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best of the east bay: sip, dine, do
A Few Places Frequented By The DiMaggio Betta Group
I am often asked for referrals. A referral or recommendation including anything from doctors and dentists to restaurants and things to do, and cafes and places to sip and socialize in and around the Bay and beyond.
Here are a few that came up that I thought I’d share with you. We have so many cafes. At the bottom of this Post you can click Local Cafes to read that Blog Pos.
Dinner for 2, 3 or more:
1. Belotti Ristorante E Bottega | Recommended Restaurant: Simply serves good food
2. Commis | MICHELIN 2 stars: Excellent food worth a detour
3. Mama | MICHELIN Bib Gourmand: Friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices
4. The Wolf (same owners as Wood Tavern) | Both The Wolf, and Wood Tavern, owned by friends, Rick and Rebekah Wood, will feel like you’ve stepped into the sitcom, Cheers. If you want to dive into the East Bay, and “Live Local”, begin here.
5. Wood Tavern | MICHELIN Bib Gourmand: Friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices
Where to Stay:
Berkeley City Club also referred to as “The Little Castle”, designed by Julia Morgan who also designed Hearst Castle in San Simeon. The BCC is an elegant, historical hotel and private club, and is recognized as the most romantic spot in the East Bay for magical weddings, complete with grand pianos, gothic windows, and elegant fireplaces. Located near the UC Berkeley Campus | Go To www.berkeleycityclub.com – If you do decide to schedule a visit, feel free to request an introduction to the Manager, I will be happy to connect you. | The swimming pool at the BCC looks similar to this one below. Not quite as grand, yet similar, and also designed by the infamous Julia Morgan. Miss Morgan also is responsible for designing many East Bay homes in Piedmont, Oakland, Berkeley and Alameda.
Claremont Club + Spa, A Fairmont Resort, Berkeley, CA
The Claremont Resort, a fan favorite. This elegant and Traditional full service resort and spa is worth the visit. Whether a guest in for an overnight, or a local taking a stay vacation, The Claremont is the perfect place to stay, spa, sip, dine and socialize. – LIMEWOOD, one of the restaurants in the hotel, boasts one of the best views of the City. Click Here
Kissel Uptown Oakland (The World of Hyatt)
Looking for a more hip hotel, than this is it. Situated in the heart of Uptown near Downtown, The Kissel is conveniently located to The Paramount Theatre, Uptown Nightclub, the beautifully restored Fox Theatre and a plethora of restaurants and cafes. More Information
What To Experience, See and Do
Jack London Square
Kayak or Canoe In The Oakland Estuary and Brooklyn Basin
Take the Ferry from Jack London Square to San Francisco’s Ferry Building, then sip, shop and dine in the beautiful Ferry Building | Read On, Enjoy!
Oakland Berkeley Hills
Hike Tilden Park, Sibley, Briones or one of the many East Bay Regional Parks in the Oakland Hills
For other recommendations, resources and fun things to do, live and experience, in and around the San Francisco Bay Area, including the Monterey Peninsula and Carmel and the Sonoma, Napa Valley, just ask.
These are just a few of the top recommendations. Interested in something specific, just ask. We are always happy to make a suggestion.
Click to read up on a few LOCAL CAFES
Connect with The DiMaggio Betta Group, partner of Corcoran Icon Properties
Eternally Grateful
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Eternally Grateful to our clients, friends and family, today and everyday.
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When To Hire A California Qualified Real Estate Attorney in Real Estate
Why Buyers and Sellers should hire a qualified, licensed and local Realtor when selling or purchasing a home in California.
As a Realtor since 1989 I highly recommend that both homebuyers and home sellers partner with a qualified, licensed, professional Realtor when buying or selling a home. The following highlight 5 reasons why it’s wise even imperative to hire a professional Realtor
1. For buyers, it’s the seller who is responsible for paying the commission in California, so it would be foolish not to take advantage of the opportunity to work with an expert. Home buying has many aspects involved from identifying a competitive lender, sifting through disclosures, understanding local ordinances and inspections, writing the offer which is multiple pages and is always being updated and charged, negotiation, title, insurance and the closing, not to mention the human element that occurs during a high stake, high price and personal experience. Buying a home is one of the most expensive events in a persons lifetime.
2. Would you choose not to hire an attorney if you were being sued? It goes the same reasoning it’s recommended that both homebuyers and home sellers hire or partner with a Realtor. Buying and selling a home is a very detailed and emotional process not to mention, costly.
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. And long after the transaction is closed most Realtors will be there for you for as long as you need to provide further referrals, resources and recommendations from interior designers, landscapers, attorneys, and even use their local connections to get you into a school or club. My husband and real estate partner, Adam Betta, helped our client get their children into pre school
5. Your buyer’s agent will provide insight and expertise and know what sorts of questions to ask the listing agent, service providers, lender, insurance agent. Your listing agent will be an invaluable resource to bring your home to market looking its best, walk you through pre market inspections, educate you on the nuances of the current market, through disclosures, the offer, negotiation and close.
Working with a knowledgeable agent has big upside and not working with one may potentially cause you heartache, headaches, lawsuits and great financial loss.
Connect with The DiMaggio Betta Group | Corcoran Icon Properties
Kitchens: Colors, Textures, Styles and Finishes
Designed to Inspire
Kitchen Design Inspiration for Your New Home. Need a Designer, Just Ask.
The DiMaggio Betta Group is always available to connect.
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.
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.
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
