Look into San Lorenzo as well.

This is a crazy time to be a first time buyer in Oakland! The market, especially in your price range is going nuts! It seems that every buyer is looking in the same neighborhoods you mentioned and all want the same type of move in ready home. Have you thougth about doing a 203k Rehab loan? This loan offers money above the asking price (up to 30k) to allow the buyer to do minor fixes on the property. Some lenders are wary of this loan but if you get a good mortgage broker who knows how to work this loan and get it closed in 30 days it can be great option. It opens you up to look at homes that are in not so perfect condition and you can hire the contractors (that will be paid out of an escrow account) and set the home up specifically to your liking. Allen Moore with Mason McDuffie is the broker I have referred clients to, he is great! You can reach him at 510-385-8111

best of luck to you! Its a jungle out there, but stay focused and be diligent, you will get the house you are meant to have!

Jessica

p.s. outside of Oakland : Castro Valley is nice as are parts of San Leandro (although these areas are seeing in increase in activity right now too!)

What are some good areas outside of Oakland?

Hey there, I have been watching homes in this price range intimately for about the last 6 months and one of the reasons everything is going way over asking is because there is just no inventory. As soon as something comes on in decent condition all of the buyers who lost out on the house down the street are putting in offers. In fact, people are starting to put in offers without even previewing the house! Not my recommendation, but that is what is happening.

Are you willing to look outside of Oakland? If you are able to open up your search a bit I think you will have better luck.

Good luck!

Krista

Well I have seen stuff in my price range and below, but I'm looking for something that is move-in condition.

I just checked the Maxwell Park area and found 2 homes under $200K. Both are 3beds. Would you like me to email the MLS sheets for both homes to you?

Kamal Randhawa
Broker
510-932-1066

Yes I have looked at both Laurel and Adams Point, there isn't much. Looking for a 2 bedroom.

Have you looked in the Laurel district or Adam's Point?

Maxwell Park is decent and may be in your price range. If you like, I can send you some listings in that area via email. Good luck and please feel free to call or email me for any further information.

Kamal Randhawa
Broker
510-932-1066