Brendan Coen's Real Estate Blog

Saving Bohemia Ranch

2012-02-01T19:22:00.000-08:00

Enter “Bohemia Ranch” into Google and you'll find a web site offering nearly 900 acres of prime West County forest for sale - suitable for as many as six homes - all for $6 million

Full story at the Press Democrat

Some photos I took at the ranch a few years ago:

2012-01-12T12:03:00.000-08:00

Price just reduced to $269,000!

State court upholds abolishing redevelopment agencies

2011-12-30T09:00:00.001-08:00

Officials in Sonoma County struggled Thursday to gauge the local impact of a state Supreme Court ruling that upheld the state's elimination of redevelopment agencies.

(Full story at the Press Democrat)

Home buying not for faint-hearted

2011-12-11T10:24:00.001-08:00

To purchase her house this fall, Sally Murphy was required to sign twice as many loan documents as she had done for each of her past four homes.

The 66-year-old dietician then watched in horror as the title company took until the final day to meet a bank's deadline for transferring ownership on a four-bedroom house in east Windsor, a short sale.

(Full story at the Press Democrat)

Sonoma County Board of Supervisors set to OK $2.4 million Pryor Ranch conservation deal

2011-11-14T21:28:00.001-08:00

When Ed and Elva Pryor bought a big swath of woodland in the hills southwest of their Healdsburg home in 1946, there were few structures or other signs of civilization on the surrounding landscape.

(Full story at the Press Democrat)

Scaled-down septic tank rules presented in Santa Rosa hearing

2011-11-02T23:26:00.001-07:00

State regulators Wednesday presented a new proposal to govern septic systems that may be polluting California rivers, removing many of the requirements that drew heavy criticism two years ago.

(Full story at the PD)

Congratulations to Boon Eat + Drink

2011-10-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

Picked by the Michelin Guide for its 2012 Bib Gourmand list.

See the full list at the Press Democrat.

State unveils scaled-down septic system rules

2011-10-07T14:37:00.000-07:00

Revised state rules regulating septic tanks would more narrowly target landowners with systems that are failing or are near polluted waterways, lakes, bays or ponds. Full article at PD.

Gearing up at the Bohemian Grove

2011-07-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

San Francisco Giants' boss Bill Neukom and Vaughn Walker, the retired federal judge who threw out Proposition 8, will be among the featured speakers at the Bohemian Grove encampment of rich and powerful men beginning Friday in Monte Rio.

(Full Story at the Press Democrat)

'Phenomenal' start to Russian River salmon restoration project

2011-06-22T13:37:00.000-07:00

Biologists with special water-filled, aerated backpacks trudged up a remote creek in Northwest Sonoma County on Tuesday, carrying their precious cargo of hatchery-raised coho salmon to release into the wild.

Within a couple hours, they had put 4,000 juvenile fish into Devil Creek, part of an ongoing program to re-populate the Russian River with the endangered coho.

(Full story at the Press Democrat in the headline link)

New leader at Russian River Chamber of Commerce

2011-06-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

A Santa Rosa man with experience in marketing and fund-raising for nonprofit agencies has been hired as the executive director of the Russian River Chamber of Commerce.

Wayne Mitchell, 45, who is taking over a post that has been vacant for five years, said he has a life-long fondness for the regon.

“I have been involved with the Russian River my whole life,” Mitchell said. “Although I grew up in Southern California, Venice Beach, my grandparents lived in Healdsburg and I came up here all the time. It is where I took my first hike, it is the first river I swam in.”

(Full story at the PD in the headline link)

Sunny, Spacious, and Private With Acreage

2011-04-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

New listing! 16083 Fern Way, Guerneville. $499,000

Located in the redwoods on a private drive in a very desirable neighborhood. Lots of sun! Spacious, unique home on approximately 1 acre only 5 minutes from downtown Guerneville. Approximately 2165 sq. ft. according to tax records. Includes 1 bed 2.5 bath, plus offices, den and studio space. Large open living room with free standing wood stove. New hardwood and tile floors, and many other recent upgrades. Over 1000 total sq. ft. of outdoor decking, patio with herb and butterfly garden, roof deck and front porch overlooking enclosed garden. Accessible seasonal creek and waterfalls on property.

$1.7 million OK'd for Monte Rio park, Guerneville public restrooms

2011-04-19T22:42:00.000-07:00

Sonoma County supervisors Tuesday approved $1.7 million in redevelopment funds to launch a park project in Monte Rio and build public restrooms at the veterans memorial building in Guerneville.

(Full article in the headline link)

Russian River sewer plant to get $4 million upgrade

2011-04-19T22:39:00.000-07:00

The sewage treatment plant serving part of the Russian River area will be upgraded with a state-of-the-art ultraviolet light treatment system to replace the use of chlorine.

It is being required by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board to eliminate problems from 2008 and 2009 when treated effluent did not meet standards on 21 occasions.

(Full article in the headline link)

Property Taxes Due Monday

2011-04-06T14:42:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year!

(PD article in headline link)

Occidental's spring oddity

2011-04-03T13:01:00.001-07:00

The fanciful and free-spirited transformed Occidental into a wild dreamscape Saturday as the annual Fools Day Parade rolled through town in a happy riot of pedestrian wackiness.

(Full article in the headline link)

Russian River resorts choose new 'brand'

2011-03-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

Russian River resort-area business and community interests are so certain their towns need a new image that they've spent $177,000 in tax money for a new slogan and branding plan.

Henceforth, Guerneville and environs are to be known by the slogan “balanced. by nature,” a tagline accompanied by the words “Russian River” in stylized script and a drawing of two redwood trees.

(Full article in the headline link)

Bohemian Club must try again on timber harvesting plan

2011-03-17T13:36:00.001-07:00

A Sonoma County Superior Court judge has rejected the state's approval of a timber harvesting plan at the Bohemian Club's retreat in Monte Rio, ruling that alternatives were not adequately considered.

(see full story in the headline link)

Home prices decline, rental prices increase in 2010

2011-01-16T11:43:00.000-08:00

2011 - Rental prices across the US increased 11.6% in 2010, growing from a national average of $1181 in January 2010 to $1319 by December. The steady increase in rental prices was inversely matched by falling prices of homes for sale, which saw a 9.8% drop over the same period.

(link to full article in the title)

Reservoirs full, spirits high

2011-01-04T23:06:00.001-08:00

Local reservoirs have more water than they can hold on to, but officials say it's still too early to relax against drought.

(Link to full story in the headline link)

Vacation rental permits approved

2010-11-10T16:02:00.001-08:00

The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors approved Tuesday the final and most disputed piece of a new ordinance that will govern residential-style vacation rentals in the county.

(full story in the headline link)

Foreclosure Crisis' Latest Wrinkle

2010-10-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

First came the unprecedented wave of home foreclosures.

That was followed by government intervention and demands for mortgage modifications. Now, many homeowners in loan trouble appear headed toward phase three of the housing crisis: Litigation.

But serious questions face borrowers and lenders alike over whether the revelations of faulty legal documents and “robo-signers” at banks ultimately will prove a lifesaver for most borrowers who find themselves on track to lose their homes.

(full story in headline link)

'Lawless' crew takes over Guerneville

2010-10-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

Under a canopy of eucalyptus and redwood trees in Guerneville, Nick Eversman and Spencer Treat Clark panted and stumbled their way up a steep hill, handcuffed together and slipping on fallen leaves.

They were on the run from the fictional Cavanaugh family, having accidentally shot a very important Cavanaugh — the Guerneville Mayor.

(Full story in the headline link)

2011 Real Estate Forecast from the California Association of Realtors

2010-10-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

Looks like we may be in for another slow year! At least the forecast is slightly positive rather than slightly negative.

2011 FORECAST FACT SHEET

	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009	2010f	2011f
SFH Resales (000s)	625.0	477.5	346.9	439.8	546.5	492.0	502.0
% Change	0.03%	-23.6%	-27.3%	26.8%	24.3%	-10.0%	2.0%
Median Price ($000s)	$522.7	$556.4	$560.3	$346.4	$275.0	$306.5	$312.5
% Change	16.0%	6.5%	0.7%	-38.2%	-20.6%	11.5%	2.0%
30-Yr FRM	5.9%	6.4%	6.3%	6.0%	5.1%	4.7%	5.1%
1-Yr ARM	4.5%	5.5%	5.6%	5.2%	4.7%	3.9%	4.1%

Sweetwater Springs Water District Considering The Sale of Up to 900 Acres of Surplus Land

2010-08-31T15:42:00.000-07:00

Link goes to PDF report of the public workshop held on July 22.

Hopefully these lands can be transferred with some sort of conservation easement and public use constraints. The next Sweetwater board meeting is this Thursday the 2nd at 6:30 at the Sweetwater office (17081 Highway 116, Guerneville).

New owners revive Occidental's Western Hills nursery

2010-08-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

Western Hills, the world-famous rare-plant nursery and gardens in Occidental that seemed doomed by foreclosure, has been saved by buyers from the East Bay.

(Full story in the headline link)

New owner for Monte Rio bar

2010-07-15T23:04:00.001-07:00

Good to see the Pink getting back on its feet.

Feds force halt to Sonoma County energy loan program

2010-07-07T22:18:00.000-07:00

Sonoma County has suspended an innovative 16-month-old program to help property owners finance solar installations and other energy-saving retrofits after a federal agency announced Tuesday that such programs present a risk to giant government-chartered mortgage lenders.

The decision prevents new applications and freezes 578 pending applications with the county’s Energy Independence Program. It does not affect participants who signed their deals with the county before Tuesday.

(Full story in the headline link)

Bob Burke, resort owner and kids' benefactor, dies at 63

2010-06-16T22:09:00.001-07:00

Bob Burke, a Forestville native and Russian River resort operator whose charity group brought joy into the lives of children suffering from severe medical conditions and disabilities, died of a heart attack at his home Thursday. He was 63.

(Full story in the headline link)

'Forestville Square' gets county approval

2010-06-03T12:12:00.000-07:00

A long-debated development proposal that could remake the face of Forestville has cleared a major hurdle, but remains years away from construction.

The project by Sonoma County developer Orrin Thiessen promises a town square for the unincorporated community west of Santa Rosa. It includes 55 townhome-style residences mixed among 20,000-square-feet of restaurants, shops and office space and an 18-room hotel on eight acres at the western edge of town.

(Full article in the title link)

April 2010 sales and price report

2010-05-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

Statewide sales report via California Association of Realtors.

New plan for opening mouth of Russian River

2010-05-17T21:00:00.001-07:00

Via the Press Democrat:

Changes to decades of management of the Russian River estuary will be the subject of a series of meetings this week in Jenner and Santa Rosa.

Since the early 1990s, the Sonoma County Water Agency has used bulldozers to open up the river's mouth to the ocean in the summer and prevent flooding of low-lying properties near the river's lagoon. Before then, the practice was carried out by the county and by private landowners.

(full story linked in the title)

New Russian River Market Statistics for April

2010-05-01T13:46:00.000-07:00

Only 11 homes sold in the area last month, 2 less than April last year. The median price is still bouncing around $200,000. Inventory is coming up again after it hit a low in January. Follow the title link to see the stats graphs.

2010-04-04T11:35:00.001-07:00

(New!)

Q&A: Emergency Preparedness for Homeowners

HouseLogic talks to Red Cross disaster
response expert Court Ogilvie about
emergency preparedness for homeowners. Read
(New!)

Low-Maintenance Lawn Alternatives:
Turf Grasses

If you want a yard that demands less time, money,
and water, consider low-maintenance grasses in
lieu of the traditional lawn. Read
Tax Tips for Homeowners Looking
Ahead to 2010 Returns

From energy tax credits to vacation home deductions,
check out these tax tips for homeowners looking ahead
to 2010 returns. Read
Claim Your Residential Energy Tax
Credits

Earn a residential energy tax credit and lower your
utility bills at the same time when you improve the
energy efficiency of your home. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

This blog has moved

2010-03-24T16:27:00.001-07:00

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New Listing: Custom Cottage Along Hulbert Creek

2010-03-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

New listing!This 3 bedroom, 3 bath home offers a natural setting along Hulbert Creek. Home has recently had bamboo floors installed both upstairs and down. Comfortable eat-in kitchen. Nice landscaping, sun, and off-street parking. A sun room and additional family room downstairs are some of the custom touches the contractor/owner has made to his long time home.

Sonoma County Happiest Place in California

2010-02-17T12:21:00.001-08:00

A massive study released Monday determined that people in Sonoma County are happier and healthier than anywhere else in California -- and ranked fifth overall in the nation.

The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, based on interviews with more than 353,000 Americans during 2009, asked people to assess their jobs, finances, health habits, mental attitudes and communities.

People in Sonoma County assessed themselves as having especially healthy behavior: meaning they ate healthy, consumed fruits and vegetables every week, exercised weekly and didn't smoke.

Sonoma County Board of Supervisors meetings will be live on Internet

2010-01-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, for the first time, Sonoma County residents will be ableto use the Internet to watch live meetings of the Board of Supervisorsfrom their home or office.

“This will enhance the public's access to their county government,”said board chairwoman Valerie Brown. “This is a smart use of technologythat moves the county closer to being paperless and also complementsour sustainability efforts.”

Anyone with Internet access can visit the website http://supervisors.sonoma-county.org/meetings/ and view the proceedings as well as call up relevant staff reports and board resolutions.

Lake Sonoma drinking water supply hits 100 percent full

2010-01-26T12:25:00.000-08:00

Lake Sonoma has recovered from three years of below averagerainfall, filling up its water supply pool and hitting the flood stageTuesday for the first time in five years.

The lake hit 245,000 acre-feet at about 4 a.m. Abovethat level, the water is into the flood pool and can be releasedthrough Warm Springs Dam into Dry Creek and the Russian River.

State proposes new limits on vineyards using Russian River water

2010-01-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

“This would have a verysignificant impact if something like this were to be approved,”Mendocino County Farm Bureau Executive Director Devon Jones said of theproposal, which was drafted by state Water Resources Control Boardstaffers.

Anenvironmental leader, meanwhile, called the proposal “a mixed bag” interms of its protection for endangered salmon and steelhead.

See the full story here.

New foreclosure alternatives program

2009-12-24T16:09:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Dept. of the Treasury recently announced the Home AffordableForeclosure Alternatives Program (HAFA), which provides instructions forlenders and servicers participating in the Making Home Affordable Program andHome Affordable Modification Program (HAMP). The purpose of HAFA is to createan alternative to foreclosures for homeowners unable to successfully modifytheir troubled mortgage under HAMP.

The HAFA program simplifies and encourages short sales and deeds in lieu offoreclosure by:
. Allowing pre-approved short sale terms before a property is listed;
. Preventing servicers from attempting to reduce real estate commissionsestablished in the listing
agreement as a condition for short sale approval;
. Releasing borrowers from future liability for the debt; and
. Providing financial incentives to borrowers, servicers, andinvestors.

Borrowers not eligible for HAMP must be considered for HAFA within 30 calendardays of the date the borrower does not qualify for a HAMP Trial Period Plan;does not successfully complete a HAMP Trial Period Plan; is delinquent on aHAMP modification by missing at least two consecutive payments; or requests ashort sale or DIL.

HAFA begins April 5, 2010, though servicers may choose to implement it earlier.The Directive from the Treasury only is for non-Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac ownedloans up to $729,750.

More info: http://www.car.org/governmentalaffairs/federal/ustreasuryfap/

Jenner Headlands deal completed

2009-12-19T20:07:00.000-08:00

A consortium of public agencies and private land conservation groupshas completed a $36 million purchase of the Jenner Headlands, asprawling 5,630-acre ranch at the mouth of the Russian River.

Escrow on the complex transaction closed Thursday.

Full story

Same Old Story With Short Sales

2009-11-15T10:30:00.000-08:00

Forrest and Samantha Thomas have been waiting since May to learnwhether their family can move into a four-bedroom home in southwestSanta Rosa.

His parents want to buy the home for the couple, offering $315,000 — adeal the current owner wants to accept, even though it is far less thanthe $550,000 she paid for the two-story house on Langeburg Street offSebastopol Road.

(full story at the Press Democrat in the title link)

Amber Twitchell For RRROC!

2009-11-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

I'm supporting Amber for the Russian River Redevelopment Oversight Committee election on 12/18. I have served with her on the board of directors for River to Coast Children's Services and she is an extremely talented board member who would be an invaluable addition to RRROC. Her leadership and understanding of board operations, funding, and oversight are phenomenal. If you live within the Russian River Redevelopment District, please join me in supporting Amber for the RRROC! Amber's candidate statement follows:

I moved to Guerneville because I believe in the importance of community and I appreciate the diversity the area offers. In the past year, I have had the opportunity to become involved in many local groups, including serving on the Board of Directors for River To Coast Children’s Services and serving on the Board of Directors for Community Housing Opportunities West.
I currently function as The Economic Recovery Director at California Human Development, a nonprofit organization in Santa Rosa that focuses on providing workforce development activities to vulnerable populations. I am certified in collaborative policy making which has taught me to effectively facilitate partnerships and to create sustainable projects.
I believe that we all share the responsibility of mobilizing the community and addressing the needs that exist. I also believe that serving on the RRROC is part of this responsibility.
I appreciate your support.

Congress Passes Approval of Homebuyer Credit

2009-11-05T16:17:00.000-08:00

The bill also extends an $8,000 tax credit for first-time home-buyers until April 30 and expands it to cover more affluent buyers. It also creates a new $6,500 credit for repeat buyers who have been in their current home for at least five years.(Full story from Reuters in the headline)

5 Bedroom, 3 bath home on 1.67 acres in Occidental

2009-10-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

New Listing: Riverfront Pyramid House in Vila Grande

2009-09-24T16:45:00.001-07:00

Despite deficit, Guerneville won't slash fire staffing

2009-09-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

Russian River fire district board members have rescinded last month’s decision to cut staffing this fall.

Instead, the Guerneville-based district voted this week to keep three firefighters on each shift. As a result, the district could go broke in less than two years.

See full story at the Press Democrat linked in the title.

Sonoma County supervisors drop long-studied water plan

2009-09-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

Signaling an historic reversal of a two-decade water policy, Sonoma County supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to withdraw an application to the state for more Russian River water, saying big pipelines no longer make sense because of changing economic and environmental conditions.

See full story at the Press Democrat linked in the title.

Cities Balk at Russian River Water Plan

2009-09-01T11:11:00.000-07:00

Representatives form Sonoma County's major cities balked Monday at endorsing the Water Agency's plans to drop a $1 billion water supply project, but they stopped short of opposing the historic shift in water policy.

See the full article linked in the title.

Sonoma County could drop big water project

2009-08-26T16:45:00.000-07:00

In a major reversal of government water policy that could potentially restrict future growth in Sonoma County, the county Water Agency is abandoning efforts to secure state approval for drawing more water out of the Russian River.

See the full story at pressdemocrat.com linked in the storyline.

Taking Back The Villa Grande Beach

2009-08-22T15:54:00.000-07:00

Residents, Open Space District team up to buy riverfront parcel plagued by parties, transients

See Press Democrat article link in title. Sounds like a great idea. Hopefully the implementation will works as well as they plan.

4th of July Fireworks BBQ in Guerneville

2009-07-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

Join us for the Russian River Rotary Club's 4th of July BBQ. Tickets will be on sale at the gate from 1 pm to 7 pm on Saturday. We will be serving chicken and ribs, beer and wine. Live music. After dark you'll have a great view of the annual fireworks display put on by the Chamber of Commerce. We will be at the Oddfellows Hall on First Street in downtown Guerneville.

View larger map

Future of Russian River area redevelopment becomes clearer

2009-06-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

Pathways along the Russian River for pedestrians and cyclists. A bigger plaza in Guerneville. A theater. A community center. And a social services center. Reliable wireless service from Guerneville to Monte Rio. More plants and trees. Clean public restrooms. A drop-in center for the homeless. A teen center. And, of course a skateboard park.

The list of redevelopment projects that could revive Russian River communities with an infusion of about $8 million a year could go on and on. And it does, because the strategic plan approved by Sonoma County supervisors is 91 items long.

(read more at the Press Democrat article linked in the title)

Is Sonoma County's real estate market stabilizing?

2009-06-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

Home sales remained strong in May and supplies continued to shrink, signs that Sonoma County’s housing market could be starting to stabilize, according to a new report.

But a new wave of foreclosures is looming on the horizon and one analyst warned that prices are not expected to hit bottom until the end of the year, at the earliest.

The region’s 412 homes sold in May was the highest for the month in four years, according to The Press Democrat real estate report prepared by Rick Laws with Coldwell Banker in Santa Rosa.

(see the full story at the title link)

One fourth of sellers reduce asking price

2009-06-08T12:17:00.000-07:00

From Inman.com:

Sellers dropped their asking price on nearly one in four homes listed for sale on Trulia.com during the last year by an average of 10.6 percent, the company said today in a report identifying the markets experiencing the most and biggest price reductions.

Although Trulia's analysis did not include foreclosure properties, it showed that asking prices are being slashed more severely in areas hardest hit by foreclosures.

Price reductions averaged 23 percent in Detroit, 16 percent in Las Vegas, 15 percent in Miami, and 13 percent in Phoenix and Mesa, Ariz., Trulia said.

But luxury markets like New York City also saw price reductions exceeding the national average. Homes with a selling price above $2 million were reduced by 14.3 percent on average, compared with 9.7 percent for homes under $2 million.

While 23.6 percent of homes listed for sale nationwide on Trulia between June 1, 2008 and June 1, 2009, saw at least one price reduction, the percentage was considerably higher in some markets. Among the 50 largest U.S. cities by population, the 12 with the greatest percentage of listings with price reductions were scattered around the nation, Trulia said. They were:

* Jacksonville, Fla. – 36 percent
* Tucson, Ariz. – 32 percent
* Boston, Mass. – 32 percent
* Los Angeles, Calif. – 32 percent
* Columbus, Ohio – 31 percent
* Dallas, Texas – 31 percent
* Honolulu, Hawaii – 31 percent
* Minneapolis, Minn. – 31 percent
* Austin, Texas – 30 percent
* Washington, D.C. – 30 percent
* Baltimore, Md. – 30 percent
* Las Vegas, Nev. – 30 percent

New round of energy rebates offered

2009-05-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Sonoma County Water Agency is offering rebates of up to $150 for homeowners in 6 county sanitation districts (including Russian River and Occidental) who purchase high efficiency clothes washers or toilets. The rebates are offered on a first come first serve basis until June 30, 2010.

See more information at the Sonoma County Water Agency Website.

River to Coast Children's Services Needs Your Support!

2009-04-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

Help support River to Coast Children's Services by donating to our fundraiser walk in the Human Race on May 9th. I'll be there walking with others from RCCS and would appreciate whatever level of sponsorship you can manage.

Help RCCS bring unique family programs to west Sonoma County: Kindergym, Family Counseling, Emergency Resources, Car Safety Seat, Parent Education, Provider Workshops and MORE...

To learn more about RCCS visit us at http://www.rccservices.org/

Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support The Volunteer Center of Sonoma County.

Mortgage defaults rise but homeowners stay put - Los Angeles Times

2009-04-24T10:38:00.001-07:00

Mortgage defaults rise but homeowners stay put - Los Angeles Times

Posted using ShareThis

Country Setting at Its Best

2009-04-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

Charming custom remodel has much to offer! 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, plus detached 2 car garage. Hardwood floors, ceramic tile, crown molding, recessed lighting, ceiling fans. Granite countertops in kitchen. Central heating and on demand water heater. Laundry/ utility room. Extra large, level parcel with fruit trees, lots of sun and plenty of room for a great garden. Call today for your private showing of this beautiful home. Offered at $649,000

Energy loan program to debut in Sonoma County

2009-03-05T21:21:00.000-08:00

In the coming weeks Sonoma County will unveil the details of the new plan to allow homeowners to borrow funds to upgrade their residences to be more energy efficient. The homeowner can then repay the loan over a number of years as an added assessment to his or her property tax.

The final details are not worked out yet, but it looks like a very ambitious program.

See linked Press Democrat article for more information.

Russian River Crab Feed 2009 Photos

2009-02-25T13:18:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all those who attended and supported Russian River Rotary's 2009 Crab Feed! We had a great time and raised money for scholarships for local students as well as our other local projects!

New Loan Modification Program

2009-02-19T10:19:00.000-08:00

Article from the Wall Street Journal.

AB 885 Public Meeting Cancelled Due to Huge Turnout!

2009-01-28T16:25:00.001-08:00

See linked Press Democrat Article about the turnout of approximately 500 people.

Here's a short video I took as it was announced the meeting had to be canceled due to safety hazards from overcrowding. The audio isn't that good, but you can get the mood of the crowd!

AB 885 Public Meetings

2009-01-25T14:35:00.000-08:00

NorBAR “RED ALERT”

AB 885- PROPOSED SEPTIC SYSTEM REGULATIONS

IMPORTANT- UPCOMING MEETINGS REALTORS® SHOULD ATTEND!

These draft regulations will impact homeowners and those REALTORS® that sell country property.

Assembly Bill 885 is a proposed, statewide regulation for onsite wastewater treatment systems (septic systems). C.A.R. is concerned that, if enacted, these regulations will make it too burdensome to own a property with a septic system. AB 885 also includes a point-of-sale requirement to transfer technical documents.

The State Water Resources Control Board is holding public workshops around the state to allow comment on the latest version of draft statewide septic regulations. There are a number of meetings that the REALTOR® community should attend, these meetings are outlined below.

Please pass this information on to ANYONE who might be interested or impacted.

THE ASK...

WE NEED YOUR BODIES AT THE FOLLOWING WORKSHOPS:

State Water Resources Control Board Workshop Hearing – January 27, 2009. Location: Wells Fargo Center for the Arts – Merlot Theater, 50 Mark West Springs Rd., Santa Rosa. Time: 7 p.m.

MORE INFORMATION

Link to Regulations and EIR: http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/septic_tanks/

Link to the C.A.R. "RED ALERT" & comment letter: http://norbarrealtor.com/upldocs/Newsletter/AB885EmailBlast1-8-09.pdf

Russian River Crab Feed on February 14th

2009-01-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

There are still a few tickets left. Contact me if you would like to reserve some.

New Listing Along Hulbert Creek

2009-01-14T15:43:00.000-08:00

Stunning creek-side setting! Enjoy the babbling creek from your large private patio with hot tub. Brick fireplace and wood floors. What a cozy getaway from busy life! Privacy fencing, new storage shed, and a new water heater are some of the latest additions. Two bedrooms and one bath. Home is approximately 840 square feet and the lot is approximately 7013 square feet. Offered at $329,000.

Creekside Chalet On A Double Lot

2008-12-18T13:31:00.000-08:00

Waldeslust! Custom built three bedroom, three bath home plus office on a level double parcel along Hulbert creek. This spacious Chalet style home is approximately 2630 square feet. Good sun, with views of natural surroundings to appreciate. Formal dining room. Attached two car garage and off street parking. Gas burning stove and central heat. Large attic. Well kept garden with outbuildings. A must see! Offered at $599,000

Home sales at 3-year high in county

2008-12-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of the Press Democrat.

2 Homes on 1.51 Acres in Cazadero Plus a Creekside Lot

2008-12-17T14:42:00.000-08:00

Two homes on approximately 1.51 acres. Another creek side parcel included! Home along Cazadero Highway is two bedrooms and one bath with lots of parking. Great views of Austin Creek and surrounding woods. Another private cabin is located above along Sunrise Mountain Road. Offered at $570,000

This property is being sold by order of a court. The court has set the price but the owners are able to negotiate on any offers that come in. So don't be afraid to make an offer!

2 bedroom/1 bath home photos:

1 bedroom cabin photos:

Foreclosure Timeline

2008-12-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of C.A.R. Legal:

FORECLOSURE TIMELINE FOR OWNER-OCCUPIED REAL PROPERTY LOANS (made from 2003 to 2007)
The approximate minimum time frames for the non-judicial foreclosure of owner‑occupied real property loans made from 2003 to 2007 are as set forth below. In California, most lenders elect to foreclose non-judicially by conducting trustees' sales, not by judicial foreclosure.

Pre-Foreclosure Period

A lender may initiate the foreclosure process when a borrower defaults on a loan, such as by missing a mortgage payment. However, a slight delay may not justify acceleration and foreclosure by the lender. Hence, in practice, lenders generally wait a few months after a missed payment before starting the foreclosure process.

Day 1: Lender Contacts Borrower

For owner-occupied loans from 2003 to 2007, a lender initiating the foreclosure process must generally contact the borrower by phone or in person to assess the borrower’s financial situation and explore options for avoiding foreclosure. During the conversation, the lender must inform the borrower of the right to meet with the lender within 14 days. The lender must also give the borrower the toll-free number for finding a HUD-certified housing counseling agency.

Day 31: Filing of Notice of Default

For owner-occupied loans from 2003 to 2007, the lender may file a notice of default 30 days after contacting the borrower to explore options for avoiding foreclosure. The notice of default must be filed in the county where the property is located and a copy must be mailed within 10 business days after recordation to the borrower and all other persons who have requested such notice. The notice of default informs the borrower of the default. It must also include the lender's declaration that it has contacted the borrower to explore options for avoiding foreclosure, tried with due diligence to contact the borrower, or the borrower has surrendered the property.

Day 121: Filing of Notice of Trustee’s Sale

Three months after the filing of the notice of default, the lender may record a notice of trustee’s sale setting forth the date, time, and place of the upcoming trustee’s sale. Because of the gravity of a notice of trustee’s sale, it must be widely disseminated. The notice of trustee’s sale must be recorded, posted, mailed to the borrower and others, as well as published once a week for three consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation.

Day 145: Deadline to Cure Default

Up to five business days before the trustee’s sale, the borrower may reinstate the loan by curing the default or paying the missed payments plus allowable costs. After the reinstatement period expires, the borrower still has the right to redeem the property by paying the entire debt, plus interest and costs (not just the arrearage), before the bidding begins at the trustee’s sale.

Day 152: Trustee’s Sale

Although California law allows a trustee’s sale to take place 20 days after the posting of the notice of trustee’s sale, lenders customarily wait at least 31 days instead to help protect against federal tax liens. At the trustee’s sale, the property is sold through a public auction to the highest bidder. Title is transferred to the successful bidder by trustee’s deed.

USING THIS FORECLOSURE TIMELINE

A foreclosure timeline helps you as a listing agent ascertain whether you have enough time to market and sell the property as a short sale. Depending on the stage of foreclosure the homeowner is in (“Foreclosure Stage”), the chart below gives you the total time frame you have, at a minimum, to sell a property as a short sale before the trustee’s sale occurs (“Minimum Time Left to Sell”).

Foreclosure Stage	Minimum Time Left to Sell
Homeowner just missed making mortgage payment for the first time.	About 6 to 8 months total
Homeowner has just been contacted by the lender to explore options for avoiding foreclosure.	About 5 months total
Notice of default has just been filed.	About 4 months total
Notice of trustee’s sale has just been filed.	Date of trustee’s sale is on notice of sale

As an example, if a notice of default has just been filed, you have a minimum of about four months to sell the property before the trustee’s sale may occur. That’s four months not only to find a buyer, but also to get the lender to approve the short sale and close escrow. The short sale lender may agree to postpone the trustee’s sale in some situations (such as when there’s an accepted offer), but be sure to get any agreement for a postponement in writing.

FORECLOSURE TIMELINE FOR OTHER TYPES OF LOANS

For loans that are not secured by owner-occupied real property or not made from 2003 to 2007, lenders are not required to contact the borrowers to explore options for avoiding foreclosure. For these loans, the total minimum time for the foreclosure process is roughly only 122 days, not 152 days. If the lender is not required to contact the borrower, the foreclosure process takes a minimum of about 4 months from the filing of the notice of default to the day of the trustee’s sale.

"Junk Your Jalopy" Program

2008-11-25T15:06:00.000-08:00

Do you have an inoperable vehicle on your property that you’ve been trying to get rid of but can’t because you lost the paperwork? We can help! Owners and occupants of property specifically located within the unincorporated areas of Sonoma County can now have unwanted junk vehicles towed away for free and without the usual DMV paperwork.

For information and scheduling contact: Dale Hawley at 565-2153.
1. Only available to residents located within the unincorporated areas of Sonoma County.
2. A document must be signed granting permission to the County to have the vehicle(s) towed with the understanding that the vehicle will be dismantled.
3. Applies to passenger cars, pickups, sport utility vehicles, vans, and small trailers. Free towing not available to RV or vehicle storage yards.

This is a voluntary program. Call us and we will take care of all the details. In return you will be helping your community by creating a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful neighborhood to live in. To file a complaint about abandoned vehicles:

On public streets or highways - Contact the California Highway Patrol at 588-1400
On private property in unincorporated Sonoma County - Contact Code Enforcement at 565-3717
For abandoned vehicles located within the Town of Windsor or within any city limits contact the applicable City Police Department.

See PDF flyer at: http://www.sonoma-county.org/prmd/docs/misc/abandon_vehicle.pdf

Foreclosure Filings Up 25% Over Last Year

2008-11-19T21:32:00.001-08:00

Foreclosure filings -- default notices, auction sale notices and bank repossessions -- were reported on 279,561 U.S. properties in October, a 5 percent increase compared with the previous month and a 25 percent increase compared with October 2007, according to recent report from RealtyTrac®. One in every 452 U.S. housing units received a foreclosure filing in October, according to the report.

"We've seen sharp declines in new foreclosure filings after legislation mandating delays to the foreclosure process was signed into law in several states -- most notably in California, where overall foreclosure activity was down by double-digit percentage points for the second straight month in October, and where default filings were 44 percent below October 2007 levels," said James J. Saccacio, chief executive officer of RealtyTrac. "Despite this, October marks the 34th consecutive month where U.S. foreclosure activity has increased compared to the prior year."

California foreclosure activity in October decreased 18 percent from the previous month, but the state still posted the highest number of properties with foreclosure filings for the month -- 56,954. That total was down from a peak of more than 100,000 in August, but represented a 13 percent increase compared with October 2007.

Sales Stats In The River Area

2008-11-17T14:25:00.000-08:00

Median sales price in Monte Rio, CA went down 26.07% to $216,250 from prior quarter
Median sales price in Guerneville, CA went down 2.89% to $291,327 from prior quarter
Median sales price in Forestville, CA went down 14.99% to $283,500 from prior quarter

Stats from Trulia.com

Legal Article On Foreclosure Related Scams

2008-10-31T17:01:00.000-07:00

C.A.R.'s Legal Department has published a new legal article for REALTORS® entitled Foreclosure Scams and the Foreclosure Consultant Law. With the high number of foreclosures lately, foreclosure-related scams have exploded onto the real estate scene. Many scams are aimed at homeowners in foreclosure, but other scams target real estate agents, investors, buyers, tenants, and other people involved in the foreclosure process.

This new legal article addresses the legal and practical issues surrounding foreclosure-related scams. It also provides comprehensive guidelines on California's foreclosure consultant law. Some of the highlights of the new legal article include the following:

- Red flags for detecting foreclosure-related scams;
- Real-life examples of foreclosure-related scams;
- Requirements under California's foreclosure consultant law;
- Applicability of the foreclosure consultant law to REALTORS®;
- Restrictions on collecting advance fees;
- Licensing requirements for representatives of foreclosure consultants; and
- Recent 2008 revisions to the foreclosure consultant law.

Click post title for PDF link to the article.

Fed Cuts Key Interest Rate To 1 Percent

2008-10-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

The Federal Reserve continued to shave points off the federal funds rate, reducing it by 50 basis points to 1 percent today, the lowest rate in half a century. Analysts characterized the move as another effort to stave off a prolonged downturn in the nation's economy.

"The pace of economic activity appears to have slowed markedly, owing importantly to a decline in consumer expenditures," the Fed said in a prepared statement. "Business equipment spending and industrial production have weakened in recent months, and slowing economic activity in many foreign economies is damping the prospects for U.S. exports. Moreover, the intensification of financial market turmoil is likely to exert additional restraint on spending, partly by further reducing the ability of households and businesses to obtain credit.

"In light of the declines in the prices of energy and other commodities and the weaker prospects for economic activity, the Committee expects inflation to moderate in coming quarters to levels consistent with price stability.

"Recent policy actions, including today's rate reduction, coordinated interest rate cuts by central banks, extraordinary liquidity measures, and official steps to strengthen financial systems, should help over time to improve credit conditions and promote a return to moderate economic growth," the Fed said. "Nevertheless, downside risks to growth remain. The Committee will monitor economic and financial developments carefully and will act as needed to promote sustainable economic growth and price stability."

C.A.R. FORECAST CALLS FOR PRICES TO LEVEL OUT AND SALES TO RISE IN 2009

2008-10-17T22:46:00.001-07:00

Home prices throughout most areas of California will post declines next year, while sales of existing homes will continue to rise in 2009, according to C.A.R.'s "2009 California Housing Market Forecast," released today during CALIFORNIA REALTOR® EXPO 2008 (www.realtorexpo.org), running through Thursday, Oct. 16 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach.

"The current uncertainty about the financial system and economy is likely to persist over the next several weeks, and could extend into next year," said C.A.R. President William E. Brown. "Our forecast assumes that the financial system will begin to show signs of stabilization late in 2008 and into early 2009."

The median home price in California will decline 6 percent to $358,000 in 2009 compared with a projected median of $381,000 this year, according to the forecast. Sales for 2009 are projected to increase 12.5 percent to 445,000 units, compared with 395,600 units (projected) in 2008.

"Sales in 2008 will be ahead of last year by 12 percent, with a further increase of 12.5 percent expected in 2009," said C.A.R. Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young. "However, the next couple of quarters in late 2008 and early 2009 will be marked by seasonal decreases in activity, with a pickup expected by the second quarter of next year."

Price Reduction

2008-10-13T15:16:00.000-07:00

This 9,543 sq. ft. lot in the Hollydale area of Forestville has just been reduced to $99,900 from the previous $129,900. There is a two bedroom septic permit already issued by the County. Bring your plans and get to work!

Modern Log Home on 8 Acres

2008-09-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

Large custom home on approximately 8 acres. Constructed in 1993, this three bedroom, two bath home has an open design great for entertaining. Spacious living room with large windows and attached deck. Spa with access from master bedroom. Attached garage. Two additional unfinished units on the property as well. Terraced gardens. This is a probate sale and offers are subject to court confirmation. $629,000.

17315 Park Avenue

2008-08-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

New Listing at 17315 Park Avenue, Guerneville

2008-08-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

This quiet retreat features 3 bedroom and 1.5 baths. Spacious kitchen with dining area. Large deck with serene views of the redwoods. Detached garage/storage area. Home is approximately 1120 square feet, lot is 5619 square feet according to tax records. A great deal at $292,500. The dog is negotiable.

13783 Guerne Hill Road

2008-08-07T14:41:00.001-07:00

Modern Log Style Home

2008-08-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

This country 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath log style home is a great opportunity! New upgrades throughout, including new carpet, wood flooring, and granite countertops. Nice floor plan with separation of living and bedroom space and room for an office area. Fireplace in living room and storage in attic. Property has a great combination of sun & trees. There is a very private feel from both inside of the house and the front deck, where you can sit and enjoy the hot tub. Nice location- walking distance to downtown Guerneville. Good off-street parking.

Priced to sell at $399,900.

Market Snapshot For Your Neighborhood

2008-07-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

Here's an interesting tool that will give you up-to-date information about the current market in your neighborhood.

Thanks For The Support At The BBQ!

2008-07-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your support on Sunday the 6th! Russian River Rotary turned out on a beautiful day and served over 500 meals. We had a great time and raised a lot of money; 100% of which will go back into the community to support our local projects. Learn more about our club here.

Russian River Rotary Fireworks BBQ

2008-06-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Email me for details!

Two Homes on Nearly 5 Acres In Western Sebastopol

2008-06-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

Ideal for extended family, shared estate, or extra income. Beautiful park-like grounds with mature rhododendrons, Japanese maples, stately oaks. Acreage ranges from sun-drenched open meadow to redwood glens and shaded creeks.

Homes are each privately situated with separate driveways. One is spacious with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, beamed-ceilings, extensive windows, and flexible floor plan. The other home has 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths and recently was meticulously renovated throughout.

See more photos and a virtual tour at our website.

New Riverfront Home Available

2008-02-24T12:57:00.001-08:00

Details available at our website

Where The Russian River Floods

2008-02-24T12:34:00.001-08:00

On rainy days like this, the following postcard comes out of my top drawer. Send me an email if you would like a copy of this card sent to you. It's nice to have on the refrigerator when you need it.

Some Market Statistics For The Russian River Area

2008-02-20T20:46:00.001-08:00

Here are some interesting statistics for the Russian River area over the past few years. Over the past year home prices have declined about 7% in our area. Values have declined about 6% overall in Sonoma County to a median price of $525,000. The Russian River area is still the most affordable area in Sonoma County.

	Russian River
YEAR	UNITS SOLD	AVERAGE SALES PRICE
2007	210	$421,064
2006	238	$452,920
2005	349	$468,725
2004	357	$369,194
2003	318	$338,806
2002	337	$306,921
2001	250	$262,408
2000	356	$221,555
1999	398	$173,457
YEAR	AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET	MEDIAN SALES PRICE
2007	109	$382,250
2006	91	$410,000
2005	68	$405,000
2004	71	$340,000
2003	80	$308,000
2002	91	$270,000
2001	84	$229,994
2000	63	$189,000
1999	N/A	$153,500

Statistics from BAREIS MLS^® January 10, 2008. Information herein believed reliable but not guaranteed.