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.
This Season, Help Support Our East Bay Communities
People throughout the East Bay are in need and your charitable contribution is more important than ever. The Red Oak Opportunity Foundation (ROOF), has raised and given over $1.5M to local nonprofits which provide services to the unhoused, and supports programs for women, children and teens, among others.
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.
Learn more and donate at www.redoak-roof.org.
Where to Trick or Treat in the East Bay
Often when families are new to the East Bay, finding the best spot to take the kids trick or treating may take a year or two. We’ve compiled a short list of tried and true spots that work especially well for young children. Happy Trick or Treating!
OAKLAND
Haddon Hill
This neighborhood of haunted-looking mansions just west of Lake Merritt is well known for its decorated front stoops, front yard cemeteries and more – a treat for kids of all ages on Halloween. In addition to the decorations, the majestic homes add to the intrigue of this area notorious for going all out on this haunted holiday. We’ve also heard the treats are just as good as the decor!
Trestle Glen
East of Lakeshore Avenue lies a long flat stretch along Trestle Glen Road where houses are close together, ideal for trick or treaters. Trestle Glen is famous for attracting families from all over the East Bay, so it can get crowded on Halloween, but it’s fun, festive and especially great for younger kids and families. Neighborhood parents have been known to have just as much fun socializing as their kids along this route.
PIEDMONT
Waldo Avenue (between Park Way & Blair)
It’s not the longest street in Piedmont, but it is certainly one of the most festive! This street is often a destination for Piedmont families along their trick or treating routes for the home decor alone. After picking up treats on Waldo, make your way down Blair to Dracena Avenue and you’ll be greeted by a street filled with hanging ghosts in the trees, a decades-long tradition for Dracena homeowners.
Ricardo Avenue
On the other side of Dracena Park is one of the most traditionally popular trick or treating spots in Piedmont – Ricardo Avenue. Homeowners and parents escorting their children up and down Ricardo have also been known to dress up, and the pumpkin carvings are traditionally terrific. Include the next two blocks over, York Drive and Manor Drive, and you’ve hit Piedmont’s widely-known Halloween “sweet spot”.
BERKELEY
Mariposa Avenue
This small tree-lined block becomes filled with ghosts, goblins, and superheroes running from home to home with overflowing bags of candy. Known for elaborate decorations, there’s even been a bouncy house adding to the fun in the past. The earlier you go, the easier it will be to find parking nearby.
Russell Street
Known for elaborately decorated graveyards, haunted houses and detailed pumpkin displays is Russell Street in the Elmwood neighborhood. The stretch from College Avenue through to the Claremont Hotel transforms into a popular Halloween destination for Berkeley families and kids from all over the East Bay. Take your youngest on the early side in order to avoid the larger crowds.
In addition to neighborhood trick or treating, many local towns sponsor trick or treating events during the day on Halloween. Be sure to check with your local merchants' association to see where and when these events occur. For starters, a few widely-known trick or treat events take place in Montclair, on Solano Avenue, Piedmont Avenue, Fourth Street and Alameda to name just a few. Be sure to also check out the numerous carnivals, parades, costume contests, and haunted houses as well; there are no shortages of Halloween activities throughout the East Bay.
Happy haunting and Happy Halloween!!
2024 Q3 Market Update
Fall is possibly the most magical season in the Inner East Bay (after the heatwaves, of course). The scent in the air changes, the kids are back in school… and the real estate market roars back to life.
New listings flood the market in the fall, and this year was no exception: in the one week after Labor Day, the number of new listings increased by more than 150%. This creates an unusual dynamic where, suddenly, buyers have many more properties to choose from. And with higher supply - and relatively unchanged demand - key metrics can change, and quickly.
As a result, homes listed in September are more likely to cancel than any other time of the year. We are seeing that trend reveal itself now, and it should likely continue through October and November. It may be particularly exacerbated this year since the Fed cut interest rates at the beginning of the month, but mortgage rates have changed little. Buyers may be waiting for further declines.
Given these factors, sellers and buyers face unique opportunities - and challenges - through the end of the year.
- In many cases, sellers are facing higher levels of competition, so it is more important than ever for a home to look great and feel move-in ready for buyers. A critical marketing tool is the list price: It must be attractive to buyers, too. (As they say, there are no bad properties, only bad prices.)
- Buyers have an increasing amount of power in the real estate transaction, with a high level of inventory to choose from. However, not all homes are made equal, and different buyers’ attention can cluster around the most attractive homes, in the most attractive areas, with the most attractive list prices. Given these dynamics, a buyer should work with their agent to find opportunities in this complex market. Opportunities are still out there!
Want more information? Red Oak’s 75+ page presentation on the current state of the market is very informative. It focuses on the Inner East Bay but includes data throughout the Bay Area. If you’d like a copy, please reach out.
Dev Heyrana: A Celebration of Art and Community
"Inspired by my roots, the people who walk beside me and the ones I'm raising."
Dev Heyrana
Our DEI Action Committee is proud to announce a new exhibit by Bay Area artist Dev Heyrana, an evocative creator known for her vibrant exploration of identity, heritage, and community. Dev is a Bay Area based artist known for her vibrant and evocative works that celebrate the beauty and diversity of the human experience.
Dev's art is deeply rooted in her personal journey and her commitment to social justice. Her pieces often explore themes of identity, resilience, and community, drawing inspiration from her Filipino heritage and her experiences as a woman of color. Through her art, Dev aims to create a space for dialogue and reflection, encouraging viewers to engage with the world around them in a more empathetic and inclusive way. Parents and educators will love the Art Kits, a collaboration with Kehinde Wiley.
Red Oak Realty is committed to community outreach and creating a welcoming environment for all. By hosting this exhibit, we hope to not only showcase Dev's incredible talent but also to inspire our clients and colleagues to embrace the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We believe that art has the power to bring people together and spark meaningful conversations.
We invite you to visit the exhibit at our El Cerrito office and experience the transformative power of Dev Hayana's art. We hope this exhibit will leave a lasting impression and encourage you to join us in our ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable community.
We welcome other artists who might be interested in showing their work in one of our offices. If you or someone you know would like to share art with us, or if you want to be notified about upcoming exhibitions, please reach out. We are eager to support and highlight diverse voices and talents in our community.
Fall Maintenance for Your East Bay Home
Autumn in the East Bay brings some of the best weather of the year. It’s a perfect time to assess your home’s condition and prepare for the cooler months ahead.
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 following these home maintenance tips, you’ll be well-prepared for the cozy season. If you’d like help with any of these tasks, Red Oak has great resources and we’re happy to share. Just reach out.
How to Help Protect Your Home from Earthquakes in the East Bay
This month marks the 35th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake. This 6.9 magnitude earthquake on the San Andreas Fault was a violent one, killing 63 people and injuring almost 4,000. Damage was close to $6 billion (equivalent to about $14 billion in today’s economy). It serves as an eerie reminder to those who experienced it firsthand, and a good reminder to all Bay Area residents to be, and stay prepared.
Living in the East Bay, earthquake preparedness is essential due to the region’s proximity to another major fault line, the Hayward Fault. Here's how to help protect your home and stay safe.
- Secure Heavy Furniture: Anchor bookshelves, cabinets, and large appliances to walls using straps or brackets. This prevents them from toppling over during an earthquake.
- Reinforce Your Home’s Structure: If you live in an older home, consider retrofitting to improve its earthquake resistance. This may include bolting your house to the foundation and reinforcing or bracing walls. Reach out for recommendations on local companies that specialize in earthquake retrofitting.
- Retrofit Your Chimney: If you have a fireplace, and therefore a chimney, it’s important to secure your chimney in the case of an earthquake. An unsecured chimney can cause significant damage both during and after an earthquake. Some homeowners in the East Bay elect to remove their chimneys (and fireplaces) altogether as both a safety and an environmental decision.
- Install Flexible Gas Lines: Earthquakes can cause gas leaks, which may lead to fires. Flexible gas lines are less likely to break during shaking, providing an added layer of safety. If your home has standard gas lines, make sure you know how and where to shut the gas off in case of a large earthquake.
- Secure Water Heaters: Strapping your water heater to the wall helps prevent it from tipping over, which could cause leaks or fires. It’s always a good idea to ensure that straps remain intact over time.
- Secure Overhead Fixtures: Often forgotten, large or heavy light fixtures should be braced for safety.
- Create an Emergency Kit: Stock essentials like food, water, and first aid supplies for at least three days. Include flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio for staying informed.
By taking these precautions, you can help safeguard your home and loved ones from the impact of earthquakes. If you have questions or need suggestions for local vendors, please reach out - we’d love to help.
Home Inspections in the East Bay - Why They Matter and What They Tell You
When considering buying a home in the East Bay, questions about the property’s condition are inevitable. Is that strange rattle coming from the furnace a red flag? Will the insurance company provide a policy? Are there hidden issues that could lead to costly repairs down the road?
A professional home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. It provides critical insight into a home's condition, helping you make informed decisions and avoid surprises down the road. It may even give your agent negotiating leverage.
California doesn’t require inspectors to hold a license, but they are regulated under the California Trade Practice Act. When choosing a home inspector, look for one affiliated with a reputable organization like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), which holds its members to high standards of practice and offers important protections like education opportunities and errors and omissions insurance. Your agent should also recommend trusted inspectors they’ve worked with.
What is the best type of home inspection?
Your agent will probably suggest a general home inspection. This is a thorough, visual evaluation of a property conducted by a certified inspector. It gives buyers a clear picture of the home’s overall condition, identifying any potential issues, from structural concerns to system functionality.
A professional inspection equips buyers with a comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition. In a region like the East Bay, where the market can be fast-paced and competitive, an inspection could help you negotiate for repairs, request seller credits, or even adjust your offer based on the findings.
It may be tempting to rely on the inspection(s) provided by the seller with the disclosures. By investing in your own inspection, you’ll receive an up-to-date report prioritizing your own interests.
What’s typically covered in a general inspection?
- Structural components: Foundation, walls, and the overall integrity of the structure.
- Exterior components and systems: Siding, windows, doors, gutters, and drainage.
- Interior components and systems: Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, plus electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
- Roofing: Condition of the roof, any structural defects, signs of damage, or potential leaks.
It’s important to note that the inspector can only comment on what they see. If a space is inaccessible, further investigation is usually a good idea. You may want to also engage an inspector who specializes in roofing or chimney systems for example.
Get involved in the process
The inspection is a great way to get better acquainted with the house. What maintenance issues are most likely to come up and when should you plan for them? Like all long-term relationships, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into and let those spontaneous questions arise,
- Schedule early: Plan your inspection well in advance of the closing date to allow time for any necessary repairs or negotiations.
- Be present: If possible, accompany the inspector during the inspection to ask questions and better understand any issues that are identified.
- Review the report carefully: Take the time to review the inspection report thoroughly. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact the inspector for clarification.
Understanding the Report
Your inspector’s report will differentiate between major repairs and routine maintenance. Serious concerns, such as foundation damage, a failing roof, or outdated electrical systems, could have a significant impact on the home’s value, insurability, and the sale negotiations. On the other hand, smaller issues like minor leaks or cosmetic flaws are often simple to fix and shouldn’t derail the transaction.
Home inspections are essential for gaining peace of mind and a full understanding of the home you’re buying. Here in the East Bay, there are plenty of qualified local inspectors. Your Realtor has relationships with the best in the business, and is happy to provide a recommendation. If you have more questions, just ask - we’d love to help.
Red Oak Opens New Office in San Leandro!
On Thursday, September 12th, the Red Oak community gathered with clients, neighbors, colleagues, and friends to celebrate the opening of Red Oak’s new office in San Leandro. Located at 1031 MacArthur Boulevard, Red Oak recently partnered with Varos Real Estate to better position ourselves in a market where both our agent and client bases are rapidly growing.
Serving the communities of San Leandro, Castro Valley, Hayward, and beyond, our new office not only gives Red Oak agents who live in the area a closer home-base, it also positions us to provide even greater services and expertise in the adjacent communities.
We are grateful for the warm welcome by both neighbors and adjoining businesses, and look forward to being an active member of the community. Be sure to stop by the next time you’re in the area!
Red Oak now has offices in El Cerrito, Berkeley, Oakland and San Leandro. Reach out with any real estate related questions or needs; we’d be more than happy to help you. Need an agent? Reach out! We’d be happy to match you with someone who is best equipped to meet your needs.