Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Where Oakland Sips and Socializes
Welcome to Oakland, where every sip tells a story and every social encounter is a vibrant chapter in the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland’s diverse neighborhoods boast an array of unique cafes, bars, and lounges, each offering its own blend of flavors, ambiance, and community spirit. From artisanal coffee shops buzzing with creative energy to chic cocktail bars exuding urban sophistication, Oakland is a hub for those who appreciate the art of savoring a drink and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Join us as we embark on a journey through Oakland’s vibrant drinking scene, where every sip is a celebration of the city’s eclectic charm and spirited camaraderie.
* Beeryland Oakland Beergarden
* Beer 🍺 Baron Whisky 🥃 Bar
* Drakes Dealership Open Air Beergarden
* Mad Oak Bar & Yard
* North Light Bar & Books
* Oeste Rooftop
* The New Parkway Theatre 🎭 Dinner + Movie 🎥
* Viridian Bar Asian American
Where do you Friday Night? Share your favorites. Connect with The DiMaggio Betta Group, Corcoran Icon Properties.
Sunday Brunch In The East Bay, Oakland + Berkeley, CA
Where do you Weekend Brunch? Here are 5 local spots that have been around for years. — Share your favorites.
1. Grand Lake Kitchen
2. Montclair Egg Shop
3. Rick + Ann’s Domingo, Berkeley
4. Shakewell on Lakeshore
5. Bette’s Oceanview Diner, 4th St, Berkeley- and there is no ocean view.
East Coast West Coast, Left Coast Right Coast
East Coast West Coast, Left Coast Right Coast Not all real estate markets or the way we transact business the same.
Oftentimes we meet up with Buyers who have not transacted in California and have questions and concerns about the absence of a real estate attorney.
On the West Coast, Real Estate Attorneys bring value when something in the contract is vague and could be interpreted in different ways. While we don’t use attorneys to draft or negotiate our contracts (which East Coast agents do), from time to time we bring on an attorney if there is a dispute regarding interpretation of the clause.
1. When are attorneys hired?
In California we will use a real estate attorney when an agent or clients is being sued or want to sue for a real estate-related matter. Or when arbitration and mediation fails.
Buyers and Sellers absolutely should consult an attorney in a variety of circumstances. For example, in a landlord-tenant disupte, we advise calling a “Qualified California Real Estate Attorney.”
Depending on where you are transacting, attorneys are used more or less. For instance, on the East Coast, attorneys draft all real estate contracts, on the West Coast, agents draft their own real estate contracts.
Landlord-tenant disputes require an experienced real estate attorney; further, attorney’s have niches on each side. We will also consult a qualified California Real Estate attorney for non-disclosure disputes.
If you are on the West Coast (where I practice real estate), and have a client purchasing a new or used home, the agent will draft the contract. If there is a legal question, however, we will consult an attorney, otherwise there isn’t a need for a real estate attorney.
2. In the case of a lawsuit:
If you are suing or being sued, you absolutely should bring in a real estate attorney. I had a situation in which I did not want the client to close because the extensive remodel had not yet been completed. Our clients insisted we close and that they would handle the finish work with the sellers directly.
Our client ended up paying another contractor to finish the work, and then sued the seller to reimburse the cost of that work. The seller refused, and countersued and then brought us into the suit, the buyer’s agents. We all hired our own real estate attorney to maneuver us through the process.
In the same way, if you are being sued, use an attorney, if you are buying a home, use a Realtor. Each are experts in their fields.
3. What are the risks of participating in any of these scenarios without a real estate attorney?
The risks of not using an attorney–in the situations where you really ought to–could be very costly, financially and mentally, while extremely time consuming and exhausting! We definitely rely on the counsel of professionals – they advise you. Home purchases are emotional and the price is high, so you need the right attorney to guide you.
4. Who are good candidates for hiring a real estate attorney and why/when? We have trusted attorneys for specific areas; such as landlord-tenant disputes, real estate disputes, boundary disputes. and disclosure disputes.
5. What do real estate attorneys typically charge (either as a flat fee or by the hour)? Attorneys charge hourly but sometimes it can be a flat fee. A closing could be a flat fee, like in New York.
6. How can a reader best find and choose a real estate attorney? Use your agent as your guide! They love helping you!
We provide referrals all day long. Don’t go it alone.
It is imperative to hire an expert in the field you are seeking advice or counsel. The cost to not use an expert can be insurmountable not to mention draining. We are busy enough doing what we do as Realtors, parents, business people, and the like, we cannot be an expert in every field.
Why White Works
Sellers Often Ask, Why White? Here’s a few reasons why we love white.
* Resale Value. Preferred color choice of Buyers
* Makes the space feel larger
* Easy to imagine oneself living in the home
* Looks clean and streamlined
* Fits every style
* Elegant and classic
* Buyers Are More Attracted To White Kitchen Cabinets As Well As White Walls
* White reflects light to make a room look brighter
* White color is associated with calm and serene. The purest of all colors, the white, holds clarity, freshness, simplicity and being organized in its traits. People who love white color are often seen to be calm, balanced, fearless, optimist, independent and have a strong opinion.
* Photographing the Home. It may be best to let your walls act as a supporting element and often white is a great choice
* Color is a personal
* Buyers can better imagine their own things filling the space
Our home has white walls, but we have lots of pink furniture and pink artwork. The white walls allows more flexibility. The next color palette I’m considering is white and tan: a more neutral look.
Connect with The DiMaggio Betta Group, Corcoran Icon Properties
coffee and conversation
Where Do You Meet for Coffee?
Here a few favorites and some new ones in the queue.
Cafenated Coffee Co • Corner of College Ave and Ashby • the Elmwood
Terrace Gifts & Coffee • Next to Village Market and the Terrance Nursery on Broadway Terrace @ Clarewood • Upper Rockridge
And a few more places to meet, sip and socialize below, after this quick read:
Oakland and Berkeley, located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, have vibrant and diverse coffee cultures that reflect the unique character of these communities. Keep in mind that details might have evolved since then, but here’s an overview of the coffee culture in Oakland and Berkeley:
Oakland Coffee Culture: Oakland’s coffee culture is known for its creativity, diversity, and community-oriented atmosphere. The city has a rich history of social activism and cultural diversity, and these influences are often reflected in its coffee scene. Some key aspects of Oakland’s coffee culture include:
- Local Roasters: Oakland is home to several renowned local coffee roasters, each with its own distinct character and approach to sourcing and roasting beans. These roasters often prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.
- Community Focus: Many coffee shops in Oakland emphasize community engagement and social responsibility. Some shops actively support local artists, host events, and contribute to charitable causes.
- Artistic Expression: The city’s creative spirit is evident in its coffee shops, where you may find a blend of art, music, and culture. Some coffee shops serve as galleries for local artists to showcase their work.
- Diversity: Oakland’s diverse population is reflected in its coffee offerings, with shops often featuring a variety of international coffee styles, flavors, and brewing methods.
Berkeley Coffee Culture: Berkeley, located just north of Oakland, is famous for its academic institutions, progressive values, and historical significance in the counterculture movement. Its coffee culture is influenced by these factors and offers its own unique characteristics:
- Academic Atmosphere: With the presence of the University of California, Berkeley, the city’s coffee shops often have an intellectual and scholarly ambiance. You might find students and scholars engaged in discussions or studying.
- Alternative and Sustainable: Berkeley has a history of environmental consciousness and social activism. Many coffee shops prioritize organic and sustainable products, and some even offer fair-trade and locally sourced options.
- Innovation: Like the city itself, Berkeley’s coffee culture can be innovative and experimental. You may encounter shops that offer unique brewing methods, coffee blends, or specialty drinks.
- Cultural Diversity: Berkeley’s diverse population contributes to a rich variety of coffee options, from traditional to international styles. You might find cafes offering a range of flavors and preparations.
Both Oakland and Berkeley have a “third place” culture, emphasizing the role of coffee shops as spaces for social interaction, relaxation, and creative expression. These communities often value inclusivity, sustainability, and a sense of belonging, which contribute to the distinctive coffee cultures you can experience in these two cities.
OAKLAND
Actual Cafe • 6334 San Pablo Avenue • Golden Gate
Awaken Cafe • 1429 Broadway • Downtown
Blue Bottle Coffee • 300 Webster Street • Jack London
Bicycle Coffee Company • 364 2nd Street • Jack London
Cole Coffee • 307 63rd Street • Fairview Park
Coloso Coffee • 1715 Webster Street • Downtown
City Lights Cafe • 2121 Harrison Street • Lake Merritt
Equator Coffee & Tea • 175 Bay Place • Adams Point
Farley’s East • 33 Grand Avenue • Uptown
Fig & Poe • 396 11th Street • Downtown
Highwire Coffee Roasters • 5655 College Avenue • Rockridge
Modern Coffee • 411 13th Street / 381 19th Street • Civic Center / Uptown
Philz Coffee • 6310 College Avenue • Fairview Park
Red Bay Coffee • 2327 Broadway • Uptown
Subrosa Coffee • 4008 Martin Luther King Jr. Way • Longfellow
Tertulia • 1951 Telegraph • Uptown
The Cro Cafe • 470 49th Street • Temescal
Timeless Coffee • 4252 Piedmont Avenue • North Oakland
Trouble • 1545 Willow Street • West Oakland
BERKELEY
1951 Coffee Shop • 2410 Channing Way • Downtown
Alchemy Collective Cafe • 1741 Alcatraz Avenue • Bushrod
Allegro Coffee Roasters • 1025 Gilman Street • Westbrae
Algorithm Coffee • 1122 University Avenue • West Berkeley
Artis Coffee Roasters • 1717 4th Street • Northwest Berkeley Babette • 2155 Center Street • Downtown
Bartavelle • 1603 San Pablo Avenue • West Berkeley
Blue Bottle Coffee • 2118 Shattuck Avenue • Downtown
Catahoula Coffee • 2080 4th Street • West Berkeley
Cafe Strada • 2300 College Avenue • South Side
Cafe Trieste • 2500 San Pablo Avenue • West Berkeley
CoRo Coffee Room • 2324 Fifth Street • West Berkeley
Fellini Coffee Bar • 1401 University Avenue • West Berkeley
Gold Leaf Cafe • 1947 Martin Luther King Jr. Way • Downtown
Guerilla Cafe • 1620 Shattuck Avenue • North Berkeley
Philz Coffee • 1313 9th Street Ste 110 • Westbrae
Rasa Coffee • 3140 Martin Luther King Jr. Way • South Berkeley
Raxakoul Coffee & Cheese • 1578 Hopkins Street • Berkeley Hills
Romeo’s Coffee • 2499 Telegraph Avenue • South Side
Souvenir Coffee • 3084 Claremont Avenue • Claremont
Victory Point Cafe • 1797 Shattuck Avenue • Gourmet Ghetto
Should you be interested in other recommendations, resources and/or referrals, please reach out. Adam, Chase and I are happy to guide you. We look forward to speaking with you.
East Bay Bites Before 3PM
Bites b43 – Follow my entire Live Local Series on Instagram @DiMaggioAndBetta
Where you might find me if I decide to take a lunch break or meet up with a client, colleague or friend. And what I eat.
.+ Terrace Cafe ( BLT!)
+ Crepevine (Nutella & Strawberries )
+ Summer Kitchen (Chinese Chicken Salad)
+Casa Barotti (Pepperoni or Sausage, Spicy
+Yellow Door (Chinese Chicken Salad)
Share your favorites. I’ve tagged each establishment.
Enjoy!
The Fabulous Variety of Architectural Styles in the SF Bay Area
Architectural Styles In And Around the Bay Area, Range from Modern to Traditional and Everything In Between
By Summer Intern, Adhi Bornstein
The San Francisco Bay Area is known for its diverse and vibrant medley of architectural landscape. From historic Victorian homes to sleek modern designs, the region contains architectural styles that are reflective of the region’s rich history, cultural diversity, and progressive spirit. Throughout this blog post, we will delve into the most common architectural styles found within the San Francisco Bay Area, highlighting their unique characteristics and significance.
Victorian
The Victorian era has left an unforgettable mark on the architectural fabric of the Bay Area. Victorian homes contain ornate details, vibrant color, steep pitched roofs, and are iconic landmarks throughout the region. Most notable is the “San Francisco Victorian”, characterized by the iconics Painted ladies row houses with intricate woodwork and colorful facades. This style is a testament to the city’s historical cast and oers a charming glimpse into the 19th century architectural aesthetics.
Spanish Revival ( like my family home in Piedmont )
The Spanish Revival style emerged in the early 20th century, influenced heavily by Spanish colonial architecture. Known for their stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and decorative accents like arched windows and wrought-iron details, these buildings exude a sense of Mediterranean elegance. Many homes and public publids in the Bay Area, such as the Berkeley City Club, embrace this architectural style infusing a touch of Old World charm into the region’s architectural tapestry.
Craftsman
Craftsman styles homes, popular during the early 20th century, emphasize fine craftsmanship and natural materials. These homes often feature low-pitched roofs, front porches, exposed rafters, and use of wood and stone elements. The craftsman style blend harmoniously with the Bay Area’s natural surroundings and can be seen in many neighborhoods, particularly in cities like Berkeley and Oakland.
Mid-Century Modern ( SOLD, DiMaggio Betta Group, Berkeley, CA )
The Mid-Century Modern movement gained prominence in the post World War 2 era, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and a seamless integration with nature. Architects like Joseph Eichler created modernist homes, characterized by open floor plans, large windows, flat roods and a focus on indoor-outdoor living. The Bay Area boasts several neighborhoods with these iconic homes, such as the Eichler homes in Palo Alto and Marin County, showing the region’s embrace of contemporary design.
Contemporary
As the Bay Area evolves, so does its architectural landscape. Contemporary styles blend innovative design with sustainability and environmental considerations. Many new structures feature sleek lines, extensive use of glass, energy-efficient features, and green roofs. Architects and designers in the area continue to push boundaries, creating unique and visually striking buildings that redefined the skyline of cities like San Francisco and Oakland.
Overall, the San Francisco Bay Area is a treasure trove of architectural styles that reflect its history, cultural density, and progressive mindset. From the picturesque Victorian homes that evoke a bygone era to the sleek lines of contemporary designs, the region’s architectural landscape is a testament to the evolving tastes and aspirations of its residents. Exploring the various architectural styles in the Bay Area is not only a visual delight but also a journey through time and a celebration of the region’s rich heritages.
Whether you appreciate the intricate details of Victorian homes, the timeless elegance of Spanish Revival or the innovative spirit of contemporary design, the architectural styles in the San Francisco Bay Area offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past, present, and future.
Common Questions Asked By Home Buyers
Potential home buyers often have numerous questions as they navigate the process of purchasing a property. Here are some common questions asked by potential home buyers:
- Affordability: Buyers often want to know how much they can afford and what their mortgage options are. They may ask about loan pre-approval, down payment requirements, and estimated monthly payments.
- Neighborhood and Location: Buyers frequently inquire about the quality of the neighborhood, nearby amenities (schools, parks, shopping centers), safety, proximity to workplaces, and transportation options.
- Property Features: Buyers want to understand the specific features and condition of the property. They may ask about the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, age of the home, recent renovations or upgrades, and potential maintenance issues.
- Pricing and Negotiation: Buyers often ask about the listing price, recent comparable sales, and strategies for making competitive offers. They may seek advice on negotiation tactics and factors that can influence the final purchase price.
- Financing and Mortgage Options: Buyers may have questions about different types of mortgages, interest rates, and the mortgage application process. They may inquire about the best lenders or seek recommendations for mortgage brokers.
- Home Inspection: Buyers commonly want to know about the importance of a home inspection and what it entails. They may ask about potential issues that could be discovered during the inspection and how to handle them.
- Property History and Disclosures: Buyers often inquire about the history of the property, including past ownership, renovations, or any known issues. They may also want to understand the seller’s disclosure obligations and what information they should expect to receive.
- Closing Process and Timelines: Buyers may ask about the overall timeline for closing on a property, including the steps involved and any potential delays or contingencies that could arise.
- Homeowners Association (HOA): If the property is part of an HOA, buyers may inquire about HOA fees, rules and regulations, and any special assessments or upcoming projects.
- Future Potential: Buyers may have questions about the potential for property value appreciation, the resale value, and any planned developments or infrastructure projects in the area.
These are just a few examples of the common questions that potential home buyers often ask. Each buyer’s situation and priorities may vary, so it’s important to address their specific concerns and provide relevant information to assist them in their decision-making process.
We are ready to assist you with your personal real estate goals.
Common Questions Asked by Home Sellers
Real estate clients who are interested in selling their property typically have various questions and concerns. Here are some common topics they may want to know about:
- Market Analysis: Clients often want to understand the current market conditions in their area, including recent sales prices, average days on market, and trends affecting property values.
- Pricing Strategy: Clients seek guidance on setting the right price for their property. They may want to know the fair market value, comparable sales in the neighborhood, and factors that can impact the listing price.
- Marketing Plan: Sellers want to know how their property will be marketed to attract potential buyers. They may inquire about online listings, professional photography, open houses, virtual tours, print advertising, and social media promotion.
- Repairs and Staging: Clients may ask about necessary repairs or improvements that can enhance the appeal of their property. They may also seek advice on staging, decluttering, or depersonalizing the home to make it more marketable.
- Timing and Timeline: Sellers often want to know how long it may take to sell their property and the best time to list it. They may inquire about seasonal market fluctuations and the average time properties stay on the market in their area.
- Negotiation and Offers: Clients may have questions about the negotiation process, including how to evaluate and respond to offers. They may want to understand contingencies, inspections, and potential counteroffers.
- Costs and Fees: Sellers often want to know about the costs associated with selling their property, such as real estate agent commissions, closing costs, and potential expenses related to repairs or staging.
- Legal and Documentation: Clients may have questions regarding the legal aspects of selling real estate, including required disclosures, contracts, and any local regulations or permits that may apply.
- Tax Implications: Sellers may seek information on the tax consequences of selling their property, such as capital gains taxes or tax exemptions that may be applicable in their situation.
- Moving and Relocation: Clients may inquire about resources for moving services, storage options, and assistance with the logistics of relocating to a new property.
These are just a few examples of the questions and concerns that real estate clients typically have when considering selling their property. Each client’s situation may vary, so it’s important to address their specific needs and provide personalized guidance throughout the selling process.
Interested in specifics for your home or move, just reach out. The DiMaggio Betta Group looks forward to speaking with you.
5 reasons a seller should stage
- We get one chance to make a good first impression, and selling a home is no different
- Photographs look better and will draw in more Buyers and provide more marketing opportunities
- The home will sell faster
- Buyers can visualize themselves in the home easier
- Staging is an expense, thus a tax write-off for the Seller
Allow us to help you prepare your home for market. Step Inside
