Recently I attended a 90th birthday party for a woman who raised her family across the street from my husband’s family in San Francisco’s Outer Mission district. Held at a park in Novato, there were more than 100 people attending, including her children and their spouses/significant others, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, neighborhood friends, and others I couldn’t begin to identify. Growing up within a few city blocks of each other, my Irish husband and in-laws reunited with childhood neighbors from El Salvador, Hawaii, Samoa, China, Mexico, and Italy, to name a few. People who in some cases hadn’t seen each other in decades, immediately bonded over shared memories and experiences.

My childhood was vastly different, but at the same time very much the same. At age 9 I moved with my family to Napa, long before Napa was synonymous with fine wines and chic living. My mother was involved in the exchange-student program through Napa Community College, where she was involved with students from across the country and from Africa, the Middle East and Western Asia. Because they were living so far away from their families, my mother invited them over for all the big American holidays. A typical Thanksgiving or Christmas or Fourth of July included my parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles and about 8 or 10 students from around the globe. Some four decades later, many of these former foreign students are still family friends.

These experiences have taught us that as different as our cultural expectations are, people everywhere really want the same things: acceptance, friendship, respect and inclusion.

Posted by:  Deborah Byrne

The beautiful, diverse geography of the North Bay makes it ideal for a variety of adventures of all types. Though cave exploring doesn’t always spring to mind when considering an outing, the type done in the Wine Country is one of our favorites. No need for headlamps, carabineers, rope, or an REI shopping spree for these cave expeditions: as it turns out, the only thing one needs is a dinner or tour reservation at the right winery.

Photo taken by George DeMet	Photo taken by Q Speaks

Caves are ideal for aging and storing wine because they create the perfect environment of cool temperatures and high humidity. The practice dates back to ancient Rome, at least, and caves have long since been used in Sonoma County and are often stops on winery tours. However, for a unique Wine Country outing, try visiting one of the few wineries that open their caves for a more intimate experience: private tours and special dinners. The caves offer a certain mystique – dark ambiance, natural surroundings, cascading water – paired with candlelight, and of course, the purveyor’s selection of fine wines.

Bella Vineyards Wine Cave  Photo taken by star5112

Gundlach Bundschu: At 2:00pm daily, Gundlach Bundschu offers a Harvest Tour and Cave Tasting. This hour-long experience takes you through their winemaking process and ends with a seated tasting in their barrel cave.

 Jarvis: Jarvis does more than just store wine in caves – the entire winemaking facility is run inside the 45,000 square feet of cave tunneled into the Vacas Mountains and tasting tours are available daily by appointment.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Have you always wanted to know the chemical content of well water? Do you have a crying need to know the top five pests that might harm a Heritage oak? Are you craving a cram course in the finer points of a septic system? Then consider the possibility of owning country property.

Country property can be described as 100 acres of hillside, 4 acres of pasture land, or even a half acre on a well and septic system. Sonoma County has lots of country property – in fact, I understand that more properties in Sonoma County are on a well and septic system than are on public water and sewer. It can be daunting if you are unfamiliar with the concepts, but the rewards of country living can be well worth the extra attention to details. If you have a yen for gardening, a passion for horses, or simply a desire to have a bit of elbow room, country property can be your oasis in a busy world.

In addition to the usual pest and home inspections of residential property, country property may also entail inspecting and testing wells, pumping and inspecting septic systems, arborists’ evaluations of trees, evaluations of hillside soils and stability, confirmation of boundary lines, and investigations of easements, to name but a few. It is generally important to review the permit history with the County, and to understand the zoning restrictions and allowable uses of a particular property. Once you’ve done your homework, with the proper guidance from an experienced Realtor, of course, the satisfaction of living in your own little piece of paradise can be a dream come true.

If you want to explore the option of country property – or any other property in Sonoma or Napa Counties, please give me a call at 707-484-4045.

Posted by:  Deborah Byrne

You may not be aware, but Sonoma County has a fully-functioning airport located in Santa Rosa where you can hop on a plane and head to Seattle, Portland, Las Vegas or LA, without the hassle of dealing with the San Francisco or Oakland airports. While we know there’s more than enough to do right here in our backyard (our 100 Reasons are just a start), it is nice to escape every now and again, and even nicer without taking the Airport Shuttle for two hours or paying for Park n’ Fly.

Aside from catching your flight, the Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport is actually a destination in and of itself. You can head over to the Sky Lounge, open 7-days a week, and watch private jets, hot air balloons, helicopters and other aircraft come and go. With an outdoor patio located along the runway, you’ll be up close for the action. And trust us; this isn’t your normal airport fare. The Sky Lounge is an American style steakhouse with a delicious dinner menu, affordable lunch and delightful breakfast. There’s even a raw bar. In fact, the only peanuts you’ll see are the comic strips, statues and other memorabilia decorating the airport in honor of its namesake.

And once a year, aviation buffs from all over descend on the Charles M. Schulz Airport for the Pacific Coast Air Museum’s Wings Over Wine Country Air Show, the largest air show in Northern California. Visitors to the Air Show can actually climb aboard a jet fighter, walk through a cargo plane, and get close up to historical aircraft, as well as enjoy kid friendly events and a car show. The 2010 Air Show includes flight demonstrations from the US Air Force’s F-15E “Strike Eagle” team, the US Navy’s F/A-18F “Hornet” team, and many others, plus an aerobatic racing challenge. You can read more about the 2010 Wings Over Wine Country Air Show in the Santa Rosa Press Democrat.

In addition to the Air Show, the Pacific Coast Air Museum operates both an indoor museum with exhibits, photos and artifacts, as well as an outdoor museum with contemporary and antique aircraft on display – some of which you can even climb aboard. Docent tours are open to school children and there are also additional classes and activities.

Sonoma County is an amazing spot for those interested in aviation – both the history, as well as modern commercial flights. And if you really want to be a part of the action, you can even attend flight school.

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Photos taken by Jack Snell

Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

The California Wine Country is known for world-class winemaking, artisan food purveyors, gorgeous vineyard landscapes and local harvest. However, it’s not all just easy country living, and if you’re looking for a way to cut loose on a Friday or Saturday night, downtown Santa Rosa makes for a wonderful North Bay destination. Also known as the Arts District, this thriving downtown was named one of California’s best mid-sized city downtown areas in 2007. With the many dining, art, and night life options available, it’s easy to see why. On one side of the Mall and 101, you’ll find just about every flavor of restaurant: Thai, Indian, Italian, French, California fusion and more in a picturesque setting with the iconic Art Deco Barnes and Noble building and plenty of shopping.

On the other side of the Mall and 101 is Railroad Square, anchored with the beautiful and historic Hotel LaRose. There are more dining options with award-wining restaurants, plus shopping and entertainment. One great entertainment option is the Summer Nights Street Party, held the first Friday of the summer months. For year-round options, check out Aroma Roasters, which offers café style live music along with killer peanut butter pie and great teas and coffee. Or try the Last Day Saloon, with its club atmosphere that features music ranging from 80s to Rock to Blues.

Both locations offer a charming downtown area with trees, art sculptures, and of course, Snoopy and the Gang.

Hungry the next morning? Be sure check out the Omelette Express, where the humorous gentleman who takes reservations makes the 20-minute wait totally worth it, even before you get to the delicious food.

You can also follow Downtown Santa Rosa on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date with what’s happening.

Do you have a favorite destination in downtown Santa Rosa? Let us know in the comments.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

When the simple question of “Where should we go to breakfast?” comes up, two places come to mind without the slightest hesitation: Dierk’s Parkside Café and Water Street Bistro. If you’re looking for the best breakfast in Sonoma County, look no further than these two local gems.

Dierk’s Parkside Café
I describe this place to friends as “dinner service at breakfast.” It’s an unassuming place, although they have expanded into an adjacent space so it’s not so diner-y as it once was. There’s a counter that looks into the kitchen where you will see the chefs in their kitchen whites—at breakfast! Servers are polite, remember specials off the top of their heads, make great conversation and move gracefully through the place making it so inviting to the breakfast guests. Coffee cups are big with strong, delicious brew.  The food, well, is absolutely amazing. A few items on the recent menu included:

• Warm poached egg salad—two poached eggs on a bed of local mixed greens, chopped bacon, fresh herbs, potatoes, croutons and tomatoes with herb dressing.
• Sonoma Duck Confit with potato hash, scrambled eggs, toast and warm apples.
• Biscuits and gravy
  
• Heuvos Rancheros, oh and ….
• Country Benedict—warm crispy baguette, covered with scrambled eggs, bacon, mushrooms, spinach, oven dried tomatoes and hollandaise—YUM!!!!

Seriously, do not miss this place.

Dierk’s is open 7am-2pm daily; Brunch is served on Saturday and Sundays; Breakfast and lunch served daily till 2pm.

Location: 404 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa

Water Street Bistro
Another favorite, located at the end of Western Ave at Water Street in Petaluma, Water Street Bistro is a homey, hometown breakfast spot with the feel of your mom’s kitchen. Lots of freshly baked pies, quiches, savory breakfast tarts, pastries, and scones are all out on display and not more than an hour or so from the oven. The chef/owner Stephanie decides on the fly what will be on the menu that day and goes with the seasons when it comes to what she’ll be baking that morning. You will always have the freshest and the most delicious meal with anything you order here. Savory or sweet, she’s got something delicious for you to eat. She’s up and at ‘em at 5am and doesn’t stop all day. Situated along the Petaluma River, boaters visiting the area have told me that upon waking in the Petaluma’s turning basin, they thought someone was on board baking right in their galley! Locals and visitors love it. Be sure you have time to savor the experience. It’s a small kitchen space and limited prep area so relax and enjoy.

Water Street Bistro is open Monday-Friday from 7:30am – 3:30pm, and closed Tuesdays. Weekend hours are 8am-4pm on Saturdays and 8:30am-2:30pm on Sundays.

Location: 100 Petaluma Blvd. North – Petaluma

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

Photo taken by RobW

This time of year is when Mother Nature puts on one of her most spectacular shows – the Perseid meteor showers, which are predicted to bring as many as 60 or more meteors an hour streaking across the night’s sky during its peak, August 12 and 13. And what better place to watch the show than Sonoma County? With very little light pollution and plenty of secluded beaches, parks and campgrounds, it’s the perfect viewing area.

You don’t need to know a lot about astronomy to watch the shower. In fact, the meteors appear in all parts of the sky and this year’s shower will also peak under a moonless sky, making for an impressive show viewable from most locales. However, our Sonoma County clear, dark sky is sure to present the perfect canvas. So, grab a lawn chair, some caffeine and a blanket, and enjoy the show. The hours before dawn are the most active times, so your best bet may be to find a campground near the beach at Goat Rock or somewhere else isolated from city lights. Need some more tips? Here’s what NASA has to say.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

In the North Bay, our wonderful topography offers an incredible terrain for cycling, running and hiking. In addition, the coastal backroads present terrific routes for day trips by car. Known by many but sometimes forgotten by locals, Highway 1 is a treasure. On a lazy Saturday morning, you can get up, jump in the car (make sure you have fuel), and head out to Highway 1 to enjoy the views and unique sights.

If you want to turn your scenic drive into a day of sightseeing or activities, there are plenty of stops along the coast. Starting in northern Sonoma, you can admire the many “Sea Ranch” style homes in Sea Ranch, known for their modern, sustainable appearance and built to have minimal visual impact on the natural landscape. Fort Ross, celebrating its bicentennial in 2012, is a great stop for history buffs, and both Shell Beach and Goat Rock provide excellent walks and hiking trails. At the right time of year (January through May), you can go whale watching at Bodega Head, as more than 20,000 gray whales migrate past the Sonoma Coast each year.

Oh, and is your journey making you hungry? Check out the dining options on Highway 1 – from Indian food to burgers to award-winning dining – you can find it on this beautiful route.

And if after all this you’re not ready to drive back home, Salt Point offers fantastic camping, and there are a number of quaint Bed and Breakfast options.  

Who needs to get their kicks on Route 66 when you’ve got Highway 1 in your backyard?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Joe Cool, Game, Set, Match – Made by Frank Howard Allen Santa Rosa agent Jeanie Olson – and one of 94 statues created for a 2007 tribute to Peanuts creator Charles Schulz.

Many of us grew up reading the Peanuts comic-strip. As kids, we all identify with the characters…whether having a Charlie Brown moment when we try but fail again, or dreaming we are Snoopy and setting out on a fabulous adventure. As adults, we see the cast of characters from a larger perspective and understand how they can at once represent our inner child, teach us a life lesson, and make us smile. Peanuts creator Charles Schulz was a genius and brought those beloved characters to life for nearly 50 years. His body of work and the reach he had throughout this world is unparalleled (his Peanuts comic strip was read by 355 million people during its peak and he is the only American comic strip artist to be honored with a retrospective at the Louvre in France).

Which is why it’s no wonder that his influence is felt throughout Santa Rosa and Sebastopol, where Schulz lived and worked for most of his career. The Sonoma County airport is named for him, the library at Sonoma State University is named in honor of Schulz and his wife Jean, and one cannot miss the “people-size” statues of the various Peanuts characters sprinkled around Santa Rosa– but nowhere is his spirit more alive than Hardies Lane, located two blocks from his art studio and home to the Redwood Empire Ice Arena (also called Snoopy’s home ice, Schulz would walk from his studio to the rink for meals at the Warm Puppy Café) and the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, which opened in 2002.

We are fortunate to have this fabulous, dynamite and ever-evolving museum and research center in our community. The museum is small in scale but rich in content; you can walk through at a quick pace or stop to enjoy the nuances. One special treat is the two-story-high mural Charlie Brown, Lucy and the Football, which is a mosaic of a classic Charlie Brown scene made from over 3,000 Peanuts strips printed on ceramic tiles. Another unique item is a wall from Schulz’s Colorado Springs home on which he painted a mural for his daughter in 1951. The wall was later discovered by subsequent owners, resurrected and carefully relocated to the museum. In addition to permanent exhibits, there are opportunities to see other established and up-and-coming cartoonists on the second Saturday of every month. There are also Museum Mondays, which are special mornings for children aged 1-5 that take place the fourth Monday of each month from March through September and every Monday from October through February.

The Schulz family has been so very generous in their support of local efforts in education, the environment and social areas. The museum and Schulz’s legacy are a big point of pride for our area and add to the special quality of where we live.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Oh, the never ending list of things to do, see, hear, eat in Petaluma! Wednesday, August 4 will be no exception. The Baker Creek Seed Bank will host the food journalist Paul Greenberg, author of “Four Fish: The Future of the Last Wild Food” as he discusses his latest book. Notably, this past week, Greenberg’s book was the featured review in Sunday’s New York Times’ Book Review.

Greenberg will discuss his views on the four fish that dominate the food market today. His award-winning books and articles have received wide acclaim and he promises to be a dynamic and thought provoking speaker. Copperfields’ Books will co-sponsor the event and it promises to draw a big crowd. The speaker begins at 6:30 and the event is free.

The Baker Creek Seed Bank opened in June in a historic building in Petaluma, originally home to Sonoma County Bank (circa 1926) and offers one of California’s largest selections of organic and heirloom seeds – 1,200 varieties in all – as well as traditional gardening products. You just have to enter this mammoth building, housing thousands of packets of tiny seeds to get the juxtaposition. Rain or shine, it’s a heck of a good time. According to store manager Paul Wallace, Baker Creek chose to locate to Petaluma because 50% of its California mail-order customers live within a one-hour radius of the Central Petaluma location at E. Washington and Petaluma Blvd. North.

The LA Times and The Huffington Post both cite the unique pairing of a former bank with the location of the seed bank. Even Fast Company, the magazine with a focus on the most creative individuals sparking change in the marketplace, notes that unlike the bank that stood in its place prior, Baker Creek is thriving.

The Baker Creek Seed Bank is at 199 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, (707) 509-5171. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; closed Saturday.

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

Mark your calendars for yet another outstanding Petaluma Event – the 3rd Annual Petaluma Music Festival, August 7 at the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds. Get ready for some smokin’ hot bluegrass, blues, rock and shenanigans. This annual event has morphed into a world class music festival featuring local brews, wines and specialty foods as well as a silent auction. All proceeds will benefit Petaluma Schools’ music programs.

The Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds is the site of the event and the entire family is invited. The large grassy area is perfect for picnicking and dancing around to this year’s bands. Some of this year’s line-up includes Poor Man’s Whiskey, the Bay Area’s outlaw blues, bluegrass, folk, punk rockers who have been playing the Festival scene for years. Trombone Shorty, born and raised in New Orleans, brings his own brand of music to the stage this year. He describes his style as ‘supafunkrock’ and will surely WOW the crowd. ALO, are taking a pause as the opening band for Jack Johnson on his world tour and are signed to Jack’s record label, Brushfire Records.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For more information and a complete lineup of bands and participants, go to petalumamusicfestival.org.

And as always, check out the latest and greatest goings on in Petaluma at visitpetaluma.com.

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

I am often asked “what’s it going to take to sell my home in this market?” My answer: take the advice of your local realtor and live by the rule of the three P’s: preparation, price and patience.

Preparation: Much like any profession, i.e. an auto body, paint shop, tax preparer, or a professional athlete, being prepared for the main event is crucial to a successful outcome. An auto body paint shop will not just paint your car the way you bring it to them off the street – they need to perform hours of preparation prior to your car entering the paint boot. The same rule should apply to your home prior to going on the market for sale. Curb appeal is often overlooked because sellers focus most of their attention on the interior of their home.

A fresh or recently painted exterior is very helpful (please consult your local painter on color choices and remember that your selection should be chosen to please the masses – no cotton candy pink, lime green, baby blue or neon yellow, please!). Nicely manicured landscaping with colorful vegetation is very helpful too. Be sure to keep walkways leading to the front door trimmed – it doesn’t help when potential buyers have to fight their way through overgrown landscaping just to make it to the front door. Have your windows cleaned (both interior and exterior sides).

Now that you have curb appeal, you’ll want to keep the momentum going once the buyer steps foot into your home. A clean home free of clutter and personal paraphernalia is the key to your success. Having freshly painted interior walls (or touched-up walls if your paint is in good condition) is very helpful. If you’re going to add color, please consult an interior designer or professional painter (I often see interior paint jobs that “glow” or completely clash causing the buyers to run out of the house like they’ve seen a ghost). Flooring is also important – if your carpet is dated, stained or worn out it needs to be replaced (or at least professionally cleaned). Hardwood is very appealing so even if it needs to be refinished you’ll get a good return on your investment.

Repairs are also important to consider. A pest inspection should be performed and Section 1 items need to be repaired (i.e. dry rot, fungus damage, termites, etc.). A home inspection is not a bad idea either. If you can repair the defects it will make the escrow process a lot smoother (buyers prefer to move into a home that does not have a bunch of repairs that need to be made).

Price: Far too many times I hear the same story from my colleagues – “I spent hours researching the market and providing comparable data to my client and they insist that their home is worth more than the price I have suggested!” Your Realtor should have physically previewed your competition – not just data from the MLS (Multiple Listing Service). Often times family members, co-workers, friends and neighbors influence sellers regarding pricing strategy, which leads to an overpriced listing. An overpriced home usually ends up selling for less than a home that was priced by your Realtor because you end up chasing the market down. Pricing your home to sell quickly is key because the longer your home sits on the market the lower it’s going to end up selling. (If you don’t receive an offer in the first few weeks you should consider adjusting the price). Keep in mind that after three or four weeks on the market your home will begin to lose attraction.

Patience: The average sales cycle is about 100 days (from the time your home goes on the market to the time escrow closes). Please be patient and remember that your home will eventually sell. Gone are the days of buyers following the “For Sale” sign installers around and writing offers on the trunk of Realtor’s cars. If your home has curb appeal, is well-maintained and free of repairs, and is priced to sell, it will eventually sell. 

Posted by:  Doug Hecker

And a Sea Captain and Firemen and even a Mermaid – all of them masterfully assembled with brightly colored pieces of — junk.  

The genius behind the creations is Sebastopol artist Patrick Amiot, and thanks to his admiring neighbors who asked to display his work in their front yards, Florence Avenue in Sebastopol has become known as “the art street.” 

Natives of Canada, Amiot and his wife and fellow artist, Brigitte Laurent, have created hundreds of fabulous, environmentally-friendly sculptures. In addition to those on Florence Avenue, they also grace areas of Sebastopol, are exhibited at art galleries, and have even played a role in raising money for community schools.  

As Patrick states on their website: “‘The whole purpose of my work is to glorify these objects, because they have their own spirit. When a hubcap has traveled on a truck for millions of miles, and has seen the prairies in the winter and the hot summer asphalt, when it’s done traveling with that truck and finds itself in the scrap yard and I find it, I kind of like to use that. This hubcap, or whatever piece of metal, from the day it was manufactured until now, has an important history. And I like to think the spirit of all these things lived incredible lives. If they could talk to you, they could tell amazing stories. That’s something I don’t want to hide.’”  

As we mentioned in reasons # 10, 20, 22 and now here in #28, we’re fortunate to have access to an amazing art scene, from priceless masterpieces from the world’s great artists to homegrown creations made from toasters and hubcaps.

Have you been to Florence Avenue? What’s your favorite piece?

Check out Patrick Amiot on Flickr. (Photo credits: Karen Foley)

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, Bodega Photo via flickr

Part of what we love about the North Bay is the movie culture. What other part of the country can boast the number of film festivals that are offered in Marin and Sonoma alone, from the smaller scale Sebastopol Documentary Film Festival to the Sausalito, Tiburon and Sonoma Valley festivals, to what is probably the most well-known, the Mill Valley Film Festival. These events draw luminaries, film buffs, critics and casual fans alike.

And though hundreds of miles from Hollywood, the North Bay has played its own part in dozens of movies. Films such as Peggy Sue Got Married, The Birds, Basic Instinct, American Graffiti, and Scream have used our beautiful streets and scenic landscapes as backdrops. Perhaps because we are hundreds of miles from Hollywood, the Bay Area is also the chosen home of such production companies as Lucas Film and Pixar.

It’s no wonder then that one of summer’s most popular activities in the North Bay is Movies in the Park. Instead of the house lights dimming, we experience the sun setting and, if we’re lucky, a falling star or two. There’s no 3D, no giant IMAX screen. Just friends, neighbors, and – depending on where you go – live music, children’s entertainment, wine parings and bottomless popcorn.

Summer’s in full swing. If you haven’t yet enjoyed a film under the stars, check out this list of locations, grab a blanket, and relish one of the North Bay’s great summer treats.

Annual Summer Fun Film Festival (Gundlach Bundschu in Sonoma)
August 7: Swingers
Music starts at 7 pm; Movie begins at dusk
VIP tickets include picnic dinner, reserved seating and a bottle of wine

Pictures on the Crush Pad (Moshin Vineyards in Healdsburg)
July 24: The Blues Brothers
August 14: Blue Hawaii
$20 admission includes a glass of wine and bottomless bag of popcorn; chairs provided

Petaluma Movies in the Park (Lucchesi Park)
July 23: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
July 30: Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
Free event; live entertainment, children’s activities and refreshments
6:30; movie starts at dusk

Summer Nights on the Green (Windsor)
July 27: Tooth Fairy
Aug 3: Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Aug 10: Avatar
Movie starts 15 minutes after sunset

Film Night in the Park (Marin County & San Francisco)
July 23: The Blob (San Anselmo)
July 24: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (San Anselmo)
July 30: Fantastic Mr. Fox (San Anselmo)
July 31: Jaws (San Anselmo)
August 6: Napoleon Dynamite (San Geronimo)
August 7: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (San Francisco, Dolores Park)
August 13: The Worlds Fastest Indian (San Anselmo)
August 14: Mamma Mia (San Anselmo)
August 20: Notorious (San Anselmo)
August 21: Coraline (San Anselmo)
August 28: Rear Window (San Francisco, Union Square)

Additional movies in September: 16 Candles, Up, Avatar, Alice in Wonderland, Amelie, Wall-e, The Big Lebowski

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Photos by: Karen Foley

Though a young state, California enjoys a rich and fascinating history, much of which can be explored right here in the North Bay.

One place to start is Petaluma. At 152 years old, Petaluma is one of California’s oldest cities and boasts a well-preserved historic downtown area that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Petaluma offers a wonderful historical walking tour of this area, which includes a stop at the location of what was originally the world’s only chicken pharmacy. (According to tour information, the pharmacy was featured in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not and National Geographic, and dispensed 50,000 pills daily.) It’s also worthwhile to visit the “A” Street Historic District, a six-block area near the historic downtown which takes you past an eclectic mix of homes and churches built between 1860 and 1925 where you can enjoy Petaluma’s beautiful Victorian homes. Visiting the historical homes and landmarks of this delightful city provides great insight into its early years.

Photos by: Karen Foley

Santa Rosa is another place one can explore California history. There’s the Railroad Square District on the west side of town that can take you back a century to the days of the Northwestern Pacific Railroad which bisected Sonoma County. Also worthwhile are the neighborhoods of St. Rose, with a combination of historic homes and commercial buildings, and Cherry Street, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Santa Rosa. On Cherry Street you’ll find historical homes that range from the charming Queen Anne style to stately Colonial Revivals.

For more information about historic attractions in the North Bay, check out these sites. If you have a site of historic interest to recommend, please let us know about it.

Visit Petaluma

The City of Santa Rosa

Historic Homes of Healdsburg Walking Tour

Mission San Rafael Arcangel

Sonoma State Historic Park

Jack London State Historic Park

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Is seller financing right for me?

7220 Hayden, Sebastopol

Seller financing can be complicated, so I recently asked my favorite lender, Megan Sovel, of Blue Oak Mortgage about the benefits of seller financing. In her usual gracious style, Megan explained seller financing for me and truthfully, there’s no reason to change up her explanation.

Seller financing IS currently permitted on Conventional Financing, given the terms and borrower qualifications conform to all of the lender’s guidelines. In short, the benefit of seller financing in today’s market is that it allows the buyer/borrower to maximize their purchasing power by minimizing their down payment.

In the past, conventional second mortgages (Home Equity Line of Credit and Closed End Loans) were a popular and smart option for buyers who wanted to take advantage of a low down payment but still avoid the added expense and qualifying restrictions that come with Mortgage Insurance. As the market has turned, however, these purchase money seconds from conventional lenders have all but disappeared as the risk has far outweighed the lender’s returns on their investment. There are currently no banks giving second mortgages above 80% of the appraised value of the property (and in most cases they cap at 70% or 75%). That’s where seller financing can comes in as a huge buyer incentive.

Assuming the seller has the available equity and is willing to carry the Promissory Note for the borrower, Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac currently allow for a combined loan to value of up to 95% of the property’s appraised value. This means that the buyer could get an 80% loan to value first mortgage through a conventional lender, a 15% seller second mortgage, and contribute as little as 5% of their own funds toward down payment. This would allow the buyer to avoid Mortgage Insurance and, in some cases, possibly qualify for a Conventional loan (versus FHA) when they otherwise wouldn’t have (due to some pretty strict current Mortgage Insurance restrictions on credit score, debt to income ratios, reserves, etc).

Additionally, the seller financing can also help make up the difference between purchase price/appraised value, and a conforming loan amount ($417,000), which carry slightly lower rates and monthly payments than High Balance Conforming or Jumbo loans.

Now, that said, the terms of the seller financing will be have to be reviewed and approved by the first mortgage lender and pass all Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac guidelines for second mortgages. For instance, the seller’s financing cannot amortize (have a term) less than 5 years from the Note date, cannot have a Pre-Payment Penalty (“early termination fees are allowed permitting they don’t exceed $500), cannot allow for any negative amortization (the borrower must make at least Interest Only payments), and cannot exceed certain limitations on rates & fees. Furthermore, in addition to qualifying for the Conventional first mortgage, the borrower WILL have to qualify for the entire principal and interest payment on the seller’s note, and the lender may require an additional review of the appraisal in order to verify that the property value meets their minimum criteria.

All in all, seller financing has some huge benefits for potential buyers. While not many sellers have the luxury of offering that option to buyers in today’s market, it can be an extremely beneficial option for buyers looking to “think outside the box” of conventional mortgage financing.

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

1721 Spur Ridge, Healdsburg

As you may have found, this is a testy Real Estate Market. There are no guarantees that the lenders will provide enough to cover the sale of the home. Often, buyers don’t have enough cash for a 20% or even 10% down payment. Therefore, sellers of homes in certain price ranges and regions may need to come to the table with inventive ways to attract potential buyers. I’ve seen sellers offer exotic vacations, appliances, even boats and cars to sweeten the deal.

Gifts are nice, but the most attractive incentive to a potential home buyer is a lower price. However, sometimes even that isn’t enough if comparable properties are also reduced or there is an excess of inventory. In this case, one creative option to consider is seller financing.

Here are two properties currently for sale in Sonoma County that feature seller financing. Both are lovely with fresh remodeling and seller financing may just be the ticket to make them available to a buyer who may not have the opportunity or the cash in their account to make the purchase work otherwise.

1721 Spur Ridge, Healdsburg 

7220 Hayden, Sebastopol  

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

Photo credit: Nick Young

The coastline of Marin and Sonoma Counties offers miles upon miles of spectacular beaches, most with their own characteristics and benefits. In Sonoma County, one of our favorites is Doran Beach, just south of Bodega Bay. Part of the Sonoma County Regional Park system, Doran Beach is a two-mile spit of sandy beach tucked behind Bodega Head, at the entrance to the harbor. This unique location and the southern orientation of the beach mean few, if any, big pounding waves, making it an ideal spot for young kids and water-shy adults to actually enjoy the ocean. On any given day at Doran, fog or no fog, you’ll find young and old enjoying the beach: swimming, strolling, picnicking, flying kites, building sand castles and even crabbing and fishing from the rock jetty on the north side of the spit. For those ready to spend more than just the day, Doran has great camping facilities that are open year-round. As a regional park, Doran has all the usual facilities, in addition to – and this is another reason why we love where we live: no one gets left out – a beach wheelchair which is available upon request.

Have you been to Doran Beach? What was your experience like?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Photo taken by Tinou Bao

The North Bay has a lot to offer car aficionados – both young and old – whether you’re into cheering from the stands, taking hairpin turns on your own, or just admiring new and vintage vehicles.

In Sonoma County, the Infineon Raceway is home to an amazing motor-sports industrial park of more than 65 businesses, including car preparation and restoration and vintage car storage, not to mention the nearly 340 days of high-speed racing a year. And for those who want to take part in the action themselves at Infineon, there’s the Jim Russell Kart Racing and Driving School. Kart racing is open to kids 8 and up while the school is open to drivers 14 and older (Highway Survival courses are offered for teens and adults).

Driven Raceway, also in Sonoma County, in Rohnert Park, is great for indoor Kart Racing. This is an ideal place to take the family, whether it’s a rainy day, or hot, hot, hot outside. With both kids and adult Karts available, everyone can have fun. If you really get into it, you can even race in their leagues. And if the kids get bored of Dad’s need for speed, there is an arcade, a mini-bowling alley, and even black-light mini golf.

Several towns in the North Bay also host classic car parades or car shows, including the Marin Sonoma Concours d’Elegance, the Tiburon Classic car show and Corvettes at the Castle in Kenwood.

Are you a car or racing fan? What’s your favorite event?

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Once again, Petaluma closes its downtown streets to welcome the 9th Annual Art and Garden Festival. There’s always so much to do on a given weekend in Wine Country, but this Festival has something that will keep you in town if you live here, and drive you here if you live elsewhere. On Sunday, July 11, from 11AM to 4PM you can be part of the fun for free too.

As the name implies, it’s about art and garden but also about music, kids’ activities and beer and wine. Over 100 vendors will set up for your enjoyment. Stroll our charming downtown streets, grab a local microbrew and tour the garden displays from local landscape designers. You can’t go wrong with the music line-up. You can sit and watch, dance around or just enjoy the music as part of the background of this lively event. By now you will be hungry, so grab a bite from one of the local restaurants featuring signature dishes meant to compliment that local brew or wine you’re sampling. Talk to the vendors, they love this event and I’m pretty sure you will too. The full lineup is on the Petaluma Downtown Website.

Proceeds from the event are used for downtown beautification. I’m all for that! So please, come on down to Petaluma’s 9th Annual Art and Garden Festival on Sunday and help us keep Petaluma Downtown BEAUTIFUL!

For a full calendar of Petaluma events, go to: www.visitpetaluma.com

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

Photo taken by Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar

Imagine sitting down among the scenic beauty of a vineyard, surrounded by lush grape vines, roses and rolling hills. Add to that a gourmet lunch paired with your newfound favorite wine and you’ve got yourself a pleasant way to spend an afternoon in the Wine Country. Whether you live in Sonoma or Napa Counties or are just visiting, a Wine Country picnic is a wonderful way to enjoy the area. Unfortunately, you can’t just spread out a picnic blanket anywhere, but several wineries do have picnic spots. Some may require reservations or fees, so best to do a little research before setting out.

To prepare for your picnic, stop by Whole Foods in Napa (one of the largest we’ve seen) or visit the well-known and beloved Oakville Grocery in Oakville (arrive early to avoid crowds). Another great option for the gourmet foodie is Dean & DeLuca in St.Helena. Have a sandwich or salad made to order at the deli, pore over their amazing selection of pre-made dishes and specialty items or just grab some truffle salt to take home. You can then head over to nearby Louis M. Martini Winery and enjoy your feast at one of their sunny picnic tables. If your tasting tour takes you to Calistoga, you can visit Bothe State Park which offers picnic tables amongst Redwoods, ferns and Douglas Fir trees – they even have a swimming pool for those hot summer days. If you prefer to buy your picnic fare at the winery, try Chateau St.Jean or V. Sattui. Chateau St. Jean allows you to buy wines by the glass and take them out on the grounds – which feature spectacular gardens. V. Sattui is known for their enormous cheese counter and has a delicious deli as well. Off the tourist path a little bit is Jimtown Store in Alexander Valley. Like Oakville Grocery, this is more country store meets California gourmet.

These are just some of the places where we love to wine and dine outdoors – there are many more options. Let us know if we missed one of your favorites, or if you have a recommended wine or dish at any of the places we mentioned.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Sonoma County is an outdoor wonderland. With several regional and national parks, there are countless activities to partake in and trails to embark on. One of our favorite activities is to hike the Good Speed trail to Gunsight Rock. This hike starts out in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in Kenwood and takes you into adjacent Hood Mountain Regional Park. Many people hike to the summit, but the view from the top is obstructed by Manzanita and pine tree cover. However, about a quarter-mile below the summit is Gunsight Rock. The hike takes close to four hours round trip, but the views from this vantage point more than reward you for your efforts as you can see just about all of Sonoma County. In fact, on a clear day you can see the ridges in Napa and Marin as well. The journey to Gunsight Rock is just as enjoyable. You’ll travel through redwoods, over beautiful bridges and running water and pass by bay laurel, oaks, grasslands, wildflowers and wildlife. Notably, it has been said that this is one of the places you can spot Peregrine Falcons – but you have to have a quick eye as these majestic birds of prey are known to be one of the – if not the – fastest animals on earth.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

In addition to homebuyers, the North Bay attracts businesses large and small. Many well-known companies – Williams-Sonoma, LucasFilm, and Amy’s Kitchen, not to mention so many of the wineries – have either gotten their start here or have headquarters in the area.

We all know the wineries open their doors to visitors, but there are also a good number of other local companies that allow us to experience first-hand how their product is made. These “factory” tours are widely popular amongst locals and tourists alike. 

For those who remember collecting stickers as a kid, or who have kids of their own with the passion, a visit to Mrs. Grossman’s sticker factory in Petaluma will take you back to those days of red hearts and gold stars. Highlights of the tour, to which many local school children are privy, include watching the laser web (the technology behind the company’s exclusive laser-cut stickers) and creating a postcard in the Sticker Art Room. Another tour that’s popular with the kids is the Jelly Belly tour. You have to travel a little farther – out to Fairfield – but this tour is unique and worth the trip. Here you’ll go behind the scenes and witness why it takes more than a week to make a single bean. You can also visit the candy store and swing by the Sample Bar where you can try all the different flavors and build your own unique recipes.

For the adults, there are tours that reveal the secrets of some of the delicious food and drinks made in this region. If you’re a fan of olive oil, a trip to McEvoy ranch is a must. While in Petaluma, you can make a day of it by also visiting the Marin French Cheese Company and Lagunitas Brewing Company. For that last stop, be sure to schedule time after your tour at the brewery to relax in the Beer Sanctuary with some live music.

More info:

Mrs. Grossmans Sticker Factory: www.mrsgrossmans.com
Tours are Monday-Thursday by reservation only.

Jelly Belly Factory: www.jellybelly.com
Guided factory tours operate daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Lagunitas Brewing Company: www.lagunitas.com
Tours are every weekday at 3:00pm.

Marin French Cheese Company: www.marinfrenchcheese.com
Tours are available seven days a week at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, Noon and 3:00 pm. Most cheese making activity occurs Monday through Thursday between 10:00 am and Noon.

McEvoy Ranch: www.mcevoyranch.com
Upcoming special tours: Garden Walk & Lunch – July 8, August 19, September 16; Orchard Walk & Mill Tour – August 7, September 11, October 2

Read what fellow bloggers Martha O’Hayer and Judy LeMarr have had to say about some of their favorite tours.

Do you have a favorite tour to add to the list? Let us know in the comments.

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Image via Wildcat Dunny

When you’re lucky enough to live in or around the Napa/Sonoma Wine Country, it’s easy to take the amazing scenery for granted. One great way to gain a new perspective is to take flight and view the area from above. There are several options for doing this, including helicopter and hot air balloon rides.

Another, less expensive option is to visit a mountain-top winery and take in the panoramic views. The well-known standard for this is Sterling Vineyards in Calistoga. Its hilltop location provides panoramic views of the Napa Valley and there’s even an aerial tram – the only one of its kind in the valley – to get to the top. Sterling Vineyards is also kid-friendly, offering juice boxes for little ones.  

If you find yourself in Sonoma Valley, there’s Kunde Family Estate in Kenwood, which just last week announced the official launch of its new Mountain Top Tour and Tasting. Offered every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the tour takes you through the Mayacamas Mountains and up to 1,400 feet where you’ll be greeted with panoramic vistas, breathtaking views and a beautiful setting for tasting their sustainably-farmed, estate-grown wines. Like Frank Howard Allen Realtors, Kunde Family Estate is family-owned and has also celebrated 100 years of serving the North Bay.  

Balloon Rides
Napa Valley Drifters
Balloons Above the Valley
Napa Valley Balloons, Inc.

Helicopter Rides
Wine Country Helicopters
Napa Helicopter Charters 

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Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors

We are fortunate to have so many national and regional parks in this area and Spring Lake Park is one of our favorites. With so much to do in this recreational area located in Santa Rosa, it’s hard to pick just one thing, but we’re partial to paddle boating on Spring Lake. You can rent paddle boats during the summer (May through September) and it’s a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can also windsurf, kayak or canoe and there is a boat ramp that is open year-round. If you’d rather enjoy the lake from dry land, there’s an easy path around the lake for running, walking, cycling or horseback riding, as well as trails throughout the park that even connect you to nearby Howarth City Park and Annadel State Park, creating an outstanding 8-mile recreational facility.

Read what fellow blogger Ruth Buzzard had to say about Spring Lake:
http://www.guidemehome2sonoma.com/2010/4/8/what-is-that-lake-in-santa-rosa

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Posted by: Frank Howard Allen Realtors

The Sonoma-Marin Fair begins today, so you had better get some rest because you’ll need it if you intend to take it all in. It’s not the biggest Fair in Sonoma County, but it packs a lot of punch.

Beginning on June 23 and continuing till June 27, the Sonoma-Marin Fair will fill the Petaluma Fairgrounds with all the sights and sounds of old timey fairs, but will also present a few events you may not have heard of on any fair circuit.

For instance, today is Kids’ Day and everyone gets in for $10 before 5 PM. And, in addition to the usual Poultry Showmanship and Dairy Challenges, you may have a ringer in your house for the Text Messaging Challenge or the Guitar Hero Challenge. The Teen Edge includes a fashion show, band competitions and more. The Fair is agricultural in nature, but there seems to be something for all ages here. A full schedule of events can be found here and you can view all of the kid specific activities here.

Thursday is Seniors’ Day, Friday is Ag (Agriculture) Day, Saturday is Farmers’ Day and Sunday is Family Day. There’s music each night including local favorites Tower of Power and their incredible horn section. Stop by beforehand and sample this year’s winners of the North of the Bay Wine Competition.

Tons to do and not enough time to include it all in this post, so check back soon for further details. And if your kids have super fast thumbs or a real competitive edge in Guitar Hero, get yourself down to the Fairgrounds and let them shine! We all know it’s kids’ day everyday, but they might just get rewarded with bragging rights for an everyday activity!

Posted by:  Martha O’Hayer

Right now it seems as though everyone has World Cup fever and the buzzing sounds of the South African vuvuzela horn are taking the planet by storm. As it turns out, we have a bit of Africa right here in our own backyard. Giraffes, gazelles, zebras and hundreds of other animals inhabit Safari West, the wildlife preserve that covers 400 acres in the Santa Rosa ‘Serengeti.’ The mission of Safari West is preservation through breeding, education, research and public interaction. It’s a wonderful escape and will leave you amazed at the fact that you are so close to home. When you think of Sonoma County’s activities and unique benefits, wine-tasting, bike riding and exquisite locally-grown foods all come to mind, but there’s also a vast expanse of breathtaking nature and this is just one more way to enjoy it.

Fellow blogger Ruth Buzzard wrote this about Safari West: http://www.guidemehome2sonoma.com/2009/4/30/africa-in-the-wine-country

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Posted by: Frank Howard Allen Realtors

Sonoma County is of course known for wine country events and June 5 is no exception for Downtown Santa Rosa. The South A Arts Alliance, wine makers, restaurants and local artists are hosting this spring event – 3rd Annual Vine Art on Saturday, June 5 from 6-9 PM in Santa Rosa’s Arts District.

This water color I painted features the grapes in the Vine Hill School area of Sebastopol during my wine making days. Always fascinating to the get the email, that even though it was raining cats and dogs, it was time to head over to pick the grapes and eat pizza. 

How irresistible is that?

Posted by:  Judy Freedman

The Meyer lemon is extraordinary in color and flavor and grows with zeal in Sonoma County. My 40 year old tree produces so many lemons that I need to finds new ways to use them.

Preserved lemons are used chopped up as a condiment with Mediterranean foods such as eggplant dishes similar to ratatouille, roast chicken and humus amongst many choices. 

The jars are almost too beautiful to use. Simply assembled by putting a couple tablespoons of kosher salt on the bottom of a mason jar, then quarter cut your lemons, lengthwise, but not through to the bottom and coat with kosher salt inside and outside the quartered lemons. Squish the lemons into the jar. Cover with additional Meyer lemon juice and two more tablespoons of kosher salt using at about 1/2 cup kosher salt in each jar. On your counter for a week turn your jars (with tight lids) upside down once a day for a week and then refrigerate and enjoy for 6 months or more. Most importantly, Google ”preserved lemons” for recipes to get better directions than I have given.

When shopping for homes in Santa Rosa, you will be surprised at how often you will see Meyer lemon trees. Sometimes there are so many lemons around, that I need to create watercolor paintings with them.

You can be fairly sure that when you buy a house in Santa Rosa, you will have a good chance of growing lemons.

Posted by:  Judy Freedman

Sonoma Counties best kept secret

The best bike ride for timid bicyclists like myself is the Joe Rodota Trail, 2.8 miles of paved trail that follows an abandoned railroad line between Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. Walking, biking, running, roller skating and more can be experienced on this beautiful and peaceful trail. On a Sunday morning you will wind up at the colorful Sebastopol Farmer’s Market featuring diverse foods, local produce and arts and crafts.

A great opportunity for young children to experience walking, bicycle riding, horseback riding, and roller skating in this serene setting. You can see the Laguna of Santa Rosa, the historic railroad, train trestles and enjoy fantastic birding along the way.

Posted by:  Judy Freedman

Sonoma County is very fortunate to have an educational preserve located in Glen Ellen that serves Elementary School children in the 3rd through 5th grades.

I have just finished my first season as a docent for the spring hiking season at the 535 acre Bouverie Preserve. Over 2,000 children visited the Preserve and had educational programs presented by Bouverie Docents in participating classrooms.

The children had the opportunity to observe more than 130 species of birds, 350 species of flowering plants, and numerous large mammals such as the bobcat, grey fox, and coyote. The children delighted in holding the striking black skinned and red bellied newts, banana slugs and fungi were plentiful this season.

Opportunities to Visit the Bouverie Preserve: Guided Nature Walks
Walks are open to the public on Saturdays throughout fall and spring. Reservations are required. See coming walks and the Saturday Bouverie Backyard Naturalist Series for one to three mile hikes.

The Bouverie Preserve of Audubon Canyon Ranch is approximately 6 miles north of the historic town of Sonoma, along Highway 12 in the Valley of the Moon near the village of Glen Ellen. Access is by appointment only (see below).

Posted by:  Judy Freedman

Recently I was lucky enough to spend some time at the Plaza in the Town of Sonoma. What a gorgeous and fun place to hang out. I took Highway 12 from North Santa Rosa to Sonoma, which makes for a great drive on a spring day and takes you past tons of wineries including Kunde Estates and Ledson Winery, which is housed in a gorgeous Normandy-style castle. (Here is a list of Sonoma Wineries with a number of them along Highway 12. There are also great places to lunch along the way and even beautiful places to stay such as the Kenwood Inn & Spa.)

Once you arrive in the City of Sonoma (mostly called the Town of Sonoma), you can head over to the Plaza off of Broadway. The Sonoma Plaza is the largest in the state and home to the Sonoma Cheese Factory, the Sonoma Barracks used by General Vallejo in the 1850s and now a Historic Landmark, the Toscano Hotel, and the Sonoma City Hall.

The Town of Sonoma has a rich history in California: it was the Capital of the California Republic, which existed for a whole 26 days in 1846. It is considered the birthplace of the California Wine Country and as a side note, is also the birthplace of the well-known housewares company Williams Sonoma.

With historical buildings, amazing shops and restaurants, scenic drives, and lots to do, it’s hard to beat a refreshing and relaxing trip to the Town of Sonoma.

Many great events take place in the Plaza, including:

A year-round Farmer’s Market held Fridays from 8:30 am – noon
Free docent-led tours at The Toscano Hotel are offered Saturday, Sunday and Monday, from 1-4pm
Fireworks on the Fourth of July
The Sonoma Jazz Festival
For more events, click here.

Not in the mood for one of these events? Then grab a lunch and have a picnic in the park.

The Sonoma Plaza has been Yelp’d and you can check out the reviews here.

What is your favorite stretch of the California Wine Country?

Posted by:  Jennifer Masterson

Over the past few weeks I have been asked several times, “Is this a good time to buy a house?” The complete answer depends on each individual situation, but in general there are several factors that indicate this is, indeed, a good time to buy. Here’s why:

• Interest rates remain low. They fluctuate, of course, but as of today hover under 5% for a 30-year fixed loan.


• While home prices generally are not as low as they were a year ago, especially in the “entry level” ranges, they are still far lower than at the top of the market. In some cases my clients are finding that their mortgage payments are roughly the same as paying rent. When you factor in the tax benefits, the picture looks even rosier.


• For those looking for investment property, this is the first time in many years that an investor might break even or have a modest positive cash flow. Lenders will generally require a 25% down payment for investment property.


• Many times bank-owned properties have a lot of deferred maintenance but are good bargains. If you are willing to put up with the inconvenience and extra work of buying a bank-owned property, you can move in with instant equity.

If you want to sit down and “run the numbers” just give me a call. I’ll be happy to help you figure out if now is the right time for YOU to buy.

Posted by:  Deborah Byrne

The Petaluma Farmers’ Market opens this Saturday, May 22. It may be hard to tell from looking out your window, but farmers’ market season is upon us bringing forth fresh produce, artisan baked goods, beautiful plants and flowers and specialty arts and crafts. There are two markets in Petaluma (the Wednesday Evening market will open June 2) offering access to some of Sonoma County’s bounty. In addition to the delicious food and produce, the Saturday market features live music, face painting, a balloon artist, jump house, and pony rides.

Farmers’ Markets have long since been a staple in Sonoma County and the New York Times has a recent post on their Bay Area blog describing farmers’ markets in the Bay Area by the numbers. Some interesting stats from that post include:

• 12: Number of certified farmers’ markets in California in 1979; 540 Number of certified farmers’ markets in California today
• 56: Cents on the retail dollar that farmers receive when selling at a farmers’ market; 30 Cents on the dollar when selling wholesale
• 5: Calories in a strawberry; 435 Fuel calories required to ship a strawberry from California to New York

So grab your reusable bag and come down this weekend…now is the time to purchase locally-grown produce and support our area farmers.

The Petaluma Saturday Farmers’ Market
Saturdays 2:00pm – 5:00pm
May 22 – October 30
Walnut Park on the Corner of Pet. Blvd South & D St.

The Petaluma Evening Farmers’ Market
Wednesdays 4:30pm – 8:00pm
June 2 – September 1
Theatre District (2nd Street between B & D Streets)

Petaluma is just one of several farmers’ markets in Sonoma County. View this chart for more or visit: cafarmersmarkets.com

Posted By: Edward Reiners

If you’re lucky enough to live in the State of California, enjoying the great climate and geography, diversity and culture, history and charm, arts and entertainment, and landmarks and outdoor activities, you may also be able to add tax credits to the list of fringe benefits of living in California if you purchase a home soon.

With home prices and interest rates at historical lows, fortunate home buyers in California may qualify for a federal tax credit up to $8,000 in addition to the recent state tax credit up to $10,000 (if you time your purchase right over the next few months). However, taking advantage of Uncle Sam’s generosity will have to be timed right and not all may qualify. Many home buyers who plan to be in escrow by April 30, 2010 and close escrow by June 30, 2010 realize they qualify for up to an $8,000 federal home-buyer tax credit.

An eligible taxpayer must purchase, or enter into a binding contract to purchase, a principal residence and close escrow on or before April 30, 2010. However, the tax credit will qualify if a binding purchase contract is signed by April 30, 2010 and escrow closes by June 30, 2010.

Many home buyers may attempt to delay their close of escrow until after April 30, so they can also qualify for the new California home-buyer tax credit, which was signed into law recently. The state credit is worth up to $10,000, spread over three years. Although the chances of taking advantage of both tax credits is relief to many prospective home buyers, timing is key and the amount of buyers who will benefit from both credits may be slim.

To qualify for both the state and federal tax credits you must buy the home as your principle residence, you must be in contract on or before April 30, 2010 and you must close escrow between May 1, 2010 and June 30, 2010, and meet all other requirements. Timing will be tricky, especially if you’re in escrow on a foreclosure or short sale, which may not close escrow in the short window of time to take advantage of both tax credits.

Prospective buyers who have already locked in a mortgage rate may lose their rate, or will have to pay an additional fee to extend their rate lock (if they choose to postpone their closing to possibly reap the benefits of both tax credits).

The federal tax credit for first-time home buyers (the IRS defines a first-time home buyer as someone who has not owned a principal residence the past three years prior to the purchase) is equal to 10 percent of the purchase price (up to a maximum of $8,000, as the tax credit applies only to homes priced at $800,000 or less). The tax credit doesn’t have to be repaid unless the home is sold or no longer used as the buyer’s principle residence within three years after the purchase.

Buyers can claim the federal tax credit when they file their tax return (or amend the prior year’s return). This credit is refundable and the entire amount will be paid, even if you have zero federal tax liability or the credit is more than your federal tax.

The credit is also valid for current homeowners buying a replacement principal residence. Eligibility to claim the tax credit states that the buyers must have owned and lived in their previous home for five consecutive years out of the previous eight years. The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the purchase price (up to a maximum of $6,500 and the tax credit applies only to homes priced at $800,000 or less). The credit is available if the home was purchased between November 7, 2009 – April 30, 2010. However, the tax credit will qualify if a binding purchase contract is signed by April 30, 2010 and escrow closes by June 30, 2010. The income limits are $125,000 for single taxpayers and $225,000 for married couples filing joint tax returns. The tax credit doesn’t have to be repaid unless the home is sold or no longer used as the buyer’s principle residence within three years after the purchase.

The State of California tax credit is the lesser of 5 percent of the purchase price or $10,000. First-time buyers can purchase a new or existing home but repeat buyers can only purchase a new home that has never been occupied.

The California credit is spread over three years, up to $3,333 per year and it is not refundable. If you owe less than $3,333 in one (or more) of those years, you lose the difference that year. Even if you owed $3,333 before you owned a house, you might owe less due to of all the new tax deductions.

The state credit does not have an income limit or purchase price limit, however, some buyers who fall below the income limits for the federal credit might not owe enough California tax to get the full benefit of the state credit.

To get the California credit, you must close escrow between May 1, 2010 – December 31, 2010, or whenever the money for the program runs out, whichever comes first (the money will probably run out before December 31, 2010).

The state credit for new construction can be reserved if you enter into a contract between May 1, 2010 – December 31, 2010 and close escrow prior to August 1, 2011. If you choose this route, you will not qualify for the federal credit because you entered into a contract after April 30, 2010.

Buyers should consult a well-informed tax advisor and understand both credits.

Posted By: Doug Hecker

The Amgen Tour of California, America’s largest cycling event, takes off from Nevada City on May 16 for an eight-day event through California, visiting both Santa Rosa and San Francisco, before ending in Thousand Oaks on May 23. With natural beauty rivaling that of the tour of our friends in France, what better place to have a cycling event?

The Tour first started in February 2006, and has since grown in popularity. Last year I accidently caught a bit of the Tour as it came through Santa Rosa. Even in the mist and rain, both diehard and casual fans alike were spirited and supportive. It was awesome! Amongst the reasons for the strong support, Santa Rosa resident and three-time Tour of California winner, Levi Leipheimer. That and, of course, all the local Sonoma County cycling enthusiasts.

This year Santa Rosa is the Stage 2 Finish on the Davis to Santa Rosa route, on May 17. This stage of the Tour will cover 109.5 miles starting at 11 AM with an estimated arrival time in Santa Rosa during the 3 o’clock hour. As a finish city, Santa Rosa will also host a free Lifestyle Festival with family-friendly activities, demonstrations and cycling displays. Festivities start at 11 AM in Courthouse Square with Happy Hour and further celebrations continuing through the evening on Fourth Street.

This is the fifth consecutive year Santa Rosa has been a part of the Tour of California and the routes change each year; last weekend about 550 participants got a sneak peak at the 2010 route as part of a fundraiser led by 11-time Tour de France rider George Hincapie.

Check out these links for more information about the 2010 Tour of California:

Official Tour of California website
City of Santa Rosa Tour website
Stage 2 – Davis to Santa Rosa
Tour of California on Twitter

Posted by:Jennifer Masterson

It’s the hap-, happi- est time of the year! I know you’re thinking that I’m nuts, we just got over that crazy holiday season.

Let me clarify: for me, the upcoming weekend is the best of the year in Petaluma. Each year for the past 29 years, on the fourth Saturday in April, Petalumans old and young join in for the Annual Butter and Egg Day Parade. Petaluma’s premiere event draws tens of thousands who love a parade and all of the hoopla that goes with it. Our heritage is celebrated with cows and chicks and a plethora of activities. The Cutest Chick Contest, Cow Chip Toss and more will provide entertainment for everyone. This year’s event is themed ‘Petaluma’s Shining Moments.’ There have been many. Join the fun and you may create your very own shining moment on Saturday! Don’t forget your camera. It’s a slice of Americana, I assure you. The Parade starts at Noon and the events of the day run from 10 AM until 5 PM.

As if that weren’t enough, on Sunday, April 25, Petaluma opens its doors and closes its streets for the 24th Annual Antique Faire. Historic Downtown transforms into an antique marketplace from 8 AM to 4 PM with over 180 dealers. Streets are closed to traffic and an atmosphere that can only be found in our historic downtown is created. Take your time, stroll Kentucky Street and shop to your heart’s content. Amazing and fascinating items from days gone by are there for you to browse or buy. The weather is almost always perfect so grab your hat, some sunscreen and head downtown for day two of my favorite weekend.

Unfortunately, you won’t see me there this weekend. Family obligations beckon me to the east coast. So alas, you are on your own. Find your way to Petaluma and bring your friends and family. You’ll see why we love it here. You’ll see lots of friends and neighbors. Say hi to someone you don’t know and see why I think it’s the “most wonderful time of the year!”

Posted by:Martha O’Hayer

The weather is warming up and the brew pubs are beckoning.  Sonoma County serves up amazing wines, we know, but as the old saying goes…”it takes a lot of beer to make great wine.” Winemakers, and just plain old folks alike know that sometimes there’s nothing better than a cold one.

Petaluma features two breweries, Dempsey’s in the Golden Eagle Shopping Center and Lagunitas Brewery on N. McDowell in a most unlikely spot, a business park.  Neither will disappoint.

Dempsey’s award-winning selection of beers are produced on site and best enjoyed with some of their fine pub fare. Find yourself a nice spot outside overlooking the Petaluma River and watch the action while you sip a pint or two. The atmosphere is casual so don’t rush your stay, grab a burger, enjoy their amazing salads or decide on a delicious dessert. The beer is cold and the living is easy.

Lagunitas Brewing Company has been around for some time, but recently opened their Tap Room and Beer Sanctuary. Aptly named, you need to experience the Beer Sanctuary yourself to understand why it feels like such a great getaway. The Tap Room and Beer Sanctuary opens at 3pm Wednesday through Friday; Saturday and Sunday it opens at 1:00pm. When the taps are open, the music is playing so check out who’s up next on the Sanctuary stage. You just never know the extent of the talent. We do know that the beer, as well as the food menu, is seasonally inspired. Lagunitas keeps adding to their brews—one of the latest is the Wilco Tango Foxtrot. Check out the virtual tasting here.

So if Petaluma is the gateway to Sonoma County and wine country, maybe soon we will be known as the gateway to beer country. Santa Rosa has the 3rd Street Aleworks, which does all brewing on site and features much outdoor seating, a diverse menu, a pool table, and sporting events on the many screens.  Also in downtown Santa Rosa is The Russian River Brewing Company with its wide selection of award winners.

Occidental has Barley and Hops Tavern. Healdsburg features the Bear Republic Brewing Company.  HopMonk Tavern in Sebastopol has been transformed into an unpretentious venue where you will enjoy American Craft Beer as well as the European Classics served by fun folks with a passion for all things beer. Music can be found at all of these establishments on varying schedules. So kick back and enjoy a cold one, listen to some music and savor a truly Sonoma-style hand-crafted beauty!

Do you have a favorite local brewery?

Posted by:Martha O’Hayer

Judy Le Marr on our GuideMeHome2MarinLuxury blog just posted about Muir Woods in Marin County. Personally, I love Muir Woods. However there is a gem in Sonoma County, a cousin, if you will, to Muir Woods: Armstrong Woods – also known as Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Armstrong is great on a hot summer day, as the Redwoods offer shade and relief from the heat. Though this past Sunday was quite drizzly, it was still amazingly pleasant.

There is something magical and awe inspiring about Redwoods. Standing beneath so many huge Redwoods always makes me remember that they are on the planet for such a long time, that it took years for them to grow, and that we need to be really grateful and seize each moment in life. With the oldest tree in the park an estimated 1400 years old (that’s Colonel Armstrong), my few years seem quite short.

The tallest tree is Parson Jones, of which I have attached a shot. Parson Jones is 310 feet in height and just a short .1 mile walk from the entrance. To look up and see the top of Parson Jones is quite amazing.

One of the best things about Armstrong Woods is the numerous trails it offers. You can walk the manicured trails for up to 1.7 miles (to the picnic area and back). There are also more strenuous and less formal hikes on many trails with a variety of levels of exercise involved. In addition to the hiking and picnicking, there are places to walk your dog and ride your horse. There are even nearby camp grounds (not affiliated with the park).

To get to Armstrong Woods from Highway 101, you take  River Road to Guerneville and turn right at Rio Nido Road. I think it’s an added bonus to go play in Guerneville – there are some great restaurants and shops if one is up for playing the tourist.

Where is your favorite place to enjoy our North Bay Redwoods?

Posted by:Jennifer Masterson

As a Realtor, I am aware that short sales are here to stay for the next few years. It’s a fact that I prefer to ignore. I’m invited to attend short sale seminars by the dozens. I’m asked to embrace them as a way of life in the Real Estate World. I have yet to represent a short sale seller, by my own choice. I refer the business to someone who has the patience to deal with the lenders, the seller, the calls, the faxes, the lost paperwork, etc.

I have, however, represented many buyers in short sale transactions. Until recently, these transactions were a waiting and wondering nightmare that cause buyers to say “Why won’t anyone take my money?! All I want to do is buy a house. I have a 30% down payment and I can get a loan, why won’t anyone [seller’s lender] talk to me?” When the buyer has been complaining this way for 8 or more months, it’s hard to offer an adequate explanation. There really is no good answer. That is, until recently.

This week, my buyers received lender approval on a short sale offer we made only six weeks ago! Yes, that seems like lightening speed compared to four, five, six months with no response. Additionally, this lender is providing the seller with a $5000 move out credit. That’s right, real money to move for a seller that has been hit hard with financial woes. Amazing.

So, who is this magical lender with the power to respond to offers in 7-10 business days or less? Who can close a real estate transaction in an average of 37 business days, start to finish? Who is this lender that provides local contacts who understand our market conditions? Who is it?

It’s Wells Fargo Home Mortgage – formerly Wachovia. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has developed a field short sale program where field managers are assigned areas where they will provide outreach to sellers about their options regarding short sales. These same managers provide a point of contact to the Realtor Community as well. In fact, the very person who approved our short sale in six weeks spoke to our local Chapter of Realtors this week in Petaluma. I was so impressed that I went up, introduced myself and shook his hand. Thanks, Sam Bedros!! You may make a short sale believer out of this Realtor after all.

Posted by:Martha O’Hayer

Have you ever wondered about that lake on the east side of town? I remember when my family first moved to Sonoma County, Spring Lake instantly caught my curiosity. From my map it was clearly marked, but it seemed rather odd that a lake would be in the middle of a city the size of Santa Rosa. It has forever intrigued me, so I decided to search the internet and find out more. A bit disappointed not to find much history, I did discover the lake is part of an earthen dam built in 1963 and is owned by the Sonoma County Water Agency. As it turns out, it is more of a reservoir than a lake.

Of course, if I had delved further, I may have come across more information, but for the purpose of this post, I want to share with people why I love this wonderful nature area.

As I’ve mentioned in other posts, I love to walk! So once a week I meet one of my friends at Spring Lake and we take our dogs on a spin around the lake. We also include Howarth Park in the walk, as it adds a bit more distance to our jaunt and allows our pets to have more time to play together. Plus, I have the pleasure of spending time with my dear friend, which is a double bonus.

Click picture for more information

I also make it a point to include a tour of Spring Lake when clients or visitors from other parts of the country (and world) meet with me and ask for an introduction to the area. What better way to introduce them to our community then to show off this delightful spot. You can follow this link to learn more. And if you are so inclined, go for a couple of hours, or spend the day. Spring Lake is part of the 320-acre Spring Lake Regional Park and offers plenty to do in addition to walking trails, including camping, fishing, picnicking, swimming, cycling and horseback riding.

Do you know more about the history of Spring Lake? Or have a favorite activity to do in the area? Please share in the comments.

Posted By: Ruth Buzzard

Spring Break for school-age kids is almost here. So what are you going to do while your kids are out of school? Some folks may travel but many of us will take advantage of what is at our fingertips and enjoy a stay-cation right here in the North Bay.

Sonoma County

Go Skating: Ice, Roller, or Board
Tee up with some Mini- Golf
Drive like Mario Andretti
Find an arcade and spend some of those spare quarters
Swing set or teeter totter at a playground
Take a hike, walk, or bike in the beautiful wine country
Take the Train or ride a Ferris Wheel at Train Town
Sit on the dock of the Bay
Visit Shell Beach
Ride the Carousel or see what else is happening over at Howarth Park

Heading North
Take the Skunk Train for a ride with a view.
Mendocino coast, while there check out the Mendocino Chocolate Company or even try Whale Watching (did this last year – it was awesome, but definitely required sea sickness patch).
Head a little north to MacKerricher State Park and check out the tidepools.
Take a long drive through the Avenue of the Giants and enjoy the Redwoods and the roadside attractions.

And of course there are always the old stand-bys:
Check out a book
Go to a Movie
Play a board game

For activities in Marin County and San Francisco, check out our GuideMeHome2Marin Spring Break post .

Posted by:Jennifer Masterson

Springtime in the North Bay means the weather can change from sunshine to rain clouds day by day – or even hour by hour, as we’ve seen this week. So this time of year, whenever I spot sunshine I say, “Let’s go play!”

One recent sunny day that desire to play led to a trip to Shell Beach, which is part of the Sonoma Coast State Beach. As a part-time Sonoma County resident, getting to this gorgeous beach is easy to do. The drive from Fountain Grove (North Santa Rosa) takes you down River Road through Guerneville towards Bridgehaven and then about five minutes along Highway 1.

Once you arrive, there is a great walk between Shell Beach and Goat Rock (okay, okay, the names aren’t pretty, but the views are). As the walk covers some marshy-areas, there is a convenient boardwalk covering some of the trail. It’s just such a fun place to go. My understanding is that in addition to the views there is sometimes entertainment on the one huge rock between the two beaches where you can often see folks bouldering.

Now this was our third attempt at Shell Beach. The thing is, we have never really “conquered” this walk/hike. The reason: lack of preparation and bad timing. The first time we went was November, 2008. Believe it or not, the sun was out and it was a gorgeous fall day. But right before we arrived the fog and cold hit – we weren’t dressed for it so we walked a little bit and then went back and enjoyed the fabulous views from the parking lot. No love lost really as it was a fun and pretty drive.

We next tried in, I believe, spring of 2009. Better prepared with heavy fleeces we thought we would end up walking longer – turned out we needed hats, too, as our ears froze in the wind. So we drove over to Goat Rock and spent a couple hours watching the waves while sitting under a cliff which kept the wind off of us.

That brings us to this sunny Sunday. The views were gorgeous. We had our thick fleeces, we had our hats. He had his hiking shoes. I had my run around town, thin, tennis shoes. It turns out that while it was sunny and beautiful, one morning of sun does not completely dry the world of the previous weeks rain. If only I had worn hiking boots, too. We did end up walking for about 20 minutes before turning around, and the views were worth the cold, wet feet. But somehow, someway, we shall conquer Shell Beach. But that will be another post.

Click the map for a larger view

Do you have a favorite hike in Sonoma County?

Posted by:Jennifer Masterson

It’s the 4th Annual California’s Artisan Cheese Festival, March 26-29.

Join the best of the best in California artisan cheesemaking this weekend at the Sheraton in Petaluma. This annual event features the artisans who still adhere to the original cheesemaking practices – small batch production, made by hand. The cheesemakers support local agriculture and follow sustainable practices. Our rural way of life is supported by the original founders of Cowgirl Creamery who have production facilities in both Sonoma and Marin Counties.

Marin and Sonoma County producers will be well represented at the event – Cowgirl Creamery, Point Reyes Farmstead, Spring Hill Jersey Cheese, Marin French Cheese Company and Bellwether Farms are a few of the many cheesemakers you will find. On Sunday, twenty-four cheesemakers, twenty handmade food makers and twenty wineries and breweries will be on hand in the Marketplace providing samples and selling their delicious goods. Other activities include a Barn Dance on Friday, seminars, cheese tastings and pairings. A full list of events can be found here.

Petaluma is the prime location for the California’s Artisan Cheese Festival. Don’t miss out, make your reservations now. Bring your friends and enjoy our rural roots.

We’re fortunate to have so many cheese producers, artisan food purveyors and vintners in our own backyard. Share some of your local favorites in the comments below.

Posted by:Martha O’Hayer

Do you like to fish, how about a pet parade? Do you want to go on an Easter Egg Hunt? Howarth Park in Santa Rosa is where all the fun begins.

Follow this link to find out about these fun spring time activities which begin this weekend, Sunday, March 28.

Kids Fishing Derby – March 28 Pet Parade – March 31 Easter Egg Hunt – April 3

All events at Howarth Park – 630 Summerfield Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95405

Have you been to Howarth Park lately? In addition to fun seasonal events there are year-round attractions, such as hiking and biking trails, field rentals, and two playgrounds.

Posted By: Ruth Buzzard

Happiness and Sonoma County go hand-in-hand as we’ve seen in the past few posts. Our surroundings are tranquil and generally we find that our lifestyle keeps up with the latest technologies while preserving our rural way of life.

This week alone, we’re experiencing a wide variety of local events that invite the world to see our incredible diversity. From the California Artisan Cheese Festival, that takes place this weekend, March 26 through March 29, to the possibility that Google will select Petaluma as a test city for its ultra high-speed fiber network. (You can nominate Petaluma at www.googleluma.com – hurry deadline is March 26). There’s lots going on just north of the Marin County line.

On the financial front, our own Petaluma based Calix, Inc (formerly Calix Networks, Inc) just this week received $82 Million in its initial public offering and saw shares rise 16% on its first day of trading. I’ll bet there are some happy people there, too! Full details can be found here.

My point is this, we in Sonoma County, and in Petaluma in particular, value the old and the new, and embrace the possibilities that both provide. Petaluma stays on the cutting edge of new technologies while preserving our rural heritage. We all know that balance is the key to a happy life; well, by the look of it, we have a great balance right here in our own back yard!

Have more examples of how we balance preservation and innovation? Post your comments below.

Posted by:Martha O’Hayer

Spring has officially arrived! An acquaintance once asked me what time of year was my favorite in Sonoma County. That’s a tough question, as I find such delight in all of the seasons. However, if I were to choose, it would be spring time.

After a very wet winter this year, we are now experiencing beautiful sunny days, clear blue skies and green hills laden with daffodils, and of course, longer daylight hours. When I wake up in the morning I immediately put on my walking shoes, saddle up the dog and head out to do my three mile walk. What a great way to start the day! I find that walking in the hills with my trusty canine helps to clear my mind, but it also allows me to think of how fortunate my family and I are to live in such a wonderful place as Sonoma County.

In fact just today I was talking with a friend of mine about world travels and all the places our family has visited and lived. New Zealand has always been at the top of our favorites list and it’s no surprise that we chose to live in Sonoma County because of the similarities. If by some chance New Zealand was moved to the coast of Sonoma County, I doubt we could differentiate between the two.

Spring also reminds me of renewing oneself after the winter months. Since November, we have been under siege with cool wet weather, short days and heavy clothing. Just like the plants that spring out of the ground, so too is it time to put on lighter clothes, start weeding the garden and step out early to walk the dog.

As the Frank Howard Allen motto says, “Love Where You Live.” In reference to Sonoma County, no truer words were ever spoken.

What are your favorite things to do in Sonoma County during the spring?

Posted By: Ruth Buzzard

According to CNN Money Magazine’s 2010 real estate profile, Napa, CA is ranked #17 in the nation for forecasted price appreciation. Money details that many cities close to the Bay Area saw a huge run-up in home prices during the post 9/11 boom that lasted through 2006.

Napa is a very well recognized city in Northern California’s wine making region, known for world class culinary dining experiences and vineyards. Napa is also one of the largest cities north of the Golden Gate Bridge with a population of 133,522, according to Money.

Santa Rosa is the largest city in northern California’s wine country with a population of 154,200, which also neighbors iconic and timeless rural Kenwood, CA. Money ranked Santa Rosa #1 in the nation for forecasted price appreciation.

According to market information, prices grew more than 121% from 2000 to the early 2006 peak and have since fallen more than 45%. Today Money concludes that the decline is over and Santa Rosa prices will gain 6% this year, more than any other U.S. city, while at #17, Napa prices will gain 2.3% this year.

This being recently reported, each property situation may be less ordinary and more unique from the median and averages calculated or forecasted by Money Magazine.

Weigh in with your opinion by posting a comment on how you feel about buying real estate in 2010.

For more information about your relocation, next move, or unique properties across the Bay Area contact Ernie Basoco at 707.292.0192 or visit www.ebasoco.com.

Posted by:Ernie Basoco

There are national media press releases we are familiar with, corporate announcements perfectly scripted for a point of emphasis, and articles of journalism that sometimes inform us on important information. Many times the most important piece or meaning can easily get lost, the story. It is how a story relates to your life at the moment and yes, the candor or the informality that can make it memorable. Here are two recent stories I have decided to share right now, which continue to be a reminder that business and emotion can go together and even be fun.

First, an informal story of a fairly important transaction I was involved in. With the pressure sometimes involved, clever relevant humor clearly became the antidote. From that past negotiation, the only thing that stands memorable today is what one of my colleagues told a ranking officer involved in the decision-making process after making a difficult presentation, “Well, I was not standing over these people with a machine gun when they were signing their contract.”

Next is a more touching story that comes directly from the words of a friend, also a gracious past client. Touching because long after a sale and a big family transition, there was kindness shared in some words of advice directly from my new friend: “You have often mentioned the word ‘perfection’ in relation to your goals in client service. I do worry that you will not allow room for mistakes. I was ‘rookie of the year’ my first year in real estate when we lived in Hawaii 30 years ago. I know what an exhausting undertaking it can be. As your new friend…let me offer a word of advice and encouragement: Give yourself some grace! Sometimes we learn some of our best lessons when we make mistakes and it allows us to grow. It is what makes us strong and free.”

My friend is also a coach, even a mentor that I didn’t know before. Sometimes the greatest motivators are those people we are fortunate enough to have the chance to work with, to make friends with, to listen carefully to and not forget their story. Thank you, Sherrie.

Posted by:Ernie Basoco

Living in Santa Rosa just keeps getting better and better…

According to Money Magazine, Santa Rosa’s real estate prices will gain more than any other U.S. city this year and the forecasters are saying the decline is over. Full article.

This is no surprise to me with over 50% of Santa Rosa’s available inventory in contract.

For everyone who’s been waiting to see what’s going to happen with our local real estate market, now is the time to purchase real estate in Santa Rosa. Look at how Santa Rosa compares to other cities in California. In my opinion, they have this information backwards. The list should be reversed, and we should be on the top where we belong. Can you tell I love Santa Rosa?

Don’t forget that Santa Rosa also has the distinction of being one of the 5th happiest cities in America according to the Huffington Post, and Santa Rosa is applying for Google’s ultra-fast Internet network for residents.

Like I said – living in Santa Rosa just keeps getting better and better…

Posted by:Beth Urban-Purtell