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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.
Gearing Up To Buy A Home: Key Factors That Go Into Writing An Offer
The following outlines the necessary elements of an offer to buy a house, helping you navigate this process with confidence and increase your chances of a successful purchase. Don’t get overwhelmed, just ask a lot of questions — now matter how small the question we can help.
Adam, Chase and I work as a team to make this experience as seamless as possible. Please connect us with your lender, if you are not working with one of our current partners, so we can position you for success when the time comes to present your offer. We will also refer insurance agents so when we enter into escrow you can obtain loan insurance for your new home.
The Offer:
- Purchase Price: The purchase price is the most critical element of your offer. It represents the amount you are willing to pay for the property. Determine a fair market value by considering comparable sales in the area. Depending on the number of offers being made comps will become irrelevant if you wish to beat out the competition. We will discuss appraisal and loan contingencies when contemplating the offer price
- Earnest Money Deposit: An earnest money deposit demonstrates your commitment to the purchase. It is a sum of money, typically 3% of the purchase price, held in escrow. Should the offer be accepted, this deposit is applied towards the down payment and closing costs. To insure confidence in the seller and seller’s agent we like to have funds wired within 24 hours, as per the default clause in the contract you have 3 days to wire funds to escrow which is to the title company who is the neutral 3rd party and takes instructions from both the sellers and buyers agents.
- Financing Contingency: Including a financing contingency protects you in case you are unable to secure a mortgage loan. This contingency specifies a timeframe within which you must obtain a loan approval. If financing falls through within the agreed-upon timeframe, you can withdraw from the transaction without losing your earnest money deposit. However, it is typical that a buyer in our competitive area, you may want to waive this contingency. This is one of the reasons we need to speak with your lender ahead of writing an offer. He/she will provide confidence in your ability to obtain financing and if he/she thinks you need this contingency or not. We can then share our confidence with the listing agent providing them a reason to take our offer over any others.
- Appraisal Contingency: Lender will lend up to 80% of the value of the home. If the home does not appraise a buyer will have to make up the difference in their down payment if there was not an appraisal contingency in the offer. We will discuss this each time we write an offer. If we are in agreement that the value is there a buyer will consider waiving this contingency. 90+% of our offers are non contingent.
- Inspection Contingency: Disclosures and Reports are typically provided ahead of time so this contingency (in our market) is typically waived in order to be competitive. On the contrary, in the LA area, agents/sellers do not provide inspections and/or disclosures ahead of time so there can be a renegotiation of price and credits. I prefer our area standards to theirs.
- Contingencies: Contingencies are conditions that must be met for the purchase to proceed. Common contingencies include a satisfactory home inspection, appraisal, and the sale of your current home if applicable. Clearly outline any contingencies you require, along with specific deadlines for completing them.
- Inclusions and Exclusions: Specify any items that you expect to be included in the sale, such as appliances, fixtures, or furniture. Conversely, outline any items you explicitly want to exclude. Being clear about inclusions and exclusions helps avoid misunderstandings during the negotiation and closing process.
- Home Inspection: Include a provision for a professional home inspection. This contingency allows you to hire a qualified inspector to assess the condition of the property. If significant issues are discovered, you can negotiate repairs, credits, or even withdraw from the offer, depending on the agreed-upon terms.
- Disclosures and Reports: Disclosures and reports are typically provided by the seller and their agent ahead of time —including property history, inspections, repairs, and any known issues. Review these documents thoroughly. Be sure to request the disclosure link for ANY property you are, or may be interested in, together we will be able to follow offer dates and obtain new information as it is made available.
- Closing Date and Timeline: Specify the desired closing date in your offer. This is the date when the ownership of the property will be transferred to you. Consider factors such as your financing timeline, the seller’s availability, and any other pertinent factors that may impact the closing date. A typical closing date is 21-30 days.
Interested in school information, local restaurants, cafes or activities? Need a doctor or dentist recommendation? We have you covered. We are also happy to make introductions to others who may help with school decisions, plus a myriad of other needs you may have as you target your search and settle into your new community. We are very connected and have a resource for anything you may need.
DiMaggio Betta Group
Debbi DiMaggio 510.414.6777 | Adam Betta 510.414.1250 | Chase Betta 510.418.3667
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
When Asked About Real Estate Myths
Truth or Myth: I chose one common real estate myth, and here was my response.
MYTH: Home Buyers DO NOT need a Realtor
TRUTH: They do.
This is a myth for both home buyers and home sellers alike.
Let’s just review why a Buyer DOES in fact, NEED a Realtor when purchasing a home. Or, should certainly consider hiring a qualified Realtor.
Here are Top 5 Reasons To Partner with A Realtor for Success:
1. The Seller pays the commission so it would be foolish not to take advantage of the opportunity to work with an expert.
2. Would you choose not to hire an attorney if you were being sued?
3. A Realtor will guide you every step of the way; they will counsel, offer advice, break down the process and dissuade you from potentially making a big wrong decision or many small mistakes.
4. An agent will connect you with a variety of professionals from service providers to reputable lenders and efficient escrow officers, to inspectors, insurance reps and more.
5. Your agent will provide insight and expertise and know what sorts of questions to ask the listing agent, service providers, lender, insurance agent, etc.
Avoid buying a home with latent issues, getting yourself into trouble and/or making a huge financial mistake. Working with a knowledgeable agent has big upside and not working with one may potentially cause you heartache, headaches and great financial loss.
To learn more contact the DiMaggio Betta Group.
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.”
We Are All Created Equal
Real (estate) Conversations 1.5. We are all created equal.
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.
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.
Clients, friends and colleagues, we look forward to connecting soon.
All our best,
Debbi, Adam & Chase
Realtors for the Generations
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
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
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
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
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.
