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For more than twenty years I have had the pleasure of working with buyers and sellers in the East Bay - Berkeley and surrounding cities. This business has challenged me to learn more and go deep as a human being. I cannot imagine doing anything else. At the beginning of 2008 I am optimistic and excited by what will be required of me to continue serving clients on the highest level. Check out my blog, it is more of a diary than anything else. I think that helping people understand the market and the economy is a worthy goal. I like Trulia Voices because I learn as much as I can offer to others.
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Looks like either a lender buyback in lieu of foreclosure, or a foreclosure sale. - Sat Nov 15 2008, 17:17
Eric is correct regarding the possibility of Protected Tenant status for the existing tenants. That unit will need to continue at its present rent ceiling (which allows for a minor increase year to year) and concentrate on the other unit - who are the tenants? How long have they been there? Are they protected tenants? (Seniors, disabled, or low income). The possibility there would be to offer the tenant in the other unit a buyout.
Like you, I am frustrated with rent control in Berkeley, mostly because it does not take "need" into consideration. In other words, have a "means test" for protected tenancy. Ask alot of questions about the other tenant. All the best. - Thu Oct 30 2008, 08:57
I believe this home has been thoroughly inspected - you can find out everything you would like to know about this home in the Berkeley Hills by contacting David Hill at the Grubb Company. He is a great agent. All the best, Liz Stevens - Tue Oct 28 2008, 09:22
Hello Sarah, I would expect prices in Northbrae to stay about the same as we see them now, assuming congress passes some sort of "rescue" package in the next week to stop the volatility on the stock market. More inventory always shows up as people's lives change and they sell their homes.
I would suggest that you look regularly in Northbrae so that you become an expert on the choices in architecture, size of structures, and favorite streets while you are watching your stock portfolio recover. Once there is some stability in the economy, get more serious. Best if it is in the rainy season - specifically, January. Look for the best streets and buy the best architecture in the worst shape on the best street. That is my best advice. Northbrae has become a coveted neighborhood. Make a "good buy" - with yo7r choice and negotiations, and you will never regret it. All the best. Liz - Tue Sep 30 2008, 14:22
Brian, Our Berkeley and Albany markets are definitely changing - however, the homes that are presented in top condition at the right price are still selling in multiple offers. Getting financing is harder. Prepare to put 20% plus down on a purchase. I suggest you come back with your wife, do an investigative trip, look at a number of homes in specific neighborhoods so you know what your price range will buy here, and then be patient. Some good homes are staying on the market for reasons of difficulty of showing to buyers, insufficient preparation, lackluster condition, and pricing that is not real time thinking on the part of the owner. Those homes will come down in price over the next six months. Remember, the minute the rains start, all homes look less attractive -- great time for buyers. let me know how I can support your search/inquiry. Liz Stevens - Tue Sep 30 2008, 07:12
I specialize in correct pricing for sellers and strategies for both buyers and sellers that fit the present real estate market, but also are found through counter intuitive thinking. I measure twice and cut once.
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Windermere Real Estate Bay Area
I lead and coach a group of top notch Realtors and Broker Associates in our Berkeley Windermere Real Estate company. We work affiliatively for success of our clients and we care for our community. We believe that diversity is strength.
January 2006—present
Berkeley Association of Realtors - 2007 Realtor of the Year
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