October is Home Safety Month: Tips to Protect Your Home and Family
October isn’t just about pumpkins and cozy sweaters. It’s also Home Safety Month! At Red Oak Realty, we know that a safe home is a happy home. Whether you’re a new homeowner, thinking about selling, or just looking to make your current space safer, this is the perfect time to focus on home safety. With several earthquakes in the past couple of weeks, it’s especially important to think about earthquake preparedness along with everyday home safety.
Here are some practical tips:
1. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your detectors could save lives. Make sure every level of your home has working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and test them monthly. Replace batteries at least once a year.
2. Inspect Fire Extinguishers
Having a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and other key areas is crucial. Make sure it’s fully charged and everyone in your household knows how to use it.
3. Secure Doors, Windows, and Heavy Items
Locks aren’t just for front doors. Check that all windows and secondary entrances have sturdy locks. After recent earthquakes, also check that heavy furniture, TVs, and appliances are anchored to walls to prevent tipping.
4. Prevent Falls
Falls are one of the most common household accidents. Keep walkways clear, secure loose rugs, and ensure stairs have sturdy handrails. Night lights in hallways and bathrooms can prevent trips in the dark.
5. Winter Prep
With colder months approaching, inspect your heating system, chimney, and insulation. Make sure space heaters are used safely and never left unattended. Read more about our fall and winter home maintenance checklist by clicking here.
6. Outdoor Safety
Trim trees and bushes near walkways, check for loose railings, and ensure your outdoor lighting is sufficient. This not only prevents accidents but also deters potential intruders.
7. Earthquake Preparedness
Keep an emergency kit with water, food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Identify safe spots in each room, like under sturdy tables or against interior walls. Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills with your family so everyone knows what to do when the ground shakes. More details can be found here.
8. Emergency Planning
Create or update your family emergency plan. Know exit routes, designate meeting spots, and ensure everyone understands the plan. Keep emergency numbers handy.
A safe home is a smart investment and it protects the people who matter most. At Red Oak Realty, we’re committed to helping clients not just find a house, but create a home that supports their lives and goals. Taking small steps this October can make a big difference in safety and peace of mind.
If you’re buying, selling, or investing in real estate, we can guide you to homes with features that keep safety and comfort in mind. Reach out today to learn more about creating a safer home!
Fall Maintenance for Your East Bay Home
Autumn in the East Bay usually means crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and some of the most comfortable weather of the year. This season, we’ve already seen a few early showers, a helpful reminder that cooler, wetter months are right around the corner. Now is the time to get your home ready for shifting conditions and keep it running efficiently all season long.
Clean gutters, downspouts and roof scuppers: Clearing out leaves and debris from the roof’s drainage system prevents water from pooling and causing damage. Compost the organic waste to keep your cleanup eco-friendly.
Inspect the roof ridge and vents: Check for any damage or blockages in these areas. Repairing them early helps maintain your home's insulation, increasing efficiency.
Inspect siding, trim, soffits, and fascia boards: Look for holes or gaps and seal them. This not only prevents pests from entering, it also cuts your home’s energy use by reducing drafts.
Check windows and doors for proper sealing: Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to maintain indoor temperatures. Opt for weatherstripping made from recycled materials.
Clean up garden debris: Remove fallen leaves and branches to deter pests and insects. Use this organic matter to create mulch or compost, enriching your garden sustainably.
Check storm drains near the property: Report any blockages to your city to prevent flooding. Keeping storm drains clear helps local water systems function properly, benefiting the community and the environment.
Test the sump pump: Ensure your sump pump is working properly to prevent basement flooding. Regular maintenance extends its life and ensures efficient operation.
Inspect HVAC system and change air filters: A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, consuming less energy. Replace filters annually with high-efficiency options to improve indoor air quality.
Flush water heater: Removing sediment from your water heater improves its efficiency and longevity, saving energy and reducing your carbon footprint.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Replace batteries and use the test button to confirm these essential devices are working properly.
Check fire extinguishers: The yellow tag attached to your fire extinguishers will tell you the last date of inspection. Make sure they are professionally checked annually and re-charged if needed.
Vacuum the vent hose and check for lint buildup in clothes dryer: Cleaning the dryer vent reduces fire risk and improves energy efficiency. While you’re in the laundry area, clean the washing machine filter too.
Schedule a chimney inspection: If you plan to use your fireplace, make sure it’s safe and efficient. A clean chimney burns more efficiently, reducing your home’s overall environmental impact.
Check for pests and look for possible entry points: Seal any gaps to keep pests out and maintain a comfortable, energy-efficient home. Use natural pest deterrents whenever possible.
Vacuum refrigerator coils: This task helps your refrigerator run more efficiently, conserving energy and extending its lifespan.
Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise: This will move the warm air downward and keep the living areas more comfortable.
By staying ahead of maintenance now, you’ll keep your home safe, comfortable, and efficient throughout the cooler months. If you’d like help with any of these tasks, Red Oak has great resources and we’re happy to share. Just reach out.
Red Oak Realty Community Event Fall Blood Drives
At Red Oak Realty, a simple yet powerful story of a community member’s life-saving blood transfusion sparked a collective mission - the Red Oak Realty Bi-Annual Community Blood Drive. This event embodies the spirit of unity and compassion that defines our East Bay communities. Please sign up and join us!
Wednesday, October 8th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at one of our 2 locations:
1031 MacArthur Blvd, San Leandro · rore.me/sanleandrobd-10-2025
6450 Moraga Avenue, Oakland · rore.me/montclairbd-10-2025
Wednesday, October 15th, from 10 AM to 2 PM
1575 Hopkins Street, Berkeley · rore.me/hopkinsbd-10-2025
Living Green in the East Bay: Eco-Friendly Homes and Neighborhoods
In the East Bay, living green is practical and inspiring. Homeowners are cutting energy use, planting for our climate, and choosing materials that last. These choices bring comfort, savings, and a lighter footprint for our shared environment.
Simple steps that make a big difference
Start with efficiency. LED lighting, smart thermostats, well-sealed windows, and quality insulation improve comfort and help manage utility costs. Consider an electrical panel that is ready for an EV charger and future electrification. If solar fits your roof and budget, it can offset daytime use and support cleaner power at home.
All-electric living
Induction cooking brings fast response and better indoor air. Heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling in one system. Paired with a heat pump water heater, your home can move toward an all-electric approach that is clean, quiet, and easy to maintain.
Outdoor spaces that work with our climate
Native and drought-tolerant plants thrive with modest water and look beautiful through the seasons. Drip irrigation and mulch keep water where it is needed. Rain gardens slow and filter stormwater before it reaches our creeks and the Bay, which protects habitat and reduces runoff. For a friendly guide with placement tips and plant ideas, read our informative blog about rain gardens.
Resilience for hillside and fault-zone living
In many East Bay neighborhoods, seismic upgrades and sensible hardscaping add safety and peace of mind. Fire-wise planting and simple maintenance can also support defensible space without sacrificing curb appeal.
Resources and rebates
Local cities and utilities offer rebates for electrification, water-wise landscaping, and energy upgrades. These programs can lower costs and help you plan projects in a smart sequence. If you want help sorting options, we can connect you with trusted local pros.
How Red Oak shows up for the community
Living green is a community effort, and it is part of who we are. All Red Oak offices are Green Business Certified, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, clean energy, and community values. Our team supports water and energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible purchasing in our day-to-day operations. We believe real estate should care for people and place, and we work to show that with every client and every neighborhood.
If you are exploring an efficient upgrade, planning an EV-ready garage, or simply want a yard that supports pollinators and uses less water, the many small steps add up. Reach out for a quick conversation about high-impact, budget-friendly ideas and local resources that fit your needs.
Note: Buyers and homeowners should verify features and permits, including solar ownership or lease terms and energy performance information.
Staging for Success: 2025 Staging Trends That Help Sell a Home
In the East Bay, where buyers are as diverse as the neighborhoods they shop in, the way a home feels can be just as important as its square footage. At Red Oak Realty, we know that staging is more than arranging furniture. It is about creating a lifestyle that resonates with today’s buyers. With design styles evolving, here are the 2025 staging trends that are helping East Bay homes sell faster and for more.
1. Make the Living Room the Star (and the First Impression)
According to the 2025 Profile of Home Staging by NAR, 37% of buyer’s agents say the living room is the single most important room to stage, followed by the primary bedroom (34%) and kitchen (23%). Why? Because a well-staged living room helps buyers instantly see themselves living in the home, creating that emotional connection that sellers crave. Invest here, and you're investing in the potential for more offers and shorter market time.
2. Embrace Personality - Vintage, Eclectic, Bold
Gone are the days of clinical, neutral staging. In 2025, psychology meets style: buyers are drawn to spaces that tell a story. As Architectural Digest reports, eclectic staging featuring historic or idiosyncratic pieces (a well-loved antique or a bold piece of art) creates a connection.
3. Rich Tones That Resonate
While beige and gray have their place, richer, moodier shades are making waves. Dark olive green kitchens, navy blue bedrooms, and charcoal gray living rooms have been shown to add thousands to resale value, sometimes even surpassing lighter tones, according to House Beautiful. Consider deep accent walls, plush textiles, or statement décor to stay current without overwhelming a space.
4. Layered Texture & Organic Warmth
Buyers often look for a balance of modern style and natural ease. Incorporating linen, jute, wood, and warm metals creates rooms that feel welcoming. Staging with layered textures helps a space feel grounded without being overwhelming. It also reflects our neighborhood’s connection to nature, something buyers often appreciate.
5. Highlight Flexibility
Many buyers want rooms that can do double duty. Staging a corner as a workspace or a spare room as both office and guest space shows adaptability, something East Bay households often prioritize.
6. Use Greenery and Natural Light
Plants never go out of style. Adding greenery, woven baskets, or natural wood accents instantly refreshes a space. Homes in the East Bay benefit from abundant natural light, so staging should highlight windows and sightlines. Buyers want to feel a connection to the outdoors even when they are inside.
Why Staging Matters
Staging consistently helps homes sell faster and for more. Agents nationwide report that buyers are willing to pay up to 10 percent more for a home that is staged well. In the East Bay, where inventory is tight and competition is fierce, staging can be the difference between sitting on the market and receiving multiple offers. We can connect you with expert stagers and agents who understand what East Bay buyers are looking for today. Reach out.
Why working with a local agent puts you at an advantage
A pair of agents help couple find the ‘needle in the haystack’ home
The transaction required upgrading and selling the old home at the same time as upgrading the new home.
Sarah and Mike, longtime homeowners in El Cerrito, faced a dilemma: two children in two different school systems — El Cerrito and Albany. That can be tricky with daily schedules and vacations that don’t mesh. The couple decided in the early fall of 2024 that it was time to find a home in Albany, so that both children could attend school there.
What came next made juggling kids in two different school districts feel like… child’s play.
The couple diligently interviewed several agents, settling on Rachel Melby of the Little Hill Team at Red Oak Realty. Sarah immediately felt a strong connection with Rachel, confident that she was the perfect fit from the start.
Since the couple would be purchasing a house while still owning another, Rachel connected them with a lender to get a home equity line of credit (HELOC). They would need that to help them make a down payment on the new home and prepare their old home for sale, as well as renting another home during the repairs.
Then began their home search in Albany for more space and a second full bathroom. Five discouraging months of searching for a “needle in a haystack” with a limited budget left the couple feeling hopeless. They began to consider staying put, believing their only options were either to make their current situation work, or to downsize to a much smaller home in Albany.
Albany’s competitive housing market, fueled by its sought-after school district, shows no signs of slowing — 27 homes have sold this year as of late May, similar to last year’s 28. The median sales price remains around $1.34 million.
Unlike the broader East Bay, where increased inventory has eased competition for buyers in 2025, Albany homes, like those in Berkeley, consistently attract multiple offers. In the first quarter of 2025, homes sold for an average of 35% over the asking price, a trend continuing into the second quarter at 31%. The challenges were exacerbated by the scarcity of homes for sale in Albany.
Found! Needle in haystack
Fortunately for Sarah and Mike, not only was Rachel Melby actively looking for them, but so was her new team member, Rachel Sheftel. As luck would have it — for them — Rachel Sheftel saw that a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Albany just north of Solano Avenue fell out of contract and was returning to the market, at a transparent price. The listing agent was from out of the area, and the home was owner-occupied, presenting challenges. But both Rachels recognized the urgency of the situation.
Within 90 minutes, Rachel Melby had Sarah and Mike inside the home, and an inspector scheduled for a walkthrough that same afternoon. The home was filled with two decades of belongings, it needed work, and there were no reports or photos available. Despite the awkwardness of inspecting the home with the sellers present, Sarah and Mike were able to look past the cosmetic issues. They got a verbal thumbs-up from the inspector, and considered making an immediate offer.
Sarah was nervous, “I was very scared that we wouldn’t be able to sell our home — we were bootstrapped.” She knew they had to sell their El Cerrito home for a certain price for this plan to work, and that would require significant prep work. They were on a tight budget, it was mid-January, and the market was volatile.
But other agents were making arrangements to show the Albany property that same day. Sarah and Mike needed to move fast. Fortunately, their agent had educated them on market dynamics, pricing strategies and the home-buying process, so they could recognize this rare opportunity.
They were in contract within eight hours.
The drama didn’t end there
The Little Hill Team knew that for the couple to renovate enough to achieve top dollar for their El Cerrito home, they would need to move out right away. Sarah and Mike moved their kids and cats into an Airbnb. With their agents’ local vendor contacts, recommendations, and a trusted contractor, they were able to efficiently work on both properties simultaneously.
Within a month or so, it was time to market their first home. The modern staging included artwork from local artists (who cross-promoted the property), a fun, engaging video, and digital marketing tools to ensure broad exposure. The Little Hill Team expertly transformed the home’s challenges, like close proximity to BART and a busier street, into selling points. The open houses were busy and their El Cerrito home quickly garnered six great offers. It sold for more than Sarah and Mike had ever imagined.
Within months the family moved into their Albany home with a new kitchen and in a much better location for the family. The children are now in the same school. Sarah and Mike are thrilled.
“The best decision I have made in the last eight years was hiring Rachel. She’s absolutely incredible,” Sarah said. Despite the fast pace, excitement, and nerves, “she stayed calm the entire time; we were scared, but we trusted her, and it all worked out in the end.”
Sarah’s advice to others: “Hire a local agent — the Little Hill Team has literally changed our lives!”
Fall Fun in the East Bay: It’s Time to Spice up the Season!
Fall in the East Bay is nearly here—crisp air, turning leaves, and a calendar filling quickly. From lively parades and neighborhood strolls to art, music, and glowing garden nights, these events capture the season’s best. Grab a sweater and get ready to explore.
CASTRO VALLEY FALL FESTIVAL
Sept 6, 10am–6pm & Sept 7, 10am–5pm, Castro Valley Blvd between Redwood Rd & Santa Maria
Live entertainment, arts and crafts, food, and classic cars, along with opportunities to learn about local businesses and community service organizations.
Edenareachamber.com
OAKLAND PRIDE PARADE & FESTIVAL
Sept 7, 11am–6pm, Downtown Oakland (Broadway & 20th St.)
Celebrate Oakland’s LGBTQ community, featuring live music, vibrant performances, and a celebration of equality in the heart of Downtown.
Oaklandpride.org
MONTCLAIR MOVIE NIGHT
Sept 13, 7pm, 6450 Moraga Avenue
Featuring The Wild Robot at dusk.
Montclairvillage.com
OKDROBERFEST
Sept 13, 12pm–6pm, 100 W Juana Ave, San Leandro
Live music, games, and beer at San Leandro’s second annual OkDROberfest celebration.
Downtownsanleandro.com
SOLANO AVENUE STROLL
Sept 14, 10am–5pm, Albany/Berkeley Border
The East Bay’s largest street festival, with a mile of music, entertainment, food, artisans, and family fun celebrating Albany and Berkeley.
Solanoavenueassn.org
PIEDMONT HARVEST FESTIVAL
Sept 21, 11am–3pm, Piedmont Park, 711 Highland Avenue
All your favorites: the Edibles Contest, Jazz Festival, Art Show, Scarecrow Alley, Farmers Market, and food trucks.
Piedmont.ca.gov
EL SOBRANTE STROLL
Sept 21, 11am–4pm, San Pablo Dam Rd between El Portal Dr and Appian Way
A community street fair with a car show, live music, food vendors, and local crafts.
Elsobrantechamber.com
OAKLAND STYLE FESTIVAL
Oct 8–12, Multiple venues, Oakland
A cultural celebration of culinary treats, live music, art, fashion, vintage shopping, and more, spread throughout The Town.
Visitoakland.com/oakland-style/
AUTUMN LIGHTS FESTIVAL
Oct 16–18, The Gardens at Lake Merritt, Oakland
The Autumn Lights Festival is an annual, multi-night fundraiser for the Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt in Oakland, California. The event features artistic light installations created by local artists throughout the Gardens at Lake Merritt, a free, seven-acre collection of themed gardens.
Gardensatlakemerritt.org/autumn-lights-festival-2025/
BERKELEY HARVEST FESTIVAL
Oct 18, 11am–4pm, Cedar Rose Park, Berkeley
A full day of free family fun with live music, kids’ activities, food contests, a seed swap, and booths from City departments.
Berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/events/harvest-festival-2025
EL CERRITO FREE FOLK FESTIVAL
Oct 19, 12–8pm, El Cerrito Community Center
Two stages of live music, workshops, Morris dance, spontaneous jams, and a two-hour children’s program.
Elcerritofreefolkfestival.org
KENSINGTON COMMUNITY CENTER FALL PICNIC
Oct 19, 12–3pm, Kensington Community Center
A Fall Parade led by the CAL Straw Hat Band, followed by music from the Korematsu Jazz Band, local favorite The Great Space Coaster, and Sterling Johnson the Bubblesmith.
Kensingtoncommunitycouncil.org/kcc-events
OAKLAND MUSEUM FALL FRIDAYS
Sept–Oct, every Friday, Oakland Museum of California
Museumca.org
With so many ways to experience the East Bay this fall, why not make it a season to remember? Enjoy the festivities, discover hidden gems, and share your favorite neighborhood spots or event photos with friends and neighbors. Have a favorite local event or go-to spot? We’d love to hear from you.
The Best Value Remains in the Inner East Bay
How Affordable Is Housing Compared to San Francisco, Marin and the Peninsula?
When it comes to Bay Area housing, location makes all the difference, especially when it comes to price. If you’ve been wondering whether the East Bay offers better value than San Francisco, Marin or the Peninsula, here’s a breakdown of affordability across these regions.
Inner East Bay: Vibrant, Diverse and Best Overall Value
The Inner East Bay remains the most affordable option in the Bay Area, with a median home price around $1M. While prices are still high by national standards, buyers find better value here compared to the Peninsula, Marin or San Francisco.
San Francisco: Urban Luxury Comes at a Price
Living in the heart of the city means paying for the privilege. San Francisco’s median home price hovers around $1.8M, making it one of the least affordable markets in California. Limited inventory and strong demand keep prices high, appealing to those who prioritize city living and cultural amenities.
Peninsula: Tech Proximity, Premium Prices
The Peninsula tops the charts for housing costs, with median prices exceeding $1.9M. Proximity to major tech hubs and top-rated schools drives demand, but affordability is scarce as only about 16% of households can afford a median-priced home.
Marin County: Beautiful Landscapes, Premium Prices
Marin County offers a landscape of unparalleled beauty and outdoor recreation. With it’s close proximity to San Francisco, top-rated schools and high quality of life, it’s no surprise that median prices come in around $1.8M.
The Takeaway for Buyers
If you’re looking for a balance of price and lifestyle, the East Bay offers the best opportunity in 2025. It’s still competitive, but with smart strategies and the right agent, homeownership is more within reach than across the bridge. Want to learn more about what the East Bay has to offer? Reach out!
Source: Bridge MLS, Q2 2025.
Have You Heard About 3-2-1 Buydowns?
With current interest rates beginning to ease, now is an opportune moment to explore a 3-2-1 Buydown, a seller- or buyer-funded strategy that temporarily reduces your mortgage rate by 3% in the first year, 2% in the second, and 1% in the third, settling into a fixed rate thereafter.
Why This Matters Right Now:
- Rates are at a 10-month low, currently around 6.58%, the most affordable point since October 2024.
- Refinancing activity is increasing in response, especially among homeowners looking to capitalize on lower rates.
- Economists and agencies anticipate a gradual downward trajectory, with Fannie Mae projecting rates may reach 6.4% by year-end, and further slide to 6.0% in 2026.
- Bankrate surveys reflect optimism, with nearly 70% of experts expecting rates to decline in the short term.
For Buyers: A 3-2-1 Buydown can ease your early monthly payments, giving you time to refinance later if rates continue dropping.
For Sellers: Offering a seller-paid buydown could make your property stand out, particularly in a market where affordability is still a concern.
If you’d like to find out whether a 3-2-1 Buydown is the right move for you, get in touch and we’ll connect you with a lender who can walk you through current options and projections.