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Comprehensive Solutions for Seniors: A Team You Can Trust
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Growing Demand:
The number of seniors, especially those aged 80 and over, is projected to increase dramatically, leading to a surge in demand for senior housing and related services.
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Shifting Preferences:
Boomers are known for their independence and desire to maintain their lifestyle. They are looking for senior living options that cater to their individual needs and preferences.
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Focus on Affordability:
While some boomers have financial resources, many face challenges in affording senior living or long-term care. This highlights the need for more affordable options and the potential for government assistance.
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Demand for Home-Based Services:
While many boomers may eventually choose senior living, a significant portion still prefers to age in place, leading to increased demand for home health services.
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Online Resources:
Numerous online resources and directories can help seniors and their families find senior living communities and services. The California Department of Aging (.gov) offers resources for senior housing options.
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Local Resources:
Check with local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for information on senior programs and support services in the Piedmont area.
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Consider Location:
Factors like proximity to family, medical facilities, and desirable amenities should be considered when choosing a senior community.
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Research Communities:
Visit and tour different senior living communities to assess amenities, services, and community culture.
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Assess Needs:
Evaluate the level of care needed, such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing care.
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Financial Planning:Understand the costs associated with different levels of care and explore options for financing long-term care.
This is why The DiMaggio Betta Group is working to educate Baby Boomers, their children, family members, and caregivers, who not only will become Seniors themselves, one day but who might also be the current caregiver of their parents and grandparents.
Real Estate Advisor, Debbi DiMaggio, along with Kimberly Sweeney—owner of Moving Angels, Certified Senior Move Manager, and Collectibles Advisor—has assembled a trusted team of professionals dedicated to supporting seniors with a wide range of needs.
Debbi and Kimberly invite you to Seniors’ Next Chapter—a special panel and workshop on Saturday, May 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Their mission: to empower seniors and their families by offering valuable guidance and resources to help make your golden years truly shine.
The following is a list of panelists you meet. Bring questions and a friend or family member.
- Liz Lummis O’Neil, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company (CA Ins Lic. #4282724) | Long Term Care Insurance
- Isaac Kim, Wealth Management | Tax Deferred Exchange
- Esther Kestenbaum, Preferred Placement
- Mele Shavers | Authentic Home Care (Aging In Place)
- Zach Griffin, Mortgage Consultant
- Shane Barnard, Estate Planning Attorney
RSVP: SeniorsNextChapter.com or contact Debbi DiMaggio 510.414.6777 or Kimberly Sweeney 510.205.0840 | All Welcome, it’s never too early to start the conversation.
- Sponsored by: Dylan Sanders, AMS Relocation | Bekins Moving Company, Experts in Moving Older Adults
Why it’s good to own a property in Wyoming
Why it’s good to own a property in Wyoming: Other than the tranquility and beauty of the Grand Tetons and surrounding environment.
Here are 10 good reasons why it’s good to own a home in Wyoming:
- No state income tax: With no state tax on personal or corporate income, “you have more disposable income,” Jones says.
- Dynasty trusts: In Wyoming, you can shield your real estate from federal estate taxes for up to 1,000 years through a dynasty trust. “You can establish a trust in Wyoming for the benefit of your family or other beneficiaries,” Jones says. “You can transfer your real estate into a limited liability company or a family partnership and then put that into the ‘dynasty trust.’ which can continue for a thousand years.” As a result, multiple generations can make use of and enjoy the property, without having to pay estate taxes or worse, having to sell the property in order to pay the taxes. A key point to remember: The trust must be administered in Wyoming.
- No inheritance tax or estate tax: “Wyoming repealed its estate tax as of January 1, 2005,” Jones says.
- No state gift tax: “Somebody who owns property in Wyoming can ‘gift’ that real estate to their heirs without having to worry about paying a state gift tax,” Jones says.
- No tax on out-of-state retirement income: “A lot of people in Jackson Hole use Wyoming as a second home,” Jones says. “They have retirement income that comes from other states where they may be a resident. Wyoming doesn’t tax that retirement income that’s earned outside of Wyoming, which is certainly beneficial.”
- Low property taxes: “Wyoming has very low property taxes compared to other states,” Jones says. “The taxes that you do pay here are based on the assessed value of the property.” For Teton County, he says, the rate is 1.2 percent of a property’s assessed value. The rate for the city of Jackson is 8/10 of one percent.
- No excise taxes: When you fill up your car’s gas tank or buy a bag of groceries in Wyoming, you won’t pay any state tax on your gas or food.
- No tax on mineral ownership. “A lot of states charge owners a tax on their mineral ownership, but Wyoming does not,” Jones says. “If you own minerals, you won’t pay a tax on it like you would your home.”
- No intangible taxes: Wyoming doesn’t make you pay a tax on financial assets like stocks and bonds.
- No tax on the sale of real estate.
Seeking a knowledgeable and experienced Real Estate Advisor, reach out and let us make an introduction. Wherever you aim to be we have you covered. www.DiMaggioBettaGroup.con | Debbi.DiMaggio@corcoranicon.com | Adam.Betta@corcoranicon.com | 510.414.6777 | 510.414.1250
10 Reasons to Buy Your Home with The DiMaggio Betta Group
When you buy a home with the DiMaggio Betta Group, you might enjoy several benefits beyond just the property itself. Here are ten potential perks:
- **Expert Guidance**: Benefit from the expertise of seasoned real estate professionals who can help navigate the buying process. Adam and Debbi have been guiding clients for nearly 35 years, and successfully launched Highland Partners Real Estate during the recession. (Merged with Corcoran in 2021).
- **Negotiation Skills**: Strong negotiation tactics to secure the best price and terms for your new home. One of their greatest strengths—and a valuable asset to you—is their strong network and close relationships with agents in the areas where you’re looking to buy.
- **Market Insights**: Access to valuable local market data that helps you make informed decisions. Due to their close relationships with their agent colleagues, they can help appraisers when the time comes to have your home appraised during the loan process. If a home is pending, Adam or Debbi will call the listing agent to gain insight on the sale price. Only agents with close relationships can obtain this information prior to closing.
- **Home Inspection Services**: Assistance in arranging thorough home inspections to ensure the property is in good condition – is standard in many areas, however, in our area, it is customary that the seller will provide up front. With that said, Debbi and Adam will call on their contractors, plumbers, electricians or others (on short notice) to obtain valuable information to help you make a decision whether or not to put in an offer.
- **Financing Options**: Guidance on various financing options, including mortgage rates and terms that might suit your financial situation. The lender is a crucial part of your team. Meeting with a knowledgeable and experienced mortgage consultant is an important next step after choosing your Real Estate Advisor. Together they can guide and pose questions to best assist you during the home buying process.
- **Contract Advice and Support**: Help with understanding contracts and legal documents to ensure a smooth transaction including disclosures, home inspections, preliminary title reports, closing statements and the like. Connect you with insurance service providers so you can secure fire insurance before closing escrow.
- **Home Warranty**: The DiMaggio Betta Group gives each client they work with, a one year home warranty plan for added peace of mind regarding repairs. They encourage home buyers to renew the plan year after year.
- **Closing Cost Assistance**: Insights into closing costs; including city* and county transfer taxes, and other fees and charges. (City transfer tax rates vary from city to city.).
- **Community Resources**: Information about local schools, amenities, activities, clubs, pickleball groups, golf courses, community events, charitable organizations, and neighborhoods to help you settle in.
- **Post-Purchase Support**: Continued support long after the purchase, including recommendations for contractors and maintenance services, interior designers, architects, plumbers, electricians and handymen; to financial planners, acupuncturists, chiropractors, urgent care centers, doctors, dentists and more. The list is endless. These benefits can enhance your home-buying experience and provide added value beyond the property itself.
Supporting Transitions Through Divorce: Finding Strength in Change
Divorce is one of life’s most difficult transitions, filled with emotional upheaval and uncertainty. Over the years, we have had the privilege of guiding individuals through this challenging chapter, helping them reclaim their confidence, redefine their path, and build a fulfilling new life.
Through our extensive real estate expertise and personal experience, we specialize in guiding couples through the complexities of real estate transactions during divorce, offering support, clarity, and solutions to help them navigate this challenging transition.
Healing takes time, and each journey is unique. Our goal is to provide compassion, guidance, and practical tools to help you move forward—at your own pace—toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
You are not alone. Together, we can embrace this new chapter with strength, resilience, and purpose.
How Professionals in the National Association of Divorce Professionals (NADP) Help Their Clients
Divorce is a challenging and emotional process, requiring not just legal support but also financial guidance, emotional well-being, and real estate expertise. As professionals within the National Association of Divorce Professionals (NADP), we understand the complexities involved and are committed to guiding our clients with compassion and strategic solutions. Here’s how we make a difference in their lives:
1. Providing a Team of Experts
Divorce impacts multiple aspects of a person’s life, from finances and housing to mental health and child custody. The NADP brings together a network of specialists, including attorneys, financial advisors, real estate experts, and therapists, to ensure a holistic approach to divorce proceedings. This collaboration minimizes stress and provides clients with a seamless, well-supported transition.
2. Ensuring Financial Stability and Future Planning
Financial concerns are often a primary stressor during divorce. Our financial advisors and certified divorce financial analysts (CDFAs) help clients understand asset division, tax implications, and long-term planning to ensure financial stability. We guide them in making informed decisions that align with their future goals.
3. Real Estate Guidance for a Fresh Start
For many, the family home is one of the most significant assets in a divorce. As real estate professionals specializing in divorce transactions, we help clients evaluate their options—whether selling the property, buying a new home, or navigating co-ownership situations. Our goal is to ensure that clients make decisions that support both their financial and emotional well-being.
4. Legal Support with Compassion
Navigating the legal system during a divorce can be overwhelming. NADP attorneys and mediators work to protect our clients’ rights while also offering alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and collaborative divorce, to reduce conflict and cost. We prioritize solutions that promote fair outcomes and minimize unnecessary legal battles.
5. Emotional and Psychological Support
Divorce is not just a legal and financial process—it’s an emotional journey. Our network includes therapists, life coaches, and support groups that help individuals manage stress, rebuild confidence, and transition into their next chapter with clarity and strength.
6. Child-Centered Approach
For divorcing parents, the well-being of their children is paramount. Our professionals, including family law attorneys and child psychologists, assist in developing co-parenting strategies, custody arrangements, and communication techniques that prioritize the best interests of the children while maintaining a sense of stability.
7. Streamlining the Process
By working with NADP professionals, clients benefit from a coordinated team approach, reducing the confusion and inefficiencies that often come with handling divorce matters separately. We streamline the process, saving time, reducing emotional strain, and providing a structured plan for moving forward.
A New Beginning with Expert Guidance
Divorce marks the end of one chapter but also the beginning of another. Through our expertise, compassion, and strategic guidance, NADP professionals empower clients to transition with confidence, knowing they have the support of a knowledgeable team dedicated to their success.
If you or someone you know is navigating divorce, reach out to the DiMaggio Betta Group, NADP professionals; we are here to provide the support and expertise needed to move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
Debbi’s NADP Profile | Connect with the DiMaggio Betta Group and let them guide you through this difficult transition.
Join Us for A Workshop and Panel Discussion for Seniors
Seniors Next Chapter | Navigating Your Next Move | Demystifying the Downsizing Process
You’re Invited: Join Us on May 10th from 11-1:30PM | Panel and Workshop for Seniors and those Supporting Seniors
- Debbi DiMaggio, DiMaggio Betta Group, Real Estate Advisors for the Generations
- Kimberly Sweeney, Moving Angels | Certified Senior Move Manager, Collectibles Advisor
- Laura Klein, Spruce Home Advantage
- Liz Lummis O’Neil, New York Life Insurance Company (Long Term Care Insurance)
- Isaac Kim, Wealth Management | Tax Deferred Exchange
- Mele Shavers | Authentic Home Care (Aging In Place)
- Esther Kestenbaum, Preferred Placement
- Zach Griffin, Mortgage Consultant
- Shane Barnard Law, Trust Attorney
Sponsored By: Dylan Sanders, AMS Relocation | Bekins Moving Company, Experts in Moving Older Adults
As seniors prepare to downsize and move to their last home, they often face several concerns and needs.
Here are the top five:
- **Emotional Support**: Leaving a long-time home can be emotionally challenging. Seniors may need assistance coping with the feelings of loss and nostalgia, along with support from family or counseling services.
- **Decluttering and Organizing**: Sorting through years of belongings can be overwhelming. Seniors often need help deciding what to keep, donate, or discard, making this process smoother and less stressful.
- **Finding the Right Living Arrangement**: Choosing a suitable new home, whether it’s a smaller house, apartment, or assisted living facility, is crucial. Seniors may require guidance in researching options that fit their needs and budget.
- **Financial Planning**: Downsizing can impact finances significantly. Seniors often need help understanding the financial implications, including the sale of their current home, moving costs, and budgeting for their new living situation.
- **Health and Mobility Considerations**: Seniors may have specific health or mobility needs that influence their new living arrangements. They may need assistance in finding a home that accommodates these requirements, including accessibility features or proximity to healthcare facilities.
Addressing these concerns can help ensure a smoother transition to a new, more manageable living situation.
Note: Debbi can also connect you with experienced and compassionate Real Estate Advisors and Organizers in cities and states beyond the East Bay Area, a service she has successfully provided for many years.
Come with Questions or Reach Out Ahead of Time So We Can Come Better Prepared | Debbi.DiMaggio@corcoranicon.com 510.414.6777
Debbi DiMaggio is an accomplished author, the host of Mastering the Art of Real Estate, and a seasoned real estate expert with a passion for helping clients navigate the complexities of the real estate market. With over 30 years of experience in luxury real estate, Debbi has earned a reputation for her insightful approach and dedication to client satisfaction.
She believes in the importance of building genuine relationships to create lasting connections and trust with her clients in both her writing and real estate endeavors. When she’s not selling homes or writing, Debbi enjoys inspiring others to pursue their dreams, traveling, meeting new people, and her charity work with UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and Race to Erase MS. Connect with Debbi at SeniorsNextChapter.com | 510.414.6777
Debbi DiMaggio is a highly experienced real estate professional with more than 30 years in the industry, specializing in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, and LA markets. She has built a reputation for her deep understanding of residential real estate and her unwavering commitment to exceptional client service. Debbi’s extensive knowledge and keen negotiation skills have earned her numerous accolades making her a trusted advisor for first time home buyers to seasoned buyers and sellers. Debbi holds the Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation, reflecting her dedication to assisting seniors in downsizing and transitioning to their next phase with empathy and expertise.
In addition to her real estate career, and podcast host of, “Mastering The Art of Real Estate,” she is a mentor and coach. Debbi is also a published author and has written extensively on the nuances of residential real estate in her books, “The Art of Real Estate” and “52 Ways To Achieve Success in Real Estate,” as well as for Piedmont Living Magazine and The Piedmont Post, as the real estate editorial expert. Debbi is currently working on her newest books, “From Locker Room to Boardroom: Athletic Mindsets Driving Business Success” and “100 Days of the Empty Nest.”
Seniors In Transition
Downsizing Made Simple: Supporting Seniors Through Life’s Next Chapter
For over 30 years, we’ve helped seniors and their families navigate one of life’s biggest transitions—downsizing and moving into a new chapter with ease. From planning and organizing to handling the heavy lifting, our dedicated team takes care of every detail so you don’t have to. Whether you’re preparing for a move or simply thinking ahead, starting early can make all the difference. Let us make the process seamless and stress-free.
Where Do You Begin?
The thought of downsizing can feel overwhelming. A lifetime of memories, cherished possessions, and sentimental belongings—what stays, what goes, and how do you decide?
You may be wondering:
- Where do I start?
- What do I do with all of my things?
- My children live far away—who will help me?
Many seniors find this time to be isolating, especially as family members are busy with their own lives. That’s where we come in.
You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help
We provide a clear, compassionate plan to ease your worries and simplify the process. Our team walks you through every step, just as we have for so many others. And if you’d like, we can even connect you with past clients who can share their experiences.
Whether you’re planning for yourself or assisting a parent or grandparent, know that you are in good hands. Our kind and qualified team understands the emotional and logistical challenges of this transition. We are here to lighten the load and make this next chapter a positive and empowering experience. Let’s start the conversation. Schedule a call today—we’re here for you every step of the way. Debbi DiMaggio | 510.414.6777 | SeniorsNextChapter.com
You’re Invited: Join Us on May 10th from 11-1:30PM | Panel and Workshop for Seniors and those Supporting Seniors
- Debbi DiMaggio, DiMaggio Betta Group, Real Estate Advisors for the Generations
- Kimberly Sweeney, Moving Angels | Certified Senior Move Manager, Collectibles Advisor
- Laura Klein, Spruce Home Advantage
- Liz Lummis O’Neil, New York Life Insurance Company (Long Term Care Insurance)
- Isaac Kim, Wealth Management | Tax Deferred Exchange
- Esther Kestenbaum, Preferred Placement
- Mele Shavers | Authentic Home Care (Aging In Place)
- Zach Griffin, Mortgage Consultant
- Shane Barnard, Trust Law
Sponsored By: Dylan Sanders, AMS Relocation | Bekins Moving Company, Experts in Moving Older Adults
Debbi DiMaggio is an accomplished author and a seasoned real estate expert with a passion for helping clients navigate the complexities of the real estate market. With over 30 years of experience in luxury real estate, Debbi has earned a reputation for her insightful approach and dedication to client satisfaction.
She believes in the importance of building genuine relationships to create lasting connections and trust with her clients in both her writing and real estate endeavors. When she’s not selling homes or writing, Debbi enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and her charity work with UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and Race to Erase MS. Connect with Debbi at 510.414.6777 | DiMaggioBettaGroup.co | SeniorsNextChapter.com
Transferring Your Tax Basis
Transferring Your Tax Basis in California: What You Need to Know
If you’re a homeowner in California, you may be able to transfer your property tax basis to a new home, thanks to Proposition 19. This can result in significant tax savings, especially if you’ve owned your home for many years and have a lower assessed value.
Understanding Proposition 19
Proposition 19, which took effect in April 2021, allows eligible homeowners to transfer their property tax basis to a new home under certain conditions. This means that if you qualify, you won’t have to pay property taxes based on the current market value of your new home but instead retain the lower tax basis from your previous residence.
Who Qualifies?
To transfer your tax basis, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be 55 years or older
- Be severely disabled
- Be a victim of a natural disaster or wildfire
Key Benefits of Proposition 19
- Transfer to Any County in California: Unlike previous laws that limited transfers to select counties, Proposition 19 allows transfers anywhere in the state.
- Up to Three Transfers: Homeowners 55+ or disabled can transfer their tax basis up to three times in their lifetime.
- Move to a More Expensive Home: If your new home costs more than your original one, you can still transfer your tax basis, but the difference in value will be added to your new assessment.
How to Apply
- Purchase or identify your new home within two years of selling your previous home.
- Complete the required forms with your county assessor’s office.
- Submit documentation proving your eligibility (e.g., age verification, disability status, or proof of loss due to a disaster).
- Await confirmation from the county assessor regarding your adjusted tax basis.
Maximizing Your Savings
For those looking to downsize or relocate within California, Proposition 19 provides an excellent opportunity to maintain lower property taxes while moving into a new home that better suits your needs.
If you’re considering a move and want to explore how transferring your tax basis can benefit you, reach out to our team at the DiMaggio Betta Group. We’re here to help guide you through every step of the process!
For personalized real estate advice, contact us today at www.dimaggiobettagroup.co!
Here are a few helpful links:
From Long Island to Montclair: Crafting a Vibrant New Chapter in Retirement
Building Resilience: Essential Mitigation Strategies for Homeowners Against Natural Disasters
Homeowners can adopt a variety of effective mitigation strategies to reduce the risks associated with natural disasters and improve the resilience of their properties. Let’s prepare ahead so we can mitigate losses as much as possible.
Here are some key strategies to consider:
1. Flood Mitigation: Elevate the Home:
If you live in a flood-prone area, consider elevating your home above the base flood elevation. This can involve raising the foundation or using flood vents.
-Install Flood Barriers: Use flood walls, levees, or berms to protect your property from rising water.
-Sump Pumps: Install sump pumps with battery backup systems to remove water from basements or crawl spaces during heavy rains.
2. Wind and Storm Resistance: Reinforce Roofs:
-Use hurricane straps to secure the roof to the walls, and consider impact-resistant roofing materials that can withstand high winds.
-Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or impact-resistant glass to protect windows and doors from flying debris.
-Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles during storms
3. Fire Prevention: Create Defensible Space:
-Clear vegetation and debris within a designated distance from your home to reduce fire risk. Maintain a buffer of at least 30 feet with minimal flammable materials.
-Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Use fire-resistant plants and materials in landscaping to minimize the risk of fire spreading to your home.
-Install Firebreaks: Create firebreaks by removing combustible materials and using gravel or other non-flammable materials in landscaping.
4. Seismic Preparedness:
-Secure Heavy Items: Secure heavy furniture, appliances, and other items to walls to prevent them from tipping over during an earthquake.
-Foundation Reinforcement: Retrofit your home’s foundation to better withstand seismic activity. This may include bolting the house to its foundation and reinforcing walls.
-Install Flexible Utilities: Use flexible connections for gas lines and plumbing to reduce the risk of leaks during an earthquake.
5. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:
-Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Invest in energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and windows to reduce energy consumption and enhance comfort during extreme weather.
-Install Solar Panels: Consider solar energy systems to decrease reliance on the grid, especially during power outages caused by natural disasters.
-Rainwater Harvesting: Implement rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store rainwater for irrigation or other uses, reducing dependence on municipal water supplies.
6. Emergency Preparedness:
Create an Emergency Kit: Prepare a disaster supply kit with essential items such as food, water, medications, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
-Develop an Evacuation Plan: Plan escape routes and designate meeting places for family members to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
-Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts and notifications regarding severe weather or other emergencies to stay informed and prepared.
7. Insurance Considerations:
Review and Update Insurance Policies: Ensure you have adequate coverage for natural disasters relevant to your area, such as flood or earthquake insurance. Regularly review your policies to adapt to changes in your property or risks. Check with your insurance provider for potential discounts on premiums for implementing certain mitigation measures.
By implementing these mitigation strategies, homeowners can significantly reduce the risks posed by natural disasters and enhance the resilience of their properties. Taking proactive steps not only protects your home but also contributes to the safety and well-being of your family and community. Piedmont offers a program to help neighborhoods prepare for natural disasters and emergencies. If you’re interested in getting started, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to guide you through the process.
Contact the DiMaggio Betta Group if you are in need of an insurance quote.
or Call 510.414.6777 | Debbi DiMaggio, Always Happy To Take Your Call and Help Guide You Through Whatever It Is You May Need.
East Bay Parks and Rec
A List of A Few Parks and Recreation for You To Enjoy. Ask us about others around the Bay Area, as there are many to choose from.
Mt Diablo
Sibley
Lafayette Resevoir
MacDonald Trail, Parkridge Trailhead
Oakland Hills Swim and Tennis Club
Piedmont Stables, 6525 Redwood Rd
Woodminster Summer Musicals
Chabot Space & Science Center
Roberts Regional Recreation AreaJoaquin Miller Park
Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
Piedmont Park
Piedmont Rec Center
Piedmont Center for the Arts
For a tour of our vibrant neighborhoods in the East Bay, reach out to Debbi DiMaggio or Adam Betta.
