP TO 57% OF COSTS

Another show-stopper when it comes to wow-ing buyers shopping for homes is a beautifully remodeled kitchen. Costing as much as $75,000 for a mid-range remodel, an updated kitchen ranks high on millennial homebuyer’s priority lists.

There are less expensive ways to modernize your kitchen. In fact, according to Consumer Reports , spending as little as $5,000 on your kitchen can bring up to 7% back in returns when you sell. Some of these smaller changes can include

Replacing old and broken appliances with new, Energy Star-certified models.

Applying a fresh, neutral coat of paint to the walls and updating the backsplash.

Repainting the cabinets and replacing the hardware.

Installing stone, quartz or recycled countertops.

Photo by Ralph (Ravi) Kayden on Unsplash

COSMETIC LANDSCAPING RECOUPS UP TO 80% OF COSTS

No doubt, the exterior of your home will make the first impression on your buyers, whether they are looking at photos of your home online or if they’re stopping by in person. It’s worth the cost and effort to spruce up your curb appeal. If homes on your block have taken it up a notch by trimming trees and laying fresh sod, you may want to do so as well.

Do things like mowing the lawn, trimming shrubbery and touching up the paint or stain on your fence. If you hire a professional landscaper and depending on the extent of your landscaping, you can spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars freshening up your landscaping. No worries, this is one the best renovations you can make on your home before selling, as it is more affordable and recoups the majority of cost spent as compared to other renovations on the list.

GARAGE DOORS RECOUPS UP TO 94% OF COSTS

Replacing your garage door can cost as little as $1,500 and because of its affordability and how much of the cost you can recoup in the sale, it’s one of the best ways to increase your home’s value. When replacing your garage door, make sure that the finished look should complement your home’s style.

Still not sure which renovations you should do before you sell your home? Contact our award-winning team to help you determine which upgrades will best suit your timeline and budget: 916-801-1105.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Where to See A Show in the Sacramento Region!

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 16:58:56 GMT

Good news, music fans: The next few months are going to be jam-packed with great tunes as concerts and the theater returns to the Sacramento region.

As Californians get vaccinated and the state lifts mask mandates, local venues have decided to open their doors and reintroduce in-person shows this summer, bringing back an aspect of pre-pandemic life for fans, artists and the venues themselves.

Below we’ve put together a comprehensive list, courtesy of the SacBee , of venues an the top shows to see this year. Know of another venue or event worth highlighting? Let us know!

BROADWAY SACRAMENTO

1510 J St., No. 200, Sacramento

Contact: 916-446-5880

Show to see:

Hamilton

Location: SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center, 1301 L St., Sacramento

Dates: Sep. 15 to Oct. 10

Tickets for shows through 2021

Golden 1 Center

GOLDEN 1 CENTER

500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento

Contact: 888-915-4647

Shows to see:

Papi Juancho: Maluma World Tour

Date: Sep. 2

Time: to be determined

Tickets

Alejandro Fernàndez

Date: Sep. 11

Time: to be determined

Tickets

Gold Over America Tour

Date: Sep. 29

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Kane Brown

Date: Oct. 1

Time: to be determined

Tickets

Toyota Amphitheatre

TOYOTA AMPHITHEATRE

2677 Forty mile Rd., Wheatland

530-743-5200

Shows to see:

Jonas Brothers: The Remember This Tour

Date: Aug. 28

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Jason Aldean: Back in the Saddle Tour 2021

Date: Sep. 23, 2021

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Brad Paisley

Date: Sept. 30

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Luke Bryan: Proud to be Right Here 2021

Date: Oct. 10, 2021

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

The Doobie Brothers - 50th Anniversary Tour

Date: Oct. 14, 2021

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Ace of Spades

ACE OF SPADES

1417 R St., Sacramento

Contact: 916-930-0220

Shows to see:

Beartooth: The Below Tour

Date: Aug. 17

Time: 6 p.m.

Tickets

Pvris

Date: Aug. 30

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Between the Buried and Me: An Evening with

Date: Aug. 31

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

1515 J St., Sacramento

Contact: 916-808-5181

Shows to see:

Louis the Child: Euphoria Tour

Date: Sep. 18

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

The 85 South Show Live

Date: Oct. 2

Time: 8 p.m.

Tickets

Brothers Osborne: We’re not for Everyone

Date: Oct. 16

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Bert Kreischer: The Berty Boy Relapse Tour

Date: Dec. 17

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Harlow’s Sacramento

HARLOW’S

2708 J St., Sacramento

Contact: 916-441-4693

Shows to see:

Rakim

Date: Aug. 12

Time: 9 p.m.

21 and older

Tickets

Agent Orange

Date: Aug. 19

Time: 8 p.m.

Tickets

Stevie Redstone

Date: Aug. 21

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Electric Six

Date: Sep. 3

Time: 8 p.m.

21 and over

Tickets

THE TORCH CLUB

904 15th St., Sacramento

Contact: 916-443-2797

B STREET THEATRE

2700 Capitol Ave., Sacramento

Contact: 916-443-5300

Shows to see:

Louis Prima Jr. and the Witnesses

Date: July 30

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Greg Adams & East Bay Soul

Date: Aug. 7

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Mick Martin’s Big Blues Band

Date: Aug. 28

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Ray Charles Project

Date: Sep. 2

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Crest Theater

CREST THEATER

1013 K St., Sacramento

916-467-3356

Shows to see:

The Mother Hips

Date: July 10

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

Happy Together Tour

Date: July 12

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Date: Sep. 10

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

An Evening with the Monkees

Date: Sep. 14

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

GOLDFIELD TRADING POST

1630 J Street, Sacramento

916-476-5076

Shows to see:

Hill Country Truckers

Date: July 17

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets

Lost Dog Street Band

Date: Aug. 27

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets

Weathers

Date: Sep. 15

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets

Quarry Park

AMPHITHEATER AT QUARRY PARK

4000 Rocklin Rd., Rocklin

916-625-5200

Shows to see:

Warrant

Date: July 17

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets

Parmalee

Date: July 30

Time: 7 p.m.

Tickets

AUBURN STATE THEATRE

985 Lincoln Way, Auburn

530-885-0156

Shows to see:

The Drowsy Chaperon

Dates: Sep. 4 to Sep. 19

Times: vary

Tickets

AST Presents: The Brubeck Brothers Quartet

Date: Sep. 24

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

AST Presents Ann Hampton Callaway Diva Power

Date: Oct. 1

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets

Small Business Shout-Out: Pool Time Pool & Spa

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 16:11:07 GMT

COVID-19 has affected the way many local businesses serve our community, causing some to lose business, cut employees, and even shut down. The Sherri Patterson Team is doing something special to support some of our favorite small businesses and restaurants in the greater Sacramento area. Throughout the pandemic, we will do a “Small Business Shoutout” to encourage our clients, friends, and family members to support them.

This month’s Small Business Shoutout is Pool Time Pool & Spa serving the Greater Sacramento Area. Sherri caught up with Joe to learn more about one of their recent remodel jobs and what residential and commercial swimming pool services they offer.

Where to Contact Pool Time Pool & Spa:

11363 Pyrites Way,
Gold River, CA 95670

916-638-7665

Services Offered:

Remodeling & Renovation

Weekly Pool Service

Green Pool & POOLRX

Leak Detection

Pool Inspection Reports

Full Service Construction

NPT Pool Finishes

UWC Pool Finishes

NPT Pool Tile

Fencing, Nets, & Covers

Water Cleaners & Filtration

Energy Efficient Pumps

Control Systems

Lighting & Water Effects

Fountains & Fire Pits

About Pool Time

Pool Time Pool & Spa is privately owned by Sacramento native Joe Paglucia for over 30 years, supported by a team of experienced pool professionals. They are dependable artists and bring the highest quality into what they do, always emphasizing customer service as a top priority. They love creating a special outdoor living space for family and friends.

What We Like Best About Pool Time Pool & Spa

Family owned

30+ years of experience!

Experts at pool maintenance and upgrades/remodels

Great customer service

Follow them on Instagram @pooltimeandspa

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Is the Sacramento Housing Market Finally Cooling Off?

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 16:05:32 GMT

Houses in the Greater Sacramento area have been selling left and right for months, but new data from the Sacramento Association of Realtors shows things have slowed down.

According to the statistics from this past July , there was an 8.6% decrease in sales from June. Median sales prices also dropped almost 2% from $520,000 to $510,000.

The data also shows that July’s bidding-war rate was the lowest since January, according to Redfin , a technology-powered real estate broker.

These recent headlines have many buyers and sellers wondering if the market will finally cool down this fall?!

ARE WE HEADED FOR A CRASH?

While we are seeing a bit of slowdown, this is 100% normal for the late summer/fall months. Typically as the kids head back to school and people wrap up their summer travel plans the market shifts a bit. Although real estate took off and has not slowed own since fall 2020, this is not the norm. The market is still extremely competitive, homeowners have a lot of equity, inventory is limited and mortgage rates are extremely low, which are all factors that will prevent the market from a crash in the near future. Even if things do cool a bit over the coming months, homes are expected to continue to appreciate through the rest of the year and we are still very much in a seller’s market.

BUT PEOPLE SAID THE SAME THINGS BEFORE THE 2008 CRASH, RIGHT?

Here’s the difference: financially, we’re in a very different place. The root cause of the 2008 crash was bad lending practices, such as offering predatory subprime mortgage products. Since then, the federal government has put stricter lending regulations in place, and lenders are doing more due diligence to make sure they lend to qualified buyers.

When forbearance and foreclosure protections end, it’s possible that we’ll see another flood of foreclosures on the market like we did in 2008. However, with the number of qualified homebuyers on the market, it’s likely that any foreclosed homes will sell quickly.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR BUYERS?

Bring your A game if you want to buy the home of your dreams this year. Although you may only be competing with 5-6 other offers this fall (instead of 25), you will still be up against some competition. But don’t worry—there’s a bright side for buyers too.

If you’re getting a mortgage, rates are still looking as good. In 2021, the annual average interest rate for a 15-year, fixed-rate mortgage hit an all-time low at 2.29%. 21 The way things are looking, rates seem like they’ll stay pretty low through the end of the year and into 2022.

That means you’ll probably still have a good chance of locking in a lower-than-average mortgage rate. And for the record, lower rates are a good thing because they mean a lower monthly payment and less of your money going toward interest over the life of the loan. Woo-hoo!

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR SELLERS?

Sellers out there can feel pretty good about the rest of 2021. If that’s you, you might want to put your house on the market sooner rather than later while inventory is still low. There are plenty of buyers out there, but experts are predicting more people will sell within the next year, meaning you’ll have more competition.

If you work with an experienced agent, you’ll be able to capitalize on home prices, navigate multiple offers, and find the right buyer. With an expert by your side, you should have no problem selling your house at a great price this year

For more information on the current Sacramento housing market, contact our award-winning team!

916-801-1105

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Celebrate Dad with Our Father's Day Gift Guide!

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:43:06 GMT

Updated 6/2/2021:

Struggling with what to get the dad who has it all?! Below we’ve shared some of our team’s favorite Father’s Day gift ideas, from heartwarming personalized gifts to unique yet practical finds that can be found online. Just be sure to check shipping options and place your order in time (Father’s Day is June 20th)!

Axe Throwing Experience

Prices Vary | The Smart Axe

Axe throwing has become all the rage the last few years! Take dad out for a fun afternoon of channeling his inner lumberjack and see what kind of skills he has. A fun adventure for the whole family (with adult children)!

Designer Shoes from Taft

Starting at $198 | Taft Shoes

For the stylish dad! These bold boots and sneakers are made in Spain and feature high-quality raw materials that last. Offering a variety of styles from traditional to eclectic, you’re sure to find some stylish and versatile footwear to add to dad’s wardrobe.

Top Golf Gift Card or Experience

Prices Vary - Roseville Location

Golfing ranges are so passé. Help dad work on his swing in the comfort of his own bay, with drinks, snacks and good company. Bonus: this doubles as a gift for you as well, if he lets you tag along!

A Quality Timepiece

Starting at $319

Give dad the gift of more time! Ok, not really… but you can make sure he shows up on time and in style with a brand new watch! For a classic design check out Tailsman Jewelers in EL Dorado Hills and for something a bit more rugged (and eco-friendly) we love the Jord wooden collection.

Talisman Collection in El Dorado Hills

Jord Wooden Watches

A Local Brewery Experience

Prices vary

Sacramento is home to many top breweries and distilleries! Instead of gifting dad something traditional, spend some quality time with him while sampling local craft beers or spirits at one of these favorites…

Burning Barrel , Moonraker , Slice Beer Company , New Glory , Fieldwork , Kathrin’s Biergarten , Hillenbrand Farmhaus Brewery , J.J. Pfister, Distilling (Bourbon/Whiskey)

A Custom-Made Book

$29.99 | Wonderbly

Cue the tears! The personalized “I Love You This Much” Daddy Edition by Wonderbly allows you to customize a darling 38-page book for dad featuring your own kid’s name and likeness.

Larq Self-Sanitizing Water Bottle

$95.00 | LARQhuckberry.com

Larq bottles use the same tech for a different end goal: keeping the bacteria out of dad's water bottle. This bottle is well-insulated, sleek in design, and even has an Adventure Mode that kicks the sanitizing into high gear.

On-The-Go Coffee Mug

$24.99 | Yeti Rambler

Your not-so-average joe deserves a great cup of joe! Get him a cool camp mug, like this Yeti Rambler and pair it with some of his favorite beans.

Genetic Ethnicity + Traits Test

$119.00 | amazon.com

DNA kits do more than just tell him about which countries his family is from — they also help build surprising connections and help him understand his roots more. This particular edition lets him discover more about how his genes influenced his appearance and provides a more precise ethnicity estimate.

uKeg GO Growler

$99.00 | GrowlerWerksbespokepost.com

Should he want to take ice-cold, freshly carbonated beer with him to a picnic, campsite, or even just the backyard, this is the way to do it. Here's hoping he shares it around.

AirPods with Wireless Charging Case

$169.00 (15% off) | amazon.com

AirPods are changing the music- and podcast-listening game. Dad will wear these wireless headphones everywhere, all the time.

Acorn Moc Slipper

$45.00 | Acorn

Acorn is becoming one of the most popular brands for high-quality slippers, and its moccasin style is perfect if you're looking for a slipper with a stylish edge. It features a memory foam footbed and a durable outsole for outdoor use.

Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless Steel 14-Piece Grill Set

$43.50 | Amazon

If your family plans on having lots of backyard barbecues this summer, a brand new grill set can come in handy. This kit comes with a spatula, tongs, silicone basting brush, four pairs of corn holders and a cleaning brush.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

2021 Mid-Year Sacramento Real Estate Market Update

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:12:19 GMT

The Sacramento region real estate boom is still in full swing. As we wrap up half the year, Sherri shares what experts are predicting for the next 6-months, why we're not in a housing bubble and how to take advantage of this red hot market! Watch the video below to learn more…

National Market Snapshot

Buyers are flooding the market to take advantage of record-low mortgage rates; many with a sense of urgency based on expert forecasts for a steady rise in rates and home prices. And high buyer demand paired with record-low housing inventory is creating the ultimate sellers’ market, making it a fantastic time to sell your house.

Over the next six months you can expect to see new construction pick up and more sellers entering the market due to forbearance programs being phased out and an increased comfort level with having people in our homes. This should help curb the inventory crisis and rapid appreciation we’ve seen over the past year.

According to Chief Economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, Dr. Lawrence Yun, we may see a slight dip in home prices later this summer, but there is still enough pent up buyer demand to prevent any major drop.

Regional & Local Market Trends

Sacramento home prices soared in May, hitting another all-time high ($498,500)! Median home prices in the region have risen by 26.2% year-over-year, setting new records both regionally and locally.

While the entire country is experiencing incredible growth, it’s not surprising our local market remains a standout. Since the spring of 2020, buyers are looking for homes that can offer:

Desirable location and outdoor amenities

Solid and diversified local economy

Population diversity and entrepreneurship

Remote work capabilities

[MUCH] more space and larger homes

All of which can be found in Sacramento’s diverse and eclectic neighborhoods!

Are We In A Bubble?

Did you know the most Goggled question regarding real estate today is, “Are we in a housing bubble?”

To accurately answer this question it’s important to take a trip down memory lane and revisit the conditions that led to the 2008 recession. Shady loans with adjustable rates, homeowners with extremely low equity and a surplus of inventory were driving factors in the real estate market crash.

This time around things are much different. Banks are better funded, homeowners hold more equity, and most homeowners have fixed rate loans. On top of this, the inventory shortage and buyer demand is not a smokescreen.

So while home prices have rapidly increased, most experts have agreed it is due to supply and demand, not a real estate bubble.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Sacramento Wildfire Season 2021 Survival Guide: How to Prepare!

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:03:08 GMT

A combustible combination of hot, dry weather, high winds and parched soil and vegetation from prolonged drought create the perfect conditions for wildfires. It’s why experts say everyone in the Sacramento area should be concerned, especially during what they fear could be a long and severe 2021 fire season.

With that in mind, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and other agencies offer tips on how people can get ready to protect their families and their homes from fire and smoke in the next few months, whether they live in an urban-wildland interface area in Wine Country, the foothills or in communities closer to Sacramento.

Here are some tips to help you and your family prepare and the days get hotter and the weather gets drier.

Emergency Alerts Notification System

Review important documents

Make sure your homeowner and renters’ insurance policies and personal documents, such as IDs, are up to date. Consider also whether your homeowners insurance is sufficient, and whether it will fully cover the cost to rebuild your home and replace its contents.

Create a “defensible space”

Reduce or eliminate all fire-prone vegetation, debris, furniture and other types of combustible fuels from around your home, creating a perimeter up to 30 feet. Creating this buffer can be one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to protect your home, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“Harden” your home

Ideally, you’ll have installed a roof made out of Class A-rated fire-retardant material and have decks and siding likewise made of fire-safe materials. A retrofit checklist from Cal Fire also recommends covering all vent openings with 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch noncombustible corrosion-resistant metal mesh screens.

In the more immediate term, and at no cost, you can clear dead leaves and pine needles from your roof, gutters, decks and base of walls and trim tree branches that overhang the roof and chimney. You should continue to maintain your home and property throughout the fire season.

Create a family evacuation plan

Put together a “go bag,” as recommended by the American Red Cross and Cal Fire, that has copies of important documents, a flashlight, first aid kit, disinfectant, pet food and supplies and items for each family member, including medications, a change of clothes and a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water.

Cal Fire also recommends remembering “the Six Ps” for evacuation: people and pets; papers, phone numbers and important documents; prescriptions, vitamins, and eyeglasses; pictures and irreplaceable memorabilia; personal computer and external storage; and “plastics” (credit and debit cards).

Designate how you’ll gather up pets and make sure utilities are turned off and windows are closed (so embers don’t fly in). Know your escape route from your neighborhood, and arrange a meeting place outside the fire area in case people get separated. Ask a friend or relative to be a point of contact. Find more Cal Fire tips at www.readyforwildfire.org .

Prepare for smoke

Designate at least one room in the home that can be closed off to outside air, and invest in a portable air purifier and N95 respirator masks. Experience from past years shows that it’s better to do so sooner rather than later, because supplies may run out at the height of fire season.

N95 masks also should be more readily available than they were during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, but experts caution that they have their limitations. The EPA says they need to be worn properly to keep out smoke particles, and not for long periods of time. In addition, N95 masks don’t provide oxygen and don’t filter out toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, that are present in wood smoke. Above all, experts say people should stay indoors as much as possible on smoky days.

For more information on being prepared, visit SacramentoReady.org . For up-to-date information on available resources in the event of a disaster, visit 2-1-1 Sacramento.org .

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Why Waiting to Buy A Home Could Cost You A Small Fortune

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 16:50:12 GMT

Many people are sitting on the fence trying to decide if now’s the time to buy a home. Some are renters who have a strong desire to become homeowners but are unsure if buying right now makes sense. Others may be homeowners who are realizing that their current home no longer fits their changing needs.

To determine if they should buy now or wait another year, they both need to ask two simple questions:

Do I think home values will be higher a year from now?
Do I think mortgage rates will be higher a year from now?

Let’s shed some light on the answers to these questions.

Where will mortgage rates be a year from now?

Today, mortgage rates are hovering around 3%. However, most experts believe they’ll rise as the economy continues to recover. Any increase in the mortgage rate will also increase a purchaser’s cost. Here are the forecasts for the first quarter of 2022 from four major entities:

Freddie Mac – 3.5%

Fannie Mae – 3.5%

National Association of Realtors – 3.5%

Mortgage Bankers Association – 3.9%

The projections average out to 3.6% among these four forecasts, a jump up from where they are today.

Where will home prices be a year from now?

If you average the most recent projections from the major industry forecasters, the expectation is home prices will increase by 7.7%. Let’s take a house that’s valued today at $325,000 as an example.

If the buyer makes a 10% down payment ($32,500), they’ll end up borrowing $292,500 for their mortgage. Applying the projected rate of home price appreciation, that same house will cost $350,025 next year. With a 10% down payment ($35,003), they’d then have to borrow $315,022.

Therefore, as a result of rising home prices alone, a prospective buyer will have to put down an additional $2,503 and borrow an additional $22,523 just for waiting a year to make their move.

What does it mean to you if home values and mortgage rates increase?

A buyer will pay a lot more in mortgage payments each month if both of these variables increase. Assuming a buyer purchases a $325,000 home this year with a 30-year fixed-rate loan at 3% after making a 10% down payment, their monthly principal and interest payment would be $1,233.

That same home one year from now could be $350,025, and the mortgage rate could be 3.6% (based on the industry forecasts mentioned above). That monthly principal and interest payment, after putting down 10%, totals $1,432.

The difference in the monthly mortgage payment would be $199. That’s $2,388 more per year and $71,640 over the life of the loan.

Add to that the approximately $25,000 a house with a similar value would build in home equity this year as a result of home price appreciation, and the total net worth increase a purchaser could gain by buying this year is nearly $100,000. That’s a small fortune.

When asking if they should buy a home, many potential buyers think of the non-financial benefits of owning a home. When asking when to buy, the financial benefits make it clear that doing so now is much more advantageous than waiting until next year.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Pups on the Patio: Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 16:35:41 GMT

Sacramento residents are a passionate breed when it comes to breaking bread with their dogs in tow and local restaurateurs roll out the red carpet for furry canine companions. We’ve got a plethora of patios where you can bring a pup when you dine out. Keep in mind that we’re talking about well-mannered pets that won’t take a bite out of anyone or anything else.

Did we miss one of your (and your dog’s) favorites? Let us know in the comments!

Bella Bru Café | Carmichael, El Dorado Hills & Natomas

With locations in Carmichael , El Dorado Hills & Natomas , Bella Bru is THE spot for dining with doggos. Their inviting outdoor patios are spacious and relaxed, with heaters in the winter and plenty of shade in the summer. The menu features café-style fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner, like salads, pizza and sandwiches.

Photos courtesy Bella Bru

Poor Red’s BBQ | El Dorado

Poor Red’s has been a staple in El Dorado since the 1940s, when the previous owner won it in a dice game. It’s been dog-friendly ever since, and the rumor has it the owner’s dog once ran for office, but lost. Since then, it became renowned for its famous barbecue, as well as its signature cocktail, the Golden Cadillac .

Photo courtesy Poor Red’s

High-Hand Café | Loomis

With a focus on farm-fresh, locally-grown ingredients, High-Hand Café in Loomis is a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal. Adjacent to a nursery, it also has lovely landscaping on its pleasant outdoor patio. The menu focuses on salads, sandwiches and pizzas, and they have a large selection of local beer and wine as well.

Photo courtesy High-Hand Cafe

The Shack | East Sacramento

This casual joint in East Sacramento has been serving up diner-style fare since the 1930s! The dog-friendly patio has tropical landscaping and water dishes for your furry friends, while the menu offers casual American food like burgers and hot dogs. Plus, the extensive beer list serves drafts from around the globe.

Photo courtesy The Shack

Pangaea Bier Café | Curtis Park

This popular neighborhood spot in Curtis Park is known for its dog-friendliness, and its outdoor patio is large enough to accommodate even the biggest pooch. They have an extensive beer list and specialize in gourmet comfort food, like their famous house burger, which has won the top prize in the Sacramento Burger Battle.

Photo courtesy Pangaea

Sweetie Pie’s | Placerville

Located in a historic home in downtown Placerville , Sweetie Pie’s is a good bet for those looking for a hearty breakfast or lunch. They specialize in omelets and scrambles, and have an on-site bakery that turns out decadent cinnamon rolls, pies, cakes and other baked goods. Plus, their charming patio welcomes dogs!

Photo courtesy Sweetie Pie’s

Burgers & Brew | Davis, West Sacramento & Downtown

With locations in Davis , West Sacramento and Downtown , Burgers & Brew caters to the dog-loving crowd with their welcoming outdoor patios and casual vibe. Unsurprising, the menu focuses on burgers, with beef, buffalo, lamb and turkey available, plus a variety of creative toppings. They also pour a wide selection of craft brews.

Photo courtesy Burgers & Brew

Cafeteria 15L | Downtown

This sleek downtown eatery not only has sharp interior design, but its outdoor design is modern and upscale as well! Comfy seating, fire pits and lush greenery make it an inviting oasis — one that welcomes your four-legged friend. Menu options run the gamut and feature upscale comfort food like truffle tots, braised short ribs and grilled ham and cheese, plus artisan cocktails.

Photo courtesy Cafeteria 15L

Savory Café | Woodland

This farm-to-table eatery in Woodland is all about locally-grown, seasonal ingredients. Their breakfast and lunch menus feature a wide variety of dishes, from waffles and sandwiches to pasta and salads. The quaint outdoor patio welcomes dogs.

Photo courtesy Savory Cafe

Piatti | Arden Arcade

Not only does Piatti in the Arden Arcade area welcome dogs, they also provide water bowls and house-made treats! The Italian-inspired menu features pizza and pasta (all of it made from scratch in-house), as well as entrees like salmon and filet mignon. They also have a selection of mostly-Californian wines, and have live music on weekend evenings.

Photo courtesy Piatti

Monkey Cat | Auburn

Another spot that offers treats for dogs, Monkey Cat in Auburn has a quaint patio with tropical décor. The upscale menu is casual but elevated, with dishes like soy ginger ribs, steak tacos, scallop risotto and chicken cordon bleu. They also offer fruity cocktails and local wine.

Photo courtesy Monkey Cat

Best Cities in the Greater Sacramento Area for Young Families

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 22:48:22 GMT

Updated 6/7/2021:

Feel like you're being priced out of Sacramento's top neighborhoods? You're not alone! Home values appreciated by about ten percent in 2020, and they’re forecast to appreciate by about 5-7% percent this year. However, there are still some hidden gems and local pockets offering affordability, great schools and access to everything our beautiful area has to offer.

By comparing factors such as home values, education, income growth and a crime risk score, we’ve identified some of the best places to start your search for the Northern California community that’s right for you and your family. Here are our team’s picks!

EL DORADO HILLS

Nestled in the foothills northeast of Sacramento, El Dorado Hills focuses on serving families and providing a good education for students. The El Dorado Community Services District organizes holiday events throughout the year for kids, and manages the “hills” of the community, which includes more than 100 acres of parks. activities from golfing to sailing on nearby Folsom Lake.

FOLSOM

With places to play at Folsom Lake and the American River, Folsom boasts a great Sacramento County location with excellent public schools, many with high scores on the state’s most recent Academic Performance Index report. The annual American River Salmon Festival and Folsom’s trails around the lake help connect the suburban community to nature.

LOOMIS

Loomis offers residents a suburban rural mix feel and attracts buyers looking to live in a safe, tight-knit community that still has small town charm, but modern amenities like freeways and bigger cities just a few minutes away. There are a lot of local mom-and-pop restaurants and shops, as well as easy access to parks and highly-rated public schools. Loomis offers any type of housing you might be looking for, from large lots of land to high-density housing with no yard maintenance.

ROSEVILLE

Known for its shopping malls in the Sacramento area, Roseville sports a lively downtown. In May, June and July, families have the chance to see live bands and visit farmers markets in one place at Downtown Tuesday Nights. Roads, sidewalks and parking lots in Roseville accommodate traffic and also offer plenty of parking, and the city continues to improve its streets with new sidewalks that reflect the growth in the region.

ROCKLIN

This quiet middle- to upper-middle-class suburb sits in rolling hills close to Folsom Lake and within an hour’s drive to downtown Sacramento. The community’s schools in the Rocklin Unified School District include several California Distinguished Schools — Breen Elementary, Valley View Elementary and more. Affordable housing also makes this area attractive for families, with the median home list price of $562,500.

ELK GROVE

Elk Grove is the largest community in the top 10, with 158,455 residents. The city’s median home list price of $495,000 is affordable compared to both Northern California at large and to other Sacramento-area communities in our top 10. Elk Grove Unified School District is one of the largest in the state, covering 320 square miles and serving more than 62,000 students. The city is home to over 90 parks, the Emerald Lakes Golf Course, an aquatic complex and swim center and trails for recreation. Annual events in Elk Grove include the Giant Pumpkin Festival, the Elk Grove Multicultural Festival, Elk Fest and the Art Americana Faire.

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About our Team

Where to Adopt a Pet – Local Shelters!

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 22:29:16 GMT

Spending more time at home? Have the time to foster and/or adopt an animal? You’re not alone! The greater Sacramento Area has seen a spike in pet adoptions during COVID-19 due to more people working from home, not traveling as much and having more time to bond, train and work with their animals.

If you’re looking to open your home to a pet, these local shelters are a great place to start your search.

BRADSHAW ANIMAL SHELTER

With over 1,000 positive reviews, this shelter is popular choice for those looking to adopt a dog, cat, rabbit other animals. Bradshaw Animal Shelter is processing adoptions by appointment only on a first-come, first-serve basis. Review their adoption process at: https://bit.ly/39g70lY before giving them a call. https://www.facebook.com/BradshawAnimalShelter/

916-875-2287 | 3839 Bradshaw Rd, Sacramento, CA 95827

Open 9:30am-3:30pm, Closed Mondays & Holidays

FRONT STREET

Another popular choice in Sacramento! Front Street takes in over 10,000 animals a year and relies on the community to find a forever home for these pets. They are accepting adoption and foster requests by appointment only. https://www.facebook.com/FrontStreetAnimalShelter

(916) 808-7387 | 2127 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95818

Open daily 12pm-5pm

ELK GROVE ANIMAL SHELTER

A city-run shelter serving Elk Grove featuring a variety of cats and dogs. You can view their available pets online and contact them to schedule a meet and greet. http://www.elkgrovecity.org/city_hall/departments_divisions/animal_services

(916) 687-3042 | 9150 Union Park Way, Elk Grove, CA 95624

Open Tuesday-Sunday 12pm - 6pm

PLACER COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICE

A city-run shelter serving Placer County featuring a variety of cats and dogs. You can view their available pets online and contact them to schedule a meet and greet. https://www.placer.ca.gov/animal

(530) 886-5500 | 11232 B Ave, Auburn, CA 95603

Open Monday - Saturday 9am-5pm

ALL CREATURES ANIMAL RESCUE

A local non-profit founded by Barbara Reagan, who after a family tragedy, found her new purpose: rescuing and working with animals. They focus on training, rehabilitation, socialization, and other training techniques to ensure pets are ready for their new home. https://www.allcreaturesanimalrescue.com/

(844) 390-0882 | 3453 Ramona Ave, Sacramento, CA 95826

Open daily 9am-5pm

HAPPY TAILS PET SANCTUARY

Happy Tails values the life of every cat and dog by providing compassionate care and cage-free shelter for homeless animals and working toward ending overpopulation and mistreatment. http://www.happytails.org/

(916) 556-1155 | 6001 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819

Open Wednesday - Sunday 12pm - 6pm

FOOTHILL DOG RESCUE

Foothill Dog Rescue is a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to re-homing dogs from high-kill shelters and dogs from owners who can no longer care for them. http://foothilldogrescue.org/

(530) 676-3647 | 4131 S Shingle Rd, Shingle Springs, CA 95682

Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 12pm - 6pm

HOMEWARD BOUND GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE & SANCTUARY

Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue & Sanctuary, Inc. is an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 organization which rescues and heals displaced, abandoned, and homeless Golden Retriever and Golden mixes, regardless of their age or health. They secure safe, loving homes through a comprehensive adoption program, and also provide lifetime sanctuary for Goldens that cannot be adopted. https://homewardboundgoldens.org/

(916) 655-1410 | 7495 Natomas Rd, Elverta, CA 95626

Open weekends

NORCAL COCKER RESCUE

Based in Sacramento, and serving the greater Northern California area, NorCal works with public shelters to place at risk Cocker Spaniels and Spaniel mixes in loving forever homes and also serves as a resource regarding the unique needs of the Cocker Spaniel breed. https://www.norcalcockerrescue.org/

(916) 541-5149 | 3450 Palmer Drive, Suite 4-261 Cameron Park, CA 95682

View dogs by appointment only

NORCAL AUSSIE RESCUE

NorCal Aussie Rescue, is a California State nonprofit public benefit corporation. They rescue, evaluate and then place wonderful Australian Shepherds in just the right new home. They do not adopt out of state. https://norcalaussierescue.com/

530 268-1600 | 10556 Combie Road #6200 Auburn, CA 95602

View dogs by appointment only

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About our Team

Small Business Shout-Out: Edio Vinyards & Winery

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 22:08:44 GMT

The coronavirus pandemic has affected the way many local businesses serve our community, causing some to lose business, cut employees, and even shut down. The Sherri Patterson Team is doing something special to support some of our favorite small businesses and restaurants in the greater Sacramento area. Each month, we will do a “Small Business Shoutout” to encourage our clients, friends, and family members to support them.

This month’s Small Business Shoutout is Edio Vineyards and Winery at Delfino Farms in Apple Hill. Sherri caught up with the farm to find out how they’re keeping clients safe and happy during COVID-19.

Check out our video shout-out to Joan's Bakery here: https://youtu.be/a8o4eqIujV0

Where to Find Edio Vineyards and Winery at Delfino Farms

3205 N. CANYON RD. BLDG 1
CAMINO CA, 95709

(530) 622-0184

When to Visit

Thursday - Monday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Meet The Delfino Family

To us, the Delfino name means family, hard work, community service, and, of course, agriculture. Edio and Joan Delfino, with their seven children, started their farm in 1964 and today, the legacy lives on! Chris Delfino, and his four children, Christine, Peter, Benjamin, and Derek own and run Delfino Farms—second and third generation. We are proud of where we came from and look forward to many generations of farming to come.

Join the Wine Club!

Join their wine club or order a bottle of wine: https://shop.delfinofarms.com/Wines/All-Products

How Delfino Farms is Serving Clients During The Pandemic

Edio Winery opened their tasting room and is open for reservations.

What We Like Best About Edio Vineyards

Family owned
Delicious wines, hard cider and pies!
Fun & friendly staff
Amazing scenery

Follow them on Instagram @delphinofarms

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Are We in a Housing Bubble in Sacramento?

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:54:42 GMT

Home values appreciated by about ten percent in 2020, and they’re forecast to appreciate by about 5-7% percent this year. This has some voicing concern that we may be in another housing bubble like the one we experienced a little over a decade ago. Here are three reasons why this market is totally different.

This time, housing supply is extremely limited

The price of any market item is determined by supply and demand. If supply is high and demand is low, prices normally decrease. If supply is low and demand is high, prices naturally increase.

In real estate, supply and demand are measured in “months’ supply of inventory,” which is based on the number of current homes for sale compared to the number of buyers in the market. The normal months’ supply of inventory for the market is about 6 months. Anything above that defines a buyers’ market, indicating prices will soften. Anything below that defines a sellers’ market in which prices normally appreciate.

Between 2006 and 2008, the months’ supply of inventory increased nationally from just over 5 months to 11 months. The months’ supply was over 7 months in twenty-seven of those thirty-six months, yet home values continued to rise.

Months’ inventory in Sacramento County has been between 1-2 months for the last fourteen months, under 1 month for the last six months, and currently stands at 0.7 months – a historic low.

Remember, if supply is low and demand is high, prices naturally increase.

This time, housing demand is real

During the housing boom in the mid-2000s, people got caught up in the frenzy and bought houses based on an unrealistic belief that housing values would continue to escalate.

The mortgage industry fed into this craziness by making mortgage money available to just about anyone, as shown in the Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) published by the Mortgage Bankers Association. The higher the index, the easier it is to get a mortgage; the lower the index, the more difficult it is to obtain one. Prior to the housing boom, the index stood just below 400. In 2006, the index hit an all-time high of over 868. Again, just about anyone could get a mortgage. Today, the index stands at 122.5, which is well below even the pre-boom level.

In the current real estate market, demand is real, not fabricated. Millennials, the largest generation in the country, have come of age to marry and have children, which are two major drivers for homeownership. The health crisis is also challenging every household to redefine the meaning of “home” and to re-evaluate whether their current home meets that new definition. This desire to own, coupled with historically low mortgage rates, makes purchasing a home today a strong, sound financial decision. Therefore, today’s demand is very real.

Remember, if supply is low and demand is high, prices naturally increase.

This time, households have plenty of equity

Again, during the housing boom, it wasn’t just purchasers who got caught up in the frenzy. Existing homeowners started using their homes like ATM machines. There was a wave of cash-out refinances, which enabled homeowners to leverage the equity in their homes. From 2005 through 2007, Americans pulled out $824 billion dollars in equity. That left many homeowners with little or no equity in their homes at a critical time. As prices began to drop, some homeowners found themselves in a negative equity situation where the mortgage was higher than the value of their home. Many defaulted on their payments, which led to an avalanche of foreclosures.

Today, the banks and the American people have shown they learned a valuable lesson from the housing crisis a little over a decade ago. Cash-out refinance volume over the last three years was less than a third of what it was compared to the 3 years leading up to the crash.

This conservative approach has created levels of equity never seen before. According to Census Bureau data , over 38% of owner-occupied housing units are owned ‘free and clear’ (without any mortgage). Also, ATTOM Data Solutions just released their fourth quarter 2020 U.S. Home Equity Report , which revealed:

“17.8 million residential properties in the United States were considered equity-rich , meaning that the combined estimated amount of loans secured by those properties was 50 percent or less of their estimated market value…The count of equity-rich properties in the fourth quarter of 2020 represented 30.2 percent, or about one in three, of the 59 million mortgaged homes in the United States.”

If we combine the 38% of homes that are owned free and clear with the 18.7% of all homes that have at least 50% equity (30.2% of the remaining 62% with a mortgage), we realize that 56.7% of all homes in this country have a minimum of 50% equity. That’s significantly better than the equity situation in 2008.

This time, housing supply is at a historic low. Demand is real and rightly motivated. Even if there were to be a drop in prices, homeowners have enough equity to be able to weather a dip in home values. This is nothing like 2008. In fact, it’s the exact opposite.

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About our Team

Saving Strategies to Reach Your Financial Goals

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:20:57 GMT

Does the topic of saving money make you feel a little guilty? You have good intentions when it comes to saving money, but something always comes up. The car needs new tires, the teenager needs braces, the house needs a new roof—and just like that, saving money takes a back seat to life stuff. So you put it off. You tell yourself you’ll find ways to save money once you reach a certain milestone, like when you hit a specific age or get that raise you’re after.

But in reality, you’ll only start saving money when you learn healthy money habits and let your future needs be more important than your current wants—aka when you make saving money a priority. And you don’t need everything to magically line up perfectly before you start saving. There are plenty (and we do mean plenty) of practical ways to save money and breathe some fresh air into your budget.

Cancel automatic subscriptions and memberships

Cut down on groceries

Save money automatically

Spend extra or unexpected income wisely

Reduce energy costs

Check your insurance rates

Lower your cell phone bill

DIY . . . everything!

Skip the coffee shop

Sell things (that don’t bring you joy)

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About our Team

Ways to Get Your Offer Accepted in a Hot Market

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 20:22:12 GMT

Currently in The Greater Sacramento Area, we’re experiencing a multiple offer craze. So, how can you make your offer stand out and get accepted in a competitive market? Below are several tactics we’ve used to help clients successfully win in a bidding war. Keep in mind, the strategies used should depend on the type and condition of the property, your level of motivation, and how much competition you have from other parties.

Submit a Cash Offer

If you can afford to offer all cash on a property, this can help you get an offer accepted, even if other potential buyers have offered more! Sellers love cash buyers, because they know the money is there, and the risk that the buyer will not be able to follow-through drops significantly.

Remove Some Contingencies

An example of this is to not make your offer contingent on the sale of your current home. Instead, work with your lender to get approved for financing which will allow you to be more aggressive with your offer and remove part or all of a financing contingency. Of course you can still work with your agent to sell your current home and buy a new one at the same time.

Work With an Experienced Buyer’s Agent

Too many buyer’s agents rely on texts and emails when communicating with listing agents. Hire an agent who knows the value of calling the listing agent and explaining your interests and the merits of your offer. When you're up against other offers, your agent's communication style can make or break your chances.

Offer Above Asking Price and Provide Appraisal Gap Coverage

In order to get an offer accepted, you may have to go over asking price. But when offering above the asking price on a property, there is a chance that it may be more than what the bank appraises the home for.

Here’s an example. Say a home is listed for $900K, you go under contract on this home for $930K, but the appraisal only comes in at $920K. In this scenario, you would have to either fork over an additional $10K cash to make the deal happen, convince the seller to accept a new purchase price of $920K, or walk away from the deal.

Sellers are afraid of the latter option, so they like to see a guarantee that when you make an offer over asking price that you are willing to come up with some money to cover the difference, if the appraisal were to come in short.

This is what we call appraisal gap coverage. It’s insurance to the seller that you are willing to pay an additional amount over the appraised value of the home, if the appraisal is less than the agreed upon purchase price.

Shorten Your Inspection Period

No seller wants a buyer to drag their feet. If you offer a shorter window for inspections, such as a 3-5 day inspection period compared to a 10-day, a seller who is motivated to sell fast, might accept your offer. Make sure you have your contractors and inspectors lined up and ready to move so you can do your proper due diligence. Some serious and seasoned investors will even waive inspections on properties they know they are going to do a full renovation on.

Write the Seller's Preferred Closing Date into Your Offer

In a competitive situation you want to do all that you can to reasonably address the seller's preferred terms. Giving the seller their preferred closing date is a great way to tip the scales in your favor.

Cover the Seller’s Closing Costs

In a seller’s market, a way to make your offer standout is to cover the buyer’s and seller’s escrow and title fees which range in price. Offering to pick up these fees can sweeten the deal in a competitive market.

Include Escalation Clauses

The escalation clause can be a very powerful tool when making an offer on a property. Escalation clauses generally say that you will beat any other offer a seller has up to a certain purchase price. The price can be set in increments as low as $1000.

Here’s an example of an offer with an escalation clause: $800K with an escalation up to $820K. If the seller has another offer of $810K, the escalation clause in your offer would be exercised and you would beat the other offer. In situations where there are maybe 2-5 total offers, escalation clauses are a great tool to use.

However, when there are a large number of offers on a single property, an escalation clause makes your offer confusing and complicated to the sellers. It may get it moved the bottom of the pile. If you know you are offering on a property that has a lot of offers, your best bet is to work with a Realtor to submit a clean and simple offer at your best price. The easier it is to understand your offer and compare it to the others in the mix, the better your chances of getting your offer accepted.

Provide a Occupancy or Leaseback Option

If a seller needs time after closing on the house to pack their things and move or buy another house, give it to them! Many times, a seller may ask for 10 days or as many as 60+ days to move out of a property. If you give the sellers the occupancy they need after closing and another buyer doesn’t provide this, your offer is more likely to get accepted.

Plus, in many cases—depending on the length of occupancy the seller needs—you may even collect rent from sellers or collect a fee for days they stay in the home past the agreed upon occupancy period. Now you have a short-term tenant while you prep to move!

Your chances for success go up for every winning strategy you include in your offer. And very often it's not just the price that determines the winner. Usually it's about the offer as a whole and who the seller trusts is the best fit for their home. That's why it's so important to work with an agent who sets a positive tone during the negotiation while working with you to assemble a great offer.

Thinking about buying in this fast-paced market? Contact our team to come up with a game plan to get you into a new home!

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Rates are Rising! Should I Refinance My Home this Year?

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 18:20:17 GMT

Mortgage rates are on the rise! If you didn’t take advantage of 2020s ultralow rates, you may be wondering if now is still a good time to refinance.

17% of U.S. homeowners with a mortgage on their primary residence refinanced in 2020, according to a September NerdWallet survey conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,413 U.S. homeowners. And nearly one-third (31%) of homeowners with a mortgage on their primary residence said they were considering refinancing within the next 12 months, according to the survey.

To know if it’s the right time to refinance, first determine how long you plan to stay in your home, consider your financial goals and know your credit score. All of these things, along with current refinance interest rates, should play a role in your decision about whether — and when — to refinance.

When does it make sense to refinance?

The usual trigger for people to start thinking about a refinance is when they notice mortgage rates falling below their current loan rate. But there are other good reasons to refinance:

If you're looking to pay off the loan quicker with a shorter term.
You've gained enough equity in your home to refinance into a loan without mortgage insurance.
You're looking to tap a bit of your home equity with a cash-out refinance.

What is a good mortgage rate?

When the Federal Reserve lowers short-term interest rates, many people expect mortgage rates to follow. But mortgage rates don’t always move in lockstep with short-term rates.

Avoid focusing too much on a low mortgage rate that you read about or see advertised. Mortgage refinance rates change throughout the day, every day. And the rate you’re quoted may be higher or lower than a rate published at any given time.

Your mortgage refinance rate is primarily based on your credit score and the equity you have in your home.

You’re more likely to get a competitive rate as long as your credit score is good and you have proof of steady income.

Is it worth refinancing for half a percent?

An often-quoted rule of thumb has said that if mortgage rates are lower than your current rate by 1% or more, it might be a good idea to refinance. But that's traditional thinking, like saying you need a 20% down payment to buy a house. Such broad generalizations often don't work for big-money decisions. A half-point improvement in your rate might even make sense.

Tip: A new fee on some mortgage refinance transactions took effect on December 1, 2020. This “adverse market refinance fee” amounts to a 0.5% sales tax.

To determine if refinancing makes financial sense for you, it's a good idea to run the real numbers with a mortgage refinance calculator.

To calculate your potential savings, you’ll need to add up the costs of refinancing, such as an appraisal, a credit check, origination fees and closing costs. Also, check whether you face a penalty for paying off your current loan early. Then, when you find out what interest rate you could qualify for on a new loan, you’ll be able to calculate your new monthly payment and see how much, if anything, you’ll save each month.

You’ll also want to consider whether you have at least 20% equity — the difference between its market value and what you owe — in your home. Check the property values in your neighborhood to determine how much your home might appraise for now or consult a local real estate agent.

Will the savings be enough to make refinancing worthwhile?

You’ll spend an average of 2% to 5% of the loan amount in closing costs, so you want to figure out how long it will take for monthly savings to recoup those costs. This is often called the “break-even point” of a mortgage refinance. For instance, it would take 30 months to break even on $3,000 in closing costs if your monthly payment drops by $100. If you move during those 30 months, you’ll lose money in a refinance.

Think about whether your current home will fit your lifestyle in the future. If you’re close to starting a family or having an empty nest, and you refinance now, there’s a chance you won’t stay in your home long enough to break even on the costs.

Homeowners who have already paid off a significant amount of principal should also think carefully before jumping into a refinance.

“You might reduce your mortgage rate, lower your payment and save a great deal of interest by not extending your loan term.”

If you’re already 10 or more years into your loan, refinancing to a new 30-year or even 20-year loan — even if it lowers your rate considerably — tacks on interest costs. That’s because interest payments are front-loaded; the longer you’ve been paying your mortgage, the more of each payment goes toward the principal instead of interest.

Ask your lender to run the numbers on a loan term equal to the number of years you have remaining on your current mortgage. You might reduce your mortgage rate, lower your payment and save a great deal of interest by not extending your loan term.

Is it time to change the type of loan I have?

Take your prediction on how long you’ll stay in your current home, then think about the details of your current mortgage. How those factors play off each other could have a role in your refinance decision.

Let’s say you bought a home with an adjustable-rate mortgage for an initial term of five years at around 3%. You plan to stay put for several more years. If you’re nearing the time when the adjustable rate can reset and move higher, you might benefit from refinancing to a fixed-rate mortgage to get an interest rate that won’t fluctuate.

Or, if you know you’ll be moving in a few years, refinancing to an ARM from a longer-term fixed loan might help you save some money because lenders usually offer lower interest rates on those loans.

What's changed from your last loan closing?

Has your credit score and payment history improved since you got your mortgage? If so, you might qualify for a better interest rate on a refinance, which will help you save more per month and break even sooner.

On the other hand, hitting a rough financial patch (or two) can do a number on your credit, and that affects your ability to qualify for a refinance loan and get a good rate. If you’ve been late on a credit card payment, bought a new car or taken on student loans, your credit score might be lower than it was when you took out your original mortgage. Before refinancing, you might want to do some credit repair.

That could include waiting to apply for a refinance until after reducing some debt, making sure there are no mistakes in your credit report and allowing your credit history to heal over time with a period of prompt payments.

Or, when you determine how much you pay in credit card and other high-interest debt each month, you may find the money you’d spend on closing costs could be better spent paying down those bills instead of refinancing your home.

If you don’t qualify for a conventional refinance loan, special Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac refinance programs might work for you.

Saving money on your mortgage helps you build wealth. If you’re interested in refinancing this year, contact our team so we can refer you to a local lender!

Learn more about our team here.

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Tax Time 2021: PPP Loan Forgiveness, Deadlines, Standard Deductions + More!

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 20:14:30 GMT

If you’re like us, you’re probably ready to move on from 2020. But there is one lingering ghost from last year that you need to get rid of before you can truly move on for good—and that’s your 2020 taxes.

Thanks to the coronavirus (among other things), a lot has changed for the 2021 tax season. That’s why you need to start thinking about your tax situation now while you still have time on your side. We want you to be prepared to tackle your taxes before they tackle you. And to do that, we’re going to dig into what’s new for this tax season and what’s staying the same.

First, here are the main things you need to know right off the bat for the 2021 tax season:

Tax Day is Thursday, April 15, 2021. You must file your 2020 tax returns by this date!

The standard deduction for 2020 increased to $12,400 for single filers and $24,800 for married couples filing jointly.

Income tax brackets increased in 2020 to account for inflation.

The Coronavirus and Your Taxes

Oh, so you thought you were done with the coronavirus now that it’s 2021? Unfortunately, the coronavirus (and the government’s response to it) has created a ripple effect that will be felt when you sit down to file your taxes for last year. Here are some things to keep in mind:

STIMULUS CHECKS

The good news is your stimulus check will not count as taxable income. Instead, it’s being treated like a refundable tax credit for 2020. Translation: Your stimulus check is sort of like an advance on money you would have received anyway as part of your tax refund in 2021.

PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM (PPP) LOANS

The CARES Act also tried to help struggling small business owners stay afloat by offering them Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. As long as these loans were used on certain business expenses—payroll, rent or interest on mortgage payments, and utilities, to name a few—these loans were designed to be “forgiven.” In December 2020, the IRS announced that any eligible expenses you paid with money from those PPP loans can be deducted from your taxable income. So that’s a little bit of good news! But remember, you’ll have to get your loan forgiveness application approved by the Small Business Administration before you’re off the hook for the amount you borrowed.

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

Many Americans found themselves out of work (at least temporarily) after the pandemic shut down a large part of the economy and turned to unemployment insurance for help. Those who received unemployment benefits will need to pay income taxes on that money.

If you chose not to have taxes withheld from your benefits when you signed up, then you’ll either have to pay quarterly estimated taxes or set aside enough money from your unemployment benefits to pay your taxes come Tax Day.

Spring Maintenance Checklist

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:59:44 GMT

Springtime is great for freshening up your home and protecting your property against the season's strong winds and rains. Spring cleaning requires that you go a little deeper than dusting. Here are some tips to maintain your home in the spring!

A few outdoor tasks include cleaning gutters and downspouts, inspecting your roof and chimney for cracks and damage, and washing all windows and doors. A few of our preferred partners can help you inspect your roof, including The Roof Doctors in Roseville and Carlos Galan Roofing in North Highlands .

Because this time of the year brings in more rain, and greener grass, you'll want to make sure you keep your lawn in good shape. Service your lawn mower, fertilize your lawn, or hire a good landscaper or gardener to do the job.

For the inside of your home, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and make sure your batteries are in working order.

Now is a good time to change the bedding of your bedrooms from winter comforters and duvets to lighter throws. For tips on decorating your home for the spring or to consult with a local designer, contact our preferred partner, Christine Fife , who can help redesign your home for the spring.

Of course this time of the year brings in spring cleaning and organizing. If you are looking for a good way to tidy up and organize your closet spaces, our preferred partner Darria Deatherage from Closet Gallery in El Dorado Hills can help.

Buying Out of State? Here are Some Tips to Simplify the Process

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:38:12 GMT

Most people find the experience of buying a home in another state to be particularly stressful, especially when they're not familiar with the new area. Out-of-state buyers can be at a disadvantage because they probably don't know the best neighborhoods, school districts, local and state laws—or anything else, for that matter.

If you're facing this challenge, here are some tips to help you find a rockstar agent and close on a new home in a new area.

Get a Referral

When you're relocating, you need to rely on a buyer’s agent to be your eyes and ears, so it's imperative to find someone you trust to have your best interests at heart. Don't choose an agent at random. Instead, talk to a real estate professional in your current community (ehem, The Sherri Patterson Team) and ask for a referral to an agent in the community where you'll be relocating.

We’re part of a large network of Realtors that sell one out of every eight homes in North America. Wherever you next move takes you, we can connect you with an experienced buyer's agent who will offer the same level of care and attention to detail as our team.

Enlist a Relocation Specialist

Agents who are experienced in relocation will go the extra mile, helping you take care of all the details you'd handle if you had the time and knew the community. They'll help you find financing, close on your home and connect you with local vendors and contractors. In some cases, they can even negotiate better rates on things like moving services, and advocate for you if anything goes wrong.

Do Your Research—and Then Do Some More

Of course, you're going to have a real estate agent to help you find the right home, but don't just count on that. Be your own advocate, fire up Google, see what you can learn—and give yourself as much lead time as possible. Browse sites like Urban Institute and the Census Bureau to discover important details about a community's schools, weather, economic stability, local crime rate, and much more.

Include Property Restrictions in Your Research...

Ask your agent to supply you with the phone number of the local building authority and the homeowners association (HOA), if applicable. Contact both agencies and find out about any restrictions that the property may be subject to. For example, the zoning board or the HOA may not allow you to put up a fence or install a swimming pool. You'll want to know the restrictions before making an offer on a house.

Be Wary of Scammers

Unfortunately, buying from out of state opens you up to the possibility of getting taken for a ride. In today’s digital age it’s so easy to put something fake online. You have to be sure the person is actually real and the home is real. One common scam to watch out for: The swindler will create a listing for a house that's not actually for sale, use stolen pictures, and advertise it at a price that’s too good to be true. After an out-of-state buyer responds, a fake "bidding war" takes place. When you put down earnest money to secure your offer, the scammer takes off with your down payment. Avoid situations like this by working with an agent you trust.

Take a Trip

We recommend taking a quick trip to your new city to see the most promising listings in person. Your agent can always use a video app (e.g., Skype or FaceTime) and take you along for a tour. But there's a lot you can't tell from FaceTime: smells, sounds, and that hard-to-describe-but-all-important gut feeling that can best be described as "vibes." If traveling to your new home isn’t an option due to work, family or COVID-19, ask your real estate agent to provide a virtual tour of your favorite homes, the neighborhood and nearby amenities to get a feel for the area.

Ask the 'Stupid' Questions

If something is confusing, don't hesitate to ask questions, even if they seem silly. Regardless of whether you've bought and sold property before, the process in another state will probably be different. For instance, earnest money (called a deposit in some places) can range from a few hundred dollars to 10% of the purchase price of the home. Some states do inspections before going into contract, some afterward. Some closings happen just weeks after going into contract, and some take months. If something seems fishy, it could be standard process, or you could have uncovered a potential problem with your purchase. Asking lots of questions will help reveal any potential issues.

Schedule an Inspection and Try to Be There

Inspections may cost you up to a couple thousand dollars depending on the scope of inspections and size of the property, but doing so could save you from buying a house with hidden problems. If possible, we recommend attending the inspection so you can really understand the issues. Most inspectors are happy to teach new homeowners about regular maintenance they should be doing and show them small things that won't affect that sale, but should be addressed. This is especially important if you’re moving from sunny California to Colorado or somewhere rural that actually experiences winter and needs special maintenance (e.g., heat cables , plowing, winterizing).

Make Offers Electronically & Request a National Title Company

So you can't be there in the flesh to sign a pile of paperwork. No biggie—these days, remote closings are becoming increasingly common. One pro tip, though: Work with a title company that has a national network, so you can be sure it operates in both your current state and your new state. Then you'll either pop into a local office or pay a notary to come to you.

Set Up Utilities

An important, often overlooked step! No one wants to arrive at their new home after a long drive to discover the house has no electricity or running water. To ensure a smooth transition, contact the utility companies two to three weeks before you move, and send a deposit to ensure that utilities are switched on when you arrive.

Once you've got the keys (or at least, the closing paperwork) in hand, the really fun part starts: your cross-country move. Bon voyage!

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

This Design Style Is Going To Be the Next Big Thing

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:00:11 GMT

"New Mediterranean" style is something design experts have been obsessing over for a while now. Blame it on the amount of time since our last vacation, but there's something about this breezy, seaside-inspired look that just feels incredibly refreshing and new—and if there's any décor trend that can transform your home into something resembling a home-away-from-home, this has got to be it.

WHAT IS MEDITERRANEAN DESIGN?

Coastal but with a distinct twist, Mediterranean design is all about embracing a "less is more" philosophy and adding plenty of texture—often in the form of plaster walls and organic, natural finishes.

Read on to see what Mediterranean style is all about—and to learn how to master it in your own home.

Embrace Archways

DESIGN: CRISTINA LA PORTA

Elegant, gently sloping archways are a hallmark of Mediterranean style.

Opt For Perfectly Imperfect Paint Jobs

DESIGN: CHAMPALIMAUD DESIGN

White-washed walls are another major calling card of this look. They add much-needed character and variation to the strict palette of whites and creams that characterize sunbleached Mediterranean style, and keep everything feeling warm and well-loved, instead of stark.

Tap Into Texture

DESIGN: PURE CO. LIVING

Texture is king when it comes to achieving this age-old look. Plaster products can be applied to your walls if you're starting from the classic "white box" stage of decorating—and again, don't feel the need to aim for perfection. A little timeworn attitude is right at home in this aesthetic.

Bring Nature Inside

DESIGN: KAREN EMILE OF MILK AND HONEY LIFE

In a design style that prizes natural texture, it's only fitting that one should incorporate nods to the living world as well. Vining plants or classic botanicals like lemon trees or olive trees make for a natural complement to this aesthetic. (Bonus: planting them in rustic, imperfect pots lends a little added authenticity to the look.)

Try Some Terra Cotta

DESIGN: BURCHARD DESIGN CO.

On that tip: peppering in some warm, earthy terra cotta hues can be just the thing for interrupting all those white and cream shades. Hand-thrown ceramics, earthenware tiles, and small accessories that bring a hint of reddish hue to your space add variety, texture and visual interest to the color scheme.

Bring In Some Blues

FEITO A MAO

It wouldn't be Mediterranean style without a hint of blue lifted from the Mediterranean sea. From super-saturated cobalts to deep navy blues, this color family is an important part of this stylistic influence—so it's only right to incorporate it in your decorating. Hand-painted tiles like these infuse indoor and outdoor spaces alike with a little whiff of the seaside—we can almost hear the waves crashing now.

Warm Up With Wood Tones

DESIGN: CORTNEY BISHOP , PHOTO: KATIE CHARLOTTE

Wood tones—and any natural materials, really—can go a long way toward warming up a sleek white interior. Whether your home has functional wood beam ceilings or you decide to add them for the aesthetic points, a little wood is always in style. Particularly, burled and rough-hewn wood elements are a smart fit for this look, because they echo the hand-touched quality of plaster, tile, and other staples of Mediterranean style.

Expand To The Outdoors

CHAMPALIMAUD DESIGN

Indoor-outdoor living is the epitome of the Mediterranean lifestyle, so it only stands to reason that you'd emulate this element, as well. Many staples of this style (durable plaster, stone accents, breezy linen fabrics) work just as well out-of-doors as they do indoors, so extending your living space out into the elements is a snap. Opt for a simple, sculptural fire pit (or rustic metal fire bowl), then pull up some chairs and enjoy your outdoor oasis.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Things To Avoid After Applying For A Mortgage

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 16:41:44 GMT

PRO TIPS:

1. There are a few key things to avoid after applying for a mortgage to help make sure you still qualify for your loan at the closing table.

2. Be sure to discuss any changes in income, assets, or credit with your lender, so you don’t unintentionally jeopardize your application.

3. The best plan is to fully disclose your intentions with your lender before you do anything financial in nature.

Once you’ve found the right home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. You’re undoubtedly excited about the opportunity to decorate your new place, but before you make any large purchases, move your money around, or make any major life changes, consult your lender – someone who is qualified to tell you how your financial decisions may impact your home loan.

Below is a list of things you shouldn’t do after applying for a mortgage. They’re all important to know – or simply just good reminders – for the process.

1. Don’t Deposit Cash into Your Bank Accounts Before Speaking with Your Bank or Lender. Lenders need to source your money, and cash is not easily traceable. Before you deposit any amount of cash into your accounts, discuss the proper way to document your transactions with your loan officer.

2. Don’t Make Any Large Purchases Like a New Car or Furniture for Your New Home. New debt comes with new monthly obligations. New obligations create new qualifications. People with new debt have higher debt-to-income ratios. Higher ratios make for riskier loans, and then sometimes qualified borrowers no longer qualify.

3. Don’t Co-Sign Other Loans for Anyone. When you co-sign, you’re obligated. With that obligation comes higher ratios as well. Even if you promise you won’t be the one making the payments, your lender will have to count the payments against you.

4. Don’t Change Bank Accounts. Remember, lenders need to source and track your assets. That task is significantly easier when there’s consistency among your accounts. Before you transfer any money, speak with your loan officer.

5. Don’t Apply for New Credit. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a new credit card or a new car. When you have your credit report run by organizations in multiple financial channels (mortgage, credit card, auto, etc.), your FICO® score will be impacted. Lower credit scores can determine your interest rate and maybe even your eligibility for approval.

6. Don’t Close Any Credit Accounts. Many buyers believe having less available credit makes them less risky and more likely to be approved. Wrong. A major component of your score is your length and depth of credit history (as opposed to just your payment history) and your total usage of credit as a percentage of available credit. Closing accounts has a negative impact on both of those determinants of your score.

Any blip in income, assets, or credit should be reviewed and executed in a way that ensures your home loan can still be approved. If your job or employment status has changed recently, share that with your lender as well. The best plan is to fully disclose and discuss your intentions with your loan officer before you do anything financial in nature.

2021 REAL ESTATE RESOURCES:

FOR NATIONAL MARKET STATS, DOWNLOAD OUR REAL ESTATE REPORT

LOOKING TO RELOCATE TO SACRAMENTO? DOWNLOAD OUR 2021 RELOCATION GUIDE

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

5 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day at Home This Year

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 18:24:35 GMT

Like so many other holidays, this Valentine's Day will look a lot different than usual. Instead of heading out for a romantic restaurant dinner or a weekend getaway, many couples are opting for a safer celebration at home.

That being said, you've probably held plenty of date nights in your living room over the past year, so it may take some creativity to make this one feel extra special. To inspire your planning, we rounded up the most fun and memorable ways to spend your Valentine's Day, from decor to liven up your space to virtual classes and dinner ideas. Change out of your loungewear and get ready for a romantic night with your S.O.

1. At-Home Spa Day

If a spa weekend isn't in the cards, pamper yourselves at home. Trade off giving each other massages with stress-relieving oil , take a long bubble bath , and chill out with hydrating face masks . One way or another, you'll end the day with a serious Valentine's Day glow.

2. A Movie Marathon

One movie? That's just a regular Friday night. Giving yourself permission to watch as many as you want? That's a proper date night. Start with Baz Luhrmann's Romeo & Juliet or embark on a trilogy like the Matrix or Before Sunrise and enjoy a luxuriously lazy evening on the sofa.

3. Take a Cooking Class

Make preparing a Valentine's Day meal special by signing up for a virtual cooking class. Side note: this is another great group date with friends. Sur La Table's classes start at $29 per household and cover everything from full meals to happy hours and desserts.

4. Backyard Picnic

February might still be chilly, but make the most of it by dressing up in your warmest coats and building a fire . Bring out a bottle of good wine , toast some oversize marshmallows , play an outdoor game , and enjoy the outdoors during the time of year we are usually inside.

5. Trivia Night

Perk up your Valentine's Day dinner conversation by busting out this quiz book—it is always fun and surprising to learn new things about your partner. Or, organize a virtual date night and team up against other couples with virtual Jeopardy . Have everyone contribute to a winner's pot to amp up the friendly competition.

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About our Team

The Sherri Patterson Team: 2020 Year in Review

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 18:06:21 GMT

2020 was a unique year in many ways. The start to a new decade, a presidential election and a pandemic that took center stage for most of the year. Despite the challenges thrown our way, real estate remained a bright spot in the economy. As our team learned to adapt to changing safety protocols, shutdowns and a new normal, we pulled together and were able to make the most of all the curveballs.

In the end, when we reflect on this year, we’re grateful for the opportunities we’ve had to connect in new ways, slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures and for our clients who continued to refer us—allowing us to hit our goals. Below we’ve shared a roundup of the highlights from this year…

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

2021 Real Estate Market Trends & Predictions

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:59:33 GMT

As we head into 2021, Sacramento has been singled out as the area that's expected to have the nation's hottest housing market, according to Realtor.com.

People who move to Sacramento find a vibrant food scene in a city close to the Bay Area with some affordable housing compared to other parts of California.

Additionally, many renters in the San Francisco area have recently become first-time homebuyers in the Sacramento region. They are working remotely, so they can now live anywhere they want. Many are choosing neighborhoods in Elk Grove, Oak Park, Tahoe Park, Arden-Arcade and West Sacramento.

Although it’s considered a seller’s market, low interest rates and government programs for first-time homebuyers, are making homeownership affordable, despite the increase in home prices we are seeing across the region.

Despite everything that happened last year, the real estate market not only survived but thrived, playing a big part in our economic recovery along the way. The next 12 months are looking just as promising, with interest rates expected to remain low, buyer traffic staying high and inventory levels predicted to rise.

2021 REAL ESTATE RESOURCES:

FOR NATIONAL MARKET STATS, DOWNLOAD OUR REAL ESTATE REPORT

LOOKING TO RELOCATE TO SACRAMENTO? DOWNLOAD OUR 2021 RELOCATION GUIDE

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Top Health and Wellness Trends for 2021

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:46:03 GMT

People are really looking forward to saying goodbye to 2020. Here’s what we think will be big next year when it comes to wellness.

1. Immunity

It should come as no surprise that, in the middle of a global pandemic, immunity is a hot ticket item. While following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and your local public health department is important to help stop the spread of diseases like COVID-19, there are things you can do to keep your immune system as healthy as possible. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, reduce stress in your life and eat a well-balanced diet. Certain nutrients, like vitamins A, C and D, as well as zinc, all support your immune system . We think we’ll continue to see an interest in immunity in 2021, with more companies calling out immunity-boosting nutrients in their products.

2. Gut Health

By now, you’re probably familiar with probiotics: good-for-your-gut bugs found in fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi. But it’s not just probiotics that are important for gut health. Prebiotics, a type of fiber, and even postbiotics, a functional fermentation compound, are popping up more and more. Gut health is one of the most exciting frontiers of nutrition and health research out there right now. People are devouring information about it and getting savvier and savvier.

3. Anti-Inflammation

Inflammation is a normal response that our bodies have to help protect us from injuries and defend against foreign invaders. But too much inflammation over time can do damage in your body. Diseases associated with chronic inflammation include cancer, heart disease and arthritis. While nutrition experts have known for awhile that too much inflammation isn’t good, it seems there’s more general awareness these days, and everyone’s looking for ways to help with chronic inflammation, starting with their diet. The good news? Inflammation-fighting foods are generally the types of foods we encourage as part of a healthy diet. Salmon, nuts, beans, leafy greens, avocado, citrus fruit and berries are just some of the foods that give you an edge on fighting inflammation.

4. Air Frying

People did a lot more cooking at home this year, and one appliance they leaned on was the air fryer. The old versions were small—only holding enough food for about two servings but the new extra-large versions can cook enough food in one batch to serve at least four, if not six.

5. Gardening

Gardening is obviously nothing new, but the pandemic caused a huge surge in people growing their own food—and this is a trend we expect to stick around. Google searches for gardening normally peak in the early spring and in 2020 they doubled compared to 2019. Seed companies reported selling 8 to 10 times more seeds than they typically do. Hopefully everyone can get their seeds in 2021 and whether they plant in pots or harvest a whole raised bed, they’ll be able to grow more local food right in their own backyard. Gardening is healthy on its own—it can help lower stress, build muscle and boost your mood—and it also helps you eat more vegetables.

6. Sleep

According to Pinterest’s 2021 Trends Report, “Zzz time is the new me time.” They’re reporting spikes in searches for sleep yoga, sleep affirmations, silk sleepwear and sleep blends for diffusers. We know sleep is important for your health—it can impact your immune system, your cravings, your mood, your skin and more.

7. Adaptogens

Adaptogens are huge right now. People are—understandably!—looking for all-natural ways to de-stress and focus better. In addition to adaptogen supplements, companies are now putting the compound into everything from teas, hot chocolate mix and honey to face creams. If you’ve never heard of adaptogens, just wait. Perhaps you’ve seen mushroom coffee or ashwagandha powder added to an energy bar. Since adaptogens have the potential to help your immune system and reduce stress, we’re predicting they’re going to be big in 2021. Searches for “mushroom coffee” and “ashwagandha” were at an all time high in 2020, per Google Trends.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Small Business Shout-Out: Luminis Photography

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:29:30 GMT

This month’s Small Business Shoutout is Luminis Photography in Folsom. Sherri caught up with owner Debb and photographer Kat to find out how they’re keeping clients safe and happy during COVID-19.

Where to find Luminis

718 Sutter St. #103 Folsom, CA 95630

(916) 608-9999

When to Visit

Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Meet The Luminis Team

Luminis was established in 2011. They are a small team of 4-5 talented photographers and photo editors. Luminis is a natural light photography studio specializing in family, maternity, newborn, senior, head-shots, engagement & wedding photography.

Shot with Luminis?

Please support this business by leaving a positive review on Yelp!

How Luminis is Serving Clients During The Pandemic

Luminis is offering private photo sessions (indoor and outdoor) as well as mini sessions for the holidays.

What We Like Best About Luminis

Family & artist-owned
One of the last brick & mortar studios in the Sacramento area
Fun & friendly staff
Amazing talent

Follow them on Instagram @luminisstudio

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Small Business Shout-Out: Joan's Bakery in Apple Hill

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:55:03 GMT

This month’s Small Business Shoutout is Joan's Bakery at Delfino Farms in Apple Hill. Sherri caught up with the farm to find out how they’re keeping clients safe and happy during COVID-19.

Where to Find Joan’s Bakery at Delfino Farms

3205 N. CANYON RD. BLDG 2
CAMINO, CA 95709

(530) 622-0184

When to Visit

* The pie shop is closed for the season, opening August 2021.

Visit Edio Vineyards: Thursday - Monday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Meet The Delfino Family

Order Wine For the Holidays!

Join their wine club or order a bottle of wine: https://shop.delfinofarms.com/Wines/All-Products

How Delfino Farms is Serving Clients During The Pandemic

Edio Vineyards at Delfino Farms is offering wine tasting through the holidays. Reservations are encouraged!

What We Like Best About Luminis

Family owned
Delicious wines, hard cider and pies!
Fun & friendly staff
Amazing scenery

Follow them on Instagram @delphinofarms

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Sherri Patterson Team's 2020 Gift Guide

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:40:12 GMT

Looking for the perfect local gift? We’ve got you covered!

This year it’s more important than ever to shop local. Many of our favorite business have been hit hard by the pandemic and the holidays are a great time to show our support while checking some gifts off our list. Below we’ve shared some of our team’s favorite places in the Greater Sacramento Area to visit and shop to help you kick off the holiday season.

Best Personalized Gift

Mono Mia - Sacramento

Offering an array of personalized and unique gifts that can be purchased in-store and online. Their shop is located in Lyon Village at 2580 Fair Oaks Blvd #8 in Sacramento. Hours to shop: M-F 10a-6p Sat 10a-5p. On instagram: mono_mia_ .

Best Personalized Gift

Mono Mia - Sacramento

Best Home Decor Gift

Rod Works - Folsom

Rod Works started as an alternative for Home Décor found in the big chain stores. The inspiration came from the owners wanting unique and quality home decor for their own home at affordable prices. Shop online or in store Monday-Saturday 11:00-5:00pm. On instagram: @rodworks

Best “Experience” Gift

The Prickly Pear - Sacramento

Your not-so-average gift that will wow anyone on your list. From subscription boxes to pot n sip events to build-your-own succulent kits this local shop has a ton of fun gifts for co-workers, friends and family. On Instagram: @the.prickly.pear

Tastiest Gift

Bad Bakers - Sacramento & Roseville

Because sometimes the best gifts are ones you can treat yourself to. Whether you’re picking up bread staxx for dinner or delivering donuts for Christmas morning, Bad Bakers serves some of freshest and tastiest bread in all the Greater Sacramento Area. On Instagram: @bad.bakers

Best Gift For Beer Lovers

Red Bus Brewery - Folsom

Red Bus rolled into town early 2018, located at 802 Reading Street , just a few blocks from Historic Sutter Street. They offer a variety of gift options from beer to-go to memberships to gear. Their patio opens at noon everyday of the week. On instagram": @redbusbrew

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About our Team

10 COVID-19 Friendly Date Night Ideas

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:09:42 GMT

Certainly, the Coronavirus pandemic has created a whole new normal with pretty much everything in our lives, including the way we typically spend quality time together, go out, and enjoy the company of others. Since many restaurants, bars, and breweries have opened up their patios for business, date night is making a come-back. Here are 10 COVID-19 friendly ideas for a date night out on the town.

1. Hit the Bike Trails

The Sacramento area is rich with scenic trails, perfect for bike-riding with your sweetie. Depending on your experience, you can hit local trails from easy and paved to rugged and challenging. If you don’t own your own bicycles, there are plenty of rental shops like Folsom Bike , Trek Bikes in Midtown or Blue Zone Sports in Roseville.

2. Sharpen Up Your Aim with Archery

Cupid shouldn’t be the only one who gets to have all of the fun. You’ll love the challenge of archery, a cool date-day idea that’ll give you enough room for conversation, trash talk, and competition. There are quite a few ranges in the area, including one in El Dorado Hills , MAYA Archers in Roseville, or the Discovery Park Archery Range in Sacramento.

3. Plan Your Escape

If you haven’t noticed, escape rooms have been making all the buzz over the past couple of years, providing companies, churches, youth groups, and love birds the chance to test their intelligence in real-life situations and mazes to escape from. Google escape room [your city], and you’ll be sure to find several you and your date can conquer.

4. Float, Float On…

Fall is a great time to relax on the river in an inner tube. This date idea is chill. You can pack a cooler, slap on some sunscreen, and enjoy the sunset. Check out American River Raft Rentals or if you’re feeling adventurous, plan a day trip to go white water rafting but camp the night before. White Water Adventures in Sacramento has you covered for only $49.

5. Camp Out

The summer hit us hard with several wildfires that affected thousands, but once the smoke clears, a great date night idea is camping. Blow up the air mattress and pitch a tent in the backyard, or make it a weekend getaway and reserve campsite. Either way, enjoying the night sky wrapped in the arms of your love sounds about as good as it gets. Here’s a list of 30 of the best campsites in Sacramento.

6. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

Are you or your partner an adrenaline junkie? There’s no better place to get it going than Quarry Park Adventures in Rocklin. With so many activities to choose from, you and your date will work up a sweat and have plenty of fun. If you get a 4-hr day pass, you can enjoy ziplining, rock climbing, and even aerial adventures.

7. Kayak, Canoe, SUP

With so many rivers and lakes around, it’s a no-brainer to impress your date with some fun water activities. Get out on the water and test your sense of adventure. Need a great way to work on your communication skills? Canoeing is your answer. Pack a picnic and pull off to the shore mid-float to fuel up for the row home.

8. Online Cooking Class

Both Sur La Table and Williams Sonoma offer virtual cooking classes ranging from stir fry to Greek Night. Switch it up. If one of you claims the kitchen domain, give cooking together a try. Find a recipe online that tickles your taste buds, or go even bigger. If hands-on cooking isn’t really your jam, try whipping up a charcuterie board. Easy and delicious, plus- No rules!

9. DIY Wine & Art

Bring out your inner Picasso by recreating a paint and sip class in the comfort of your own home. Even better- you get to choose the subject matter. Since many of the public parks, lakes, and beaches are open to the public, grab your supplies, and do this date outdoors. Collaborate with your partner and scan Pinterest or even Youtube for a “How to paint ___” that catches your eye. Grab supplies and a bottle of vino- you’re all set!

10. Game Night

You can make your next date night both fun and competitive. Get tangled up in a game of Twister, blindfold taste test (chocolate, ice cream, cheese, or wine are a few ideas to get you started!), or even a card game- Euchre, Rummy, or Dominoes.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

The Power of Giving: Our Team is Grateful For...

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 21:05:50 GMT

The holidays is one of our favorite times of the year. The weather is crisp, we get to spend quality time with our loved ones, and also exchange gifts. While gift-giving is an expected thing to do every year during this time, we often don’t put much thought into how giving to others actually benefit us, psychologically.

Science proves that there is a lot of good in the act of giving.

Studies show people are happier when they spend money on a gift for others instead of one for themselves.
When you give to others, your brain responds as though you were the one who received the gift! The endorphins you feel can be compared to a runner’s high or chowing down on your favorite food.
Positive feelings associated with giving stick around for about two hours. Not only will you want to give more, but the person who receives your gift is also inspired to give.
When you give to others, research shows you are more likely to reduce your stress levels, improve your mood, and boost your social connections.

In addition to giving, this time of the year also gets us in the mindset of being grateful while we spend time with our loved ones. Here are some of the things our team is grateful for.

1. Quality Time With Family

“I am grateful for getting to spend more quality time with my hubby and kiddos and not rushing around so much. I am also grateful for the love and support of my family, friends and team, I couldn't do life with out you all!”

-Elsa Bibb, Executive Assistant

2. A Supportive Team & Great Clients

“I’m grateful for my family and friends, but most of all our team and clients. Without this team I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. Our team is supportive, encouraging, humble and ROCKSTARS who strive to be the best they can be daily with each other and to our clients. This year has been one of transition and change within the company but as we all remain fluid and flexible we will continue to grow and be the best version of us. Thank you for having a GROWTH mindset! I’m truly grateful for each one of you.” -Sherri Patterson, REALTOR

3. Relationships With My Family, Friends & Clients

“In these times,” which seems to be a common phrase today, I am thankful for what has not changed in my life, namely, my relationship with my wife and children, with my friends and family, and even with my colleagues. Relationships built on love, respect, and integrity, are what I am thankful for. - Fran Cammarota, REALTOR

4. Motherhood & Close Relationships

“Despite the craziness of 2020, I am grateful that my dream came true this year in becoming a mom. Having been blessed with a daughter and in memory of one of my heroes RBG, I feel so inspired to work with strong and independent women in all aspects of my career from clients to colleagues. I am grateful for the health of everyone I love. Last but not least, I am grateful for my relationships with my incredible husband, my amazing family and close friends.” -Anisha Liebert, REALTOR

5. Everyone in One, Big House

“I’m grateful for my family and having been able to accomplish our family tradition of joining households with my parents at a property where we can raise Eden on a few acres with her grandparents close at hand. I’m grateful for the support of our awesome team, and the trust of our fabulous clients. It is truly a blessing to get to do what I love for work, and help our clients find home.”

-Alyssa Teyler, REALTOR

6. Family & New Job

“My family is the biggest blessing and extra time spent with them has been invaluable! Without all of the normal “distractions” of a busy sports-loving family, we enjoyed time cooking, playing silly games around the house and working on projects together. I was so fortunate to find a new job in the midst of everything and am now loving my new position with everyone here at The Sherri Patterson Team.”

-Mary Hillyer, Marketing Coordinator

What are you grateful for? Please share in the comments below.

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5 Relax & Reset Tips to Beat Holiday Stress

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:41:25 GMT

The holidays are some of the best times of the year but are no fun when you are burnt out and tired. From cooking turkeys to decorating, and shopping, this time of the year can be very stressful and hectic, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are five ways you can relax and reset throughout the holiday season.

1. Take a Breath & Do Some Yoga

When you're really busy and stressed try yoga. A number of studies say yoga is really helpful for reducing stress and boosting your overall mood. Yoga can also help improve fitness, flexibility, and strength. Whether you decide to take a class at a local studio or join a virtual class online, this tried and true exercise is a win-wi⸺ you get more fit while reducing your stress. Since yoga works both the mind and the body, it will also help prepare you mentally for whatever the holidays throw at you.

2. Listen to Music

When you have the holiday blues, music can be really helpful with brightening your mood and calming you down. Music has shown to help reduce anxiety and stress levels by 56%. Since it is the holidays, it’s more than fitting to play holiday classics, say “Let it Snow” or “Jingle Bell Rock,” which can not only boost your mood but put you in the holiday spirit.

3. Get Some Fresh Air

If the weather isn't too cold, spending a lot of time outside can help ease holiday chaos. Nature has many health benefits including lowering stress. Try going on a stroll down the block, an easy trail, or around the neighborhood. Walking is an amazing way for keeping you fit and healthy through the holidays. Being outside also has many benefits for your mind. It can help you to be more creative or simply “escape” from everyone and everything for a little bit.

4. Watch Movies Solo or With Your Loved Ones

Watching movies can be a fun, quiet way to relax and wind down from the day. With so many streaming companies offering just about everything from classics to comedy to new releases, you’re bound to find something to keep you entertained and take a break from thinking, planning, or worrying. So get yourself a blanket, grab some snacks, and choose a good flick that will help you relax and reset.

5. Reflect

We know this year has been . . . well, interesting to say the least, but during the holidays, reflection helps you think of all the wonderful things you did this past year. Thinking of all the amazing activities, fun memories, and what you accomplished, will boost your mood because it will take you back and make you think happy thoughts. When you think happy thoughts, you get a boost of serotonin, which is the happy hormone that helps manage stress.

What are some of the ways you relax during the holidays? Comment below!

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What to Expect When Buying or Selling in the Fall

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:33:08 GMT

When it comes to purchasing or listing real estate, during COVID may not seem like the best time to do so. However, this is the furthest from the truth. Our transactions now are about the same as before, with some minor adjustments made to the system. It has been five months since the pandemic broke out, but what can we expect the real estate world to look like going into the fall? Check out some predictions real estate experts are making for the fall market.

1. What Will Home Equity Look Like?

According to Todd Teta, chief product and technology officer at real estate data and solutions provider Attom Data, home equity levels will begin to drop as time goes on. More and more foreclosures will begin as the unemployment rate continues getting higher and higher. However, others feel that the home values may continue to increase as demand rises. Mark Fleming, chief economist at First American Financial Corporation, says that because “you can’t buy what’s not for sale, buyers will likely feel pressure to escalate their bids to win the ‘bidding war’ on homes that are for sale.”

2. Will Home Buying Demands Continue to Skyrocket?

The answer to this question is no and yes. For reasons explaining why increasing buyer demand may not continue is due to the fact that surges in buyer demand took off when the coronavirus started, which also happened to be in the spring when sales are usually at their highest. Some experts are saying that the demand will eventually cool down and go back to a normal pattern. However, Mark Fleming expects demand to remain high, saying “ Our research shows that millennial demand for homeownership continues to gain strength, and is a strong demographic demand tailwind for the housing market.”

There was a large amount of millennials entering into the new home buying phase this year, which will continue the normal demand for homes on the market.

3. Will the Prices of Homes Continue to Rise?

Here is one thing to note when it comes to asking this question. If you do not know already, the rate of home mortgage lows is at an all time low right now. The first time a loan has had a rate of 2.8% in the last several decades. But what you need to know with this, is that as loan rates decrease, prices increase. According to Taylor Marr, lead economist at real estate brokerage Redfin, he believes that since the supply fell short, the prices will continue to grow at the same pace as they were before the pandemic hit. As of now, it is a hit or miss situation. Only time will tell based on how this pandemic plays out.

4. What is the Biggest Concern for the Fall of 2020?

This year took a crazy turn for the worst. As the coronavirus hit the world, it hit the real estate market in an unexpected way. Here’s what real estate professionals think will be the biggest concern for the fall.

“First and foremost is the health crisis. Addressing that is both good economic and good housing policy. After that, the problem that we had BC (Before Coronavirus) and will have AC (After Coronavirus) is a shortage of housing supply. We have to build more homes to meet the growing millennial demand.” - Mark Fleming

“The biggest risk to both the rental market and the owner-occupied market is a continued resurgence of viral infections, which would jeopardize state plans to reopen sectors of the economy, and complicate school starting in the fall. As emergency fiscal policies from the CARES Act expire, especially boosted unemployment benefits which are scheduled to end in July, American households could end up worse off than they were this spring. - Jeff Tucker , economist at real estate listing website Zillow

“There are no signs of an imminent market crash. But the greatest fear is that the pandemic continues for months and months and then conditions spiral into a vicious cycle that tanks prices, sends foreclosures soaring upward and causes problems in the banking system, similar to what happened right before Great Recession hit in 2007. That's a worst-case scenario, but it is not out of the question.” - Todd Teta

Do you have any questions you would like answered about the real estate market going in to the fall? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!

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2021 Color of the Year + Design Trends

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:26:15 GMT

Continuing to dabble in the world of blue, next year’s color of the year is inspired by technological advances and build on from the popular neo-mint trend. “AI Aqua” is predicted to be the ‘positive’ color of the year, giving vibes of the futuristic and innovation. Strikingly different from 2020 color of the year “Naval,” AI Aqua is bright, bold, and diverse, said to trigger feelings of clarity and has major ‘commercial appeal,’ according to FashionTrendsetter.com.

Already popular within the world of fashion and tech, AI Aqua is going to be taking our homes by storm too. Check out ways to incorporate this bright blue hue in your home next year.

1. Freshen Up Your Front Door

With a color this bright, it’s best not to brave on the bold side by painting the exterior of your home in AI Aqua, though your front door would love a makeover in aqua. Boost your curb appeal with cheery colors that complement aqua such as yellow or pink.

2. An Accent Wall… or Two

Another great way to incorporate aqua into your decor is by highlighting the color in your home as an accent wall in the living room, dining room, or in a bedroom. Accent walls can actually really change the whole feel of a home, and it will definitely be for the better. An aqua accent wall will add a touch of dimension, intrigue, and style.

3. Accessorize with Aqua

Don’t want to fully commit to aqua, we get it! By adding colorful accessories, bedding, and small decor items to your home, you can add contemporary style without full commitment. Aqua in the bedroom always says beach vibes, so complementing the color with seashells, burlap, or sea art isn’t a bad idea.

4. Dining and Dinnerware

Again, you don’t have to go all-out with the color of the year, and simply adding aqua-colored dinnerware, placemats, or vases in the dining room will do the style trick. Remember, aqua pairs well with white, so if you have classic white cabinetry or furniture, this color will truly fare well in your room.

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Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:19:07 GMT

Fall is a great time to finish larger projects you may have in your home. The weather is cooler and since you may be spending more time due to the pandemic, taking on a few home maintenance projects may be just the thing to keep you occupied and your home in tip-top shape. But where do you start? Thanks to HouseLogic from the National Association of Realtors, and Housebeautiful.com , we have compiled the perfect list of what you can accomplish before the winter season hits!

1. Stow Your Mower

The most important thing to know when owning a lawn mower is that you cannot keep the gas inside its tank for long periods of time. The gas inside the chamber begins to deteriorate the metal, leaving you with a damaged mower. Purchasing a fuel stabilizer can help to prevent this. Once your mower is cleaned, you can stow it away for safe keeping.

2. De-Gunk Your Gutter

Not checking your gutters can have a detrimental affect on your home. When gutters overflow, it cal lead to interior flooding, exterior damage, and interior ceiling damage. Surprisingly, you can purchase replacement gutters on Amazon too!

3. Change Your Batteries

Checking on your batteries is one of the most important things to do in your home when it comes to your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Fall is the perfect time to make sure the batteries are fresh. You’ll be running the heater and fireplace more next season, so making sure your detectors are in good working condition should be a priority in the fall.

4. Prune Your Plants

Late fall is the best time to prune plants and trees. Your goal is to keep limbs and branches at least three feet from your house so that moisture doesn’t drip onto roofing and siding, and to prevent damage to your house exterior during high winds. Plants included that you should prune in the fall are lavender, hydrangea and gardenia.

5. Seal Cracked Airways

Grab a couple of tubes of color-matched exterior caulk. Walk around your home’s exterior, sealing up cracks between trim and siding, around window and door frames, and where pipes and wires enter your house. Preventing moisture from getting in your walls is one of the least expensive of your fall maintenance jobs.

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3 Ways to Celebrate Labor's Day Weekend During a Pandemic

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 18:17:36 GMT

With the pandemic looming, we know that holidays just don’t seem to be the same as they used to be! As we kick off the month of September with Labor Day weekend, we’ve come up with three ways to celebrate and party, while being conscious of social distancing, and making sure that group sizes don’t go beyond 10 people. Let us know in the comments which way you’ll be celebrating Labor Day this year!

1. Head to the Campgrounds

Camping is a great way to get out of the house and be one with nature. With the pandemic, many campgrounds have closed until further notice. However, we found some of the best local campgrounds that are open (with social distancing measures in place) and ready to take reservations.

Coloma Resort - If you want a family getaway, Coloma Resort has tent, RV, and cabin camping available. It features bbq rentals, a swimming pool and a playground.
Auburn Gold Country RV Park - Perfect for some good ‘ol fashioned R&R, Auburn Gold Country RV Park is taking reservations for RV and trailer camping. This site features private RV sites, fishing, hiking, sports courts, and a heated swimming pool.

2. Spend the Day at the Lake

The Sacramento area is the hotspot for lake activities. With easy access to the American River, Lake Natoma and Folsom Lake, spending Labor Day Weekend at any of them is more than a perfect idea. Here are some of the top places in the area to plan a getaway.

Folsom Lake - This lake is so much fun to go to! They are accepting people into the lake, however, you cannot be in a large group of people. They have bbq’s, tables, jet ski rentals, etc. The perfect Labor Day spot for $12!

The American River - This river is known for having many people whitewater raft and kayak in it! Many of the rafting companies are still planning their activities, along with proper precautions!

Lake Tahoe - Known for its crystal blue waters, shopping, and gorgeous views, Lake Tahoe is the perfect getaway destination. Most places are open here, including the casinos, with exception of indoor dining. If you’re willing to take a bit of a road trip, South Lake Tahoe can be a great way to celebrate Labor’s Day Weekend.

3. Take a Weekend Roadtrip

Living in the Sacramento area, there is SO much to do around here! The best part is you can have a mini road trip with tons of activities to do that are just a couple of hours away! You can get out of the house and still enjoy new and exciting places with your family. Here are some of the top cities/landmarks you can visit during your road trip.

Lodi’s Wine County (Lodi, Ca) - Check prior to make sure wineries are open for tastings, etc.
Apple Hill Orchards (Placerville, Ca) - Their blueberries are in season right now!
Old Faithful Geyser (Napa, Ca) - This geyser shoots almost 75 ft in the air!
Safari West (Santa Rosa, Ca) - This safari trip allows you to be up close with all sorts of jungle animals while cruising in a buggy!
Guernerville on the Russian River (Guernerville, CA) - About 2 hours from Sacramento, this cute little town offers many opportunities for floating down the river, camping , etc!

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4 Tips for Acing a Distance-Learning School Year

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 17:59:15 GMT

Last month, Gov. Newsom announced a pandemic plan to start the school year with distance-learning for all counties on California’s monitoring list. Since Sacramento, Yolo and Placer counties are currently on the watch-list, many parents will be juggling their work schedules, homeschooling and extracurricular activities during the fall semester, with little to no guidance on how to balance it all. Fortunately, our team asked around and found four great tips to ace the school year while distance-learning.

*This article was written July 19, 2020. Please continue to check the state’s monitoring list for updates.

1. Create Structure & Routine

It’s been said that there is a time and place for everything. With distance-learning, this couldn’t be more true!

“This is a stressful, unpredictable time for everyone, including families, parents and children. You can help your children by providing them with a structure and routine, and being a positive force in their education,” says Dr. Pamela Hurst-Della Pietra, President of Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development.

If you set a schedule (and stick to it), you can arrange your week and days with certain expectations as well as ebb and flow. We recommend treating each day as a school day/workday with designated start times and end times. If you make it a general rule to begin each school day at 8:30 a.m., for example, with lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m. or noon, everyone in your household knows what to expect.

Creating structure and a routine will help lessen confusion, set healthy boundaries and get your family into a rhythm.

2. Keep it Old School With a Pen-And-Pad Approach

Let’s face it—with distance learning, access to smartphones, tablets and television, our kids are in front of a screen for more hours in a day than we know is healthy. Experts from the Children and Screens Institute for Digital Media & Child Development suggest using actual textbooks, print materials, hardcopy books and handwriting as a way to offset the amount of online learning your children will be doing this year.

“Overuse of screen time can have adverse impacts on young brains, so it’s essential in these special circumstances to be extra careful when it comes to the littlest ones,” the institute says. Studies show that remote education can be challenging for all ages, but especially young kids, so do whatever you can and always err on the side of caution.

Try stimulating self-expression by having discussions with your children about what they are doing, as well as encouraging creative writing and imaginative storytelling. Of course, it is difficult to manage and monitor screen time during all times of the day, so we suggest purchasing blue light blocking eyewear to protect your children’s eyes from strain and harmful light exposure.

3. Consider Hiring a Family Assistant

If you’re new to the work-from-home lifestyle and find that you’re having a bit of a hard time keeping up with work, kids, homeschooling and everything in between, a “family assistant” could be the savior you’re looking for. An FA is a hybrid of a personal assistant and a nanny all wrapped into one, serving the needs of both parents and children. A skilled family assistant will be able to provide childcare, run errands, prepare meals, do light housekeeping and even check emails, order supplies or organize files.

Even if you have a part time FA, you’ll benefit greatly from having some things taken off your plate while you take on educating your children, working and running a household. Look for someone with experience in both childcare or babysitting as well as office and project management experience.

Ask your neighbors, friends or family members for referrals to a qualified family assistant, which should attract some good options to help out.

4. Encourage Outside Play & Outdoor Activities

Make sure that your children take plenty of breaks in order to get physical activity and time away from screens. Set alarms similar to those they would encounter at school and encourage them to get up, get some fresh air, go for a walk or bike ride, or have a snack so that they are not sedentary for the entire day.

You can make this fun by planning different physical activities on different days of the week, or do themed weeks like soccer week, basketball week, volleyball week, etc. when your family focuses on learning and playing a specific sport throughout the week.

If You Live in El Dorado County… Here Are Some Tips for In-Person Learning

As of July 19, 2020, El Dorado County is the only county in the area that is not on the state’s monitoring list and schools in this county’s districts are expected to open. There is a full list of precautions and tips on going back to school in person given by Gov. Newsom, but here are some other things to remember:

Pack water bottles for each child to discourage drinking from school water fountains
Prepare lunches for each child, if possible, instead of opting for cafeteria-prepared food
Make sure you have all the supplies your children need in their backpacks and pencil cases such as crayons, pens, pencils, staplers, erasers, scissors, etc. so that they don’t have to share with other students or use classroom supplies
Your children should have their own hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to use while at school
Since masks are required for most students grades three and up, be sure to have a stock of masks or face shields for your kids to use throughout the week
Continue to remind your children to wash their hands regularly and keep their hands away from their face, eyes and mouths

We know that these uncertain times can be stressful and hope that these tips help. What are some other ideas you have for kicking off the school year on a good foot? Comment below!

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Small Biz Shout-Out: Flightz Restaurant

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 16:57:22 GMT

The coronavirus pandemic has affected the way many local businesses serve our community, causing some to lose business, cut employees and even shut down. The Sherri Patterson Team is doing something special to support some of our favorite small businesses and restaurants in the greater Sacramento area. Each month, we will do a “ Small Business Shoutout ” to encourage our clients, friends and family members to support them.

This month’s Small Business Shoutout is Flightz restaurant in El Dorado Hills . Sherri caught up with owners Alisa and Mike and found out how they’re keeping guests safe, fed and happy during COVID-19.

Where to Find Flightz

3907 Park Dr #110, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
(916) 805-5128

When to Dine at Flightz

Daily from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

*Sherri pictured with one of Flightz specialties “EDH Tacos” and “Frips and Onion Dip.”

Meet Alisa & Mike Griffith

Co-owner and wife of Flightz’s chef, Alisa Griffith, describes the opening of Flightz as a “love story.” Mike wanted to share his love for artisan food with others and so he and his wife opened the food, wine and beer pub in El Dorado Hills a little more than three years ago.

Been to Flightz?

Please support this business by leaving a positive review on the Nextdoor app or on Yelp !

How The Restaurant is Serving Guests During The Pandemic .

Flightz is currently offering curbside pickup, take-out and patio dining. Their to-go menu is perfect for families of four or more, starting at $15 per person. If you choose to dine on Flightz outside patio, the restaurant’s full menu is available.

What We Like Best About Flightz

Gourmet, chef-prepared dishes at great prices
Warm atmosphere
Family-owned, mom & pop establishment
Pet-friendly

Follow Flightz on Facebook @flightzwinepub

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Now Open! Check out These Sacramento Attractions During Coronavirus Pandemic

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 16:43:24 GMT

UPDATED: Effective July 13th, 2020: California is back on Lockdown

ALL counties must close indoor operations in these sectors:

Dine-in restaurants
Wineries and tasting rooms
Movie theaters
Family entertainment centers (for example: bowling alleys, miniature golf, batting cages and arcades) Zoos and museums
Cardrooms

Additionally, bars, brewpubs, breweries, and pubs must close all operations both indoor and outdoor statewide, unless they are offering sit-down, outdoor dine-in meals. Alcohol can only be sold in the same transaction as a meal.

Counties that have remained on the County Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days will be required to shut down the following industries or activities unless they can be modified to operate outside or by pick-up.

Fitness centers
Worship services
Protests
Offices for non-essential sectors
Personal care services, like nail salons, body waxing and tattoo parlors Hair salons and barbershops
Malls

The following counties have remained on the County Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days:

Sacramento
Placer
Yolo

We will keep you update as new developments are released. Read more on the new lockdown regulations here: https://covid19.ca.gov/roadmap-counties/

PUBLISHED: June 30th

With summer in full effect and Stage 3 of the Stay-At-Home Order rolls out, there’s now a growing list of businesses and indoor gathering places that recently got the go-ahead to reopen across California from the coronavirus shutdown. In addition to places of worship, indoor shopping malls, barbershops, and some dine-in restaurants, outdoor museums and art galleries have also re-opened. Here’s a list of recently re-opened businesses and attractions for a fun and safe summer. Please remember to stay safe, practice social distancing and wear a mask when having fun in public!

Folsom- El Dorado Hills Area

The Steve Miklos Aquatic Center is opened for scheduled lap swim, Mondays through Saturdays. Visit the website for details and additional programming announcements in the coming weeks.

2. Spray parks at Livermore , John Kemp , and Nisenan parks will open for the kids to splash and play.

3. The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary will reopen Friday, July 17. New temporary hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Advance online ticket purchase is required. Visit the Zoo Sanctuary website for additional details.

4. Three-day Zoo Sanctuary Junior and Senior Zookeeper Camps will be offered July 21-23, July 28-30, and August 4-6. You can register online for children ages eight through 14.

5. Movie Theaters , including Century Folsom , Palladio 16 and the Luxe . (Opening in early July).

6. The Andy Morin Sports Comple x remains open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday for table tennis, batting cages, and pickleball, but remember no group sports or sporting games are allowed.

7. Beals Point Campground is accepting reservations for small group/family camping.

8. Park entrances at Folsom Lake SR A are open to vehicular traffic at Granite Bay, Rattlesnake Bar and Beals Point in Placer County; Darrington Trailhead, Skunk Hollow, Salmon Falls, Old Salmon Falls, Brown’s Ravine including Folsom Lake Marina, Peninsula and Mormon Island in El Dorado County; Folsom Point, Negro Bar, Willow Creek, Nimbus Flat, Park Shore, Nimbus Dam Overlook and Shadow Glen in Sacramento County. The day-use facilities, restrooms and boat launching facilities at these locations are open.

9. El Dorado Hills Community Services recently opened its skate park, playgrounds, Community Dog Park, basketball, bocce, tennis, and volleyball courts. Read its Reopening FAQs here .

10. Most restaurants at the El Dorado Hills Town Center are open for dine-in, including Aji, C. Knight Steakhouse, Milestone, and many more.

Sacramento/Elk Grove

The Aerospace Museum of California at McClellan reopened its outdoor museum space back in April and was the first outdoor museum space in the Sacramento area to do so, at least among those requiring paid admission.
Movie Theaters , including Cinemark’s Century complexes at DOCO , Laguna in Elk Grove , Arden , and Greenback .
Reserve your tickets in advance to the Sacramento Zoo , which recently re-opened last month. Be sure to stop by the newly opened alligators exhibit!
Tahoe Park Dinner to Go by SactoMo Food Trucks
Join the community on Fridays in Tahoe Park for "Dinners To-Go" from 4 p.m to 8 p.m. for a delicious range of gourmet food trucks! Check out SactoMo’s Facebook for a complete list of food truck events in the Sacramento area. You can order online for a complete contact-less dinner experience.
For those of us who just couldn’t wait to get our hands on those giant smoked turkey legs and kettle corn, there will be a California State Fair Food Festival To-Go on July 3rd, 2020 where you can pre-order and pick up fair food at the fairgrounds.
Some shops and restaurants at DOCO Downtown Commons , including Macy’s and Popbar.

Roseville/Rocklin/Granite Bay

To promote social distancing, Golfland/Sunsplash has date specific tickets to control attendance. Miniature golf, laser tag, the arcade, and water slides are open with reservations.
Quarry Park Adventures is perfect for anyone looking for summer thrills. You can reserve your tickets online for ziplining, rock climbing, bungee jumping, and much more.
Movie Theaters , including Century Roseville and Blue Oaks in Rocklin are opening early July.
Most shops and restaurants are open at the Westfield Galleria in Roseville.

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Here's How to Keep Your Kids Connected While Distance-Learning This School Year

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 16:20:24 GMT

Updated 6/2/2021:

Since many parks and playgrounds are still open to the public during this time, you can arrange park playdates with a neighbor you know or with family members that have children. We recommend keeping playdates limited to one other family at a single time, and connecting only with that one family (and their children) for the next few months. It is not the best idea to arrange playdates with several different families, even if you are meeting them one at a time. The key is to limit exposure, which means limiting the number of people you and your children are interacting with.

According to Wendy Proskin, M.D., pediatrician at Westmed Medical Group, it's probably possible for older kids to have safe, socially distanced playdates, but not for children younger than 3rd grade who do not yet understand the concepts of personal space and social distancing. While parents know their own kids and what they are capable of, Dr. Proskin suggests more supervision than pre-COVID playdates.

Another good idea for an outdoor playdate is scheduling times for your children to ride their bikes in the neighborhood around the same time their friends are bike-riding. This will encourage social wellness while social distancing.

A good rule of thumb is if your child has a hard time keeping his or her mask on, an in-person playdate is not a good option for you. If you do opt for playdates, be sure to encourage frequent hand-washing and pre-sanitizing playground equipment for your children embark on their outdoor adventure.

2. Virtual Playdates & Dance Parties

Whether your child wants to virtually meet up with a group of school friends or simply chat one-on-one with buddy for a few minutes, virtual interaction can help their overall well-being. Apps, websites, and services like Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp and Marco Polo make it possible for kids to have some digital time with friends.

Younger children will enjoy Facebook Messenger for Kids, which allows children to chat, play games, and add funny filters during their video calls.

Some ideas for when your kids are video-chatting are: reading to each other, dancing to the same music, working on a project together, or simply sharing ideas on what tv shows they are watching, etc. For older kids, their social lives are all online anyway, so it might be an okay time to think about relaxing screen time rules.

3. Start a Book Club or Craft Club

If you have children who normally read for fun, they would probably love to start a book club with friends. This is trendy for tweens and older kids who typically read book series and can share what they’re reading with each other. Have kids who are more on the crafty side? Arrange a weekly time for arts and crafts projects that they can do with friends at the same but virtually.

4. Game Nights

In addition to video game systems like Xbox Live or Nintendo Online that can be played with friends virtually, apps like online game site Pogo allow your kids to play some of their favorite board games, such as Monopoly and Yahtzee.

Do your kids prefer card games instead? Let’s Play Uno allows them to play Uno with friends for free. Pokemon Go is another game that lets kids to interact with friends and track their activity in the game. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the game’s manufacturers have made adjustments to the game that bring the Pokemon closer to home.

5. Cook & Dine Together

Cooking and eating a meal together is a classic way to socialize so set up some lunch-time playdates. A simultaneous cooking experience in which the kids can make the same lunch or dinner in their own kitchens while online with one another, is a great way for them to follow a recipe and interact with one another. Afterwards, they can sit down to enjoy it together.

Which one of these ideas are you willing to try this school year? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

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Father's Day Gift Guide

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 22:25:58 GMT

Updated 6/2/2021:

Axe Throwing Experience

Prices Vary | The Smart Axe

Designer Shoes from Taft

Starting at $198 | Taft Shoes

Top Golf Gift Card or Experience

Prices Vary - Roseville Location

Golfing ranges are so passé. Help dad work on his swing in the comfort of his own bay, with drinks, snacks and good company. Bonus: this doubles as a gift for you as well, if he lets you tag along!

A Quality Timepiece

Starting at $319

Talisman Collection in El Dorado Hills

Jord Wooden Watches

A Local Brewery Experience

Prices vary

Burning Barrel , Moonraker , Slice Beer Company , New Glory , Fieldwork , Kathrin’s Biergarten , Hillenbrand Farmhaus Brewery , J.J. Pfister, Distilling (Bourbon/Whiskey)

A Custom-Made Book

$29.99 | Wonderbly

Cue the tears! The personalized “I Love You This Much” Daddy Edition by Wonderbly allows you to customize a darling 38-page book for dad featuring your own kid’s name and likeness.

Larq Self-Sanitizing Water Bottle

$95.00 | LARQhuckberry.com

On-The-Go Coffee Mug

$24.99 | Yeti Rambler

Your not-so-average joe deserves a great cup of joe! Get him a cool camp mug, like this Yeti Rambler and pair it with some of his favorite beans.

Genetic Ethnicity + Traits Test

$119.00 | amazon.com

uKeg GO Growler

$99.00 | GrowlerWerksbespokepost.com

Should he want to take ice-cold, freshly carbonated beer with him to a picnic, campsite, or even just the backyard, this is the way to do it. Here's hoping he shares it around.

AirPods with Wireless Charging Case

$169.00 (15% off) | amazon.com

AirPods are changing the music- and podcast-listening game. Dad will wear these wireless headphones everywhere, all the time.

Acorn Moc Slipper

$45.00 | Acorn

Cuisinart Deluxe Stainless Steel 14-Piece Grill Set

$43.50 | Amazon

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June 2020 Market Update

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 16:25:28 GMT

Sacramento region's housing market is competitive despite pandemic

The stay-at-home orders issued in March to slow the spread of COVID-19 drastically changed the Sacramento real estate market overnight. For weeks California real estate agents couldn't hold open houses because there were restrictions on showings. This resulted in a small dip in the market, because of the unknown.

As we head into summer things are heating up. The number of pending sales and listings in the Sacramento region is actually increasing, according to this recent article . Over the past six weeks, we've seen sellers and buyers get more comfortable, and so we’ve seen a lot more listings hit the market.

Snapshot of the Local Market:

In April 2020, the median list price of homes in Sacramento County was $400,000, trending up 3.9% year-over-year.
The average days on the market in April was 16, down from 26 days in the previous month, according to the Sacramento Association of Realtors .
Active Listing Inventory is up 10% over last month, but down -12.9% compared to last year.

Key Takeaways:

The Market is Still Active

The first couple of weeks after the pandemic hit, the market was affected by a degree of shock factor, with March sales down 8% on the previous month. However, the latest NAR survey has revealed that potential buyers and sellers are not out of the market – they are just delaying their entry point. People still have a great desire to buy, sell, and own a home as demonstrated by May’s numbers.

Lack of Inventory is Still an Issue

There was a housing shortage before the pandemic hit and there is still an acute shortage today. Because of this inventory shortage, it is unlikely that house prices will decline going forward and data shows that there is little expectation by buyers for any big discount. For the year as a whole in 2020, it is anticipated that sales activity will be down about 10% to 15%, which is very acceptable for a bump in a year. Going into 2021, with pent-up demand, it is expected that sales will increase by about 15%, with prices rising 3% to 5%.

Expect a Busy Summer & Fall

This is an adversity that we will get through. We will come out the other side with more knowledge and better relationships, which is a very good starting point for the upturn that is anticipated to happen later in the year.

If you’re interested in more information on the current housing market, we recommend watching this interview: The Podcast Every Homeowner Needs to Hear- An Interview with Dr Lawrence Yu n

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5 Ways to Celebrate 4th of July Pandemic-Style

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 22:12:51 GMT

With most traditional events canceled due to the Coronavirus outbreak, 4th of July will look a bit different this year. We’ve come up with a list of fun and patriotic ways to celebrate Independence Day while social distancing. Let us know which is your favorite by leaving us a comment!

1. Folsom’s Star-Spangled Drive-In

If you’re a Folsom, Cameron Park, or El Dorado Hills resident, you’re quite familiar with the annual fanfare of the Folsom Pro Rodeo and fireworks show. Of course, in light of COVID19, these favored events are canceled, but an alternative event has been planned. The Folsom Chamber of Commerce is producing the only known live fireworks show in the region. “Folsom’s Star-Spangled Drive-In” will take place at Folsom Ranch, located on the south side of Highway 50, on the evening of July 3. Presale tickets are available at www.folsomprorodeo.com .

Some neighborhoods are hosting parades where you can decorate your cars, trucks and bikes for the 4th of July, similar to what some have done for 2020 high school graduates. Streamers, flags, and red, white, and blue balloons are just some of the things you can use to get festive.

Car parades are a great way to stay connected with the community while keeping safe in the comfort of your vehicle. To find out if your neighborhood is hosting a car parade, check out local Facebook groups, contact your HOA, or visit your city’s web site for information. Nothing planned just yet on your block? Plan it yourself! Invite your neighbors to join in or do a bike and stroller parade with your kiddos.

3. Watch a Fireworks Show At Home

Almost all the scheduled firework shows in the Sacramento area have been cancelled, but some cities like Elk Grove are setting off fireworks in undisclosed locations for residents to enjoy from home. Be sure to check with your city or town to find out if a pandemic-safe firework show is happening near you.

4. DIY Fireworks Show

From tiny sparklers to large rockets and fountains, you can light up your sky this year by opting to do your own fireworks show. Visit a TNT Fireworks booth to purchase legal fireworks while supporting the nonprofit organizations and schools that run them. Many TNT booths serve as fundraisers, for example, John F. Kennedy High School's marching band and color guard has had a booth in Lake Crest Village near the corner of Florin Road and Greenhaven Drive for years. Check out the TNT fireworks web site to find a location near you.

5. Go to the Drive-In Movie Theater

With classic and new movies playing, the West Wind Drive-in movie theater is a great way to get entertained this July 4th. Though the concessions stand will be closed and you won’t be able to sit or stand outside of your car, you can still enjoy a night out with family watching a film on the big screen. Be sure to check out their web site for show times and movies playing, as they change each week.

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Time for a Credit Quiz

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 21:47:38 GMT

When it comes to building credit, it can be difficult to tell fact from fiction. Use this short true-or-false quiz to help you get the facts straight and your credit in great shape!

TRUE OR FALSE?

Any debt will hurt my credit. FALSE: An outstanding mortgage being paid on time isn’t the same as $30,000 worth of credit card debt. An outstanding mortgage that’s paid on time is considered “good debt,” and it can raise your score. Stay away from consumer debt!

When I pay off my debt, it’ll disappear from my credit report. FALSE: Paid debt will remain on your credit report for several years. If it was paid on time, it can boost your score. Bankruptcy, defaulted loans and other negative information can hurt, sticking around for 7-10 years.

Even though I got a promotion my credit score is unaffected. TRUE: Income and job title may indirectly affect your score, but salary is not factored into your report. Still, head’s up — lenders may ask about your employment to determine how likely you are to pay your debts.

My spouse and I can run a joint credit report. FALSE: Each individual receives their own credit score. Your joint accounts and shared loans may impact each of your scores, since they will appear on each of your reports.

Closing my paid-off credit card isn’t going to help my credit score. TRUE: It may pay to keep it open. Closing an unused card reduces your amount of credit and limits your credit history, which can sometimes lower your credit score. But if that credit card is tempting you to spend, close it!

Checking my own credit score won’t impact it. TRUE: Running your own credit report does not negatively impact your score. When a lender checks for a mortgage, car loan or credit card application, it may lower your score a few points.

Get your free annual credit report at Annual Credit Report

Check your credit score for free with Credit Karma , Credit Sesame , Credit.com , Equifax , Experian or Mint

Between FICO®, VantageScore and other models, there is no single way to calculate your credit score. Take a look at the top two models and how they are calculated.

35% Payment History
30% Credit Utilization
15% Length of Credit History
10% Credit Mix
10% New Credit & Recently Opened Accounts

40% Payment History
21% Duration & Type of Credit
20% Credit Utilization
11% Total Balances
5% Recent Behavior
3% Available Credit

FICO is the most common credit ranking. Score varies depending on the reason for the loan. Your result for an auto loan might be different than your score for a department store credit card.

Developed by the major credit reporting bureaus, this model is used by some popular free credit report sites as well as lenders, landlords and financial institutions to see if you are credit worthy. Your score will be similar but rarely identical to FICO.

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Fun Challenges to Do At Home With The Family

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 21:25:54 GMT

Everyone loves a little competition! Taking a cue from some of the TV shows of now or yesteryear, here a few fun “challenges” you and your family can participate in while you’re hanging at home.

Take a page out of the ‘Chopped’ cookbook and put together a meal using ingredients you don’t know until they are revealed. Each participant chooses the ingredients the other will use (remember, don’t get too adventurous...you’re the taste tester). Choose a designated amount of time to prepare the meal and GO! Once the meal is complete, rate each other on different categories: presentation, taste and use of ingredients.

In fashion, you are either in or you are out. Pattern this challenge after the hit show, ‘Project Runway’. Go into your closet and find items you can use to put together “looks”. Choose different themes: summer fun, all dressed up and nowhere to go (formal), avant garde, monochromatic, etc. Once your ensemble is complete, work the runway and do a photo shoot. Post pictures to social to see who makes the cut!

Set up an obstacle course either in your house or in your yard. Use anything and everything you can find to make a multitude of different challenges for you and your family. Whether they are ‘Minute to Win It’ style or old school ‘Double Dare’ messy, make it as difficult or easy as you’d like. Best part is that you can change up the order of the activities and have a whole other experience.

Whether you can name the 50 states in alphabetical order or do a somersault, we’ve all got talent hidden inside of us. Base this challenge off the hit show, ‘You Got Talent’. Have each person in your family show off their talent no matter how silly. Start and see who ends up with the price.

Who doesn’t love a good old fashioned lip sync? The idea for this dynamic competition is taken from the super hilarious ‘Lip Sync Battle’. Each contestant (that’s you and your family) picks a song and then outfits themselves with a costume and some sweet dance moves. One by one perform your ditty and make it look pretty! Record the performances and make a compilation to either post or share for some good laughs.

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Preparing Your Credit for the Future

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 21:04:25 GMT

With all the COVID-19 information circulating in the media, it’s hard to focus on anything else. As we continue to navigate these uncertain times together, it’s important to remember that this too shall pass. That’s why this month, we want to share information to help you prepare your financial future for life after a pandemic.

Credit is one subject that will always be important. No matter what your current financial situation is, you can use this information to become a credit master and strengthen your own score down the line. There is also a breakdown of the different scoring models to highlight habits that will help you achieve credit success.

What Should I Do if My Income Is Stable?

DO keep right on working the Baby Steps like you have been.

DO pay your bills on time. This isn’t a free pass to skip out.

DO use your stimulus money to help you crush your goals—use it to speed up the Baby Step you’re on.

DO NOT pause your debt snowball!

DO NOT cash out your 401(k). You won’t even see the losses unless you take your money out of the

market—so don’t!

DO NOT defer (aka delay) your student loan payments—keep attacking these with a vengeance.

DO NOT stop paying your mortgage.

What Should I Do if I Was Laid Off/Furloughed or if My Income Is NOT Stable?

DO pause your debt snowball! You need all that extra money on hand right now.

DO make sure your Four Walls (food, utilities, shelter and transportation—in that order) are covered, then pile up cash as high as you can.

DO make the minimum payments on your debt (if you can swing it).

DO cut out all unnecessary spending from your budget (think need versus want).

DO look for a part-time job wherever you can find one!

DO use any stimulus money to cover your Four Walls and then toss anything leftover into your emergency fund.

DO NOT take out a payday loan! Run as far from these snakes as you can.

DO NOT get a HELOC (home equity line of credit)—it will only dig a deeper hole.

DO NOT stop paying your mortgage. Shelter is one of the Four Walls, so make sure it stays at the top of the list.

DO NOT cash out your 401(k) unless you’re facing foreclosure or bankruptcy.

Should I File for Unemployment?

DO check in with your state government to see if you qualify for unemployment benefits.

DO keep looking for work (even if you’re getting unemployment).

DO NOT file for unemployment if you can bring in at least 50% of your income by working another job (part time or full time).

Even though the world seems to be on pause right now, this situation will pass. When it does, you will be ready to view your credit with fresh eyes and come out stronger, no matter where you started. In the meantime, please know that I am here for you and your family during these challenging times. If there’s anything we can do to help, do not hesitate to call: (916) 801-1105. Stay healthy!

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Painted Rocks Project

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 20:50:36 GMT

Painted Rocks:

The idea behind the painted rocks project is that you will decorate them and place them in locations for others to find as a “random act of kindness.” How cool is that?

We would like to invite you and your children to join us in spreading kindness. Here’s how it works:

1. Get creative! Bust out the paint supplies and decorate your rock any way you want. 2. Take pictures while painting your rocks.

3. Once complete go on a walk and hide your rocks for someone to find.

4. Share your pictures with the Sherri Patterson Team! We are going to feature this in our upcoming magazine and would love to include your children and their masterpieces.

Here are my favorite tips for achieving the best-painted rocks:

Pick smooth, flat rocks. You can decorate any rock, but it’s harder to decorate ones with ridges. Wash the rocks before decorating them. You want to remove dirt so that it doesn’t mess your design. You can wash several at once with dish soap and leave in a colander to drain and dry.

Seal the rock before painting on it. Use a clear brush on or spray sealer. This helps so that the rocks (which are porous) don’t suck the life out of your markers. Another option: prime with white paint to help the colors that you paint on top appear more vibrant.
Paint your design on top and use several coats . . . let dry between layers. Use an outdoor or multi-surface paint to help them hold up to the elements.
Use small brushes or a stylus to make small details and/or dots.
Use oil based paint pens and Sharpies to write on your rocks. Just make sure to let fully dry before any writing.
Finish off your rocks with a coat (or two or three) of Mod Podge Outdoor . This will help protect your beautiful painted rocks from the elements.

And my favorite tip: if you mess up, wipe it off or wash it away while the paint is still wet. You can dab a corner of a paper towel in water and do it quickly and easily. You’ll have a great time learning how to paint rocks!

Please send your pictures to marketing@sherripatterson.net or text Sherri directly with photos!

Call me to get started with a comparative market analysis to see how your home compares to others recently sold in the area

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Ways to Liven Up Your Time at Home

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:08:09 GMT

Need a little inspiration to mix up your family’s routine? Try these outside-of-the-box activities to liven up your time - you could even emerge with some positive memories.

Dinner ‘Round the World

Host a global family dinner! You can prepare each course from a different country, or cook the entire meal using one country’s cousin. Take it at step further be researching music and fashion from each country and create a vibe that makes it feel like your’re actually there.

Stay in, Work Out

Transforming your living room into a gym. Look for great workouts on YouTube,or even Facebook or Instagram Live, and make it part of your routine. It will feel like you’re right there in class with the instructor, plus you’ll get some energy out.

The Art of the Matter

Make a craft with your family using supplies you already have. Have some fun getting resourceful - how can you and the kids turn those empty cleaning wipe container and cardboard paper towels tubes into masterpieces? Display the work in a family “gallery” in your home.

A Family Friendly Competition

Game night, anyone? Choose one night a week to play a board game, card game or even a group video game, and raise the stakes by making it a mini family tournament. Let each family member take a turn picking the game.

Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt

Create a list of items you could find around the neighborhood - a house with blue shutters, a green front door, a certain type of car, etc. Get outside* with your kids to identify these things on the list. Make it a neighborhood activity with an album on Facebook or Next-door to post of your finds!

Call me to get started with a comparative market analysis to see how your home compares to others recently sold in the area

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Getting Clarity During COVID-19

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 18:53:51 GMT

THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS MANY ON EDGE ABOUT THE ECONOMY AND THE REAL ESTATE MARKET. HERE IS A LOOK AT WHAT’S REALLY GOING ON, ACCORDING TO DR. LAWRENCE YUN , CHIEF ECONOMIST AT THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, AND REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY LEADER BRIAN BUFFINI .

The Economy Will Bounce Back

Economies in China and South Korea are already starting to recover as coronavirus gets more controlled.

No Imminent Housing Crash

Overbuilding has declined dramatically since 2008 — in fact, builders have been underproducing, and banks have increased regulations to protect borrowers from subprime mortgages.

If the “economic quarantine” is short, real estate could bounce back in one to two months.

Because market fundamentals are strong, housing is safe in the long-term.

Spring Selling Season Pushed Back

Expect the market to jump again in late summer and early fall. Pent-up demand could lead to a hot market later this year

Buy Now if You Can, Wait if You Can’t

Mortgage rates are at historic lows, with Yun suggesting they could get as low as three percent.

If you’re worried about your job, pause the homebuying process. If you know you’re secure, now could be a good time to lock in a low-rate mortgage.

Now is the Time to Serve

Serve others by practicing social distancing to avoid the spread of illness.

Help your friends and neighbors in ways that are responsible, safe and sanitary, like dropping off groceries on the doorstep of an elderly neighbor.

Connect with others in your community on social media platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor.

Call me to get started with a comparative market analysis to see how your home compares to others recently sold in the area

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5 Tips Buyers Should Know

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 18:41:14 GMT

Even if you’re not planning to buy right now, these tips will help demystify the real estate process.

1.Your First Offer Sends a Message

An initial offer that’s too low may cause the seller to fire back with a higher price, or not respond at all. Also note that haggling sellers down to their lowest price may make them less likely to cover repairs.

2. Check Your Inspections

Even if the seller has had a prelisting inspection, you still have the option to set up a home inspection to catch anything they might have missed.

3. The Title May Come with Baggage

You’ll need to use a title company or attorney to run a “title search” on your prospective home. This checks for issues like back taxes, liens, etc. that might affect the transaction

4. Account for Closing Costs

Be sure to budget for these out of pocket expenses typically shared by both buyers and sellers during closing. Buyers usually pay three to four percent of the home price.

5. Rely on Your Real Estate Professional

You’re not in this alone! I’m here to get you a good deal and make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Call me to get started!

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5 Tips Seller Should Know

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 18:13:12 GMT

Thinking about selling your home? As you start the process, consider the following suggestions.

1. Keep the Price Realistic

Name your price based on the guidance of your real estate pro, who has access to current market data. An overpriced home takes longer to sell; make it easier by keeping it fair.

2. Stage Your Home

Staging your home to reflect layout and design trends can make it more appealing to buyers, and so can professional listing photos. I’ll take care of this for you during the selling process!

3. Updates Are Investments

Replacing old appliances and fixtures and decluttering your home will make it more attractive to buyers and potentially increase the value. View these updates as an investment, not an expense

4. Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection

When you order an inspection before listing your home, you can address issues early and save time during closing.

5. Trust Your Real Estate Professional

Call me to get started with a comparative market analysis to see how your home compares to others recently sold in the area

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2020 Real Estate Market Facts

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 17:52:13 GMT

Your quick guide to the national real estate market in 2020 —- by the numbers!

3 Weeks

Median Length of Time Homes

are on the Market

3.9 Months

Time it would take for all the

homes currently on the market to sell

3 Weeks

Median Length of Time Homes are on the Market

Mortgage Rates

Remain historically low, helping new buyers enter the market

2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2019

Home Buying in 2020

33%

of all buyers are first-time buyers.

59% of first-time buyers

are 18-34 years old.

Buyers typically searched 10 weeks

and looked at an average of 9 homes.

44% of Buyers looked online first

for properties listed in their area.

75% of non-owners

see homeownership as a part of their

American Dream.

78% of non-owners

believe homeownership is a good

financial decision.

Home Selling in 2020

Sellers sold their homes for a median of 99% of their final listing price

23% reduced asking price at least once

In 2019, sellers were getting a median of $60,000 more than what they purchased the home for — in 2018, that amount was $55,500.

31% is the median amount of equity a seller had in the home.

Winning Through Referrals

of buyers used an agent referred to them by a friend, neighbor, or relative.

of sellers found their agent through a referral from a friend or family member, or used the same agent they had worked with the last time they bought or sold a home.

would use their agent again or refer them to others

Whether you have questions about the market or know someone who is ready to buy or sell this year, I’m here to help with all of your real estate needs! Just give me a call!

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2005 vs 2020: Changing Times, Changing Markets

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 16:18:44 GMT

Many people are approaching this year anticipating another recession. However, times have changed, and there are quite a few differences between the years that led up to 2008 and today that may ease these concerns.

When adjusted for inflation, today’s home prices are lower than those in 2006 that contributed to the crash.

Subprime or nonprime loans (granted to borrowers unable to qualify for conventional mortgages) only made up a small percentage of loans in the past five years compared to 20% in 2005

Homeowners are more cautious, choosing to retain equity in their homes instead of borrowing against them.

Stricter lending standards reduce the likelihood of borrowers defaulting on their mortgages.

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Real Estate 2020: National Market Outlook

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 16:06:50 GMT

It’s impossible to predict the future, but here’s a look at where the real estate market stands at the beginning of 2020.

First-Time Buyers Toss Their Hats in the Ring

FIRST-TIME BUYERS COMPRISED 33% OF ALL HOME BUYERS.

EXPLAINED: MANY OLDER MILLENNIALS (AGES 29 TO 38) ARE GETTING INTO THE MARKET.

BIGGER PICTURE: LOW RATES MAKE A MONTHLY MORTGAGE MORE APPEALING THAN THE MONTHLY RENT, ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO PURCHASE A HOME AND BUILD EQUITY.

Existing Home Sales Looking Up

EXISTING HOME SALES INCREASED IN 2019.

EXPLAINED: BUYERS TOOK ADVANTAGE OF LOW INTEREST RATES, LEADING TO MORE HOMES BEING SOLD.

BIGGER PICTURE: IT’S A GOOD TIME FOR SELLERS, WITH HOMES SPENDING ABOUT A MONTH ON THE MARKET.

Home Prices Continue to Rise

HOME PRICES CREPT UP SLOWLY YEAR-OVER-YEAR IN 2019

EXPLAINED: INVENTORY IS STILL TIGHT, CONTRIBUTING TO A STEADY INCREASE IN PRICES.

BIGGER PICTURE: DESPITE THIS STEADY INCREASE, HISTORICALLY LOW MORTGAGE RATES MAKE THE MONTHLY PAYMENT MORE AFFORDABLE.

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10 Tips for a Healthy, Stress-Free Holiday

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 21:11:58 GMT

Keep calm and let the holiday cheer carry on! Here are some quick tips to have a healthy, stress-free holiday.

1) Make a budget for gifts and stick to it.

2) Finalize your shopping schedule so you’re not purchasing gifts hours before the party.

3) Keep a master list of your holiday tasks to stay organized. This is just to make sure nothing slips through the cracks - no need to cross everything off in one day!

4) Squeeze in 30 - 60 minutes each day to reset and unwind. Try an uplifting movie, book or podcast!

5) Get plenty of sleep — experts say eight hours is best to reduce your risk of catching a cold.

6) Stay hydrated to protect yourself from bugs and viruses. Carry a bottle of water with you at work or on shopping trips.

7) Carry hand sanitizer to use after touching mall doors, pushing elevator buttons, exchanging money, etc.

8) Consider taking Vitamin C to boost immunity and Vitamin D to offset any winter blues.

9) Bring a nutritious side dish or dessert to your celebration. Look for delicious recipes on Pinterest, MyFitnessPal or your favorite food blog.

10) Wait 10 minutes after your first helping at the holiday dinner, then check in with your appetite before getting seconds to avoid overeating.

Remember the Reason for the Season!

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath and refocus on what matters: family, joy, laughter and time with the ones you love. Wishing you and your family the happiest of holidays!

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5 Tips To Stress Less This Holiday Season!

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 18:48:08 GMT

While holiday celebrations can be fun, planning and hosting -- and in some cases, even attending -- can be stressful. Here are five tips to reduce your stress levels this holiday, so you can focus on what’s important!

Establish expectations ahead of time with your family on the intention of your celebration. This helps keep everyone on the same page to avoid uncomfortable dinner conversations.

Assign each attendee to a different dish to cut down on kitchen activity — someone takes an appetizer, dessert, side dish, etc. Send a reminder a few days before so folks remember to bring their dish!

If you’re driving to the party, leave plenty of time to get there in case of traffic or inclement weather. Consider a ride share to avoid having to drive at all.

Designate a “clean up committee” to help with clearing the table, sorting dishes, bagging up leftovers, etc. Opening presents? Have a large trash bag nearby for guests to dispose of wrapping paper.

Treat yourself to a massage after the holiday hustle is over!

It’s been a pleasure serving you this year, and I look forward to continuing that level of care in 2020. Whatever you do to celebrate this season, I wish you and your family a cheerful holiday and a wonderful New Year!

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Liven Up Your Holiday Celebration With These Fun Tips!

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 18:31:41 GMT

Gathering with family and friends is one of the best parts of the holiday season. Make your celebration stand out with these fun activities!

Game On

Have board games and card games to play around the table. Keep them simple, friendly and fun: e.g. Scrabble, Apples to Apples or your favorite card game.

Get Crafty

Have an arts and crafts project that everyone can do. Make an ornament, decorate cookies or build a gingerbread house.

Festive Tunes

Create a holiday playlist or choose a station on your favorite streaming service to keep the energy up, and the music on autopilot!

Strike A Pose

Put out a Polaroid camera or a few disposable cameras for guests to capture memories. Think of the photos as a special personalized gift!

Write a Note

Set up a station for guests to write personal notes to friends and family expressing why that person is important to them. Make it a craft — provide blank cards that guests can decorate with stickers and custom designs.

Theme It

Theme your celebration! Invite guests to wear their favorite holiday sweater or dress like a character from their favorite seasonal movie or television show.

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About our Team

The Science of Gratitude : What are Your Grateful For?

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 16:56:06 GMT

The science is in — a grateful disposition reduces materialism, risk of burnout and symptoms of depression and makes you happier! Here are three small acts with big impacts to help you practice gratitude daily.

Handwritten Notes

Get Started

· Pick up a pen and a pack of blank notecards

· Send at least one note a week

· Keep it positive, including at least one reason why you’re grateful for this connection.

(Studies show... People who write notes are more satisfied with life and show fewer symptoms of depression )

Small Acts of Kindness

Get Started

· Buy coffee for a coworker or donuts for the office

· Be a genuine listener – Look for opportunities to fill a need

· Get lunch with a friend who is new to the area

(Studies show... More kindness means more happiness! When participants in one study performed acts of kindness for friends, family members and colleagues for seven days, they all reported higher levels of happiness and well-being)

Daily Gratitude Check-In’s

Get Started

· Write three things you’re grateful for on a sticky note, and glance at it regularly

· Take a daily walk, and reflect on what you’re grateful for

· Keep a gratitude journal, updating at the beginning or end of your day

(Studies show... Counting our blessings increases well-being. Writing down what you’re grateful for each week creates more life satisfaction and optimism for the week ahead)

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About our Team

H[app]iness Tracking Apps to Log Your Gratitude

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 16:40:11 GMT

As you increase your happiness, use these apps to track your progress and remind you to smile, breathe and have a bit of fun!

Track Your Happiness

Created by Harvard University researchers, this app prompts you to answer questions throughout the day, generating a “happiness report” after 50 questions.

Happify

This app calculates happiness score based on a questionnaire. It provides games and activities to help shift your mindset, tackle stress and find more happiness.

My Gratitude Journal

This digital journal helps you track five things you’re grateful for each day, and gives rewards as incentives to stay consistent.

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About our Team

Sending Holiday Cards in a Time Crunch

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 16:33:58 GMT

If you have plans to send out a holiday card but haven’t started yet, have no fear! These helpful tips, tricks, and services make it easy to send the perfect card.

Find Your Photo

Choose a family photo or special moment from your smart phone to include in your card design

TIP: Consider Going with a Pro!

Rally the family together for a professional photo session. You’ll get high-quality photos to use for the rest of the year.

Design The Card

Here are a few online services to help you design a stunning card. Some will even mail them out for you!

· Minted

· Shutterfly

· Moo

· Canva

· Paper Source

· Etsy

Quick Printing

If you still need to print the card, stores like Costco and Staples offer quick turnaround times.

Mail

Make it a family affair! Each person has a different role – designate an

· Envelope Stuffer

· Sealer

· Stamper

· Address Labeler

Throw on some music or a movie to make it more fun!

** December 20th, 2019 – USPS deadline for the first-class mail to arrive before the New Year**

Still Not Enough Time?

Try these options!

Happy New Year!

If the Holidays are just too busy, send a New Year’s greeting card. You’ll buy yourself more time to design while also wishing your friends good fortune in 2020.

Go Digital

Try an E-Card instead. Several websites offer templates for beautifully designed digital cards that will be just as meaningful.

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

Must Go-To Annual Events in Sacramento

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 18:45:44 GMT

The Sacramento Area boasts plenty of fun events year-round. Here are our team’s faves!

Hoyt Crossing Rd. Nevada City, CA

Sherri Recommends : Lights on the Lake

Lights on the Lake in South Lake Tahoe, CA, is always spectacular. The show is synchronized to music and billed as one of the largest and best Independence Day fireworks display in the country.

The California State Fair at Cal Expo is a 17-day affair and is one of Sacramento’s favorite events. It features rides, attractions, shows, deep-fried, over sized food, livestock, and so much more!

Fran Recommends : California State Fair

Elsa Recommends : Berryfest Strawberry Festival

Besides loads of strawberries, different types of food and treats, Berryfest is packed with fun, not just for kids! There’s a second line parade, paint-a-rock project, princess pageant, and a strawberry shortcake eating contest!

The Fab 40’s Christmas Lights is the most well known spot to explore East Sacramento’s residents Christmas display all night long! These homes put on an amazing show every year starting in December through New Years.

Ellie Recommends : Fab 40’s Christmas Lights

Alyssa Recommends : Scott’s Seafood Tasting Series

www.scottsseafoodontheriver.com

Scott’s hosts tastings each year with themes ranging from Bubbles to Bourbon to tasty Bivalves. Enjoy delicious bites created by Chef Brandon Meadows while mingling outdoors along the river with the Delta breezes and live music, learning about the history from industry professionals. This event is held outside of the Westin Hotel & Scott's Seafood in Sacramento.

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About our Team

Clients’ Favorite Places To Relax And Renew Themselves

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 18:32:34 GMT

Our clients gave us the scoop on their favorite places in the Sacramento area and beyond to relax and getaway. Lucky for us, many of these hot spots are as little as an hour away!

Yuba River, Hoyt’s Crossing: Nevada City, CA

Hiking with an Amazing View!

Hoyt Trail along Yuba River is located near Nevada City, California and is perfect for hiking, walking, nature trips and birding. The trail leads to swimming holes along the South Yuba River and historic Hoyt Crossing, a popular hangout for skinny-dippers and other river lovers in summer. Southern exposure means warmth on cool days and wildflowers in the spring.

Hoyt Crossing Rd. Nevada City, CA

Monterey, CA

Beaches, Car shows, and Nostalgia

Monterey offers iconic Northern California experiences, with a little something special for everyone. Its Cannery Row is a popular strip of gift shops, seafood restaurants and bars in converted factories. Also famous is Monterey Bay Aquarium, with thousands of marine animals and plants on display in underwater and interactive exhibits. Visit Monterey Bay, Carmel by the Sea and Big Sur for relaxing by the beach.

www.seemonterey.com

South Lake Tahoe, CA

Camping, Casinos, & Lake Life

A two-hour drive to South Lake Tahoe can be the relaxing getaway you’re looking for. Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it offers winter sports, water sports, casinos, night clubs, bike trails, and plenty of restaurants

www.tahoesouth.com

Capitola, CA

Mediterranean-like Beach Town

Capitola is California’s oldest seaside resort town and continues to be a popular spot for those looking for a picturesque, quaint and relaxing vacation destination. Capitola is known for its beautiful beaches and historic and colorful architecture.

www.capitolavillage.com

Muir Woods, CA

Treetop and Ocean Views

Muir Woods National Monument is an ancient redwood forest north of San Francisco. It’s known for its towering old-growth redwood trees. Trails wind among the trees to Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove and along Red-wood Creek.

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About our Team

Clients’ Favorite Wineries And Breweries

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 18:11:46 GMT

We surveyed our clients to find out their favorite wineries and breweries in the Sacramento and Northern California area. Here are their top choices.

Wise Villa Winery: Lincoln, CA

www.wisevillawinery.com

Voted No.1 Winery in CA!

Wise Villa Winery is the “2015 Gold-en State Winery of the Year”, award-ed by the California State Fair and is a family owned and operated win-ery, estate vineyard and Tuscan-style bistro located in the Sierra Foothills Wine Appellation of Placer County.

Hipster Beer Garden

Drake’s BARN features food, beverages, and entertainment along the river in West Sacramento. Enjoy the full service PizzaSmith restaurant, YO?LO! Food Truck, 400 seat beer garden and bar, and fire pits. Choose from over 25+ beers on tap, wine, or cock-tails. Then listen to music on three stages, or relax in the large open meadow with beach chairs and lawn games.

Drakes Barn: West Sacramento, CA

www.drinkdrakes.com

Helwig Vineyards: Plymouth, CA

www.helwigwinery.com

Live music, cave tours, & more

Located in Plymouth, California, Helwig Winery offers sweeping vistas overlooking lush vineyards, breathtaking views of the Sierra and Coastal mountains, and a sky you won’t believe until you see it for yourself. During the summer, Helwig hosts a live concert series and the venue is open for wedding ceremonies throughout the year.

Fieldwork TapRoom: Sacramento, CA

Craft Beer at it’s Finest

Fieldwork’s Sacramento Taproom is located in The Handle District. Visitors to the Sacramento Taproom can expect an ever-changing tap list of fresh releases to enjoy by sampler flight, beer by the glass and fresh beer filled “to go” in growlers and Crowler cans. The Taproom also offers delicious sandwiches.

www.fieldworkbrewing.com/sacramento

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Rent First or Buy Now? Which Do You Choose?

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 17:30:55 GMT

Rent First or Buy Now?

Relocating is a huge step. Here’s what to consider if you decide to rent before purchasing a home in a new area.

One of the first major decisions a relocating family usually makes is whether they will start their new life in a home they own or if they will rent first. Over the past two years, we’ve helped dozens of families relocate to the Sacramento area and have found that either could be a viable option depending on the family’s needs, financial picture and overall goals. Here’s a breakdown of the pros of both.

RENTING

A viable option if you’re unsure of whether you’re planning to stay in a new area.

Low maintenance responsibilities: Your landlord or apartment manager should handle any re-pairs or upkeep, which is one less thing on your to-do list. Check your lease to understand your responsibilities versus the apartment manager.
Lower up-front costs: Most rentals

require a security deposit or two months’ rent — first and last — but that’s typically less than a down payment and closing costs on a house.

3. Possible lower monthly costs: Whereas renting can be more costly than purchasing a home in some areas, depending on how you finance your home, renting could save you on private mortgage insurance, property tax and other fees associated with homeownership.

4. Greater flexibility: You won’t have to worry about selling your house if the relocation doesn’t work out. You have the option to break your lease or simply put in a 30-day notice to move out of your rental.

5. Amenities, amenities and more amenities: Many apartment communities offer a luxury living experience with amenities that can suit a busy lifestyle such as on-site fitness centers, swimming pools, washer and dryers with-in the apartment homes and even parcel receiving services. These conveniences definitely a plus, some of which you will not have depending on the home you purchase when you’re ready to buy.

BUYING

The best option to gain equity, invest in your future, & exercise freedom.

Equity opportunity: As your home value increases over the years, you have the potential to make a profit after you sell it. If you’re planning to stay long-term, say 10-30 years, this can mean hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Tax breaks: You could be eligible for

certain tax breaks that allow you to deduct your mortgage interest and real estate taxes, which can save you money on taxes.

1. No Landlords: You have the freedom to make renovations and changes without having to get approval from a landlord. However, check with the Homeowners Association and your neighborhood’s CC&Rs (as applicable) for rules and regulations on how far you can go with exterior changes and modifications.

2. Pride and Freedom: There’s a certain pride that comes with homeownership. If you have children, a home is something you can pass on and have in your family for generations. The freedom of being able to use your home as an investment property in the form of a rental in the future or as a short-term rental opens many possibilities.

3. Fixed Mortgages: In 2017, Sacramento had the highest metropolitan rent increases in the nation, rising on average by more than 8.2%. Since there is no maximum limit for rent increases under California Law, this puts renters in an unsettling position, not knowing what their rents will increase to once their leases expire. As a homeowner, if you opt for a fixed mortgage, your payment will be the same for the entire term, which makes your budget predictable and manageable.

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4 Ways To Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 16:57:37 GMT

4 Ways To Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster

A mortgage can be a truly valuable financial tool because it means you’re adding equity into an asset. At the same time, your mortgage can represent a huge chunk of debt that has a lasting effect on your finances. The main question then becomes, how do I pay off my mortgage faster?

Surprisingly, there are many ways that you can accomplish this. The most common and simplest way to pay off your mortgage faster is to make one extra payment each year or increase the frequency to bi-weekly payments.

According to Traci Ghilardi, a mortgage loan consultant with Delta Lending and one of our Preferred Partners, “paying off that extra amount goes towards your principal and could reduce your 30-year mortgage by approximately six to seven years.”

One of Ghilardi’s favorite ways to pay off your mortgage sooner is by rounding up your payments to the nearest $100. “The extra money paid adds up over time and will reduce your principal balance,” she says. “It is extremely easy to do!”

There are also a couple of different options when it comes to refinancing that can help

you get your mortgage paid off sooner. There are pros and cons to refinancing, but if done right, it could end up saving you thousands on your investment.

If you are currently paying off a 30-year mortgage, try switching to a 15-year term. A shorter-term loan means that your monthly payments will increase, but more of each payment will go towards the principal.

When you refinance with a lower interest rate and keep your monthly payments the same, it means that you’re paying less on interest and more towards the principal. You will see significant savings by combining both refinancing options.

Some mortgages can come with prepayment penalties that are written into their contracts, while other mortgages only allow prepayments at specific times of the year. Remember to ask your lender how you can make additional payments without incurring penalties and fees.

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About our Team

Health Kick, Here We Are! Tips To Stay In Shape During A Move

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 23:46:06 GMT

New home. New job. A whole new area to learn and fall in love with. Relocating comes with plenty of new, which may include recreating your health and fitness routines. Here are our team’s best tips and favorite ways to stay fit.

Sherri’s Faves: Acai Bowls & Morning Walks

“I take morning walks with my dog, Bella and have been eating more vegetables, less carbs and am committed to not eating after 7 p.m.”

TO EAT: Chunky strawberry bowl & pomegranate acai bowls at Jamba Juice, Nugget Market’s acai bowl and the acai, strawberry or coconut cream bowl at Pure Life Juice Bar in Folsom.

Elsa’s Faves: Carb-Light Meals & Hiking

“In my free time I like to hike with my hubby and kiddos. I eat most things, but try not to eat carbs.”

Toni’s Faves: Veggie Juices & Yoga

“I am not a gym person by any means, but I love yoga and morning walks before sunrise. When time permits, I enjoy using my juicer to make homemade veggie and fruit juices. My favorite recipe is my kale, apple and celery juice. I also drink homemade smoothies that I whip up using my Ninja blender!”

Go Green Kale Juice

Ingredients :

5 large kale leaves

2 green or Fuji apples

1 celery stick

Directions: Wash and prepare all produce then push through a juicer. Cut celery

into 1-inch pieces to prevent fibers from being jammed in your juicer. Use organic produce whenever possible. Serve immediately over ice.

Fran’s Faves: Gym Workouts & Daily Swimming

“ I go to the gym six days a week. I like 24 Hour Fitness the best because it’s convenient and has everything I need, including a pool, which I use three days a week.”

Ellie’s Faves: Boxing & Gym Time

“My preferred workout is boxing and I go to the gym four to five times a week. I run occasionally and enjoy walking my dog around the neighborhood.”

CHECK OUT:

9Round Boxing, Crunch Fitness, Orange Theory Fitness, and California Family Fitness

Alyssa’s Faves: Hiking in Nature & Positive Thinking

“I love taking hikes and walks on nature paths in Sacramento along the river and when I travel. I start my morning with daily vitamins along with a great collagen powder I mix in with my coffee. I am always looking for ways to make the things I am baking or cooking healthier. Some of my favorites lately are using the new air fryer instead of actually frying food and also making smoothies at home with whatever fresh fruit/veggies I could find at the farmers market. Each morning before I get ready, I remind myself why that day is going to be awesome. I find that starting my mindset on a positive note leads to a more productive, happy day. I am not much of a morning person...so doing this really helps me get into the right perspective.”

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About our Team

5 Must Have Smart Devices For Your Home

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 23:13:10 GMT

Homeowners are taking their homes into the 21st century with “smart home” technology. Here are a few products that can make your home smarter, safer and more efficient.

Ring Doorbell

A motion-activated video doorbell system with an app that enables you to see and even speak to visitors at your door from anywhere. Also available for use within your home, for security. Cost: $99 - $249.

Smart Lightbulbs

Dimmable, Wi-Fi-enabled LED light bulbs that allow you to change lighting from anywhere—even while away from home —using an electronic device or smart speakers.

Cost: $10 - $12 per bulb

Smart Speakers

Smart speakers like Google Home or Amazon Echo can use Wi-Fi to sync with your smart electronics, allowing you to use voice commands to lower the lights, turn on the heat or even make your morning cup of coffee.

Cost: $50 - $200

Nest Thermostat

A sleek thermostat you can control from your phone or tablet to adjust your heating and air. This device learns the climate of your home, automatically adjust-ing the temperature when conditions change.

Cost: $170 - $235

TP-LINK Smart Plug

Wi-Fi enabled adapter that you can plug appliances like your coffee maker into, so you can turn them on and off from an app

on your smartphone. Cost: $15 - $17

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About our Team

3 Benefits Of Having A Smart Home And The Devices To Get Started

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 23:08:02 GMT

These gadgets and gizmos might be cool and convenient, but they also provide a few other benefits for your household.

Peace Of Mind

High-tech security systems let you keep an eye on your home whether you’re at the office or on vacation. Control appliances and electronics from your smartphone to make changes at home throughout the day.

Save Money

Forgot to turn off the lights this morning? Smart home devices allow you to switch off the bedside lamp or turn off the AC from your phone, conserving energy and saving you money on bills.

Smart Speakers

Cost: $50 - $200

Boost Your Home’s Value

Smart appliances, wall plugs and light bulbs can instantly boost your homes value and appeal should you look to sell.

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5 Tips to Keep Your WiFi Enabled Smart Home Safe

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 22:57:28 GMT

Here are 5 tips to help keep your WiFi system safe from being hacked! And just in case it does, we have some tips to help you get control back of your smart devices!

Avoid Public WiFi Without Using a Trusted VPN

• Forgot to turn off your lights? If you need to do it through your phone, avoid using that public coffee shop WiFi unless you have a VPN installed.

• Wait until you get to a more secure network, like at the office.

Create sTROng P4ssWOrDs!

• Use at least 12 characters with uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters.

• Things to avoid:

- Family or personal data, like your pet’s name or your last name.

- Sequences of letters or numbers on the keyboard: QWERTY, 12345, etc.

- Phone numbers or Social Security numbers.

- Use a phrase to help you remember your password and add symbols:

Phrase: “ Italy and France are my favorite vacation spots for delicious food. ”

Password: IaF@mfv$fdf2019

(Password is the first letter of each sentence plus the year)

Read All The Product Reviews

Avoid buying from unknown sources. Always purchase from a trusted retailer, and make sure the product has upstanding reviews from users.

Update Regularly

• Update apps as prompted. This updates the firmware which fixes bugs and reduces your risk of being hacked.

Invest in Anti-Virus and/or Malware Solution

• Protects your devices from bugs, scams and viruses. Free ones are available, but it is highly recommended to pay for the extra features on the full versions.

• Full version of MalwareBytes is fairly inexpensive. Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to fully protect you from online attacks.

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5 Essential Packing Tips for Summer Travel

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 21:18:28 GMT

Even if you’re only traveling for a few days, a well-packed suitcase can save you tons of time and stress, both at the airport and at your destination. We’ve assembled the best packing tips for the Summer so that you can travel smart and in style!

1. Keep yourself entertained.

Download eBooks and movies onto your mobile device, tablet or laptop for more room in your carry-on bag. If you are bringing a mobile device, don’t forget to bring a portable charger. These can save the day when power outlets are in short supply. If you can’t live without your device, bring a charger with you.

2. Make smart clothing choices.

Organize your clothing in small rolls and group outfits together by day for ease of access. Remember to bring clothing items that are easy to mix and match. You can always dress up an outfit with shoes and accessories. Be creative with your wardrobe so that you can maximize your space and time.

3. Upgrade your bag.

Swap out the old broken zipper suitcase for a lighter, more modern one. Checking luggage can be a hassle. Try to travel with your carry-on only. Think light and invest in a good bag with built-in organizers and pouches. Fashionable designer leather bags are all the rage right now, but the added weight can cause you to slow down significantly in airport lines.

4. Keep your carbon footprint small.

Traveling can be a hassle, especially for those that are Eco-friendly. Try to bring a recycled paper grocery bag with you to replace the plastic lined hotel trashcans in your room. If you want to avoid using plastic bottles throughout the duration of your trip, invest in an insulated, waterproof drinking thermos. Your drink can stay hot or cold for hours at a time with these portable Eco-friendly bottles.

5. Stay fresh.

We all know how hard it is to feel fresh and clean on a long flight or car ride. You can tackle this feeling with a couple of facial sheet masks or your favorite cleansing cloths. Keep a small pack in your carry-on with Q-tips, mouthwash, tissues, and Chapstick. You can refresh yourself quickly and discretely with these items in the lavatory or at your seat. If you are concerned about keeping your clothing fresh, you can add a few dryer sheets or potpourri satchels inside your bag for a clean, refreshing smell.

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5 Tips to Travel Like a Pro This Summer

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 21:14:08 GMT

Summer has arrived, the weather’s warm and vacation season is in full swing. Chances are you’ll be catching a flight this summer — whether you’re going domestic or international, use these tips for a more enjoyable and efficient flying experience.

1. Use travel apps.

Find cheap flights with these apps: Skiplagged – Shows you hidden-city ticketing options to get you a flight for up to 50% less. Hopper – Predicts upcoming price trends.

2. Contact the airline directly.

Has your flight fare lowered since you booked? Contact the airline — some will give you the difference back in airline credit.

3. Skip the long lines.

Skip long security lines. Apply for TSA Precheck ($85 for five years) to save time and stress. For international travel, apply for Global Entry ($100 for five years) to expedite the customs process.

4. Ask about travel vouchers.

Give up your seat for a travel voucher. If you’re not in a rush to get to your destination and you find yourself on an over-booked flight, let the ticketing counter know. They may offer you travel vouchers for giving up your seat.

5. Lounge in comfort.

Long day of travel ahead? Head to the airport’s website to pre-book an airport lounge pass. Gain access to a quiet space with complimentary refreshments, magazines, WiFi, etc. There is an upfront fee, but it provides a relaxing start to your travels.

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Travel Less Like a Tourist, More Like a Local

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 21:09:33 GMT

It's cool to catch the major tourist spots while you're on vacation but take some time to also do it like a local. Get a more authentic experience and a deeper appreciation for the culture in your destination when you follow these tips.

Learn the customs before you go.

If the place you visit is weird about smiling, you'll want to know that before you start grinning at folks on the street. Or if you are traveling abroad to a country that does not use their left hand at the dinner table, remember to honor the customs of the region that you are traveling to! Respect and safety are number one for you and your family.

Talk to the locals.

Strike up a conversation in a restaurant, pub or coffee shop. Find out their favorite spots and activities and explore! If you are using a taxi or rideshare to get around, ask your driver for their advice and suggestions.

Dress the part.

You don't need to go all out but keep your couture relatively similar to the norm of the city. Many historical landmarks and religious sites have strict dress codes, so make sure you research the rules before you attempt to enter with your fashionable summer attire!

Use a small notebook as your guide.

Write down spots to visit and relevant addresses or directions and check it when necessary. It's way more discreet than a traditional guidebook or map.

Check social media for hot spots.

By searching for your city's tagged locations on Instagram and Facebook, you can find what the expats or local lifestyle bloggers are up to and add it to your itinerary. There are many different travel vloggers on YouTube that have spent time researching safe and fun areas so that you don’t have to.

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5 Popular Kitchen Trends with Great Returns

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:56:51 GMT

In addition to being one of the most popular renovations homeowners complete, the kitchen often nets the highest return on your investment (ROI) relative to other areas in your home. While many homeowners give the kitchen a minor update to keep it modern, others choose a full remodel to improve the style and function of the space, enjoy it more and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

1. Smart technology.

Some of the latest kitchen appliances feature technology that allows you to control the
appliances from your smartphone, save energy and work more efficiently in the kitchen. Imagine a refrigerator that tells you when you’re running out of milk, an oven that preheats on your commute home and a dishwasher that alerts you when there’s a leak. It’s all within reach and can save you time.

2. Open-space concepts.

Consider removing some or all of the upper cabinets and store dishes, food and other items at eye-level. Utilize more eﬃcient storage solutions in the base cabinets and outﬁt tall wall cabinets with pullout storage so you can easily view and access the items you need. For expert advice on designing your next kitchen, reach out to our preferred partners Christine Fife of Christine Fife Interiors .

3. Touch technology.

Activate the faucet with your elbow or the back of your hand when your hands are full or dirty. Touch technology streamlines meal preparation, makes it easier to keep your sink and faucet clean and helps ensure safer food preparation.

4. Comfortable gathering space.

Creating a comfortable seating area encourages family to hang out together while dinner is cooking. Kids can do homework and your friends can socialize during parties.

5. Purposeful lighting.

Take your lighting to the next level by illuminating the interiors or undersides of your cabinets. Cabinet and under cabinet lighting combine function and style to add an element of sophistication to your remodeled kitchen.

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4 Things to Consider Before Renovating Your Kitchen

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:53:22 GMT

The average major kitchen remodel costs $122,991! Here are four things to consider BEFORE you begin your kitchen renovation.

1. Why are you remodeling?

Are you planning too sell soon, or do you simply want to improve the style and function of your kitchen? The answer to this question will help you decide the scope of your project and your overall budget.

2. How long do you plan to live in the home?

If you plan to move within ﬁve years, consider a renovation that will give you the highest return onn investment. If you plan to stay in the home for a decade or longer, consider making long-term functional improvements that ﬁt your style and budget. For expert advice on designing your next kitchen, reach out to our preferred partners Christine Fife of Christine Fife Interiors .

3. Do you have children?

If so, you want to stray away from very light colors and materials that stain easily. Stick with durable, easy-to-clean materials for your renovation.

4. Are you planning to live in the home during the project?

If you’re planning a major renovation, consider arranging accommodation oﬀ-site so you won’t be inconvenienced.

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2 Major Mistakes that Sellers Make When Renovating Their Kitchens

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:53:20 GMT

If you are planning to sell your home, you may be thinking renovating your kitchen will provide a good payoff. This may be true, but not if you make the following two mistakes.

1. Un-leveled Floors

If you decide to upgrade your kitchen by changing the floors to new wood flooring or laminate flooring, but decide not to remove the original floors. Have you ever encountered a three or four-inch difference in height when walking from a living room into a kitchen? This means that there are multiple levels of flooring underneath the floor you’re walking on. It's the easier, and cheaper way to update a floor, but comes off looking like you’re trying to cut corners. The right way is to remove the floor and replace it.

2. Topping Cheap Cabinets with Granite

If you’re renovating an older kitchen that has broken cabinets. If this is what your kitchen has, you don't necessarily need to replace them, but it’s best NOT to spend a few thousand dollars on expensive countertops and place them on outdated, broken cabinets. It can look like you are trying to fool buyers.

If you are going to spend money redoing your kitchen, make sure you’re choosing projects that will give you the most bang for your buck -- without taking shortcuts. A renovated kitchen can totally change the look and feel of your home, and may result in a faster and more lucrative sale. For expert advice on designing your next kitchen, reach out to our preferred partners Christine Fife of Christine Fife Interiors .

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How to Retire Well

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:53:19 GMT

Conventional wisdom suggests we should save about 10 to 12 times our current income; however, many people approach retirement having saved much less. So, how much is enough? The amount of money you should have saved before you retire depends on many personal factors and considerations, including:

Your lifestyle.

If you live well within your means and have prudently saved for retirement, you may not need to adjust your lifestyle much. It is better to have the choice to downsize your lifestyle and spending habits than it is to be forced to due to lack of adequate planning.

Your retirement plans.

Although it’s wise for both you and your spouse/partner to save for retirement, there are other considerations that may impact your total savings target:

At what age do you plan to retire?
If you have a spouse/partner, will you retire at the same time?
Will you receive a pension from your employer?
Do you plan to continue working part time?

Your health.

If you are healthy, and have longevity on your side (e.g., your parents lived past the average life expectancy of 81 years for women and 76 years for men), consider saving more money.

Other income sources.

If you will receive a pension from your employer, Social Security Insurance or dividends from investments, include them in your overall retirement plan.

Financial obligations and expenses.

These may include a mortgage, car payments, credit card debt, health care expenses and financial support for children or grandchildren. Keep in mind that nothing is set in stone and your circumstances may change at anytime. Changes in your health or that of a family member, or changes in your family status, may affect your financial situation. For any circumstance changes that may impact your retirement plans, be sure to connect with a financial advisor who can help you update your plan and stay on track to reach your retirement goals. Our Preferred Financial Planner and advisor is Amanda Johnson with Ameriprise Financial . She can be reached at 916.641.7400 .

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

3 Ways to Get Your Retirement Back on Track

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:53:18 GMT

Although experts suggest people save up to 12 times their current income in order to maintain their lifestyles in retirement, the truth is this number may vary depending on several factors, including the health of the person and their spouse, financial obligations, and more. Here’s how to get your retirement savings back on track if you have fallen behind.

1. Pay yourself first.

The key to building wealth is keeping a portion of what you earn. Many people participate in a 401(k) or other retirement plan offered by their employer. The employer may incentivize participation by matching a portion of the percentage the employee contributes into the account each paycheck. Contributions are taken from pretax earnings, thus reducing your taxable income. Basic employee contributions are capped at $18,500. If you’re over the age of 50, the IRS allows you to catch-up on contributions to your 401(k), increasing the maximum contribution limit to $24,500, an increase of $6,000.

2. Reduce Monthly Expenses

If you haven’t created a budget, now is a great time to start. List all of your income and expenses to determine where you can be more diligent with your target savings goals. Once you have an overview of your finances, look for ways to reduce spending, starting with non-essential spending. Then, create a budget and be sure to follow it. Track your expenses to hold yourself accountable to your budget. Another way to reduce your overall monthly expenses before you retire is to pay off any existing debts, such as a mortgage, car loans, etc. Retiring debt-free will liberate your income for savings or living expenses.

3. Downsize before Retiring

Many retirees choose to downsize after they’ve retired to reduce their living expenses. However, doing so before retirement may increase your cashflow in the short-term, while allowing you to become accustomed to your new space. If moving isn’t possible before retirement, look for ways to reduce your monthly housing costs instead.

If you are self-employed or you wish to save additional money for retirement, contact your financial professional for other retirement options Our Preferred Financial Planner and advisor is Amanda Johnson with Ameriprise Financial . She can be reached at 916.641.7400 .

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About our Team

Here’s How to Get More Out Of Your Retirement

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:53:17 GMT

Should you retire at the earliest age possible? That depends on each person and his or her situation, goals, and finances, but here are a few ways to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to retirement.

1. Consider delaying your Social Security benefit.

Claiming at your full retirement age (70 years old) will ensure you receive your full monthly benefit. Claiming it sooner may reduce the monthly amount.*

2. Become a landlord.

Consider purchasing a rental property or leasing extra space in your home through publicly hosted sites such as Airbnb.com or VRBO.com. These sites provide the necessary infrastructure for you to market your location, collect payment and have renters only when it is convenient for you.

3. Why retire?

More Americans are continuing to work part time or in a consultant capacity after retiring from their full-time careers or businesses. Many people feel their jobs will keep them active and their minds sharp. Continuing to work, either full- or part-time jobs, may allow you to save more of what you earn until you reach a point where you either can’t or don’t wish to work anymore. If you need help making a decision, feel free to reach out to our Preferred Financial Planner and advisor is Amanda Johnson with Ameriprise Financial . She can be reached at 916.641.7400 .

Learn more about our team here.

About our Team

5 Easy Financial Habits to Keep You Debt Free

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 20:28:25 GMT

Reducing debt is the first step to achieving financial freedom. Here are five easy habits that you must develop if you want to stay of debt for good.

1. Be mindful of spending.

Whether you want to lower your debt or pay it off all together, it's crucial to be conscious of what you spend. Track your expenses to help you see where money is going. David Bach , author of the "Finish Rich" books, encourages you to determine your Latte Factor, or how much extra money you spend each day, week and month of unnecessary items such as a cup of coffee, monthly massages, or a fancy wardrobe. Once you get an idea of how much money you're spending, you can create a financial goal and budget to go along with it.

Watch this video with our Preferred Partner Cindi Taylor from Big Valley Mortgage to find out if you really need to get out of debt before you buy a home.

2. Create and stick to a budget.

Create a realistic budget that includes all of your normal expenses. Remember any additional payments you plan to make toward paying down your debt. Some people have a really hard time sticking to a budget. If you are one of those, check out our article on creating an easy budget you can stick to . If that does not work, consider implementing David Bach's automatic savings strategy that he talks about in his books, "Automatic Millionaire" and "Start Late, Finish Rich" .

3. Pay off one debt at a time.

Although you may be in a hurry to pay off your debt, the process takes time. Focus on paying down one debt at a time until it is paid off completely. Not only will this keep you motivated to stay on track, it'll also help you tackle your debt in a sustainable way.

4. Continue building your emergency savings.

While you're paying down your debt, continue to save money in your emergency fund. Make sure the amount you set aside allows you to comfortably stay on track with your total spending. Include it as a line item in your budget so you treat it as another expense to pay.

5. Keep contributing to your retirement.

If money is tight, consider only temporarily reducing your contribution and look for additional ways to make budget cuts. Make it a goal to increase your retirement funding as soon as you're able. Bach suggests dedicating at least 10% of your income for your retirement with the Pay-Yourself-First philosophy.

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About our Team

7 Benefits of Reduced Debt

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 17:24:46 GMT

More than 40% of all Americans have a goal of getting out of debt. Strategically reducing or paying off debt benefits your finances tremendously, but can positively impact other areas of your life as well.

1. Reduce stress.

According to a recent study, more than 85 percent of Americans intermittently feel stressed by their ﬁnances and 30 percent feel stressed constantly, according to CNBC in March 2018. When you make the commitment to pay oﬀ your debt, you’re also making a commitment to your overall health and well-being by minimizing a large cause of your stress.

2. Improve your credit score.

Although credit cards and lines of credit may help establish your score, maintaining low balances positively impacts it overall. Additionally, if you plan to ﬁnance a large purchase, such as a car or home, keeping your outstanding balances low may classify you as a lower credit risk and qualify you for reduced interest rates.

3. Easily pay an unexpected bill.

If your debts are low, you'll be able to save more in an emergency fund to handle financial surprises, such as an unexpected home repair bill.

4. Increase your disposable income.

Many Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck; their hard-earned money is already earmarked to pay oﬀ debts and bills before it’s even deposited in a bank account. However, the less debt you are in, the more disposable income you will have available to enjoy now or save for later.

5. Boost your retirement income.

If you want to maintain your lifestyle long after retirement, the time to save is now. Unfortunately, one of the biggest impediments to building a retirement nest egg is existing debt. The good news is, when you pay down or pay oﬀ your debt, you can choose to contribute additional funds to existing retirement accounts for enjoyment in your golden years. If you're interested in learning some good, practical ways to save for retirement, connect with our Preferred Partner, Amanda Johnson, a Certified Financial Planner with Ameriprise Financial.

6. Model good financial habits for others.

If you want others to cultiate good financial habits, be the example they can follow. People, especially children, mimic the behaviours they see. Explain how to cultivate good financial habits and why it is important to do so. Additionally, provide reaons why it is bests to aboid unnecessar debt.

7. Become more generous.

The less debt we have, the more generous we may feel with our money. Whether it's tithing more, donating to local school or sports programs or giving money to a cause dear to us, we may feel like we can give more.

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About our Team

How to De-Clutter Your Living Spaces

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 21:20:29 GMT

The average person will spend a total of 3,680 hours, or 153 days of their life, searching for misplaced items.* Typically, the only time many of us think about decluttering our homes or spaces is when we’re getting ready to move. Whether you’re moving or just want to save time and space, this easy five-bin approach is a great way to start simplifying your living environment.

Watch the video below to get expert advice to organize your home from our preferred partner, Darria Deatherage from Closet Gallery !

The 5-bin approach

Decluttering the home can be overwhelming. However, applying the five-bin approach to reorganizing and discarding items may help you feel less anxious and more in control of the process.

BIN 1: ITEMS THAT NEED TO BE PUT AWAY.

Place items that belong somewhere else in the home in this bin. Eventually, you’ll put them away; the intention is to put them somewhere while you’re clearing the room.

BIN 2: ITEMS TO BE FIXED.

Place items that you plan to fix or that need to be washed or cleaned in this bin, such as toys, dirty clothes or scuffed shoes.

BIN 3: ITEMS TO DONATE.

Items in this bin are in good condition, but you no longer need or use them.

They can be given to friends or family, sold online or donated to a local charity.

BIN 4: ITEMS TO BE RECYCLED.

This is where you’ll place items made of paper, plastic or glass that you don’t want to keep. Add all empty drink bottles, food containers, and magazines or newspapers.

BIN 5: ITEMS TO DISCARD.

Place expendable items in this bin that you can’t recycle or donate.

What about sentimental items?

Many of us have items we can’t bear to part with because there’s a memory or other sentimental feeling attached. Here are a few tips for handling sentimental items that may start to create clutter.

DECIDE IF IT’S WORTH KEEPING.

If you use or enjoy the item, hang on to it. However, you may not need to retain

every piece of artwork your children created. It can be helpful to ask a relative or friend when deciding which to keep.

CHOOSE A FEW ITEMS THAT REMIND YOU OF A LOVED ONE.

If you’ve inherited many heirlooms, see if other members of your family would like some, too. Donate the rest.

KEEP IN MIND; YOU CAN GET RID OF AN ITEM WITHOUT GETTING RID OF THE MEMORY.

Take a photo of the item to place in a journal or scrapbook and write why it means so much to you.

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About our Team

5 Tips to Prepare for Tax Season

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 20:59:35 GMT

Tax day, April 17, 2018, is just around the corner. For many people, taxes are stressful. Whether you plan to complete them yourself in a weekend or are pulling together information to give to your tax preparer, this article is intended to take some of the stress out of the process.

Here are a few tips to get started.

1. Gather All of the Documents You’ll Need

Before you file your taxes, be sure that you have your W-2s from your employer, 1099 forms from banks, or profit and loss statements from your business. W-2s and 1099s typically arrive

in your mailbox through the month of January. If you receive these items electronically, create a file on your computer or print them out for your paper records. If you haven’t received these forms yet, contact your employers, your bank and any other applicable companies and institutions to find out why.

If you're planning to use any credits, such as a child credit or a school credit, be sure to have the necessary documents for this as well, including any tuition, education or child care expenses paid last year.

Using a bookkeeper certainly helps in being organized for tax time, especially if you are not good at keeping receipts, ledgers, or good records. We recommend local bookkeeper, Denise Johnson for the job. She can be reached at 916-220-9298 and denise4books@gmail.com.

For clever ways to save money while doing filing taxes, we recommend working with a good accountant who is an expert in taxes, write-offs and credits. Contact Khinh Hoang at PSG Certified Public Accountants in Roseville. He can be reached at 916-791-3120 and khinh@psgcpas.com.

2. Download the Latest Catalog of Forms and Publications from IRS.gov or Have Them Mailed to You

Taking the DIY approach to taxes? Be sure to download the most current forms and publications from the IRS. These days, you can do a lot of the work online through software programs or even sites such as CreditKarma.com, which offers a free (truly free) tax filing service on its website.

3. Start Now

Most tax software programs will allow you to input your information early. Start filling in your information now while you wait for all of your documents to come in, so that you’re not rushing to complete it in April. Remember, early bird gets the worm.

4. Keep Social Security Numbers On Hand

If you have dependents, make sure you know their Social Security numbers so that your return isn’t delayed. If you are divorced, decide which parent will claim the children beforehand to prevent an audit or delay. If you're filing as married, you will need your spouse's social security number as well.

5. Check for Special Contributions

You may have until April 17, 2018 to contribute to your traditional and Roth IRA for 2017. Check the IRS website for specific contribution information.

Did you...

Have a major life change in 2017, such as a new mortgage, marriage, divorce or baby? You may need to file a new W-4.
Move? Update your mailing address with your employers, clients and institutions that hold your investments and bank accounts. If the forms have already been sent, contact the companies and ask to change your address.

8 Must-Ask Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 20:59:33 GMT

Thinking of beginning a home renovation project this year? If you’re like many people, you may be deciding whether to do the work yourself or hire a professional. Here are the top 8 questions to ask general contractors before hiring them.

1. How long have you been in business?

How long a contractor has been in busy can help you determine whether you want to work with him or her. Don’t rule out newbies, however. An up and coming contractor may have raving reviews (don’t forget to check them online) and can offer competitive pricing in order to gain your business.

2. Have you worked on projects similar to mine?

Make sure that the contractor that you have in mind has worked on projects similar to the project at hand. You wouldn’t want your home project to be someone’s guinea pig project. Get a few pictures of completed jobs that are similar to what you want your contractor to do. The proof is in the pictures!

Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash

3. Do you have a reference list that you can share with me?

Having a list of past clients that your potential contractor has worked with will also help validate his or her work. Be sure to contact at least three of the references or past clients with jobs similar to yours and ask if they would recommend this contractor.

4. Does your company carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance?

With any home project, you want to make sure that you’re covered in every way possible. When asking this question, don’t just take your contractor’s word for it—ask to see a copy or proof of his or her insurance. Be sure to read it to determine if it suits your needs and will cover you should anything happen during your project.

Photo by jesse orrico on Unsplash

5. Are you bonded?

In addition to being insured, you will want to make sure your contractor is bonded as well. What’s the difference, you may ask? Well, when a contractor is bonded it means he or she has purchased a surety bond. This is a type of insurance policy that protects a property owner. The bond provides a certain amount of liability protection and if the contractor fails to complete a job as required or contracted, the bond can provide compensation to a property owner.

6. Who will supervise the project on-site?

The owner of the company or the first person you speak to regarding your project may not be on site to supervise the job. Be sure you know the contact information and even go so far as to meet with the person who will be supervising your project so that you can get a feel for who will be in your home and getting the job done.

7. Who will be my point of contact for job progress, changes or other issues?

Next, find out who will be your main point of contact for anything that happens during the project. Perhaps your contractor has a customer service team that can help or it could be the contractor. It’s your job to find out who will be managing the project and who can help if a problem arises.

8. What work will your employees do?

Sometimes a contractor will put on a one-man show and will do the job solo. Other times, the contractor will use his or her employees to perform the work involved in completing your project. Find out how many laborers are required to do your job and what exactly each employee will do.

About Our Team

Learn more about our team here.

The Sherri Patterson Team specializes in residential real estate and relocation, with a combined 50+ years of experience serving the Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer and Yolo counties. We work directly with hospitals, physicians and medical professionals. Whether you're looking to buy, sell or relocate to the Greater Sacramento area, we are the premier real estate team of choice. Our office is located at Keller Williams in Folsom, CA.

Organization Tips for Every Room in Your House

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:55:37 GMT

Many people like the idea of living a simpler lifestyle, but are overwhelmed by all of their stuff. In addition to creating more clutter, our ‘stuff’ prevents us from finding what we need when we need it, which adds stress to our days. Here are our top tips to organize the main three rooms in your home.

Watch the video below to get expert advice to organize your home from our preferred partner, Darria Deatherage from Closet Gallery !

Kitchen

The kitchen is the hub of the home, and it tends to collect the most clutter from other parts of the house. Start clearing one area of the kitchen at a time, beginning with storage spaces, including the pantry, cupboards and drawers. In the pantry: Throw away stale or expired items and donate canned goods that you know will go uneaten but are still edible.

• In the cupboards: Remove chipped dishware, as well as utensils, pots, pans and bakeware that are damaged beyond repair.

• Keep the kitchen clutter-free: Put items where they belong and leave a small bin to collect items that don’t belong there.

Living room

Too much clutter makes it difficult to relax. The mantra for this room is, “A place for everything; everything in its place.”

• Create easily-accessible, permanent storage space for items you use most often, such as the remote control.

• Fold throws and place in a decorative basket within reach of the sofa.

• Sort through your electronics to determine what works and if you still use it. Store your frequently used electronics where you tend to use them.

• Recycle back issues of magazines and newspapers you’ve already read. Donate books you don’t want to keep and categorize the others in your library.

Bedrooms

In the bedroom, clutter seems to center around storage areas, such as closets, drawers and nightstands.

Clear out dressers, wardrobes and closets by removing non-seasonal clothing you haven’t worn in more than six months and items that no longer fit. Sell or donate pieces that are still in good condition.

Organize your drawers by function: undergarments, active-wear, t-shirts, etc.

Depending on your bedroom, purchase a hanging storage unit or floor shelf for shoes.

Separate anything that should go to the cleaner or a tailor.

Remove everything from the nightstand and place items that belong elsewhere.

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About our Team

How to Stay Organized and Clutter-Free for Good!

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:50:10 GMT

Looking to simplify and organize your home? Here are several strategies to help you keep your home in tip-top streamlined condition, even when life gets hectic.

Give everything a place. Designate a place for everything you own–from remote controls and keys to phone chargers and paperwork–and purchase storage bins to keep it all contained.

Watch the video below to get expert advice to organize your home from our preferred partner, Darria Deatherage from Closet Gallery !

Do a clutter check each week.

Schedule an hour to sort and organize anything that’s out of place. If your home is large, assign each room a day of the week for 10-15 minutes. Breaking the task down by day and room will make it more manageable, especially if you have a busy schedule.

Create a drop zone.

The kitchen and living room tend to collect things from all over the house, so leave a bin in these rooms to collect items that belong elsewhere. At the end of the week, put things away. If the items in the bin are mostly toys and games, make it your children’s responsibility to put them away.

Rethink your purchases. In order to live a simpler, less-cluttered life, consciously think about what you want versus what you really need. To maintain a constant number of items in your home, commit to donating a similar item each time you purchase a new one. For example, if you purchase a new book, donate one to the library, or if you’d like to purchase a new coat, donate your old one to a local charity.

Organize every few months, especially if you have children.

Kids tend to outgrow clothes, games, toys and other items very quickly, especially babies, toddlers and early school-age children. Sorting through items every few months will ensure that their bedrooms and playroom remain tidy and under control.

Streamline paperwork.

Sign up for paperless billing for all of your monthly bills, credit cards, utilities, etc. If you wish to keep your monthly statements, you can save a digital version to a folder in the cloud, where it’s easy to find later. For paperwork that isn’t digital, review your files annually and shred anything you don’t need anymore. While you may want to hang on to your tax paperwork for several years, items such as trash bills, old bank statements, etc., can often be shredded.

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About our Team

5 Tips for Hiring a Reliable Contractor

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:45:16 GMT

Hiring a contractor can be stressful, especially if you’re planning a major renovation. This is not something you want to do blindly. Read our top five tips to help you hire the right person for your next home project. These tips also apply if you’re hiring a tradesperson or service professional to tackle any project around the home.

1. Get referrals.

Ask your family, friends and neighbors for the names of contractors or trades professionals they’ve used and make a list of companies that serve your area. We work with reputable contractors and other professionals in our local area and our preferred partners are listed here . We also have recommended vendors for nearly every household need. We have tried and tested a vast variety of companies from carpet cleaners to landscapers. Give us a call and we’ll get you in touch with the best of the best in the area!

2. Read Reviews.

Most professional companies have reviews or testimonials listed on their web sites, Google, Angie’s List or on Yelp.com , depending on the type of service provider you’re thinking to hire. In some cases, either because a company is too new to have reviews or if the business is a one-man show, it will be more difficult to dig up testimonials. In either case, take some time to read what the company’s clients and customers are saying about them. Try to aim for companies that have a 4-star or better rating.

Photo by David Siglin on Unsplash

3. Research your options.

Contact your local Better Business Bureau and your state’s consumer protection agency to review the reputation of the companies on your list. Check online consumer review sites. If possible, call previous clients and ask specific questions pertaining to their experience working with the company. Schedule times with the companies to see completed projects so you can get an idea of the level of quality to expect. Also, verify that all companies under consideration are licensed and check for any past judgments against them from prior jobs. In most states, all major remodeling projects must be done by a licensed contractor. Be aware that if you use an unlicensed contractor, you may be responsible for any work that is not to code or injuries your worker incurs on the job.

Photo by Charles Deluvio �� on Unsplash

4. Get in touch.

Once you have a list of companies, call them and ask if they specialize in your type of project. If you’re renovating the kitchen, you’ll want a company that has completed several similar kitchen renovations; they’ll know the applicable regulations and codes that pertain to your project. Ask how many other projects they’re managing at the moment as this may impact when they can begin working on your renovation. This is also the time to give you an estimate with a break down of the costs involved, including materials, labor and expenses.

5. Meet the contractors in person.

Meeting face-to-face not only allows you to ask more questions, it also provides insight into the contractor’s communication style. It can also provide insight into their character and attention to detail in the way they present themselves and their company. Since you’ll be working closely with the contractor and team, you’ll want to make sure you trust them.

About Our Team

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How to Ensure Hiccup-Free Projects with any Contractor

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:26:56 GMT

Whether you’re adding on or completely overhauling a room in your home, you may be thinking of hiring a contractor. Hiring a pro doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are our best tips on handling contractors.

1. Pay Your Contractor in Portions

Do not, do not, do not pay for your project in full before the project begins! Doing so can cost you the project and leaves to incentive for the contractor to get the job done right and on time. Most companies will allow for you to pay a portion of the project’s total cost before the start, a portion during and portion once it’s all complete. If your project is large, you may pay 10 percent upon signing the contract, followed by three milestone payments of 25 percent over the duration of the project. The final 15 percent is often due upon completion of the project. Use the milestone payments as a time to review the project’s status and ensure your expectations and the contract standards are being met.

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash

Tip: If you’re planning to sell soon, avoid unusual colors. Homes painted unusual shades may be appraised lower if they don’t fit in with comparable homes on the market.

2. Discuss Time & Expected Completion Date

If you’d like the work to be done during a particular window of time or have other requests, discuss them with the contractor beforehand. Setting your expectations before any work begins is the best way to prevent misunderstandings in the future.

3. Set Your Expectations from the Start

Understand what the contractor expects from you. For example, do you need to clear the room before work begins? Will you need to board your pet? Get everything in writing: The contract should include a payment schedule, proof of insurance (liability and workers’ compensation), start and completion dates and lien releases from all subcontractors and suppliers, which is obtained by the contractor.

4. Get Everything in Writing

Be sure to get everything in writing, including a detailed description of the project, explaining the materials to be used and what is being subcontracted. Keep in mind, the description will not cover any unexpected work uncovered during the renovation. You will also want to get:

All building permits that will be obtained by the contractor and reassurance that the work will be compliant with current building codes.
A statement of warranties, including what is covered and for how long.
A statement of contractor’s liability and property damage insurance.
Price and terms of payment

About Our Team

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8 Ways to Boost Curb Appeal in the Spring

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 18:20:50 GMT

In many areas, spring is when many homeowners list their homes. If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling this year, before you list, you may wish to boost the curb appeal of the home’s landscaping and exteriors to make it more attractive to potential buyers. For more tips on selling your home, visit our seller’s resource page .

It’s also a great time to spruce up a home’s exterior and landscape, whether your goal is to sell quickly or to simply have the home that is the envy of the neighborhood. Here are eight tips to help you improve the curb appeal of your home, presenting it in its best light.

1. Wash the exterior

Over the years, dirt, grime and cobwebs can collect on your home’s exterior. A pressure washer can remove this buildup and give your home a fresh look that may even add $10,000 to $15,000 to the value of your home, according to Houselogic.com. Also, wash the windows (inside and out) and clean the gutters, downspouts and all doors, including garage doors. If you’re too busy to spruce up your windows, considering hiring a window cleaning company such as Streakless Window & Gutter Cleaning in Sacramento or Bailey Boys Services , who clean just about everything and is based in Roseville, CA.

2. Paint

Paint is a sure-fire way to boost the curb appeal of your home and make it the envy of your neighborhood. Update your home with a coat or two of the same color or choose a new shade. If you’d like to paint it the same color, scrape a small swatch and bring it to the paint store to match it.

Specialized paint stores may retain the name of the color you choose to use again for touch ups. Reach out to our preferred partner, Mark Gallagher of MPG Painting in Sacramento if your project is too big or time-consuming to do yourself. You will want to paint the door as well as the trim and shutters in a shade that complements the rest of your home. Remember to prep the surface area before you start painting to help the paint last longer.

Tip: If you’re planning to sell soon, avoid unusual colors. Homes painted unusual shades may be appraised lower if they don’t fit in with comparable homes on the market.

3. Install vinyl siding

Protect the exterior of your home with vinyl siding. Vinyl and premium vinyl siding are offered in a wide range of colors and are durable and low-maintenance. Premium vinyl lasts longer and may also integrate insulation. To keep it looking like new, clean it with a power washer periodically.

Although vinyl siding tends to be low-maintenance, you may have to replace your siding if you notice moisture or damage from hail, wildlife or extreme weather.

4. Repair or replace the roof

If your roof is in good shape, hire a professional to clean and remove moss and dirt that have built up. However, if your roof is due for a replacement, it may be best to do so before you list it. Our preferred partners Adam Wilfley of Roof Doctors in Fair Oaks and Carlos Galan of Galan Roofing (916-459-5291) can help!

Although the median cost of a new asphalt shingle roof is $7,500, if you install a new one before you list, you may have a return on investment of 109 percent, according to Houselogic.com. If you aren’t planning to sell your home soon, maintaining it may help you avoid expensive repairs in the future.

5. Pay attention to the details

These details include door hardware and handles, light fixtures and house numbers. Polish the hardware or replace it with a style that complements the home, such as oiled bronze for traditional styles and brushed nickel for contemporary styles. Purchase new numbers with the same finish as your hardware or purchase an address plaque to affix to your home or place in your yard.

Update the style of your exterior lighting. If you’re replacing lights, look for ones that have the same mounting system as your current ones. Add more lighting to increase the safety of your entryway by adding an overhead fixture or wall sconces.

6. Nurture your landscape

A well-maintained landscape and lawn add to the home’s appeal, creating colorful dimensions and attractive lines. Mow the lawn regularly, mulch and weed the garden beds and prune any overgrown shrubs. Also, clear away any overgrown vines or invasive weeds that have crept into your landscape.

In addition to mowing the lawn, add seed or sod to any bare spots you see. Add color to your landscape with a few potted plants and flowers. If you have window boxes, be sure to maintain them throughout the growing season.

A few landscape companies that we have used in the Sacramento area are:

Alan Okazaki with Okazaki Designs
Scott Nannini with Environmental Landscape Solutions
Tony Lua with La Colina Landscaping, 530-409-3485

7. Build a fence

A fence not only increases privacy for homeowners, it may add value to your property as long as it fits with the style of the home and neighborhood. A three-foot high and 100-foot long gated picket fence will likely cost between $2,000 and $3,500 on average, according to HouseLogic.com. If you already have a fence, keep it well maintained, and replace any broken gates, latches or planks.

8. Stay on top of maintenance

Performing regular maintenance not only helps prevent costly damage, it can also augment the value of your home. Studies show deferred maintenance may decrease your home’s value by as much as 10 percent, according to HouseLogic.com Tasks such as replacing missing mortar between bricks, resealing cracked asphalt and touching up faded or cracked paint may seem insignificant; however, these small imperfections may stand out to potential buyers and leave a negative impression, especially in competitive markets.

About Our Team

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How to Landscape Your Property to Sell

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 17:14:13 GMT

Did you know that landscaping may reduce the amount of time a home is on the market by as much as 6 weeks! Many potential buyers drive by a property they’re interested in before they arrange to view it with their real estate agent.

If the outside of your home is unkept or neglected, your potential buyers may overlook it, even it’s updated and clean on the inside. Make sure that potential buyers get a great impression of your home by improving and maintaining its curb appeal.

3 Ways to Make Your Landscape Pop

1. Add color. Low-maintenance seasonal plants in brightly colored planters add a pop of color to your landscape and create visual points of interest.

2. Plant colorful flowers. Adding inexpensive annuals, such as pansies and daisies, is an easy way to add splashes of color to your garden beds. Plant flowers in complementary shades or the same color for a high-impact monochrome effect.

3. Frame your entryway. Well-maintained shrubs tie together the look of a yard. When placed on either side of your entryway, they can create a pleasing symmetry that enhances the exterior of the homes. Just be sure to keep them trimmed and well-shaped.

Maintain Your Landscape

Keep your garden beds in top shape. Weeds and dead plants may give buyers the impression that the rest of the home has been neglected. Pull the weeds, and clear away any dead leaves and plants.

Mulch makes the garden look more polished. It also helps the soil conserve moisture and prevents weeds. If you have mulch in your gardens or around your trees, freshen it up with a new layer.

Mow your lawn. A well-manicured lawn makes an immediate positive first impression on potential buyers. Plan to mow your lawn once a week, more often if it grows rapidly.

About Our Team

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5 Go-to Plants to Make Your Garden Pop

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 16:57:27 GMT

Your home garden and front lawn is the heart of your home’s curb appeal. Here are our five go-to plants that will add color, pizzazz and dimension to the exterior of your home.

Rhododendrons

A fairly low-maintenance plant, the rhododendron bush is attractive because of its pretty pink, orange, purple, and white colors. It is also one of the easiest, most rewarding flowering shrubs you’ll find if your garden is sunny to partly shaded.

Hosta

According to Better Homes & Gardens , the hosta plant is one of the most commonly grown shade garden plants. Also called plantain lilies, these plants have a diverse offering of foliage shapes, colors, and sizes. We love the hosta plant because it’s perennial and has a great fragrance.

Lavender

With lavender, you can add a stunning look to your existing borders and hedges. With its beautiful purple color and attractive fragrance, lavender is ideal for floral arrangements, potpourri and even in the kitchen.

Boxwood

If you’re going for a polished look, consider the boxwood. It’s versatile and in the winter the shrub has a rich green color. Boxwood can be used as hedges and even dividers among other flower beds in your garden or lawn.

Hydrangea

Ranging in color from blue, green, pink, purple, white and even red, hydrangea can flourish in the sun or the shade, making it the perfect plant to use to amp up your curb appeal. Since there are so many varieties of hydrangea, do your research to find the perfect one for your home.

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The Benefits of Having Great Credit

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 16:38:35 GMT

Whether you want a loan to make a large purchase or you’re applying for a job, a high credit score may give you an advantage. It not only helps you secure a lower interest rate and save money over the life of your loans, it also demonstrates to lenders and potential employers that you’re financially responsible, and likely responsible in other areas of your life. If you're looking for easy ways to boost your credit, read this article . Financial institutions and employers put their trust in this score and are more inclined to trust you if you’re a low-risk candidate.

1. Lower interest rates on loans and credit cards.

Lenders consider people with great credit a good risk, meaning they’re confident the borrower will pay back the money. If you’re applying for a mortgage, good credit may get you a wider range of mortgage offers. One or two percentage points in interest may save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

2. Leverage to negotiate lower credit card interest rates.

The higher your score, the more bargaining power you may have when negotiating interest rates. Why? Your credit card company does not want to lose your business and they will often lower your finance rate. You need to ask! Additionally, you may be able to cite other offers you’ve received from companies based on your score, which may help you negotiate a better deal and save money.

3. Qualify for lines of credit.

If you need to make a large purchase, such as new appliances or furniture, good credit helps you qualify for a line of credit to buy them.

4. Qualify for higher limits.

With a strong history of repaying your debt on time, banks may be willing to lend you more money and, if asked, will often increase your credit limit.

Photo by George Becker

5. Rental approval.

If you’re renting a home or apartment, a good credit score increases your chances of securing your ideal location. Landlords use credit scores to screen their tenants’ payment history, delinquencies and charge offs. This is also true if you’re renting a vacation home. Many agencies will run a credit check and, if your credit is good, you may be able to negotiate fees and lower rates.

6. Better insurance rates.

A great credit score could lower your auto insurance rate. According to many insurance companies, people with bad credit are more likely to file claims. A good score may lower your premium and lock you into a better rate.

7. Gain employment.

Many employers are checking the credit of their applicants. If you have good credit, you are seen as more responsible than applicants with lower credit scores.

8. Avoid security deposits.

Utilities and cell phone providers often require a security deposit when you sign up for service. With good credit, you may not have to pay a deposit when you sign up for service or, in the case of utilities, transfer to another location.

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5 Easy Ways to Increase Your Credit Score

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 16:24:13 GMT

Great credit opens doors, and not just lower interest rates on loans and credit cards. It also helps consumers qualify for higher credit limits and better insurance rates, may allow them to negotiate lower rates on vacation rentals and avoid having to pay security deposits when they sign up for new cell phone service or utilities. If you want to learn the benefits of having great credit, read this article . Great credit is within reach if you follow these timeless tips.

1. Always pay your bills on time.

This simple act each month will build great financial habits that will pay off over the long run. If you have the habit of forgetting to pay your bills, set a recurring reminder on your phone or calendar to pay them a day or two before they are due. You can also set up bill pay with your bank or auto-pay with each creditor or utility service.

Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash

2. Keep your balances low.

Credit issuers often report your balance to the credit agencies on a certain date, typically the last day of your billing cycle. Consider paying all or part of your bill before the closing date (call your credit issuers to find out the specific date) so the issuer will report a lower or zero balance. Also, ask your issuer if they accept multiple payments during the month to help you maintain a lower balance and still earn rewards.

3. Maintain a credit utilization ratio of less than 30 percent.

Simply put, your balances make up 30 percent of the total amount of credit available to you. If you’d like to increase your credit score faster, lower your credit utilization ratio to less than 10 percent.

4. Tackle your debt.

Start with the highest interest rate card or loan. Once that debt is gone, pay down the balance with the next highest interest rate. Continue the process until you’ve paid off all your existing credit card and loan debt.

5. Avoid using your credit cards to pay for large purchases.

While credit cards make it easy and convenient to buy what you want, the compound interest can add up quickly and work against you if you don’t pay the balance off in a timely manner.

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Boost Your Credit Score Regardless of Age

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 16:12:37 GMT

People are more conscious of their credit scores than ever before. Although more consumers are earning higher credit scores, younger consumers seem to be left in the cold. This blog article explains why younger consumers have lower credit scores and how to improve them. To learn more about the benefit of having great credit, read this article .

The Information Age

It's never been easier to learn more about your credit score and history. As a result, people's scores are higher than ever. Age is an advantage with older Americans having higher credit scores than younger ones. VantageScore, which was created by the credit reporting agencies Experian, TransUnion and Equifax, details this trend. The VantageScore ranges from 300 to 850, with 850 signifying exceptional credit

There are many reasons why older consumers have better credit score averages than younger consumers.

1. A long credit history contributes to a higher score.

While amounts owed and diversity of credit contribute to your credit score, payment history and credit length together make up half of the total credit score. Since younger consumers, especially those under the age of 25, have relatively short credit histories, it can be challenging to achieve stellar credit.

2. Younger consumers may not have a well-rounded mix of credit types.

This includes a mortgage, car loan, credit cards, etc. While they may have student loans and a credit card or two, they may not have had the need to purchase a home or new car as the older generations did at that age.

3. Younger consumers tend to have lower incomes than older consumers.

Since many are at the beginning of their careers, they'll likely earn less than others who are well-advanced into their careers or retired. As a result, they may not qualify for high credit limits, which would lower their debt-utilization ratio. Additionally, it's often challenging, though not impossible, to take control of debt with a low income.

The good news is, over time the score will increase, especially if you utilize these habits:

Keep making payments on time. You'll build habits with each payment you make.
Use credit responsibly. If possible, avoid new inquiries and opening new accounts. If you're rate shopping, do so within a small window so it doesn't raise any flags on your credit.
Avoid carrying high balances on your credit cards. Pay down your debt and keep your balance less than 30 percent of your total available credit.

About Our Team

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Spring Maintenance Checklist

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 23:07:11 GMT

For the inside of your home, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and make sure your batteries are in working order.

4 Ways to Avoid Tax Refund Delays

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 20:53:15 GMT

Expecting a tax refund this year? Here are a few tips to plan ahead to avoid delays.

1. Get Prepared

There's nothing like a setback than not having what you need in order to file your taxes. To prevent having to visit your tax preparer twice, show up ready. Create a file for all of your forms, including W-2s from your employer, 1099 forms from banks, etc. These typically arrive

2. Keep a Copy of Your Previous Year’s Tax Return

Last year's tax return as well as any supporting information for the last three years may be needed to avoid a tax refund delay. Although there may be important changes this year, having information from previous years will make it easier to fill out this year’s taxes, especially if you’re completing them yourself.

3. Choose to E-file Your Taxes

According to the IRS, more than 90 percent of all returns are filed electronically. If you prepare your taxes yourself, consider using the free filing software from the IRS; the software’s ability to check for errors is an added benefit of e-filing versus paper tax returns. If you have your taxes prepared by a professional, ask that they e-file your taxes for you.

Photo by Corinne Kutz on Unsplash

4. Get Your Refund Earlier by Choosing Direct Deposit

Reduce the chances of your refund check getting lost, stolen or declared undeliverable by choosing to have it deposited directly into your bank account. Be sure to check, and double check, your financial institution’s routing number and your account number to ensure you receive it without delay.

What to do if You're a Victim of a Data Breach

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 20:48:20 GMT

Identity theft can happen to anyone. Since more people are going online to shop, bank, file taxes, etc., there’s an increased risk of savvy thieves stealing the personal information of millions of consumers. Even if you’re careful, a thief may be able to attain your information by hacking into the systems of larger businesses, as millions of people learned last year with the Equifax data breach. Cyber breaches increased to 1,093 in 2016, up from 780 in 2015, with most of these breaches impacting medical/health care organizations, education and government/military sectors.

So... what do you do if YOUR information has been stolen?

171 million records.1 According to experts, stolen information can sell for more than $30 per identity on the black market.2 However, in time and frustration alone, it’ll cost a victim much more than that. Stolen information allows thieves to open bank accounts and lines of credit, open new credit cards, get a driver’s license in your name, file taxes to steal your tax refund and more.

1. Check all of your credit reports

As we’ve seen, you may not know you’re the victim of a breach until you hear about it on the news. The first thing you should do if you suspect you’re a victim is to check all of your credit reports—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—by getting a free credit report at annualcreditreport.com . If you’ve already accessed your credit report this year, you may have to pay a fee.

2. Monitor your credit card and bank accounts for unauthorized activity

Although credit card microchips have curtailed counterfeiting, thieves have become focused on opening new accounts with stolen information. More than $16 billion was stolen from 15.4 million American consumers in 2016. Identity thieves have stolen more than $107 billion since 2010. If you learn your information has been compromised, here are some steps to take to regain control of your information. In every situation, you’ll want to continue to check your credit report and report any additional unauthorized activity.

Check your credit cards and bank accounts monthly and review each charge carefully. If you find or suspect you’re a victim of fraudulent activity, put a freeze on your credit file. This makes it more difficult for a thief to use your info to open a new account in your name; however, it won’t prevent them from making charges to your current credit accounts. The freeze lasts until you remove it; however, in Kentucky, Pennsylvania and South Dakota, the freeze lasts seven years.

3. Get new cards & new accounts

If your credit cards have been stolen, Contact your bank or credit card company to cancel your card and get a new one. Review all of your transactions and call the fraud department if you notice fraudulent charges. Update your automatic payments with the new card number as soon as it arrives. If your bank accounts have been compromised, contact your bank to close your account and open a new one. Review your transactions and contact the fraud department to report false charges. Update automatic payments with your new information.

4. Place a fraud alert on your credit file to warn creditors that your identity was stolen

This will prompt them to verify the identity of anyone looking to get credit in your name.

Additionally, file your taxes early to prevent a scammer from filing for you and collecting your refund.

5. Contact the DMV

Contact the DMV if your license has been stolen. The state may then flag the number in case someone tries to use it.

How to Keep Your Information Safe

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 20:39:03 GMT

Our tech gadgets have not only made us more connected than ever before, they've also made it easier to pay bills, manager our finances, purchase items on-the-go and more. Although these little tasks are made easier, doing them online increases the chance that a thief may steal our information without our knowledge.

Prevent tech-savvy thieves from stealing personal information! Here are several strategies to help you protect your information when you go online, whether it’s at home at your computer or while you're out and about with your smartphones or tablets.

Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash

1. Create Strong Passwords

It sounds simple, but a strong password can prevent a thief from getting into your accounts and stealing your information. A string password includes a mix of numbers, symbols, capital and lower case letters, has a minimum of 12 characters and isn't an obvious word found in your name or in the dictionary.

2. Activate the firewall on your computer.

The firewall is the network security system that controls access to the computer. When used with an anti-virus/malware software and anti-spyware, it can protect the information on your computer from becoming compromised.

3. Set your social media profiles to private and review your security settings.

This can help prevent strangers from viewing your photos. Also, be careful about what you post online-- don't post anything with your address or other personal information.

Photo by energepic.com from Pexels

4. Secure your mobile devices.

Only download apps and information from trusted sources. Many people use their phones to take photos, shop, bank, send email and more. Lock your screen to prevent thieves from accessing your information and be mindful of what you download.

5. Keep your systems updated.

Install the latest operating system updates, which may include patches and other solutions for potential security issues.

Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash

6. Use encryption & avoid using unsecured WiFi networks.

Protect personal data from tax returns or financial records by using encryption and only use private networks to conduct financial or corporate transactions.

7. Protect your e-identity.

Be cautious when giving out personal information on the internet. Always use your privacy settings and only make purchases from secure sites.

8. Don't click on links or files form unknown origins.

If you don't know who sent it, don't open it. Additionally, never reply to emails asking to verify your information or confirm your username or password.

How to Protect Your Child's Information

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:50:53 GMT

Let's face it-- it's getting harder and harder to keep our kids from technology. Nowadays, they have more access to web sites and apps than ever before. While our smart technology can keep our children entertained, connected and occupied, thieves may be able to get a hold of your child’s personal information. Unfortunately, you may not become aware of a compromise until they try to find employment, rent an apartment or get a loan for school or a car. Here's how to protect your child's information.

1. Check with each credit bureau to see if they have a credit report

If your child is about to turn 16, you may want to do this, even if you don’t suspect their identity has been stolen. If they have a credit report, request a copy and use the information they provide to remove all fraudulent activity. You may also ask each of the credit reporting companies to do a manual search of the child’s file.

2. Request a credit freeze for your child, if your state allows it

If your child's information has been compromised, go to the websites of each credit bureau for instructions on how to freeze your child's credit.

3. Send letters requesting the companies remove information

This includes all accounts, inquiries and collection notices in your child’s name or information. Be sure to include a copy of the Uniform Minor’s Status Declaration available on the Federal Trade Commission’s website. You should also contact the businesses where the child’s information was used.

4. Educate your children on online safety

Pass on everything you're learning about protecting your information to your children. Our kids soak up a lot of what we show and tell them. Be sure to check in with them regularly to see what apps they are downloading and what web sites they are using. Install parental restrictions on their devices starting at an early age.

5. Limit who has access to your child’s personal information

Read the notices sent from your child’s school pertaining to directories and how your child’s information is used. You have the right, under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), to opt out of sharing your child’s contact and other directory information with third parties.

How to Really Achieve Your Goals This Year

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:46:33 GMT

Whether you're a fan of new year's resolutions or you make it an annual ritual to set goals for the new year, one thing is for sure—wanting to improve in areas of your life is part of being human.

At the end of every year, I take a few days and escape in Lake Tahoe. I rent a lakeside cabin, relax (finally!) and reflect on the past year's experiences and accomplishments. I consider everything that I've learned and that's when I create a vision for where I want to be in the next year, the next three years, ten years down the line, even.

Have you ever wanted to make a big life change, but you didn't go for it because you were afraid?

I can totally relate to this! As a female business owner it was a big and scary leap for me to start the Sherri Patterson Team (almost 20 years ago)! But it has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. I experienced this same fear as a single mother, when I bought my first home.

For many of us, we've lost touch with our dreams. We've either experienced so much disappointment over the years or we're just overwhelmed with the day-to-day demands of getting by that we can't even imagine anything different!

But here's the truth.

You have the power to make significant change in your life. That's the secret to really achieving your goals this year—the realization that YOU HAVE THE POWER to make significant change in your life. You.

One day, you'll wake up and realize there's not enough time left to chase the dreams you've been holding in your heart. You don't want that day to come. So...

What are your goals for the new year and for the rest of your life? I'm not talking about resolutions that will soon be forgotten by Valentines Day, but true goals that you absolutely WILL accomplish this year and the next?

I encourage you take some time (alone, with candles or in a clear space) and write down 5 things you want to achieve this year.

If one of the goals you write down every year is, “buy a home,” I want to help you achieve this dream.

I understand there are many fears or obstacles that prevent people from buying. For some of us it’s money, for others it’s not having the time, maybe you aren’t sure what you want.

Whatever is holding you back, you can overcome it! This year I took a Peak Producers training course and learned that many Fortune 500 companies and successful business owners choose one or two goals to focus on and break them down from there.

I use this goal-setting sheet to help me organize my goals into actionable steps. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD .

If you're looking for a good read that will inspire you to action, check out The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran. It's a New York Times Bestseller that can help you get more done in less time.

Cheers to an amazing new year!

What’s in Store for the Real Estate Market in 2018?

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:38:15 GMT

While it’s impossible to know for sure, experts analyze current trends to predict what may happen.

Home prices and values are expected to rise modestly.

Home prices have been increasing around the country, with cities such as Dallas, Portland and Seattle experiencing the largest year-over-year price gains. In fact, Washington has experienced the fastest rise in housing prices in the United States over the past few years.

Photo by Michael Discenza on Unsplash

While the National Association of Realtors anticipates 2018 home prices will rise by 3.5%, Freddie Mac predicts they’ll increase 4.9%. This percentage may seem modest, but for cities such as Detroit, Las Vegas, Phoenix and San Diego, rising home prices may continue the 2017 trend of creating more pressure in the market. The good news is home values in 28 states have risen to above pre-crisis peaks and are at an all-time high.

Rental prices are no longer increasing at the rate of home prices in most areas. Although the leveling off of rental prices may take some financial pressure off renters, for those thinking of buying, it’s a good time to turn their dream of home-ownership into a reality.

Existing Home Sales Have Leveled Off for Now

Experts predict 2018 will spell more of the same for home sales. Many believe this is due to the increase in interest rates in 2017, which may have reduced the purchasing power of many homebuyers. Home purchases are expected to rise a modest 2.8% (5.8 million) in 2018.

Photo by Annie Gray on Unsplash

However, patience may pay off for potential buyers. While the combination of economic recovery, comparatively low mortgage interest rates and job growth may have brought more interested buyers to the market, inventory has been tight over the last few years. In response, home-building has been up and new homes are expected to hit the market this year, increasing inventory for potential buyers. Many experts are predicting 2019 will be a buyers’ market in many areas.

Will 2018 be a banner year for new homes?

Many experts predict that new home sales will drive the market in 2018. A total of 1.33 million housing starts are expected for 2018, an increase from 1.22 million in 2017. While total home sales are expected to increase over two percent, new home sales are expected to increase 8%, reaching 670,000 sales.

Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash

What about mortgages?

Although mortgage rates may have increased slightly, over the last few years, rates have remained at historically low levels. Freddie Mac, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, predicts an increase in the volume of mortgages, which follows other predictions that signal an increase in home sales.

Freddie Mac predicts a cooling in refinance activity, which is expected to decline to 25 percent. In the past, refinancing has dominated the mortgage market, with borrowers most often refinancing to shorten the term of the loan to pay off the principal faster or to refinance out of an FHA loan and into a conventional loan. With the increase in home sales comes a shift to a purchase-orientated market.

Why Learning About the Real Estate Market Matters

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:28:49 GMT

Even if you’re not currently in the market for a home, keeping up with the real estate market is important as the health of the local market influences the value of your home.

Higher home prices in your local area mean that your home may also be worth more. Since real estate is local and can vary from city to city—even from neighborhood to neighborhood in some cases—the more you know about the market, the better equipped you are to understand the value of your home.

Photo by Alexander Dummer on Unsplash

Make the right decision if you’re thinking about buying or selling later in the year. People move for many reasons; one of the most common is a change in family situation, such as the birth of a child, aging parents moving in or adult children moving out. Staying up-to-date on the local market will help you better understand if it’s the right time to buy or sell. Also, if you find yourself wanting to upsize or downsize sometime in the future, it’ll help you decide whether you should turn your property into a rental.

Get the full economic picture. It’s no secret that real estate plays a key role in the health of the overall economy, but national statistics only give you a portion of the story. While staying up-to-date on national housing statistics is helpful for learning about overall market trends, learning more about the local market will help you understand the economic and market trends we’re experiencing here.

We can tell you if we’re experiencing a buyers’ market or sellers’ market, what local economic trends may impact future housing prices, and how your home compares to similar homes in the area. Give us a call and learn more about our local market.

5 Ways to Spruce Up Your Home for the Holidays

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 18:24:14 GMT

There's no better place to spread holiday cheer than in your own home. Here are five easy (and cheap) ways to spruce up your home for the holidays.

1. Decorate Your Front Door

Welcome your guests (or the Amazon delivery guy) with holiday decor. You can go classic with a wreath, decorated with ornaments and bows, or even trim your door with holiday lights.

2. Use Scented Candles or Holiday Potpourri

Cinnamon, peppermint, sugarplum, or gingerbread. Any of these scents will add Christmassy vibes to your home. If you're a DIY guru, try decorating votives with pine cones or leaves. A simple scent trick is to add pine cones and a few holiday knick knacks to a large bowl and leave it in the center of your living room table.

3. Decorate the Mantel

If you have a fireplace, your mantel is just begging for some holiday decor. Since you'll most likely be gathering around it during the winter months, it's the perfect place to decorate. Here, you can use a decorated wreath, stockings, and a strip of pine leaves to make it festive.

4. Aim High

Photo by Evelyn on Unsplash

Homes with tall ceilings call for tall trees, especially in the foyer, if your home is large enough. Opt for a full tree, but not too bulky. You want your holiday tree to stand out, but not take up too much space.

5. Coordinate Your Wrapping Paper

Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash

Yes, wrapping paper can be apart of your decor. Pick between three to five wrapping paper rolls that sync with each other and match the color scheme on your tree. What do you do to decorate your home for the holidays? Comment below!

Holiday Travel Tips

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:45:33 GMT

Since many people take time off to visit family and friends in other places, the holidays are the busiest time of year to travel. According to a survey from the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 99 million Americans travel between the days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s.1 It’s also one of the most stressful times to travel, with people reporting it was as taxing as moving. Take the stress out of holiday travel with these tips.

IF YOU’RE FLYING

Photo by Ross Parmly on Unsplash

Do your research. Whether you’re planning weeks in advance or you’re trying to get a last-minute deal, it helps to do your research. Choose flexible travel dates to help you pinpoint the best deal. Also, consider flying into an alternate airport nearby that may not be as busy.

Plan carefully. Flying in the winter may increase the chances of flight delays due to inclement weather. Avoid narrow layover times to reduce the chances of missing connecting flights or choose connections in warmer cities, if possible.

Photo by STIL on Unsplash

Pack light. More airlines are charging to check bags. Save money by packing lighter or sending items ahead to your destination instead of bringing them on the plane. Send gifts to their destination, or if you must bring them with you, don’t wrap them.

Leave early, whether you’re flying or driving. This will allow you the buffer time necessary to deal with traffic jams, parking and security. If you live in an area with a light-rail transit system that stops near the airport, use it to avoid traffic and airport parking.

Stay up-to-date on flight changes. Download your airline’s app to get alerts about gate changes and delays.

STAY HEALTHY WHILE YOU TRAVEL

In addition to being the holiday season, it’s also cold and flu season. Traveling in close proximity to others may increase your chances of getting sick during your vacation. Keep germs and viruses at bay with these tips:

Stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle and fill it at a water fountain once you pass through security, or purchase water from a vendor in the secured area. Since the pressurized cabin of the airplane tends to dry the eyes and nasal passages, increase your water intake to keep germs away. Water may also help prevent blood clots.

Bring your own blanket and pillow. While some airlines still provide these amenities, most do not. Plus, carrying a small, fold-able blanket and a neck pillow will reduce the number of germs you’re exposed to.

Photo by Timothy Eberly on Unsplash

Bring healthy snacks, including nuts, dried fruit and other easily portable food items.

Move around to avoid blood clots. Blood clots are a major concern when flying, especially if you are flying cross-country or overseas. Get up and walk around the cabin, if possible. While seated, tap your feet or do seated calf raises to improve blood circulation.

IF YOU’RE DRIVING

Get your car ready. Take your car in for a tuneup and address any potential issues beforehand. Have the mechanic check fluid levels and check your tires as well.

Photo by Abigail Keenan on Unsplash

Plan your route ahead of time. Whether you’re driving a few hours or a few days, it helps to know the route you’re taking. If you’re taking a long trip, plan where you want to stop for the night and make a reservation at a nearby hotel so you can be sure you’ll have somewhere to stay overnight.

Keep roadside assistance information on hand. Having this information readily available will help you think clearly and act quickly in the event of car issues.

Store a cell phone charger in the car. Using your phone to navigate or play music can drain the battery. Keep a charger in the glove compartment or center console to keep it charged in case of an emergency.

Pack a winter safety kit, if you’re traveling through a snowy area. The kit should include an ice scraper, a small snow shovel, tire chains, tow rope, jumper cables, a blanket, flashlights, a first-aid kit and a portable radio.

TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN

Take your time. Give yourself lots of time—whether you’re flying or driving—to check in, get through security, at rest stops, etc., especially if you’re traveling with young children.

Pack small toys. When your child gets fussy or bored, give them a toy to play with.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Pack a change of clothing (or several if you’re traveling with a baby) in case of spills or accidents.

Have a small bag with only diaper-changing items to take with you into the restroom.

Remind your children not to talk to strangers. Keep an eye on them, or take them with you to the restroom.

Where are you planning to travel over the holidays? Comment below.

How to Throw a Holiday Party Without Going Broke

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:11:32 GMT

It’s almost time to celebrate the spirit of the season with parties and get-togethers to

reconnect with our families and friends, especially those who live far away. If you're thinking about throwing the perfect holiday party without breaking the bank, here are several tips to help make the planning process fun, stress-free and budget friendly.

1. Set a Budget
Make a list of potential expenses such as invitations, decorations, entertainment, food and drink. If you’re not sure how much each item will cost, look online for estimated pricing. If you’ve hosted the same or similar party before, review expenses from previous years. Also, programs such as Party Budget Estimator from Evite calculate your costs based on information you type in, the number of guests and the duration of the party.

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

Prioritize where you’d like to spend most of your money. Is the food the most important aspect to you, or is it mood-enhancing items like décor? Our preferred partner, Christine Fife from Christine Fife Interiors may be able to help you decorate your holiday party. Once you estimate how much everything will cost, you can decide how you would like to prioritize your spending if you’re on a tight budget.

Choose a venue. If you plan to host a party at a restaurant or other venue, reserve it as soon as you know the date you want. Many host the party in their homes to save money. If that is your plan, focus the event in the living room, dining room and other common areas, and close the rest of the house to guests.

2. Create a Guest List

Although your budge may indicate the size of your party, there are ways to cut costs so you can entertain more people. Are you planning a sit-down dinner party or something larger? Are you inviting families or only adults? If you’re inviting children, keep their interests and ages in mind as you plan activities. For example, be sure to have entertainment available to them, such as holiday movies in a playroom, holiday-themed games and toys, etc.

Photo by Mira on Unsplash

Send invitations. If you plan to send paper invitations, be sure to send them as soon as possible. Schedules fill up fast over the holiday season, so be sure to invite your guests several weeks in advance of the party.

Save money with email invitations, which are free to send and allow you to easily manage who has responded and who hasn’t. If you use Facebook, create an event page to invite guests and communicate with them before the event. This is especially useful if you’re planning a potluck or are asking guests to bring snacks or beverages; you can ask people to post what they plan to bring, ensuring there’s no overlap.

3. Plan Your Entertainment

Make sure your guests have fun at your party. Use a digital music service such as Pandora to choose holiday-themed playlists, or create a music list with a digital service like Spotify. • I f your guests love singing, buy, rent or borrow a karaoke machine and queue it up with holiday hits. Offer a prize for the best singer to encourage healthy competition.

Encourage your guests to wear festive attire, including holiday sweaters and offer a prize for the best festive outfit.

Have a friend or family member dress as Santa Claus and hand out candy to guests or small toys to their children.

Create goody bags for young children at the party and include candy canes, crayons, holiday-themed coloring pages or books and stickers. This will keep them busy while their parents mingle.

If you want guests to exchange gifts, make it a Secret Santa or White Elephant exchange and give guests a budget to adhere to. For a Secret Santa exchange, pair people up ahead of time, once you know who’s coming to the party. If you plan to host a White Elephant exchange, let your guests know on their invitation so they remember to bring a gift.

4. Plan Your Menu

Whether you’re having your party catered, making everything yourself or having a potluck, it helps to plan your menu.If you’re having the party catered, hire a caterer as soon as possible since the holiday season is the busiest time of year for many. Look online and get recommendations from friends for great caterers in your area. Once you’ve hired one, work with them to create a menu your guests will love that also takes into account any dietary restrictions your guests may have.

If you’re cooking the meal yourself, scour the internet and your favorite cookbooks and magazines for recipes. To save time and avoid stress, make as much of the meal as you

can in advance and freeze it, then choose recipes that have a few of the same ingredients. Or, host a buffet instead of a sit-down meal. People tend to eat less at a buffet and you can make most of the food ahead of time. Another idea is to host a holiday brunch instead of a big dinner. Since breakfast items tend to be cheaper, you’ll cut down on food costs. Additionally, guests may feel more comfortable bringing their families to a brunch setting.

If you’re planning a potluck, supply the main dish and ask your guests to bring their favorite dish to share. Ask them ahead of time what they plan to bring to avoid doubling up on dishes. If they’re not sure, give them a recipe to make or, if they don’t cook, ask them to bring beverages or ice.

Save money on drinks by creating a signature drink to serve, such as eggnog or a seasonal cocktail. Buy non-alcoholic beverages in bulk, such as soft drinks, water or apple cider.

5. Decorate

Holiday decorations don’t have to break the bank. Reuse old decorations to save money or borrow décor from family and friends. If you have children, enlist their help to get creative. Decorate natural items such as pine cones and branches with glitter, help them cut and decorate paper snowflakes or put together popcorn and paper chains. If you prefer to purchase new decorations, discount stores offer a selection of low-cost, festive items. If you tend to host a holiday party every year, be sure to take advantage of post-holiday sales and other deals throughout the year.

Don't forget to take pictures or have a professional photographer such as my favorite local photographers, Rob Miszti or Carrie Ayn Calligan , capture holiday memories for you.

Have fun!

Fall Maintenance Calendar

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 16:50:13 GMT

Fall Maintenance Checklist

Fall is a perfect time to do a few things to make sure you're taking care of your home. Home maintenance is a must for any homeowner, and there are quite a few tasks to be done, especially in the fall season. Download our check list to make sure your home is in tip top shape.

1. Inspect Your Home's Exterior
Take a walk around your property and keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear or damage. Pay close attention to your roof and chimney and for cracks, as you'll want it in its best shape before winter begins. If you're unsure of what to look for when it comes to your roof, contact The Roof Doctors or Carlos Galan Roofing in the Sacramento area to get free inspections and free estimates on any repair needed.

This time of the year, you'll want to clean your gutters, rake leaves, close your windows, store your outdoor furniture and test your snow blower, if you have one.

2. Check Your Detectors
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when you set clocks back in the fall. Replace any batteries. This is also a good time to check your fire extinguisher to make sure it's not expired as well as have your furnace professionally inspected.

3. Dust and Vacuum

Because you'll be spending more time in doors, you want to make sure your home is as dust-free as possible. Dust your blind, vacuum your curtains and change the bedding in all bedrooms, including any guest bedrooms for seasonal decor. Hire a professional closet organizer such as Darria Deatherage, who owns Closet Gallery in El Dorado Hills or an interior designer such as Christine Fife to get your home looking its best.

3 Things You Must Do Before Buying a Home

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 16:37:18 GMT

Buying a home is one of the biggest purchase decisions of your life, especially for first-time home buyers. The process can be complicated by unfamiliar lingo, surprise expenses and multiple offers. To make the buying journey a little less stressful, our team put together 3 tips to help you navigate the process more smoothly and save money.

1. Get Your Financial Picture in Focus

You’ll need to know what monthly payment you will be comfortable with and how much you have for a down payment before you start the home buying process. You may want to meet with a financial planner to help you with a budget that will work for you. Getting pre-approved is one of the best things to do before you get started.

2. Find an Agent You Can Trust

There's something to be said about working with a Realtor or a real estate team that you can trust. You can relax knowing that you have someone on your side that's looking out for your best interest and negotiating on your behalf. Moving to the Sacramento area? Consider working with the Sherri Patterson Team .

3. Determine Exactly What You Want
A home can come in all shapes and sizes, but what does your dream home look like? The more specific you are, the easier your search will be. When you know your budget for your new home, and you've pinpointed the neighborhood you want to live in, you're ready to narrow down your search and view homes that match your interests. Check out our Relocation Guide for a more detailed list of what you should be looking out for when searching for a new home.

These three steps will smooth out the buying process. Use our Buyer's Checklist to make sure all of your bases are covered and check out our Buyer's Resources Page for more tips to add ease to your next home purchase .

12 Relocation Tips to Simplify Your Next Move

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 16:21:17 GMT

Whether you're relocating to the Sacramento area or to another hot market in the states, your moving doesn't necessarily have to be stressful. Here are our best relocation tips to get you on your way without the hassle.

1. Do Your Research

There's nothing worse than making plans to move to a place with certain expectations and being disappointed once everything is set in stone. The best way to combat disappointment is by doing your research before you make a move. While conducting your research of any new area, determine exactly what you are looking for in a neighborhood. Make a list of your priorities such as schools, recreation, safety, cost of living and especially take a look at the job market. Once you have a pretty good idea of what you're looking for, you can narrow down your search to house type, size and amenities. Working with relocation experts such as The Sherri Patterson Team, will help you make big decisions and get you closer to what you really want.

2. Find The Neighborhood that Suits You & Your Family Best
The best way to determine if a neighborhood is right for you is by visiting it and staying there for a few days, if not more. There's only so much you can tell by doing online research—you have to get a feel for your new home in person. Take into consideration the types of restaurants, traffic load, how long a commute you'll be making each day to and from work and if its a nice place to raise a family or have pets. Are the people in this community those with whom you'd like to live with?

3. Survey Your Friends & Family
Sometimes, the best way to find out if an area will work out for you is by asking your friends and family. They know you best and can help you choose an area that works for your personality and lifestyle habits. Also, if your move includes your family, you need to ask your spouse and children how they feel about moving to this new area. Making sure you address the needs and feelings of your family members first, before making any move, will help your transition be free of bumps and emotional hiccups in the future.

4. Secure Employment Before You Make a Move

Moving to a new area without securing your place of employment can be risky and unstable, especially if you are unsure of how you'll fit in to that particular job market. Are your skills, service, profession or business needed in the area you're prospecting? If not, better start looking in an area that will guarantee the best scenario for your career. If working with a recruiter or human resources personnel, be sure to get your offer letter, before making an offer on a home or signing a lease.

5. Check the Crime Statistics and List of Registered Offenders

You want to make sure your new home is safe and sound, especially if you're moving your children with you. Check the crime rates and local registry for sex offenders to ensure your new home meets the needs of your family and your peace of mind.

6. Consider Demographics

Another good way to find out if an area will work for you is by taking a look at the most recent census or gathering demographic data from sites such as Areavibes.com . Does the neighborhood you're considering fit what you're looking for? What's the age, occupation, median income, and number of homes with children of this neighborhood? Will you fit in and be happy here?

7. Determine the Type of Home You're Looking For

There's no better way to get what you want than by knowing exactly what you want. When it comes to your new home, how big or small do you want it to be? What are your priorities? Are you going for a newly-built home in a younger community or are you searching for a fixer-upper that you plan to renovate along the years? Consider things such as a home's lot size, whether it has a pool, garage size, and yard. You can conduct your first search online , and let your agent know once you've narrowed your search.

8. Make a Top 3 List of Favorite Homes

Now that you've narrowed your search for your new home, it's time to make your list even smaller. Show your top favorite homes to your spouse or anyone moving with you and bring that list down to the three best homes you want to take a look at once you're in the area. Consider your priorities, your must-haves and deal breakers.

9. Make an Appointment to Tour the Area

If you're working with a Realtor or relocation specialists such as The Sherri Patterson team, make an appointment to tour the area you're thinking to move to. Your real estate agent should be an area expert, preferably having lived in the area for at least 10 years. Have them show you around the town so you can get a feel of your prospective new home.

10. Get Pre-Approved for Your Mortgage Loan

If you're planning to purchase a home in the area, it's best to get pre-qualified and pre-approved for a loan before looking at homes. This way, you know exactly what price range of homes you can afford and can come with an offer that's likely to be accepted once that time comes. Find a lender who will work with your particular circumstance or one whose expertise is in relocation. If you're looking to relocate to Sacramento, consider our preferred partners, Christopher Long at Sierra Pacific Mortgage or Cindi Taylor with Big Valley Mortgage .

11. Make an Offer

Once you've walked through your top three homes, discussed the price with your significant others and Realtor, it's time to make an offer. Get this offer in writing and discuss any contingencies you may have. Talk over with your Realtor how to make an offer the seller won't refuse in any market.

12. Make the Move

After handing all of the importance business such as paperwork, securing your loan, getting your home in escrow, etc., plan to make the move. If moving across country, you may want to look into hiring a professional moving company such as UNITS in Sacramento that specializes in big moves. Download our Moving Checklist to make sure you don't miss a thing. Be thinking of storage, what to keep and what to get rid of and if you'll be hiring an interior designer such as our preferred partner, Christine Fife , for your new place.

Sure, relocating to a new area can be time consuming and stressful, but not if you're prepared and know what to do. What's the most helpful tip in this article? Comment below and let us know!

The Benefits of Getting Pre-Qualified

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 19:51:01 GMT

Before you start looking for a home, you should get pre-qualified for a mortgage loan. Getting pre-qualified is one of the most important first steps to take in the mortgage process. When done, a lender can give you an idea of the mortgage amount for which you qualify. Here are four benefits of getting pre-qualified.

1. Shows You're A Serious Buyer

Getting pre-qualified first, shows your Realtor that you're a ready buyer, not just perusing properties and window-shopping. This is important because when your real estate agent knows that you're ready to take action she can begin prioritizing and setting things up just for you. She will move a lot quicker for you. The process is a simple one; you provide information on your credit, income, assets and debt and your lender will let you know the approximate loan amount you can expect. If you really want to get specific, go beyond pre-qualification and get pre-approved for a loan. Consult with our preferred partners, Christopher Long of Sierra Pacific Mortgage or Cindi Taylor with Big Valley Mortgage if you want to get started.

2. Saves You Time

When you know the loan amount you're approved for, this will save you tons of time in looking at homes within your price range. When pre-qualified, you can fine tune your search and find the best property that's within your budget. Plus, when you're pre-qualified, you won't get disappointed looking at homes that you know you won't end up buying.

3. Make Same-Day Offers

In some markets, inventory can be quite low and speed is the name of the game. Not that you want to rush into purchasing a home, but when you find one that you're absolutely in love with, you want to be able to snatch it up before anyone else does. Being pre-qualified means you can make a same-day offer and move forward with the loan process.

4. You Look More Attractive to Sellers

Oftentimes, you'll be competing with other buyers on the same home. Which offer is more appealing? The one that cannot be backed up by a lender or one that has? Make yourself look good in front of the seller, who can expect far less delays with you, a prepared buyer. Sellers are likely to prefer your offer over a buyer who is not pre-qualified, which gives you power.

What to Expect When Selling Your Home

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 19:46:34 GMT

Once you decide it’s the right time to sell your home, find a real estate agent to represent your needs such as The Sherri Patterson Team. Arrange to meet with your Realtor to discuss preparing your home for sale. Discuss your expectations, price, how your home will me marketed and the timeline to list your home for sale.

Once your home is on the market and an offer is made, you can accept the offer, counter it or reject it. Here’s what to expect when you sell your home.

1. You May Need to Make Repairs

If your buyer has contingencies or if you promised to make any repairs on the home, you are expected to hire professionals to handle these jobs before closing your home. Use our Preferred Vendor Directory to find licensed plumbers, painters, and even home inspectors to make this portion of the sell easier for you.

2. A Quick Sell

In many markets, homes are being sold within the first week. However, it is very important to review your home evaluation with your Realtor prior to listing to make sure your home is priced correctly for the current market. Check out our Pricing Your Home to Sell resource for tips on setting a reasonable price for your home. If your home sells quickly, you must be ready to move. Have your boxes packed and contact companies such as UNITS in Sacramento for all of your labor and moving needs.

3. Low Offers

Even in competitive markets, there will be some buyers who simply want an unbelievably good deal—at your expense. Just because you get a few low offers, doesn’t mean you have to accept them. Don’t get discouraged if an offer comes in low; you may need to adjust the price, which is fine if you determined a price range that you’re comfortable with in the beginning.

4. Final Closing Costs

Though the buyer typically takes on most of this load, the seller is still expected to pay a portion of the closing costs. Closing costs can be negotiated but usually the seller pays for title, escrow, transfer tax on the sale of the home, private tax (if applicable), HOA doc prep and transfer fee (if any) and home warranty.

5. Last Minute Drama

Don’t overlook the last-minute hiccups that can go wrong or slow down your process. Make sure your Realtor is experienced and has a proven-track record of helping homeowners sell their homes with little or no problems. Drama can come in the form of an over-demanding buyer, a loan not going through or things on your part—such as repairs that have taken longer than anticipated. Do your best to foresee issues before they become too big to bear.

Sacramento Fun Facts

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 19:35:13 GMT

Test your knowledge of Sacramento. Here are a few fun facts, including some things you may not have known about Sactown.

A TOP PLACE TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE

Forbes rated Sacramento as the 11th best place to invest in housing (2017).

CITY OF TREES

Sacramento is second only to Paris, France, in number of trees per capita in the world.

NICKNAMES

People love to give Sacramento nicknames. It is affectionately called "The City of Trees" and "The River City." Natives usually refer to it as "Sactown."

HAUNTED CITY

Sacramento is one America's "haunted" cities. Some of the famously haunted locations include the Governor's Mansion and the California State Library.

2 CITIES IN ONE

Sacramento features an extensive network of tunnels beneath the city's foundations, built during the raising of the city to avoid flooding.

BLUE DIAMOND

Sacramento has more almonds than anyone else in the world. Blue Diamond has its headquarters here, bringing in millions of pounds of almonds to the market each year.

THE REST IS HISTORY

Sacramento is California's sixth capital since 1854. Other capitals include Monterey, Vallejo, Benicia and San Jose.

Sacramento was the birthplace of the Pony Express, the 1,980-mile mail delivery service that began in 1860. It traveled from Sacramento to St. Joseph, Missouri.

The Sacramento Zoo is a historical treasure that's been around since 1927.

Sacramento's Best Hiking Trails

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 19:10:07 GMT

When you think of Sacramento, what most likely comes to mind is that it's the state capitol, the largest preserved Gold Rush town or that it has plenty of trees. What you may overlook, however is its gorgeous hiking trails sprawled across the city. Here's our list of Sacramento's best hiking and biking trails. After conquering our favorites, check out Trail Link's extensive list of trails online.

COSUMNES RIVER PRESERVE

13501 FRANKLIN BLVD. GALT, CA 95632

The preserve, located along the Cosumnes River, has more than 11 miles of hiking trails. The riparian habitat has more than 250 types of birds, 40+ species of fish and many four-legged creatures. The one-mile Lost Slough Wetlands Walk allows you to get up close and personal with birds and amphibians along the marsh and wetlands. There are also a number of other trails available for hikers of every level of experience.

(916) 684-2816 | cosumnes.org

JEDEDIAH SMITH MEMORIAL TRAIL DISCOVERY PARK

1000 GARDEN HWY SACRAMENTO, CA 95833

Another easy, paved trail is the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail that runs along the American River Parkway. It is accessible from many county regional parks, including Discovery Park, Paradise Beach, Rossmoor Bar and William B. Pond and at several in Folsom as well. Jedediah Smith is a very popular trail for hikers, walkers, bicyclists and runners. Horses are also allowed on the path in certain areas.

(916) 875-7275 | cityofsacramento.org

SOUTH FORK AMERICAN RIVER TRAIL

780 SALMON FALLS RD. EL DORADO HILLS, CA 95762

The South Fork American River Trail has numerous paths for hiking, biking and horseback riding along 25 miles of trails. With varying degrees of difficulty and inclines, this hike’s scenery includes river views, chaparral canyons and rolling.

(530) 621-1224 | arconservancy.org

JOHNNY CASH ART TRAIL

50 NATOMA ST FOLSOM, CA 95630

Folsom Lake provides 34 miles of biking trails for cyclists within their city, including a number of options around picturesque Folsom Lake. The Johnny Cash Art Trail hosts cycling events on its grounds and you can even gear up with Johnny Cash cycling clothes if you want to go in style.

(916) 355-7304 | folsomcasharttrail.com

AUBURN STATE RECREATIONAL AREA (ASRA) AUBURN DAM

501 EL DORADO ST. AUBURN, CA 95603

This three-mile trail, which scopes from the recreation area to the American River at the base of the Auburn Dam is a steep paved trail that typically takes a few hours. To get to the trail, enter through gate 142 at the ASRA.

(530) 885-4527 | parks.ca.gov

DISCOVERY PARK

1000 GARDEN HWY SACRAMENTO, CA 95833

A 302-acre park, Discovery features a 32-mile bike trail, ball fields, picnic sites, fishing and boat launches.

(916) 875-7275 | cityofsacramento.org

7 Things to do in Sacramento With Your Family

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 18:44:48 GMT

Sacramento is a family-fun hub full of gathering places, museums and plenty to do. Check out our top places to spend time with your family in Sacramento.

CALIFORNIA RAILROAD MUSEUM

125 I St. Sacramento, CA 95814

Located in Old Sacramento, the California State Railroad Museum is home to the Polar Express along with 21 other restored railroad cars dating back to the 1800s.

californiarailroad.museum

FUNDERLAND AMUSEMENT PARK

1350 17th Ave. Sacramento, CA 95822

An amusement park made specifically for the little ones, Funderland features nine exciting amusement rides and a concession stand. It’s located in William Land Park next to the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town.

funderlandpark.com

SACRAMENTO ZOO

3930 West Land Park Dr. Sacramento, CA 95822

The Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 140 kinds of native, exotic and endangered animals.

saczoo.org

SACRAMENTO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

2701 Prospect Park Dr. Rancho Cordova, CA 95670

This kiddo museum includes hands-on activities for children using pressurized tubes, artificial currents, balls in chutes to explore gravity, as well as painting and craft art activities.

sackids.org

FOLSOM LAKE

7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd. Folsom, CA 95630

Folsom Lake is a great place for recreation, with areas designated for hiking, camping, and biking. The lake is also commonly used for fishing, boating, water-skiing and even horseback riding.

parks.ca.gov

GOLDEN 1 CENTER

500 David J Stern Walk Sacramento, CA 95814

The Golden 1 Center is an indoor entertainment area and home to the Sacramento Kings. If you’re in the mood for a major concert, show or even Disney on Ice, the Golden 1 Center is the place to go.

golden1center.com

RALEY FIELD

400 Ballpark Dr. West Sacramento, CA 95691

Home to the Sacramento River Cats minor league baseball team, the Raley field is the perfect place to take your family out to the ball game!

sherripatterson-guidere

Incredible National Parks Just a Drive from Sacramento

Spring Market Insights: What Q1 Trends Tell Us About the Sacramento Housing Market in 2026

1. Navigating the New Rate Landscape

2. The Return of a Balanced Market

3. The Generational Equity Handover

4. Luxury is Taking the Lead

5. The Refi & Remodel Wave

6. A Slow Start For Home Sales

The Bottom Line for 2026?

When Do You Need a Permit for Remodeling Your Sacramento Home?

DIY or Call in a Pro?

Projects in Sacramento That *DO* Require a Permit

Projects That Usually *DON’T* Require a Permit

How to Move with Kids: Routines, Packing Hacks, and Goodbyes

Getting Kids to Buy Into the Move

Packing Hacks When You Have Kids

Helping Kids Say Goodbye to School and Friends

Re-Establishing Routines After the Move

Sacramento’s Best Romantic Spots & Experiences

Our Top Romantic Restaurants

The Firehouse Restaurant | Old Sacramento

Grange Restaurant & Bar | Downtown Sacramento

Allora | East Sacramento

Prelude Kitchen & Bar | Downtown Sacramento

7th Street Standard | Midtown Sacramento

Date Ideas to Pair with Dinner

Buying a Multigenerational Home in the Sacramento Area? Here’s What to Look For

Nationally, multigenerational buying is at an all-time high.

If You’re Searching for the Right Multigenerational Home, Look for These Features:

How to Prep Your Sacramento Home to Sell This Spring

Step One: Talk to Your Agent First

Step Two: Worthwhile Repair Projects Before Selling

Step Three: Adjust Your Mindset

Sacramento Area Real Estate Market Trends & Predictions For 2026

A Much-Needed Bounce-Back in Home Sales

Expect More Stability in Home Prices

Mortgage Rates May Ease, but Slowly

Why This Shift Is Happening

What This Means for You—The Sherri Patterson Team’s Take on the Sacramento Market

﻿

Final Thoughts

Gratitude Gathering

Where to Find the Perfect Christmas Tree in Sacramento

New Builds, New Perks: Why It’s a Great Time to Buy New Construction in Sacramento

A Slow New-Build Market

Builders Taking Action

5 Incentives to Look Out For When Browsing New Homes in Sacramento

The Gift That Gives Back: Top Ways to Support Sacramento Businesses This Holiday Season

Small Business Saturday & The Numbers Behind Local Shopping

Tips to Support Local this Holiday Season

Business Spotlights

Some Honorable Mentions:

How to Find a Reliable Moving Company in Sacramento (and Avoid Scams)

First step? Research companies.

Next, get estimates.

Read the contract carefully.

Extra tips to make your move smoother.

12th Annual Harvest Fest

Sacramento’s Best Coffee Shops to Visit This Fall

Why 50% of Homes Are Selling Below Asking—and How Sacramento Sellers Can Avoid It

From Frenzy to “Normal”

Why This Matters If You’re Selling Your House

Tips for Properly Pricing Your Home

1. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

2. Don’t overprice “just to test it.”

3. Consider buyer psychology.

4. Factor in current market conditions.

5. Be flexible.

Best Sacramento Parks for a Fall Picnic

William Land Park

McKinley Park

Tahoe Park

Woodlake Park

River Bend Park

Belle Cooledge Park

East Portal Park

The Hidden Cost of Delaying Home Repairs in Sacramento

What is Deferred Maintenance—and Why Should You Care?

8 Maintenance Tasks That Help Prevent Depreciation

Projects in Sacramento That DO Require a Permit

Projects That Usually DON’T Require a Permit