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How to prepare and stay safe

In the East Bay, wildfires are an ongoing concern. The recent Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County serve as stark reminders of the devastating impact wildfires can have. The wildfires burning in and around Los Angeles have razed neighborhoods, killed at least 25 people and forced desperate evacuations. The two largest rank among the most deadly and destructive blazes in California history.

Preparation and prevention not only save lives but also protect your home. Every household should pack a go bag, create emergency plans, and prepare for possible power outages. It’s also essential to harden your home against wildfire.

Wildfires can expose your home to direct flames, radiant heat, and flying embers—the latter capable of traveling up to a mile and igniting new fires. While no home can be made entirely fireproof, these steps can significantly reduce risk:

Check your roof: Use ignition-resistant construction methods and Class A fire-rated materials like asphalt, clay, metal, or slate.
Clean rain gutters: Remove flammable debris regularly.
Use fire-resistant materials: Apply these to patio coverings, decks, fences, eaves, soffits, and exterior walls.
Protect vents: Cover them with 1/8" to 1/4” metal mesh to block embers.
Secure chimneys: Install 3/8" to 1/2” metal mesh over chimneys and stove pipe outlets.
Seal openings: Secure dog/cat doors and use weather stripping to cover gaps around garage doors.
Install dual-pane windows: These reduce the chance of shattering from fire heat.
Fireproof the area near your home: Ensure the space within 5 feet of your home is fire-resistant and free of flammable materials.
Create defensible space: Keep flammable items and landscaping away from your home.
Clean up yard debris: Use non-flammable landscaping and hardscaping materials.
Prepare hoses: Keep hoses connected and long enough to reach all areas of your home.
Ensure access for emergency vehicles: Maintain a driveway that accommodates fire engines and other responders.

Preparing together with your neighbors as a community is another excellent way to improve disaster readiness. Inspire neighbors to harden their homes and stock up on fire extinguishers, shovels, and rakes to combat small fires before they spread. Local programs in Oakland and Berkeley offer valuable training opportunities in disaster protocols to enhance community resilience.

Since wildfires can occur unpredictably, increasing fire awareness and safety is essential. We’re here to help you stay informed and prepared. Reach out to access resources or share your suggestions for improving safety and readiness.

How to Help Our Los Angeles Neighbors

Here in the Bay Area, we are no stranger to the devastation of wildfires. We know the impact that something like this can have on a homeowner, a neighbor, a friend. We also know that as deep an impact the fires in LA are having on those communities, we could just as easily experience the same event right here in the Bay.

We understand that a home is so much more than a physical structure. When a home is lost, so are a lifetime of memories. Our hearts are with all of those impacted by these devastating fires.

If you would like to help our southern neighbors, in addition to larger organizations like the Red Cross, here are a few more ways to do so:

California Fire Foundation works with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide ongoing support to California communities affected by wildfires.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is currently running a campaign to provide support for the firefighters on the ground right now. Donations will directly benefit firefighters with essential tools and supplies needed, including hydration backpacks, emergency fire shelters (which save lives) and wildland brush tools, all of which have an immediate impact on the front lines.
GoFundMe has set up a centralized hub of verified fundraising pages which is strictly vetted by the platform. They’ve also set up their own 2025 Wildfire Relief Fund where all funds raised will go directly to those impacted as well as to nonprofit organizations providing relief on the ground.
World Central Kitchen is a nonprofit global food relief organization that is already in Southern California to aid first responders and evacuees.
Emergency Network Los Angeles provides assistance to people affected by disasters in the area. They represent a network of nonprofit entities in the area, working to promote community welfare and emergency preparation and relief.
Community Organized Relief Effort(CORE) is a global humanitarian organization launched in 2010 in response to the Haiti earthquake. They work with local communities worldwide to provide both short-term and long-term help and recovery, especially in underserved areas.
The Pasadena Humane Society has taken in over 300 animals so far. They are looking for donations of food and water bowls, blankets, and more. They are also seeking people willing to foster animals at this time.
California Community Foundation was founded in 1915 to support Los Angeles communities. The organization serves as a resource for supporting long-term solutions for fire-prone areas. They’ve set up a Wildfire Recovery Fund to help those impacted.

How else can you help?

Have an ADU? Unrented apartment or home? Space to foster some beloved pets? Many Bay Area homeowners have posted on social media, offering their homes and space to house those displaced by the fires—whether family members, friends, friends of friends, and more.

Even if a financial contribution is not an option for you, there are often other ways that we all can help. Have an idea to add? We’d love to hear from you.

Season's Greetings

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2025 from all of us at Red Oak Realty.

Reindeer Games? Here are Some Simple yet Fun Ideas for the Season

The holiday season is a time for connection, celebration, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. Whether you’re looking for simple activities or creative ways to spend quality time together, here are some fun and meaningful ideas to make the most of the season with family and friends.

Holiday Movie Night
Turn your living room into a cozy theater and enjoy classic holiday movies with family and friends. Provide popcorn, hot cocoa, and festive snacks to set the mood. Consider creating a movie lineup with everyone’s favorites, from comedies like Elf to heartwarming classics like It’s a Wonderful Life.

Bake and Decorate Holiday Treats
Gather in the kitchen for an afternoon of baking cookies, cupcakes, or other holiday treats. Decorating sugar cookies with frosting and sprinkles is a fun activity for all ages. Consider holding a “decorating contest” to add a competitive twist and crown the most creative cookie design.

Go on a Festive Light Tour
Explore your neighborhood or drive to a nearby area known for its spectacular holiday lights. Walking or driving through decorated streets can be a magical experience. Bring along thermoses of hot cider or cocoa and play holiday music to enhance the outing. Here are a few spots we know of in the East Bay.

Organize a Craft Night
Get creative with DIY holiday crafts. From making ornaments to creating personalized gift tags, crafting is a wonderful way to bond and create keepsakes. Set up a crafting station with all the necessary supplies, and consider making crafts that double as gifts for others.

Plan a Secret Santa or White Elephant Exchange
Add an element of surprise and laughter to your gift-giving traditions with a Secret Santa or White Elephant exchange. Set a budget to keep it fun and lighthearted. Incorporate quirky or theme-based gift ideas to make the exchange even more entertaining.

Take a Nature Walk
Bundle up and enjoy the crisp winter air with a family walk in a local park or along a scenic trail. Use the opportunity to collect natural elements like pinecones or leaves for holiday decor. Plan your walk around sunset to enjoy the golden hour and maybe even some holiday lights on the way home.

Host a Game Night
Dust off board games, card games, or trivia sets and spend an evening laughing and competing with friends and family. Choose games that suit everyone’s interests and skill levels. Mix in holiday-themed games or trivia to keep the seasonal spirit alive.

Volunteer Together
Give back to your community by volunteering as a group. Whether it’s serving at a local food bank, donating gifts to a toy drive, or helping out at a shelter, sharing the spirit of giving can be a deeply fulfilling experience. Turn it into a tradition and involve younger family members to teach the importance of community.

Host a Holiday Brunch or Potluck
Gather friends and family for a festive meal. A potluck-style brunch or dinner can ease the burden of hosting and allow everyone to share their favorite dishes. Create a holiday-themed menu with items like gingerbread pancakes, cranberry salads, or spiced cider.

Write Holiday Cards Together
Spend an evening writing heartfelt holiday cards to friends, family, and neighbors. Add a personal touch with hand-drawn illustrations or calligraphy. Include a small token like a family photo or a packet of tea to make the cards extra special.

Build a Gingerbread House
Assemble and decorate gingerbread houses as a group activity. You can buy kits or go the extra mile and bake the pieces from scratch. Turn it into a friendly competition with awards!

Storytelling Night
Gather around the fireplace or a cozy living room to share favorite holiday memories, funny anecdotes, or even create new stories together. Use storytelling prompts or books to inspire creativity and laughter.

Plan a Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Set up a scavenger hunt with holiday-themed clues and small prizes. This can be a fun indoor or outdoor activity for kids and adults alike. Incorporate local landmarks or holiday decorations into the hunt to make it more engaging.

The holiday season is about celebrating togetherness and making memories that last a lifetime. These simple and fun ideas can help you connect with your loved ones, whether through creativity, food, or shared experiences. Whatever you choose to do, the most important thing is to enjoy the time spent with those who matter most. Have an idea to include? Reach out!

Earthquake Preparedness: A Guide for the East Bay

Living in the East Bay comes with many advantages: beautiful scenery, vibrant communities, cultural diversity, and much more. As residents we also know that we face the real risk of experiencing earthquakes, and as they say, it’s not a question of if an earthquake will occur, but when. Being prepared can make a significant difference for you and your loved ones. And with all of the recent earthquake activity north of the Bay Area (Tsunami anyone?) this information might be helpful:

1. Understanding the Risk

The East Bay sits along the Hayward Fault, one of the most active faults in California. Scientists estimate a high probability of a significant earthquake occurring in this region within the next few decades. Understanding this risk underscores the importance of preparation, as even a moderate quake can cause considerable damage.

2. Create an Emergency Plan

An emergency plan ensures everyone in your household knows what to do before, during, and after an earthquake:

Discuss Safe Spots: Identify sturdy furniture or structural areas where you can "drop, cover, and hold on."
Communication Plan: Establish a way to contact family members if separated. Text messaging often works better than calls during emergencies.
Evacuation Routes: Know how to safely leave your home or building if necessary.
Meeting Point: Determine a safe place to reunite if you are not together when the earthquake strikes. Many communities designate locations like schools and local churches.

3. Assemble an Earthquake Kit

Your earthquake kit should contain enough supplies to sustain your household for at least 72 hours. Include:

Water: At least one gallon per person per day.
Food: Non-perishable items such as canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits; remember pet food also!
First Aid Supplies: Bandages, antiseptic, prescription medications, and pain relievers.
Tools: Flashlights, batteries, a multi-tool, a whistle, and a manual can opener.
Hygiene Items: Hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, garbage bags, and sanitary supplies.
Important Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and emergency contact information.
Miscellaneous: Items for infants, or anyone with special needs, medications, etc.

Store your kit in an easily accessible location and check it annually to replace expired items.

4. Secure Your Home

Minimize hazards and protect your property by taking the following steps:

Anchor Heavy Furniture: Secure bookshelves, cabinets, and large appliances to walls to prevent tipping.
Use Earthquake Straps: Secure TVs, computers, and other valuable items.
Install Latches: Add safety latches to cabinet doors to keep contents from spilling out.
Brace Water Heaters: Secure water heaters to wall studs to prevent movement and damage.
Check Foundations: Ensure your home’s foundation is reinforced and bolted.

5. Stay Informed

Knowledge is power during emergencies:

Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to local emergency alert systems like Nixle or ShakeAlert for real-time updates. Many Bay Area residents were confused by the recent Tsunami warning following a 7.0 earthquake further north. For detailed information when these occur, you may find this website helpful.
Learn First Aid: Take a basic first aid and CPR course to prepare for potential injuries.
Attend Community Drills: Participate in earthquake preparedness events to practice safety protocols and learn from experts.

6. Practice Earthquake Drills

Regular drills ensure everyone knows how to respond quickly and effectively. Remember the three key steps:

Drop to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.
Cover your head and neck under sturdy furniture or with your arms.
Hold On to your shelter until the shaking stops.

By practicing these steps at home, work, and school it helps to build muscle memory and reduce panic during an actual event.

7. Know What to Do During an Earthquake

When an earthquake strikes, stay calm and follow these guidelines:

Indoors: Drop, cover, and hold on. Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects that could fall.
Outdoors: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
In a Vehicle: Pull over to a safe spot, avoiding overpasses and bridges, and stay inside until the shaking stops.

8. Prepare for Aftershocks

Aftershocks are common and can cause additional damage. Treat them like the main quake and remain cautious. Inspect your home for structural issues, gas leaks, and other hazards before re-entering.

9. Additional Resources

While earthquakes are unpredictable, preparation fosters resilience. By taking proactive steps everyone can mitigate risks and protect what matters most. Preparation can save lives, reduce injuries, and minimize damage. Please share this guide with friends and neighbors to help create a safer, more resilient community for everyone. Questions? Suggestions? We would love to hear from you!

The East Bay is Lit Up! Where to See the Holiday Lights in 2024

December 21st brings the winter solstice; the longest night of the year. This occasion in the seasonal cycle is likely why twinkling lights are such a beloved part of winter celebrations around the world. Whether or not you observe a religious or cultural holiday during this time, everyone can delight in the simple joy and magic that lights bring to these long, dark evenings.

The East Bay has some incredible spots to see them. Here are some of our favorites:

Holiday Circle of Lights, Mountain View Cemetery, December 1-January 1
Mountain View Cemetery continues its tradition with its annual holiday light display. Lights are arranged around the welcoming fountain, beautifully reflected in the water. The seasonal array continues with whimsical characters, and much more. It’s a perfect place for all ages to spend an evening and entry is free.

Christmas Tree Lane, Thompson Avenue, Alameda, December 1-31
A neighborhood effort, the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda is a holiday tradition in its 86th year. Every home on the block puts up a light display, with the evergreen trees in the median illuminated too. You’ll probably see several generations appreciating the sight and reminiscing on previous years. Santa may appear from time to time and also has a mailbox on standby!

LDS Temple on the Hill, Oakland, November 29-December 31
The beautiful light display that the church puts up every year is only one of many seasonal attractions — there will also be a Festival of Trees, musical performances and sing-alongs. You can enjoy it all for free (but will need tickets for some events) and can see the full schedule online, or just stop by at your convenience to take in the scene.

Lights on Fourth Street, Berkeley, November 4-January 1
Lights are far from the only attraction on Fourth Street in Berkeley — there will also be puppet shows, caroling, live music, and a number of workshops (like fused glass ornaments) and a hot cocoa bar. Snap a photo with Santa and Mrs Claus and drop off a new or gently used coat to benefit B.O.S.S. The lights bring people back year after year to walk along the shops, enjoy a good meal and purchase a holiday gift or two.

Carousel, and Steam Train at Tilden Park, Berkeley, weekends, December 6-January 5
There’s nothing like an antique merry-go-round (Tilden Park’s was built in 1911) and the vintage steam train, all decked out for the holidays. Bundle up and prepare for crowds for this magical holiday treat for the whole family to enjoy.

Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo , November 20-January 26
A magical lantern festival featuring hundreds of larger-than-life glowing animal lanterns. Visitors can explore themed displays, including a float down Africa's Nile River, farm visit, hike up the highest peaks, and even a dinosaur exhibit. The experience ends with a train ride through an Avian Odyssey, showcasing feathered friends from parrots to puffins all supporting the zoo's conservation effort.

Picardy Drive in Oakland
Since the Great Depression, a string of homes on Picardy Drive (locally known as Christmas Lane) have celebrated their connection and the neighborhood by linking their homes together with a chain of holiday lights. It’s a tradition so established and ingrained that a documentary was made about it. Neighbors will keep the chain lit until early January.

Fairy Winterland at Children’s Fairyland, Oakland, December 14-30
A magical daytime holiday event that transforms the park into a winter wonderland. This festive celebration features Black Santa, holiday performances, Christmas trees, candle making, and storytelling. Visitors can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and cider, festive music from around the world, and a visit from the Snow Queen.

Sundar Shadi Holiday Display, El Cerrito, December 15-26
This handmade, folk-art Christmas scene is a beloved local tradition that celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. This creation features a life-sized, hand-crafted depiction of Bethlehem, complete with three wise men, camels, sheep, and various other figures. The display is set up on a hillside lot at 7501 Moeser Lane and is illuminated each night from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM during the holiday season. It's a beautiful and unique way to celebrate the season, and it's been a cherished part of the community since 1949.

Widmer World in Pleasanton, December 1-31
It’s a bit of a drive, but if you want to see what it looks like when an individual family goes all-out for the holiday season, then you’ll have to make time for Widmer World. The Widmer family started scaling up their holiday decorations in 1980 and have been adding to the displays ever since. Moving to LED lights in 2000 gave them the ability to really turn it on. Today, their entire property (just under one acre) gets fully lit for the season.

During this season of long chilly nights, it’s always fun to take a cheery tour in the dark - it just might be magical! Do you have an especially festive neighborhood to share? Let us know.

Happy Thanksgiving!

This Thanksgiving, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to you—our clients, colleagues, friends, and family. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey and trusting us with some of life’s most meaningful moments.
We understand that a home is more than just a place; it’s where memories are made, traditions are celebrated, and dreams take shape. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply seeking guidance, our connection with you goes beyond business—it’s a relationship built on trust, care, and a shared sense of community.
From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous Thanksgiving filled with warmth, love, and gratitude. Thank you for being a part of our story!

Give the gift of joy this holiday season

Every child deserves a little holiday magic - and you can help make that happen!

Red Oak has once again joined local businesses in the quest to make sure every child in the East Bay has a toy for Christmas. For 75+ years, over 627 million toys have been donated to children in need.

Please consider donating a new, unwrapped toy to this worthy cause. Collection boxes are currently located at our Montclair, Berkeley, El Cerrito, and San Leandro offices until the end of day on December 10th. Our offices are open 9am-5:30pm M-F.

1575 Hopkins Street, Berkeley
7502 Fairmount Avenue, El Cerrito
6450 Moraga Avenue, Oakland
1031 MacArthur Boulevard, San Leandro

If you’d prefer to donate online, you can do so by choosing either a gift virtually or a monetary donation.

We hope you are inspired to give back, no matter the size of your donation.

Just like Toys for Tots, Red Oak deeply cares for its communities. That’s why we established Red Oak Opportunity Foundation (ROOF), a 501(c) 3 nonprofit charitable organization, to donate funds to organizations throughout the East Bay that aren’t receiving significant funding elsewhere. For every dollar you donate to ROOF from now through Giving Tuesday on December 3, Red Oak will match up to $5,000. One hundred percent of your tax-deductible contributions go to support your local East Bay neighbors. Support our local neighbors by donating to ROOF or reach out to us for more information.

The Basics: Helpful tips for first-time home buyers

Owning a home is a significant milestone. It offers stability, potential for wealth building, investment opportunities, and the freedom to customize your living space. Becoming a homeowner for the first time is exciting and brings new responsibilities. Here are some tips we hope you find helpful:

Maintenance

Owning a home means taking on the responsibility for its upkeep. Regular maintenance is key to preserving the value of your property and avoiding costly repairs.

Inspect your roof, gutters, and downspouts seasonally. Clean gutters prevent water damage to the roof and the structure.
Change air filters regularly in your HVAC system and schedule annual check-ups for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Check for tight connections and plumbing leaks under sinks and around toilets. Fixing potential problems promptly will conserve water and may prevent significant damage.
Use fire-smart landscaping and keep bushes and trees well-trimmed to maintain a defensible space. Keep the area around the house clear of debris and fire hazards.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors frequently and replace batteries as needed. Keep fire extinguishers in accessible locations and maintained regularly.

Financial Considerations

Budget priorities will likely be front and center for new homeowners. Keep an eye on interest rates and check with your lender if you see a refinancing opportunity. Besides the mortgage payment, take some time to go over the items to include when allocating funds.

You may have encountered this during the buying process, but be sure to stay on top of your homeowners insurance, ensuring adequate coverage.
Homeownership can offer potential tax benefits. You may be able to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes on your federal income tax return. Consult a tax professional to understand how these deductions apply to your situation.
Understand your local property taxes and be sure to take advantage of the $7,000 Homeowners Exemption.
Consider home improvements that will increase your home's value and energy efficiency. Implement energy-saving measures like insulation, efficient appliances, and smart thermostats. You might also consider looking at solar options.
It’s always a good idea to have an emergency fund to take care of any unexpected repairs or maintenance costs.

Enjoy your new neighborhood. Get to know your neighbors and stay informed by participating in community events and neighborhood groups.

Owning a home is a rewarding adventure! With thoughtful planning and ongoing attention, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy the benefits of owning your own home. Red Oak has extensive local knowledge and resources and would love to help you get settled, just reach out.

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