Nola Jones

You can obviously bid as low as you wish. However, well priced REOs tend to be sold closer to the asking price even in this market. The ones that don't sell are usually overpriced or have red flags associated with them -- noisy area, poor condition of the house, old house, etc. The houses in Alamo seem to be overpriced even now.

I would most definitely wait for more REOs to come his the market and lower the prices overall.

Alamo and Lamorinda is still too pricey, especially since many people, professionals, are just starting to lose their jobs in those areas. - Sat Jan 10 2009, 10:52

Do not sign any agreements with an agent if you are looking to buy. And if you don't like an agent, get another one.

Also, do your own research. remember, a real estate agent is a sales person who only gets paid if you buy. So a "buyers" agent is NEVER EVER an unbiased person. There is no such thing as an agent who is truly representing your interest because her or his commission DEPENDS on how much you spend on a home.

Good luck! - Wed Dec 31 2008, 14:28

As far as we are concerned, the quality of schools is the same in Danville/Walnut Creek/Lamorinda. We look at factors other than just high test scores to determine whether a particular school district is great. Most of the time, the test scores reflect the socio-economic status of the parents.

The issue that I have with Walnut Creek location is the abundance of hills, lack of sidewalks, and houses with huge lots, which would make it difficult for small children to make friends in the area, ride a bike and such. But it is close to shopping (Neiman Marcus is coming!) and BART.

I do love the look of new houses and high ceilings. Danville has many such McMansions on the market. But it is really far...

Would love to hear from those who grew up in Danville or South Walnut Creek. - Mon Dec 29 2008, 15:04