HOUSE & home REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE
Sonoma County’s Spring Market
Where median meets unaffordability IN THE MIDDLE — This Guerneville area property sold for $642,000 in March when the county’s median housing price was $638,000. It is a single bedroom, 1,686 sq. ft house. It was sold by Steve Cozza of Compass. Sonoma County’s housing market values are 7% below last year’s market with a slightly better inventory.
County home prices slowly declining but rental market stays tight as fire victims still scrambling for solutions
permits for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) with relaxed permit fees and requirements. The “supply and demandâ€? economic rule where there are more home seekers than available inventory is keeping prices elevated even as they By Rollie Atkinson reach for 40% of existing county households. Still, soften. Sonoma West Publishers the median price is 7% below last year’s level of The county’s median wage is $64,000 where it $685,000. For the same time period, the median would take a salary of $170,000 to make today’s onoma County’s housing market has looked housing price in California is $565,880, also down median housing price of $638,000 qualify as many dierent ways over the current decade by 5.9% from a year ago. aordable, according to a study by Patrick of Great Recession recovery, wildďŹ re The impact of losing 5,600 dwellings in the Kallerman, of the Bay Area Council Economic tragedies, record-low mortgage rates and recordOctober 2017 wildďŹ res is still driving large Institute. high rental rates. To describe it is like describing segments of the local housing market, including In March, according to Rick Laws, of Compass a giant elephant. The depiction you get depends keeping lumber and construction costs high for Real Estate, only 268 properties were sold in the on which part of the beast you touch — and when. both new home and remodel projects. entire county, much lower than the 367 that were This spring’s real estate market is being With many ďŹ re victims ďŹ lling the rental market sold one year ago in March 2017. deďŹ ned by slowing dropping list prices, early while they replace their previous homes, the “The overall Bay Area real estate market saw a stage of rebuilding from the October 2017 county’s rental prices remain at record-highs in slowdown beginning in early summer of 2018 and wildďŹ res and the other elephant in the room — just about all local communities. continued into early 2019,â€? said Ron Pavelka, of the lack of aordable housing solutions for many Local government leaders and partner housing Cloverdale’s Compass - PaciďŹ c Union households and families. organizations remain highly engaged with the International. “As the rains are leaving and the As of March 31, Sonoma County’s median housing aordability crisis and are working to housing price was $638,000, a price deemed out of fast-track new housing projects and a bevy of See Market Report Page 4
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HOUSE & Home Spring 2019
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1985 SONOMA COUNTY
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SAN FRANCISCO
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MARIN
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900 COLLEGE AVENUE, SANTA ROSA CA 95404 | 707.545.2000 | vanguardproperties.com DRE#01486075 Photo Credit: R. Brad Knipstein Photography
HOUSE & Home Spring 2019
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Market Report Continued from page one mustard seed is plentiful there is a resurgence of interest in purchasing existing inventory. This “pent-up” demand is a combination of factors including, fire victims looking to move out of their rental homes of the past several months along with greater bay area “escapees.” In Pavelka’s hometown Cloverdale market, only 68 properties are currently listed for sale. Cloverdale’s median housing price is $646,000. The priciest county market continues ot be Healdsburg at $1.23 million and the lowest is Windsor at $604,000. The Sebastopol area market currently has 90 listed properties for sale where the median price in
March was $911,000. Pavelka, Laws and other local real estate professionals all agree the remainder of the 2019 market will be active. “I think we will see a very brisk market,” said Pavelka. Besides home sales, the remodel market and custom design industry is also busy, partly fueled by wildfire recovery victims, but also a factor of local Baby Boomers “remaining in place.” Faced with too high rents and a tight inventory market, many county homeowners find this a good time to reinvest some of their home equity in improvements like outdoor living spaces, bath and kitchen remodels and adding an ADU on their property. California mortgage rates in March were at 4.27% for a 30-year fixed loan and 3.83% for a 5-year adjustable package.
Small but handsome: LEFF Construction Design Build of Sebastopol recently completed this accessory dwelling unit (ADU.)
HOUSE & Home Spring 2019 A special supplement to the April 25, 2019 edition of:
The Healdsburg Tribune The Windsor Times All contents are copyrighted by ©Sonoma West Publishers, Inc. PO Box 518, Healdsburg, CA 95448
HOUSE & RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW FOR THE FALL ISSUE! SE & HOU
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LEFF Construction Design Build
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Should you sell, move, or stay and remodel? Consider the Universal Design / Remaining-in-Place Approach to Help you Decide
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niversal design, also known as design for all, remaining in place, and aging in place is a design approach that ensures home environments will be safe, accessible, and comfortable for everyone, regardless of age, size, or ability. Remaining in Place: • Ensures that elders can access rooms, use kitchen counters, and navigate bathrooms with ease and comfort. • Creates safe spaces for young children, highly functional privacy for teens, and reachable work areas for those with limited mobility. • Designs and builds flexibility into your home, whether your family is growing or you finally have the house to yourselves. For LEFF, remaining in place always means design that is functional and beautiful. The functionality of universal design must also be warm, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing. Any life stage is a good time to incorporate the principals of remaining in place with design that accommodates needs at every age. Questions to ask if you are trying to decide whether to sell and move or remain in your home and remodel: Do you have a multigenerational family living together under one roof ? Elderly parents, toddlers, and teens all have similar needs, from accessibility to safety. Do you love your current neighborhood? Does it have safe, walkable areas to shopping, schools, or parks? Are you happy there, but your home does not fit your family’s needs? It’s much easier to change your home than it is to change your neighborhood. Remaining in place is a holistic approach that takes not only your home, but also your neighborhood and lifestyle into consideration. Are you or other family members over age 55 (or will be soon)? Nearly 90% of people over age 65 want to remain in place for as long as possible. Is anyone in your home having problems accessing the:
IMPROVED PLACE — Universal Design and remaining-in-place remodeling is experiencing an upswing. A recent NAHB survey found that 80% of remodeling firms did some form of work in that sector in Q4 2016, up 68% from 2013. This Universal Design bathroom is part of an award-winning (2017 NARI & MasterDesign/Qualified Remodeler) whole-home remodel project completed by LEFFConstruction.
Entryway, family room, or other levels of the house? Bathroom tub, shower, or sinks? Kitchen counters or stove? Modifications like a no-step entrance, multiple countertop heights, wide doorways, lever faucets, and a curbless shower with handheld adjustable shower head (see photo) can make a home much more accessible.. Next steps you can take to determine if remaining in place will work for your family: Walk through your home. Using principles of universal design, you can evaluate your existing environment and discover which areas could benefit from this approach. 1. Equitable Use The design is useful to people with diverse ages, needs, and abilities. 2. Flexibility in Use The design accommodates a wide
HOUSE & Home Spring 2019
range of individual preferences and abilities. 3. Simple and Intuitive Use It’s easy to understand how to use the design regardless of age, knowledge, language, or concentration level. 4. Perceptible Information The design communicates effectively to the user, regardless of the user’s sensory abilities (blindness, for example). 5. Tolerance for Error Hazards are minimized by the design. 6. Low Physical Effort The space can be used efficiently and comfortably, with minimum fatigue. 7. Size and Space for Approach and Use The space provides plenty of room for approach, reach, and usability, regardless of the user’s body size, posture, or mobility (wheelchair access, counter heights).
Questions? Need more information? We have 41 years of experience integrating sustainable design that enables families to live in their homes for generations. Give us a call at (707) 823-4899 or email vision@leffconstruction.com to talk about how we can help you and your family remain in place.
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Five simple ways to bring more color to your home More than just splashing paint can bring added contrasts to walls, floors and living spaces
room. Whether it's slightly different or drastically different is up to you. "I'm really into EasyCare Paint's French Coast color," says Styles. "Its strong blue hue makes a bold statement without being too harsh or overpowering." Add a rug: Transform a room in an instant with a vibrant rug. It will add the perfect touch of color and hen you look at your home's interiors, do you can even be changed out seasonally to bring new hues find yourself craving a refresh? If so, there's into the space. A rug with a bright color or pattern can no better time than the New Year to update help create the illusion of more space so don't be afraid your home with thoughtful design touches that to use one in a smaller room to open it up and make it embrace the power of color. more inviting. Color is a key component of interior design and a Start small: Many people are timid about color, so useful tool for updating any space. What's more, colors you can start small and incorporate a new, bold tone can convey many emotions - from calm to energetic with items like a coffee table accessory or oversized helping you create rooms that are perfectly reflective of pillows. You may find that your choice quickly becomes your personal tastes. a favorite piece in your home, plus you'll gain the Even though the possibilities are endless, color can confidence to add more color to other rooms, too. be intimidating. While you may like the use of color Introduce textures: Bringing in different colors when you see it online, in magazines or other people's and textures, such as a plush throw blanket or a woven homes, the uncertainty about how to incorporate it into basket, takes your space up a notch and adds another your own home may hold you back. Fortunately, a few visual layer. Since these aren't permanent fixtures in simple expert tips and tricks will have you using color the room, they offer an easy way to play around with like a pro in no time. colors to see what works best in the space. Lifestyle expert and EasyCare Paint Brand Embrace the unexpected: Bring in a bold pop of Ambassador Camille Styles knows the power of color in color by doing something unexpected, like painting the transforming spaces from bland to beautiful. She uses trim instead of the wall. color throughout her home to create rooms that are Whether you're looking to do a quick update or a stylish and unique and you too can transform your complete interior design overhaul, color makes a room favorite spaces by using her top tips to bring color into more dynamic and energized. From simple d√Šcor your home: pieces to bolder accent walls, bringing color into your Paint an accent wall: An accent wall commands home is a great way to refresh in the New Year. attention and creates depth in the space, becoming the focal point of the room. The color you choose can be For more color inspiration, visit any hue that's different from the other walls in the www.truevaluepaint.com. — BPT
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How to create an outdoor living space you can enjoy all year long Control the seasons with flexible spaces, with fire and water elements, too
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he dream of a perfect outdoor space where homeowners can enjoy the beauty of nature while still being completely comfortable is no longer limited to a specific climate or time of year. A one-of-a-kind, allseasons deck is possible if the right features are included in the design. The key is to combine features that protect from the elements, and then use the right materials to make it happen. Whether you're revamping an existing area, or creating a brand-new outdoor living space to enjoy all year long, the following deck additions can turn any project into an all-seasons oasis to enjoy with family and friends. Overhead covering on a deck can shield guests from the elements directly, as well as provide a scaffold for features such as a ceiling fan, which can cool the area in the warmer months and improve heated air flow during cooler months. Homeowners can choose from deck shades or awnings in a variety of materials to defend against rain and wind, or to reduce sun exposure and cool the area. A pergola is also a beautiful addition to a custom deck that doesn't provide full coverage like a roof or awning, but can serve as a solid framework for other features such as climbing vines or hanging plants that both provide cover and add ambiance to the outdoor
Smart designs can bring the outdoors indoors. oasis. Retractable walls are a high-tech option that allows for free air movement during the mild spring and fall, and protection from sun, wind, rain, snow and even bugs during the extreme summer and winter. Some luxury decks and patios utilize retractable glass walls for a defense against wind or rain that doesn't obstruct the view. A more common tactic is to install retractable screen walls, which can be motorized, and are meant primarily to keep insects out of the patio area. Retractable privacy walls, usually in the form of canvas or polyester fabric horizontal shades, can provide a respite from weather and enhance the feeling of a private sanctuary.
Composite decking is growing in popularity across the U.S. not only for its lower maintenance requirements, but also its unparalleled beauty that can emulate anything from the rustic beauty of reclaimed wood to the high-impact look of exotic hardwoods. Incorporate the elements into the deck in a controlled way to boost enjoyment of an outdoor living space regardless of the season. For colder months, adding a fire element can provide a cozy and mesmerizing focal point. Arranging comfortable seating around a fireplace or fire pit provides a great place to gather with friends and family and provide warmth on a cool summer night or fall weekend. During the hotter months, installing a water element to the deck can provide a cooling touch and a visual centerpiece. Fountains, misters, or even a lap pool can provide a welcome respite from the heat during the summer, and a soothing, meditative backdrop for the rest of the year. Although decks are generally a mild-weather attraction, there are many ways to make an outdoor living space functional and enjoyable during the rest of the year, regardless of the geographic location. Transform a deck into an allseasons sanctuary through the use of special features and beautiful low-maintenance composite decking to make the most of the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing the comfort and style of your unique outdoor retreat. — BPT
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HOUSE & Home Spring 2019
Six features luxury home buyers desire
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odern trends in luxury homes are not just about location, size or specific decor, but reflecting the sophistication of their buyers. Buyers in today’s high-end home market desire innovative features that enhance their quality of life, provide extra touches of relaxation and use smart technology to increase safety and security. • Luxurious outdoor spaces Today's luxury home buyers want more than just a patio and pool. Outdoor spaces with unique, extensive seating areas for homeowners to relax and entertain are a must. This might also mean specially designed water features like TOP OF THE MARKET — Kitchens a professional chef would find at home, have become a standard feature in homes that rate in the top level of current housing markets. In-home ponds or fountains to create a zenlike experience, plus a fire pit or even gym rooms and bathrooms that rival spas are other desired elements. a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, for people to gather and socialize warmers and even heated toilet seats. been a must-have in the finest homes, outdoors. Bathrooms with a view are a recent modern state-of-the-art kitchens for • Bathrooms that rival a spa trend, appealing to homebuyers in the gourmet and gourmand alike The finest luxury home bathrooms terms of their natural lighting and require the most high-tech, now resemble five-star resort spas. enhanced ambiance. Natural stone commercial quality appliances. Desired elements might include a and wood elements create a beautiful Would-be sommeliers look for a large standalone or sunken tub, effect seldom seen in bathrooms in climate-controlled wine fridge or walk-in showers — with enough the past. cellar, and java lovers want the space for two — complete with • Kitchens fit for a chef highest quality coffee brewers or seating, radiant heated floors, towel While top-notch kitchens have always espresso machines. And the kitchens
should look as great as they perform. • Enhanced privacy, security and technology Luxury homeowners expect the best use of modern technology to ensure their safety and peace of mind, including everything from outdoor surveillance cameras with night vision, safe rooms, back-up generators and automated security systems. Smart home features that connect homeowners easily to their appliances, security and entertainment systems are also increasingly expected in luxury homes. • State-of-the-art gyms Fitness facilities in modern luxury homes are not just about the latest workout equipment. Today's fitness fanatic wants a flat screen TV for workout videos, built-in speakers for music plus a spa or indoor lap pool. • Unique design elements Today’s luxury homebuyers are attracted by special design finishes such as textured accent walls using reclaimed wood, shiplap, stone, tile or brick. Even unique wallpaper with a European flare is showing up on the walls of modern luxury homes. — BPT
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Downsizing as you age: seven smart organization tips and tricks Getting older means traveling lighter as you reach retirement
important to consider safety factors as you age. Clutter is a trip hazard for seniors, so keep this in mind as you go through items. It might be time to
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t’s easy to accumulate a lot of things throughout your life. From clothes and household goods to antiques and treasured keepsakes, decades of living often means decades of stu. When you get to a certain age, it can be smart to start downsizing your belongings. Sometimes downsizing is inspired by a move and other times it’s simply a proactive eort to keep a home clutter-free and make things easier for the next chapter of life. Although it can feel overwhelming, with a few smart steps, the process can be easy and even enjoyable. Use these eight tips to get started: Sort it out: Creating a system before organizing and downsizing can help the process go smoother. This can be as simple as getting large boxes and labeling them with Keep, Donate, Gift or Throw Away. Enlist some help: Ask your spouse or kids to help you go through your items and decide what to keep and what to get rid of. Some items that you ďŹ nd diďŹƒcult to part with may not be things that your children want: books, ďŹ gurines, antique furniture and silver servingware. Keep a few meaningful mementos, but consider parting with the items your kids aren’t interested in inheriting. Think about safety: Whether you’re moving into a new home or preparing to age in place, it’s
LESS HOME, MORE SPACE — Downsizing in place or in a new, smaller home can offer more living space if you commit to getting organized and shedding a few unnecessaries.
get rid of throw rugs, exposed cords and cut down on end table clutter to make room for a lamp that provides extra light. Consider your new space: If you’re moving, evaluate how much space you will have in your new home to help decide what to keep. That massive claw-foot couch might not be suitable for a modest living room. Smaller storage space might mean getting rid of clothing you haven’t worn for over a year or consolidating printed photographs by transferring them into digital ďŹ les and storing online for easy access by family. Peruse paperwork: Take this opportunity to get paperwork in order. Invest in a ďŹ le cabinet and organize important documents, such as your will and advanced care directives. It’s also smart to have electronic records of these types of documents and have a conversation with loved ones who need to be aware of their existence. Make some money: After you have sorted through all the rooms in your home, consider having a garage or estate sale. This is a great way to make extra money o of things you otherwise no longer use. Alternatively, take items to a consignment store or sell your goods online using a site like eBay, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Support a good cause: Take your unwanted items to a family in need or a local nonproďŹ t. These can beneďŹ t a number of good causes you can feel good about. List items and get a donation slip so you can consider it as a deduction come tax time. No matter the speciďŹ c reason, it can feel great to downsize and organize your belongings. — BPT
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HOUSE & Home Spring 2019
ealdsburg Floor Coverings is a local, full-service floor covering store that provides you with quality materials, people you can trust and a price that is fair. The employee-owned company sells and installs almost every floor covering imaginable — both residential and commercial — including carpet, hardwood, laminate, linoleum, ceramic and porcelain tile, vinyl tiles and plank. Locally owned for over 16 years, Healdsburg Floor Covering’s newly remodeled showroom includes many new products as well as an expanded tile selection while providing a comfortable, friendly atmosphere that exemplifies their way of doing business: “Big Enough to Serve You, Small Enough to Care.” They are also active in their communities, supporting local organizations and giving back with their time and energy. Healdsburg Floor Coverings prides itself on customer satisfaction. They run an efficient operation that allows them to price competitively. The owners, George, Tim and Travis, are in the showroom, and they can beat or match the bids from the big box stores plus their commitment to quality is superior. Shop local and shop Healdsburg Floor Coverings, open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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1423 Grove Street • Healdsburg • 433-8008 • www.healdsburgfloors.com HOUSE & Home Spring 2019
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GRAHAM SARASY | 707.431.8822
SOLD | Flax Ranch | Healdsburg | $15,250,000 | Buyer
SOLD | Big River Ranch | Healdsburg | $7,500,000 | Seller
SOLD | Kick Ranch | Rincon Valley | $6,600,000 | Seller
SOLD | Dry Creek Valley | Healdsburg | $4,000,000 | Seller
SOLD | Dry Creek | Healdsburg | $3,550,000 | Seller/Buyer
SOLD | Dry Creek| Healdsburg | $3,000,000 | Buyer
THE BLACK RANCH VINEYARD ESTATE | DRY CREEK VALLEY
HEALDSBURG COTTAGES | DOWNTOWN HEALDSBURG
The Black Ranch Vineyard Estate is 106± acres, 7± miles from downtown Healdsburg and features panoramic views, 3 residences, 4 cabins, a large shop, Dry Creek live water frontage and 70± acres of high production vineyards. Currently undergoing a subdivision to create 4 legal parcels with exclusive sites to build luxury homes and create your own legacy!
One-of-a-kind residential compound 2± blocks from the central Plaza. 3 recently remodeled and fully furnished luxury cottages on 2 legal parcels. The favorable CD zoning allows flexibility of use including overnight and short term rentals.
AVAILABLE | $14,995,000 | BlackRanchVineyardEstate.com
SALE PENDING | $2,950,000 | DowntownHealdsburgCottages.com
CONSULT WITH THE EXPERT WHO KNOWS YOUR LOCAL MARKET
Graham Sarasy CalDRE 01110863 707.431.8822 graham.sarasy@sothebysrealty.com © MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated. 709 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg Ca. CalDRE# 02025375
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HOUSE & Home Spring 2019