Home Selling March 16, 2023

Prop 19

Are you aware of the benefits under California Proposition 19?

Eligible homeowners have the ability to:

– Move anywhere in the state

– Purchase a more expensive home

– Transfer the property’s taxable value up to
three times in a lifetime

Have questions? Let us know how we can help.

We look forward to speaking with you soon!

Debbi, Adam & Chase
DiMaggio Betta Group | 510.414.6777 | 510.414.1250

We look forward to helping you with all of your real estate needs.
DiMaggio Betta Group January 26, 2023

Real Estate Rules + The Art of Real Estate

Colleagues, not competitors. Real (estate) Conversations 2.0 

My grandmother used to say — you get the bee with the honey not the vinegar. 

That lesson transcends into so many aspects in life — from a child on the playground, a youth on the sports field, to an adult in the workplace. 

Buying and selling real estate is a stressful and emotional time for both buyers and sellers, so it’s important for your agent to be a calming force. 

Agents are facilitators and educators. It’s not up to the agent to get emotional or defensive. Realtors provide facts and information, and our opinion when asked. It’s the seller(s) and buyer(s) who have the final say. The deal is NOT Agent vs Agent. The agents are not in a ring duking it out. Buyers and Sellers will come and go as they move in and move away. The deal will end but the agents will continue doing business together well into the years; —10, 20, 30 even 40 years later. 

We are colleagues not competitors.

Adam and I have coached and counseled numerous agents and helped them find their own success over the years. And we’ve always emphasized this Number 1 Rule in our books, on radio interviews and in panel discussions.

panel discussion

Selling real estate is fun. We are fortunate to meet new and interesting people. We work with – for the most part – a passionate group of Realtors who enjoy “playing well with others.”  We even get the opportunity to make a new friend during a transaction. Oftentimes you’ve seen an agent around town but until you were in a transaction together you didn’t really know them. One of our very best friends started out as a Realtor colleague over 15 years ago and has since become part of our family. 

There are many wins in real estate. So enjoy the ride. Realtors usually stay in the business for decades; remember that your behavior and attitude will make a difference; and kindness and gratitude will get you everywhere. Aggressive behavior and pointing fingers at your colleague and your colleague’s client is simply bad behavior. And really, how could that make anyone feel good?

As grandma Stella used to say — “you win the bee with the honey, not the vinegar.”

And as I always say, “Realtors are colleagues not competitors.”  

We are on the same team simply trying to help each client we serve by utilizing effective communication, grace and kindness —with all parties involved. 

coaching real estate agents

This is a lesson that will take you far in life, both personally and professionally. 

Debbi DiMaggio • The DiMaggio Difference

#coach #consult #mentor #realestatestories #realtors #kindness #gratitude #teamplayer #colleagues #notcompetitors #facilitate #educate #communicate #inspire #theartofrealestate #realestaterules #community 

DiMaggio Betta Group January 14, 2023

Real Estate Conversations, New Year 2023

Home, Design, Lifestyle + Favorite Resources

Charity Highlight, January 2023!

With the holidays in the rear view mirror and we turn the corner into the Martin Luther King holiday we have gathered a few of our favorite resources to help you ease into 2023.

Last month we shared our favorite pet + house sitter to offer assistance to those traveling, and a few favorite caterers to help with all those parties. If you weren’t in need then but are looking for that information now and would like us to send you those resources or others simply reach out.

This month we share a few new favorite recommendations and a valentine charity event we’d like to invite you to.

We are always happy to share recommendations and provide referrals. Just let us know what you are seeking.

Clients, friends and colleagues, we look forward to connecting soon.

Happy 2023!

Debbi, Adam and Chase

Debbi, Adam and Chase, the DiMaggio Betta Group

By Appointment Only |

Opportunity Knocks, Duplex | 1729 Pleasant Valley, Oakland, Offered at $1,450,000

lake merrit

Real (Estate) Conversations |

Snippets, Stories, Education, Inspiration, Home, Design, Lifestyle                                                               

35 Craig Avenue, Piedmont, CA | SOLD!

Thank you to Peter Wagener ( First Republic Bank ) who helped the Buyers with their loan, last minute. Since Buyers do shop rates and switch mid deal, Buyers and their Agents MUST alert the Listing Agent ASAP as this is a change in the purchase contract originally agreed upon.

picture and bench

Thank you Peter for closing so quickly!

We appreciate you prompt, accurate, service oriented acumen; just the way agents and clients like it. 

Connect with Peter

entry way, stair banister

Real (Estate) Conversations |

SOLD! Rockridge

329 63rd Street, Oakland

Realtors are often asked how the market is doing.

In December, the market seemed to have softened. We saw signs of this trend on the heels of Memorial Weekend. While some homes sat, others experienced multiple offers.

Does competition breed more offers?

If you ask a Realtor, most will say yes.

When a home is renovated and in beautiful condition, Buyers will compete; whether in a heated Sellers market or today’s market where not all homes are flying off the shelves. If a home is updated and move-in ready, Buyers will, in fact, still compete. Just like our Buyer who beat out multiple offers for 329 63rd Street.

In the 4th Quarter of 2022, this immaculate home, impeccably renovated with an ADU realized a significant jump in the offer price.

Congratulations to Adam who helped our client prevail.

We leave Buyers and Sellers with this message:
No matter current market conditions, a home pretty, prepared and priced right will sell.

garden deck

COMING SOON |

Piedmont, Berkeley and Claremont Pines/Upper Rockridge 

Claremont Pines | Oakland just off of Broadway Terrace | Exquisite Mediterranean on Expansive Corner Lot. Piedmont | Level In, Elegant and Surrounded by Lush Landscaping. Near Top-Rated Schools, Witter Field and Parks

688 Alvarado Road, Berkeley 

claremont resort

Sweeping San Francisco Bay View Mid-Century

Location, style and impeccable design, this elegant Mid-Century boasts sweeping San Francisco Bay views sits on 2.5 lots with air rights and has been tastefully updated while keeping the original architectural design intact. Close to the Claremont Resort and Spa, the Elmwood District shops, cafes, shops and restaurants and just across the street from  the Eucalyptus path.

This 3 en-suite bedroom with home office or guest room has private access from the service funicular. A 500+ bottle capacity, climate-controlled wine cellar completes this level.

The upper level showcases beautiful public rooms ideal for indoor-outdoor entertaining and boasts two exterior terraces. Refinished hardwood floors from the living, dining room, the gourmet kitchen, breakfast room and the upper-level primary en suite. Dramatic living room features an Origami folded ceiling motif, copper accents with up-lighting. The dining room offers the same sparkling views of the Bay with sliding doors leading to the front terrace and a picture window which perfectly frames this magnificent scene. Adjacent to the kitchen with top-of-the-line stainless appliances, quartz & butcher block counters plus ample storage is a cozy sitting area with majestic views. Beautifully landscaped gardens with mature trees, two car garage with storage loft provides ample storage.

Offered at $2,950,000

688 Alvarado.com – Website Coming Soon

Alvarado living room

Monthly Highlights |

Each Month we will Highlight A Few of Our Favorite Places, Resources and Recommendations; we have so many!  Please feel free to email us your favorites so we can feature them here, or on our social media pages.  debbi.DiMaggio@corcoranICON.com

    • Restaurants 
    • Travel Destinations 
    • Spas
    • Day Trips
    • Grocery and Specialty Stores
    • Recipes, Businesses, Hiking Trail and More

woman working out

The Dailey Method Barre + Cycle Fitness |

It’s time to get back on the saddle. What is your workout d’jour? Boxing, walking and riding the Peloton is what we are doing this cycle. Changing up your exercise routine is not only good for us mentally but for our bodies. Have you tried the Dailey Method? It is the fastest way to a strong, lean, sculpted body. The Dailey Method combines the best of Pilates, yoga, and barre fitness training. Classes are an ever-evolving mix of movements that offer benefits for every body. Subscribe to their home office newsletter and get 15% off a digital training program* of your choice, plus early access to motivating thigh-shaking and core strengthening programs.

Connect with The Dailey Method | https://thedaileymethod.com/

 

Tech Consultant | Meet Alfredo

“We are not just an IT Managed Services Provider.”

We are People Focused technology experts that love creating personalized solutions catered to fit your business needs. Leveraging technology to your advantage doesn’t need to be a mystery or big secret. With our Managed Services offering, let our team break down your network and systems infrastructure to identify the areas of strengths and pain points. We’ll find the solution that allows your business to focus on what you do, instead of the tech behind how you do it.

Connect with Alfredo Lopez | alfredo@altitudets.com 

 

Travel Consultant | Sasha Charney

Real Estate always leads to meeting new people and making new friends. 

A few years back I met Sasha at our open house and gave her and her husband a few recommendations for their home. In the fall we finally sat down for coffee at my favorite place, Terrace Cafe. It was so wonderful to learn more about her life and business. Sasha is so low key I had no idea how knowledgeable and connected she is in the travel industry.

We highly recommend you contact Sasha for your next trip or expedition, whether to Europe, Africa or a trip around the world.

My mother, daughter and I had the opportunity to visit London and Paris in November —

Three Generations. Me, B and my 83 year old Mom.

We thank Sasha for her assistance, expertise and connections. 

Enlivened Travel

An Affiliate of Departure Lounge 

SCharney@DepartureLounge.com 

 

Debbi and Bianca in Paris

 

Joyful Chef | Healing Cooking

After 12 years on the commercial side, Sarah has returned to her initial vision, healing through food by becoming a holistic chef. Over the past 3 years, Chef Sarah has fed many busy families, nurtured those with restrictive diets due to varying health conditions and goals, as well as nourishing brand-new mothers and their families. As the seasons’ turn, a level of excitement fuels the perfect meal plan for her clients, grocery shopping makes her feel like a girl in the candy shop and as she cooks up your delicious meals, she knows that she has made your life just a little bit easier. That is personal.

Contact the Joyful Chef

 

A Few Words | From Our Amazing Clients, Jackie and Derek 

living room with high ceilings

“OUTSTANDING SERVICE FROM THE DIMAGGIO and BETTA GROUP!”

We wanted to take a moment and compliment the outstanding service of the DiMaggio and Betta Group! My husband and I have worked with Debbi and Adam before and once again they were outstanding! There are a few things that really stand out when you work with them: ease of the entire process, timely responses, social media presence and anticipating your every need. As we navigated the sale of our Mother’s home, it was not easy by any means. First, we had to clear out the home, and Debbi, Adam and Chase assisted us with finding the help we needed to clear the home. Next, we began staging and preparing the home. Every step of the way they had a contact or vendor to make it easy.

Lastly, the sale, it was executed flawlessly from the open houses to fielding offers. DiMaggio & Betta Group ensured we got the absolute top offer and did not miss any detail during the entire process. Most of all, we appreciate the constant communication, prevalent posts to social media and how they anticipated our every need as the customer. They showed care, empathy and made us feel important as we went through the sale of a treasured family home!

Bravo to Debbi, Adam & Chase… if you wants a first class Agent and a flawless real estate experience they are your team! 

Thanks, Jackie & Derek 

(Adam, Chase and I are honored to have represented Derek and Jackie over the years with 3 separate transactions helping them to achieve their real estate goals.)

 

roses

Unwrap Your Generosity | Eat, Sip, Mingle, Dance | for Good

Hill Branch, Valentine’s Dance, A Benefit for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland @  University Club Level, Memorial Stadium at UC Berkeley from 6-10PM, Saturday, February 11, 2023

Purchase Your Tickets and Bring A Friend Hill Branch

 

laptop, briefcase and a cup of coffee

Resources + Referrals | Realtor Network Connect

If you are seeking a home outside of the East Bay allow us to connect you with one of our Realtor partners so we can be sure that you, your colleagues or loved ones is provided with exceptional service, attention to detail and the utmost care, just as we provide to our own clients.

two men looking at an iPad, one man wearing a white shirt, wearing a stainless steel watch, the other man is wearing a dark suit

Thank you to our partner Realtors for assisting our clients in your area and we thank you for your referrals. We look forward to continued partnerships to best serve the needs of all our clients.

Thank you to our affiliate business partners

  • BNI
  • Haute Residence
  • Luxury Real Estate
  • Giveback Homes

Whatever you are in need of just reach out. Allow the DiMaggio Betta Group to be your number one resource for real estate, referrals and resources. We’ve got you covered.

Wishing you and yours a fantastic 2023!

Debbi, Adam and Chase

In The News December 27, 2022

New Year, New Name, Same Iconic Brand

The new affiliate debuts in six of the region’s most desirable markets, including the greater San Francisco Bay Area.

Corcoran today announced the launch of its newest affiliate, Corcoran Icon Properties. Based in Northern California, the new company comprises 24 offices and over 900 sales associates and staff who were formerly with well-known brands, including Zephyr Real Estate, Terra Firma Global Partners, MikkiMoves Real Estate, Barry Ward Realty, Caldecott Properties, Discovery Bay Properties, Thrive Real Estate, and Highland Partners.

With a footprint that stretches across six markets, including the greater San Francisco Bay Area, Humboldt County, and Calaveras County in California’s Gold Country, sales associates will continue to represent clients in some of the most discerning communities in the region.

Corcoran Icon Properties will be led by CEO Randall Kostick and President Steve Belluomini. Kostick has been in the real estate business for over 35 years, while Belluomini was the former President of Thrive Real Estate.

Rounding out this talented leadership team is Chief Operating Officer, Matt Borland, and Chief Marketing Officer, Melody Foster. Not only will this continuity of leadership benefit the broader team; creating a new entity within the Corcoran affiliate network allows agents to have access to the same tools and services that they’ve relied on, ensuring they don’t miss a beat when servicing their clients.

“I’m thrilled to see Corcoran Icon Properties ushering in a new era for Corcoran in Northern California,” said Pamela Liebman, President and CEO of The Corcoran Group. “With the power of our brand behind them, I’m confident that this team will achieve even greater success in 2023 and beyond.”

“Forming a new Corcoran franchise with our united NorCal group allowed us to oversee our operations at a local level and position the team for a successful future,” added Belluomini. “This is an exciting moment for us, and I’d like to thank a very hard-working group of agents and staff for staying the course and joining us on this new road together.”

DiMaggio Betta Group November 27, 2022

We Are All Created Equal

Real (estate) Conversations 1.5.  We are all created equal. 

hispanic woman holding a baby boy

Who do you see in this photo? 

Hosting an Open House gives a Realtor the opportunity to make a home available to the public  —to buyers, agents, neighbors, passerby’s, interior design enthusiasts, etc. Hosting an Open House also gives an agent a way to meet potential clients. It’s a party, and the Realtor is the host. 

The Saturday after Thanksgiving I was hosting my open house. When I host, I’m a little less intrusive than most agents. It’s just how I personally feel most comfortable. It’s just personal preference and style. When coaching new agents I encourage them to co-host Open Houses with a few different agents to see how each facilitates their “party”. Eventually they’ll find their own style. 

Buyers, agents, neighbors, open house enthusiasts, even young adults come through and with me, everyone gets the same warm greeting. I offer to answer questions and make small talk. Not unlike a cocktail party. I recall over 30 years ago being told this by a local legend I’d known since I was in elementary school. Her advice has stuck with me all these years. 

So, fast forward to Saturday, and not unlike any other Open House I host, I greeted each person, regardless if I thought they were a buyer, seller, or neither. I encouraged questions after their tour and later if I felt they wanted to engage I bit more we conversed. I never want to be overzealous as my goal is for each guest to feel comfortable and at home. 

A gal, her young son and sister walked in and I did as mentioned above. No change in my demeanor or conversation. Actually they were more engaging than most so we chatted a bit more. When they left I went over to say goodbye and that was it. A few moments later the younger gal walked back in and thanked me. I am puzzled. 

She said “thank you for being so kind, many people don’t see us or treat us how you did because of our color.”

I was surprised then hugely saddened. I told her the only thing I noticed was her absolute beauty. And I had actually mentioned it to my friend after you had left. (Selena Gomez came to mind.) 

I ended up giving her a big hug, gave her my card and said to please reach out anytime; I’m here for you. I completely forgot about why I was there. Next my girlfriend, after hugging her too, started asking a few real estate questions. Come to find out they are in the market. But I was so overcome by her history of feeling unseen and overlooked all her years it was all I could do but embrace her. 

After we finished inside I told her that I’d walk out with her and that I wanted to meet her sister. She corrected me, it was her Mom! I, of course, wanted to give her a big hug, too. Sometimes words just don’t communicate what a hug can convey. I surely didn’t think I’d attend my open house and end up moved to tears.

DiMaggio Betta GroupIn The News November 6, 2022

Season Of Giving

During the year our passionate agents give to various causes and organizations.

Take a look at the very detailed list below.

And with the holiday season upon us we are launching and supporting the following:

On Thanksgiving morning join us for the 21st Annual Piedmont Turkey Trot. The run/walk begins at 8:30AM, but come early for cocoa, coffee and other treats. Open to anyone from anywhere and of all ages. Strollers and Dogs Welcome! Register Here

people running a race

Move your feet before you eat.

Corcoran Global Living, Piedmont and Montclair, previously Highland Partners, has been supporting the Alameda Food Bank and Toy Drive since its inception in 2009. Please join us in raising funds for these two wonderful causes. Alameda Food Bank Click To Donate - Toys for Tots Click Here

packing food a the alameda food bank

Season Of Giving. Join Us and Together We Will Support the Alameda County Food Drive for Families In Need

 

toys for tots annual food drive

Join Us to Support Our Annual Toys for Tots Toy Drive - Click To Donate to our Virtual Toy Drive

 

Proud to Support, Year after Year.

Our agents and our staff proudly support these organization: ● Alameda County Community Food Bank ● Alzheimer’s Foundation of America ● American Cancer Society ● American Lung Association ● American Red Cross ● American Red Cross ● Alameda County Blood Bank ● Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators ● Arthritis Foundation Bay Oaks / East Bay ● United Soccer Club ● Beach Elementary School ● Berkeley Public Library Foundation ● Berkeley Rotary Club ● Better Homes and Gardens Mason McDuffie Education Foundation ● Better Homes and Gardens Mason McDuffie Giving Day ● Bishop O’Dowd High School ● Boy Scouts of America ● Boys and Girls Club of Oakland ● Boys and Girls Clubs of America ● Boys’ & Girls’ Towns of Italy ● California Jazz Conservatory ● California Public Interest Research Group ● Cancer League ● Carolina Covenant ● Catherine’s House Catholic Charities ● Chabot Elementary School ● Childhood Leukemia Foundation ● Children’s Support League ● Clausen House ● Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation ● Defenders of Wildlife ● Desert Aids Project ● Dimond Improvement Association E● arthjustice ● East Bay Agency for Children ● East Bay College Fund ● East Bay Network ● East Bay Regional Park District ● East Bay Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ● East Bay United Soccer ● Environmental Defense Fund ● First Tee of the East Bay ● Food for Thought ● Friends of the Berkeley Public Library ● Furever Animal Rescue ● Game Theory Academy ● George Mark Children’s House ● Give Back Homes ● Goodwill Industries ● Habitat for Humanity ● Head Royce Parent Association ● Heifer International ● Hillcrest Elementary School ● Hillcrest Elementary School PTA ● Hopalong & Second Chance Animal Rescue ● Huntington Disease Society of America ● Indians.org ● International Association of Gay Square Dancing Clubs ● Island Cat Resources and Adoption ● John Muir Elementary School ● KPIX Radio ● La Clinica de la Raza ● Lincoln Child Center ● Maddie’s Fund ● Michael’s House Treatment Centers ● Milo Foundation Montclair Elementary School ● Montclair Elementary School PTA ● Montclair Park Oakland CA ● National Audubon Society ● Natural Resources Defense Council ● No Kid Hungry ● Oakland Asian Cultural Center ● Oakland Ballet Company ● Oakland Berkeley Association of Realtors Community Funds ● Oakland Heritage Alliance ● Oakland Museum Women’s Board White Elephant Sale ● Oakland Symphony ● Oakland Technical High School ● Oakland Town Ball ● One Warm Coat ● Oral Lee Foundation ● Orphan Support League ● Piedmont Baseball Foundation ● Piedmont Beautification Foundation ● Piedmont Education Foundation ● Piedmont Harvest Festival ● Piedmont High School ● Piedmont High School Boosters Club ● Piedmont High School Yearbook ● Piedmont Highlanders Football ● Piedmont Highlanders Lacrosse ● Piedmont Middle School ● Piedmont Middle School Boosters Club ● Piedmont Neighbors and Newcomers Club ● Piedmont Recreation Department ● Piedmont Softball Foundation ● Piedmont Turkey Trot ● Presentation High School Salvation Army ● San Francisco Symphony ● Sea Ranch Association ● Sea Ranch Chapel Foundation ● Sierra Club ● Skyline Lacrosse Club ● Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ● Society of St. Vincent De Paul ● Sokka Gakki International ● St Jarlath Catholic School ● St. David’s Food Bank ● St. Theresa School ● Susan B Komen Foundation for Breast Cancer ● Swiss Benevolent Society ● Toys for Tots Foundation ● UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland ● UCSF Medical Center ● University of California College of Engineering ● University of North Carolina ● University San Francisco Alumni Association ● Wellness Center Piedmont Unified School District ● West Coast Dog Rescue ● West Edge Opera ● West Point Inn Association ● Wounded Warriors Project ● WriterCoach Connection Since our founding in 2009, we have built civic engagement into the communities we serve. We take pride in that all of our agents are involved in at least one charitable cause. Each year our agents volunteer or contribute to a local community organization. This involvement strengthens our relationships within the community and provides an awareness of the area which builds our community and enhances each agent. In turn, our representatives are excellent, knowledgeable resources for clients looking to buy or sell property.

DiMaggio Betta GroupNeighborhoods October 4, 2022

Fall Is In The Air

Fall News + A Few Favorites

With fall on the horizon, the holidays are not far behind which means more gatherings and a need for more helping hands. Last month we shared our favorite pet and house sitter to offer assistance to those traveling. This month we share a few recommendations to help out with those upcoming holiday parties and events. We are always happy to share our recommendations and resources. Just let us know what you are seeking.

 

little girl beneath a tree, apples lay on the ground, it looks like fall

 

Clients, friends and colleagues, we look forward to connecting soon.

All our best,
Debbi, Adam & Chase

Realtors for the Generations

Exedra, Piedmont, Blue Vase Architectural Monument

DBG | Piedmont Listing Update

SOLD! 349 Moraga Avenue – Unique, Piedmont Opportunity. 2++1B with hardwood floors, a large bonus room, situated on an expansive lot. Note: This room has been virtually staged. www.349Moraga.com

OPEN SUNDAY! 141 Wildwood Gardens, Piedmont. Elegant, high-tech, level-in, beautifully appointed contemporary located in one of Piedmont’s most desirable neighborhoods. Offered at $3,495,000 www.141WildwoodGardens.com

SOLD! 35 Craig Avenue, Piedmont. Located one block to the center of town and Piedmont’s Top Rated Schools K-12, the Piedmont Park and Mulberry’s Market. Stop by and see us this weekend! Offered at $2,995,000 www.35Craig.com

For Lease Hiller Highlands, 4 Clipper Hill, Oakland

and Coming Soon, 2 Unique and Spectacular Homes, both situated on double lots

Berkeley: 688 Alvarado Road boasts panoramic San Francisco Bay Views while 5708 Glenbrook in Oakland located in the prestigious Claremont Pines neighborhood is an elegant and grand Mediterranean. More Soon!

On to a few of our favorite resources and recommendations – let them know we sent you!

Market Hall Caterers

We recently used Market Hall Catering Service on College Avenue for a small gathering we hosted to welcome our new neighbor to Hiller Highlands. Our guest of honor as well as our guests were very pleased. As the hosts, we were very happy; Market Hall Caterers offer a variety of choices and made the entire process seamless. You can either pick up or have your trays delivered, and the food was fresh and delicious. (510) 250-6001

cheese board

Summer Kitchen + bake shop

Summer Kitchen on College Avenue has gone to great lengths to source the best ingredients by partnering with local organic farms, growers and producers to serve their clientele a menu focused on sustainability and health. Order or Stop In For Lunch. I went for lunch 3 days in a row one week. It’s that good! (510) 981-0538

white cupcakes with pink frosting

The Delicious Dish

Each and every client is unique. The Delicious Dish tailors meals to meet your needs, lifestyle and healthy priorities. After the client completes a brief survey, we will create a month’s worth of sample menus for your review. TheDeliciousDish.Net Contact Amy Fanning

squash soup

The American Cancer Society – Strides Against Breast Cancer

The American Cancer Society started Making Strides Against Breast Cancer to unite communities, companies, and individuals with a collective goal to end breast cancer as we know it. The 2022 Making Strides of the Bay Area will take place Sunday, October 16 at the iconic Crissy Field. Please join us! Donate or Join the Fun

ballet pink peonies, flowers

A Few Kind Words

”ABOVE & BEYOND WITH DEBBI, ADAM AND THEIR WONDERFUL TEAM!”

If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable, and professional expert to help with the sale or purchase of your home, look no further than Debbi DiMaggio Betta and her team at Corcoran. Debbi had our place sold before it even hit the market! She has an extensive network of assistants to help in all areas of pre-sale preparation, her advice is sound, and she always answers questions and calls promptly, knowledgeably and professionally. Debbi works tirelessly to find resolution to any problem that may arise during the process, and she works diligently to ensure that your transaction ends in a win-win situation for all….from getting bids for any repairs, to disclosure of pertinent information, thru signing of all legal contract and escrow documents ….she ensures a positive and pleasant experience for a transaction that can at times be somewhat frustrating! There is no question in my mind that Debbi DiMaggio Betta and her team should be your real estate agent of choice! – Piedmont Seller. Check out a few more testimonials and reviews on our website. Thank you for stopping by.

Let us know if you need a recommendation, or have one to share, simply reach out.

Happy Fall! the DiMaggio + Betta Group

Connect with The DiMaggio Betta Group, A Partner of Corcoran Icon Properties

We look forward to helping you with all of your real estate needs.

Home SellingMarketing A Home September 13, 2022

The Top 5 Scents for Property Viewings

The way a home smells has such a significant influence on a buyer’s first impression of it. That’s why your knowledgeable real estate agent will have a strong reason for wanting your house to smell as wonderful as it can before showings and open houses. Therefore, when presenting your property to potential buyers, it is just as vital to ensure that it does not have an offensive odor as it is to create an atmosphere with a scent that is “subtle but attractive.” After all, you not only want to prevent the humiliation of turning off potential buyers with strong unpleasant scents, but you also want to help them fall in love with your house. To help you do just that, further in this article, you’ll find a list of the best 5 scents for property viewings.

Make sure your home is spotlessly clean!

During the home staging process, real estate agents frequently suggest to their sellers that they utilize scented candles or similar items. However, keep in mind that it is always preferable to get rid of the source of unpleasant odors rather than using candles or scent sticks to cover them up. Instead of trying to hide the house’s flaws, the scent should accentuate its beauty.

 

Woman cleaning window

The harsh reality is that adding smells without thoroughly cleaning your home first can
result in an overpowering combination.

 

Therefore, before any showings, make sure to give the property a thorough cleaning and let it get some fresh air. Make sure to pay special attention to areas that you are aware are contributing to any odor in any way. Carpets, upholstered furniture, pet beds, and comforters are all examples of items that might absorb odors and should be washed or cleaned regularly.

We would also recommend leaving your indoor plants in your home during viewings. Plants help eliminate odors and can only compliment the overall atmosphere in your home. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should stage your home as a jungle. But a couple of plants here and there can really make a difference. After your home is sold, moving plants to a new home can even be done by hiring professionals to transfer them with ease.

Scents that will make potential buyers not want to leave your property viewings

Now that your home is spotless, it’s time to make it smell good. Chances are that, while reading through different buying and selling tips, you’ve come across advice to make your home smell like freshly brewed coffee or freshly baked cookies. However, those aromas can actually work against you despite its association with property viewings.

Strong odors cause purchasers to think about what the aroma is instead of concentrating on the task at hand, in this case, inspecting your home. When using scents for property viewings, the latest thought is to go for a more delicate approach. Clean and fresh is the way to go, but you’ll still need to smell undertones that are easier to digest for the olfactory senses. Here are our top five to choose from.

Flowers in a vase with candle and iPhone on a bedside table next to a bed

Scented candles will be your best friends when staging your property for sale.

#1 Lavender for a relaxing atmosphere

Selling a property may be difficult and even anxiety-inducing for both sellers and buyers. But you can easily use scents to create a more relaxing environment. Lavender is the only one of the best to use as it has been scientifically proven to help with relaxation. Lavender is our top choice because it can help you create a friendly environment for potential buyers. However, it’s also a great general solution for making your home smell wonderful. The aroma exudes serenity, peace, and calmness, all of which are in short supply during open houses and viewings.

#2 Pine to make your home feel fresh

Pine is a scent that very often comes as a surprise to many sellers. This is mostly because the scent of these coniferous trees has been misappropriated in low-quality cleaning products throughout the years. However, if you can find a good pine aroma to fill your property with, you’ll definitely be onto something. According to research, walking through a pine-filled wood can enhance feelings of well-being. If you manage to replicate that atmosphere, you’ll make the viewing day that much better.

#3 Vanilla for the feeling of coziness and comfort

Vanilla has earned a terrible rap in the last few decades. This is mostly because this word was associated with boring, plain, and basic. In reality, vanilla has one of the coziest scents you can find. Vanilla’s pleasant aroma is known to help ease stress and anxiety, creating a relaxing atmosphere that might make your home feel like paradise for anyone looking at numerous properties that day. However, when it comes to vanilla, always keep in mind that less is more. If you use too much, this scent can easily become overpowering and potentially ruin the impression buyers have of your home.

#4 Jasmine for serenity

While you want potential buyers to be enthusiastic about your home, you also want them to remain calm during the viewing. You want them to get a perfect opportunity to absorb all of the details and truly fall in love with your property. This is where jasmine can help a lot. Jasmine is considered one of the most relaxing scents, but it’s still under-appreciated when it comes to property viewings. Give it a try, and we’re absolutely sure your buyers will love it!

#5 Citrus for an energetic feel

If you put yourself in buyers’ shoes, you’ll quickly understand how exhausting house hunting can be. In fact, chances are your home isn’t the first one potential buyers are looking for that day. But if you greet your visitors with citrus fragrances, you’ll give them a surge of energy and optimism. Citruses are also modern, clean, and fresh, making them great scents to use for property viewings.

Platter of fresh fruit

One of the best scents for property viewings is citrus because it will make your home
feel fresh and energized.

Which one of the scents for property viewings will you use?

We hope our list of top five scents for property viewings inspired you to choose the perfect one for you. But remember—the key to a successful home sale lies in reaching out to experienced real estate professionals who can help you market the home in the best way and thus quickly attract the right buyers. Good luck with your home sale!

We look forward to helping you with all of your real estate needs.
DiMaggio Betta GroupIn The News September 9, 2022

And that’s a wrap on summer

Fall 2022 | Featured Homes + Our Favorite Resources, Newsletter and Blog

With Summer In the Rear View Mirror

It’s Time to Welcome Fall

We hope you had a wonderful summer and enjoyed some new experiences. As you gear up for Fall let us know how we might best assist you to accomplish your real estate goals. And we are always happy to share our recommendations and resources. Whether a client, friend or colleague we look forward to connecting soon.

All our best, Debbi, Adam and Chase

Not often does a home come up in Piedmont that is under $1,500,000. We can’t report the sale price yet, but these buyers will be happy once they settle in, do a little work and even expand the home down the road. If I got my hands on it I could make it shine. I do not look at a home the way it is, I see it in my minds eye imagining what I can do it. If you are interested in my vision I am always happy to share my ideas. (There is NO obligation nor any fee for a consult and chat). — Take Note — This living room has been virtually staged. Step Inside

Schedule a Convenient Time to Preview Any of Our Listings or Others

What We Love About Wildwood Gardens 141 Wildwood Gardens, Piedmont – Elegant, Hi Tech, Level In, Beautifully Appointed Contemporary with Glorious, Lush Landscaping Located in One Of Piedmont’s Most Desirable Neighborhoods. Offered at $3,495,000

What We Love About Craig Avenue: Location, Location, Location and…
35 Craig Avenue, Piedmont. Located one block to the center of town and Piedmont’s Top Rated Schools K-12, the Piedmont Park and Mulberry’s Market. Stop by and see us this weekend! Offered at $2,995,000

Hiller Highlands | They Go FAST! Keep in touch if you are ever interested buying or leasing up here on the hill. We love living in Hiller. The views are magical and change color almost every night.

What We Love About Hiller: The Majestic, Magnificent Views
Currently being prepared for market: Hiller Highlands: 1881 Grand View Drive, $5350 Mo (Just Leased) and 4 Clipper Hill $5600 Mon – both with San Francisco Bay Views. Looks like Clipper may be going soon.

Next Up… our favorite resources and recommendations

Each Month we will Highlight One of Our Favorite Places, Resources and Recommendations –We Have So Many!  Please feel free to email us your favorites or your business so we can feature them here, or on our social media pages. Send to Debbi. | Restaurants, Travel Destinations, Spas, Day Trips, Grocery Stores, Recipes, Businesses, Hiking Trails… anything and everything.

Resource Highlight: Home + Pet Sitter
Kitties, Puppies, Dogs, Cats, Fish and Home…
Everyone Needs Someone To Love and Adore Their Pet. Are you seeking someone to take care of, and love your pet the way you do when you are away? We highly recommend our friend Merrit. Merrit will travel locally, nationally even internationally. Be sure to schedule in advance — She’s booking up quickly.  Click Away

Where We Love To Eat!  Bistro Don Giovanni: Pasta, Pesto, Prosciutto, Wood-Fired Pizza, Burrata, Fried Calamari, Tiramisu. Are you inspired, yet?

Bistro Don Giovanni is our favorite go to restaurant anytime of year but this summer it’s been a place of many celebrations from college graduations and saying farewell to our grads plus a few birthday celebrations sprinkled in. But you don’t need an excuse to enjoy – Click and Book​​​ Mangia!

4110 Howard Ln, Napa, CA

Meet Stanly

Stanly Ranch opened April 2022 and is our recent favorite local destination retreat.

Stanly Ranch, Napa’s Newest Luxury Resort is another magnificent property in the Auberge Resorts Collection. We discovered this lovely new property in July and had the opportunity to celebrate my birthday at the spa and poolside with friends.
The resort reminds me of DC Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona, a small community where we had a second home for many years.
Go for the day or overnight. It’s about 50 minutes from the East Bay and just across the highway from the Carneros Resort + Spa, another favorite of ours — Click to Preview – Relax and ENJOY!

Helping others is what feeds our soul. It’s our goal each and every time we partner with a client is to make their transition as smooth as possible. I mean we are all human, so things happen, but we definitely strive to do the very best we can. We thank this wonderful couple for their kind recommendation. It’s hard to believe I have known them since I was probably 5 years old!

“SERVICE FROM DEBBI & ADAM WAS FANTASTIC”

We have known Debbi since she was a little girl and have watched her progress thru the real estate business over the last 30 years. When we called her we expected to get good service but we were honestly wowed by both of them. Debbi, Adam and Chase are professional, knowledgeable but more important than anything, they both had a sense of urgency. And I mean rapid and accurate response. I have a consulting business and try to provide rapid urgent response to my clients. And I got that and more from Debbi and Adam. I would recommend them in a second, no conditions. They are good. And we got what we wanted. Best, Len and Mary Bertain ★ Read Other Testimonials

Realtor Network Connect

Being Sure Our Clients Get the BEST Service No Matter Where They Go

Adam and I refer clients to other passionate and knowledgeable Realtors outside areas we do not specialize in so we can be sure they get the BEST service possible. So if you are seeking a home outside of the East Bay allow us to connect you with one of our Realtor partners so we can be sure you, your friend, colleague or family member is provided with exceptional service, attention to detail and utmost care just, as we provide to our clients. And if you are a REALTOR please reach out so we can discuss the possibility of partnering with you.

★ Let’s Connect ★

510.414.6777 Debbi DiMaggio
510.414.1250 Adam Betta
510.418.3667 Chase DiMaggio Betta
01047447 | 00979841
DiMaggio Betta Group August 15, 2022

Don’t Follow the Pack, Lead the Pack

Sound off with Debbi DiMaggio as seen in SF Gate and the San Francisco Chronicle. (April 17, 2022) Reprint

 

Although our market is a little different today, August 2022 –I still stand by what I share below regarding contingencies.

Q: What are your thoughts on waiving contingencies? – Jordan Guinn, SF Chron

In our fast moving market it is crucial to remove all contingencies along with making your highest and best offer at the get-go. Inventory is at an all time low and there are more Buyers than ever — all highly qualified. (Edit: Although the market has not moved as fast this summer, it is still important to prove to the Seller you will to perform, so do your work ahead of time). I believe we will see more Buyers back in the market after Labor Day, so Buyers should take advantage of the current market. Don’t follow the pack, lead the pack!

Waiving Contingencies:

This does not mean you simply tell your Buyer to write a non-contingent offer without explaining what that means and what the ramifications will be should they not perform.

3 contingencies buyers should waive in order to compete and how to be sure they are in a good position to do so.

1. Loan Contingency: A Buyer should be comfortable enough to remove their loan contingency —if, their lender confirms that they are a strong enough borrower for the price they are offering. It’s Not up to the agent.

2. Appraisal Contingency: a few aspects to consider —The lender will loan up to 80% of the appraised amount. How does the home compare to similar sales and how many offers are being submitted. And speak with their lender to get their opinion on the borrower.

3. Home Inspection Contingency: Typically a full set of  inspections will be provided. Be sure the Buyer reads them and if they have questions obtain your own inspectors or contractors to look at the house before the offer date. Rarely will a Buyer prevail in today’s market with a contingency. As the agent you must be sure your Buyer understands what this all means to them.

 

If you have questions about the market or would like us to assist you with your real estate goals, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Debbi DiMaggio | Debbi.DiMaggio@corcoranGL.com | 510.414.6777

Adam Betta | Adam.Betta@corcoranGL.com | 510.414.1250

Chart your real estate goals with us.