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(707) 477-8396


  • Home
  • Newsletter
  • Timo's Properties
  • Recently SOLD
  • Testimonials
  • Newsletter 2021 Archive
  • Newsletters 2020 Archive
  • Newsletters 2019 Archive

May 2022 Newsletter

CALIFORNIA MEDIAN PRICE SETS A NEW RECORD AMIDST LIGHTENING FAST MARKET CONDITIONS

The statewide median home price surpassed $800k for the first time in six months and recorded a new high of $849,080 in March. California’s housing market continues to be one of the most robust the U.S. According to Realtor.com, here in the Petaluma area the median home price in March was recorded at $926.900, trending up 16% year-over-year. 


With interest rates remaining on the rise, however, mortgage applications have declined since a first slow-down in early February. “Higher mortgage rates and double-digit growth in home prices have impacted the housing demand momentum and the effect on soaring home prices may become evident in a couple of months,” says Timo, "Though maybe not so much in the Petaluma area. Sellers have enjoyed the brisk winter/spring sales season, whereas a lot of buyers have been sitting it out waiting for the market to settle this summer.” 


Meanwhile rents continue to surge to record-level gains. “Supply shortage in the sales and rental market in the south county have impacted rising prices,” says Timo. “Perspective home hunters are caught between a rock and a hard place currently with renting vs buying. I understand the challenges and frustration buyers experience. I’m committed to finding the right property for those in the market to secure a home that represents a good investment in the long term.” 


Given that there is such competition for homes in the Petaluma area, Timo expects the market to remain heated throughout the summer months and into fall. It’s too early to say what 2023 will look like given the Fed’s move to balance the economy. 


And yet: “It’s likely to remain a hot seller’s market as there just are not enough homes to satisfy the buyer pool,” says Timo. “If you are thinking of selling this year, then why wait? Most homes are selling as soon as they hit market, if not before.”

CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTOR’S AFFORDABILITYINDEX & HOUSING MARKET OVERVIEW

·A minimum annual income of $148,000 was needed to qualify for the purchase of a $797,470 statewide median-priced, existing single-family home in the fourth quarter of 2021.


·The monthly payment, including taxes and insurance on a 30-year, fixed-rate loan, would be $3,700, assuming a 20 percent down payment and an effective composite interest rate of 3.28 percent. 


·The effective composite interest rate was 3.07 percent in third-quarter 2021 and2.96 percent in fourth-quarter 2020. 


·A minimum annual income of $148,000 was needed to make monthly payments of$3,700 


·It included principal, interest, and taxes on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at a 3.28percent interest rate. 


·Thirty-six percent of home buyers were able to purchase the $610,350 median-priced condo or townhome. 


·A minimum annual income of $113,200 was required to make a monthly payment of $2,830. 


·The Central Coast had the highest year-over-year price gain of 20.4 percent, with the median price being $1,050,000. 


·The San Francisco Bay Area had a year-over-year price gain of 17.9 percent, with the median price being $1,444,720. (Petaluma’s gain was 16%) 


·Southern California had a year-over-year price gain of 13.8 percent, with the median price being $802,500. 


·The Central Valley had a year-over-year price gain of 19.3 percent, with the median price being $495,000. 


·The Far North had a year-over-year gain of 12.9 percent, with the median price being $395,000. 


·The Los Angeles Metro Area had a year-over-year price gain of 13.2 percent, with the median price being $770,000. 


·Inland Empire had a year-over-year price gain of 17.2 percent, with the median price being $580,000.

WHAT GOES WHERE IN YOUR COMPOST CART?

Recology Waste Zero accepts all food scraps, soiled paper and plants in the green compost cart. Do not place compostable material in plastic or compostable plastic bags. Paper bags are acceptable. Petaluma Market and most local super markets are now stocking compostable paper bags for food waste. 


Go below for a what goes where list if you’re still a little confused about the new guidelines and restrictions. https://www.recology.com/recology-sonoma-marin/petaluma/what-goes-where/

ASPARAGUS, TUNA & WHITEBEAN SALAD

  • 1 large bunch asparagus 
  • 2 x cans yellowfin tuna steaks in water, drained
  • 2 x cans cannellini beans in water, drained 
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped 
  • 2 tbsp capers
  • 1 tbsp olive oil 
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 
  • 2 tbsp tarragon, finely chopped


Cook the asparagus in a large pan of boiling water for 4-5 mins until tender. Drain well, cool under running water, then cut into finger-length pieces. Toss together the tuna, beans, onion, capers and asparagus in a large serving bowl. Mix the oil, vinegar and tarragon together, then pour over the salad. Chill until ready to serve.

April 2022 Newsletter

PETALUMA AREA HOME PRICES REACH A NEW HIGH THIS SPRING — DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS SELLER’S MARKET

Petaluma area housing market’s record, red-hot April

home prices are surpassing even the most seasoned of

real estate agent’s expectations.


“After the past couple of years of skyrocketing home

price growth in the area, I’m not alone in the local real

estate community in saying that I’ve been taken aback in

monitoring the current crazy market and what buyers

are prepared to pay,” says Timo. “Closings in the

Petaluma area are coming in at record over-asking

prices. It’s nuts if you’re a buyer, or representing buyers,

but perspective sellers are super smart to take note.”


A severe housing shortage throughout a highly desirable area and still relatively low interest rates have pushed closing prices sky-high this April.


“Affordability is a growing concern,” says Timo. “But if you’re in the seller’s seat in


Sonoma County then this is as good a time as any in regional real estate history to put your Petaluma home on the market.”


Despite inflation, increasing food and gas costs, property taxes and insurance, already elevated housing prices are not putting people off bidding top-dollar for limited supply and record demand in desirable Petaluma and surrounding area.


“California as a whole remains the most valuable housing market in the country,” says Timo. “And the statewide median price is anticipated to rise through the Spring buying season.” According to California Association of Realtors, housing prices are expected to continue to rise with market competition intensifying.


“And homes around here are flying off the sales shelf extremely fast,” says Timo. “So, the question  is, where are you going to go if you do decide that now’s the golden time to sell?” 


This Spring, each major region of California has seen home prices continue to rise from this time  last year. “It’s a time to get creative,” says Timo. “You’re going to need help in thinking out of  the box if you’re to capitalize on selling your home for record top dollar.”  


This comes at a time when baby-boomers are preparing to enter retirement which will hopefully make  for more properties coming on the market. 


“If you’re looking at your options post-retirement, now is a good a time to start having the  conversations about when to sell your property,” says Timo. “Maybe you have a rental you’d consider  updating and moving into short term. There are strategies for protecting your investment with all  your real estate holdings.” 


Timo is happy to talk timing and potential options even if you’re not sure you are ready to list. 


“I’ve had a ton of experience in the local market with sellers making all kinds of interesting  moves this past couple of years,” he says. “I’ve never seen prices like these being recorded currently. If you’re ready to cash out, 2022 is the time.” 



IS THIS A GOOD TIME TO SELL MY RENTAL PROPERTY?

While it is great to have good income coming in from rental property that most likely has gained in significant value as an investment over the years, there’s no denying that rental property ownership is a lot of work and responsibility.

Sometimes the need to sell is a case of having undergone a major life event and you need less stress and/or need the equity.


If you are aged 59.5 or over and time is more of a premium for you than future property value, then it may be a wise move to sell, simplify life and enjoy a handsome profit while the high-priced property market is in such short supply.


“Diversifying property holdings into other ways of earning passive income is especially appealing if you’re about to or already are receiving Social Security,” says Timo. “It may be better to sell your rental property and save on property management headaches by cashing out and reinvesting the 

proceeds.”


“There comes a point in every rental owner’s life where you don’t have the energy to deal with maintenance and tenant issues,” says Timo. “The profit you earn now may outweigh the future property value growth while accessing equity.”   There’s an influx of buyers in the Petaluma area looking for properties to fix up. If you don’t have the time or energy to ready a rental for market, chances are it will be snapped

up anyway in its as-is condition.


“I recommend talking to your tax and investment advisors with regards to capital gains tax on rental properties,” says Timo. “If you make a profit on the sale of an investment property after owning it for a year or more, you will owe long-term capital gains tax at a rate up to 20% depending on your income and filing status.”


And if indeed, you still decide to cash in, Timo would welcome a chance to talk strategy and timing with you.


Alternatively, if you decide to convert your rental property into your primary residence after selling your own home, you may avoid capital gains taxes but will have to live in the former rental for at least two more years before qualifying for an exclusion in profit.

SIX WAYS TO PLAN A MORE SUSTAINABLE SPRING CELEBRATION

Plastic eggs, cheap baskets made for one-time use, foil and plastic wrapped candy, Seasonal holiday merchandise can be terribly wasteful and bad for the environment. As we look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint throughout the year, holidays are especially good times to cut back on items that 

aren’t earth-friendly.


When celebrating seasonal gatherings, start planning with more environmental conscious ideas for decorating and entertaining.


If you are hosting a brunch or gathering this April, here are six easy ways to change things up for the better:


1. Make Natural Easter Egg Dye — ditch the store-bought kits and make your own natural egg dyes in  pretty hues from left over onion skins, red cabbage, Turmeric. Eggs shouldn’t be out of the fridge  for over two hours if eating them. 


2. Instead of hiding plastic or real eggs for a hunt, how about  hiding small items and toys that will bring joy or be useful for a long time? Small, reusable bags  filled with jelly beans or similar is another sweet idea. 


3. Make reusable or recyclable baskets to bring out each spring or add to the recycle bin, crafting  can be fun and creative ... moss, shredded paper/newspaper for filling. 


4. Abandon Single-Use Plastics —  disposable knives/forks, grocery bags, zip-locks bags and plastic water bottles. There are many fun  re-usable options available. 


5. Skip Individually Wrapped Eggs & Candy — brightly colored foil coating  on chocolate eggs and bunnies creates thousands of tons of Easter Egg packaging in the US each  year. 


6. Create a Re-plantable Table-scape — why not purchase spring plants and herbs that you can add to  your garden after your holiday table has been cleared? Decorating with planter pots that you already have in your potting shed? Moss, lichen, foraged  fruits and natural items make for a lovely, natural and sustainable setting. If you are hosting a brunch or gathering this April, here are six easy ways to change things up for  the better. 

SPRING PANZANELLA

A lovely mix of greens, vegetables and herbs. Perfect for lunch, brunch or paired with a spring soup for dinner ...


  • 1/2 small loaf stale sourdough bread
  • 4 tbsp. olive oil, divided
  • 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard 
  • Kosher salt and pepper
  • 2 scallions, white and light green parts finely chopped, dark green parts thinly sliced
  • 2 cucumbers, halved lengthwise and then sliced
  • 1/2 c. fresh or frozen peas (thawed if frozen)
  • 2 c. mixed fresh herbs
  • Mixed garden greens


1. Heat oven to 400°F. Cut crusts off bread and tear into large pieces. On rimmed baking sheet, toss bread with 1 tablespoon oil and roast until golden brown, about 10 minutes. 


2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, remaining oil and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper; stir in chopped scallions. 


3. Add cucumber and toss to coat, then toss with toasted bread. Add peas, herbs and greens and toss gently to combine.

March 2022 Newsletter

BUCKLE YOUR SEATBELTS FOR A BUSY & COMPETITIVE SPRING REAL ESTATE MARKET

This year remains a seller’s market and the Spring homebuying season is expected to be a busy one. “Inventory shortages are expected to drive the market,” says Timo. “The thing people want and need most in today’s uncertain world is a solid home base.” 


California housing market remained resilient in January and February despite rising interest rates and global unrest, California Association of Realtors reports. Housing demand remains strong by pre-pandemic standards and new purchase applications are still registering solid numbers.


“While statewide, January’s median home price this year was $765,580, down 3.9 percent from December and up 9.4 percent from January last year, Sonoma County’s median home price is currently listed a little over the California average, at $789,000 this January. This represents a $5,000 drop from the December 2021 median home price and a $74,000 increase from January 2021. 


“The local housing market has kicked off the new year with a bounce back in sales from December’s four-month low, as housing demand by pre-pandemic standards remains extremely buoyant,” says Timo. “As always, we are in need of more supply, locally.” 


Newly released industry figures show Sonoma County as more or less holding its ground with average home prices from year-end, whereas neighboring Napa and Marin counties are seeing more of a noticeable decrease from last December’s soaring median.


Napa’s median this January was recorded at $884,000, close to $40,000 over last January’s average  price, but down $1,050 from in December. Marin’s January 2022 median home price was $1,450,000,  down $60,000 from December, but still up $100,000 from January 2021.  


“Basically, Sonoma County represents a highly competitive market for homebuyers who are also  looking at neighboring counties,” says Timo. “San Francisco’s January median was $1,630,000 , San  Mateo $2,000,000 and Santa Clara $1,700,000, so given the appeal of countrified-living, it doesn’t  look likely that we’ll see a decline in Sonoma County home values any time soon.”  According to Realtor.com In January 2022, the median listing home price in Petaluma was $872K,  trending up 6.7% year-over-year. The median home sold price was $835. 


“If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines hoping that prices will drop, now is a good time to  reconsider the options affordable to you,” suggests Timo. “It will be better for buyers if home  prices don’t creep up too high this year. Certainly, any increasing inventory should help.”  Raising mortgage rates and potential prices will affect the buying power of most home hunters in  the coming months. “Be sure to have your ducks in a row, whether buying or selling in this hot  market,” says Timo. “Securing your comfort level is key.” 


It takes time to ready a home for market with material backlogs and busy contractors. “If you’re  thinking of listing your home in the coming year, let’s talk about what you should be doing and  planning for now,” says Timo. 


And if you or someone you know is looking at houses in the Petaluma area, don’t hesitate to get in  touch for current market and coming to market information. It’s a competitive arena, Timo and the  team are ready to go to work to find your ideal home. 



  • The median number of days it took to sell a California single-family home was 12 days in January and 11 days in January 2021.


  • The statewide average price per square foot for an existing single-family home remained elevated. January’s price per square foot was $372, up from $331 in January a year ago. Petaluma’s median listing home price per square foot was $517. 


  • The 30-year, fixed-mortgage interest rate averaged 3.45 percent in January, up from 2.74 percent in January 2021, according to Freddie Mac. The five-year, adjustable mortgage interest rate averaged 2.57 percent, compared to 2.87 percent in January 2021.

Interior Design Tips and Trends for Spring

Spring is the season not just for a good clear-out, but also for an interior refresh. From the growing importance of sustainable materials to elegant elements and a celebration of individuality and uniqueness, this year’s wallpapered and mural walls transport us to faraway lands filled with leafy palms and safari animals.


Patterns of far-flung places provide a sense of escapism and make us feel relaxed as we are reminded of holidays,’ says Johanna Bright, head of design at Osborne & Little. ‘Distant landscapes and flora and fauna add a sense of drama to the wall and offer an alternative from the outside world, which we are all craving,’ says Designers Guild’s Tricia Guild. 


This year, decorators are looking backwards and forwards, by several millennia to times that are surprisingly similar to each other. In interiors this translates to rough forms, the simply handcrafted and objects that are connected to ceremony and symbolism of a slower, more mindful way of living. 


Celebrated design names are lining up to put their mark on the floor as we enter what Homes and Gardens declares to be the year of the rug. Bringing warmth and comfort underfoot, how about a new statement rug to complete your decorating scheme in style? We especially love our rugs at home by Petaluma-based designer Emma Gardner. Emma’s rugs are featured in designer homes and hotels around the world. emmagardnerdesign.com 


After such a long period of isolation, it’s not surprising we’re drawn to nature. Landscape-inspired tones are set to dominate. The future looks bright as a new generation of sustainable textiles gather pace. 


With Pantone having recently announced ‘Very Peri’, a bold blue-violet hue, as its color of the year 2022, this vibrant, fun-loving color is cropping up everywhere. ‘As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved blue color family,’ explains Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute. We’ll take her word for it! 


Alternatively, the country house style never goes out of fashion. At the moment, designers are keen on the Swedish look of blending antiques with charming wallpapers and sweet illustrations. Sad to say since so many of us have navy and gray featuring large in our interiors, but according to designer trends, they’re now on their way out. Cobalt blue is predicted as the top-ranking tone for 2022. Paintbrushes at the ready?

RE/MAX 2021RECOGNITION

Thank you to all our clients for helping us achieve the exclusive Diamond Club Award representing the Top 1% of 62,000+ agents in the nation in addition to being #1 in Sonoma County and the North Bay. We appreciate and are grateful for your continued loyalty and referrals.


We are always looking for properties to list, especially in a hot market like we are in. If you or anyone you know is looking to sell, please have them contact me today for a no obligation consultation. Looking to buy out of the area? We can also provide a referral agent anywhere in the U.S. for a replacement, investment, family/friend or additional personal property.

DERUNY — POTATO PANCAKES

One of the few positive aspects to emerge from the current situation in Ukraine has been an  increase in the world’s awareness of the Ukrainian culture — food especially. To stand in  solidarity with the people of Ukraine, our March recipe is for classic potato pancakes, made with  finely grated, raw potatoes and onion.  According to thekitchencommunity.org, traditional Ukrainian dishes are derived from ancient peasant  meals that made use of plentiful grain resources such as rye, as well as essential vegetables such  as potatoes, cabbages, mushrooms, and beetroot.


  • 5 medium size potatoes (about 1.5 lb) 
  • 1 onion 
  • 1 egg 
  • 3 Tbsp. of all-purpose flour
  •  1 Tbsp. of sour cream 
  • 1 tsp of salt and pepper to taste 
  • oil (for frying) 


Prep all the ingredients. Peel potatoes and onion. Grate potatoes and onion into a big bowl. Onion  juice will keep potatoes from browning. Add flour, egg, sour cream and mix well before adding 1tsp  of salt and black pepper. Batter should be liquid enough to easily ladle. Warm up skillet with 2-3  Tbsp. of oil over medium/high heat. Add 1 heaping Tbsp. of mixture at a time and fry on one side  until golden brown in color, then flip to other side and fry for the same amount of time. Repeat  the same procedure for the rest of the batter. Serve warm with sour cream. 

February 2022 Newsletter

HOME BUYERS EAGER TO LOCK INRATES AS SELLER PROFITS SURGE

Interest rates are expected to resume their upward trend in the coming weeks, which is fueling additional urgency amongst would- be homebuyers over the near term.


Meanwhile, the number of homes being added to the MLS in the Petaluma area each week remains relatively low.


“Buyers are watching mortgage rates closely,” says Timo. “Some are arranging rate locks for 30 to  45 days to ensure the stability of their mortgage rate as they shop for the right home.” This way,  if interest rates do continue to rise, buyers may shop at a slightly less frantic pace, knowing  they have a set rate in place.  


For some, the peace of mind of a long rate lock may be worth the extra cost to hold that interest  rate. The longer the rate lock hold, the more it costs. According to a report in the National Association of Realtors Magazine this month, many buyers,  nationwide are also looking at buying down their interest rate by paying points to get a more  attractive rate.


“Lenders may offer an option to pay a lump sum up front to lower the interest rate over the life of  a loan. One discount point, in general, costs 1% of the total mortgage and could lower the interest  rate by around 0.25%. Purchasing points could save tens of thousands and even hundreds of thousands  of dollars over the life of a loan, lenders say, for buyers nervous about rising rates.” 


And yet, Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of forecasting at the National Association  of REALTORS®, tells buyers not to panic about rates. Although The Federal Reserve last week announced it would raise its interest rates in March to help  mitigate inflation, mortgage rates typically follow the trend of the 10-year Treasury yield and not  the Fed’s key benchmark short- term rates, although the latter can influence mortgage rates. 


NAR predicts the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage will rise this year and average 3.9% by the end of the  year. Thirty-year rates currently average 3.55%. “Even with this increase, mortgage rates remain  near historic lows,” says Timo. “And it is homeowners who are seeing the soaring profits when they  sell.” According to recent reports, home sellers nationwide saw a profit of $94,092 on a typical  home sale in 2021. “Seller profits have surged at considerably higher rates in most California  markets, including Sonoma County,” says Timo. “2022 continues to be a great time to sell.” 


Don’t miss out on the market this Spring ... Call Timo today on 707.477.8396 


920 I Street - Palm Springs on the West Side

Come check out our fabulous listing! 

This updated Mid Century - Eichler style single level home is 

on the West side with a private courtyard/ inground pool, gorgeous new master suite addition, updated kitchen and more! A wonderful 3 bedroom, 3 bath 2000 sq. ft. property with many updates and added features for your buyers. Situated on a lovely 8053 sq. ft. lot with a private patio that 

backs up to Thompson Creek, is walk-able to downtown shops and restaurants and close to schools/parks. The property also includes plans for garage ADU conversion, while still providing plenty of front parking.


Contact Timo today for a private showing at 707.477.8396


Most Popular Paint Colors for A 2022 Home Refresh

Classic white remains the most popular color choice in kitchens, but homeowners are expected to experiment with wider palettes for the rest of the house, this year.


A white kitchen benefits from the illusion of more space, as with pantries, home offices and laundry rooms, design experts say, although shades of sage, olive and jade are trending as the second most popular choice of kitchen interiors.


Blue is predicted to be the third most popular kitchen color of 2022, including shades of teal, turquoise and light blue.


An unexpected color is making more headway in bedroom design: black, according to the Living Cozy  study that tracked Google searches. 2022 is seeing a rise in popularity in black-painted bedrooms,  including shades of charcoal and dark gray. 


In the bathroom, black colors also reign. In more than 2.2 million worldwide Google searches for  bathroom colors in 2021, black was the clear winner, according to Living Cozy. “Black bathroom  ideas are stylish, modern, and chic, and are taking over the traditional chrome and gold colors  that have dominated bathroom design for years,” the researchers note. “Bathrooms in 2022  incorporate dark black design elements through fixtures, feature walls, and flooring. 


Layering different shades of green is trending in the living room, bringing an essence of nature indoors. 


RED VELVET COOKIES

  • ½ cup unsalted butter at room temp.
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoons red food color 
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract 
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt 
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 4 ounces chocolate chips


Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Cream butter and sugar on  medium speed until light and fluffy, 4 to 5 minutes. Add egg and mix until fully incorporated,  about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.  


Add 1 tablespoon red food coloring (up to 1 1/2 tbsp. for really red cookies) and vanilla extract;  mix on medium speed to combine. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. 


In a small bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to combine. Add to the butter,  sugar, egg mixture and mix on low speed until fully incorporated, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the  buttermilk (or whole milk) and mix on low speed to combine, then scrape down the sides of the bowl. 


Add about 3/4 of the chocolate chips and mix on low speed to combine. Scoop 2 tablespoon-sized  balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 1 1/2 inches between each piece.  Use your palm to flatten the balls slightly.  


Press the remaining chocolate into the surface of each piece of dough. Bake for 12 minutes, until  the cookies appear set on the outside and puffed in the center, rotating the baking sheets halfway  through. Cool completely on baking sheet. 

January 2022 Newsletter

Happy New Year!!!

The Rivetti Team wishes you and your families a wonderful, safe and successful 2022!

California's New Housing Laws

New Year 2022 brings a raft of new laws for Californians.

They’re likely to affect what our neighborhoods look like

and how we take out our trash. California has a critical

housing shortage: The state median home price broke

$800,000 in 2021, and some experts say California needs

about 3 million new homes for the growing population.

For decades, strict zoning laws have allowed developers

to build mostly single-family homes. That’s about to

change. With two new laws, housing construction is going

to look different.


In Senate Bill 9, lawmakers essentially have done away with single family zoning in an effort to deal with the housing shortage, a political goal years in the making. “The new law says the owners of qualifying parcels designated for a stand-alone house may now be able to build two separate houses or a duplex. The exceptions are properties in historic or environmentally sensitive areas, such as flood zones,” explains Timo. “If the lot is big enough, it may potentially be split in two, making room for up to four houses.” Local planning departments are scrambling to

complete an urgency ordinance to ensure that Sonoma County cities are in compliance with the new law. The law is intended to encourage affordable housing and, therefore, prohibits the demolition or alteration of current affordable housing, nor can it displace established renters or rent-controlled units. Under the bill, cities and counties are required to approve such split-lot proposals as long as they

meet size and design standards – effectively removing oversight by city and county planning commissions.


Another new law, Senate Bill 10 now makes it easier for cities to build small apartment buildings near transit, skipping environmental reviews. Supporters are

all for building new housing, whereas critics warn new homes may mostly benefit developers and displace lower income people from their neighborhoods.

Recycling Food Waste

California’s two new recycling laws aim to stop us from throwing food away in our regular garbage and to stop products from carrying the chasing arrow recycling symbol when they aren’t actually recyclable items.


Let’s talk trash. You know those leftovers you’ve been tossing away? As it decays in mass landfill, without oxygen, it creates greenhouse gasses. Under the new law, we now must put all food left overs and organic waste into our organic/green waste bins. That way, cities and counties can turn them into compost and even make energy from them.


Helpful tips when recycling your food scraps.


1. Compost bins/container with lid help keep scraps until 

     taking outside

2. Line your food scraps kitchen container with paper 

    towels, a paper bag or newspaper, which will help keep 

    your container clean ...

3. Or use compostable (not biodegradable) bags with your 

     container...

4. You can also freeze food scraps before emptying into 

     your green cart


What food scraps should and should not be composted at home? 


Food items that should be composted at home:

  • Coffee Grounds
  • Coffee and filters, tea and tea bags
  • Egg shells
  • Flour products like bread, noodles, crackers, etc.
  • Fruit and peels/remnants
  • Grains (cooked or uncooked)
  • Spices
  • Vegetables
  • Pizza Boxes (grease stain/food okay, just remove any plastic items)


Food Items that should NOT be composted at home: 

  • Dairy products
  • Fish 
  • Grease
  • Meat
  • Cooking oil
  • Juice boxes with aluminum foil liners

Competitive Sellers-Market Continues

According to Realtor.com Americans will have a better chance to find a home in 2022, but will face a competitive seller’s market as first-time buyer demand outmatches the inventory recovery.


Additionally, with listing prices, rents and mortgage rates all expected to climb while incomes rise, 2022 will present a mixed bag of housing affordability challenges and opportunities.


"Whether the pandemic delayed plans or created new opportunities to make a move, it’s predicted that Americans are poised for a whirlwind year of home buying in 2022.” says Timo.


"With more sellers expected to enter the market as buyer competition remains fierce, we anticipate strong home sales growth in the Petaluma area.”


Affordability will increasingly continue to be a challenge as interest rates and prices rise, but remote work may expand search areas and enable younger buyers to find their first homes sooner than they might have otherwise. Suburban areas such as Sonoma County are expected to continue to draw new homebuyers into the area  as work-at-home opportunities continue.


Call Timo today at 707.477.8396 to discuss your next move.

CINNAMON ROLL OVERNIGHT OATS

  • 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 1/2 cups unsweetened nondairy milk, such as almond or coconut
  • 8 teaspoons light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt


Stir oats, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and salt together in a large bowl. Divide among five 8-ounce jars. Screw on lids and refrigerate overnight or for up to 5 days. Top with blueberries, Pomegranate seeds, walnuts or almonds.



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