Downsizing October 7, 2025

Preparing for a move or just making room

Moving or Not, It’s Never Too Early to Declutter Your Space

CDs, Vinyls, Cluttering Your Closets and Your Garage?

I’ve been spending the past few months helping an older friend declutter, donate, and prepare for her move into a new home. Downsizing can be overwhelming, which is why I always recommend hiring a professional move manager to guide the process. However, if you—or your clients or friends—decide to tackle it on your own, the best thing you can do is offer support, encouragement, and resources along the way.

Yesterday, I discovered a wonderful place that buys and sells CDs and vinyl records, and I’ve added a few others to the list. If you live in another part of the country or world, simply search online for phrases like “Sell CDs” or “Who buys vinyls near me,” and you’re sure to find local shops.

CDs and LP records

Let me know how it goes or if you’d like additional resources—I’m always happy to share recommendations and contacts with agents, friends, clients, and colleagues.

Stores that commonly pay CASH (on the spot)

These shops regularly buy used CDs/vinyl and typically pay cash (sometimes offering store credit as an option).

1. Open Mind Music — Oakland ( Very Nice Owner )
5521 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618 — (415) 920-9400

“We buy, sell and trade records and music memorabilia” — open daily; contact them to confirm whether they’ll pay cash or offer store credit for CDs. ( Tell Henry I Debbi Sent You )

2. Amoeba Music — Berkeley
2455 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 — (510) 549-1125

Buys used CDs/vinyl and will pay cash (or offer ~30% more in store credit). Hours vary — check before you go.

3. Econo Jam Records — Oakland
2443 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612 — (510) 465-2559

Open daily; they explicitly state they buy collections and will appraise while open — typically pay cash.

4. 1-2-3-4 GO! Records — Oakland
420 40th St, Oakland, CA 94609

Store open daily and they say they “buy used records every day” (they handle CDs/vinyl and will buy collections). Likely cash on appraisal.

5. Groove Yard — Oakland (Jazz specialty)
5555 Claremont Ave, Oakland, CA 94618 — (510) 655-8400

Specializes in jazz LPs & CDs and buys collections — typically pays cash for desirable items.

Stores that may pay cash OR offer store credit (call ahead)

These shops will buy used music but the payment method or whether they accept specific CDs can vary by genre, condition, and current inventory needs.

1. Rasputin Music — Berkeley
2401 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 — (510) 704-1146

Longtime Bay-Area chain that buys used CDs/vinyl — payment may be cash or store credit depending on item and location policy. Check current hours before visiting.

2. Dark Entries Records — San Francisco (by appointment/shop)
910 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Boutique label/store; will buy select items by appointment — payment method depends on the item and appraisal.

Quick tips before you go

• Call ahead with a short list of artists/titles — many shops only buy certain genres or will decline low-demand CDs. What they buy/take may change.

• Bring items clean and organized (no broken cases). Big collections sometimes are appraised and you get a call later (Econo Jam notes this).

• Ask whether they prefer cash or store credit — some shops (Amoeba) offer more value if you take credit.

 

For personalized real estate advice, or other resources contact us today at DiMaggioBettaGroup.co | 510.414.6777 |  510.414.1250

 

Mastering the art of success with Debbi DiMaggio and guest, Krystal Chryssomallis

Mastering the Art of Success

Krystal Chryssomallis is a global storyteller, brand strategist, and photographer who has worked in over 60 countries, helping mission-driven brands create lasting impact and loyal audiences. For nearly two decades, she’s worked behind the scenes with some of the world’s most recognized organizations—from Disney and NASA to UNICEF and world-renowned musician Yanni—building movements that go beyond marketing campaigns.

Krystal’s work focuses on helping brands uncover the story that matters most—so they can inspire trust, spark connection, and create legacies that make a meaningful difference in the world.

Watch the Episode or Listen Wherever You Get Your Podcasts

Meet our Guests and Follow Us at www.DebbiPodcast.com

The DiMaggio Betta Group looks forward to partnering with you on the purchase or sale of your next home — or connecting you with one of our trusted partners around the globe. Our network of compassionate, like-minded agents is extensive, ensuring you’re supported wherever your journey takes you.

In need of a service provider, just ask, we have many at the ready, standing by to assist. We also love to share our favorite restaurants in the East Bay, New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

If you, your son, daughter, friend or colleague is seeking to get involved in a BNI Chapter, please reach out. I am happy to share more about our energetic networking group. Be our guest. No matter where you reside you can be a guest and check out our group and BNI in general.

Viva La Vida!
The DiMaggio Betta Group 510.414.6777 | 510.414.1250 
#01047447 | #00979841
Baby Boomers July 31, 2025

How Seniors Can Embrace and Use AI to Enhance Everyday Life

Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t just for tech experts—it’s becoming a practical, accessible tool for daily life. For seniors, AI can simplify tasks, enhance safety, and strengthen connections with loved ones.

Voice Assistants at Home
Smart speakers like Alexa, Google Home, or Siri can set medication reminders, turn lights on and off, play music, and answer quick questions—all with a simple voice command.

Staying Connected
AI makes communication easier and more meaningful. Video calling apps now feature auto-captions and noise reduction. Chatbots like ChatGPT provide friendly conversation or help draft messages, while translation tools connect you with family or assist during travel.

Health and Wellness
Wearables like Apple Watch track heart rate, sleep, and steps—and can even detect falls. Medication apps send reminders, and AI health assistants like Ada help check symptoms and prep for doctor visits.

Organization Made Easy
AI-powered calendars, document scanners, and budgeting tools reduce clutter and offer peace of mind by detecting fraud and streamlining tasks.

Lifelong Learning & Creativity
AI can teach you languages (Duolingo), restore old photos, or help you write your memoirs—turning curiosity into new discoveries.

Safety & Security
Smart home systems detect unusual activity, spam filters block scams, and password managers store secure logins for you.

Start Small
AI isn’t intimidating—it’s here to help. Begin with a voice assistant or app, ask family to show you their favorite tools, and watch it quickly become second nature.

Sign up for events & my newsletter: www.seniorsnextchapter.com. | Get In Touch with Debbi DiMaggio, SRES, Senior Real Estate Specialist.  As always, consultations are complimentary. It’s never too early to plan for your future.

Embracing AI, By Debbi DiMaggio | 510.414.6777 | Debbi.DiMaggio@corcoranicon.com www.DebbiDiMaggio.com

Events March 7, 2025

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:

  1. **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.
  2. **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.
  3. **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.
  4. **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.
  5. **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

invitation to a senior workshop

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.”

Beyond real estate, Debbi is dedicated to inspiring others, traveling, meeting new people, and exploring diverse cultures. She actively gives back through her work with UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and Race to Erase MS. Her commitment to helping others transcends her real estate career, as she continually seeks to create a positive impact in the lives of those around her. Explore her websites www.DebbiDiMaggioRealEstate.com www.CoachWithDebbi.com to learn more, and connect with Debbi directly at 510.414.6777 to begin your real estate journey and next chapter. And if you’re in the neighborhood stop by to say hello at her Piedmont office, 342 Highland Avenue across from the Piedmont Park.
Downsizing February 22, 2025

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

let's meet for coffee

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

Navigating the Downsizing Process

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

DownsizingHome Selling October 22, 2024

Harvesting Fresh Spaces: A Fall Cleaning Guide

Harvesting Fresh Spaces: A Fall Cleaning Guide. Ready to transform your home this season? Here are some quick tips for your seasonal cleaning.

DiMaggio Betta GroupDownsizing October 14, 2024

Navigating the Downsizing Journey: How The DiMaggio Betta Group Supports Seniors

Home Selling October 13, 2024

Navigating the Downsizing Journey: How The DiMaggio Betta Group Supports Seniors

Downsizing can be a significant life change for seniors, often bringing a mix of emotions, challenges, and opportunities. At The DiMaggio Betta Group, we understand that this transition can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

DiMaggio Betta GroupHome Selling January 21, 2022

Downsizing and Your Best Next Chapter

In 2015, which seemed as if it were just the other day, we hosted a seminar at the Piedmont Center for the Arts for homeowners who have resided in their home for 20 years or longer, it was called, Demystifying the Downsizing Process. Flash forward to today, 2022. We listed and are selling the home of one of our attendees. She even kept the memo pad I handed out with the book we wrote, The Art of Real Estate.  The memo pad was one of the many things uncovered as she purged and packed for her relocation and new chapter.

Here are 5 questions to see if you are ready or almost ready to make the move and downsize your home.

  1. Have you resided in your home for over 20, 30 or 40 years?
  2. Are you living in your home alone, and/or is your home too large for your current needs?
  3. Are you overwhelmed with the thought of making a move?
  4. Are you interested in accessing the cash in your home?
  5. Do you have questions about the process? 

If you answered yes to any or all of the above then allow us to guide, counsel and discuss the possibilities and layout your options.

Simply book a complimentary consultation to get started.

Our goal is to educate, guide, be a resource, connect and refer you to those who can help make this next chapter seamless. Allow us to do what we do best which is to facilitate the process with ease, experience and our extensive knowledge.

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