FOR SALE
→888 Petaluma, Petaluma
$1,495,000
MLS ID: 324062211
4 Separate Units
Unit A: 2 Bed/1 Bath
Unit A-1/2: 1 Bed/1 Bath
Unit B: 2 Bed/1Bath
Unit B-1/2: 2 Bed/1 Bath
Levels: Lower and Upper Levels
Lot: 4,792 sq. ft.
HOA: No
West Petaluma
Walk to Down Town
Live in one Rent The Others
6.60% Cap rate
$132,600 Gross Revenue
Lots of Renovations
New Electrical/Plumbing
Newer Roof
New Exterior Paint
Wood Floors
Modern Kitchens
Modern Baths
Period Detail
4-Plex For Sale
888 Petaluma Blvd. S.
4 Units, 7 Bedrooms, 4 Baths 2,597 sq. ft.
$1,495,000
This remarkable investment opportunity is located in the desirable West Petaluma area, known for its historic charm and vibrant community. Just minutes from Downtown Petaluma and with convenient freeway access, this renovated craftsman-style property consists of two structures: the primary home, which includes two 2-bedroom, 1-bath units, and a secondary building with a 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit plus a 1-bedroom, 1-bath unit. Together, these units generate over $131,000 in annual income, making this property an attractive option for investors, 1031 exchange buyers, or owner-occupants seeking additional income potential.
Two of the fully renovated units in the main house boast private yards, spacious rooms, built-in cabinetry, upgraded flooring, updated plumbing and electrical systems, stylish light fixtures, modern kitchen cabinetry, and new appliances. The bathrooms have been meticulously renovated as well. These units offer the flexibility to be converted back into a single-family residence, providing a unique opportunity for those looking to reside in one of Petaluma’s most sought-after neighborhoods.
Living in Petaluma: A Community Rich in Culture, Cuisine, and Outdoor Adventure
Petaluma is more than just a place to live—it's a community that offers an exceptional quality of life. Residents enjoy a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with a downtown area that is a hub for dining, arts, and entertainment. Petaluma’s historic downtown, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, features renowned eateries such as Central Market (42 Petaluma Blvd N) and Della Fattoria (141 Petaluma Blvd N), both celebrated for their farm-to-table dining experiences.
Petaluma also offers a thriving arts scene, with regular events like the monthly Petaluma Arts Alive, and cultural venues such as the Petaluma Arts Center (230 Lakeville St). Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city's proximity to Helen Putnam Regional Park (411 Chileno Valley Rd), offering scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as its short drive to the Sonoma Coast for beach outings. Additionally, the annual Butter & Egg Days Parade and Festival and the Fall Antique Faire are just a few of the community events that make Petaluma a vibrant and welcoming place to call home.
For more information about the city's offerings and events, visit Visit Petaluma and Downtown Petaluma. This property not only presents a fantastic investment opportunity but also provides a gateway to all that Petaluma has to offer.
MLS ID: 324062211
4 Separate Units
Unit A: 2 Bed/1 Bath
Unit A-1/2: 1 Bed/1 Bath
Unit B: 2 Bed/1Bath
Unit B-1/2: 2 Bed/1 Bath
Levels: Lower and Upper Levels
Lot: 4,792 sq. ft.
HOA: No
West Petaluma
Walk to Down Town
Live in one Rent The Others
6.60% Cap rate
$132,600 Gross Revenue
Lots of Renovations
New Electrical/Plumbing
Newer Roof
New Exterior Paint
Wood Floors
Modern Kitchens
Modern Baths
Period Detail
WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS
Timo Rivetti has been serving his clients with a highly individualized service tailored to specific needs and requirements since 1998. Unparalleled knowledge and expertise in the region is invaluable when it comes to buying and selling real estate. Hiring an agent who knows the area inside out makes all the difference in a competitive market. Timo and his team of experienced professionals work with each and every client to find and secure the perfect property at the best price, with all of the required amenities in the right neighborhood. When it’s time to make a move, call Timo.
I value 1:1 relationships and have the utmost respect for the work we do together. I love working collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. I am committed to transparency and integrity. Using my professional experience and motivated enthusiasm, I will work step-by-step with you to achieve the outcome you're seeking by developing a tailored marketing plan, briefly outlined below.
OUR
PHILOSOPHY
Better companies make better communities.
We believe our business has a responsibility to serve, connect, grow and protect the communities we operate in.
OUR VALUES
Independence is worth preserving.
Our independence matters more than our size. It allows us to prioritize our community involvement and better serve our agents and clients.
Social impact at the center.
Everything we do has a cause and effect. We maintain a responsibility to contribute to every community in which we operate.
Communities over shareholders.
If our business has to grow at the expense of the communities around us, it isn't worth it. It is important to us to continually invest in building community.
Growth for the sake of bigger impact.
We grow our business to become a stronger, independent network of individuals who benefit as a result of more resources.
Every Home Has A Story...
If you live here already, you know how blessed we are. If you're considering living or investing here, you've probably experienced some of the area's extraordinary possibilities: country settings and small-town communities; enthralling agricultural beauty, and true farm to fork lifestyle, If Northern California is your real estate destination, you've arrived at the right spot. Whether you're looking to buy your first home - or to sell an estate - expect nothing less from us than a Meritage blend of real estate expertise, professional service, creativity, and a passion for achieving your goals.
What My Clients Have To Say
You won’t find anyone who’s going to argue that mortgage rates have had a big impact on housing affordability over the past couple of years. But there is hope on the horizon. Rates have actually started to come down. And, recently they hit the lowest point we’ve seen in 2024, according to Freddie Mac (see graph below):
And if you’re thinking about buying a home, that may leave you wondering: how much lower are they going to go? Here’s some information that can help you know what to expect.
Expert Projections for Mortgage Rates
Experts say the overall downward trend should continue as long as inflation and the economy keeps cooling. But as new reports come out on those key indicators, there’s going to be some volatility here and there.
What you need to remember is it’s not wise to let those blips distract you from the larger trend. Rates are still down roughly a full percentage point from the recent peak compared to May.
And the general consensus is that rates in the low 6s are possible in the months ahead, it just depends on what happens with the economy and what the Federal Reserve decides to do moving forward.
Most experts are already starting to revise their 2024 mortgage rate forecasts to be more optimistic that lower rates are ahead. For example, Realtor.com says:
“Mortgage rates have been revised slightly lower as signals from the economy suggest that it will be appropriate for the Fed to begin to cut its Federal Funds rate in 2024. Our yearly mortgage rate average forecast is down to 6.7%, and we revised our year-end forecast to 6.3% from 6.5%.”
Know Your Number for Mortgage Rates
So, what does this mean for you and your plans to move? If you’ve been holding out and waiting for rates to come down, know that it’s already happening. You just have to decide, based on the expert projections and your own budget, when you’ll be willing to jump back in. As Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, says:
“The decline in mortgage rates does increase prospective homebuyers’ purchasing power and should begin to pique their interest in making a move.”
As a next step, ask yourself this: what number do I want to see rates hit before I’m ready to move?
Maybe it’s 6.25%. Maybe it’s 6.0%. Or maybe it’s once they hit 5.99%. The exact percentage where you feel comfortable kicking off your search again is personal. Once you have that number in mind, you don’t need to follow rates yourself and wait for it to become a reality.
Instead, connect with a local real estate professional. They’ll help you stay up to date on what’s happening and have a conversation about when to make your move. And once rates hit your target, they’ll be the first to let you know.
Bottom Line
If you’ve put your moving plans on hold because of higher mortgage rates, think about the number you want to see rates hit that would make you re-enter the market.
Once you have that number in mind, let’s connect so you have someone on your side to let you know when we get there.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ve probably got mortgage rates on your mind. That’s because you’ve likely heard that mortgage rates impact how much you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment, and you want to factor that into your planning. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates?
Mortgage rates have been trending down recently. While that’s good news for your homebuying plans, it’s important to know that rates can be unpredictable because they’re affected by many factors.
Things like the economy, job market, inflation, and decisions made by the Federal Reserve all play a part. So, even as rates go down, they can still bounce around a bit based on new economic data. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says:
“The ongoing deceleration in inflation, coupled with the Federal Reserve’s recent indication of potential rate cuts [in 2024], suggests an environment supportive of modest declines in mortgage rates. Barring any unforeseen circumstances and resurgence in inflation, lower mortgage rates could be on the horizon, but the journey towards them might be slow and bumpy.”
How Do These Changes Affect You?
When mortgage rates change, it affects how much you pay each month for your home loan. Even a small rate change can make a big difference to your monthly bill.
Take a look at the chart below to see how different mortgage rates impact your house payment each month for various loan amounts. Imagine you can afford a monthly payment of $2,600 for your home loan. The green part in the chart shows payments in that range or lower based on varying mortgage rates (see chart below):
Understanding how mortgage rates impact your payment helps you make better decisions.
How Can You Keep Track of the Latest on Rates?
Real estate agents have the expertise to help you understand what’s happening and what it means for you. They can provide tools and visuals, like the chart above, to show how rate changes impact your buying power.
You don’t need to be a mortgage expert; you just need a professional by your side. Someone who can help you make sense of the market and guide you through your homebuying or selling journey.
Bottom Line
If you have questions about the housing market, let’s connect. That way you’ll understand what’s going on and how to navigate it.
SOLD
→ 411 Jacquelyn Lane, Petaluma
$870,000
| MLS ID: 324006370
Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2.5 Square Feet: 1,989 Year Built: 2016 |
Lot Size: 933 sq. ft.
Subdivision: Quarry Heights Size: Multi Story Parking: 2 Car Garage HOA: Yes $332-monthly |
- End Unit
- Views
- Vaulted Ceilings
- Recessed Lighting
- Quartz Countertops
- Stainless Steel Appliances
- Walk In Pantry
- Dual HVAC
- 2 Car Garage
- Easy Access to Hwy 101
- Sport Courts
- Club House
With Navigate Real Estate, the process of selling homes and land transcends the conventional approach; it’s an artful orchestration of strategy, storytelling, and cutting-edge marketing techniques. Each property is meticulously assessed, and a tailored plan is strategized to ensure maximum exposure and appeal. This approach begins with understanding the unique features and selling points of the home, allowing us to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with potential buyers.
411 Jacquelyn Lane stands as a prime example. Sold by Timo Rivetti and the Rivetti Team, this meticulously marketed property exemplifies Navigate’s dedication to delivering results that exceed expectations.
HOW WE DO IT
- Starts With A Consultation
- 4kHD Video Walkthrough
- Schedule Broker Open
- Create Property Website
- Install For Sale Sign
- Send Through Navigate Network
- Strategically Stage Home
- Drone Airel Photo/Video
- Schedule Open House
- Mass Email Campaign
- Invite Neighbors
- Share Through Social Networks
- Professional Photography
- Professional Written Description
- Create Floor Plans
- Create Brochures
- Advertise your Home
- Folow Up On All Leads
Every Home Has A Story. ..
With our navi in-house marketing agency, we believe each property is different and requires a unique approach to marketing. We will work together and agree upon the best strategy for positioning your home for sale. We approach each real estate transaction differently – working diligently to ensure that each property has its own unique personality and purpose. Our team of designers, analysts, artists and technology gurus are constantly offering strategically driven marketing solutions and custom tailored work to meet the individual needs of our clients.
navi
WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS
Timo Rivetti has been serving his clients with a highly individualized service tailored to specific needs and requirements since 1998. Unparalleled knowledge and expertise in the region is invaluable when it comes to buying and selling real estate. Hiring an agent who knows the area inside out makes all the difference in a competitive market. Timo and his team of experienced professionals work with each and every client to find and secure the perfect property at the best price, with all of the required amenities in the right neighborhood. When it’s time to make a move, call Timo.
I value 1:1 relationships and have the utmost respect for the work we do together. I love working collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. I am committed to transparency and integrity. Using my professional experience and motivated enthusiasm, I will work step-by-step with you to achieve the outcome you're seeking by developing a tailored marketing plan, briefly outlined below.
OUR
PHILOSOPHY
Better companies make better communities.
We believe our business has a responsibility to serve, connect, grow and protect the communities we operate in.
OUR VALUES
Independence is worth preserving.
Our independence matters more than our size. It allows us to prioritize our community involvement and better serve our agents and clients.
Social impact at the center.
Everything we do has a cause and effect. We maintain a responsibility to contribute to every community in which we operate.
Communities over shareholders.
If our business has to grow at the expense of the communities around us, it isn't worth it. It is important to us to continually invest in building community.
Growth for the sake of bigger impact.
We grow our business to become a stronger, independent network of individuals who benefit as a result of more resources.
Every Home Has A Story...
If you live here already, you know how blessed we are. If you're considering living or investing here, you've probably experienced some of the area's extraordinary possibilities: country settings and small-town communities; enthralling agricultural beauty, and true farm to fork lifestyle, If Northern California is your real estate destination, you've arrived at the right spot. Whether you're looking to buy your first home - or to sell an estate - expect nothing less from us than a Meritage blend of real estate expertise, professional service, creativity, and a passion for achieving your goals.
What My Clients Have To Say
SOLD
→272 Cambridge Ln., Petaluma
$1,160,000
| MLS ID: 323930250
Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 2.5 Square Feet: 2589 Year Built: 2000 |
Lot Size: 5,908 sq. ft.
Subdivision: Victoria Size: Multi Story Parking: 2 Car Garage HOA: Yes $131.00 |
- Private Courtyard
- West Petaluma
- Comfort & Quality
- Across from Helen Putnam
- Vineyard & Scenic Views
- Modern Open Concept
- Spacious Bedrooms
- Downstairs Primary Bedroom
- Move In Ready
- New Paint interior & Exterior
- New Carpets
- Updated Light Fixtures
With Navigate Real Estate, the process of selling homes and land transcends the conventional approach; it’s an artful orchestration of strategy, storytelling, and cutting-edge marketing techniques. Each property is meticulously assessed, and a tailored plan is strategized to ensure maximum exposure and appeal. This approach begins with understanding the unique features and selling points of the home, allowing us to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with potential buyers.
272 Cambridge Lane stands as a prime example. Sold by Timo Rivetti and the Rivetti Team, this meticulously marketed property exemplifies Navigate’s dedication to delivering results that exceed expectations.
HOW WE DO IT
- Starts With A Consultation
- 4kHD Video Walkthrough
- Schedule Broker Open
- Create Property Website
- Install For Sale Sign
- Send Through Navigate Network
- Strategically Stage Home
- Drone Airel Photo/Video
- Schedule Open House
- Mass Email Campaign
- Invite Neighbors
- Share Through Social Networks
- Professional Photography
- Professional Written Description
- Create Floor Plans
- Create Brochures
- Advertise your Home
- Folow Up On All Leads
Every Home Has A Story. ..
With our navi in-house marketing agency, we believe each property is different and requires a unique approach to marketing. We will work together and agree upon the best strategy for positioning your home for sale. We approach each real estate transaction differently – working diligently to ensure that each property has its own unique personality and purpose. Our team of designers, analysts, artists and technology gurus are constantly offering strategically driven marketing solutions and custom tailored work to meet the individual needs of our clients.
navi
WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS
Timo Rivetti has been serving his clients with a highly individualized service tailored to specific needs and requirements since 1998. Unparalleled knowledge and expertise in the region is invaluable when it comes to buying and selling real estate. Hiring an agent who knows the area inside out makes all the difference in a competitive market. Timo and his team of experienced professionals work with each and every client to find and secure the perfect property at the best price, with all of the required amenities in the right neighborhood. When it’s time to make a move, call Timo.
I value 1:1 relationships and have the utmost respect for the work we do together. I love working collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. I am committed to transparency and integrity. Using my professional experience and motivated enthusiasm, I will work step-by-step with you to achieve the outcome you're seeking by developing a tailored marketing plan, briefly outlined below.
OUR
PHILOSOPHY
Better companies make better communities.
We believe our business has a responsibility to serve, connect, grow and protect the communities we operate in.
OUR VALUES
Independence is worth preserving.
Our independence matters more than our size. It allows us to prioritize our community involvement and better serve our agents and clients.
Social impact at the center.
Everything we do has a cause and effect. We maintain a responsibility to contribute to every community in which we operate.
Communities over shareholders.
If our business has to grow at the expense of the communities around us, it isn't worth it. It is important to us to continually invest in building community.
Growth for the sake of bigger impact.
We grow our business to become a stronger, independent network of individuals who benefit as a result of more resources.
Every Home Has A Story...
If you live here already, you know how blessed we are. If you're considering living or investing here, you've probably experienced some of the area's extraordinary possibilities: country settings and small-town communities; enthralling agricultural beauty, and true farm to fork lifestyle, If Northern California is your real estate destination, you've arrived at the right spot. Whether you're looking to buy your first home - or to sell an estate - expect nothing less from us than a Meritage blend of real estate expertise, professional service, creativity, and a passion for achieving your goals.
What My Clients Have To Say
SOLD
→ 409 2nd St, Petaluma
$929,000
| MLS ID: 21808895
Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3.5 Square Feet: 1,989 Year Built: 2005 |
Lot Size: 449 sq. ft.
Subdivision: celsius 44 Size: Multi Story Parking: 1 Car Garage HOA: Yes $?/Month |
- Stand Alone Unit
- Built 2008
- Remodeled Kitchen
- High-end Appliances
- Lofty Ceilings
- Multiple Balconies
- Single Car Garage
- Garage Storage
- Modern Finishes
- Wood F;ooring
- Open Concept Living
- Walk To Waterfront
With Navigate Real Estate, the process of selling homes and land transcends the conventional approach; it’s an artful orchestration of strategy, storytelling, and cutting-edge marketing techniques. Each property is meticulously assessed, and a tailored plan is strategized to ensure maximum exposure and appeal. This approach begins with understanding the unique features and selling points of the home, allowing us to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with potential buyers.
409 2nd Street stands as a prime example. Sold by Timo Rivetti and the Rivetti Team, this meticulously marketed property exemplifies Navigate’s dedication to delivering results that exceed expectations.
HOW WE DO IT
- Starts With A Consultation
- 4kHD Video Walkthrough
- Schedule Broker Open
- Create Property Website
- Install For Sale Sign
- Send Through Navigate Network
- Strategically Stage Home
- Drone Airel Photo/Video
- Schedule Open House
- Mass Email Campaign
- Invite Neighbors
- Share Through Social Networks
- Professional Photography
- Professional Written Description
- Create Floor Plans
- Create Brochures
- Advertise your Home
- Folow Up On All Leads
Every Home Has A Story. ..
With our navi in-house marketing agency, we believe each property is different and requires a unique approach to marketing. We will work together and agree upon the best strategy for positioning your home for sale. We approach each real estate transaction differently – working diligently to ensure that each property has its own unique personality and purpose. Our team of designers, analysts, artists and technology gurus are constantly offering strategically driven marketing solutions and custom tailored work to meet the individual needs of our clients.
navi
WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS
Timo Rivetti has been serving his clients with a highly individualized service tailored to specific needs and requirements since 1998. Unparalleled knowledge and expertise in the region is invaluable when it comes to buying and selling real estate. Hiring an agent who knows the area inside out makes all the difference in a competitive market. Timo and his team of experienced professionals work with each and every client to find and secure the perfect property at the best price, with all of the required amenities in the right neighborhood. When it’s time to make a move, call Timo.
I value 1:1 relationships and have the utmost respect for the work we do together. I love working collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. I am committed to transparency and integrity. Using my professional experience and motivated enthusiasm, I will work step-by-step with you to achieve the outcome you're seeking by developing a tailored marketing plan, briefly outlined below.
OUR
PHILOSOPHY
Better companies make better communities.
We believe our business has a responsibility to serve, connect, grow and protect the communities we operate in.
OUR VALUES
Independence is worth preserving.
Our independence matters more than our size. It allows us to prioritize our community involvement and better serve our agents and clients.
Social impact at the center.
Everything we do has a cause and effect. We maintain a responsibility to contribute to every community in which we operate.
Communities over shareholders.
If our business has to grow at the expense of the communities around us, it isn't worth it. It is important to us to continually invest in building community.
Growth for the sake of bigger impact.
We grow our business to become a stronger, independent network of individuals who benefit as a result of more resources.
Every Home Has A Story...
If you live here already, you know how blessed we are. If you're considering living or investing here, you've probably experienced some of the area's extraordinary possibilities: country settings and small-town communities; enthralling agricultural beauty, and true farm to fork lifestyle, If Northern California is your real estate destination, you've arrived at the right spot. Whether you're looking to buy your first home - or to sell an estate - expect nothing less from us than a Meritage blend of real estate expertise, professional service, creativity, and a passion for achieving your goals.
What My Clients Have To Say
SOLD
→ 7321 Calder Ave., Sebastopol
$790,000
| MLS ID: 324001182
Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Square Feet: 1,272 Year Built: 1954 |
Lot Size: 5,800 sq. ft.
Subdivision: Parquets Size: Single Story Parking: 1 Car Garage HOA: NO |
- Panoramic Views
- Vintage Aesthetics
- Charming Retreat
- Mid Century Design
- Redwood Trees
- Rear Bonus Room
- 1 Car Garage
- Built In Cabinets
- Prime Location
- Near Downtown
- Excellent Retreat Home
- Explore Sebastopol
With Navigate Real Estate, the process of selling homes and land transcends the conventional approach; it’s an artful orchestration of strategy, storytelling, and cutting-edge marketing techniques. Each property is meticulously assessed, and a tailored plan is strategized to ensure maximum exposure and appeal. This approach begins with understanding the unique features and selling points of the home, allowing us to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with potential buyers.
7321 Calder Ave stands as a prime example. Sold by Timo Rivetti and the Rivetti Team, this meticulously marketed property exemplifies Navigate’s dedication to delivering results that exceed expectations.
HOW WE DO IT
- Starts With A Consultation
- 4kHD Video Walkthrough
- Schedule Broker Open
- Create Property Website
- Install For Sale Sign
- Send Through Navigate Network
- Strategically Stage Home
- Drone Airel Photo/Video
- Schedule Open House
- Mass Email Campaign
- Invite Neighbors
- Share Through Social Networks
- Professional Photography
- Professional Written Description
- Create Floor Plans
- Create Brochures
- Advertise your Home
- Folow Up On All Leads
Every Home Has A Story. ..
With our navi in-house marketing agency, we believe each property is different and requires a unique approach to marketing. We will work together and agree upon the best strategy for positioning your home for sale. We approach each real estate transaction differently – working diligently to ensure that each property has its own unique personality and purpose. Our team of designers, analysts, artists and technology gurus are constantly offering strategically driven marketing solutions and custom tailored work to meet the individual needs of our clients.
WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS
Timo Rivetti has been serving his clients with a highly individualized service tailored to specific needs and requirements since 1998. Unparalleled knowledge and expertise in the region is invaluable when it comes to buying and selling real estate. Hiring an agent who knows the area inside out makes all the difference in a competitive market. Timo and his team of experienced professionals work with each and every client to find and secure the perfect property at the best price, with all of the required amenities in the right neighborhood. When it’s time to make a move, call Timo.
I value 1:1 relationships and have the utmost respect for the work we do together. I love working collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. I am committed to transparency and integrity. Using my professional experience and motivated enthusiasm, I will work step-by-step with you to achieve the outcome you're seeking by developing a tailored marketing plan, briefly outlined below.
OUR
PHILOSOPHY
Better companies make better communities.
We believe our business has a responsibility to serve, connect, grow and protect the communities we operate in.
OUR VALUES
Independence is worth preserving.
Our independence matters more than our size. It allows us to prioritize our community involvement and better serve our agents and clients.
Social impact at the center.
Everything we do has a cause and effect. We maintain a responsibility to contribute to every community in which we operate.
Communities over shareholders.
If our business has to grow at the expense of the communities around us, it isn't worth it. It is important to us to continually invest in building community.
Growth for the sake of bigger impact.
We grow our business to become a stronger, independent network of individuals who benefit as a result of more resources.
Every Home Has A Story...
If you live here already, you know how blessed we are. If you're considering living or investing here, you've probably experienced some of the area's extraordinary possibilities: country settings and small-town communities; enthralling agricultural beauty, and true farm to fork lifestyle, If Northern California is your real estate destination, you've arrived at the right spot. Whether you're looking to buy your first home - or to sell an estate - expect nothing less from us than a Meritage blend of real estate expertise, professional service, creativity, and a passion for achieving your goals.
What My Clients Have To Say
Mortgage rates have been one of the hottest topics in the housing market lately because of their impact on affordability. And if you’re someone who’s looking to make a move, you’ve probably been waiting eagerly for rates to come down for that very reason. Well, if the past few weeks are any indication, you may be getting your wish.
Mortgage Rates Trend Down in Recent Weeks
There’s big news for mortgage rates. After the latest reports on the economy, inflation, the unemployment rate, and the Federal Reserve’s recent comments, mortgage rates started dropping a bit. And according to Freddie Mac, they’re now at a level we haven’t seen since February. To help show the downward trend, check out the graph below:
Maybe you’re seeing this and wondering if you should ride the wave and see how low they’ll go. If that’s the case, here’s some important perspective. Remember, the record-low rates from the pandemic are a thing of the past. If you’re holding out hope to see a 3% mortgage rate again, you’re waiting for something experts agree won’t happen. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says:
“The hopes for lower interest rates need the reality check that ‘lower’ doesn’t mean we’re going back to 3% mortgage rates. . . the best we may be able to hope for over the next year is 5.5 to 6%.”
And with the decrease in recent weeks, you’ve got a big opportunity in front of you right now. It may be enough for you to want to jump back in.
The Relationship Between Rates and Demand
If you wait for mortgage rates to drop further, you might find yourself dealing with more competition as other buyers re-ignite their home searches too.
In the housing market, there’s generally a relationship between mortgage rates and buyer demand. Typically, the higher rates are, the lower buyer demand is. But when rates start to come down, things change. Buyers who were on the fence over higher rates will resume their searches. Here’s what that means for you. As a recent article from Bankrate says:
“If you’re ready to buy, now might be the time to strike. Home prices have been rising primarily because of a longstanding shortage of homes for sale. That’s unlikely to change, and if mortgage rates do fall below 6%, it’s possible buyers would enter the market en masse, further pushing up prices and resurrecting bidding wars.”
Bottom Line
If you’ve been waiting to make your move, the recent downward trend in mortgage rates may be enough to get you off the sidelines. Rates have hit their lowest point in months, and that gives you the opportunity to jump back in before all the other buyers do too.
Figuring out what to do with your house when you’re ready to move can be a big decision. Should you sell it and use the money for your next adventure, or keep it as a rental to build long-term wealth?
It’s a question many homeowners face, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re curious about the potential income from renting or worried about the responsibilities of being a landlord, there’s a lot to consider.
Let’s walk through some key questions to ask to help you make the best decision for your situation.
Is Your House a Good Fit for Renting?
Even if you’re interested in becoming a landlord, your current house might not be ideal for renting. Maybe you’re moving far away, so keeping up with the ongoing maintenance would be a hassle, the neighborhood isn’t great for rentals, or the house needs significant repairs before you could rent it out.
If any of this sounds like it might apply, selling might be your best option.
Are You Ready for the Realities of Being a Landlord?
Managing a rental property isn’t just about collecting rent checks. It’s a time-consuming and sometimes challenging job.
For example, you may get calls from tenants at all hours of the day with maintenance requests. Or you may find a tenant causes damage you have to repair before the next lease starts. You may even have to deal with people falling behind on payments or breaking their lease early. Investopedia highlights:
“It isn’t difficult to find horror stories of landlords troubled with more headaches than profits. Before deciding to rent, consider talking to other landlords and doing a detailed cost analysis. You might find that selling your home is a better financial decision and less stressful.”
Do You Have a Good Understanding of What It’ll Cost?
If you’re thinking about renting out your home primarily to generate extra income, remember that there are additional costs you’ll want to plan for. As an article from Bankrate explains:
- Mortgage and Property Taxes: You still need to pay these expenses, even if the rent doesn’t cover all of it.
- Insurance: Landlord insurance costs about 25% more than regular home insurance, and it’s necessary to cover damages and injuries.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Plan to spend at least 1% of the home’s value annually, more if the home is older.
- Finding a Tenant: This involves advertising costs and potentially paying for background checks.
- Vacancies: If the property sits empty between tenants, you’ll lose rental income.
- Management and HOA Fees: A property manager can ease the burden, but typically charges about 10% of the rent. HOA fees are an additional cost too, if applicable.
Bottom Line
To sum it all up, selling or renting out your home is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances. Whatever you decide, taking the time to evaluate your options will help you make the best choice for your future.
Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with professionals so you feel supported and informed as you make your decision. That’s what we’re here for.
Today’s headlines and news stories about home prices are confusing and make it tough to know what’s really happening. Some say home prices are heading for a correction, but what do the facts say? Well, it helps to start by looking at what a correction means.
Here’s what Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:
“In stock market terms, a correction is generally referred to as a 10 to 20% drop in prices . . . We don’t have the same established definitions in the housing market.”
In the context of today’s housing market, it doesn’t mean home prices are going to fall dramatically. It only means prices, which have been increasing rapidly over the last couple years, are normalizing a bit. In other words, they’re now growing at a slower pace. Prices vary a lot by local market, but rest assured, a big drop off isn’t what’s happening at a national level.
The Real Estate Market Is Normalizing
From 2020 to 2022, home prices skyrocketed. That rapid increase was due to high demand, low interest rates, and a shortage of homes for sale. But, that kind of aggressive growth couldn’t continue forever.
Today, price growth has started to slow down, which is a sign the market is beginning to normalize. The most recent data from Case-Shiller shows that after being basically flat for a couple of months last year, prices are going up at a national level – just not as quickly as before (see graph below):
The big takeaway? So far this year, there’s been a much healthier pace of price growth compared to the pandemic.
Of course, that’s what’s happening now, but you may be wondering what’s next for prices. Marco Santarelli, the Founder of Norada Real Estate Investments, says:
“Expert forecasts lean towards a moderation in home price growth over the next five years. This translates to a slower and more sustainable pace of appreciation compared to the breakneck speed witnessed in recent years, rather than a freefall in prices.”
It’s all about supply and demand. Increasing inventory plus limited buyer demand, due to relatively high mortgage rates, will continue to ease some of the upward pressure on prices.
What This Means for You
If you’re thinking about buying a home, slowing price growth is welcome news. Skyrocketing home prices during the pandemic left many would-be homebuyers feeling priced-out.
While it’s still a good thing to know the value of the home you buy will likely continue to go up once you own it, slowing price gains are making things feel more manageable. Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says:
“While housing affordability is low for potential first-time home buyers, slowing price appreciation and lower mortgage rates could help — so the dream of homeownership isn’t boarded up just yet.”
Bottom Line
At the national level, home prices are not going down. And most experts forecast they’ll continue growing moderately moving forward. But prices vary a lot by local market. That’s where a trusted real estate agent comes into play. If you have questions about what’s happening with prices in our area, reach out.
Timo Rivetti
Broker Assoc. Managing Partner
NavigateRE
707.477.8396
timo@rivettiteam.com
DRE Lic# 01240796
DRE Lic# 02221115
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