HI Audrey,
Yes, you can. Absolutely. There are many homes coming on the market daily that are bank foreclosures and short sales (owner owes more than the property is worth). IF you are patient and persistant you can find a good home. In Santa Rosa, the County seat, there are many opportunities for home ownership.

Thu Apr 3 2008, 08:50

Audrey,

Congratulations on your decision to move to Sonoma County! It is a great time to buy here. Your request is certainly a feasible one. I have noticed that the homes in this price range that are in great neighborhoods move very quickly, even in days. Your best bet would be to find a Realtor who knows about upcoming listings before they are on the market, giving you a heads up and opportunity to be one of the first ones through the door, therefore able to scoop up a fabulous deal. Any Realtor who actively attends the MLS meetings in the local area should have access to local connections, so you might want to make that a question you ask before deciding with whom you want to work. I have a step by step guide for buyers on my website, here is a link to it that might prove valuable to you. I hope this helps! http://www.prurealty.com/gingercarney/BGArtStepByStepGuide.aspx

Wed Apr 2 2008, 18:50

Hi Audrey,
I also answered your question regarding Oakmont located in Santa Rosa. Adult community, 55 and up. Yes, there are homes available in your price range. Please feel free to email direct. vkatzrealtor@aol.com

Mon Mar 3 2008, 10:38

Audrey,
As an agent who lives in Petaluma, I thought I would offer my 2 cents...
Absolutely! There are a handful of properties currently available that meet your criteria, list price starting at $289,000.
As a Realtor, I can't advise you on crime - but I can point you in a few different areas to research and determine for yourself.
Please feel free to contact me directly as you further consider your move.
Best of luck,
Renee

Sun Feb 17 2008, 10:56

In Sonoma County today there are 17 three bedroom homes on the MLS under $300,000. Some are in areas that are higher crime than others. Three out of the 17 are single story. Two of those are in Cloverdale and one is in southwest Santa Rosa. The lowest price single story, 3 bedroom home in Petaluma is $434,000 for just under 1300 square feet of living space.
I guess the answer to your question is yes to Sonoma County in general and no to Petaluma.

Sat Feb 16 2008, 20:40